Covering The Multicultural Asian American Community in Georgia
www.gasiantimes.com
May 1-15, 2016
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May 1-15, 2016 Georgia Asian Times
Georgia Asian Times May 1-15, 2016
Publisher: Li Wong Account Manager: Adrian West Contributors: Andrian Putra, May Lee, Mark Ho, Helen Nguyen Photographer: Ben Hioe
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GAT Calendar of Events GAT welcome submission of announcement pertaining to community related events. Please email event, date, venue, and time to gat@gasiantimes.com. GAT does not guarantee insertion of event announcement and has the right to deny any posting.
Asian/Pacific American Council of Georgia (APAC) Annual Gala Date: Saturday, May 7, 2016 Time: 6:00 pm Venue: Sonesta Gwinnett Place “Think Asia, Think Hong Kong” Guest Speaker: Ralph Chow, Regional Director, Americas of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council Presented by Hong Kong Association, Atlanta Date: June 1, 2016 Time: 3:30 pm - 6:15 pm Venue: City Club of Buckhead, 3343 Peachtree Road, Suite 1850, Atlanta GA 30326 For more info: www.hongkongatlanta. com RSVP required by May 25, 2016 “CelebrAsian 2016” USPAACC National Procurement Conference Date: May 31, 2016 Venue: Hyatt Regency Atlanta For more info: www.celebrasianconference.com
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GAT 25 Most Influential Asian Americans in Georgia - Awards Gala Date: Tuesday, July 12, 2016 Time: 6:30 pm Venue: Sonesta Gwinnett Place For sponsorship & registration, please email: gat@gasiantimes.com 21st Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival Date: Saturday, Sept 10, 2016 Time: 7:00 am-6:00 pm Venue: Lake Laneir Olympic Kayak Facility, Gainesville For more info: dragonboatatlanta.com 12th Atlanta Asian Film Festival Date: Oct 7-22, 2016 Venues: KSU, GPC Dunwoody, UWG, Plaza Theatre For more info: atlaff.org
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May 1-15, 2016 Georgia Asian Times
25 Most Influential Asian Americans in Georgia In the spirit of 2016 Asian American Heritage Month celebration, we are documenting the changing of power and the continual shifting of influence of Asian Americans in our communities. This year’s offer a listing of individuals who made an impact in arts, business, government, politics, social work, education, judiciary, and areas that influence every aspect of Georgian’s daily life. Some names are familiar as they continue to strive to make our community a better place to live. New faces are recognized for their effort and dedication to make a difference in the community. The list is made possible by the editorial staff and a selection committee comprises of community, civic, and media representatives.
Observer” in Raleigh, N.C., where she covered local schools, local government, community, youth culture, and diverse groups within the communities. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Print Journalism and Mass Communications from the University of Georgia, with a minor in Comparative Literature. She also received her Master of Business Administration from Georgia State University.
companies like Walmart, Fedex, GM, Disney, CVS Caremark. He also serves on various advisory board of start up companies in US and India
Sudhir Agarwal Senior Business Consultant Hewlett Packard Sudhir Agarwal completed his bachelors in Computer Engineering from Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Varanasi, India and MBA in Finance and Strategy from Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Lucknow, India. He is currently working as Principal Business Consultant with Hewlett Packard Enterprise and providing strategy solutions to Fortune 100
Sudhir Agarwal is one of the three leaders (permanent positions) of Indian Professionals Network that meets on a monthly basis. He represents the Indian community on the Board of Asian/Pacific-American Council of Georgia. He is a key leader of Rajasthani Association of Georgia (RAJA) that organizes events in Rajasthani language for people from that NW state in India. He also played a crucial role in organizing the International Day of Yoga on June 21, 2015, under the request of the Consul General of India. More importantly, he is a team player that works tirelessly and readily contributes to the benefit of the community. His enthusiasm, smile and positive spirit is commendable.
Meiling Arounnarath President Laotian American Society Meiling is currently a program manager at InComm, a financial technology company headquartered in Atlanta. She has held the role of a client liaison at Meditech, a healthcare software company in Atlanta. And she has also been a reporter and staff writer for the metro daily newspaper “The News &
As for her volunteer work, Meiling was a volunteer writer and editor for the national “Lao Roots Magazine.” She was co-vice president of print for the North Carolina chapter of the Asian American Journalists Association (AAJA) and was a treasurer for the Atlanta chapter of AAJA. During the rest of her spare time, not only does she volunteer with other organizations around Atlanta, she also enjoys cooking, traveling, and writing.
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25 Most Influential Asian Americans in Georgia Estrella Cramer Director, Corporate Supplier Diversity UPS Estrella Cramer is the Corporate Supplier Diversity Director in UPS. She has more than 27 years of service across the different business units/ functions in UPS including Finance, Procurement, Marketing, Product Development and Supply Chain. She was the Asia Pac Sarbanes Oxley Audit Coordinator for all UPS locations in Asia in 2004. Estrella is the Chairperson of the UPS Asian Business Resource Group Community Connections Committee. She serves in the board of several organizations and an active member in various Advisory Councils: Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC), Georgia Minority Supplier Development Council (GMSDC), Georgia Women Business Council (GWBC), Business Consortium Fund (BCF), Board Chair and VP of Finance for the US-Pan Asian American Chamber of Commerce Southeast Chapter (USPAACC-SE), Certification Committee for GWBC, Corporate Mentor in the Georgia Mentor Protégé Connections (GMPC) program, Advisory
Kevin Do Realtor, Re/Max Grand South Partner, Alliance Consulting Enterprise Kevin immigrated to U.S. in 1993 at the age of nine through the Humanitarian Operation Program. He is a graduate of Georgia State University with a Bachelor of Business Administration - Banking and Finance. Kevin is actively promoting youth involvement in social and community services in the Vietnamese American community. He also volunteers and provide his leadership for various events such as Tet Spring Festival and Asian Cultural Experience. Kevin also actively promotes civic engagement and the importance of voting in his community.
Council for the Georgia Tech IAC Women’s Entrepreneurship Program, Enterprising Women, Kennesaw State University Asian Studies Advisory, National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) Procurement Council, US Business Leadership Network (USBLN) Procurement Council She is the recipient of numerous awards, including DiversityPlus Magazine 2016 Top 25 Women in Power Impacting Diversity, 2014/2016 Corporate Women of Achievement from YWCA, 2013-2015 25 Most Influential Asian American in Georgia by Georgia Asian Times, 2014 OCA National Corporate and Community Achievement Award and Outstanding Georgia Citizen by the Secretary of State. Estrella graduated Cum Laude from the University of St. Thomas in Manila Philippines and pursued an MBA degree in Iona College, New York.
Kazuyoshi “Yoshi” Domoto Executive Director Japan-American Society of Georgia Since 2004, Kazuyoshi “Yoshi” Domoto has dedicated his career to promoting the mutual understanding between the people of Japan and the Unites States through establishing and promoting ties and programs in the areas of business, culture, customs, education, commerce, politics, and social networking with The Japan-America Society of Georgia (JASG). Committed to the belief that cultural exchange and business development are key elements in bridging people together, Yoshi has worked tirelessly to expand innovative programs, projects, and services to the Georgia community that have resulted in a stronger relationship between the Japanese and American community. Under his leadership, the JASG received the Commendation from the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Japan in 2010, and has been awarded grant funding from a variety
of foundations including the Japan Foundation, Center for Global Partnership, Henri & Tomoye Takahashi Charitable Foundation, Georgia Council for the Arts, South Arts, Astellas Pharma, and the National Association of Asian-American Professionals Chopstix for Charity among others. Yoshi has served as the Executive Director of the JASG since 2008 and currently serves on the Executive Committee of the National Association of Japan-America Societies (NAJAS), based in Washington, D.C. He also currently serves on the Advisory Council for the Symposium on ASIA-USA Partnership Opportunities (SAUPO). Yoshi received a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from Atlanta’s Oglethorpe University and is currently seeking an MA in Applied Linguistics from Georgia State University.
Charlene Fang Vice Chair DeKalb County Property Board of Assessors Charlene Fang has been a stalwart within the Asian community promoting both business and cultural events. She is instrumental in insuring that local officials are always involved with and attending a wide variety of Asian cultural events. She has been especially instrumental in involving both the Chamblee and Doraville Police Departments in dragon boating. She has even helped to raise funds for their travels to festivals in both New York City and Miami, Florida. She is instrumental in organizing and leading a project to build a park in DeKalb County to honor fallen Police Officers. She is a
Board member of the National Association of Chinese American and the the Hong Kong Association of Atlanta.
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May 1-15, 2016 Georgia Asian Times
25 Most Influential Asian Americans in Georgia Dr. May Gao Asian Studies Coordinator Professor of Communication & Asian Studies Kennesaw State University Dr. May Hongmei Gao is a Professor of Communication and Asian Studies at Kennesaw State University in Atlanta, GA since 2004. Dr. Gao conducts research in communication, Asian Studies, business, and conflict resolution. The focus of her current research is on global business expansion strategies for companies in Asia Pacific. Dr. Gao is the Founder and Chair of the Symposium on ASIA-USA Partnership Opportunities (SAUPO), the largest Asia business conference in the U. S. SAUPO has become a platform for information exchange, network building, global visibility, and cross border investment. She is also instrumental in leading to the approval of first Asian Studies Undergraduate Program in Georgia at KSU by Georgia’s Board of Regents. Dr. Gao has provided business communication consulting service for Duracell, P&G, Nanfu, Euramax,
tvsdesign, Tyson Chicken, Taiping Carpets, Cobb Vantress, and Kids’R’Kids China. Both “The White House Initiative on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders” and “Asian American Heritage Foundation” recognize Dr. Gao for her leadership in enhancing business with and education on Asia. Georgia Asian Times named Dr. Gao as one of the “25 Most Influential Asian Americans in Georgia (2013).” Dr. Gao holds a Ph.D. in Communication from the University of South Florida, an MA in Mass Communication from Brigham Young University and a BA in English from Shanghai International Studies University. Dr. Gao worked as a PR Specialist in the University of Science and Technology of China from 19891998, and as a TV Anchorwoman at Anhui Television Station from 19941998. She came to BYU for her graduate education in 1998.
Dr. Hai Ho Chairman United Vietnamese American Community of Georgia (UVAC)
Dr Indrakrishnan is a Clinical Professor of Medicine at the Emory University School of Medicine and has his private practice in Lawrenceville, GA. He is the immediate past president of GAPI- Georgia Association of Physicians of Indian heritage. He is a past president and currently in the board of directors of Georgia Gastroenterological and Endoscopic Society. He has served and has been serving on numerous committees of American College of Physicians, the American College of Gastroenterology and the Medical Association of Georgia. Dr. Indrakrishnan has won many distinguished awards from national and international scientific organizations. Dr Indrakrishnan has a passion for educating the public on colorectal cancers. Governor Nathan Deal signed proclamations declaring March month as the colorectal cancer awareness month in Georgia for the last 3 years – the last one being March 2016 - at Dr Indrakrishnan’s request. He helps the Atlanta VA Hospital and its deserved veterans by performing cancer screening colonoscopies on Saturday mornings.
Miyuki Johnson Japanese language teacher Elkins Point Middle School, Fulton County
Dr. Ho is currently Associate Professor at Kennesaw State University, where he teaches Engineering and Management, and coaches the young aspiring generation. He is also the Vice-Chair of the Symposium on ASIA-USA Partnership (SAUPO), one of the largest Asian business conferences in the United States. His other role is acting Chair of the Vietnamese-American Leadership Foundation (VALF), helping to build relations and process to secure and distribute funds for leadership and professional development. Prior to this, Dr. Ho spent 25 years in the industry and was in various senior executive roles at Fortune-500 companies,
Dr. Indran B. Indrakrishnan Gastroenterologist Gwinnett Digestive Clinic
most notably, Vice President of R&D at Newell Rubbermaid and HID Global. He has expertise in strategic planning, leadership, and organization management. Dr. Ho is passionate about advancing and to enable Asian Americans to break through corporate obstacles and achieve leadership success. He holds 17 patents and a Ph.D. degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Colorado.
Miyuki Johnson is a Japanese language teacher at Elkins Point Middle School in Fulton County, Georgia. She has contributed much to promoting and expanding Japanese language education, encouraging not only students, but the whole community to take interest in Japanese culture through various educational and exchange activities. In 2014, Miyuki received the “Teacher of the Year Award” from the Fulton County School System for her
Dr Indrakrishnan is in the board of directors of Meals by Grace, a nonprofit organization by Grace Chapel church in Cumming, Forsyth County which provides food for poor hungry children and their families identified by school counselors and dept. of community health of Georgia. In addition, he is in the advisory board of Third eye dancers, a Georgia based not for profit organization which communicates social issues affecting children, through dance and prompting action while raising funds for the same through cultural events. He is in the leadership council of American India Foundation, a NPO helping rural communities with educational & job opportunities. He is in the board of trustees of Hindu temple of Atlanta, GA. In January 2016, he was honored with the globally reputed “Bharat Gaurav Award” and a Certificate of Excellence by the India International Friendship Society (IIFS).
achievements, dedication, and commitment to excellence. Miyuki originates from Niigata Prefecture and attended Gumaken College in Tokyo. From an early age, she was inspired to be a teacher by her father who was an educator and a school principal in Japan. She is instrumental with student exchange programs between her school and various schools in Japan. Miyuki’s contribution to promoting Japanese language education and culture was recognized with an award by the Japanese Foreign Ministry in December 2015.
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25 Most Influential Asian Americans in Georgia Hyung Kim CEO, Clean Net Atlanta A passionate individual with a magnetic personality. Kim has work tirelessly for the past two years and fund raise for the Korean American Association of Greater Atlanta. He also revived the Atlanta Korean Golfers Association and organized several tournaments including “Peach Cup Open” where over 140 golfers participated. It also successfully fund-raise over $70,000 for KAAGA Center’s renovation. He also made positive contributions to Atlanta Seniors Association and various Korean-related cultural activities.
Shandry Law Co-founder & Entreprenuer Farmer’s Basket Restaurant Mrs. Shandry Law is an accomplished and successful entrepreneur in the metro Atlanta restaurant industry. She and her husband are proud owners of the popular Farmer’s Basket Restaurant, a mall-based food court restaurant chain that serves great fresh Southern Food with stores in major malls in Atlanta, including Lenox Square, Cumberland Mall, Perimeter Mall, North Point Mall, Mall of Georgia, Southlake Mall, Town Center at Cobb and one in Riverchase Galleria in Alabama.
Member in CCC (Chinese Community Center), CBAA (Chinese Business Association of Atlanta), Kwong Tung Association of Atlanta and the Chair of the Board of CACPG (Chinese American Cultural Performing Group).
Shandry Law is an active philanthrophist in the Chinese community in metro Atlanta and Georgia. She supports various Chinese Community organizations and is a Board
Tim Le Broker/Owner Atlanta Maxim Realty International Sopheap Lam Co-Founder, Cambodian-American Association of Georgia Vice President, Asian Pacific American Council of Georgia Sopheap Lam is an energetic leader that works tirelessly to serve in the Cambodian American community. She is working to galvanize and to promote unity among affinity groups. Sopheap has displayed leadership, organizational and fundraising skills in her daily work in the community. A stay-at-home mom, she is able to find time to give back to the communities while raising three grade school children with her husband.
Tim began his career as a mechanical engineer for NEC Electronics USA, specializing in CVD semiconductor manufacturing. After 5 ½ years as a senior equipment engineer, he decided to become a full-time entrepreneur with his main focus on real estate development and project management. He formed multiple real estate partnerships and is currently the broker/owner of Atlanta Maxim Realty International in Peachtree Corners Georgia. Tim is also involved with multiple professional boards and community organizations including BPSOS, Asian Real Estate Association of America, Atlanta Chapter, Past President; Vietnamese American Chamber of Commerce, Founding Board Member; Gwinnett Village Community Alliance, Board member; Gwinnett Village CID, Board Member and, Leadership Gwinnett Alumni 2011. He was recognized by the Georgia Asian
Times as one of the 25 Most Influential Asian Americans in Georgia in 2010 & 2012. Tim holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from California Polytechnic State University of Pomona, Engineer in Training certification from the California Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors, a Georgia real estate broker licensee.
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May 1-15, 2016 Georgia Asian Times
25 Most Influential Asian Americans in Georgia Fu-Tai Lu Senior Radiology Technologist, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Chairman, Chinese Community Center President, ROC’s Veteran Association of Atlanta Fu-Tai Lu’s main goal is to foster harmony within the Taiwanese community in the Atlanta metro area. Although busy with the responsibilities of his demanding career, he dedicates his spare time to community service. Lu’s strength is his ability to encourage cooperation among various segments of the Taiwanese community and to include other members of the diverse population of Asian Ameri-
Randy Muth Executive Director Angkor Resource Center (ARC)
cans in the area. Lu’s leadership helps to foster communication and collaboration among varying interest groups so they can embark on joint efforts to benefit the community as a whole.
Randy Muth has worked relentlessly to help the Cambodian immigrant community assimilate to American way of life in Georgia. Despite facing many challenges, he has successfully organized a community social center to help low income minorities become healthy and self-sufficient residents in Riverdale, Georgia. The community center provided free ESL programs, educate community on financial literacy, citizenship classes, assist low income residents with social benefits, translation services, and civic engagement.
Dan Sok Ly Vice President Cambodian Buddhist Society
David Nguyen Restaurant owner and Entrepreneur
Dan Sok Ly was born in Phnom Penh, Cambodia and emigrated to the United States of America in January of 1982 along with his mother, sister and brother as a refugee. He arrived in the U.S. as a refugee and took the opportunity to earn a Bachelor of Science in Electronics Engineering Technology. Currently working as a Senior Engineer in the Technical Center Department at TDK Components USA, Inc. in Peachtree City, Georgia.
At the young age of early 30s, David Nguyen has far exceeded many of his peers in entrepreneurship. Grounded by strong business mentality set forth by his family and mentors, Nguyen has set a strong footprint in the restaurant industry in Atlanta by promoting Asian culture through traditional Asian cuisine. He successfully operates Nam Phuong Restaurant with his parents, and recently opened Ba Bellies, an Asian gastropub featuring traditional Asian dishes cooked in innovative techniques.
Dan enjoys helping the community to promote Cambodian heritage and culture. Dan was also the founder of the Cambodian Student Association of Georgia, created as a forum for college and high school Cambodian students to meet, assist each other, and to perpetuate their rich heritage as Cambodian Americans. Dan has served as Secretary at Trai Rattanaram Temple in Riverdale, Georgia for four years. In 2006, he joined the Cambodian Buddhist Society, Inc. in Lithonia, Georgia and was elected as the President for four terms.
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25 Most Influential Asian Americans in Georgia Tramy Nguyen President Vietnamese-American Community of Georgian (VAC-GA) Tramy Nguyen came to US in1991 at the age of 17 through the Humanitarian Operation Program with her siblings and parents. She and her husband Nguyen Wayne Pha owns and operate an auto dealer, WT AutoMax in Morrow Georgia since 2004. Tramy is actively involved with the Union of Vietnamese Student Association from GA State University since 1995. She earned a bachelor degree in Business Administration at Clayton State University. She is passionate in promoting and encouraging Vietnamese American citizens to register to vote. Participate with lobbying and election candidate activities. As a former refugee, Tramy is aware of the daily challenges and needs of immigrant communities - she has dedicated her time and ef-
Congratulations! fort in community outreach in Morrow, Forest Park, Clarkston, Gwinnett County, DeKalb County, and Clayton County. As President of VAC GA, she is passionate in promoting Vietnamese heritage and cultures.
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Sarah Park International Marketing Coordinator (Explore Gwinnett) Sarah Park work tirelessly in bridging the gap between the local hospitality community and Asian American residents. In 2016, Sarah was instrumental in leading the first Asian food tour for the media in hopes to educate and further bridge the gap between communities. In addition to working with Explore Gwinnett and Gwinnett Sports Commission, Sarah also serves as a translator and volunteers in the community regularly. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for Korean Food Globalization Committee (S.E. USA & Korean American Restaurant Association of GA).
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Eleanor Mae Pascual Paralegal State Farm Insurance Companies Eleanor Mae Pascual is a respected leader and mentor in the Filipino-American community. She serves as Community Affairs Director of Makabayan Georgia, Inc., a 501(c)(3) non-profit Filipino-American foundation. She served as President of the Philippine American Chamber of Commerce of Georgia for two consecutive years, in 2014 and 2015. She is a longtime active member of the Filipino-American Association of Greater Atlanta (Fil-Am), having served in various leadership roles, including as Fil-Am President. She also serves as a Board Member of the Philippine American Center of Georgia, Inc. Eleanor is a bridge-builder between the Fil-Am community and the larger AAPI community in Georgia. Eleanor is currently employed as a paralegal with State Farm Insurance Companies
(Corporate Law Department). She was recently recognized by State Farm as the recipient of a 2015 Volunteer of the Year Award, in recognition of her various volunteer efforts in the community.
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May 1-15, 2016 Georgia Asian Times
25 Most Influential Asian Americans in Georgia
Ann Rithmyxay Director of Home Healthcare Services M&S Homecare Services
Ann is heavily involved with SEARAC, Southeast Asia Resource Action Center, a well-established leadership training program. SEARAC is a national organization that advances the interests of Asian Americans by empowering communities through advocacy, leadership development, and capacity building. Ann actively volunteers her time and shares her knowledge with NAAAP - National Association of American Professionals, OCA Organization of Chinese American, and LANA - Laotian American National Alliance, Inc., where she once served as board member.
Ann Rithmyxay is an inspiring leader with entrepreneurial instinct and deep compassion for community improvement. She co-founded and served as President of the Georgia chapter of the Laotian American Society, where she united the Laotian community into an impressive network, working together for the mutual purpose of cultural preservation and advancement.
With her passion and care for the welfare of the community, she was inspired to introduce home care program to the most underserved communities such as Laotian-American, Cambodian-American and Vietnamese-American. Through M&S Homecare Services, Ann relieved some major burdens among families when facing aging or illness.
Lee U. Shreve President Korean American Foundation Atlanta Operation Service Manager, Delta Airline With a doctorate in religious education and a Christian missionary herself, Shreve has made positive contribution and shown compassion to the communities in metro Atlanta. She is also passionate in promoting Korean heritage and traditional cultures through fashion (Hanbok Korean traditional costume). She is instrumental in promoting Hanbok awareness at various multicultural events including Korean American Day ceremony at Georgia Capitol and at Korean traditional costume exhibition at at Hartsfield Jackson International Airport. She is involved with several charities including Loving Heart, Mission Agape, and Good People International.
Pia Dina Valeriano President Philippine American Chamber of Commerce Georgia Serving as coordinator for Academic Services at the Hubert Department of Global Health at Emory University in Atlanta, Pia Dina Valeriano finds time to get involved in the Filipino and Asian communities. This rising leader was noticed when she became the 2nd president of PAWAG (the Philippine American Women’s Association of Georgia), helping make a difference in the lives of women in Georgia. With this exceptional group of women, she helped Filipino women who fell victim to domestic abuse, provided temporary basic needs and instant emotional support. With her leadership skills, she was appointed in 2015 as the new chair of the Kalayaan Committee (of Filipino Leaders in Georgia) to organize the 2015 Kalayaan Celebrations Statewide for the 117th Anniversary of Philippine Independence. In 2015 she was elected as the in-coming president
Joli Wu Instructor The Westminster Schools & The Georgia Academy of Music Joli Wu is the principal violist of the Atlanta Ballet Orchestra, and a section member of the Atlanta Opera Orchestra. Wu has previously served as acting principal violist of the Atlanta Opera. She regularly performs and teaches throughout the Asian and Atlanta community. During the summer months, she is frequently performing and teaching in Europe. A dedicated musician, she has coached and taught numerous violin and viola students from throughout Georgia. Wu has also performed with numerous symphonies around the Atlanta area.
for PACCGA (the Philippine-American Chamber of Commerce of Georgia). Pia holds an MBA from DeVry University and has been with the Hubert Department of Global Health at Emory University since 1998. She is actively promoting entrepreneurship and business networking among business in metro Atlanta and Georgia. Pia owns and operate a bed and breakfast resort at one of the islands at her native Philippines. Despite her busy schedule, Pia finds time to volunteer in community outreach and cultural celebrations.
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Georgia Asian Times
Asian American Spirit Award
In the spirit of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, we honor groups who inspire others through their own acts of service, sacrifice, initiative and generosity—particularly in the areas of leadership, service to country or community and education. This prestigious honor is bestowed upon organizations who demonstrate extraordinary dedication to the principles that strengthen America’s communities. Through their work and philanthropy, Asian American Spirit Award recipients exemplify the highest standards of integrity, discipline, and initiative while making unselfish contributions to their community, state, or the nation.
American Korean Friendship Society (AKFS)
National Association of Chinese Americans (NACA)
Established in 1996, the American Korean Friendship Society (AKFS) is a non-profit and non-political civic organization with the mission of promoting and strengthening the unique relationship between the people of the Republic of Korea and the United States of America.
The National Association of Chinese-Americans (NACA) is dedicated to the advancement of cordial relationships between the United States and China. It is a non-profit organization, which was founded in 1977 by Dr. Cheng Ning Yang, a Nobel laureate in Physics. It’s initial objective was to assist in achieving and promoting full diplomatic recognition between these two countries.
AKFS actively champion and remembers the sacrifices by Georgia’s War Veterans who had served in the Korean War. It also organizes an annual memorial event at the Georgia’s State Capitol where remaining living Korean War veterans are being honored. AKFS also organize and host the “New American Hero Award” - honoring Americans of Korean ancestry who has made a significant contribution to the United States. Past recipients were Dr. Tom Kim of Knoxville, TN, who founded the Free Clinic for Working Poor and who has operated the clinic for more than twelve years and Lieutenant Colonel John Oh, medical doctor of US Army, for his heroic service at the war fields in Afghanistan. In 2013, the New American Hero Award was conferred to Dr. Sammy Lee, first Asian American two-times Olympic Gold Medalist. In 2015, the late James Suh, Petty Officer, US Navy Seal and Captain Jason Pak, United States Army (retired) were both honored with the award and a $10,000 cash donations by the society. American Korean Friendship Society has been honored as a recipient of GAT “Asian American Spirit Award” for its valor and dedication in remembering the sacrifices of Americans.
The Atlanta Chapter of NACA has continued to organize and sponsor activities that bring together Chinese dignitaries, local Georgia government officials as well as community and business leaders. NACA’s mission has been as a facilitator to promote cultural, educational, scientific and business relationships between these parties. It also strongly encourages Chinese-Americans to participate in the American political process while preserving Chinese heritage in the American culture. NACA is known to bridging cultures by hosting various delegations between the U.S. and China, and taking on projects that promote business, economics, trade, culture, and education exchanges between China and Georgia. It has also been a strong advocate for introducing Chinese culture to mainstream America. NACA is actively building next generation of leaders by mentoring college and high school students, and young professionals. NACA has hosted several mentorship programs, with the goal to provide students the necessary guidance to be successful in their future careers and to be successful future leaders in the global marketplace. The programs also help students to understand the importance of being responsible corporate citizen and giving back to communities.
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Asian Pacific American Heritage Month My family history and path to the bench I am proud to be an American. I am equally as proud of my Asian American heritage. I grew up in Augusta, Georgia, where the Chinese community has had a long history. The Chinese first immigrated to the city in 1872 to help build an extension of the Augusta Canal. These Chinese men -- and it was all men in those days -- began sending for their wives and children, and word spread that Augusta was a good place to immigrate and to make a new life. My father’s parents were some of those who heard from others in their villages in southern China about Augusta. They originally immigrated to San Francisco, but moved to Georgia in the 1910’s and opened a small grocery store. In those days, if you were Chinese, you had two options to make a living in the South -- open a laundry or a grocery store. My father was the youngest of six children and was born in the back room of that store where the family lived. I am sure that my grandparents never dreamed that they would have a granddaughter who is a lawyer much less a judge. And although they did not know the language or the culture, they instilled in their children a love of this country and a service mindset. I am proud that my father and uncle are veterans who did their part to protect our freedom and way of life.
That’s my father’s side of the family -- the Wongs from Augusta. But I also want to talk about my mother, who emigrated from Hong Kong to marry my dad. As a result, Chinese was my first language – that is what we primarily spoke at home before my siblings and I went to school.
practice and frankly I knew that even if I got the appointment, I would then have to run for election to keep my seat. I was fearful about facing the rigors of campaigning each election cycle. So after about a week of soul-searching, I had all but decided not to apply.
One of my most distinct memories as a child was going into a courtroom and watching my mother be naturalized as an American citizen. I can remember my sister and me in our best dresses, standing with my father and watching my mother take her oath of allegiance to the United States. That was a proud day for my mother and for the rest of my family.
But I changed my mind one night as I was looking at my young children. I thought about what I wanted to tell them twenty years from now, about seizing opportunities and about doing what I could to serve the community where they will be growing up. So I applied for the judgeship and was appointed initially to the trial court and later to the Court of Appeals.
Growing up in an Asian American family in the Deep South, there just were not too many people outside of my family who looked like me, spoke like me, or ate the same kinds of foods at home. It used to be when I was a teenager that I wanted to cover up all of those differences and blend in. But as I have grown older, I have learned to embrace those differences because that is what makes our country so great.
As a judge, I have taken an oath to uphold the Constitution. The Constitution ensures that we are a nation of laws, but it begins with the simple words, “We, the people.” Therefore, we must remember that key to the concept that we are a nation of laws is the notion of equality -- the belief that “all men are created equal.” No one is above the law, and no one is so low that they cannot avail themselves of the law’s protection.
I want to share with you that I never aspired to be a judge. I practiced for many years with a law firm in Atlanta where I expected to be for my entire career. But some judicial positions came open in my local jurisdiction. I almost did not apply. I was comfortable with my law
We must always remind our children that the rights and privileges guaranteed by the Constitution are there for us all. Without them, I would not be in the position that I am in today. The Constitution gives everyone an opportunity to fulfill their potential, even for someone like
me who came from a family of immigrants because by protecting the rights that the Declaration of Independence declares to be God-given, the Constitution provides each of us the freedom and opportunity to pursue our own destiny. I am honored to serve as the first Asian American on our Court of Appeals and as the first Asian American to be elected to statewide office in Georgia.
Honorable Judge Carla Wong McMillian serves on the Georgia Court of Appeals and is the first Asian American state appellate court judge appointed in the Southeast region of USA.
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May 1-15, 2016 Georgia Asian Times
METRO ASIAN NEWS Atlanta’s iconic Indian community leader Dr. Narsi dies of heart attack
Powerful film on comfort women screened by Korean film Director at KAAGA
Norcross, April 21, 2016 — “Spirits’ Homecoming” a powerful film on comfort women suffrage during the Japanese occupation of Korea in 1943 was featured in a private screening by film director Cho Junglae at Korean American Association of Georgia (KAAGA) office. The film depicts the story of two Korean sisters being kidnapped and used as “comfort women” by Japanese soldiers. “Comfort women” is a term describing victims of sexual assaults or torture by Japanese military soldiers during their occupation in Korea and Asia. Many had suffered under the brutal treatment or killed when they became pregnant, sick, or weak.
Over 3.6 million viewers had watched the period drama film in South Korea since its release on February 24, 2016. The film had grossed over $21.6 million in box office receipts and have received accolades for the film’s historical message. “I made the film to represents the ‘voices’ of the victims,” said Director Cho Junglae, in an exclusive interview with Georgia Asian Times. Cho took over 14 years to complete the film and had to stopped productions several times due to financials constraints. The film eventually was produced with the assistance of over 75,000 crowdsourcing donations and private investments in South Korea.
“The inspiration of the film came to me when I was viewing a painting by Kang Il Chul titled ‘Burning Young Girls’,” explains Director Cho. Spirits’ Homecoming is produced mostly based on testimonials and historical records by actual “comfort women” victims, adds Director Cho. He wanted to reach out to the victims who are “socially outcast” and cannot returned to their hometowns. He hopes him film would console the pain and ease mental sufferings of the remaining 44 living victims in South Korea. The film was officially released for Atlanta screening during the Easter weekend. Director Cho also shared with Georgia Asian Times that the film was produced without “big names” actors and actresses. Much of the film was made with volunteers help and limited budget. Due to the sensitivity subject of the film, Director Cho has not received much support from the Korean authorities for his effort. Often times, he had been advised to tone down his rhetoric to avoid offending Japan and to appease critics of the film.
Atlanta, April 30, 2016 — Atlanta’s iconic and highly respected Indian community leader Dr. Narsi L.S. Narasimhan, CEO, Paalam, Inc. and founder of Indian Professional Network (IPN), passed away in his apartment on Friday, April 29 evening. According to preliminary medical reports, the cause of death was a massive heart attack. Late Dr. Narsi’s family is currently planning his final rites and memorial services. Further information will be announced when available.
Popular Atlanta Chinese blogger and family in fatal auto crash in New Zealand Johns Creek, April 22, 2016 — Members of the Chinese community in metro Atlanta were shocked and saddened by an auto accident news from New Zealand. It involves the family of Michael Guo, founder and photographer of newsblog atlanta168.com. Guo, his wife and daughter who were on vacation in New Zealand. They were traveling on Hopkins Road, off State Highway 29, when their Silver Hyundai hatchback collided with a logging truck at about 9:20 am on Monday morning local time, according to reports by New Zealand Herald’s website.
Guo’s daughter died in the collision with the truck near Matamata. Guo and his wife were in a critical condition and were flown to Waikato Hospital by helicopter to receive treatment. All three victims had to be cut out of the car by firefighters. The truck driver is also being treated for moderate injuries. Guo is a prominent figure in every Asian cultural celebrations in metro Atlanta and was well liked by the community for his photography works.
Georgia Asian Times May 1-15, 2016
Page 15
BUSINESS
Apple’s stock suffers worst week since 2013 San Francisco, April 29, 2016 — Apple Inc on Friday ended its worst week on the stock market since 2013 as worries festered about a slowdown in iPhone sales and after influential shareholder Carl Icahn revealed he sold his entire stake. appleShares of Apple, a mainstay of many Wall Street portfolios and the largest component of the Standard & Poor’s 500 index, have dropped 11 percent in the past five sessions. That shrank the technology behemoth’s market capitalization by $65 billion, about equivalent to Cambodia’s net wealth. Confidence in the Cupertino, California company has been shaken since
posting its first-ever quarterly decline in iPhone sales and first revenue drop in 13 years on Tuesday, although Apple investors pointed to the stock’s relatively low valuation as a key reason to hold onto the stock.
Revenue from China slumped 26 percent during the March quarter and its iBooks Stores and iTunes Movie service in China were shut down last week after the introduction of new regulations on online publishing.
“If you’re going to buy Apple, you have to buy it for the long term, because the next year or two are going to be very tough,” said Michael Yoshikami, chief executive of Destination Wealth Management, which owns Apple shares.
Pointing to concerns that Beijing could make it difficult for Apple to conduct business in China, long-time Apple investor Carl Icahn told CNBC on Thursday that he had sold his stake in the company he previously described as a “no brainer” and undervalued.
Faced with lackluster sales of smartphones in the United States, Apple has bet on China as a major new growth engine, but progress there has been a let-down.
The selloff has left Apple trading at about 11 times its expected 12-month earnings, cheap compared to its average of 17.5 over the past 10 years. S&P 500 stocks on average are trading at 17 times expected earnings.
“The tide is going out a bit, but it will probably improve in the fall with the launch of the next iPhone,” said Pat Becker Jr, principal of Becker Capital Management, which also owns Apple stock. “This is an opportunity.” Wall Street remains positive as 36 analysts tracked by Thomson Reuters recommend buying Apple’s shares, while nine have neutral ratings and none recommend selling. The median of the analysts’ price targets is $120, down from $130 at the end of March. The stock ended Friday at $93.75, down 1.14 percent. -Reuters
Mitsubishi Motors admits using improper fuel tests since 1991 Tokyo, April 26, 2016 – Japan’s Mitsubishi Motors admitted Tuesday it has been using an improper fuel-efficiency testing method for 25 years and did not know how many cars were affected, widening a data-cheating scandal that has plunged it into crisis. The latest twist will likely fuel speculation that the misconduct stretched to vehicles sold overseas and will send the number affected vehicles soaring from the more than 600,000 already known. “For the domestic market, we have been using that method since 1991,” Mitsubishi vice president Ryugo Nakao told a Tokyo news briefing. “But we don’t know the number of models” affected in total, he added. Last week, Mitsubishi admitted un-
named employees rigged tests to make some of its cars seem more fuel-efficient than they were in reality. It said at the time the rigged testing dated back to 2002. The firm’s Tokyo-listed shares have been in free fall since the story broke on Wednesday, losing about half their value and wiping billions of dollars off its market value. Mitsubishi president Tetsuro Aikawa has acknowledged that the crisis would damage the firm’s finances and told Tuesday’s briefing: “I can only apologize.” Officials at the news conference said the company did not change its fuel-efficiency testing method when the Japanese government ordered the industry to use an updated system years ago.
So far, the testing has affected vehicles sold in Japan involving four mini-car models, including cars made for rival Nissan. But Japan’s leading Nikkei business daily said Tuesday the firm had been supplying false results on more models than previously reported. Transport ministry authorities raided the company’s office last week, a decade after the automaker was pulled back from the brink of bankruptcy when it was found to have covered up a series of vehicle defects. On Saturday, the Nikkei said Mitsubishi plans to compensate customers in a bid to limit the fallout from the scandal.
The embarrassing revelations have raised questions about the Japanese carmaker’s future, and pointed to a broader problem in the global car industry as regulators probe other automakers’ pollution and fuel-efficiency standards. German carmaker Volkswagen said Friday the massive engine-rigging scandal it is currently engulfed in pushed it into its first annual loss for more than 20 years, and the final total costs are still not calculable. Also Friday, Germany’s transport minister Alexander Dobrindt said a probe sparked by Volkswagen’s emissions-rigging scandal found irregularities at 16 car brands, including Mercedes, France’s Renault, Alfa Romeo, Chevrolet, Hyundai, Jaguar, and Nissan.
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May 1-15, 2016 Georgia Asian Times
FASHION
Over our dead body: Gucci asks HK funeral shops to stop selling replicas of products Valentino cuts prices in Asia to boost local sales Milan, April 29, 2016 — Italian fashion house Valentino said yesterday it would cut its prices in Asia to bring them into line with European prices. Consumers are increasingly inclined to compare prices online and travel to buy luxury goods where they are cheaper. “Prices of products in Europe will remain unvaried, while those in Asia will be reduced,” a statement said, referring to Greater China and South-east Asia. “The strategy is aimed at continuously improving the image of the brand... (and) to protect the interests of clients and foreign direct investments made in retail recently.” The sector is under pressure from a sharp economic slowdown in China and recession in Russia, as well as
plunging oil prices and security threats hurting tourist spending elsewhere. The luxury brand, owned by Qatar’s Mayhoola for Investments, said sales were up by over 9 per cent to €256 million in the first three months of the year, from €234 million in the same period last year. It added that sales grew in all markets and in “double digit” percentages in the United States and Japan. The Rome-based designer is considering a stock market listing, possibly in the second half of 2016. — Reuters
Hong Kong, April 29 — Gucci has sent legal letters to Hong Kong shops selling paper replicas of its products as offerings to the dead. According to Hong Kong Free Press (HKFP), citing Apple Daily, the Italian luxury goods maker stated the items bearing similar logos were a copyright violation. The shopkeepers were asked to stop selling the paper offerings immediately and disclose information about their suppliers. Paper offerings that resemble everyday items like mansions, cars, iPads and luxury bags are burnt in Chinese culture because it is believed the dead can use them in the afterlife. In a statement to the BBC, however, Gucci Hong Kong said there were no plans to take legal action because they “respect the funeral context”. “We fully respect the funeral context and we trust that the store owners did not have the intention to infringe Gucci’s trademark,” the statement read.
“Thus a letter was sent on an informational basis to let these stores know about the products they were carrying, and by asking them to stop selling those items.” As HKFP pointed out, this may have something to do with a 2011 case where several papier-mâché offering businesses were sued in Chinatown, Manhattan for copyright violation after they distributed paper replicas of Gucci products. The court eventually ruled that the businesses were not guilty on the grounds that paper offerings were a part of Asian culture. Naturally, Hong Kong residents have reacted with their usual acerbic wit on social media. The BBC quoted a Facebook user called Vincent Charles as saying, “Does Gucci want to open branches in the underworld?” while another by the name of Sammi Ng said: “Maybe Gucci should launch their own paper offering products.”
Georgia Asian Times May 1-15, 2016
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LIFESTYLE
US Navy bends rules on tattoos Washington DC, April 29, 2016 — An indelible blue drawing of an ornate birdcage, festooned with roses and petals, wraps its way around Navy Corpsman Jessica Bryant’s forearm.
“Everyone’s really thrilled,” said Navy Corpsman Everette Abney, 28, as he perused tattoo designs to add to the colorful selection already on his forearm.
tattoos.navyThe 23-year-old sailor’s tattoo is large, but not big enough to be considered a “sleeve,” the type of design that covers an entire arm.
News of the rule change was up on “Facebook for maybe an hour, and it had been shared about 40,000 times,” Abney said.
Bryant hopes to remedy that, thanks to new Navy rules kicking in April 30 — aimed at attracting recruits among young millennials who have adopted tattoos en masse.
His friend, Navy Corpsman Taylor Hoyte, 20, is getting a tattoo of a pair of interlocking hands as part of a design that will eventually be a sleeve.
“When they make this really, really legal, I am going to finish the rest of it,” she said during a recent visit to the Champion Tattoo Company in southeast Washington, across the road from a Marine barracks. Until now, sleeve tattoos have been barred under military regulations. The Navy is scrapping the ban — and going further still — to adopt the most lenient rules on body art of any US military service. From next month, sailors will also be allowed a tattoo on their neck — up to one-inch across — and restrictions will be lifted on ink below the knee or elbow, including on the hands. Additionally, sailors with visible tattoos will be allowed to work as Navy recruiters, a gig that was off-limits to them before.
“I want to keep going until I run out of room, from the neck down,” she said. Millennials and hipsters Tattoos are a longstanding tradition among sailors the world over — think Popeye and his anchor — reaching back to the 18th century. But in recent decades, as the military sought for troops to project a more uniform and professional image, even the Navy restricted what kind of tattoo sailors can wear. With the practice more popular than ever among millennials and hipsters, the Navy’s latest easing of the policy is aimed at reaching a wider array of potential sailors. According to a Harris poll, nearly half (47 percent) of Americans born in the 1980s and 1990s have at least one tattoo.
“This policy has increased the pool of candidates we recruit from. Will we get new recruits that wouldn’t have previously applied to the Navy? I think absolutely, yes,” Navy spokesman Lieutenant Commander Nate Christensen said in a phone interview. “The Navy strives to reflect the nation we serve, to attract, recruit and retain the nation’s best talent,” he added. Offensive, overly vulgar or racist tattoos remain off-limits. Military tattoo restrictions have long stoked ire among rank-and-file troops. Many grumble that if they can die for their country, they should be able to express themselves on their skin. ‘Warrior spirit’ “Today’s military needs to understand… that letting service members have tattoos with less restrictions adds to their own esprit de corps. It boosts morale. It allows them to tap into an ancient warrior spirit,” said Butch Johnson, owner of the popular Washington tattoo parlor, which is located next to a hip eatery. “It is the one personal item that can be taken into a battlefield and give a service member that extra edge, a feeling of power, a reminder of family, patriotism, pride — and a tattoo can’t be taken away.”
Johnson says Marine Corps restrictions on tattoo sleeves — when they were implemented locally in 2012 — had hurt his bottom line. The bearded artist traced his buzzing tattoo gun over the skin of Tyler McManus, 24, a former Marine who says he wasn’t allowed to re-enlist in part because of his extensive tattoos. “A lot of people that had tattoos were ‘volun-told’ to get out,” said McManus, who is getting a huge Polynesian tribal design inked across his back. The popular military phrase: “Si vis pacem, para bellum” — If you want peace, prepare for war — stretches across his chest. Since leaving the Marines in 2014, he has had a full sleeve depicting a carp and a dragon in Japanese style etched onto his left arm. Now he is considering enlisting with the Navy because of the service’s new rules. “With the lax tattoo policy and the way that I read it, I would be much more obliged to go back into the Navy to serve with them,” McManus said.
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May 1-15, 2016 Georgia Asian Times
HEALTH
Study links fructose to cardiovascular disease and diabetes New American research has found that fructose consumption could alter and potentially damage hundreds of genes in the brain. These genetic modifications could be linked to medical conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer’s disease and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. fructoseA team of scientists from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) studied the effect of fructose on the brain. This commonly consumed sugar is found in sweetened drinks, syrups, honey, juices and industrially made desserts. Synthetic glucose-fructose syrup, made from corn starch, is also added to a host of industrially made products for large retailers. Fructose occurs naturally in fruit but the accompanying fiber slows down sugar absorption considerably. The researchers analyzed the impact of fructose on rats who had been taught to escape from a maze. The rats were randomly split into three groups. Over a six-week period, one group was given water with a concentration of fructose equivalent to around one liter of soda per day in humans. The second group was given fructose water accompanied by a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids. The third group was given plain water and an omega-3-rich diet. At the end of the six weeks, the rats were sent back into the maze. The group given fructose water and no omega-3 took twice as long to get out of the maze than those given water only. This suggests that fructose may have impaired their memory. The rats given fructose water and a diet high in omega-3 showed results similar to those given water only. The research-
ers therefore suggest that omega-3 could counteract the negative effects of fructose. What’s more, the higher blood glucose levels, triglycerides and insulin levels found in the first group of rats are linked to a higher risk of obesity and diabetes in humans. Among the 20,000 genes studied in the rats, fructose altered more than 700 in the hypothalamus — the part of the brain that controls metabolism — and over 200 in the hippocampus — which helps regulate learning and memory. The 900 genes identified as altered in the rats are comparable to genes also existing in humans, and which are known to regulate metabolism, cell communication and inflammation. Conditions linked to modifications in these particular genes include Parkinson’s disease, depression, bipolar disorder and other brain diseases. The study found that two genes were particularly affected by fructose — “Bgn” and “Fmod.” Once altered, these genes can set off a cascade effect causing hundreds of others to be modified. In the future, “Bgn” and “Fmod” could be promising targets for new drugs treating conditions linked to altered genes in the brain. The scientists’ work also highlights the potentially beneficial action of omega-3 in countering the harmful effects of fructose. These essential fatty acids can strengthen synapses in the brain and improve learning and memory. Good sources of omega-3 include wild salmon, sardines, mackerel, fish oil, walnuts, flaxseeds, fruit and vegetables.
Prevent cancer and diabetes with cantaloupe Cantoloupe’s plentiful, affordable, and above all, uniquely flavorsome. And though we tend to think that ‘deliciousness’ and ‘healthfulness’ don’t go together, the cantaloupe is highly nutritious. It contains an abundance of antioxidants (molecules that prevent cell damage) including choline, zeaxanthin and beta-carotene, all of which provide protection against a range of diseases and conditions, such as the following: High blood pressure Cantaloupes are rich in potassium, which helps decrease blood pressure (getting as much potassium is as important as decreasing sodium intake). High consumption of potassium is also associated with reduced risk of stroke, preservation of bone mineral density and reduction in the formation of kidney stones. Cancer Research has shown that beta-carotene, which is abundant in cantaloupe, plays a protective role against a variety of cancers, particularly the prostate and colon varieties. Bad skin Cantaloupes’ beta-carotene stimulates the membrane of skin cells and aids in re-growth and repair. This helps keep skin supple, protects it against harmful toxins and wards off premature aging. Age-related macular degeneration Zeaxanthin, found in cantaloupe, filters out harmful blue light rays and is thought to play a protective role in eye health, and possibly wards off damage from macular degeneration.
Asthma The risks for developing asthma are lower in people who consume a high amount of beta-carotene, found in yellow and orange fruits like cantaloupe, pumpkin, carrots and leafy greens like spinach and kale. Vitamin C (also plentiful in cantaloupe) is another important nutrient that helps boost our immune system and helps destroy bacteria, viruses and other toxic substances that infiltrate our bloodstream. Diabetes Studies show that cantaloupe is connected with improved insulin metabolism, which means a more stable fluctuation of blood sugar, and reduction in risk of developing diabetes. It has also been shown to reduce oxidative stress on the kidneys, which can prevent a number of kidney-related diseases. Digestion Cantaloupes are high in both fiber and moisture, both of which prevent constipation, promote regularity and help maintain a healthy digestive tract. Hydration With its high water and electrolyte content, cantaloupe is a great snack to have after a workout.
Georgia Asian Times May 1-15, 2016
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SPORTS
Lewis Hamilton tops third practice in Sochi Sochi, April 30 — World champion Lewis Hamilton fought back to top the times again ahead of his Mercedes team-mate Nico Rosberg in this morning’s third and final free practice for tomorrow’s Russian Grand Prix. The 31-year-old Briton, who trails his German team-mate by 36 points in this year’s drivers’ title race after just three events, clocked a best lap time of one minute and 36.403 seconds in the final minute of a busy session run in cool conditions at the Sochi Autodrom. Minutes earlier, Rosberg had led the times by half a second and retired
to his garage, leaving a determined Hamilton to respond again with an aggressive sliding demonstration of his talent. It was enough for the defending three-time champion to outpace Rosberg by 0.068 seconds ahead of the two Ferraris led by four-time champion Sebastian Vettel, but proved also that he was pushing to the limits to extract his speed from the car. Rosberg was fastest in Friday morning’s first session before Hamilton took over at the top in the second session.
German Vettel was six-tenths of a second off the pace set by Hamilton with his team-mate Finn Kimi Raikkonen 1.3 seconds adrift of the leading Mercedes. That suggested qualifying later on Saturday was likely to be decided by a fine margin between the two Mercedes men. Brazilian Felipe Massa was fifth in the leading Williams ahead of his team-mate Finn Valtteri Bottas, Dutch teenager Jos Verstappen of Toro Rosso and 2009 champion Briton Jenson Button of McLaren Honda.
Spaniard Carlos Sainz was ninth in the second Toro Rosso and Mexican Sergio Perez 10th for Force India, leaving a disappointed Australian Daniel Ricciardo down in 10th in his Red Bull. His team-mate local hero Russian Daniil Kvyat was 13th behind twotime champion Spaniard Fernando Alonso in the second McLaren, an endorsement of his team’s improvement since their disappointing season in 2015. — Reuters
Trail Blazers down Clippers to clinch NBA first-round series Portland, April 30 — Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum combined for 46 points to lead the Portland Trail Blazers past the Los Angeles Clippers 106-103 last night at the Moda Centre.
in the closing seconds. Austin Rivers collected 22 points, eight assists and six rebounds while DeAndre Jordan had 15 points and 20 boards for the losers.
increased the margin to 98-91 on a McCollum with 4:49 to play. Jordan’s tip-in closed it to 98-93, and Redick knocked in a jumper to close the gap to 98-95 with 2:50 left.
ford failed to convert a drive at the other end, and Plumlee made 1 of 2 at the line with 1.5 ticks left. Rivers’ desperation 3-point heave was short at the buzzer.
Lillard scored 26 points and McCollum added 20 as the Trail Blazers closed out the Clippers in six games in their first-round playoff series.
Portland took a 50-48 lead into the half despite 22 points by Crawford. Lillard had 14 points and McCollum 11 for the Blazers.
McCollum stroked a 3-pointer to increase Portland’s lead to 101-95 with 2:16 remaining, but Redick scored on a runner to close it to 101-97 with 1:58 to play.
The Clippers got a 14-9 jump on the Blazers, who made only four of their first 13 shots from the field.
Mason Plumlee contributed nine points — including the deciding three free throws in the final 14.7 seconds — and grabbed 14 rebounds for Portland, which opens Western Conference semifinals play tomorrow at Golden State.
Luc Mbah a Moute’s three-point play and Redick’s 3-point shot gave the Clippers a 58-53 advantage early in the third quarter. Al-Farouq Aminu, Lillard and Mo Harkless followed with consecutive 3s and the Blazers used an 11-2 run to go ahead 64-60. The Clippers took an 82-80 advantage into the final period.
Jamal Crawford came off the bench for a career playoff-high 32 points for the Clippers, but missed on a driving layup that could have tied the game
Portland led only 88-87 with seven minutes remaining, but the Blazers
Lillard made a pair at the line to push the difference to 103-97 with 1:37 left. Crawford converted a drive, Redick scored on a reverse layup and Crawford made two foul shots, and suddenly it was 103-103 with 32.1 seconds left. Plumlee was fouled and made both free-throw attempts to make it 105103 with 14.7 seconds to play. Craw-
Portland responded with a 13-3 spur to go on top 22-17. The teams were tied 24-24 heading into the second quarter, with Lillard scoring 14 of the Blazers’ points. The Clippers led 30-26 early in the second quarter and were still in front 38-37 midway through the period. — Reuters