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

Valeriy Isaakovich's life was deeply intertwined with Odessa, literature, and humor.

He was a well-known figure who significantly impacted the cultural landscape of the city, being:
- the vice president of the World Club of Odessites since 1990; 
- one of the founders of the Odessa Humor Festival;
- the editor-in-chief of the humorous magazine "Fontan";
- the author and host of the television program "Fontan Club" on the 1+1 channel; 
- the captain of the legendary KVN teams from Odessa; 
- a laureate of literary awards and the editor of publications showcasing Odessa humor; 
- the initiator of the Odessa International Literary Prize named after Isaac Babel and the establishment of a monument to the writer.

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