Vladimir Smolkov
Well over a decade ago, some Pennington citizens embarked on a endeavor, known as the "Pairing Project." This effort was aimed at becoming conversant with a Russian community something like Pennington.
Local citizens waited quite a while, but the effort finally bore fruit when the mayor of the town, Pervomaisky, finally made contact.
Later, through an organization known as Bridges for Peace, this mayor, the editor (who corresponded with the HVN) of a small, struggling Russian weekly newspaper, and others visited our community.
Thanks to Pearl Feldmesser of Hopewell Township who, along with her now late husband, Robert Feldmesser, was involved in Bridges for Peace the mayor’s recent letter to the HVN has been edited and appears below:
To the editor:
In the spring of 1993, I, Vladimir (Volodya) Smolkov, visited your nice city. I remember the trip very well, especially the kindness of the people in Hopewell and Pennington. I went home with very pleasant memories which I have shared with my friends and co-workers in my town of Pervomaisky. In my small town America is still such an exotic place.
There were many people who made my trip memorable: the Feldmessers who took me in and made me feel like a member of their family; the Thurmans, who showed me what American family life was really like. Unfortunately both Bob Feldmesser and Beverly Thurman are gone now. Through e-mail I still keep in touch with Pearl Feldmesser and some of my other friends.
I want also to thank other members of the exchange group, Bridges for Peace, who also made my trip such a pleasure including the Dutkos and Addors. The clergy also made me welcome. I know that I still owe Joe Dutko three dollars and over the nine years, that must have added a lot of interest. I’m sorry, Joe, that it has been impossible for me to get the money to you. Perhaps some day.
Through Bob Feldmesser I made the acquaintance of Larry Mansier and his wife, Madelyn, who correspond with a family who live in my town, the Popovs. Mr. Mansier helped Alexander Popov in many ways when Mr. Popov, who is physically handicapped, has run into difficulties. Mr. Popov and his family will never forget the kindness of the Mansiers.
My job as a vocational training teacher brings me into contact with many Russian students, and I tell them the story of my visit to Hopewell Valley and how caring the people were.
Conditions have improved here, and I look forward to better times.
Faithfully, Vladimir Smolkov
