On February 1, 2025, the renowned Odessa satirist Valeriy Isaakovich Khait passed away at the age of 85. 

His life was deeply intertwined with Odessa, culture, and humor.

He was a notable figure:
- serving as Vice President of the Worldwide Club of Odessans since 1990; 
- one of the founders of the Odessa humor tradition;
- editor-in-chief of the famous humor magazine «Fountain»;
- author and host of the show «Fountain Club» on the 1+1 channel; 
- captain of legendary KVN teams from Odessa; 
- recipient of numerous literary awards and compiler of publications celebrating Odessa humor; 
- initiator of the establishment of the Odessa International Literary Prize named after Isaac Babel and the erection of a monument to this outstanding writer.

The Odessa City Council expresses its heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the talented writer, whose memory will forever remain in the hearts of the people of Odessa.