RTVI US: 25 years of trust, truth, and TV pleasure

RTVI US: 25 years of trust, truth, and TV pleasure
Russian-language television in America has celebrated a quarter-century alongside its viewers. Of course, that's long enough to raise children, transform cities, and change lives. But some values remain unchanged. For 25 years, RTVI US has been giving Russian-speaking America the opportunity to hear the latest news, feel supported, and remain part of a large, vibrant, and warm community.
This is television in our native language, the one we don't forget even after leaving our native land, the one that preserves memories, warms our souls, and gives us confidence when it's so important to hear something familiar. When you're tired and don't feel like searching for the right words, you return to the language of your childhood. An accent ceases to be a barrier, and the news becomes a support and a link to home.
"We'll always be there. We keep the line open, speak two languages, and remain by your side," emphasized Mikhail Romanovsky, COO of RTVI US.
Since 2000, the channel has united Russian-speaking audiences in the United States, remaining a model of independent journalism and open dialogue, inspiring and serving as a mirror of the multi-vocal life in America.
Today RTVI US is:
• TV channel;
• dynamic news site;
• popular YouTube platforms;
• modern digital services.
Both the first generation of emigrants and young people who grew up in America find their place here.
Over the past 25 years, I have witnessed and written about many of RTVI US's triumphs.
I sincerely admired fearless journalists, especially during the pandemic: I worried about the screen and prayed for the courageous Lisa Kaimin and George Tsikhiseli as they worked on the front lines, broadcasting from a hospital set up in Manhattan's Central Park.
The New York State Assembly presented Lisa Kaimin with awards for her 20 years of service to RTVI US, dedication to the profession, and significant contributions to the development of journalism. Her high editorial standards, ability to speak to the audience in a common language, and participation in daily broadcasts have been a key source of trust and have strengthened the channel's connection with the community.
The anniversary evening in the heart of Manhattan was a celebration of creativity and recognition, a glittering gala featuring graceful ballerinas, regal TSAR CAVIAR black caviar from general sponsor Oleg Sanzyapov, exquisite appetizers, wine, gifts, a raffle, and an awards ceremony.
Government officials arrived to congratulate RTVI US:
• New York State Senator Stephen T. Chan;
• New York State Assembly members Alec Brooke-Krasny and David I. Weprin;
• New York City Council members Inna Vernikov and Susan Zhuang;
• Brooklyn County Republican Party Chairman Liam McCabe;
• Brooklyn County Conservative Party Chair Francis Vella-Marrone;
• Vice-Chair of the Brooklyn District Republican Party Svetlana Zelinskaya and other invited representatives of government, business and public sectors.
The gala evening was a striking confirmation of RTVI US's role in the Russian-speaking diaspora in the United States and its role as a key player in multicultural dialogue. The company's contributions to independent journalism and community life were recognized with a number of official awards and recognitions.
1. Proclamation of the New York State Senate from Senator Stephen T. Chan - for outstanding coverage of the life of the Russian-speaking community in the United States, commitment to professional standards and the development of intercultural dialogue.
2. Certificates of Honor from the New York State Assembly from Assemblymen Alec Brook-Krasny, David I. Weprin, William Colton, and Mikhail Novakhov – for RTVI US’s long-standing contribution to the New York City information ecosystem, quality journalism, and community service; for advancing diversity and civic participation.
3. Certificates of Honor from the New York City Council from Council members Justin Brannan, Inna Vernikov, and Susan Zhuang – for "25 years of creative excellence," significant contribution to the city's information agenda, and support of the New York community.
RTVI US is an independent voice that is clearly heard.
Mikhail Romanovsky noted that RTVI US has once again entered the White House press pool, covering important international events from Alaska to London.
The event brought together leaders of Russian America: business entrepreneurs, artists, and public figures—people who make our community vibrant, active, and inspired.
Among the guests were:
• Ruslan Gladkovitser with his brilliant wife, singer Svetlana;
• CEO of NetCost Market Edward Schneider with his wife;
• NetCost Market representative Yana Mosina;
• businessmen Alla and Dmitry Lisovetsky;
• actress Zeyna Gagne;
• model and public figure Irina Dmitrakova and others.
Special thanks were extended to the "American Stories" program, a project featuring vivid interviews and heartfelt stories.
Many people came up to me and said that they saw my interview, quoting my words: “Always learn and don’t be afraid to speak English!”
I would like to thank RTVI US News Director Georgiy Tsikhiseli for the invitation and for the RusRek media holding's certificate of honor, which was ceremoniously presented to radio editor Tanya Rubis.
Marina Lagunova