Dear Readers,
What do the opening of a Jewish school in New York, an evening honoring the
memory of an outstanding musician, the creative achievements of members of our
community, and the story of a woman who fulfilled her American dream have in
common? At first glance, nothing. Yet it is precisely these events, personal
journeys, and accomplishments that make up the rich and diverse life of our
community. Each of these individuals contributes in their own way to preserving
our heritage, enriching our culture, educating the younger generation, and
strengthening the bonds between people.
In this issue of Ladies’ World, we have brought together many
interesting stories, and I would like to highlight a few of them.
Let me begin with a joyful occasion — the opening of the new building of
Ganeinu Academy, a Jewish school in Queens. Our literary editor, Rena
Elizarova, attended the opening ceremony and shared her impressions. This
modern school, with its excellent facilities for children's education and
development, is the result of years of dedication by people who have devoted
themselves to Jewish education. Special gratitude goes to Levi and Olga Leviev,
whose efforts help younger generations remain connected to their roots and
traditions.
Understanding our roots is inseparable from preserving our cultural memory.
The Third Malaev Readings, dedicated to the 90th anniversary of the birth of
the outstanding poet, musician, and composer Ilyas Malaev, also reflect this
important theme. His creative legacy lives on in people's hearts, while
gatherings like these help pass the priceless spiritual and cultural heritage
of our people on to future generations.
It is heartening to see our musical and literary traditions continue to
flourish. We warmly congratulate the remarkable singer, composer, and musician
Avrom Tolmasov on his 70th birthday. His extraordinary talent is recognized far
beyond our community. From Israel comes a story about a jubilee celebration
honoring poet and singer Polina Haimova, author of the book Dream of My
Heart. It is especially meaningful that her poetry and songs carry forward
the tradition of creative expression in the Bukharian Jewish language.
I am also delighted to recognize the achievements of three talented women
whose lives are connected to my hometown of Dushanbe: Malika Kalontarova,
Tamara Kataeva, and Mira Aronbaeva. Each has followed a remarkable artistic
path, earned the love of audiences, and made — and continues to make — a
valuable contribution to the arts. My heartfelt congratulations to these
wonderful women from my hometown!
A special place in this issue belongs to our cover story featuring Larisa
Normatova-Fleysher (p. 12). The daughter of Nina and Alik Normatov, well-known
philanthropists in our community, Larisa has fulfilled her American dream:
earning professional recognition in medicine, building a happy family, and
preserving the values instilled in her by her parents.
I was particularly moved by an episode in her life that resonates with the
approaching Thanksgiving holiday. Larisa's daughter was born prematurely and
spent a difficult period in the neonatal intensive care unit. It was just in
time for Thanksgiving that her parents were finally able to bring their baby
girl home. Ever since, this holiday has held a special meaning for their
family. How important it is to pause sometimes and recognize what a blessing it
is to have our loved ones healthy, to share love, and simply to be together!
Since its founding, our magazine has remained outside politics. Today,
however, we are making an exception, as our country approaches elections that
may prove to be historic. I am pleased to see that our community is actively
engaged in civic and political life. On page 23, we feature Rafael Nektalov and
Rabbi Naum Kaziev, who received certificates of recognition from the Kew Forest
Republican Club for openly expressing their political views. With the November
3 elections approaching, I want to emphasize the importance of civic
responsibility. Like them, I support the Republican Party and encourage you to
vote for it. At the same time, I respect everyone's right to their own beliefs.
And yet, what truly unites us, regardless of our views, is compassion,
kindness, and the joy of being together. This is exactly the atmosphere we
strive to create during the trips organized by Ladies’ World on Wheels.
Recently, our travelers enjoyed another exciting adventure — three amazing
worlds in a single day (p. 27). And another journey lies ahead, this time to
visit us in sunny California! Be sure to read the announcement on page 5. I
eagerly look forward to welcoming you to our part of the country!
As we conclude our journey through the pages of this issue, my thoughts
return once again to Thanksgiving. May this wonderful holiday remind each of us
how many reasons we have to be grateful — to our families, our friends, and
everyone who makes our world a kinder place.
Happy Thanksgiving, dear readers!
Dr. Zoya Maksumova
Editor-in-Chief
(November 2026, Ladies’ World, Issue No. 305)
