My Friend Got an Affordable Housing in Manhattan! Her Story and What It Means

My Friend Got an Affordable Housing in Manhattan!

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

Some great news came to me last week! My friend, who currently lives in the Bronx, messaged me one afternoon saying,

“I got an affordable housing apartment in Manhattan!”

Renting an apartment in NYC is getting harder and harder these days, so her news sounded like a miracle.

Now, I know you probably want to know how much the rent is and how she got it. I’ve actually started looking into it myself and thinking about applying too. But there are a few things you might want to know before you do it.

What Is Affordable Housing in NYC?

In simple terms, affordable housing is a program by New York City that offers reduced-rent apartments for people who have low to moderate incomes.
Instead of paying wild market prices, tenants pay rent based on their income level — not the luxury real estate market around them.

It’s all managed through a city system called NYC Housing Connect, where anyone can apply online for these housing lotteries.
Developers who build these apartments receive city incentives, while residents get a fair chance to live in neighborhoods that might otherwise be out of reach — even in Manhattan.

Here’s the part you’re probably most curious about:

She’ll be paying $1,900 a month — not exactly cheap, but for Manhattan, that’s actually a pretty good deal. Considering how expensive NYC is, $1,900 is quite reasonable.

How My Friend Got Her Manhattan Apartment

My friend, who works full-time in Queens, had been struggling to find an apartment in the city for years. She was still sharing a tiny room in the Bronx. The rent there wasn’t bad, but it was time for her to move out for personal reasons.

One night, she found a listing on NYC Housing Connect for a brand-new building in Lower Manhattan — complete with a gym, a rooftop terrace, and even a small garden.

She applied, thinking her chances were slim. A year later, she received an email:

“Congratulations! You’ve been selected for an interview.”

After income verification and some paperwork, she got the apartment. The rent will be higher than what she’s currently paying, but she’s excited because she can finally live in Manhattan — just like I do.

What Life Is Like in Affordable Housing

I haven’t visited her apartment yet, but I definitely will post about what it’s like. I’m very curious about the walls and acoustics since I’m a musician. I’m also curious about the size of the rooms, the design, and other details.

How You Can Apply

If you’re inspired by her story, here’s how you can apply too:

Go to NYC Housing Connect.
Create an account and fill in your household income information.
Search for listings that match your income range.
Apply online for as many as you qualify for — it’s free!
Wait for the lottery results and stay patient.

Many people apply multiple times before getting selected, so persistence really matters – my friend tried three times.

A Chance to Dream in Manhattan

For many New Yorkers, affordable housing isn’t just about cheaper rent — it’s about having a chance to belong in this incredible city. It allows artists, teachers, nurses, and everyday dreamers to live near their work, friends, and communities.

My friend’s story reminded me that sometimes, hope in New York City comes in the form of a simple email — one that says, ‘You’ve https://housingconnect.nyc.gov/been chosen.’ It’s a true New York story.”

“If you’ve ever dreamed of living in Manhattan, even knowing it can be expensive, NYC Housing Connect might give you a chance to make that dream real. You never know — the next ‘Congratulations’ email could be yours.”

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What is KISD? The New Keyword in Education

Students learning with creativity and innovation (KISD education)

Estimated reading time: 2 minutes

Every year, new buzzwords appear in the world of education. One of the trending terms right now is “kisd.” But what exactly does it mean, and why is it gaining attention?

The Meaning of KISD

KISD stands for Knowledge, Innovation, Skills, and Development — four essential pillars of modern education:

Knowledge: Building strong academic foundations and information literacy.
Innovation: Encouraging creativity and new ideas.
Skills: Gaining practical abilities that can be applied in real life.
Development: Growing as an individual and as part of society.

Together, these form the concept of “kisd,” a holistic approach to learning.

Why is KISD Important?

Traditional education has often focused mainly on memorizing knowledge. But in today’s fast-changing world, that’s no longer enough.

AI and digital society → Creativity and problem-solving skills are crucial.
Global connections → Communication beyond basic knowledge is required.
Personal growth → Education should support lifelong development.

This is why schools and educators are starting to use “kisd” as a guiding principle for new curriculums.

How to Apply KISD in Learning

Parents, teachers, and students can all bring “kisd” into everyday learning with simple steps:

Connect knowledge to daily life (e.g., using math during shopping).
Practice small challenges daily (e.g., asking one new question each day).
Learn skills through experiences (e.g., cooking, coding, music).
Track personal growth (e.g., keeping a journal or portfolio).

Final Thoughts

“Kisd” is more than just a trend. It’s a vision for the future of education, reminding us that true learning is not only about knowledge, but also about innovation, skills, and personal development.

By integrating kisd into our learning, we can help prepare children — and ourselves — for a brighter, more adaptable future.

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Hatsuhana: A Taste of Traditional Edomae Sushi in the Heart of Manhattan

Hey everyone! It’s been a while—hope you’re doing well.
I, Maegami, am back here with a new update!

Last week, I had the chance to visit Hatsuhana Restaurant (website) now that the pandemic is finally behind us. The last time I was there was so long ago, I honestly don’t even remember when it was!

I found myself wondering what it’s like these days, so I decided to stop by with my husband.

The quality was just as amazing as I remembered, and I thought it was worth sharing here—especially if you’re looking for a Japanese-owned sushi restaurant in New York.

Hatsuhana

If you’re looking for truly authentic sushi in New York City—something refined, serene, and deeply rooted in Japanese tradition—Hatsuhana is the kind of place that quietly takes your breath away.

Tucked just off Fifth Avenue in Midtown Manhattan, this understated gem has been serving classic Edomae-style sushi since 1976, making it one of the city’s oldest and most respected Japanese restaurants.

The Menu – Really Decent

Recently, I’ve noticed that sushi in New York City is getting smaller. I’m not sure if it’s a trend or just a quiet shift across the scene—but Hatsuhana is thankfully keeping the traditional portion size.

We ordered the Sushi Deluxe, which includes a choice of one roll from a set list.
Each plate is $36 + tax—exceptionally reasonable for this level of quality in Manhattan.

(Just for context, the last time we paid $500 for omakase elsewhere—but I won’t name names, because unfortunately, the quality didn’t meet our standards.)

Surprisingly, they haven’t raised the price. What I did notice, though, is that they’ve added more tables since my last visit.
It seems like they’ve found a smart way to maintain their authenticity and integrity while still adapting to the times.

A Restaurant with a Quiet History and Deep Roots

The name Hatsuhana means “first flower of spring,” a poetic nod to the fleeting beauty and delicate artistry that define both Japanese culture and sushi itself.

Its founder, Katsuhide Sato, moved to the U.S. in the 1960s and opened Hatsuhana after facing a personal health crisis that prevented him from continuing as a sushi chef. But instead of leaving the culinary world behind, he created a space where his vision could continue—one where the focus would always remain on simplicity, freshness, and technique.

At a time when sushi was still a novelty in America, Hatsuhana offered the real thing. And it still does.

Simple. Elegant. Unforgettable.

At Hatsuhana, the menu avoids trends and flashy presentations. Instead, it leans into purity and tradition. Fish is flown in from Tokyo (Toyosu – Tsukiji moved to a new location in Tokyo) and sourced locally as well, ensuring every bite reflects the highest standards of freshness.

One of their most iconic offerings is the “Box of Dreams”, a lacquered bento-style box filled with a stunning selection of sushi. It’s delicate, elegant, and surprisingly satisfying—perfect for anyone who wants to try a bit of everything. I couldn’t believe they still have this on the menu, and I’m definitely planning to order it next time.

Unlike many modern sushi restaurants like Tsumo Sushi that only serve omakase, Hatsuhana also welcomes guests to order à la carte (“okonomi” style), making it accessible whether you’re a sushi connoisseur or a curious first-timer.

A Sanctuary in the City

The restaurant spans two levels:

The first floor offers calm, spacious table seating—perfect for a quiet lunch or a peaceful dinner.
The second floor features an intimate sushi bar, where you can watch the chefs at work and enjoy a more immersive experience.

Everything here feels intentional: the lighting, the decor, the flow of service. It’s a reminder that dining can be a meditative experience, not just a meal.

A Perfect Place for Solo Dining or Special Occasions

As a woman dining alone in the city, I’ve always appreciated restaurants that strike the right balance between warm hospitality and quiet elegance. Hatsuhana is exactly that kind of place. Whether you’re treating yourself to a solo sushi moment, catching up with a friend, or celebrating a birthday, it delivers a sense of calm and grace that’s hard to find in busy Manhattan.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for the best sushi in NYC that’s quiet, authentic, and rooted in history, Hatsuhana should be at the top of your list. It’s a restaurant that doesn’t try to impress with noise or gimmicks. Instead, it quietly wins your heart—with craftsmanship, quality, and timeless simplicity.

Add it to your New York dining list—you’ll walk out feeling nourished, body and soul.

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Discover Oishinbo Japanese Store in Harrison: A Hidden Gem for Authentic Japanese Goods

Oishinbo Japanese Store in Harrison, NY

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

If you’re a fan of Japanese cuisine, culture, or unique Japanese goods, Oishinbo Japanese Store in Harrison is a must-visit destination. Located just a short drive from New York City, this charming store offers a wide variety of authentic Japanese products that will transport you straight to Japan. Whether you’re a foodie or simply looking for something special, Oishinbo provides an unmatched experience.

Yelp link of Oishinbo

Why Oishinbo Japanese Store is a Must-Visit in Harrison

Oishinbo Japanese Store stands out for its carefully curated selection of Japanese food, snacks, kitchenware, and cultural items. Whether you’re preparing for a Japanese-themed dinner at home or looking for a unique gift, you’ll find something special here. The store is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, providing top-notch products that ensure you experience Japan’s rich culture from the comfort of your own home.

Check Japanese food cooking pages also !

What You Can Find at Oishinbo Japanese Store

Authentic Japanese Snacks and Ingredients Oishinbo offers an impressive range of snacks, from savory rice crackers to sweet mochi, as well as all the essential ingredients to create your own Japanese meals at home. You’ll find premium soy sauce, miso, rice, noodles, and spices that make Japanese cooking a breeze.
Japanese Kitchenware and Tableware For those who appreciate fine craftsmanship, Oishinbo carries a stunning selection of Japanese kitchenware and tableware. From delicate teacups to high-quality knives, these products not only serve as functional tools but also as beautiful works of art.
Gifts and Cultural Items If you’re looking for unique souvenirs or gifts, the store features a variety of traditional Japanese items like kimonos, origami paper, and handcrafted pottery. These items make for thoughtful gifts and perfect keepsakes.

Oishinbo’s Commitment to Quality

One of the things that sets Oishinbo apart is its dedication to quality. Every item in the store is handpicked, ensuring that only the best products are offered to customers. Whether it’s their authentic Japanese tea or premium-quality knives, you can trust that you’re getting the real deal when you shop here.

The Convenient Location in Harrison

Oishinbo is conveniently located in Harrison, making it easily accessible for those in the Westchester area or those coming from New York City. The cozy, inviting atmosphere of the store makes it a wonderful stop for anyone looking to explore Japanese culture and bring a piece of Japan back home.

Customer Reviews: What People Are Saying About Oishinbo

Customers rave about the friendly and knowledgeable staff, the extensive product range, and the authentic feel of the store. Many appreciate the store’s attention to detail and its commitment to providing high-quality goods. It’s a top spot for foodies, collectors, and anyone looking to dive deeper into Japanese culture.

Conclusion: A Slice of Japan in Harrison

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Oishinbo Japanese Store is a hidden gem that offers an authentic Japanese shopping experience. With its wide selection of foods, kitchenware, and cultural items, it’s the perfect place to explore the flavors and craftsmanship of Japan. Stop by and experience Japan like never before.

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2025：Obtaining and Extending an Artist Visa Under the Trump Administration

Obtaining and Extending an Artist Visa Under the Trump Administration

For Those Considering Applying for or Renewing an Artist Visa

Hello! This is Maegami from the blog The Goddess’s Bangs. As we step into 2025, many of you may be feeling uncertain about applying for or renewing an artist visa. With former President Trump’s re-election, it’s natural to wonder how immigration policies may change.

In this article, I will explain in detail how to obtain and extend an artist visa (O-1 visa) under the Trump administration. I’ll also share my personal experience of successfully extending my visa in 2017 during Trump’s previous term.

Impact on Visa Applications Under a Republican Administration

Under the Biden administration, immigration policies were relatively relaxed, resulting in an increase in the number of green cards issued. Many of my friends, including myself, were able to obtain permanent residency during this period.

However, with Trump 2.0 in 2025, immigration policies are expected to become stricter. For example, restrictions on H-1B and other work visas may be tightened. That said, obtaining an artist visa (O-1 visa) remains entirely possible, just as it was during Trump’s previous term.

In fact, I know musicians and artists who successfully obtained O-1 visas and traveled to the U.S. in 2025. So, there’s no need to worry excessively.

Artist Visas are Still Obtainable in 2025

You might be concerned that visas will be harder to get under Trump. However, the criteria for artist visas haven’t changed drastically. With well-prepared documentation, visa acquisition and renewal are achievable. Even during the Biden administration, some artist visa applications were denied.

What changes the most?

Tougher Interviews: Interviews may become more rigorous, as was my experience during the previous Trump administration.
Increase in RFEs (Request for Evidence): Additional documentation requests may become more common.
Higher Fees: As of 2025, the application fee exceeds $1,000.

Regardless of the administration, proper documentation and preparation are the keys to success.

👉 Check out my article on Visa Interview Tips

My Experience Extending an Artist Visa Under the Trump Administration in 2017

In 2017, I successfully extended my artist visa (O-1 visa) for three years under the Trump administration. During this process, I received two RFEs. By responding appropriately to their questions, I was granted the extension.

Tips for Handling RFEs:

Provide detailed comparisons of your past and current activities.
Strengthen your application with additional awards, media coverage, and recommendation letters.
Enhance the quality of recommendation letters with specific achievements rather than using a generic format.

Interestingly, I suspect my application was reviewed by the same immigration officer as before, indicating a consistent evaluation process.

Major Changes for Artist Visas Under the Trump Administration

Increased Fees: The application fee has surged over the years.
- Initial application (Past): Approx. $360
- Around 2020: $680
- 2025: Over $1,000
Premium Processing: Expedited processing is available for an additional fee.
Longer Processing Times: The standard processing time may extend beyond 6-8 months.
Stricter Interviews: Expect detailed questions about your achievements and contributions to the U.S. art scene.

Tips for Successfully Applying or Renewing an Artist Visa in 202

Prepare Comprehensive Documentation
- Organize past works and performance records into a clear, professional portfolio.
Obtain Strong Recommendation Letters
- Secure sincere letters from individuals familiar with your work.
Provide Media Coverage Evidence
- Quality over quantity — three well-regarded media articles or reviews are ideal.
Master Your Interview Preparation
- Be ready to clearly explain your activities in English. Trump’s policies have emphasized stricter language proficiency assessments.
- Conduct mock interviews to practice your responses.
Consult an Immigration Attorney
- Working with a lawyer can be beneficial, especially when handling RFEs.

Conclusion: Artist Visas Are Still Obtainable in 2025!

While immigration policies under Trump may become stricter, artist visas (O-1 visas) are still attainable with proper preparation. In fact, Japanese artists have successfully obtained visas and traveled to the U.S. in 2025.

The key to success is thorough documentation, careful interview preparation, and appropriate responses to RFEs.

If you are considering applying for a visa, plan ahead and take the necessary steps for a smooth application process.

Café Sabarsky: A Hidden Gem in New York

Hello, this is Maegami from the blog “Goddess’ Bangs”. How have you been since the start of the New Year?

It feels like the U.S. is on the brink of something major, and this year, or rather the next four years, may have a significant impact on the world. I imagine many of you are feeling uncertain about what’s ahead.

For the first post of 2025, I’d like to focus on a café in New York. In times like these, when the world seems uneasy, we all long for an escape. So, I’d like to write something that will spark a little excitement.

Today, I’m introducing Café Sabarsky, a café located in the Upper East Side of Manhattan, just east of Central Park.

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Happy New Year 2025♪

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Café Sabarsky is a hidden gem that offers an elegant, Viennese atmosphere. Inside, you’ll find works by Gustav Klimt and antique furniture, creating a charming ambiance. You can also enjoy traditional treats like Sachertorte and an Einspänner coffee. If you’re looking to escape reality, simply step inside and let the café take you on a little trip.

Recommended Menu at the Café

Here’s what I ordered, and what I would recommend when visiting:

Einspänner: A classic Viennese coffee topped with fluffy whipped cream. It’s a comforting drink, and the cream is not sweet at all.

Sachertorte: A rich chocolate cake with a perfect balance of tangy apricot jam. Unlike American sweets, it’s not overly sweet. The chocolate is bitter and delicious.

Museum Information

Café Sabarsky is located inside the Neue Galerie, a museum dedicated to modern Austrian and German art. You can enjoy masterpieces by Gustav Klimt and Egon Schiele here. You can directly access the gallery from the café entrance, though the gallery has an admission fee.

Founders of the Café and Gallery

The famous philanthropist and art collector Ronald S. Lauder is the founder of the Neue Galerie. He was deeply passionate about modern Austrian and German art and founded the gallery in 2001. To bring the traditional Viennese café culture to the U.S., he also opened Café Sabarsky within the gallery.

The café’s name honors Otto Sabarsky, an Austrian architect who, along with Josef Hoffmann, co-founded the Wiener Werkstätte (Vienna Workshop).

Highlights

Klimt’s “Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer I”

The original painting is displayed at the gallery. Just viewing Klimt’s art can uplift many people, including myself. His use of color is truly magnificent.

You might wanna gets some klimt items

Klimt magcup KISS : https://amzn.to/4guxnW2

Klimt Tumbler：https://amzn.to/411wiAq

エゴン・シーレの自画像シリーズなど

Egon Schiele collection：https://amzn.to/3WO8lKi

Bookstore

You can buy some European books and goods here

Summary

This time, I introduced Café Sabarsky. When you visit New York, be sure to check out Café Sabarsky, where you can enjoy both art and a delightful café experience. It’s also conveniently close to the Guggenheim Museum and the Cooper Hewitt Museum, so it might be a great addition to your itinerary.

For those living in New York, it would be a fun outing with friends or a partner. The Austrian and German dinner menu is also something that caught my attention.

Related Article: Lady Gaga’s Alma Mater

Access Information

Address: 1048 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10028
Nearest Station: 86th Street Station, about a 5-minute walk

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What is the appeal of reading the English books by American author Walter Isaacson?

Who is Walter Isaacson?

If you suddenly hear the name Walter Isaacson, you might not know who he is, right? I know the titles of his books, but I can’t remember his name.

Isaacson is a very famous biographer in the United States. His rise to fame probably came from the success of his book about Steve Jobs. When I read that book, I thought, “Wow, it’s so easy to read!” There are difficult words, but the flow of the book makes it easy to read.

This time, I want to introduce four autobiographies from Isaacson’s books about people who have had a significant impact on global growth, not just in America.

First, Kindle is a must-have

Do you use Kindle? I’ve been using my Kindle for 10 years now. It’s an excellent device because it allows you to store an enormous number of books in an electronic dictionary format.

Isaacson’s books are autobiographies, so they are thick and heavy. I have the hardcover version of Steve Jobs, and it makes my arms hurt. Everyone, it’s much easier to read on Kindle. You can read quietly on the train or in the library as well.

https://amzn.to/3XYEf7p

Steve Jobs

Steve Jobs is the founder of Apple. This work introduces the life of Steve Jobs, who garnered praise for his creativity and made a significant contribution to the development of America. Jobs was famously known for his difficult personality. To realize new ideas and creations, he would often resort to harsh words. The point that I find most intriguing is, what drove him so much? Was his feeling towards his real parents resentment? And was he truly happy?

Einstein: His Life and Universe

This book portrays Einstein’s personality and the background of his work. It’s a great read that helps reaffirm the significance of “chasing dreams” and “proven knowledge.” Personally, I also want to explore the concept of the scientist’s guilt, much like with Oppenheimer. It reminds me of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein world. Einstein moved to the United States.

Elon Musk

I believe this is the book you should read first right now. Given that the next Trump administration is trying to effectively utilize the situation to realize the world he envisions, learning about his character is incredibly important.

This book offers insights into Elon Musk’s energy, problem-solving methods, and his ambition. For those who want to learn about Elon’s life as an entrepreneur, it’s an enjoyable and educational read. By improving your English reading comprehension, you can also learn the thought processes of someone active at the forefront. Additionally, his complex relationship with his father is another noteworthy aspect of the book.

Benjamin Franklin: An American Life

I’ve read other autobiographies about Benjamin Franklin, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States. I’d like to read this one too. He’s the guy on the $100 bill. But did you know that he was the one who discovered that lightning is electricity? How genius is that!? What I found impressive in his other biographies was his social skills and writing abilities. I suspect that the author of this book, Walter Isaacson, might even admire him.

Summary

By reading Isaacson’s books, you can learn how just a few individuals changed not only America but the entire world. Of course, they can also offer valuable lessons for personal life. I think they might even help in predicting the future of the world. Especially since Elon Musk has now entered the political arena, assisting President Trump, it might be worth reading his story.

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The Appeal of Capital One Bank: Popular Café-Integrated Service in New York

Capital One Bank in New York: Why It’s So Popular

Hello! I’m Maegami, the author of the “Goddess’s Bangs” blog, based in New York. For those living in the U.S. or New York, which bank do you use? There are various banks depending on the state. I personally use Bank of America and Capital One Bank.

What I Love About Capital One Bank

What I think is the best feature of Capital One Bank is that transferring money from another bank is free. For example, if I transfer $500 from Bank of America to this bank, there’s no fee. The same applies if it’s the other way around. There are many other great points, so today, I’d like to share them with you.

Why Capital One is Popular

Simple and Easy-to-Understand Banking Services

For me, the most appealing aspect of Capital One is its simplicity. As I mentioned earlier, their “simplicity” is key. Their 360 Performance Savings and 360 Checking accounts are great for first-time account holders because they come with no minimum balance requirement, making it easy to start. I personally only have a savings account, but I’m also interested in the checking one.

Excellent Online Banking

In New York, where every day is busy, Capital One’s app makes checking your balance and transferring money incredibly easy and free. There’s no need to visit the branch. The online banking at Bank of America is a bit complicated, which can be a hurdle for those who aren’t proficient in English. But Capital One is user-friendly even for those who don’t speak much English.

Popular Credit Cards

When you think of Capital One, you think of credit cards. The Capital One Venture Rewards card is especially popular because it allows you to earn points quickly when traveling and also provides lounge access benefits. However, this card might be better for those traveling frequently within the U.S. rather than internationally.

Capital One Café: A Relaxing Space

What I’m particularly recommending today is the “Capital One Café,” where you can enjoy coffee while at the bank. It’s amazing that you can now drink real coffee at a bank! Previously, cafés would offer instant coffee, but I never tried it since I knew it wouldn’t taste good. Most banks have a stiff atmosphere, but Capital One Café is more of a “chill café.”

Stylish and Relaxing Atmosphere

The café has a modern, sophisticated design that is very much in tune with New York. The interior is relaxing, and there are bright window-side seats and sofa seating where you can take a break if you’re tired from walking around the city. The shop displays at the entrance are also cute.

High-Quality Coffee

At the café, you can enjoy delicious coffee from Peet’s Coffee. If you have a Capital One credit card or Capital One Checking account, you can get 50% off your drink. Unfortunately, I couldn’t use this benefit since I only have a savings account, which is a downside.

Kind and Helpful Service

The café offers free Wi-Fi and charging stations, making it perfect for working or meeting friends. There are also bank staff on-site, so you can easily get advice on things like mortgages and credit cards. It’s a bit surprising how far banking has evolved.

My Favorite Capital One Cafés

There are several Capital One Cafés in New York, but my two top recommendations are:

Union Square Location Perfect for when you want a bright, relaxing atmosphere. The large windows let in plenty of natural light, which really boosts your mood! Address: 853 Broadway, New York, NY 10003
Chelsea Location I recommend this location for art lovers. The walls are decorated with works by local New York artists, making it feel more like an art gallery than a bank. Address: 114 7th Ave, New York, NY 10011

Summary

Capital One is a little different from other banks in the U.S. It’s a bank that’s all about “simplicity,” and that’s what makes it so easy to understand. Their café is a “relaxing space” with “convenient financial services.”

Capital One Bank Website

Related Articles

ABRSM How to Easily Pass the Grade 5 Theory Exam?

How to Easily Pass the ABRSM Grade 5 Theory Exam

Estimated reading time: 5 minutes

Hello everyone! This is Maegami from the blog Megami no Maegami. I also teach piano in New York, and today I’m sharing information about the ABRSM, the Royal Schools of Music exams from the UK.

What happens when you reach the highest ABRSM level in the U.S.?

What is ABRSM Grade 5 Theory?

The ABRSM Grade 5 Theory exam is a prerequisite for advancing to Grade 6 performance exams. Since Grade 6 involves more difficult pieces, a solid understanding of music theory is essential to learn and interpret complex works from different eras.

Understanding the Content of the ABRSM Theory Exam

In Grade 5, the following topics will be covered:

Understanding music symbols and terms
Chord structure and identification (triads)
Understanding key signatures and tonality (major and minor)
Simple composition and rhythm completion

Get Music Theory Test Samples

Sample Papers and Model Answers -Purchase through Amazon – click the link.

Disclosure: This post contains Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

First, purchase some music theory test samples. It’s recommended to get around three sets, as practicing with these will help you get used to the types of questions that will appear on the exam. You can write on the first set to get a better understanding. Going through them multiple times will help you memorize what’s being tested. It’s not efficient to dive straight into textbooks right away, so I don’t recommend that approach.

Download the ABRSM Official App

As mentioned earlier, jumping straight into studying from a Grade 5 textbook might be difficult, as it skips over content from Grades 1–4. You can certainly study with textbooks for those earlier grades, but it’s an outdated method, especially if you’re busy with school or work. This could take more than six months.

For those who want to save time, try downloading a paid app (about $3) to study in a game-like format. The app features characters like Pam and a cat, with quizzes and jokes. However, be aware that it uses British English, so for example, “quarter note” is referred to as “crotchet” in the UK. The app also teaches you all the terms used in music theory.

It’s also great for anyone wanting to learn music theory!

Purchase the ABRSM Official Textbooks

Using ABRSM’s official workbooks will help you familiarize yourself with the format of the exam. The two books I recommend are:

Music Theory in Practice (Grade 5) – Purchase through Amazon -please click the link.

Incorporate Efficient Study Methods

Short but focused study sessions: Aim for 20–30 minutes per day to study a little each day.
Practice with past papers: Solve past exam papers several times to get a feel for the exam’s style.
Use online videos: Watch free explanatory videos on YouTube to get extra help.

What Might Be the Most Challenging?

For me, the most difficult part of the exam is rhythm. Make sure you study rhythm thoroughly. Also, don’t neglect music terms. You can easily lose points here, so make sure to memorize these terms to ensure you score well.

Don’t Forget Last-Minute Preparations!

One week before the exam, focus on reviewing the following:

Basic knowledge of key signatures and chord progressions
Memorize music terms and symbols (like “rit.” or “poco”)
Revisit any troublesome question types

Summary

The key to passing the ABRSM Grade 5 Theory exam is to work backwards. First, get an overview of the whole exam by looking at test samples. Then, start focusing on your weaker areas. Additionally, the official app makes learning music theory fun, helping you build your foundational knowledge.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

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Cafe HARBS :Recommended Points

What is HARBS?

HARBS New York:

Hello everyone, this is Maegami from the blog Goddess Bangs. Today, I’m sharing my recommendation for a café.

After the pandemic, I finally visited HARBS in New York for the first time. HARBS is a café and patisserie originally from Japan, famous for its cakes and sweets made with fresh fruits. I used to visit their Chelsea location often, but unfortunately, it closed. The Upper East Side location also shut down.

This time, I visited their Soho location in New York. The Chelsea store used to be a small and cute café, while the Soho location offers a more sophisticated interior with a calm atmosphere, exuding a sense of luxury.

The Charms of HARBS Soho:

Cakes So Popular They Sell Out
HARBS cakes are known for blending the delicate tastes of Japan with the large portions typical of American desserts. Especially the “Mille Crepes” and “Strawberry Cake,” which are packed with fruits and offer a light sweetness.
Seasonal Limited Menu
One of the highlights is the seasonal limited menu, which uses fresh fruits and ingredients based on the time of year. For example, in autumn, you can enjoy the “Marron Cake” made with chestnuts, and in summer, there’s the tropical “Tropical Tart” filled with unusual fruits, allowing you to feel the essence of the season.
Relaxed Café Time
The Soho HARBS has a spacious interior with bright window-side seats, perfect for enjoying a chat with friends or a quiet time reading a book. It’s also an ideal spot to drop by during a sightseeing tour.

Recommended Menu Items:

Mille Crepe: Thin layers of crepe stacked with rich cream, and the perfect balance with fruits. It has a light, melt-in-your-mouth texture that makes it addictive.
Strawberry Cake: Fresh strawberries with making it look as beautiful as it tastes. The slightly sweet cream matches it, which is why it’s so popular in America.
Royal Milk Tea: A fragrant royal milk tea that pairs wonderfully with the cakes, creating a relaxing tea time.

Access Information:

Address: 465 W Broadway, New York, NY 10012
Hours: Monday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Nearest Station: A 5-minute walk from Spring St Station, making it conveniently located near popular tourist spots.

Why Visit HARBS Soho?

HARBS is a rare café in New York where you can enjoy Japanese hospitality and high-quality sweets. It’s the perfect spot to stop by during a sightseeing or shopping trip to recharge.

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