Yuval David, Actor, Director & Filmmaker who seeks to entertain, uplift and inspire in all he does, will be this year’s MC of the Jewish Council of Public Affairs (JCPA) virtual benefit, held on December 8, 2020 at 7:00 p.m. The mission of JCPA is to support the Jewish community, from supporting the most vulnerable during the pandemic, to combatting antisemitism and hate, to leading the Jewish community during the most significant conversation on racism since the 1960s. JCPA is a network of 125 Jewish Community Relations Councils and 16 national Jewish agencies and is the only body that represents all four denominations of religious Judaism. Along with the help of their network, JCPA continues to advocate for a just and pluralistic society, supporting Israel’s quest for peace and security, through promoting global human rights.
In Hebrew, the word ‘Yuval’ represents a flowing course of water, such as a stream or brook, that helps feed larger bodies of water. Both end up integrated in the larger scheme of the cycle of water, while benefiting fully from the power and depth that the tributary, or ‘Yuval,’ generously brings along on the journey. This also describes Yuval, his Jewish and Israeli-American roots have inspired him to use his platform to support the work of many highly respected international Israeli and Jewish organizations.
Whether serving as the emcee for significant large-scale events, or as the go-to host, director, narrator and producer for incredible and moving short- and long-form video content and documentary features for many organizations, Yuval frequently contributes abundant resources and his talents to aforementioned causes near and dear to his heart within the Jewish community and beyond. In addition to the JCPA, Yuval works with the Israeli Consulate, the Shoah Foundation, the Jewish National Fund, Keren Kayemet, Stand With Us, A Wider Bridge, The Aguda, American Israel Cultural Foundation, Chabad, the Jewish Learning Institute and more. Yuval understands the larger social ecosystem of the world and how it benefits from the work and the uniquely powerful voice of an artist such as himself, and is committed each day to creating work that entertains, inspires and uplifts those around him and around the world.
The 2020 JCPA Virtual Benefit will review the work and impact of the Jewish Community during COVID-19 helping the Jewish community and most vulnerable. It will demonstrate the importance of the community relations field, examining the Tree of Life Synagogue response in Pittsburgh as a case study and discuss Jewish engagement in today’s reenergized civil rights movement.
Acclaimed New York content creator Yuval David will release his newest episode of the inventive and groundbreaking ‘One Actor Short,’ in mid-November, in which he unites narrative, documentary, and reality formats to create an unscripted episodic film.
Yuval’s unique approach to man-on-the-street filmmaking showcases his remarkable creativity. He steps into public areas and assembles a diverse cross-section of humanity – all of them strangers – casting them as actors in his film. He creates a safe space for them to be playful and spontaneous on camera.
“Representing diversity in my work happens naturally because I am representing the people who make up our society,” says Yuval. “I have a mission to entertain, uplift and inspire, which goes hand in hand with my mission to use art for social change, whether through inclusivity of underrepresented communities, or in the roles I portray or create for others.”
His latest episode, cheekily titled ‘The End of the World’ was filmed during the Coronavirus pandemic. Despite our new normal, Yuval continued to find strangers enthusiastic and willing to participate. He even found strangers to be more eager to safely interact and create alongside him and his team.
Yuval starts each production day with a blank slate, not knowing what kind of film will be created, the genre, storyline, or his actors. He directs his film crew and each immediately found cast member through improvised scenes, bringing new characters to life, and eventually creating a film on the spot as the storyline is woven together.
This radically innovative and bold series, which already includes three different short films, including a crime procedural drama, a romantic comedy, and a sports film – has quickly become an award winner and festival favorite.
I got an opportunity to ask Yuval a few questions about his interests and this project. I hope the conversation perks and soothes your curiosity as it did mine!
1. Do you have a number of episodes set to complete this project?
One Actor Short is a unique original concept, which I am developing into an ongoing series. I would be thrilled to create these across the US and internationally. I want to keep going with many more episodes.
3. What will you do when this project is over, or will it help you decide?
I continuously create content, and that is a lifelong goal of mine. With the “One Actor Short” film series, I created and designed it with the intention of continuing it for many more series. So, I am not sure when this project will be over. And I don’t really want it to be!
In the meantime, I continue to work on other projects and productions as an actor, host, and director. I enjoy juggling production schedules and consistently working and creating — I find it to be very stimulating.
4. How did you get the idea to create impromptu with strangers?
Improvisation has been part of my creative and performative process throughout my career. From performing with improv theatre groups, to creating guerrilla theatre productions, to acting on hidden camera shows on ABC. I have consistently been intrigued by ‘Guerrilla Theatre’ — creating a theatrical performance for an audience that does not expect to be an audience. I wanted to take it a step further, in a way I have not seen before, to create and perform with actors who never expected to be actors.
My previous web-series, which you can see on YouTube.com/YuvalDavid, often would use public spaces and engage with strangers, such as with my series “Pranks of Kindness” and “Public Improv Experiment.”
I want to turn the cameras and the microphones on people, proving that everyone deserves the spotlight, that everyone can shine, and that everyone should allow themselves to let loose, boldly embrace silliness, and express themselves. What a great opportunity to do so with “One Actor Short!”
5. What are some of your favorite reactions received from passerby witnessing a creation in progress?
Some of my favorite moments are when people are cautiously restrained when I first approach them; but, then, when I explain the concept of what I am doing, I delight to see them decide “why not?!” and allow themselves to step out of their comfort zone. Too many people are socialized away from being silly, playful, and spontaneous. The people who embrace the concept and have fun with it are so great to capture on camera, especially when they have some awkward trepidation at first. It makes it real, and can hopefully inspire others to allow themselves to be spontaneous, so that no matter what they do, they are ok!
6. When and where in your life did you become interested in film?
Since I was a child, I always wanted to be an actor. As my career flourished, I also would create content. That started out in theatre. But, I felt limited by having a limited audience. It was a natural progression to become a filmmaker — creating in a way that extends beyond the stage, and beyond that moment. At the same time, I was booking acting roles in film and television.
7. Would this project have started without the pandemic atmosphere?
“One Actor Short” is an existing series, with three episodes now publicly viewable – to watch, click here!
The series and my work in it has been receiving some great awards this year. So, I was not going to stop creating more episodes. I merely followed production guidelines for how to create and film during the pandemic. Also, filming this concept reveals a lot about society through the people who are out and about. It’s interesting to note that during the pandemic people have actually been more interested to participate! I believe that during this time people are finding the value of being playful and creative and truly just connecting! Continuing this experimental production in these times is a unique way to reveal those same things.
8. How many countries have received your work? Do they react differently?
“One Actor Short” has screened at over 60 national and international film festivals. And, it has won over 40 awards from Best Series, Best Experimental, Best Short Film, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Producer…. I am incredibly excited and honored. The festivals and audiences have regularly expressed that they want me to head to where they are to create episodes there, too. That would be awesome!
9. Why did you title the series One Actor Short?
I titled the series “One Actor Short,” as a play on words: I am one actor in each short film episode that starts out by being short one more actor.
Directed and produced by Yuval, ‘One Actor Short’ has been featured as an official selection and recognized as a winner in numerous international film festivals, including The Big Apple Film Festival, NYC Independent Film Festival, NewFilmmakers Film Festival, and Hollywood Just4Shorts film competition, Top Shorts Film Festival, Vegas CineFest International Film Festival, IndieFest, Accolade Global Film Festival, Best Shorts Film Festival, New York Film Awards, Kosice International Film Festival, and Prague International Film Festival, among many others.
Virtual Luncheon Focused on “The Value of Talk Therapy, Especially Now” Raises Funds for Critical Mental Health Research
(New York, NY – November 17, 2020) – On Wednesday, November 11th, the country’s leading non-profit dedicated to advanced depression research, Hope for Depression Research Foundation (HDRF), held its 14th annual HOPE luncheon seminar, virtually. This year’s event honored CBS Sunday Morning host Jane Pauley, and actress and entrepreneur Taraji P. Henson, who have both urged for more open national discussion about mental health. The seminar focused on “The Value of Talk Therapy, Especially Now” and addressed the staggering mental health impact of the global pandemic. It drew over 150 guests and raised $650,000 for life-saving research.
As the guests settled onto the Zoom platform, Master of Ceremonies, Chuck Scarborough began the event by stating that 100-million Americans have symptoms of clinical anxiety or depression in the wake of the pandemic, according to a recent Census Bureau survey. He pointed to the need for solutions and stated, “This year’s survey results are not a new problem, but a deepening of existing trends.”
Chuck Scarborough
The keynote speaker, Dr. Robert J. DeRubeis, Ph.D., Professor of Psychology at the University of Pennsylvania, gave guests an overview of cognitive behavioral therapy and its effectiveness in treating depression and anxiety.
Dr. Robert J. DeRubies, PH.D.
The event also highlighted HDRF’s first ever clinical trial to test a brand new category of antidepressant. The two-year trial was launched this fall at Columbia University and Mount Sinai Medical Center.
HDRF Executive Director Louisa Benton took the virtual podium and guided guests through a recap of what HDRF has done to pivot and engage meaningfully with constituents during the pandemic, including interactive meditation sessions and the virtual 5K Race of Hope in August, which raised $200,000 for depression research.
“We’ve all heard about a race for a vaccine,” said Dr. Jonathan Javitch of Columbia University, who gave the update as a member of HDRF’s acclaimed Depression task Force. “The way my [Task Force] colleagues and I see it, we are in a race for new treatments for depression.”
HDRF Executive Director Louisa Benton took the virtual podium and guided guests through a recap of what HDRF has done to pivot and engage meaningfully with constituents during the pandemic, including interactive meditation sessions and the virtual 5K Race of Hope in August, which raised $200,000 for depression research.
Louisa Benton
Empire and Hidden Figures star Taraji P.Henson joined the virtual gala from her home in Los Angeles to accept the Community Ambassador of Hope award. She spoke candidly about depression in the African American community and commented, “This is a national crisis… This is one of the reasons I started [The Boris Lawrence Henson] Foundation, and I did it for my son and my friends and my neighbors, because we need to discuss depression openly like any other medical illness. Depression can take lives and coupled with silence; depression is a killer.” Earlier this year, the actress launched a campaign through her Foundation to offer free “virtual therapy” services for Black Americans – especially men — unable to afford it during the COVID-19 outbreak.
Taraji P Henson
HDRF Founder & Chair Audrey Gruss took the opportunity during her speech to announce many of the important research projects that HDRF will fund in the coming years. “We have chosen the most innovative and promising new medications and treatments in development across the country and provided funds to speed them into clinical trials,” she said. The winners are scientists at Mount Sinai, Johns Hopkins, University of California San Diego, University of Utah and University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Gruss went on to present the Hope Award for Depression Advocacy to multi-Emmy award-winning journalist and CBS Sunday Morning host, Jane Pauley, who accepted the award by sharing her story of living with bipolar depression.
Jane Pauley
Pauley said: “I don’t offer medical advice, but I tell my story and I think storytelling is very important to change the narrative which is why I was so thrilled to get the Hope Award.”
Previous honorees of the award include LeAnn Rimes, Ashley Judd, Anderson Cooper, Brooke Shields, Lorraine Bracco, and Terry Bradshaw.
Guests were moved and surprised by two musical performances during the luncheon; Tony Award Winner Rachel Bay Jones sang “I Miss the Mountains” from the Broadway musical Next to Normal, and Ross Ben Levi from Dear Evan Hansen performed a powerful rendition of “Waving through a Window.”
This is the first year the highly anticipated HOPE Luncheon was virtual, due to COVID-19 restrictions. Each previous year, the luncheon has been held at the Plaza Hotel in New York City and attended by over 300 top New York philanthropists, asset managers, business and media professionals, socialites and celebrities who gather to raise awareness about depression and its related mood disorders as well as funds for continued research. This year, the virtual luncheon featured Zoom chat rooms that functioned like virtual “tables,” so friends and colleagues could sit together during the program.
Guests Include: Serena McKnight Bowman, Jamee & Peter Gregory, Mrs. John (Susan) Gutfreund, Kim Heirston, Yaz Hernandez, Tania Higgins, Eleanora Kennedy, The Honorable & Mrs. Earle Mack, Christine Mack, Ambassador Bonnie McElveen-Hunter, Marigay McKee, Kitty & Bill McKnight, Muffy & Donald Miller, Anne S. Nordeman, Peter S. Paine III, Mrs. Pauline B. Pitt, Thomas C. Quick, Hilary Geary Ross, Vera & Julio Serrano, Nancy Silverman, Barbara & Randall Smith, Lis Waterman, Clelia Zacharias, Richard Ziegelasch, and Silvia Zoullas.
Debra & Leon Black, Paulson Family Foundation, Nancy Silverman
Benefactor Sponsors
Abraham Fuchsberg Family Foundation, Eric Javits Inc. EGL Charitable Foundation, Felicia Taylor.
Patron Sponsors
Nancy & Edmund M. Dunst/ HUB International Northeast, Katherine Farley & Jerry I. Speyer, Findlay Galleries, Frances Fisher, Maru M. Hagerty, Janssen Research & Development, Leonard & Judy Lauder, Marigay McKee and Bill Ford, Otsuka, Thomas C. Quick, Vera & Julio Serrano, Barbara & Randall Smith, Maureen Sheltry/Sunovion, Estēe Lauder Companies, Findlay Galleries, HUB International, Janssen Neuroscience, Otsuka.
Friend Sponsors
Bloomberg Philanthropies, Ambassador David & Jennifer Fischer, Mary Ann Fribourg, Kim Heirston, Tania Higgins , Hope Fragrance, Sheila & Robert Josephberg , Eleanora Kennedy, Roberts & Holland LLP, Margo L. Langenberg, Dr. Ernst & Nataly Langner, Kamie Lightburn , Lundbeck, David B. Lynch Foundation, Ambassador Bonnie McElveen-Hunter, Serena McKnight Bowman, Kitty & Bill McKnight, Muffy & Donald Miller, Mary & Garrett Moran, Laura & Brent Nicklas, Mrs. Pauline B. Pitt, Katharine Rayner, Scott Synder, Frances Valentine.
Event Chairs
Debra & Leon Black , Jamee & Peter Gregory, Nancy Silverman, Felicia Taylor, Maru M. Hagerty, Kim Heirston , Tania Higgins , Eleanora Kennedy, Margo L. Langenberg, Marigay McKee, Serena McKnight Bowman, Kitty & Bill McKnight, Peter S. Paine III, Mrs. Pauline B. Pitt, Thomas C. Quick, Katharine Rayner, Vera & Julio Serrano, Barbara & Randall Smith, Scott Snyder.
ABOUTHOPEFOR DEPRESSION RESEARCH FOUNDATION
HDRF’s mission is to fund the most innovative neuroscience research into the origins, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of depression and other mood disorders – bipolar disorder, postpartum depression, post-traumatic stress syndrome, anxiety disorder and suicide.
In 2010, HDRF launched its Depression Task Force – an outstanding collaboration of ten of the world’s leading laboratories, at the frontiers of brain science, from different research institutions across the U.S. and Canada. These scientists have developed an unprecedented research strategy that integrates the most advanced knowledge in genetics, epigenetics, molecular biology, electrophysiology, and brain imaging. To accelerate breakthrough research, they share ongoing results, in real time, at the HDRF Data Center. For more information, visit: www.hopefordepression.org
Sustainable Jewelry Designer Kendall Conrad announced that she has partnered with the organization Project Zero on a collection of oceanic themed pendants that also give consumers their very own unique ocean coordinates with purchase.
Proceeds from the sale of this pendant benefit Project Zero, who are a global movement supported by scientists, celebrities, ocean experts and individuals who are all working together to create a sustainable future for life on Earth.
Each pendant comes with your own unique ocean coordinates signifying your adoption of one square kilometer of the ocean, showing that together we are working to restore the planet in the fight against the climate crisis.
These Unisex pieces are available in hand polished satin finished solid brass, sterling silver or 14KG, ranging from $200 – $2500, engraving of personalized coordinates is also available.
The Project Zero X Kendall Conrad Collection can be fully viewed and purchased here.
Supports of Project Zero have included The Rolling Stones, Jack Black, Cara Delevigne, Zachary Levi, Slash, Sienna Miller and More.
About Project Zero PROJECT ZERO is a global movement supported by renowned scientists, business leaders, campaigners, culture makers and ocean experts, who are all working together to awaken the fight for the ocean.
The ocean is the blue heart of our planet, supplying oxygen, absorbing carbon, creating jobs, food, and endless beauty. It is our biggest ally in the fight against the climate crisis. Project Zero has set out to create a global network of ocean sanctuaries to provide resilience to the devastating effects of the climate crisis. Stretching from Antarctica to the Bering Strait, and mapped out by the world’s leading marine scientists, this global network of projects will be able to restore our ocean’s health, and set us on a path to create a sustainable future for life on Earth.
The ocean accounts for 70% of our planet, yet only about 2% its waters are fully protected, and the vast majority of existing ocean sanctuaries are either poorly managed, or not looked after at all. It is estimated that 93% of the earth’s CO2 is stored or cycled through the ocean, which also gives us over half of the oxygen we breathe. Today the ocean is sick. We need to restore the ocean to health to save our planet.
Your purchase of this pendant supports Project Zero’s work to turn the tide on the climate crisis.
THE PLANET IS IN TROUBLE, BUT THE OCEAN CAN HELP
The ocean is our planets life support system. Every second breath you take comes from the ocean. The ocean makes the clouds that make rain and snow to give us fresh water. Over one billion people daily rely on the ocean as a source of food, and countless others for their livelihoods. The ocean stores carbon and regulates the climate. The ocean gives us life. It represents 99% of all live-able space on our planet, yet only 2% is strongly protected. No ocean, no life.
IT’S TIME TO SHOW THE OCEAN SOME LOVE
The greatest threat to our planet is climate change and if we don’t take action now, the collapse of civilization and the extinction of much of the natural world is on the horizon. The ocean needs safe havens where it can replenish, and fortify itself against climate change, overfishing and pollution. That means strongly protecting at least 30% of the ocean by 2030, from the Arctic to the Antarctic, coastal to high seas areas and everywhere in between.
TURN THE TIDE ON THE CLIMATE CRISIS
Developed with a team of leading scientists and experts, we’re supporting a phenomenal system – a system that can absorb the most carbon dioxide in the entire world and create enough oxygen for more than every second breath we take. This system is the ocean.
Project Zero is working to get our biggest weapon against the climate crisis – the ocean – back in shape. We need to invest in the ocean to save our planet. Project Zero has mapped out a battle plan to secure protection for a global network of marine protected areas, providing funding one at a time until the job is done and 30% of our ocean is under protection.
NEW YORK CITY – Hashimoto Contemporary is pleased to present Night Fruit, a solo exhibition by Chicago, IL-based artist, Laura Berger. Consisting of a new series of oil paintings exploring themes of solitude and the sense of self, the exhibition is Berger’s second solo exhibition at Hashimoto Contemporary and her debut New York solo exhibition.
Laura Berger, “Reaching Out”, 2020
Drawing on introspective moments from the past year, the artist looked towards this period of deep solitude and groundlessness, exploring the liminal space. As the world lives in an ‘in between’ period of who we were pre-pandemic and who we will become, we collectively embarked on a spiritual journey, creating the opportunity to explore our own possibilities, dismantling mental constructs. Narratives within each painting are intentionally kept vague and open to interpretation, capturing a surreal and dreamlike quality.
Laura Berger, “Community Garden”, 2020
Languid female figures drape across the canvas, extended and intertwined – a quiet fluidity is captured in their elegantly flowing limbs. Messages of comfort are carried throughout each piece, with figures enveloping one another, holding oversized fruit, branches and flowers, creating a feeling of unity, safety, protection and nourishment for the soul. Depicted as solitary individuals as well as clustered together, these characters simultaneously represent the sense of self, those around us, as well as the different sides of our persona and various archetypes. Their long straight black hair and dark almond shaped eyes harmonize them as sisters, curiously looking back at the viewer, asking us what we see reflected back.
Laura Berger, “Closeness”, 2020
The gallery will be open by appointment only. In order to ensure the health and safety of visitors and staff, please note that masks are legally required for entry. To schedule an appointment, please click HERE.
Laura Berger, “Carry The Branch, The Branch Will Protect You”, 2020
The gallery will be releasing a new limited edition screen print with the artist in conjunction with the closing of the exhibition. For details please email info@hashimotocontemporary.com
Exclusive Inaugural Collection from Industry Trailblazers Available for Pre-order
(New York, NY – October 16, 2020) – G|FASHION, a global luxury brand featuring bespoke collections from the world’s top designers, launched today. The G|FASHION universe represents a unification of acclaimed fashion designers and world-class artisans, carefully curated by luxury lifestyle expert and billionaire real estate magnate, Mr. Miles Guo. Each unique collection is an artful exhibition of high-quality materials and state-of-the-art craftsmanship.
Credit_ Paola Kudacki
Industry trailblazers Ben Taverniti, Eli Azran, Doni Nahmias, and Marcella Lindeberg meticulously developed G|FASHION’s exclusive inaugural collections, working closely with Mr. Miles Guo. Additional collections will be added seasonally including up-and-coming designers from around the globe.
The G|FASHION shopping experience brings the touch and feel of a luxury retail shopping experience to the digital world. Through the e-commerce site, users experience the G|FASHION lifestyle firsthand, engaging with content and artisans as they shop. Each collection comes to life through a comprehensive exploration of the materials and craftsmanship behind it, and a three-dimensional insight into the details of the garments. Editorial content highlights the design processes, from concept to completion. Photography of the breathtaking collection was captured by world-renowned top fashion designer and photographer, Paola Kudacki in New York City.
Alongside their exclusive fashions, Taverniti, Azran, and Nahmias share their philosophy about fashion and their unique creative process, sources of inspiration, and the experience of curating their fashion collection alongside Mr. Miles Guo.
Credit_ Paola Kudacki
“Only fashion can put everything together: confidence, power, beauty, culture, life, respect, and people,” stated Mr. Miles Guo. “Each unique G|FASHION collection is an exhibition of state-of-the-art craftsmanship applied to sartorial concepts.”
Credit _ Paola Kudacki
Ben Taverniti is one of the most esteemed names in fashion. He is the recipient of great acclaim from his early work with Jeremy Scott to his recent project, Unravel. He notes, “A great collection is defined in that you cannot pinpoint a season. Rather, it defines an era. We can mix and match pieces that live in one world but speak many languages.”
Eli Azran is known throughout the world for creating the iconic fashion label, RtA. He defines G|FASHION as “timeless pieces that are effortless, and malleable from season to season. They can be incorporated in any wardrobe.”
Doni Nahmias is a rising star in fashion, best known for his Nahmias collection which debuted at HLorenzo. Of working with Mr. Miles Guo, he states, “I am understanding his world, what inspires him, and what he loves. I am taking all these emotions to put together this very special collection. We are building a brand to last forever.”
Prior to her design consulting business Style-Ed, Marcella Lindeberg worked alongside Karl Lagerfeld for K by Karl Lagerfeld from inception to culmination, in addition to working with Justin Timberlake on William Rast, Miss Sixty and numerous other commercial brands throughout her 30-year career.
Credit_ Paola Kudacki
Kamel Debeche, former head of retail operations for luxury retailer, H. Lorenzo is CEO & Creative Director of G|FASHION.
G|FASHION is the new standard for luxury fashion, a celebration of expert craftsmanship and cutting-edge style, imagined and curated by Mr. Miles Guo.
Credit _ Paola Kudacki
Pre-order exclusive designer fashions from the collection now at gfashion.com.
About G|FASHION
Imagined and artfully curated by the esteemed Mr. Miles Guo, G|FASHION is a celebration of acclaimed designers and artisans. Ben Taverniti, Eli Azran, Doni Nahmias, and Marcella Lindeberg, legendary fashion industry trailblazers, developed G|FASHION’s inaugural collections and every season new, up-and-coming talent will join the roster. The immersive digital platform provides a robust, luxury online shopping experience. G|FASHION is the new standard for luxury fashion.
MENO, the specialty tea house in the West Village, will be hosting an Art To Wear Workshop with artist Teng Teng on Saturday, November 21st from 1pm-5pm. Guests will create a Microcosm, an art endeavor by Teng Teng that is inspired by ancient hand scrolls, an art form of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). This artwork expresses the course of time, within a miniature frame. The miniature frames (1.1 x 1 inch) are originally designed by the artist to contain paintings within. These pieces can be worn as brooches, necklaces or rings. While guests design their own Microcosms, they will enjoy brunch with selections such as Plato’s Choice with smoked salmon, scrambled eggs, rosemary, olives and arugula on a croissant or Pork Guokui, sliced flatbread with pork, and a specialty tea from the MENO team like Dark Beauty, dark tea with milk, whipped cream and pecans. The artist’s own microcosms will also be on display at MENO and available for purchase. The event is priced at $65 for those who sign up before November 14th and $75 thereafter. Plastic dividers will be set between each table to ensure social distancing. Guests can RSVP at menonyc218@gmail.com.
Details about Meno – A Specialty Tea & Coffee House Recently Opened in the West Village
CONCEPT
MENO is the East meets West modern tea and coffee experience that will open its doors in the heart of the West Village near Washington Square Park this August. Conceptualized by new young rising star hospitality group OTTA Management in partnership with Urban Tea Inc. (NASDAQ: MYT), it’s the first oversea MENO location in their United States expansion plan, transplanted from Hunan Province in China, bringing patrons a variety of unique teas and coffees, specializing in coffee juices and dark tea, all set in a tranquil and serene space. The tea house’s name pays homage to Plato’s book as well as meno mosso, a musical term to slow things down. In the fast-paced world of New York City, MENO aims to provide a sanctuary for guests to take a beat and slow down, to truly appreciate the simple pleasures of a cup of tea or coffee.
BEVERAGE MENU
All the recipes found on the menu are inspired by the MENO in China re-conceptualized to fit the New York palate and aesthetic. The offerings are divided into five sections and begin with their unique and one-of-a-kind Coffee Meets Juice, a curious and delicious mixture of different freshly squeezed juices and coffee with options such as Twilight (lemon juice and coffee), Mimosa (orange juice and coffee) and PPAP (pineapple juice and coffee).
MENO’s absolute specialty is their dark teas, which are one of the most ancient teas from China rarely found in New York City. The teas, which can be served hot or cold, have undergone microbial fermentation for up to eight years. They offer choices such as Dark Beauty (dark tea, milk, whipped cream and pecans); Pur Pur (dark tea, milk, purple yam and boba); and Penta Kill (dark milk tea, herbal jelly, boba, red bean, oats and raisin).
Fresh Milk Teas, served hot or cold and made with organic whole milk, come in three varieties with Blooming (peach flavored oolong tea, milk, whipped cream and pecans); Carmine Cloud (honey flavored black tea, milk, whipped cream and pecans); and Jadeite (Jasmine flavored green tea, milk, whipped cream and pecans).
Cheese Foam Fruit Teas are served cold and made with fruit slushies mixed and fine green tea, topped with a frothy layer of milk and cream cheese and sprinkled with salt for a sweet and savory sip. Selections include Highlighted (green tea, mango and cheese foam); Blush (green tea, strawberry and cheese foam); and Ink Flow (green tea, grape and cheese foam).
Coffees are also spotlighted, using premier blends from Counter Culture Coffee with options such as Espressos, Americanos, Lattes, Cappuccinos, Iced Americanos and Iced Lattes. They offer choices for all dietary needs with whole milk, lactose-free milk and oat milk.
FOOD MENU
A small curated food menu provides the perfect complement to the beverages with savory choices like Smoked Chicken Breast Salads and Beef Bologna Sandwiches.
INTERIOR
The quaint and stylish space was designed by Liang Yang, the International Certified Interior Designer admitted by the International Accreditation Association of Professional Certification, who has led projects such as Lamborghini Lounge in Zhengzhou and a 30-billion-dollar real estate project named Triumph Square. The tea house is bathed in white with light wooden stair-style seating and small tables flanked on the right. Upon entering guests are greeted by a white service bar where they can get a glimpse of the teas and coffees being expertly prepared. Modern and traditional Asian artwork, teapots and accents are scattered throughout, creating a home away from home for guests to relax and enjoy a cup with friends. The MENO cup designs and logo was crafted by Creative Director Mark Seco.
DELIVERY & TAKEOUT
MENO will be available for takeout and delivery on the following platforms GrubHub, UberEats, HungryPanda and ChowBus.
LOCATION: 218 Thompson Street, New York, NY 10012 WEBSITE: www.menonyc.com PHONE: 646-226-9797 INSTAGRAM: @meno_newyork HOURS: Tuesday – Sunday 9am-8pm SEATING CAPACITY: Indoor: 15 seated Outdoor: 10 seated
Tune into my Instagram Live Sale This Sunday at 7:30 PM EST, live from my staging project in NYC! Take a tour of the luxury units with a special sale featuring my NYC fine art inventory. Make sure you are following us on Instagram to be notified when we go live. You don’t want to miss out on these amazing deals!
While most people are limited on travel due to the pandemic protocols set in place, one restaurant is bringing international flair to the food scene.
Entrepreneurs Lee and Max Lipton have a long-standing business relationship with Executive Chef Jeremy Hanlon that has been applauded in the South Florida market for nearly a decade. Their latest venture called Viva La Playa has them partnering up once again to create a new concept restaurant with mindfully cultivated signature dishes that take you on an intoxicating journey.
Lee Lipton, Jeremy Hanlon, Max Lipton, owners of Viva La Playa
The famed restaurateurs joined up to cultivate international cuisine curated in fashionable style that pleases the senses at the Lake Worth Beach establishment off the coast of Florida. Thoughtful and passionate creations originate from Hanlon’s travel, cooking and education throughout the world. His immense background and unique experiences are brought to the table to collectively take you on a sensory experience that leaves you satisfied yet craving more.
Viva’s Sangria De Casa
“The earlier part of my career was based on little to zero income learning from the best in the culinary world,” stated the executive chef. “Working endlessly to pursue my love for the culinary craft was my schedule. Daniel Boulud was my mentor at his (New York City) flagship, Restaurant Daniel, where I proceeded to work my way through the kitchen mastering each aspect of the kitchen. I cultivated corporate business sense in over 30 countries while assisting International franchisees and tailored my ability to speak publicly and teach via Food Network.”
Over the years Max Lipton has developed a unique passion for dining. He has globetrotted the continents to discover the world’s best restaurants that he has chronicled on the hit Instagram @max_vs_food. Throughout these experiences he has gained a wealth of culinary and service knowledge that proudly influences the alluring experience at Viva La Playa.
Lee Lipton brings a different dynamic to the table. His strong roots in New York City fashion and entertainment are celebrated. A powerful clothing empire that encompassed Calvin Klein and a top-rated nightclub notably including The Underground are just a few places enriched with his Midas touch. Lee is often seen with famous athletes, actors, and entrepreneurs at his restaurants.
The well-balanced blackboard foundation of these three men has created Viva La Playa’s bold Latin American approach to cuisine – featuring flavors from Mexico, Peru, Colombia, Cuba and Brazil among many other remarkable places.
Tuna al Pastor Served With Toasted Achiote Rice
“After countless rounds of menu engineering in our kitchen I am proud of the entire menu,” reflected Hanlon about the process to launch the restaurant after the team’s initial success with legendary Benny’s on The Beach that launched nearly seven years ago. Now, this Latina cocina features authentic international and artisan delights. Our focus is on developing flavor from our key ingredients,” continued the chef. “Where it is commonly a mistake to make flavors muddy, we focus on pulling out all of that great flavor with less ingredients to enhance the dish, making a lasting impression.”
Inspired plates include: Cerviche with citrus poached wahoo, tomatillo ginger juice, avocado, onion, pickled cucumber, and choclo; Tamal with pork shoulder and blackberry, mustard green sauce; and Empanadas with beef short rib or rotisserie chicken.
One can dine solo or be entranced at a shared table over such menu items as Queso Caliente with warm cheese sauce, spice toasted chorizo, poblano pepper stew, queso fresco, and tortilla; or Nachos Chilaquiles with salsa verde, poblano, fresh jalapeno, pickled onion, warm queso, salsa, and egg.
Take joy in also sampling unique salads and soups such as Pozole with savoy broth, hominy, braised pork, cilantro, radish and tortilla; or Strawberry Chiptole with baby carrot, tomato, yellow beets, purple cauliflower, radish, blackberry, scallion, baby greens, and strawberry chipotle dressing.
Also served is a superb cocktail menu with local fresh market ingredients and cold press juices. Each signature beverage is meticulously crafted — developed after endlessly testing flavor profiles and preparation methods in effort to perfectly pair the bold flavors that come from the kitchen. Sourced from different regions of Latin America there is a strong focus in agave spirits. Menu highlights include: Coconut Caipirinha with leblon cachaca, rumhaven, coconut water, and cane sugar; Diabla with sombra mezcal, Chambord, beet, cassis, and ginger beer; and Azul Fresco with Gray Whale gin, Mediterranean tonic, rosemary, black peppercorn, and spirulina. Also to note are fantastic flights of featured mezcal, tequila, and cane. The mezcal includes a Leyenda of Durango, San Luis, and Oaxaca.
Mezcal Haven
“We focus on details and intentional service to enhance a guest’s experience,” proudly states the chef. “Our food tells a story of indigenous origin and heightened creativity.”
Chilled Yellow Tomato Gazpacho Soup
Indulge in adventure and embark on a culinary journey with Viva La Playa as your experienced tour guides. At a time when most people have cut back on travel due to pandemic protocols and country borders on lockdown, the taste of travel has never been sweeter.
Enjoy genuine service in a resort style atmosphere with authentic world class food and beverage offerings at Viva La Playa!
“I came across a video on YouTube about a woman who relocated to NYC recently and was reminded of my own move to NYC. She took the viewer around her room, and included what she did to find the $1,800 bedroom in a 3-bedroom apartment, located in lower Manhattan. Suddenly, I was transported back 4 years ago to my first apartment in a trendy neighborhood in Brooklyn and the biggest mistake my husband, Brandon, and I made when moving to NYC.
When we first started apartment hunting, I saw the $2,550 price of a studio loft and thought, “Well this is NYC, I’ve heard rent is horrible,” so Brandon and I accepted it. I lived in Michigan and Brandon was in Georgia so we couldn’t make a ton of trips out here to apartment hunt. Luckily, we only signed a 5-month lease, something long enough that we could get to the city and look somewhere else after moving to NYC. We also had no idea which neighborhoods to look in, so we were completely blind when hunting and I only knew one person out here at the time.
Our place in Brooklyn really did look like the movie version of what you expect an NYC loft to look like. I fell asleep staring at the skyline from my 5th-floor walk-up. I was able to hang out on our rooftop on summer nights and listen to the man next door play his saxophone on his roof at night. Sadly, eventually, reality set in, our very trendy brick wall had holes where you could see outside which resulted in our electric bill skyrocketing. Our hip, old, factory of a building had a cockroach problem with no one controlling it which made for a visit from a roach every two weeks. But this is New York City, right? This is how it is here, right? NO!
My biggest mistake when moving to NYC was accepting the vague idea I had heard about how expensive and hard it is to live in the city. Don’t get me wrong, NYC is more expensive than most places in the U.S. but that doesn’t mean that you can’t make it work. As in every location across the world, there are expensive and affordable homes. I recently spoke with a woman who was considering moving out of the city and she noted the recent price hike of renting in other cities is similar to NYC.
If you’re planning on moving to NYC and currently own a car, just sell it now. Your cost of transportation will go way down, to around $137 a month for a subway pass or even cheaper if the company you work for offers a transportation discount. You can find everything you need to know on the subway here. I’ve found that groceries are also very similar in price if not the same as small-town America. It depends on which items you’re looking for but I shop at Whole Foods and my almond milk is cheaper here then when I’m home in Michigan. You also have to remember that NYC has one of the highest minimum wages in the country and an insane amount of free things to do.
It took me about 2 years to find an apartment I fell in love with after moving to NYC. I now see the benefit of experience, not only do you get to check out different neighborhoods but you get to ask other people what they’re paying for rent. Which may seem taboo but it’s very common for people to ask here and very informative.
When I say I’m obsessed with my apartment and my neighborhood I’m not kidding. My love for this place runs deep. I live in Washington Heights. It’s more residential, but we have one of the most beautiful parks, great restaurants and we’re only 20 minutes to midtown on the train. Then there’s the matter of my gorgeous 1,000 sqft 2-bedroom for $2,050 a month. When we finally came to check out the place and asked all our questions including do the windows lock and unlock ( I swear to you this is something I’ve had a problem with every time) we ended up traveling 80 blocks the next day in a snowstorm to sign a lease. When you find real estate gold in NYC you do not sleep on it, snatch it before anyone else can.
We’ve been in our current place for about 2 years now and so far we’ve only had maybe 4 cockroaches, which sadly is inevitable in NYC. It’s the first place we’ve lived in that, even though we’re renting, feels like a home. I know with Coronavirus some of you may be reevaluating whether
or not you still want to take the leap of faith and move to New York City but I would love to give you a bit of food for thought. Historically, the world has always recovered from a pandemic. New York will go back to its old ways, we just have to weather the storm for a bit. Additionally, with so many people moving out of NYC rent prices keep going down so this may be your chance to nab something great at an amazing price.”
About Claire Crawford-Braun
Claire Crawford-Braun is the writer and creator of The Modern Traditionalist, a lifestyle blog focused on living and making it in the city that never sleeps with a modern mindset and traditional values.
