Color fair!

Color fair!
Brighton hosted a fair, long-running and organized by the Brighton Residents' Association, led by Pat Singer. This year, the fair, which was held for the 49th time, attracted several thousand people, transforming part of Brighton into a kaleidoscope of color, music, smiles, encounters, and fond memories.
From the first steps through the fair, I saw representatives from Lifeway Kefir, and this encounter unexpectedly brought back a wave of memories. It's been over 14 years since New York City suffered the devastating effects of Hurricane Sandy. As a Brighton resident, I vividly remember seeing trucks with free food at the fair site after the devastating storm. One of them was from Lifeway Kefir, and next to it was an Alex Meat truck.
At the time, Mikhail Malinovsky, a company representative, was working in the kefir truck. And the Sherman siblings were standing by the Alex Meat truck, handing out free sausages. As Leonard Sherman told me, his father called him that morning and said, "Load the truck with groceries and take it to Brighton to give them to the people."
These unexpected encounters sometimes take us back in time. Seeing Lifeway Kefir today reminded me of Hurricane Sandy and how people helped each other. I never forget kindness.
It was also particularly gratifying to watch the fair's visitors eagerly sift through Russian-language newspapers. A line formed—compelling proof that the printed word isn't a thing of the past.
I met Boris Zaturansky, the general manager of the newspaper "Evening New York," who was handing out free newspapers. People were lining up for the papers, including "R. Reklama," almost as if they were waiting for hotcakes!
I also ran into a colleague of mine from the American newspaper, the Daily News. He was offering subscriptions to the newspaper, but unfortunately, many didn't understand him. He was born in New York City, to Ukrainian immigrants who came to America in 1902. And so, on a hot day, he came to Brighton with one goal: to ensure that newspapers continued to exist and find their readers.
As someone who loves paintings and antiques, I noticed the beautiful porcelain figurines among the African sellers. Apparently, over the years, the sellers have realized that Brighton is home to people who love beauty, appreciate it, and understand art.
At one of the tables, I met Natalia Travilina, head of the charity TraNa Relief, surrounded by women who had come to America because of the war. They were delighted with the extension of their TPS status until 2027. There was hope in their eyes, and in their conversations, gratitude for the opportunity to peacefully continue building their lives.
Unfortunately, I didn't see any delicious pirozhki today, but traditions are gradually taking on a new meaning. At NetCost Market, there was a large barrel of cool kvass, and passersby were enjoying this familiar drink from childhood.
I especially enjoyed the aromatic coffee I sampled at Sea Breeze Pharmacy/Health Is Wealth, a shop on the corner of Brighton 14th Street. It houses a pharmacy and a store with a wide selection of organic and natural products, as well as medical supplies, all under one roof. The salespeople are attentive and polite. Even on a noisy and hot market day, they managed to create a pleasant atmosphere.
Here I also met representatives of the Go Farm Club, who offer produce brought from the Amish. I enjoy buying eggs, milk, and other products from them.
I met Regina Shamilova, who now works for the insurance company Health First, and Anechka Malkina, a board member of the American Association of Disabled Veterans of World War II, who brought historical photographs of Brighton. The photos were taken by Arnold Malievsky, a journalist with the newspaper "R. Reklama."
As always, the district's political life was also evident at the fair. I met Assembly Member Alec Brook-Krasny, who is actively supported by the energetic and talented Svetlana Zelinskaya, the district leader, to whom many residents are grateful for her assistance and the opportunity to find temporary work during the elections.
I saw people approaching Assembly members Alek Brook-Krasny and Misha Novakhov, thanking them for their help, and taking photos with them. I met radio journalist Ruslan Shamal, who is running for Senate. One of his priorities is curbing property taxes and rising utility bills. As a father, he believes parents should have the right to choose a school for their children, one where they will truly learn to read, write, and acquire the necessary knowledge.
Ari Kagan, a senior adviser to Senator Steve Chen and well-known to many, also came to the fair. People remember his many good deeds and assistance.
It was a pleasure to meet Anechka Spilkovskaya, an active and energetic volunteer who is running for the Assembly.
For many residents of our district, the fair is not only a celebration but also a wonderful opportunity to meet with politicians, ask questions, receive advice, and share their concerns. I was especially pleased to meet Eduard Luchin, president of the Association of Sports Veterans and sports journalist. He is known as a great sports enthusiast, a person who actively promotes a healthy lifestyle and advocates for peace. But for me, Eduard is also a person who, by his personal example, demonstrates the importance of fighting for your life, not giving up, moving forward, and pursuing your goals. For me personally, he is in many ways an example of fortitude, courage, and zest for life.
At the fair, I also met strong and well-known lawyers: Tanya Segal, who does a lot for people and society, and Tanya Gendelman, who helps injured people receive compensation.
It was a pleasure to see Rabbi David Okunev, surrounded by his beautiful family. His work is well known in our neighborhood. Many know that near the synagogue on Brighton 4th Street, they distribute food to anyone in need, without asking questions of religion or nationality.
Rabbi David Okunev brought a shofar to the fair and blew it. Hearing the shofar blown is considered a good omen, so I wish everyone who heard it health, peace, prosperity, and good luck.
And of course, a special thank you to our police, who ensured order and safety and allowed thousands of people to peacefully enjoy this vibrant summer holiday.
Marina Lagunova