Independence through the prism of tragedy and hope

33 years have passed since the declaration of independence of Ukraine. The American newspaper "R.Reklama" has been covering the festive events all these years, including at the government level.
The celebration of the 33rd anniversary of Ukraine's Independence is overshadowed. The terrible war takes lives, leaving many with severe wounds that cripple not only the body but also the soul. After the end of the war, which we all look forward to, the Ukrainian people will suffer from deep psychological trauma for a long time.
On August 25, a charity concert "The Power of Ukraine" was held in New York, dedicated to the 33rd anniversary of Ukraine's Independence, organized with the aim of raising funds for Ukrainian soldiers in need of prosthetics, as well as to unite Ukrainians who have been scattered by fate all over the world.
Many guests came to the concert in blue and yellow outfits, in embroidered shirts, expressing their patriotism in different ways, but equally sincerely. Assembly member Alec Brook-Krasny gave a solemn greeting, wishing Ukraine a speedy victory. American doctor Michael Fulmes, who provides charitable assistance to Ukrainians, was greeted with thunderous applause.
The US Ambassador for Human Rights, Head of the Department of Diplomatic Relations for G100 Negotiations, Dr. Sima Karetnaya, a native of Ukraine, spoke vividly and inspiringly. She emphasized that New York, as a city of refuge, opens its doors to refugees. Over the past two years, many refugees from Ukraine have arrived in New York, and the city has become a new home for talented people. Ukrainian culture is a bright and unforgettable kaleidoscope: melodic songs, fiery dances, applied art, a unique school of painting by Ukrainian masters.
“New York Mayor Eric Adams and Governor Kathy Hochul have approved the candidacy of Alina Grosu, which I proposed. Introducing a galaxy of outstanding diplomats, I want to note that I feel the support of Mayor Eric Adams, which is especially important for the Ukrainian refugees who have found shelter in this great city. Ukraine in 2024 will be represented by singer Alina Grosu, and I am confident that she will embody Ukrainian culture within the walls of the UN with honor and dignity.” - said Sima Karetnaya.
So, let's get back to the concert. The artists on stage won the hearts of the audience, immersing them in the melody and power of the Ukrainian language. The host Vasyl Chebonenko impressed the audience. An incredible resemblance, manners, speech, humor, the audience for a moment thought that the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky had come on stage. In an exclusive interview, I learned that he graduated from the Yaroslav Mudryi Law University in Kharkiv. He held an especially impressive auction, which included a painting of the Ukrainian flag, boxing gloves autographed by Vitali Klitschko, a violin, and Time magazine, where on the cover there was a photo of Volodymyr Zelensky - a man who bore colossal responsibility during the war. A special moment came when two Ukrainian soldiers, real heroes who received serious injuries to their lower limbs, brought in the flags of the USA and Ukraine. The anthems of both countries were played.
The concert featured a symphony orchestra and a children's choir, who sang praises to the heroes of Ukraine and brings its victory closer. Footage was shown of cadets from the American Military Academy West Point applauding the Ukrainian military. The concert featured Ukrainian singer Alina Grosu, who works in the dance music and pop-rock styles. She was born in Chernivtsi, Ukraine. She has been performing on the professional stage since the age of 4. She studied at the Kyiv Academy of Circus and Variety Arts, Department of Musical Arts, and at VGIK, Department of Acting, in Moscow. In the spring of 2023, she continued her professional education in the USA at the School of Acting in Hollywood, Los Angeles. The concert was attended by: Honored Artist of Ukraine singer Lyudmila Fesenko, Honored Artist of Ukraine, Kharkiv resident Victoria Vennikova, Dan Baturin, Vasily Bondarchuk, Alexander Krivoshapko, violinist Assia Ahhatt and others. However, the terrible war continues to take lives...
Marina Lagunova