Sunday Edition | May 25, 2025
- Olga Nesterova
- May 25
- 14 min read
Updated: May 29
Because life is more than politics — and kindness still matters.
🇺🇸 Wishing everyone a meaningful Memorial Day Weekend!
Tomorrow, we honor the brave service members who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.
May their courage and dedication never be forgotten. We are forever grateful.
As New York City hosts its annual Fleet Week from May 21 to 27, the city comes alive with events celebrating our sea services. This year's theme, "Honoring the Past, Defending the Future: 250 Years of Sea Service Excellence," commemorates the 250th anniversaries of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps—and even features participation from our dear neighbors to the north, the Royal Canadian Navy.
Highlights include:
Parade of Ships: Kicked off on May 21, featuring vessels like the USS New York (LPD 21), USS Oak Hill (LSD 51), USCGC Calhoun (WMSL 759), and Canada's HMCS Frédérick Rolette (AOPV 434) sailing up the Hudson River.
Ship Tours: Public tours were available at Manhattan's Pier 88 and 90 on May 23–24, and at Staten Island's Homeport Pier from May 22–26, offering a firsthand look at naval vessels and the opportunity to meet sailors and marines.
Intrepid Museum Events: From May 23–26, the museum hosts activities including a free screening of Top Gun on the flight deck, military demonstrations, and a Memorial Day ceremony.
Times Square Performances: The crowds enjoyed performances by the Marine Corps Silent Drill Platoon and Navy Band Northeast, along with diving demonstrations in a special dive tank setup.
Additionally, Mayor Eric Adams announced special discounts for active-duty military, veterans, and their families at 34 city venues, including the Bronx Zoo and the American Museum of Natural History, as a token of appreciation for their service.
🎭 CULTURE SNAPSHOT
Monash University Reinstates Khaled Sabsabi’s Exhibition
After initial postponement amid controversy, Monash University has decided to proceed with Lebanese-Australian artist Khaled Sabsabi’s exhibition, "Stolon Press: Flat Earth," at the Monash University Museum of Art. The exhibition, featuring spiritual calligraphic artworks created with Lebanese coffee, reflects on Sabsabi’s childhood during the Lebanese civil war. The decision is seen as a victory for artistic freedom and dialogue.
New York State Announces $81.5 Million in Arts Funding
Governor Kathy Hochul has announced that $81.5 million in grants will be available for New York State artists and arts organizations. The funding aims to support operating costs, creative commissions, and residencies, reinforcing the state's commitment to its vibrant arts sector.
Cruel World Festival Features Iconic Reunions
The Cruel World Festival in Pasadena, California, showcased performances by New Order, Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds, and marked the first performance by 'Til Tuesday in 33 years. Despite several hours of rain, the festival proceeded with its headlining acts.
Music Awards Japan Celebrates Inaugural Ceremony
The inaugural Music Awards Japan took place at Rohm Theatre in Kyoto, with hip-hop duo Creepy Nuts winning nine awards. Singer-songwriter Fujii Kaze led with 17 nominations. The event featured performances by artists like Yoasobi and Hikaru Utada, highlighting the diversity of Japan's music scene.
WorldPride 2025 Kicks Off in Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C., is hosting WorldPride 2025, featuring a diverse array of events celebrating LGBTQ+ pride, including performances by Shakira, Jennifer Lopez, and Janelle Monáe. The festivities encompass parades, concerts, and cultural exhibitions, emphasizing inclusivity and community.
Shirui Lily Festival Celebrates Cultural Heritage in Manipur
The 5th State-Level Shirui Lily Festival commenced in Ukhrul, Manipur, celebrating the 75th anniversary of the Shirui Lily, the state flower. The five-day festival highlights the region’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, aiming to promote conservation and tourism.
Victor "Marka27" Quiñonez Unveils Brooklyn's Largest Mural
Artist Victor "Marka27" Quiñonez has unveiled "Brownsville King of Love," a monumental mural in Brownsville, Brooklyn. The artwork celebrates community resilience and cultural identity, adding a vibrant landmark to the neighborhood.
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan Makes Statement at Cannes 2025
At her 22nd appearance at the Cannes Film Festival, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan garnered attention by wearing sindoor, a traditional Indian symbol of marriage. The gesture sparked discussions about cultural identity and personal symbolism in public appearances.
SPECIAL COVERAGE: ICFF 2025
A Glimpse into ICFF 2025: Timeless Beauty and Innovation at the International Contemporary Furniture Fair
ICFF (International Contemporary Furniture Fair) is the annual design event held in New York City that celebrates the latest trends in furniture and industrial design. Since its inception in 1989, the fair has grown into one of the most influential platforms for global design, bringing together established brands and emerging talent. Since 1993, ICFF has also recognized innovative exhibitors with its prestigious Editors Awards.
Held each May at the Javits Center, ICFF 2025 welcomed over 600 exhibitors, each showcasing exceptional craftsmanship, visionary designs, and groundbreaking products. As much as the sheer scale of the fair was awe-inspiring, it also maintained an intimate atmosphere that encouraged meaningful conversations and learning opportunities.
This year, our mission was to choose a handful of exhibitors to spotlight without overwhelming our readers. After engaging with numerous brands on the first day, we decided to focus on four distinct names, each representing different cultures and design philosophies. These brands—Grohe from Germany, Ulgador from France, Balmuda from Japan, and Natural Curiosities from the United States—have one thing in common: their dedication to creating timeless beauty and lasting joy for their customers. Let’s take a closer look at each of them.
Grohe: Innovation Meets Luxury in Water Design
As soon as you stepped into ICFF 2025, you were drawn to a striking booth in royal blue. The layout was grand yet intimate, offering a sense of a luxurious home. The moment you saw the Grohe logo, you knew you were in the presence of a legendary German brand.
Grohe, founded in 1901 and headquartered in Düsseldorf, is a global leader in innovative water products, offering comprehensive solutions for bathrooms and kitchen fittings. In 2014, the brand became part of the Japanese Lixil Group, and by 2017, Grohe had generated consolidated sales of €1.35 billion. Today, the company employs around 6,000 people worldwide.
At ICFF 2025, Grohe introduced the Aqua Atelier, an immersive installation showcasing the future of water innovation.
Visitors were treated to a preview of the upcoming Listra collection, interactive displays of the Grohe Bluewater system, and panels featuring renowned figures such as fashion designer Christian Siriano and architect Koray Duman.
One of the standout features was the Grohe Bluewater system, which delivers customized water experiences directly from your tap. With the push of a button, you can select chilled water, sparkling water, or still water, and each option is illuminated with a corresponding LED light—blue for chilled, turquoise for medium sparkling, and green for fully sparkling water.
The Listra Collection was an exclusive first look, while the Bluewater Display impressed with its innovative functionality. Grohe’s pull-out faucets, for example, allow for effortless sink cleaning and easy pitcher filling. And with their advanced filtration systems, Grohe ensures that every drop of water is pure and fresh.
What stood out most, however, was the dedication of the Grohe team, who exemplified the brand’s commitment to quality, excellence, and consumer well-being. As they say at Grohe: “Everything comes with a seal of exceptional quality.” It’s clear this philosophy permeates every aspect of their design and products.
Watch the video below for a detailed tour with Grohe Marketing Director, Irina Briller:
Ulgador: Bringing Versailles to Your Home
Have you ever dreamed of taking a piece of Versailles with you? For many, that dream is now a reality, thanks to Ulgador—a Parisian brand founded by the visionary artist Gabor Ulveczki.
Ulgador’s story dates back to 1996, when Gabor began creating wallpaper, mural panels, eglomisé glass, and various decorative objects. His unique techniques of oxidizing and corroding metal leaf—such as gold, copper, silver, and aluminum—produce stunning colors and effects, giving each piece an artistic quality that elevates any space.
Gabor’s daughter, Rahel Ulveczki, an artist in her own right, joined the family business in 2012. Together, they’ve created luxury decorative pieces that have been adopted by some of the world’s most prestigious brands, including Chanel, Dior, and Van Cleef & Arpels.
Ulgador’s creations transcend the label of “products”—they are handcrafted works of art that can transform any space into a sanctuary of beauty. During ICFF 2025, Rahel shared her passion for the brand’s artistic mission, emphasizing that Ulgador is about more than just luxury; it’s about crafting experiences and bringing magic to life.
Watch the video below to see Rahel Ulveczki discuss her work and see a product demo:
Balmuda: Japanese Innovation with Heart
Balmuda, the innovative Japanese brand founded in 2003, brought a sense of wonder to ICFF 2025. Known for its sleek, minimalist designs and commitment to sustainability, Balmuda has earned a cult following in Japan and Asia. As a newcomer to the US market, the company has garnered significant attention for its ability to combine cutting-edge technology with user-centered design.
Founded by Gen Terao, who started the company in his room with just a single prototype, Balmuda has grown into an internationally recognized brand. The company is driven by the philosophy of creating not just functional products, but experiences that bring joy and wonder to daily life.
At ICFF, Balmuda's booth was constantly buzzing with visitors eager to learn more about the brand’s signature products, including the iconic toaster, Moon Kettle, and various other household items. What truly made the experience stand out was the warmth and passion of the Balmuda team, who embodied the brand's values of curiosity, precision, and creativity.
Watch the video below for an interview with Kan Terao, the US Marketing and PR Manager, and a product demo featuring the toaster, Moon Kettle, and the fan:
Natural Curiosities: Eclectic Art Inspired by Nature
Finally, let’s turn our attention to Natural Curiosities, a Los Angeles-based art house that has been designing luxurious, nature-inspired wall decor for over 20 years. The brand’s booth at ICFF 2025 was a testament to its eclectic and imaginative approach to art and design.
Natural Curiosities offers a curated collection of framed art prints and wall decor that goes beyond mere decoration—it enhances the ambiance of any space. The brand’s creators, Christopher and Sera Wilcox, have cultivated a rich sense of style that shines through in their art. The pieces are not just products; they are immersive experiences that transform both public and private spaces.
At ICFF, I had the pleasure of interviewing the founders about their journey and vision for the brand. Natural Curiosities continues to delight interior designers and clients worldwide, offering curated collections that speak to the soul.
Watch the video below for an interview with the founders, Christopher and Sera Wilcox, and learn more about the brand’s vision:
A Personal Glimpse into the Future of Design
This year’s ICFF was a truly special experience. The brands we featured—Grohe, Ulgador, Balmuda, and Natural Curiosities—represent the future of contemporary design: a future that celebrates innovation, craftsmanship, and beauty. Each of these companies not only creates products but crafts experiences that bring joy, comfort, and meaning to their customers' lives.
As we sign off from the Javits Center in New York, we hope this glimpse into the world of ICFF 2025 has inspired you to explore the stories and visions of these remarkable brands. For more information about the fair and the exhibitors, be sure to visit the ICFF website.
🥂 MOCKTAIL OF THE WEEK: APEROL SPRITZ
The new series continues: The Mocktail of the Season Showdown.
Each Sunday, we’ll feature one delicious contender — and let you vote for the ultimate winner at summer’s end.
🍊 Blood Orange Mocktail Spritzer
This blood orange and ginger spritzer hits all the right notes: a little sweet, a little sour, and a little spiced. Finished with a bouquet of fresh garnishes, it’s the perfect mocktail to toast with all season long.
Ingredients
Ice
3 oz. blood orange juice
2 oz. ginger beer
1/2 oz. fresh lemon juice
Sliced blood orange, sliced ginger, and fresh mint, for garnish
Directions
Step 1:Fill a rocks glass with ice. Add the blood orange juice, ginger beer, and lemon juice, and gently stir to combine.
Step 2:Garnish with sliced blood orange, ginger, and fresh mint.
Originally appeared: Delish, 1/18/2024
🌿 DID YOU KNOW?
Ginger Was Once Worth More Than Gold
Long before it became a staple in teas, stir-fries, and holiday cookies, ginger was one of the most valuable commodities in the ancient world—at times worth more than gold by weight.
Originating in Southeast Asia, ginger was first cultivated over 5,000 years ago. Ancient civilizations prized it not only for its distinctive spicy flavor but also for its medicinal properties. The Chinese and Indians used ginger to treat everything from nausea to joint pain, while the Romans imported it from the East as a luxury good for the wealthy.
In medieval Europe, ginger was so prized that a single pound could buy a live sheep. It became a favorite in royal kitchens and apothecaries alike, used in everything from wine infusions to remedies for the plague.
Today, ginger is celebrated around the world not just for its culinary versatility but for its anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits. Whether steeped in tea or stirred into a spritzer, ginger carries with it a rich, spicy legacy that spans continents and centuries.
🧠 HEALTH & LONGEVITY
Practical Ways to Face and Manage Anxiety
Anxiety is a natural response to stress, but when it feels overwhelming or constant, it's important to take action.
Here are seven practical methods that can help you regain a sense of calm and control:
1. Ground Yourself with the 5-4-3-2-1 Technique
This simple mindfulness tool brings you back to the present:
5 things you can see
4 things you can feel
3 things you can hear
2 things you can smell
1 thing you can taste
Use this anytime anxiety pulls your thoughts into the future or past.
2. Breathe Deeply and Slowly
Anxiety often causes shallow breathing. Try box breathing:
Inhale for 4 seconds
Hold for 4 seconds
Exhale for 4 seconds
Hold for 4 seconds
Repeat for 1–2 minutes to calm your nervous system.
3. Limit Stimulants
Caffeine, sugar, and alcohol can heighten anxiety symptoms. Try reducing or avoiding them, especially during high-stress days.
4. Move Your Body
Exercise releases endorphins and can significantly lower anxiety levels. Even a 10-minute walk, some stretching, or dancing around your room can help.
5. Create a “Calm List”
Write down things that comfort you—music, scents, people, quotes, or favorite places. Keep it on hand when anxiety strikes.
6. Challenge Anxious Thoughts
Ask yourself:
“What evidence do I have for this fear?”
“What would I say to a friend thinking this?”
“Is this a thought or a fact?”
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques like these can disrupt spiraling thought patterns.
7. Talk to Someone
Don’t bottle it up. A friend, therapist, or support group can offer both perspective and comfort. You're not alone, and your anxiety doesn’t define you.
💬 Final Thought:
Anxiety is part of being human, but you are not powerless in facing it. These tools won’t erase it overnight—but used regularly, they can help you build resilience, reduce intensity, and gain more peace in your everyday life.
As always, if you’re experiencing persistent or severe anxiety, please seek support from a licensed mental health professional. You don’t have to face it alone — help is available.
😊 The Surprising Benefits of Smiling — Backed by Science
A simple smile might seem small, but its impact on your body, brain, and relationships is bigger than you might think. Here's why smiling is one of the easiest things you can do to boost your day — and someone else’s.
😄 1. Smiling Reduces Stress
Even if you’re not feeling especially joyful, the act of smiling can lower your heart rate and blood pressure. Research shows that smiling during stressful situations helps your body recover faster and makes you feel more in control.
🧠 2. It Boosts Your Mood
Smiling triggers the release of endorphins, dopamine, and serotonin — your brain’s feel-good chemicals. It’s a natural mood booster that can help shift you out of a mental funk.
💬 3. It Makes You More Approachable
People who smile are often perceived as friendlier, more trustworthy, and more competent. Smiling can open doors socially and professionally, and it sets a tone of kindness in every interaction.
🛌 4. It Can Improve Your Immune System
Chronic stress can weaken your immune system, but smiling (and the calm it promotes) can help strengthen it — making it easier for your body to fight illness.
💞 5. It’s Contagious — In a Good Way
When you smile at someone, their brain often mirrors the expression back. This ripple effect can lighten someone else’s day without a word.
Smiling isn’t about pretending everything’s perfect. It’s a gentle, science-backed way to care for your mental and emotional health — and share a little light with the world. So go ahead: smile more often. Your brain, your body, and the people around you will thank you.
😊 FEEL-GOOD RECIPE
🥥 Coconut Bliss Balls (Nut-Free Option!)
No bake, naturally sweet, and totally satisfying.
🌿 Why you’ll love them:
These little bites are gluten-free, banana-free, and easy to make nut-free, making them a great option for lunchboxes or shared snacks.
Ingredients (makes ~12 balls)
1 cup raw sunflower seeds (or raw cashews/almonds if not nut-free)
1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut (plus extra for rolling)
1/2 cup pitted Medjool dates
1 tbsp maple syrup or honey
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp coconut oil (optional, for extra richness)
Pinch of sea salt
Directions
If using dry dates, soak them in warm water for 5 minutes, then drain.
Blend sunflower seeds (or nuts) in a food processor until finely ground.
Add dates, coconut, maple syrup, vanilla, coconut oil, and salt. Pulse until the mixture forms a sticky dough.
Roll into 1-inch balls and coat with extra shredded coconut.
Chill for 20 minutes before serving. Store in the fridge for up to a week.
✅ Nut-Free Note:
To make this recipe fully nut-free, simply use sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or oat flour in place of nuts. They’ll still taste creamy and delicious — no nuts needed!
Wholesome energy. Allergy-friendly. Feel-good fuel.
🎶 MOMENT OF ZEN
Relaxing Meditation Music Playlists
For this week's Moment Of Zen, I would love to present to you three curated playlists that offer soothing instrumental tracks designed to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and enhance focus.
Why it's beneficial:
Listening to calming music can lower cortisol levels, helping to alleviate stress and anxiety.
Gentle melodies can aid in falling asleep faster and improving sleep quality.
Ambient sounds can create a peaceful environment conducive to concentration and mindfulness.
Feel free to share these playlists with friends or incorporate it into your daily routine for a moment of tranquility.
❤️ KINDNESS
This week’s Moments of Kindness is all about laughter — we’re "traveling" across a variety of countries to prove that laughter truly is universal.
The first video features a British couple who only wanted to hear a Happy Birthday song, but ended up in a full business conversation with Alexa — all while holding champagne.
The second video shows two German boys demonstrating their “ultimate trick”... just watch. You’ll see why it’s unforgettable.
The third video showcases two synchronized sisters who talk... simultaneously. It’s oddly mesmerizing and very funny.
Smiles guaranteed!
📺 WHAT’S STREAMING
Netflix | 🌊 Sirens (Limited Series – Premiered May 22)
This dark comedy-drama stars Julianne Moore as Michaela Kell, a charismatic socialite whose enigmatic influence over her assistant Simone (Milly Alcock) raises concerns for Simone's sister, Devon (Meghann Fahy). Set against a luxurious coastal backdrop, the series delves into themes of power, family, and manipulation.
Netflix | 🎤 The Good Life (Comedy Special – Premieres May 26)
Comedian Mike Birbiglia returns with a new stand-up special that explores themes of fatherhood, personal growth, and the humor found in everyday life. Known for his storytelling prowess, Birbiglia offers a blend of wit and heartfelt reflection.
🎧 Podcast Spotlight: Where Should We Begin? with Esther Perel
"Join Esther in her office every Monday to listen in as real couples in search of help bare the raw, intimate, and profound details of their stories. From break-ups and open relationships to workplace conflicts and fractures in the family, come for a glimpse into another’s world and stay for what you’ll learn about your own.
Whether you listen alone, or with a partner or friends, we encourage you to use the podcast as a map for navigating difficult relational conversations."
📣 COMING UP ON ONEST
Exclusive coverage from:
MET Gala Exhibition
Eden Gallery, NYC
Van Gogh Exhibition at the NYBG
United Justice Coalition by RocNation
Governors Island Jazz Age Lawn Party
Amy Sherald: "American Sublime" at the Whitney Museum
Dragon Fest NYC
…and more!
🧡 Help Us Grow
ONEST is 100% independent and reader-supported. If this newsletter made you smile, share it and consider donating — even a little goes a long way.
Happy Sunday —And remember, life is more than politics.
SUPPORT INDEPENDENT JOURNALISM
ONEST Network is an independent media company that relies solely on your support. We value independence, enabling us to report ACTUAL NEWS while keeping your data secure. Your donation would be greatly appreciated to help us continue our operations.
コメント