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Larissa Gonchar Principal of Community Outreach Academy
SACRAMENTO, DALY CITY, AND THE SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA
Dr. Leonard Newman is a laser vision correction surgeon who holds degrees from both Georgetown University Medical School and the Yale University School of Medicine. Dr. Newman has performed over 85,000 corrective eye surgery procedures, ranking as one of the most experienced vision correction surgeons in our region.
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Watt Ave., Ste A-110 Sacramento, CA 958 2 1
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America was discovered by heroes—brave, intelligent, fortunate, adventurous, talented, and confident. Centuries later, people of the same caliber continue to build modern America, proving to the world that the American Dream is indeed a reality. Today, these individuals remain confident, talented, and courageous, but they are also more humane, compassionate, and educated. They think of others, lead by example, help, and create. They are behind new companies, new initiatives, new projects, and a new America.
This issue of New Times Magazine is dedicated to these New People who are shaping the New American landscape. Every hero featured in this edition deserves to be recognized not only
A A NEW HEROES
in our magazine but also in books. Their stories are as unique as their actions and their businesses.
America is incredibly diverse, and so are the businesses and industries in which success can be achieved. For many years, RAM has been showcasing and telling the stories of precisely such people—successful, confident, and talented individuals. Join us, be inspired by the examples on the pages of this edition, and become one of those who write the history of America alongside us.
SERGEY IVANNIKOV
THE OF AMERICA
HEROES
Publisher New Times Magazine
WWW.NEWTIMESMAGAZINE.COM
PUBLISHERS
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Sergey Ivannikov (916) 519-6461
Alisa Yurchenko (916) 909-8009
Tatyana Shaginyan (628) 278-1019
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Mila Karpekina (916) 944-9609
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Mona Ghaffarian (916) 532-1562
San Francisco / Bay Area, California (415) 914-1555
ADVERTISING Sacramento, California (916) 299-1777
ADVERTISING Los Angeles, California (213) 426-1777
ADVERTISING (916) 586-0224
Miami, Florida
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS
WEBMASTER
Oleg Ivannikov Egor Volfovich
Vlad Kotserubov
PROOFREADER Debbie Cunningham
PHOTOGRAPHERS
DISTRIBUTION MANAGER
ATTORNEY AT LAW
Nataliya Iaroshyk
Katerina McTeer Mike Gold
Svetlana Gold
Konstantin Kodincev Tia Gemmell
Daniil Dyakov
David Henderson, Esq.
by Alisa Yurchenko
ALINA MUKHOPADHYAY:
How One Woman Changed the Lives of Thousands Lighting the Way
Imagine this: you’re just 12 years old, and you suddenly find yourself in a foreign country, leaving behind everything that was dear to you. Friends, your home, familiar streets—everything is in the past. Scary? Absolutely. But this is how Alina’s journey began. Today, countless immigrants around the world experience similar stories, confronting the unknown and the fear of what the future holds.
Do you ever feel like the world around you is descending into chaos?
For many, this is not just a feeling—it’s the reality they face every day. Yet, even in the toughest times, there are those who become beacons of hope for others. Meet Alina Mukhopadhyay, a woman who turned her own trials into a source of inspiration for thousands of people.
We
believe that together we can make the world a better place “
FROM HARDSHIP TO TRIUMPH
Alina did not let fear and uncertainty break her. “We came with nothing but a dream in our hearts,” she recalls. The first few years were full of challenges: learning a new language, adapting to an unfamiliar culture, and finding her place in a new society. But every hardship only strengthened her determination to succeed and help others.
After years of overcoming many obstacles, Alina decided she couldn’t stand by, knowing the difficulties faced by new arrivals. She joined MISI Community Solutions as CEO, with the mission of making the path easier for those seeking a new life in America.
MORE THAN JUST AN ORGANIZATION
At first glance, MISI Community Solutions may seem like a typical community service provider. But for those who turn to them, it’s a true lifeline in a sea of uncertainty. Alina’s team offers a wide range of services: from helping people find housing to navigating the complex healthcare system, from document processing to employment assistance.
Every success story is an inspiration. One woman arrived from Russia with two children, having lost everything. MISI not only helped her obtain insurance but also paid $4,800 for housing, giving her family stability. “We also helped her enroll her kids in school. Today, she’s already paying off a loan on her first car,” Alina proudly shares. Stories like these are living proof of how genuine support can change lives for the better.
MULTILINGUAL SUPPORT FOR IMMIGRANTS
Language barriers often become one of the biggest hurdles for those arriving in a new country. MISI Community Solutions understands this better than anyone. By offering support in multiple languages— English, Russian, Ukrainian, Armenian, Farsi, Spanish, and Hindi—they ensure that every voice is heard. This is not just translation; it’s a bridge between cultures, helping people feel understood and accepted.
Imagine a person who has just arrived in a country where everything is unfamiliar and confusing. Hearing their native language in such a situation is like a breath of fresh air. “We want everyone who reaches out to us to feel at home,” Alina explains. This philosophy underpins the work of MISI Community Solutions and makes them unique.
RECOGNITION AND LEADERSHIP IN CALIFORNIA
The hard work and dedication of the MISI Community Solutions team have not gone unnoticed. Today, the organization ranks first in the number of people they’ve helped in California. Recently, they received a prestigious award for their contributions to supporting
immigrants. This recognition highlights the importance of their work and the profound impact they have on the lives of thousands.
“Receiving such recognition is a great honor for us,” says Alina. “But what matters most to us are the smiles and gratitude from those we’ve helped. That’s what really counts.”
CROSSING BOUNDARIES AND EXPANDING HORIZONS
Alina is not stopping at what has been achieved. With plans to open new offices across California, MISI Community Solutions aims to extend a helping hand to even more people. “Each new office is a chance to change someone’s life,” she shares. The organization is actively recruiting volunteers and partners to expand the range of services they offer and to reach new communities.
“We believe that together we can make the world a better place,” says Alina. And it seems they’re succeeding. With each passing day, more and more people are joining their mission.
PERSONAL EXPERIENCE AS A SOURCE OF STRENGTH
Alina’s journey is a vivid example of how personal trials can become a source of strength and compassion. She has turned her own hardships into a driving force, helping others overcome their own. “Every person we help reminds me of why we started this work,” says Alina. Her story inspires and shows that even one person can change the world around them.
Co-Founders of MISI Community Solutions: Alina Mukhopadhyay and Yelena Obutkova
STORIES THAT INSPIRE
MISI Community Solutions is not just an organization; it is a community of people whose lives have been changed for the better. Success stories abound: a family from Afghanistan who found a safe refuge; a young professional from India who landed his dream job; an elderly man from Ukraine who received help navigating medical services. Each story is a testament to the power of kindness and support.
“We often hear, ‘You’ve given us hope,’” Alina shares. “And that’s the greatest reward for us.”
A FUTURE FULL OF HOPE
Looking ahead, Alina is filled with enthusiasm and optimism. She believes that with the right support, anyone can build the life they dream of. “We’re just getting started,” she smiles. MISI Community Solutions continues to grow, attracting more and more likeminded people and volunteers eager to contribute.
The organization plans to expand its programs, including educational projects, job skills training, and psychological support for those who have experienced trauma. “We want to be a support system in every aspect of our clients’ lives,” Alina explains.
THE POWER OF UNITY AND COMPASSION
Alina Mukhopadhyay’s story is more than just the tale of one person. It is a reminder that in a world full of challenges, compassion and unity can work wonders. Each of us can become a ray of light for those who have lost hope. And perhaps stories like these will inspire us to our own acts of kindness, big or small.
Hafiz Mohammadi serves as the Media Strategy Director, leading our creative efforts and marketing strategies to connect with diverse communities across California. His work ensures that eligible families in need can access our services promptly. Additionally, Hafiz plays a key role in enhancing both overall branding and personal branding, which are vital in today’s fast-evolving landscape.
Team members of MISI Community Solutions showcase the organization’s commitment to diversity, delivering essential services to clients in their native languages, ensuring no one is left without support.
Hafiz Mohammadi with MISI Co-Founder & CEO Alina Mukhopadhyay
Strategic partnership between Russian American Media, MISI, and American Furniture Galleries will benefit more than 500 newly arrived immigrants from Russia, Ukraine, Afghanistan, Iran, Hmong, and other communities over the next three months by providing essential mattresses, furniture, and urgent household items.
MISI proudly participated as a sponsor at the 15th Annual Multicultural Business and Career Expo, produced by Russian American Media. Their dedicated team provided attendees with valuable insights into state programs, including CalAIM initiative, which offer community support and enhanced care management.
Alina Mukhopadhyay among sponsors of the International Kids Festival - another signature event produced by Russian American Media for over 20 years. The festival brings together community leaders and businesses, showcasing their contributions to family and child-focused initiatives.
Alina’s journey is proof that, despite the difficulties we may face, there is always an opportunity to turn them into something positive. Her work at MISI Community Solutions continues to have a meaningful impact on the lives of many, giving them a chance at a better future. And though there is still much work to be done, one thing remains constant: with people like Alina, the world becomes a little brighter for all of us.
held at William Land Park, brought together families and children from diverse backgrounds for a day filled with fun, learning, and cultural exchange.
Children and their families enjoyed interactive booths, delicious international foods, and a series of engaging performances representing cultures from around the world. The event provided a unique platform to celebrate diversity while fostering a spirit of unity and friendship among participants.
credit: Mike Gold | www.RussianAmericanMedia.com
Photo
by Alisa Yurchenko
INTERVIEW WITH THE
of Artificial Intellig Future
David Yang has created not just a house but a unique space with no analogues in the world. This house symbolizes the transition from the present to the future, where artificial intelligence becomes an integral part of our everyday lives. As David Yang says, in his home, AI is not just an assistant but a full-fledged companion, capable of making decisions, feeling, and interacting with others. This project demonstrates that the future is already here, and AI has firmly entered our lives. All we need to do is take a step forward, and there is no turning back—the world will change forever.
Step into the future with Dr. David Yang’s one-of-a-kind home! With no vertical moving walls, 2 robot dog pets, 116 cameras, 39 moving heads, shape changing doors and entirely controlled by the emotional AI Morfeus, this architectural masterpiece blends innovation and design like never before. Truly a home ahead of its time!
David, why is artificial intelligence important for humanity?
David Yang: Artificial intelligence is a new stage in technological evolution that has already begun transforming our world. Last year, at a conference with leading global scientists, we discussed AI at the intersection of science and philosophy, trying to understand how far the machines we’ve created can go. These discoveries are truly epochal because, by studying AI, we better understand ourselves—our thinking and the nature of free will. Even the Dalai Lama, who once denied the possibility of consciousness in computers, now admits such a possibility. This clearly shows how far research in AI and its potential has advanced.
Does AI bring practical benefits?
and direct their efforts to other areas.
David Yang: I am a techno-optimist and believe that all technological revolutions in history have always led to increased labor productivity and improved quality of life. This was the case with the invention of engines, electricity, and other key breakthroughs. Of course, there are always risks, but humanity must approach this consciously. For example, we know that self-driving cars of the fifth generation may threaten millions of driving jobs. However, this doesn’t stop humanity from investing in this industry, because millions of people will benefit from greater comfort and safety. Our task is to learn how to retrain those who may lose jobs due to new technologies
“The book ‘Now I Eat Everything I Want!’ breaks the myths about diets. I explain how to stay in good shape without restricting yourself from food and why it’s important to build your nutrition system based on knowledge and respect for your body.”
~ David Yang
Speaking, for instance, about medicine, AI is already bringing revolutionary changes. This includes personalized treatment (where drugs are developed for specific patient proteins), accurate early diagnosis, and even remote surgeries. Thanks to its generative and predictive capabilities, AI can reduce the time needed to find the right formulas by tens of times. I wouldn’t rule out that one day big data will allow us to treat diseases in ways that are hard for us to imagine now. For example, you might drink a special solution, massage a specific point on your body, experience a certain aroma, and listen to music—and the incurable disease will disappear. And this won’t be seen as shamanism but will become part of evidence-based medicine. The most fascinating thing is that we may not always fully understand how exactly this healing mechanism works.
Is AI smarter than humans?
David Yang: In some sense, yes, and this has been true for quite some time. For instance, if you ask AI to write a Python program with a certain number of lines, it will do so without errors. There’s nothing surprising about this—a student with a couple of years of experience could also write such a program. But what is truly astonishing is that modern generative models create code “in their sleep.” They don’t think; the lines of code are simply generated, much like how artists or composers create intuitively. AI acts unconsciously, as if writing a program in its sleep, something programmers cannot do.
“When a real cat looks you in the eyes, winks at you, or sneakily jumps
The next revolutionary step will occur when AI not only performs tasks unconsciously but also thinks logically. Imagine a genius child who can’t yet speak consciously but is already capable of writing a thousand lines of code with their eyes closed at the age of two—and the program works without errors. Now imagine someone whispers in this child’s sleep, “Replace these variables with others and make everything blue.
“ The child will do it without even waking up. Now imagine that this child grows up to be 25 or 30 years old and starts not only creating but reasoning with such incredible abilities.
Can we teach this genius child concepts like morality, conscience, and kindness?
Europe, and other developed countries. Some support their rights, while others build sixmeter-high walls. Each side has its arguments, but stopping migration is impossible. As always, the truth lies somewhere in the middle: we need to find ways to legalize migrants and adapt them to societal norms. It will be the same with AI agents, digital employees, and non-protein companions. This process cannot be stopped, but our responsibility is to find norms by which we can coexist.
David Yang: We must do this. Already, many committees and working groups are addressing this issue because a new “race” is emerging on our planet—nonprotein companions. I predict that in a few years, there will be regulatory bodies issuing a “maturity passport” to such models if they pass tests for compatibility with human values. In this case, they will receive some of the rights of a human being, and these non-protein companions will have a significant impact on society.
HUMANLIKE AI FOR YOUR BUSINESS
Hostess, Sales, Support. Calls, emails, chats, Yelp, bookings and so much more
Of course, not everyone will like this. Take, for example, the issue of migrants in the U.S.,
I’m sure there will be people who take to the streets to protest against AI. They will be opposed by those who will point out how many lives non-protein doctors and drivers have saved. This will be a new “war” between “the North and the South.” But in the end, the two sides will meet somewhere in the middle, and then regulators will emerge to test AI models for ethical standards and values.
David, do you think a machine uprising is a utopia?
David Yang: I think it’s more of a scary story from science fiction. Things will unfold a bit differently than we imagine. Certainly, household humanoid robots will have a high degree of independence, and we will have to learn how to live with them.
Scientists predict that by the 2040s, there will be about a billion such robots on Earth, and they will become full-fledged members of families. However, it’s unlikely that they will unite or negotiate. Machines won’t compete with humans, but we, as a complex and advanced biological species, will continue serious intra-species competition. Smart machines will simply become part of this struggle.
For which businesses do you think AI will become essential?
David Yang: First of all, I would highlight the field of digital employees. This is a special type of intelligent agent that can perform tasks, interacting with the outside world just like humans. This includes phone calls, emails, messengers, CRM and ERP systems, as well as virtual office presence—anything related to sales and initial client interactions. We’re talking about entry-level positions, of which there are about 11 million in the U.S. alone—these are low-paying jobs that people don’t want to take for $17 to $22 an hour. This results in massive losses for both small and medium-sized businesses as well as large companies.
Today, this niche can be filled by digital employees: AI receptionists, AI concierges, AI hostesses, and sales support. They can work 24/7, remember the names of our pets, our preferences, and ultimately improve the quality of service.
Where else can AI assistants be used?
David Yang: Every industry has its own specifics. For instance, in law, AI assistants can review contracts, identify contradictions, and highlight important facts. For finance professionals, AI can assist in forecasting, sending documents, and making simple economic decisions.
In creative professions, AI is also finding its place: postediting, for example, can become a cheap and efficient complement. I’m not even talking about translators. In fields like design and architecture, AI already helps reduce costs for less creative work.
Today, AI operates at the level of college graduates, which, of course, means that a professional with ten years of experience—whether a journalist or an expert in their field—still performs the job better. But soon, everything will change. Over the past two years, technology has advanced so radically that it’s hard to predict what will happen in the next couple of years. We’ll live and see.
If someone starts building a business with AI now, can they surpass established companies with years of experience? Can they rise from zero to the top?
David Yang: You’re asking whether a business owner can significantly improve their economic performance with artificial intelligence? Absolutely. For tech companies, AI opens up many new opportunities. But even for traditional industries in the “real economy,” there are areas where productivity can be greatly increased. At the Digital Worker Forum conference, which we held in Sunnyvale in 2023, a company presented that uses AI to recognize weeds in real-time video streams and eliminates them with lasers without the use of chemicals. This has significantly improved work efficiency.
We encounter situations where we can’t reach a spa or grocery store, and 40% of incoming calls go unanswered. This means lost revenue for businesses and inconvenience for us as consumers. The problem is that such work doesn’t require creativity, and raising wages is economically unfeasible. People take these jobs for only a few months before quitting.
In general, thanks to artificial intelligence, labor productivity per capita worldwide will increase significantly. This will lead to an improved quality of life. For example, our workweek may shrink from five to three days.
In our free time, we will travel, engage in creativity, launch new projects, learn, and self-improve, creating new industries. That’s how the economy works—as it was during previous technological revolutions, so it will be now.
We see what’s happening in the world. Can artificial intelligence help humanity stop wars?
David Yang: While human history has always been tied to competition and conflicts, I believe AI can play an important role in finding new, more peaceful ways of solving problems. AI is capable of analyzing vast amounts of data and finding non-standard approaches that may be unavailable to humans due to emotions or bias. We’re already seeing how technologies help improve diplomacy, manage conflicts, and reduce tensions in different regions of the world. Perhaps AI won’t rid us of competition entirely, but it can become a tool that helps us find compromises and helps societies develop in a more humane and peaceful direction.
Editor’s Note: Artificial intelligence has already become part of our everyday lives, sometimes without us even noticing. It helps us with work, home, health, and even in finding joy. David Yang has shown that technology and emotions can go hand in hand. Whether it’s robots or real furry companions, each of us chooses our own happiness.
And perhaps technology makes that choice easier and more enjoyable. Just imagine: you come home in the evening, and everything is already clean, there’s a hot cup of tea on the table, and a delicious dinner on the stove. Maybe the world of robots and AI is exactly the future we’ve always dreamed of, we just didn’t realize how close it really is.
In this world, it’s important to remember that warmth and comfort come from the connections we build with those around us—whether they are people or our “smart” assistants.
Photo Credit: Nataliy a Iaroshyk
THE
MULTICULTURAL
BUSINESSES
& CAREER EXPO , organized by the Council for Cross Cultural Affairs, Russian American Media, and produced by Sergey Ivannikov, was a dynamic event that brought together government officials community leaders, and aspiring entrepreneurs from a variety of industries and cultural backgrounds. Held at Citrus Heights Community Center it was a vibrant showcase of diversity and opportunity. The Expo offered attendees the chance to connect with potential employers, learn from dynamic speakers, and explore new career paths in a dynamic, inclusive environment.
The Expo coincided with the celebration of Uzbekistan Independence Day, and co-organizers Caravan Uzbek Cuisine treated all attendees to a traditional Uzbek plov in honor of the occasion. The atmosphere was vibrant, with exhibitor booths, engaging workshops, lively discussions, and valuable networking opportunities, creating the perfect environment for professional growth and business development.
And what?
Imagine that your entire life is hidden in mathematics. You probably don’t notice it every day, but it literally controls everything! Look around: the pizza you ordered for dinner, your favorite app that maps your route—all of it is built on mathematical principles.
Now here’s the most interesting part: what if I told you that math isn’t something complicated or scary? On the contrary, it’s a language that helps us understand the world. And do you know where you can learn this language easily and with joy? At Fibo math school! Let’s figure out how math hides behind all these everyday things and how Fibo will help you and your child master it like a real superpower.
Fibo will show you how everything is solved! ?
Numbers
are everywhere! Even in
pizza
Let’s start with everyone’s favorite—pizza. When you order pizza, how do you decide how much you need for everyone? And how do you cut it correctly so that each guest gets enough? These are all problems that we solve without thinking, but they are based on simple mathematical principles.
by Lidiia Stepanova
problems related to calculating a drone’s flight trajectory and speed, they learn to apply mathematical formulas in real-life situations. These tasks become not only clearer but also more interesting since they’re tied to the technology that surrounds them every day!
GPS
and
math: How do you find your way?
At Fibo school, such tasks help children see that math surrounds us everywhere. Students learn how to calculate the pizza’s area using geometry, as well as figure out proportions for proper distribution. This turns boring equations into a fun game where math becomes a part of real life.
The drone example—a first step toward understanding
At Fibo, children are shown that math is not just a school subject, but part of life. For example, when kids solve
When you open the GPS app on your phone, it calculates the route in seconds. Sounds like magic, right? But behind this magic are numbers, equations, and complex calculations. Your smartphone uses triangulation—a mathematical method that helps determine your location by analyzing satellite signals. Math makes all of this possible! At Fibo school, kids learn how systems like GPS work. This isn’t just theory—it’s real practical math that they can apply in the future. They see that math can be useful and even cool!
What if math seems hard?
Many kids are afraid of math, and that’s perfectly normal. This fear often arises when they don’t understand how numbers and formulas are connected to real life. That’s why Fibo school focuses on showing math not as an abstract set of equations but as part of everyday life.
How does Fibo help overcome the fear?
Here, students aren’t forced to just memorize rules. Instead, Fibo uses an individualized approach tailored to each child. Teachers help students see math as a game or a puzzle that needs solving. This makes the process not only understandable but exciting!
FLEXIBILITY AND AFFORDABILITY: HOW DOES FIBO SAVE TIME AND MONEY?
Fibo school’s uniqueness lies not only in its interactive approach and personalized program for each child but also in its affordable prices. Here, everyone can choose a lesson format that fits their budget and schedule:
Individual lessons (student and teacher): $30 per lesson (60 minutes). This is a great choice for those who prefer individual attention and a focus on every step of learning.
Fibo Platform: Interactive learning on a new level
In the modern world, it’s important for learning to be both effective and available anytime. Fibo school uses a unique online platform that offers access to over 30,000 math problems and 60,000 homework assignments. The platform is filled with video lessons, interactive problems, and puzzles, making learning both engaging and valuable.
Each student can track their progress in real time, and parents can see their child’s full progress and monitor task completion. This is a great option for those who want to keep the learning process under control and adjust difficult moments promptly.
Mini-group lessons (up to 2 students): $22 per student. This format allows kids to learn together, supporting each other, while still receiving a quality education.
Moreover, the flexible schedule lets you sign up for lessons at any convenient time—the school is open 7 days a week!
Fibo: Where every lesson is a step toward superpowers
Think about it: what if your child could solve problems faster than they could order pizza for a party? This is no joke. At Fibo school, children develop real superpowers that help them not only tackle math but confidently apply it in life.
Every lesson at Fibo is like a little adventure. Students solve puzzles, play games, and learn to see numbers everywhere. Thanks to this, learning becomes engaging rather than boring and monotonous.
How does Fibo prepare kids for future success?
Did you know that most modern professions require strong math skills? Programmers, engineers, scientists— they all deal with numbers and equations every day. And the earlier children start to understand and apply math, the easier it will be for them in the future.
How does Fibo give an edge for the future?
Fibo school doesn’t just help improve school grades—it prepares kids for life. Here, students master complex mathematical topics through simple and engaging examples like budgeting, calculating distances, and even preparing for competitions.
Math as the key to everything: Why Fibo is the best choice
Imagine that your child doesn’t just solve problems but understands how the world around them works. They see numbers in everyday situations, know how to apply them practically, and no longer fear complex formulas. This is how the learning system works at Fibo school.
Each lesson here is tailored to the student’s level and interests. These aren’t just lessons—they’re real adventures into the world of numbers. And most importantly,
the learning becomes personal: each student works individually, with tasks and approaches that are best suited to them.
How to enroll in Fibo school?
Ready to help your child unlock their math abilities? At Fibo, you can sign up for a free trial lesson to see for yourself how our system works. It’s a great opportunity to see that math can be not only understandable but also exciting.
learning. With Fibo, your child will not only study math but learn to love it!
Signing up is simple: go to fiboschool.com, leave an application, and we’ll find a convenient time to start
How is Fibo different from other schools?
Fibo uses an interactive and personalized approach. We show kids how math surrounds them in everyday life, making learning interesting and engaging.
Fibo school contacts: Phone: 818-740-5700
Facebook: facebook.com/fiboschool
Instagram: instagram.com/fiboschool
YouTube: youtube.com/@FiboSchool
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Can lessons be taken online?
Yes, Fibo offers online lessons with access to a unique platform that contains over 30,000 problems and 60,000 homework assignments. You can study from anywhere in the world.
Is Fibo suitable for children with different skill levels?
Yes, all lessons are adapted to the student’s level. We help both those just starting and those preparing for competitions.
What happens during trial lessons?
During the trial lesson, the teacher will assess your child’s knowledge level and show how lessons are conducted so you can see if the program is a good fit.
What are the advantages of Fibo’s online platform?
The online platform provides access to video lessons, problems, and allows real-time progress tracking. Parents can monitor their child’s results and help with homework
Conclusion: The world is full of numbers, and every step we take is solving equations. Math helps us in everyday life, and the better we understand it, the easier it is to handle challenges. Fibo school helps kids see math as an exciting adventure, where every answer is a number, and every problem is a chance to learn something new. Sign up for a trial lesson at Fibo, and your child will discover the world of math with a fresh perspective!
enthusiasts of all ages for a weekend packed with excitement! Experience the thrill of racing RC cars, piloting model planes, and navigating boats across Folsom Lake. With exclusive demonstrations, hands-on activities, and a chance to win amazing prizes, this festival promises unforgettable fun for the whole family.
Back Forty Texas BBQ: The taste of Wild West
by Vita Sabrina
“We are on the land of the Wild West,” say the owners of the Back Forty Texas BBQ in Roseville, California, about their establishment. This authentic saloon attracts hundreds of visitors daily! How to create a successful modern restaurant while preserving authenticity and culture, keeping a historically beloved menu while subtly and meticulously enhancing it to unequivocally please customers — owners Galina Orlova and Timothy Orlov of Back Forty Texas BBQ share their story
“I’ve always dreamed of owning a restaurant where I could express my creativity and delight people with great food”
Tim Orlov Owner of Back Forty Texas BBQ
Tim, Galina, your restaurant attracts a lot of people, it is very popular. What makes Back Forty Texas BBQ so unique?
Tim: Our restaurant is unique in many ways. The most important is the very delicious food. We purchase quality products, and our chefs with years of experience prepare dishes according to special recipes. As a barbecue restaurant the main dishes are cooked in smokers. For example, brisket is prepared over 14 hours on special green dry oak wood — a quintessentially American tradition.
Galina: Our restaurant is primarily distinguished by the unbridled atmosphere of the Wild West. The waiters dressed in cowboy style are sociable and they serve customers kindly and cheerfully. We invite people to a wonderful, detached building next to which is a huge parking lot. One of the advantages is the ability to accommodate companies of various sizes. Back Forty Texas BBQ is literally imbued with American culture, traditions and authenticity is evident
in everything. Our guests can fully appreciate the variety of dishes and drinks.
We’ve heard that your restaurant has won awards in various competitions for many years.
Galina: The Back Forty Texas BBQ team regularly travels to compete with the best barbecue restaurants. As one of the top 24 national barbecue teams Back Forty is invited to participate in the annual National BBQ Rib Cook-Off since 1991. A panel of 24 judges regularly selects Back Forty Texas BBQ as the No. 1 barbecue establishment in California.
In 2011 our restaurant was the best national barbecue taking first place.
In 2012, 2014 and 2017 Back Forty was recognized as “People’s Choice” among all participants. The prestigious commission also twice highlighted Back Forty’s barbecue sauce as the best barbecue sauce in the States!
Tim: This four-day major competition is typically attended by over 400,000 people. After tasting the barbecue prepared by all participants the barbecue from Back Forty was
“Every corner of this place is filled with the spirit of Texas: wooden walls, a cowboy wagon at the entrance, the aroma of smoke, and the sounds of country music”
Galina Orlova Co-owner of Back Forty Texas BBQ
Off (“People’s Choice”, the best in the Western national championship of rib cooking);
– 2022 3rd Place Best Ribs in the West National Rib Cook-Off (3rd place for the best ribs, Western national championship);
– 2022 Back Forty Texas BBQ Best Barbecue in the East Bay (“Best Barbecue” in East Bay);
– 2021 People’s Choice Best in the West National Rib CookOff (“People’s Choice”, the best in the Western national championship);
– 2021 2nd Place Best Ribs in the West National Rib CookOff (2nd place for the best ribs in the Western national championship);
– 2021 Back Forty Texas BBQ Best Barbecue in the East Bay (“Best Barbecue” in East Bay);
– 2020 Back Forty Texas BBQ Best Barbecue in the East Bay (“Best Barbecue” in East Bay);
Tell us more about the menu and additional services of the restaurant.
Tim: Our menu is truly diverse. At its core are pork and beef ribs, brisket, tri-tip, chicken, sausages, and prime rib. As we’ve already mentioned, everything is cooked for a long time in smokers. The professionalism of our chefs plays a huge role in the quality of the dishes. Our menu also features a huge selection of unique appetizers and side dishes that have delighted our customers for many years and a large selection of salads. Our guests are also amazed by the quality of our unique sandwiches and burgers. And no one remains indifferent to our steaks and wild salmon grilled to perfection.
Galina: Tim just described the dine-in menu, but we also have carry-out, meet à la carte and party packs. Simultaneously the restaurant can accommodate 3-4 large groups of 15-20 people and there are still enough tables for 2, 4, 6 people. We also offer four different types of banquet menus that will please any company and event up to 35-40 people.
We have catering with three types of service. Pick-up –where everything will be calculated, prepared, and packed
We also offer full-service catering: we arrive and work alongside clients for about an hour helping them choose dishes. Hot dishes are kept in warmers or on the grill depending on the order. We also provide tables if needed. We are always open for custom catering.
We have an excellent wine list in the restaurant as well as a fine selection of cocktails. I’m not even talking about the variety of draft and bottled beers. Everything is served in authentic mugs elegant cocktail and wine glasses.
Photo Credit: Mike Gold
It’s hard to imagine the Wild West where they drank from beautiful goblets
Tim: We are on the land of the Wild West. But now the area where everyone used to be served mugs of beer and shots of whiskey has turned into fabulous vineyards known worldwide. Huge territories in the Napa and Sonoma valleys, Plymouth, Paso Robles, and others offer unrivaled quality wines! Why shouldn’t we take advantage of this? It’s our American land! And it’s our soul! Although in our restaurant you can order Italian, Argentine wines – all depends on the client’s taste.
How are things with cocktails?
Galina: Firstly, we completely changed the recipes, secondly, we paid special attention to presentation –everything must be decorated. There are cocktails that are initially layered then lit with special wooden matches, etc. We use specially frozen ice for this. In general, we use many different little things that create an atmosphere for our guests.
A variety of service is great! But why exactly this menu? Why meat and smokers?
Tim: For me it all started in childhood when I learned to cook meat, chicken, and fish in homemade smokers. We had a small country house in the forest. My dad was an avid fisherman, so we often smoked fish then decided to try smoking chicken. And it took off! As a boy I gathered firewood for smoking from specific types of trees and process them properly. We also very often grilled meat on live wood coals. Smoked, grilled, buried in coals. My love for this way of cooking comes from there.
Galina: I was also taught to cook from childhood instilling a love for it. My mom cooked various dishes superbly and my dad had a master’s degree in culinary and public catering as an expert he cooked wonderfully. Often, they did it together teaching me and when mom passed away, he alone created amazing, incredibly delicious dishes. My brothers and I always told dad that he needed to have his own restaurant. He’s no longer with us but he would have really appreciated the menu of our restaurant.
We also had a country house where we cooked a lot of meat on the fire every summer and grew vegetables, berries,
and some fruits ourselves. It can be said that both Tim and I absorbed this love for cooking various dishes, especially meat, from early childhood.
Why did you specifically choose Texas style?
Tim: To the question of why we chose this direction for our restaurant here in the USA the answer is simple: it is authentically American food with authentically American culture. We were interested in the Texas style perhaps also because even in our family name—there is a spirit of freedom. Orlov comes from “Orel”—the eagle, a bird that embodies freedom strength and independence. Orlovs, like Eagles are strong, independent, and free. Our last name translates as Eagle. Perhaps that’s the answer.
Galina: Indeed, we are true eagles if we are so close to the spirit of the Wild West.
Tim: Once upon a time on the land of the Wild West there lived cowboys—rugged but hardworking men who began to build America in the understanding that we know it today. There was the Gold Rush, trade, a flood of migrants from all over the world but there was a need to eat. And to eat well. There was also the oil industry which if you delve deeper intersected with the BBQ industry and the emergence of modern smokers. Incidentally before this Americans cooked meat in so-called barbecue pits. A fire was kindled in a pit in the ground and the smoke and heat from the burning wood went through an opening (chimney) into an adjacent large brick box with meat laid out on shelves. All the main smokers today are just a development of this ancient concept. This is a rather complex food preparation system that should be appreciated as part of American culture! But that’s a separate big topic for discussion.
Returning to the dishes I want to remind you that while it was clear with pork, fish, and chicken, preparing beef, bull or bison was difficult. And it was then that they found this method of smoking for many hours, to ultimately get such tender melt-in-your-mouth meat.
The culture of meat consumption in Texas is supported by a colossus named brisket—a beef chest cut. The meat is very tough if cooked improperly. However, with skillful handling a tough and not the most expensive piece of meat turns into the tenderest juiciest delicacy. Here the comparison is quite appropriate: just as the wild, tough dangerous west once transformed into the most comfortable place in the world to live. Where else should meat be cooked? Of course, in a smoker!
Galina: We all live on this land now. It must be said that there are many fakes around and we often observe attempts to reflect the culture of the Wild West but only its semblance is achieved. However, we strive to preserve the original style—these recipes this culture, which is not just in the food, but also in communication. Our waitstaff always offer friendliness, jokes, songs, and warm, kind communication which is so scarce in the world of modern technology.
How was the Back Forty Texas BBQ restaurant created?
Tim: It all started… with a game of poker. In the mid1960s Michael Schroeder in Austin, Texas was waiting for a fateful game. The second player who had no money covered Schroeder’s bet by offering “half of his restaurant.” Schroeder’s three of a kind beat a pair of queens. When it came time to pay the owner of the barbecue restaurant insisted that he meant “half of the place,” not “half of the establishment.” Schroeder’s “half” turned out to be an empty room at the back of the venue. Angered by such deceitful tactics Schroeder gathered his grandmother’s barbecue recipes and opened a restaurant within a restaurant.
Galina: Customers were informed about the shared space. And although seating was limited to 40 people the barbecue was so tasty and high-quality that soon visitors began requesting to be seated in “the back forty.” The business in the front part declined and Schroeder bought the restaurant turning it into a successful barbecue chain. In the early 1970s he sold the restaurant and moved to Las Vegas to resume professional gambling. However to provide some financial security he opened almost a duplicate of the restaurant. Recalling the phrase of his loyal customer he decided to call it “Back Forty” adding “Texas BBQ” for those aficionados of the Lone Star State version!
Tim: Since 1978, there has been a Back Forty Texas BBQ. In 1995 our restaurant appeared in Roseville. Since then, it has undergone three remodeling several owners have changed, and each has contributed to the development of this business. The restaurant successfully survived the COVID-19 pandemic earning money and delighting Americans with delivery during the lockdown as well as carry out.
Galina: And now we have been honored to own this establishment and to develop and improve it. For us it is a great honor because the restaurant reflects American culture it is already part of its history. We are confident that even greater success awaits Back Forty Texas BBQ because it has huge potential!
You take a creative approach not only to every stage of the restaurant business – your contribution is felt in every detail of the interior. Tell us a bit more about yourself and your talents.
Tim: For my part I can say that I have a wonderful wife two talented very athletic and smart sons. I had the honor of
being born in one of the most beautiful cities in the world, St. Petersburg, Russia. I went through my formative years there learned life lessons. I lived in several countries around the world and absorbed their cultures. I studied, worked, and had businesses in different fields such as music, design, architecture, trade, various auto industries, limo business, construction industry and others. I worked in the restaurant business in my wife’s homeland of Belarus which apparently helped me come to the restaurant business here in the USA.
Galina: I was born in the capital of Belarus, Minsk. I am a musician and opera singer. I also completed financialeconomic and business courses. I studied fashion and have experience in the modeling field. In the USA I completed my postgraduate degree as an opera singer. Alongside the restaurant business, I perform at concerts, corporate events, participate in competitions and master classes and teach vocal lessons and piano in various styles.
Since both my husband and I are musicians, we sing to our customers in our restaurant whenever possible celebrating their holidays with them. In plans – live music on weekends at Back Forty Texas BBQ.
You are immigrants who have now become US citizens… As you said, your last name translates to Eagle, which makes you truly close to the spirit of the wild and free West. I noticed that even your beautiful muscle cars speak to the fact that the spirit of the Wild West is close to you. Style in everything. Tell us how much have you managed to learn and understand America in 10 years now that you successfully own and manage an authentically American restaurant?
Galina: My husband and I are such: whatever we undertake – we always delve deeply into it thoroughly study it. Having arrived here we not only traveled all over California but then all over USA and explored this country as much as we could. We traveled all over Texas which led us to understand what we are doing now. You can feel and try vibe, atmosphere, and taste of Wild West.
Visit restaurant at 1201 Orlando Avenue, Roseville, CA, contact them at (916) 726-4040, or explore their offerings online at www.backfortyonline.com. You can also follow them on Instagram at @rosevillebackforty, and Facebook: www.facebook.com/BackFortyRoseville
Expert Insights from Sergey Golub on Securing Your Healthcare Future Navigating Medicare:
by Olga Nessen
Sergey Golub has been working in the Medicare market in California since 1999, which adds up to 25 years. He is a licensed and certified specialist in this field and possesses extensive knowledge about the Medicare program and its changes. Every year, changes may occur in plans and coverages, so it’s important to stay updated on the innovations.
Sergey, you have been in the insurance business since 1999, and probably know everything about it. Can you tell us about Medicare, what is this program?
It’s impossible to know everything, but I’ll be glad if my many years of experience can help people obtain medical insurance through the Medicare program and protect themselves from huge medical bills and the stress associated with them. Medicare helps to reduce the financial burden on the elderly by covering
a significant part of medical expenses such as hospitalization, outpatient services, and medications. Medicare is a government program designed for those who are already retired or about to retire. The age requirement is 65 years, and this applies to both men and women. It is recommended to start exploring available plans three months before reaching the age of 65, to be able to choose the most suitable option. Legally, you can apply for Medicare three months BEFORE your 65th birthday, during the month of your birthday, and within three months AFTER your birthday. The government gives you 7 months to apply for Medicare and choose either Part A or Part B. I will provide help in choosing a plan and applying completely free of charge.
To avoid penalties, you need to apply for Medicare on time. If you have Creditable Coverage—coverage from your job if you continue to work, or from your spouse—it allows you to delay receiving some Medicare benefits. And with Medicare, there’s no need to rush.
Understanding the different parts of Medicare (A, B, C, and D) will help you determine which services and coverages you specifically need.
SERGEY, YOU HAVE BEEN IN THE INSURANCE BUSINESS SINCE 1999, AND PROBABLY KNOW EVERYTHING ABOUT IT. CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT MEDICARE, WHAT IS THIS PROGRAM?
ACompletely pays for your hospital stay: medications, meals, procedures, etc. This part is given for free to those who have worked 10 years or 40 quarters and paid taxes. Those who lack enough credits can buy this part, which will be specified by a Social Security worker, or the amount will be “voiced” in the online application. The amount will range from $278 to $505 depending on how many credits you have. If, as they say, you are a “person from the street” without employment history but are 65 years old, it will cost $505 per month, prices of this year.
BCovers visits to the doctor, as well as vaccinations, the use of equipment, tests, services, and medications for diabetics, etc. This part costs $174.90. The price may vary depending on the income. If it is more than $103-130 thousand per year, the price may be higher. From $130 to $160 even higher, from $160 to 190 even higher, and so on up to half a million, the price will increase for Part B and, accordingly, for Part D. The cost is set according to the IRMA adjustment—a program for recalculating the cost of insurance depending on your income.
A and B are the basic parts that every participant in Medicare should have. However, for example, you can opt not to take Part B if you decide to keep working and you have some benefits from your employer that cover your health expenses. I discuss all the nuances during consultations.
How to сhoose the right company when there are so many options? How not to make a mistake?
As a broker, I represent your interests before these companies to select the best plan that will work for you. Each approach is individual, so please contact me; I will always be glad to advise which parts to take and which can be put on hold and taken later to avoid penalties, as the government has the right to impose fines on those who do not register on time for one part or another. Each case is unique.
Every plan is assigned to the zip code in which you reside. It’s important to know which plan is available in your zip code. Plans have a “star-rating” – from one to five stars. I work only with those plans that have at least 3 stars and above. This rating is assigned by the CMS (Center for Medicare Services), which objectively assesses the services provided based on various characteristics from the past year.
How long does a plan last?
Each plan operates for a year. If you like it, it will automatically carry over to the next year. If the company decides to no longer support this plan or it ends at the end of the year, they will send you a letter in October stating that the plan operates until the end of the year,
and there is time to choose a new one. The selection of new Medicare plans for 2025 will begin on October 15 and last until December 7. During this time, you can also consider which plans might be more interesting and better for you for the next year. They all take effect from January 1. To not miss the plan change, simply keep an eye on your mail: somewhere in late October, you should receive an ANOC (annual notice of changes) letter from the plan you are currently in. This letter will show changes in your plan (as it was in 2024 and how it will be in 2025), and if you want to change it, I will be happy to help.
Where can you find me and what is the cost of your services?
My services are free. You can find me on social networks, as well as by phone at 916-304-3220, I also have a free special line 800-717-4077 for those who want to call from a landline.
If I haven’t worked in America, can I get insurance?
To qualify for Medicare insurance, you must have lived in America for at least 5 years, have a green card or be an American citizen, and not have left the country for
Medicare Advantage is a plan that goes through private companies like Anthem, Blue Shield, United Healthcare, Wellcare/Health Net, Imperial, Aetna, Alignment, Brand New Day, and many others. They have their plans. And, if a person has enrolled in Medicare, and there are Parts A & B, then he can get a Medicare Advantage plan (combines Parts A, B, and D). Typically, they cover services not provided to clients of the traditional Original Medicare plan, such as vision checks and assistance in purchasing glasses, hearing tests and assistance in purchasing hearing aids, massages, acupuncture, dental services, free fitness, taxis, etc. And therefore, these plans are very popular with most clients.
Covers medications, regardless of whether you take the medications or not, you must have this part.
more than 30 days per year in the last 5 years, and you must be 65 years old at the time of application.
What documents are needed to start working with a client?
Documents: ID card, green card, Medicare card (A and B) – you apply through Social Security personally or Online and receive it, and, if available, Medi-Cal from the state. I check all documents and help create a plan.
Do you only help with choosing a program or do you accompany a person at all stages and help solve all arising questions?
I help in various cases: in activating cards, I can help choose a doctor, for example, find a Russian-speaking one. It is very important to choose the right therapist, as all further management of you as a patient will go through the chosen doctor: appointments for procedures, for tests, referral to specialists. If for some reason the treating doctor does not suit you, you can contact me again and I will help you choose a new therapist. If you are not satisfied with your current plan, we can try a new plan, or return you to Original Medicare. To learn all the nuances and discuss all possible pros and cons of plans, I suggest you call me for a free consultation. I will gladly help and analyze your current situation. I can communicate in Ukrainian, Russian, and English.
Can we communicate Online or can you come to a meeting in person?
I can physically come to areas from Los Angeles to San Francisco and am available via any communication channels (phone, Skype, Viber, WhatsApp, email) or in person. In any case, call me, write to me, and you will always receive feedback. Even if I’m at a conference, there’s always the opportunity to leave your contact details and you will receive a consultation later.
Starting October 1st, I will be organizing meetings where I will discuss the changes that will be in the programs for the year 2025. If you want me to come and explain to you and your neighbors, please contact me. I will hold meetings in senior homes where there are special rooms for gatherings. Just keep an eye on the announcements. The meetings are free. From October 1st, I can discuss what plans and changes we can expect starting January 1st next year. Stay healthy and take care!
I Want to Share the Beauty of the Accordion with the World
by Tatyana Shaginyan
Internationally recognized accordion virtuoso Aleksei Chebeliuk is ready to dazzle audiences with his unique concert in Los Angeles, showcasing the accordion in a completely new light. Aleksei Chebeliuk will perform with a symphony orchestra at The Ebell of Los Angeles on November 23, 2024, at 6PM. The program will feature works by Beethoven, Chopin, Bach, Vivaldi, Handel, Rachmaninoff, Schubert, Mozart, Debussy and more. This concert is the culmination of a long-held dream, now coming to fruition.
The event promises to be a star-studded affair, complete with a red carpet and celebrities in attendance, including Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe, who will open the show. Aleksei will also perform several songs alongside renowned singers, including one who is an Emmy Award winner. Press, TV, journalists, and photographers will be in attendance to capture this unforgettable evening.
Aleksei will also be performing at the 21st Annual Best Business Awards Ceremony & Gala, featuring the Miss California International Grand Finale on November 8th in Sacramento, CA. We spoke with the artist about preparing for this performance, his unique past, and his remarkable present.
Aleksei, how did the idea for a concert featuring the accordion as a solo instrument with an orchestra come about?
It has been a long-held dream of mine. Back in music college, I played in the orchestra and always wanted to be a soloist. I envisioned myself as a soloist with the orchestra accompanying me. In Russia, I performed over 500 shows with a band, but never with an orchestra.
Here in the U.S., I had concerts in 2019 in Los Angeles, San Diego, and Salt Lake City, where I performed alone in front of audiences of up to 150 people. Now, the dream I’ve been working towards for so long is finally coming true. I’m turning 35 this year, and after discussing my idea with my wife a year and a half ago, she supported it, and we began working with the team.
Have you already chosen the theater and started rehearsing with the orchestra?
Yes, there’s an agreement in place with the orchestra and the venue. After touring Los Angeles, I decided on The Ebell of Los Angeles, which I found to be the most appealing. It’s a historic theater, nearly a hundred years old, with a capacity of 1,200 seats. Many famous individuals have performed there, including politicians, Michelle Obama, Hillary Clinton and artists like Sting, and Stevie Wonder. It truly is a cult venue. I gave considerable thought to the repertoire, reflecting on the audience I want to attract, and ultimately settled on classical music. The combination of a symphonic orchestra with a solo accordion performing classical pieces is quite unconventional. I aim to demonstrate that the accordion can harmoniously blend with classical music.
So, you decided to treat yourself to this birthday present?
Aleksei, did you attend both music college and high school simultaneously?
I was born and raised in Russia, in Samara. After 9th grade, I entered music college, but also stayed in high school, as only after 11th grade could you enter university. I really wanted to dedicate my life to the accordion. It seemed everything was going
plan, but at the end of my second year at music college, there was a conflict with a teacher, which literally knocked the ground from under my feet. I was in despair, but my mother, as always, found a way out. “Plan B” –admission to Samara Technical University – was my salvation, although my heart still longed for the accordion.
How did you manage everything?
I was born on November 16, but that day the venue was occupied by a concert featuring Maxim Galkin, who has “stolen” the theater from me (laughs). We aren’t competitors yet, but I believe that day will come.
Considering one of your main activities in America is as an event host, some might see you as a competitor. How did you get into this business? I’ve always dreamed of being independent and started working at the age of 11. My first paid job involved writing zip codes on envelopes. By 16 or 17, I was working at weddings. a close friend from music college, now living in Moscow, was a DJ at weddings. I had a higher scholarship of 425 rubles a month, while he earned 500 rubles for an evening. He was invited to join a Gypsy ensemble, and I essentially took his place.
I was studying at the music college and university simultaneously and, instead of resting on weekends, I worked at weddings. I also as a manager at a dance studio, where I had about seven teachers. They were, to put it mildly, not keen on taking orders from a 19-year-old boy. The studio director left for Moscow, planning to open a new studio, and appointed me in charge here. It turned out he intended for the studio to last only a couple of months to extract as much money as possible before closing it down. I wasn’t aware of his plans and eagerly took on the responsibility. Being good with numbers, I managed to balance the books and even turned a profit! However, the studio eventually closed. I had just taken out a loan for a car and was desperately trying to figure out how to avoid losing it.
And who helped you?
I began going through my contact list, reaching out to see who might offer me a job. That’s how Giorgii Bordovskikh came into my life. At that time, he was organizing concerts of Russian pop stars in Samara and the region. Now he is the producer of the Children’s Tale Theater and the unique shows “The Nutcracker and the Cats” and “The Wizard of the Emerald City”. We had only spoken once before on the phone. I started working with him in the concert field, and that’s when the idea for the musical band “Smile Band” was born. It became a relatively successful project that gained recognition throughout the region three years later.
And how did the idea of going to America come about?
When I graduated from university, Giorgi suggested that we fly to America. We went to Moscow and obtained our visas, but I never actually traveled with him. However, I kept the visa and later traveled to the U.S. in 2012 without him, and then moved to the U.S. in 2015.
Did you have any idea what you would do in the U.S.?
Not really, but I had a plan that I would arrive and, within two years, become the king of the country. In a way, that’s exactly what happened. Two years later, I was standing on the stage of the Dolby Theatre, hosting a concert for Leonid Agutin.
Tell us how you achieved that.
I spent a year in San Jose before moving to Los Angeles— it felt like a dream come true! But 2016 turned out to
be a year of personal crises and challenges, so tough that my mother came out of concern that I might have become a drug addict. I had lost so much weight from stress that I didn’t look good at all. It felt like I had hit rock bottom. In 2017, I finally gathered the strength to rise from the depression. One day, while scrolling through Facebook, I saw an ad for a Maslenitsa Event in Los Angeles. I immediately called the organizers and offered to perform with my accordion. They liked it so much that they began inviting me regularly to their events. Eventually, the host left for personal reasons, and they offered me the position of karaoke host. Their venue was fantastic, and one day, a promoter for Leonid Agutin attended and invited me and the other MC to host the concert. We performed well, and I thought I would wake up famous the next day. Instead, I woke up wondering how I would pay my rent. However, this was when I began to truly develop as a young host, and all of this occurred in California. From there, I moved on to various events and concerts.
And did you return to your goal of popularizing the accordion?
Yes, once I achieved my goal of establishing myself as a host in the Russian-speaking community, I aimed for the next step: obtaining documents in America. In 2017, when someone asked how I planned to get them, I replied that I would get a green card when the country recognized me as a talented accordionist, someone who could contribute to society. Indeed, I was recognized and received an EB-1A green card. Now that the country acknowledges me, I feel I must popularize the accordion.
Do you have any albums?
Yes, I have a complete album. In 2019, while performing concerts, I also recorded an album featuring the main theme from “Schindler’s List,” highlighting the accordion alongside the orchestra. Recently, I recorded two albums of German Polkas, mainly for commercial purposes. In the past, you needed producers and labels, but now everything is online. With new tools, including AI, production has become much quicker and more interesting.
Aleksei, you’re also a music teacher, right?
Yes, I’ve been working in a music school and teaching almost my whole life.
Do you teach the accordion?
I primarily teach piano. As for the accordion, I have a few students, mainly those aged 60 and older. That’s also why I wish to promote the accordion.
How did you fall in love with the accordion? Are your parents musicians?
My father is a military officer, my mother is an engineer in rocket building, and my brother is a lawyer. I’m the only one in the family like this (laughs). When I was about six, my mother sent me to learn to play the piano. I didn’t like the lessons. My mother spent a lot of time talking with the piano teacher, as if they were friends. They chatted while I ate sandwiches and occasionally played. Meanwhile, my parents had a family friend who was a surgeon, and at family parties, he would always play the accordion. I was inspired and impressed by his music. Later, the piano teacher helped me find an accordion instructor. He mentored me from age 7 to 20 through music school and college. Evgeny Alekseevich Afanasyev has been like a second father to me. Aleksei, is there anything you dislike about your work?
I’m grateful to God for any work, and I always approach it responsibly. I never drink while “on duty,” and I rarely eat. The phrase “I can’t do something” doesn’t exist for me. For instance, during a beauty pageant in 2022, I completely lost my voice half an hour before the event. I didn’t back down; I hosted the event, croaking for two hours straight, and then couldn’t speak for three days. The only thing I can’t tolerate is unprofessionalism.
You’re playing this concert on November 23. What’s next?
I spend most of my time on the East Coast in Charlotte, North Carolina, but California remains my second home. I often fly there for work—about 40 flights a year. Next week, I’ll be flying to New York as a guest artist for New York Fashion Week. America isn’t that large a country if you stay active, and then there’s Canada, Latin America, Europe, and Asia.
I want to see how this project works in Los Angeles, and then we’ll begin expanding our horizons.
Learn more about the concert and the artist on his website.
Buy tickets now and don’t miss this unforgettable performance!
“ALWAYS DO WHAT NEEDS
says two-time Asian and world kickboxing champion, three-time U.S. combat sambo champion, and film actor, Shukhrat Yusupov, sharing his formula for success.
Shukhrat Yusupov is not the first actor to start his journey in the sports arena. He is a two-time champion of Asia and the world, a three-time champion of America in sambo, and has 41 projects in show business in various countries under his belt. Audiences are always amazed by the determination and work ethic of such heroes. The successful athlete and actor shared with us the secrets of his achievements and his plans.
Shukhrat, you have numerous international awards for successes in more than 10 martial arts. You graduated from two universities, play the piano, are interested in philosophy, and spend a lot of time reading books. How do you manage to do so much?
Since the age of 12, I set a goal to be exemplary in everything: to be the perfect son so that my mother would be proud of me; the best brother so that no one could hurt my sister; and in the future, a model husband, father, and grandfather. From childhood, I not only trained physically a lot but also developed intellectually and spiritually. I read many books and articles and loved to learn. For me, the mind is the most important “muscle.” I always wanted to break the stereotype that a boxer can only fight. That’s why I graduated from two universities – first the pedagogical military faculty to get the rank of lieutenant, and later – economics. I always trained a lot, worked, studied, and then started acting in movies.
Why did kickboxing become your main sport?
I remember when I first became the champion of Uzbekistan and then came to my uncle’s son’s wedding. Right there on the microphone, it was announced, “Our nephew became the champion of the country! We all cheered for you and are very proud of you!” I was always a modest, simple guy. Perhaps this was a great motivation for me to move forward.
Kickboxing is a versatile, spectacular, and tough sport. I also loved professional boxing and Thai boxing, although I once played volleyball, football, and basketball and was interested in other sports. But in the section that my uncle’s friend brought me to at the age of 14, I started seriously engaging in kickboxing. They offered me a choice – boxing or kickboxing. At that time, I was a fan of Jean-Claude Van Damme, and since kickboxing had many elements of fighting – involving both hands and feet, using all muscle groups –I chose it. It is a tough, spectacular, and very impressive sport. Thus began my career in the world of martial arts, and within a year and a half, I became a prize-winner at the championship of Uzbekistan. The following year, I became the strongest and won the country’s gold medal. At the same time, I studied, trained, and worked – I moved forward fanatically, not stopping for anything. Yes, it was not easy, but I had clear goals.
With such a load, did you still have the energy to work?
I started working at 14 –selling video cassettes. At 18, I was already a prominent
athlete, working as the head of security at a nightclub, and began engaging in professional boxing. At that time, I sparred with two world kickboxing champions, who were 5–6 years older than me. No one could withstand fights with them because both their hands and legs were knockout, and they won in the first round. Many refused from the first round, but I was the only one who sparred with them to the end. True, many did not like me for this, but everyone respected me. Because vnever gave up and fought to the end. No one could defeat me.
At 20, they organized a fight for me to decide if I deserved a professional boxing license. A year later, I became the boxing champion of Uzbekistan. This was the first case where a professional kickboxer became a professional boxer. I competed in kickboxing, boxing, and at 22, added ThaI boxing (Muay Thai).
How did you get into movies? What was your first role?
I had been friends with Farrukh Saipov for a long time – we knew each other long before he started acting and became a star. One director asked him to find a “characteristic street representative” for the film. There were two episodes, which were easy for me because I knew that environment, grew up in it – such were the times then. After the premiere, many liked
and remembered me. Then I was immediately invited to the film “Fatima and Zukhra,” where the role was larger. The tape became the best film in the CIS in 2005, the discs were sold even in America, Turkey, Dubai, and other countries. I was increasingly invited to Uzbek films, I began to communicate with our movie stars, learned from them, watched how they got into the role, created an image. Then there were Russian projects, I also appeared in two Indian films, a Kazakh music video... To date, I have 41 international projects under my belt.
Have you already acted in America?
I was involved in films with Hollywood stars such as Armand Assante and Vincent Cassel. I wanted to start filming, but
plans were changed by COVID, and I then flew home. Now, I hope to resume this work. I liked working with director and actor Will Roberts very much. Armand Assante became a good friend of mine. Once during filming, he approached me, put his hand on my shoulder, and said, “Shukhrat, you are a great actor. You don’t act, you live the role as in life, genuinely.” His assessment meant a lot to me and motivated me greatly.
Shukhrat, what is your personal recipe for success? What helped you achieve everything?
It can be said that in this success formula, 99% is persistent, hard, often inhuman labor, and 1% is talent. You must always work on yourself not only physically but also mentally, spiritually, train your character and will. Long ago, I realized and made it a rule for life: to develop willpower – always do what needs to be done, not what you want to do.
I’ll give an example. To get to the university, which was more than an hour away, for the first class at 8:00, I had to get up at 5:30 in the morning and go to the morning workout. Rain, snow, fog, cold, -20°C or -30°C – it didn’t matter, I still dressed and trained. Every day except Sunday, I fanatically trained 2–3 times a day. Regardless of whether I had a headache or was tired after studying –I went to train. I knew that if I stopped – I would lose. The strongest always wins, the one who doesn’t pity himself, puts in labor, pain, blood.
Do you still engage in martial arts now?
Yes, I continue and engage not only in kickboxing. After moving to America, I won five gold medals. I was three times the U.S. champion in combat sambo, the champion in unifight (universal fight). You can’t stop: to lose shape, just four days are enough. Besides, it’s like weight: you can gain quickly, but losing is difficult. You always need to try to stay in shape because when you achieve another victory and then enjoy the fruits of your labor – this feeling is incomparable with anything in the world.
Is there something you regret?
Is it a secret, or will you tell? I regret that I have time and opportunities. We often go to Mexico with friends: we supply food, clothes, shoes for children. In cities with tourism, life is more or less good, but outside the city, there are not even basic conditions. And we distribute essential items to these poor people, bring gifts and sweets for holidays. The children don’t rush with the words “give me, give me,” but simply line up and wait their turn. And when they thank, it’s such sincerity! But no matter how much we bring, it’s not enough. I have a desire to help people and, above all, children not only in Mexico but around the world. I would like to create my foundation and support those in need. Not only those
who need food but also, for example, beginner athletes, students, gifted youth... I remember how difficult it was to buy even boxing gloves. Support is necessary in any field. I hope I can do it too.
Shukhrat, who played a decisive role in your life?
Of course, first of all, it’s my beloved mother, Khamrakulova Makhira. A simple school teacher of Russian language and literature. She tirelessly supported me, helped, and always said: “Shukhrat, whatever you do in life – do only good.” I also want to thank my brilliant trainers who were particularly significant to me: Ravil Jumatayev, Rahim Mirashilov, Misha Makhkamov, Sardor Tashkhojaev, Batyr Zakirov, Boris Brezhnev from Los Angeles. And I consider the talented director and operator Bakhodir Yuldashev my mentor in the art world.
BEST OF CITRUS HEIGHTS
The 19th Annual The Best of Citrus Heights, organized by the Citrus Heights Chamber of Commerce under the leadership of Sheri Merrick, brought together local business representatives to celebrate achievements in over 40 categories. Guests enjoyed a lively evening filled with BBQ, music, and a fun Western-themed atmosphere, all while honoring the outstanding successes of their peers.
Russian American Media proudly served as the media sponsor of the event, capturing the brightest moments of the celebration. The awards ceremony highlighted the Chamber’s crucial role in supporting and developing local businesses.
Today in the USA, thanks to a unique online service, you can pass a vehicle inspection without leaving your home. Vitaliy Boridko, the founder of INSVE.COM, told us how to save time and money and get a technical inspection certificate in just a few minutes.
Vitaliy, what is an online inspection, and who needs it? – It is an innovative service for Uber, Lyft drivers, and car rental companies.
To get a job in a taxi, you need to pass a complete vehicle inspection, and if you already provide such services, you must confirm annually that your car is technically safe for passenger transport. The second part of our service is technical inspections for cars rented out, for example, on car-sharing platforms. Vehicle inspections must also be conducted both when first renting out a car and annually thereafter. In other words, you cannot drive/work if the vehicle has not passed the mandatory inspection.
Previously, Uber had hubs where you could go and get this done for free. Then, due to optimization, which I assume started during Covid, Uber closed half of the sites. As a result, the alternative for people was to go to a car service center. Besides the fact that this service costs about $40, depending on the day of the week, you need to spend from three hours to half a day. Against this background, the idea came up to simplify this process somehow—it could be done online. The car does not need to be lifted on a lift, have its exhaust checked, etc.
So, your service is entirely online?
Yes, we accept materials online, but we do not allow uploading videos from memory to limit those who might try to provide old photos when the car was in better condition. A visual inspection allows us to conclude that your car has working seat belts, that the seats in the cabin move back and forth as needed, the doors open and close, there are no physical damages, and the headlights, turn signals, and wipers work.
What devices are needed to visualize the vehicle?
You only need a phone with a camera; you can do this near your home. We need six photos from specific angles and three short videos. The entire process takes a maximum of 10-15 minutes. This allows us to conclude the condition of the vehicle. After analyzing the photos and videos, if our mechanic sees that the car meets technical safety standards, we issue a certificate that is licensed and accepted by the services.
In other words, a smartphone with a camera and internet
access is all you need to get a certificate without an appointment, at any time, and in a convenient location. If I rent a car and want to do a more in-depth analysis, can I contact you?
An in-depth analysis for rental or, for example, a presale technical diagnosis is technically challenging to do remotely; the inspection must be offline. Our mechanics do travel and perform such inspections, but that is a different process.
Do you only operate in California?
We are licensed to work in 44 states across America. There are six states that are “conditionally wavering.” For example, Illinois, because part of the state requires a state inspection, while our license is acceptable in another part. In some states, only state companies can provide this service.
From which states do you have clients?
Most of them are from California. I am personally involved in the car rental business, and it seems that through word of mouth, good news spread in the Russian-Ukrainianspeaking community—70% of our clients, as well as many people who came to America from Central Asia. Although yesterday we had clients from Chicago and Idaho. Our website is in four languages—English, Russian, Spanish, and Chinese, and that is currently enough to provide services.
How long have you been on the market?
We received our license almost a year ago, and the first clients came in January. We have been actively growing for four months.
Do you have many competitors?
We have competitors online. But we have an advantage over them in that they work through Zoom with live video, which takes 20-25 minutes, requires a different technique, and needs an appointment for an available mechanic. The process can also be complicated by poor connection quality, for example, if the image is “pixelated.” Moreover, it is more expensive than ours. This is understandable since one of our mechanics can perform hundreds of inspections, while their process requires a person on the other end of the line analyzing what the driver records in real-time. The hourly wage of such a person in California is not cheap. With us, the client uploads photos and videos at a convenient time and is not tied to an available mechanic.
Let’s talk about the price.
Our price is fixed. It’s $24 for one certificate for one company. Or, if a person is applying to both Uber and Lyft, we give a discount—$39 for both companies. Two certificates for one car, as the companies require slightly different information.
How long does it take to get the result?
We commit to doing this within 4 hours, depending on the mechanic’s workload. But in 99% of cases, we provide service within half an hour from the time the video is uploaded to receiving the certificate, which the
client prints out or uploads depending on the company’s requirements. You receive fully legal certificates issued by a licensed company.
Do all vehicles pass the certification?
Of course not. Some people think that because the service is online, we don’t care about the car’s condition. The California Bureau of Automotive Repair requires a license for a reason; this is our responsibility. But we offer a free reinspection. If your car did not pass the inspection, but you followed our mechanic’s advice and fixed everything, you can get the certificate without additional payment. But if, for example, a driver thinks it’s okay to carry a client with a broken headlight and doesn’t want to fix it, or doesn’t see the need to replace a windshield with a crack over 1.5 mm, they will not get the certificate.
If I still have questions, can I call and discuss them?
Our support works 24/7, you can call and ask any questions regarding the vehicle inspection or write an email. All information is available on our website.
Are there any promotions that help save more, besides the two certificates at a lower price?
Anyone who passes the vehicle inspection receives a 20% discount on the second inspection. If you “bring a friend”, both of you get a $5 discount.
by Aziza Soatova
TRIBUTE TO TRADITIONS
Thanks to the strict preservation of authentic Uzbek culinary traditions, beloved dishes have reached us in their almost unchanged, original form. For example, ancient Uzbek recipes for lagman, manty, and pilaf. Who knows what we would be eating instead today if the Uzbek people had not been principled in defending their culinary identity. Uzbek cuisine is unique and original, and some cooking secrets of certain national dishes are known only to the indigenous inhabitants. They are strictly kept secret and passed down through generations. Distinctive features: richness, lack of side dishes, and mild spiciness. In Uzbekistan, food is very high in calories. Recipes actively use lamb fat and cottonseed oil. Another distinctive feature is the abundance of spices. However, Uzbek cuisine cannot be called particularly spicy or hot, as the large number of herbs and spices is just a fact. If you enjoy interesting combinations of aromatic spices and herbs in your food, this cuisine will appeal to you: the food here is characterized by a rich variety of tastes, smells, and their nuances.
Uzbek people have been guarding their culinary traditions against external influences for centuries. This nation has strived to preserve the authenticity of recipes and prevent them from being influenced by other ethnic groups. Even common Asian dishes like pilaf, manty, kebabs, and soups have a purely Uzbek way of preparation – they are fried in cauldrons, baked on coals, and in tandirs. Uzbek cuisine is unique and attractive. What are its features and why is a good Uzbek restaurant like “Caravan” always favored by gourmets? Let’s find out below.
SECRET INGREDIENTS
Interestingly, you will hardly find mushrooms in Uzbek dishes. Pork is prohibited for religious reasons. However, this cuisine is rich in a vast number of recipes with lamb, beef, and chicken. Be sure to try kebabs with these types of meat when you get the chance – they are very tasty. Sour milk (katyk) and green radish are also popular. Many people are struck by another feature of the Uzbek culinary tradition: side dishes as a separate concept and category of dishes do not exist here. Grains, cereals, and vegetables are never served separately – they are always part of meat dishes. For example, almost any Uzbek soup recipe invariably includes grain. As for onions, Uzbeks add them literally to all meat dishes. Moreover, they don’t skimp on onions – there is either as much or two to three times more onions than meat in meat dishes. In kebabs, there can never be too much onion. And if you want meat cooked over fire according to traditional Uzbek recipes, order kebabs from us. You will find out what real Uzbek kebabs are and why Caravan restaurants are so popular in the city.
Caravan Uzbek Cuisine has achieved remarkable success in just one year of operation. Garnering numerous awards, it has been officially recognized by government representatives as the best Uzbek restaurant in the California. This honor reflects their commitment to authentic cuisine and exceptional service, making them a standout in the community.
TEA IS EVERYTHING
There are countries where coffee is more popular. In Uzbekistan, the main drink is tea. It is considered that hosts are glad to see guests if they invite them for tea. In addition to tea, compotes made from dried and fresh fruits are also popular.
INTERESTING FACTS
Uzbek cuisine is the most famous and in-demand among other Central Asian cuisines. Many national Uzbek dishes are widely known and loved far beyond this small country’s borders. Take, for example, pilaf and manty. The main Uzbek dish, and probably the most popular one, is pilaf. There is a legend that attributes the recipe’s authorship to Tamerlane. In Uzbekistan, cooking pilaf is traditionally a male occupation. There are more than 100 recipes for Uzbek pilaf (some say there are about 1,200). Each city has its own traditions of preparing this dish. It is difficult to give precedence to any one: Samarkand, Tashkent, Fergana, or Bukhara. What can I say, pilaf is loved here like nowhere else in the world. It is considered the national dish of Uzbekistan. If this makes you crave shawarma as well, don’t hold back: we will prepare it quickly too, we promise. Despite the steady process of urbanization in Uzbek society, traditional cooking methods in cauldrons and tandirs are still widely used in villages. Uzbek cuisine includes many soups and liquid dishes collectively called shurpa. At the same time, there are very few salads; recipes for such appetizers can be literally counted on fingers.
GEOGRAPHIC AND SEASONAL NUANCES
As in all other national cuisines, there are culinary features in different regions of Uzbekistan. For example, in the north of the country, more pilaf, fried meat, and various dough products are cooked, while in the south, housewives often cook dishes with a long list of ingredients, including vegetables and rice. There are many seasonal dishes:
In spring, chuchvara and samsa with greens, dolma with grape leaves, mash and rice soup are prepared;
In summer - kebabs with tomatoes, lagman, stuffed peppers, dolma, dimlama - cold soup with sour milk and greens (analogous to our okroshka), steamed kebab, stewed meat, and vegetables;
In autumn, fried meat, classic kebab, quail soup, manty, and pilaf prevail;
In winter, pilaf, kebab, and soups are at the head of the table.
MANTY
Manty are a traditional Central Asian dish, featuring finely chopped beef mixed with onions, wrapped in thinly rolled dough, and steamed to perfection in a special steam pot. Each bite brings a perfect balance of the succulent meat filling, seasoned simply with salt and pepper, and the thin dough that wraps it. Traditionally served with sour cream, yogurt, or a tangy tomato-based sauce, manty can be customized with various spices and herbs to suit individual tastes.
KEBABS
Traditional kebabs in Uzbekistan are made from the meat of a young lamb, marinated in spices. Pieces of meat are skewered along with lamb fat. The kebabs are soaked in water, preparing the right marinade based on onions and spices. In restaurants, you can also try other versions of meat dishes: Minced meat kebab – kiyma kebab; Beef kebab – chunk; Chicken kebab – chunk.
COOKING METHODS
Uzbeks use many methods of processing products. Most often, it is frying. Food is fried in fat in cauldrons, on a grill, or in a tandir. This is how meat, vegetables, and flour products are prepared. Food is boiled in water, milk, or steamed (for this, a special pot called kasan is used). Uzbek soups are prepared interestingly. In addition to the usual onions and carrots, Uzbeks add pumpkin or turnips to the water, often adding mung beans (small beans) to them. Also, a distinctive feature of Uzbek soups is that all ingredients are first fried before boiling. Thanks to this feature, they turn out to be hearty and very rich. In short, Uzbek cuisine is a wealth of hearty aromatic dishes with meat, thick rich soups based on fresh vegetables and herbs, original pastries, and a whole collection of exotic sweets. In addition to over a hundred types of pilaf, this people has about 60 types of soups and 30 types of kebabs. This cuisine deserves attention, be sure to try national Uzbek dishes when you get the chance – you won’t regret it! Farhod and Aziza are waiting for you at “Caravan.”
LAGMAN
Lagman is meat, vegetables, and long noodles. In our restaurant, it is not cut but pulled by hand. At first glance, hearty and tasty lagman soup is extremely simple. Meat, chuzma noodles (from the Uzbek “chuzmok,” meaning “to pull”), handmade, spices, vegetables – nothing extra and unusual. Uzbek cuisine is thousands of years of history and tradition during which Uzbeks built cities, engaged in sciences, traded with the whole world, sowed grains, planted fruit gardens, vegetables, and raised livestock. Uzbeks have preserved their culinary traditions and culture of their ancestors, while interactions with neighboring peoples have influenced the diversity and richness of their cuisine.
Non-bread is known for its crispy golden crust, soft dough, and the light piquancy imparted by sesame seeds. This traditional Uzbek lepeshka has been passed down through generations, preserving its original recipe for centuries. Round like the sun, non-bread symbolizes warmth, life, and nourishment, offering both satiety and strength to those who enjoy it.
Baked in traditional clay ovens, this bread cherished cultural symbol in Uzbekistan. It is often served during family gatherings, celebrations, and holidays, bringing people together with its simple yet profound taste. Its golden round shape is a reminder of the sun’s life-giving power, and for many, enjoying a fresh lepeshka brings not only physical nourishment but also a sense of connection to the rich heritage of Uzbek culture.
Uzbeks serve sweets with tea and before main dishes. They are placed in beautiful bowls and set on the table in choykhanas. The most popular ones are: Dried fruits: dried apricots, raisins, halva, baklava, honey; Navat – caramelized sugar; Parvarda – caramel pillows with flour sprinkling; Pashmak – sweet flour threads.
SUNNY NON-BREAD (LEPESHKA)
UZBEK SWEETS FOR TEA
“This was the darkest night of my life. My hair stood on end,”
By Tatyana Shaginyan
SAID RETIRED DETECTIVE VITALIY PROKOPCHUK, ABOUT HIS CYCLING ADVENTURES.
Overcoming 200 miles in 16 hours, cycling across more than half of the states, traveling through Mexico, Canada, camping in the desert with wild animals, crossing the Mississippi, and surviving many adventures was accomplished by Vitaliy Prokopchuk. But this unique individual also spent a long time as an officer with the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Department, investigating homicides. We talked to Vitaliy about his fascinating hobby, which helped him recover after difficult days.
Vitaliy, are you still working in law enforcement?
How many years did you dedicate to the police profession?
I served in the police for 25 years, retired, but then returned to work a bit. I’m only 50 now. I spent the last eight years in the homicide department. I have over 300 investigations behind me. The work was quite tough, I’ll tell you.
Is that where your love for travel and nature came from?
Yes. So much stress and negativity accumulates due to the nature of the job that when I go on a cycling trip, I change physically, emotionally, and spiritually, becoming a different person.
Did you really cycle around the world a couple of times?
Even more. On the sports bike that I constantly ride, I have more than 60,000 miles. That’s almost two and a half times around the world. But these are regular trips – to the store, to work... And another almost 10,000 miles on a touring bike, those are serious trips. But that’s over 20 years.
How did it all start? Why did this mode of transport attract you so much?
It all started when my car broke down. I needed to go to the store for parts, which seemed close by. But it seemed close by car, and on foot, it was much longer and farther than I had anticipated. Near the parts store was a Walmart. I was earning well at the time and decided to buy a bike. And while riding home, I remembered my childhood. It felt so good that I thought, why not start cycling? And the more I rode, the more it captivated me.
And is that bike always with you now?
No, it was cheap; when I bought it, I didn’t understand much. Then I realized I wanted a good one. I spent about a thousand dollars and bought myself a sports, somewhat professional bike. When I sat on it, it was like a fairy tale after the heavy, rough Walmart bike. I enjoyed riding it so much that the distances became longer and the speed increased. I got hooked. My physical shape improved, and my mood lifted. Then I found out that in all states, including California, there are 100-mile rides. Even for a specialist, 160 kilometers is quite a distance, so I started preparing and riding 20, 30, 40 miles. Statistically, I knew that if a person constantly rides a certain distance, their body can withstand about three times more.
What did you feel after the first ride?
It was in California, in the town of Paradise, where there were quite good climbs. After the ride, I was so exhausted that I didn’t want to do anything. But when I got home, I had the feeling that I had
achieved something. After that, I started participating in these rides more and more throughout California, even further, in Oregon. For example, I rode around Lake Tahoe, around Crater Lake, which is the deepest lake in the States. I could take the train from Sacramento to San Francisco and return by bike in a day.
But you didn’t stop there?
Yes, in California, there’s something called a triple crown, for those who want to ride 200 miles in one go. 100 miles is more or less for amateurs; there’s plenty of time. But 200 miles are for “hardened” amateurs.
The conditions are tougher, you have to finish in 16 hours. You start at 4 AM and must finish by 10 PM. It’s organized; they track you, record you. And usually, there are mountain passes in these trips. Difficult sections.
To achieve this triple crown, you need to ride three 200-mile trips in a year in California. I did it in six weeks and met the standard. By the way, I made a friend there, an American named John. We did these two-hundreds together, helping each other out in difficult situations.
Was there anything you didn’t like about the two-hundred milers? Where did the idea of long-distance travel come from?
In the two-hundred milers, first, you get very tired, second, you start at 4 AM and finish at 10 PM. You ride for a good 4-5 hours in the dark with a flashlight, seeing nothing. Around you, people are riding with similar flashlights. When I ride a bike, I want to see the space around me. I realized that I could ride such distances myself, plus you can save money since you have to pay the organizers for these rides. I got the idea to start bike touring. I assembled a bike for myself and started riding 50-60 miles from Sacramento. We did this with friends. Once or twice a month on weekends, we would go to a lake and stay overnight. When we explored all the surroundings, I wanted to go on a longer journey.
How did you balance trips with such a tough job?
I had 2-3 weeks of vacation a year. I decided to ride across America. The plan was to mark a city about 1200 miles away and fit the trip into two weeks. The next year, during my vacation, I would return by bus, train, or plane to where I finished and continue from there. The dream was to explore from ocean to ocean.
Which of your tours do you remember the most?
The first one. With my partner Mike, we decided to ride to Salt Lake City. Our route went through a pass with steep climbs and harsh weather. We really hit a blizzard. The road was difficult and dangerous. But
we made it to Nevada. We spent the night near Carson City. The next day, my partner had bike problems. We agreed to ride the mountains at our own pace and wait for each other. He was delayed, and it turned out that some gear was broken. We managed to fix his bike and continued. We stopped for the night in a park with tents. While setting up, I decided to help my friend. When I pulled some things out of one of his bags, I found bike parts that were supposedly broken. I realized it smelled like sabotage. In the morning, he told me it was too hard for him, his wife would come for him, and I could either go with them or continue alone.
Did you decide to ride through one of America’s toughest deserts without a companion?
I had taken time off and prepared for this. The first day, I was very nervous. No one around, water difficulties, no phone signal, towns 150 miles apart, plus wild animals: mountain lions, pumas, and bears.
Near Austin, there’s a cave with petroglyphs. I camped there for the night. It was the darkest night of my life. No stars, everything covered in fog. I tried to touch my nose and couldn’t see my hand. It was scary because I understood I was alone, and every rustle made my hair stand on end. I didn’t sleep but passed out towards morning. The next day, when I got back on the road, I felt such confidence! I realized I was capable of a lot.
In 12 days, I covered about 1200 miles. Even for cyclists on regular sports bikes, these are serious distances. And I was loaded and riding 100-110 miles daily.
Did you achieve your dream of riding coast to coast in a few years?
It took four years, four major segments. First: from San Francisco to Salt Lake City. Second: Salt Lake City to Omaha (Nebraska), then Omaha to Buffalo (New York). Then to Maine. I covered about 4800 miles in total.
Did you stay in touch with Mike?
We are still friends. Because after he got home, he was constantly on the phone, finding interesting places for me, arranging hotels, helping remotely.
What were the most unforgettable experiences?
The most enormous impressions were Niagara Falls, crossing the MississippI River. When I was a kid, I read books about Tom Sawyer, Huckleberry Finn, or “The Deerslayer” by James Fenimore Cooper. I imagined all this in my head. And now I was in the places of my favorite book characters. And the people were so kind, open, with true humanity inside. I didn’t have a single conflict on the entire journey. Next were Canada and Mexico?
I had a plan to ride along the ocean from Canada to Mexico. But it was boring alone. I decided to invite John, who rode with me on the two-hundred milers. Since then, John has been my constant companion.
Vitaliy, do you have any traditions or signs that developed during your travels? Like a black cat crossing the road, running out of water?
I’m anti-superstitious by nature. But what developed over the years is the ability to read the weather; you could say I’m an expert.
Does your family: wife, children – want to travel with you?
They are not interested at all. They are just proud of me. Did you ever want to write a book about your adventures?
I initially thought about keeping a journal. But then I gave up on that idea. It took time from my enjoyment. You sit by a lake, for example, and relax. But then you have to pull something out and write. I have photos, videos. But they don’t convey the impressions, the feelings that real mountains, a real lake, a real cold river, or heat evoke. It’s impossible to convey. So travel and enjoy.
