On the morning of Tuesday, August 19, 2025, the streets of Northeast Queens came alive with energy, collaboration, and community pride. From 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, Assemblywoman Nily Rozic, in partnership with the Queens Chamber of Commerce, led a dynamic business walkthrough, beginning at the rooftop of Ruben Davidoff Law Office and continuing along Union Turnpike toward Utopia Parkway. The event was organized by Diana Rachnaev, Community Outreach Coordinator for Assemblywoman Rozic, whose vision and leadership ensured a seamless, engaging, and meaningful experience for all attendees.
A Rooftop Welcome with Vision and Heart
The day began atop the Davidoff Law office rooftop, a space thoughtfully designed by Alla Davidoff, whose blend of beauty and brains brought the new building’s layout to life. Attendees were greeted with a generous breakfast spread from Bagels & Co, fueling conversations and connections. The rooftop offered a perfect vantage point to celebrate the community and set the stage for an inspiring walkthrough. The atmosphere was further energized by DJ Alex Niyazov, a trending go-to for community events, whose music brought a festive and lively tone to the morning.
A Shared Vision for Local Business
Assemblywoman Rozic set the tone for the morning, affirming her commitment to the community:
«I believe in strengthening the partnership between government and our small business and non-profit community. I want to make sure we’re supporting them in every way we can—whether that’s reducing red tape, improving infrastructure, or investing in workforce. Together we can ensure our neighborhoods remain vibrant places to live, work, and grow.»
Supporting her vision, Tom Grech, President and CEO of the Queens Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the importance of giving visibility to local businesses:
«Being able to highlight the hard work and dedication of our local entrepreneurs is vital for strengthening our neighborhoods.»
Community Leaders Making an Impact
Several community advocates contributed to the success of the event, including Rafael Nektalov, Editor-in-Chief of the Bukharian Times, a well-known and highly respected voice amplifying local businesses and cultural heritage; Leo Jacobs, Esq., real estate attorney and community advocate supporting local businesses and civic engagement; Lyudmila Mierova, founder of the non-profit All About Kindness, promoting compassion in business and community; and Oksana Davydova, Esq., a lawyer who empowers youth and fosters entrepreneurship through her law practice and community work.
The editor-in-chief of The Bukharian Times, Rafael Nektalov, highly praised the event.
“I rediscovered Ruben Davidoff, a lawyer and public figure who gathered so many young colleagues and various specialists from the Queens Bukharian Jewish community,” he said. “This is our future, which is being shaped before our very eyes by such an experienced and creatively gifted person as he is. It was also a pleasure to see the president of our community’s lawyers association, Leo Jabobs, on this day, who, along with Ruben, is also doing great work in this area.”
He continued: “Nily Rozic, a member of the New York State Assembly, is an amazing woman who wears a sign for the liberation of Israeli hostages, and it is an honor for us to have such a representative in the State Assembly.”
He also thanked the organizer: “Special thanks on behalf of the community go to the young politician Diana Rachnaev, who is doing great work by introducing our community to politicians.”
Capturing the Spirit
Every moment of the event was expertly documented by Kaykov Media, a family-owned business deeply rooted in the Queens community for over three decades.
Roman and Boris, sons of the founder, highlighted the significance of the walkthrough and helped ensure that the stories of local businesses and their owners were captured for the broader community.
Michael Kaykov, a third-generation photographer, lent his expert eye to the day’s coverage, preserving the energy, interactions, and vibrant spirit of the event.
Engaging with Local Businesses
Following the rooftop gathering and community introductions, Assemblywoman Rozic and her team visited businesses along Union Turnpike, greeting owners, listening to their experiences, and discussing ways to support growth. From family-run eateries to innovative service providers, the diversity and resilience of these businesses were on full display.
The day concluded on a flavorful and fun note with Uncle Edik’s Pickles, who gave attendees a behind-the-scenes tour of his famous crunchy pickles. Guests marveled at his craftsmanship, tasting the perfectly seasoned cucumbers and witnessing the care, tradition, and pride that go into every jar—ending the morning on a high, flavorful note that left everyone smiling.
Erin Levi & Diana Rachnaev
Photos by author and Kaykov Media