NEW YORK – A wedge of cabbage… hanging over a cocktail glass? Yes – but only for a “Borscht Martini”! Conjuring such a rara avis (recipe at close of this article) was one of many prequel videos on the website of the Ukrainian Institute of America (UIA) prior to kickoff for its October 25 “2020 Gala Honoring all Ukrainian Medical Personnel.” The goal was to raise $72,000 (this year is the 72nd year of the UIA).
UIA board members spun lively commentaries in real time. The center-piece was an informative “Fireside Chat” about COVID-19, flanked by many pre-filmed messages from artists and notables, plus assorted musical performances from near and far. For online viewers, UIA’s website offered videos of past events at UIA.