Breaking Bread, Building Bonds: Uniting Hearts and Lives
In a city as diverse as New York, fostering understanding and connection is both a challenge and a necessity. On March 12, 2025, an inspiring gathering at Coney Island Village, led by Leonora Bulycheva, President of Aelita Club, served as a powerful testament to the unifying power of community. These gatherings, initiated in 2023 by New York City Mayor Eric Adams, continue to resonate deeply, offering warmth, dialogue, and inclusivity.
But what lies behind the phrase Breaking Bread, Building Bonds? At its core, it signifies more than just sharing a meal—it embodies a timeless tradition found in every culture, symbolizing peace, trust, and unity. Historically, communal dining has broken down barriers of nationality, faith, and ideology, fostering a sense of belonging among those who partake.
Mayor Adams’ citywide initiative seeks to promote understanding, combat bias, and bridge cultural divides. Spearheaded by the Office for the Prevention of Hate Crimes and the Mayor’s Community Affairs Unit, the program has hosted numerous gatherings across the five boroughs since its inception. These events have drawn participants from all walks of life—students, retirees, entrepreneurs, and artists—who come together to share their stories, challenges, and aspirations. Despite their differences, all are united by their love for this great metropolis.
The recent event at Coney Island Village, hosted by Eli Abramov, provided a welcoming space for attendees to introduce themselves, discuss their businesses, and engage in meaningful dialogue. The atmosphere was intimate and engaging, fostering heartfelt discussions on pressing issues such as affordable housing, inflation, public safety, and employment opportunities. As New York’s middle class grapples with rising costs and economic uncertainty, these conversations have never been more relevant.
Social concerns also took center stage, with attendees expressing both criticism and appreciation for policymakers. While political discourse often divides, many acknowledged the tangible support they have received from city representatives. Encouraging words came from Presiden Brooklyn New Wave Civic Coalition Svetlana Zelinskaya, who reassured attendees that concerns over the potential discontinuation of Medicaid and Medicare programs were largely unfounded. The White House has affirmed its commitment to supporting low-income communities, the elderly, and veterans, ensuring continued access to healthcare and essential services ( SNAP ).
The gathering drew a remarkable group of individuals dedicated to the city’s well-being. Among them was a manager from NYCHA Family Partnership in Brooklyn, who has spent two decades assisting thousands of seniors and New Yorkers with disabilities. Also present was Director of Professional Training and Strategic Community Partnerships at Kingsborough Community College Anna Geller, an accomplished singer known for her renditions of the American national anthem and a mentor to countless young immigrants striving for education and employment.
Another notable guest, Svetlana Negrimovskaya, director of the Sheepshead Bay Library, has transformed her institution into a vibrant cultural hub, hosting art exhibitions, concerts, and community events. Under her leadership, the library has become a place where children not only discover the joy of reading but also explore creative pursuits such as filmmaking, dance, and music. Her dedication has left a lasting impact on many.
The evening culminated in a breathtaking musical performance by violin virtuoso Achtan Faziev, adding a touch of elegance and inspiration to an already remarkable event. Also in attendance were prominent female leaders Karina Polonskaya and Ilana Kozak, who, alongside Leonora Bulycheva, will represent the American Forum for Israel at the upcoming World Congress in Israel this October. Other distinguished guests included Gregory Kirsopp, Nanda Misir, and David Sepiashvili, among others.
The meticulous planning and dedication of Aelita Club deserve special recognition. These gatherings serve as a powerful reminder that beyond exchanging ideas, they help forge lasting connections and offer much-needed solidarity in an ever-changing world.
To all the organizers and participants, thank you for an evening filled with sincerity, insight, and camaraderie. In a city as dynamic as ours, such moments of unity are invaluable.
By: Marina Lagunova , Brooklyn Free Speech TV503.com and Midtown Tribune
NETWORKING EVENING BY AELITA CLUB
Opprtunity to meet:
- Representatives of Southern Brooklyn elected officials
- Local Businesses
- Community Leaders
Village Cafe
1968 Coney Island Aveniue Brooklyn, New York
P.S. At the opening of the meeting, the anthem was performed by Anna Geller . Anna works as the Director of Professional Training and Strategic Community Partnerships at Kingsborough Community College.
Anna announced that on May 31, 2025 at 7 pm at the Oceana Theatre, she invites everyone to attend the traditional American Russian-language KVN “Club of the Funny and Inventive [people]” .
Svetlana Zelenskaya Republican District 46 leader: Trump is not going to take away or reduce free health insurance – Medicaid and is not going to reduce or take away food stamps for legal residents of the United States.
Video : Greetings from the Office of the New York State Assembly Member Michael Novakhov – Assembly District 45
1800 Sheepshead Bay Road Brooklyn, NY 11235
ph. 718-743-4078 District Office
Office Hours Monday – 10PM-4PM
Tuesday – 10AM-5PM
Wednesday – 10AM-5PM
Video by: PromotionNY.com
OCEANA THEATER Brooklyn New York
( 1029 Brighton Beach Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11235)
31 мая 2025 года 7 часов вечера
БEHEФИC КВН NYU ( Университета Нью-Йорка )
заказать 6илeты можно по телефону 646-715-4323 4323′
Выступление на русском языке