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During these current times, I see the trends changing as it pertains to the direction in which we do things. In the very ancient days, people needed to write on stone by carving pictures to leave their legacy by telling their story literally etched in stone. With the advent of the paper, we were able to further document the “happenings” at that particular time. Paper was innovative because it let us tell our stories through not just pictures on rock…but also words on paper. What was also amazing is the fact that we could literally carry our stories with us.
Fast forward today, we are able to have fully blown color pictures and words to tell the story. Taking it one step further, we can show videos on the various devices we now carry with us. It is really amazing when you think about where we come from to what we have become and able to do today.
You are able to read this most likely on a device that you can carry with you, or are probably sitting at home on a computer. Either way, it is the sign of the times and progress demonstrated in you reading this at your convenience without needing to go get anything…but by simply turing on your device and typing some words in or touching your keyboard/screen.
As we are nearing the third quarter of 2025, make sure you take time to reflect on what you have learned, noticed, and pay attention to where you have started this year, to where you have ended up so far. Hopefully, you have really been able to learn some new things, accomplish some of your goals you set out with for the year and just be able to take notice the happenings around you.
We call this history…which is also the LEGACY OF THIS TIME.
“Never forget where you come from and live your life to where you want to be to create your legacy.”
– Jim T. Chong the Wok Star and Legend Maker
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NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2025
Jim T. Chong
LIFE’S BEEN GOOD TO ME SO FAR… PAST/PRESENT/FUTURE. I AM NOW 60!
By Jim T. Chong
Jim T. Chong
As I am writing this article it is August 28th… my birthday. I reflect on the fact that I am now older…and I would like to think wiser :) I get to reflect on how I have lived my life and what impact that I have been able to have on those around me.
As we move forward to new advancements, we should take some time to consider a couple of things:
1) What allowed us to get to where we are today?
2) What obstacles will we face to get to the next plateau?
I love the opportunities to reflect on the things that are ahead but I have an equal appreciation to what has been the catalyst and foundation to allow us to get to where we are today. As my generation ages gracefully, we can appreciate the eight track tapes, the video games where you actually went to an arcade with friends.
So much has changed over the past few decades. We no longer have the big “Boom Boxes” and multiple component stereo systems. We are now in an era where smaller is better.and the smartphones and the emerging technologies in AI are the dominating factor as to what we choose to include in our daily life.
In actuality, I remember that in 2017, the Com Score’s Cross Platform Future in Focus reported , about 2 hours and 51 minutes are spent on the phone everyday by the average person 18+ years old which equates to about 86 hours per month! However, as we are in 2025, I am sure this number is significantly higher and laughable as we for the most part, live on our phones.
A ways back, I had made a fundamental decision to value every moment we have in this lifetime. While this is easy to say, I have been taking a good look at my priorities and what things have transpired.
I remember taking the time in my life to take care of my father who’s memory had been fading as he aged. I had also been serving the senior community in different ways at that time. I have been so honored to help serve on the Board of organizations that are cause-based.
I believe that we can definitely “Pay It Forward”...however, it is equally important in my mind to “Pay It Backwards” as well.
Take some time to reflect on what opportunities you have in front of you to show gratitude to the older generation that has helped shape us today.
We need to remember to NEVER FORGET WHERE WE CAME FROM!
Equally important is to CONSIDER WHERE WE ARE HEADING AND WHAT OUR DESTINATION IS IN LIFE.
I am so excited to have had the experience to release a best selling international book “Breaking Barriers: Decisions That Elevate People From Ordinary To Extraordinary” several years ago..
This best selling Amazon new release anthology has 22+ authors that have told their story to inspire the reader to consider WHY it is important to overcome obstacles. Designed to help inspire the reader to “up their game” in life, the book has some incredible authors including the forward by Jim Stovall, an best-selling NY Times author and owner of the Narrative Television
Network, Roger Palmieri, a Mindset Performance Expert, and Kirby Delaunay, the Guinness Book World Record Holder for breaking 150 bricks in 1 min 33 seconds.
The book is all about overcoming barriers to be able to live your life on purpose and unleash your ability to live your life to the full intentionally.
It is exciting, in reflection, that I took the time to compile the stories of many individuals which in turn helped them also complete a chapter in their life so to speak.
This book was a closure I had in my own life as during that time I was facing my own obstacles.
WHY ARE OVERCOMING BARRIERS IMPORTANT? It’s all about the future and what kind of example, inspiration, and opportunities we can provide to our future generation.
IN SUMMARY……
we can engage the future by engaging ourselves. I hope you consider the difference you can make by engaging in something that can help promote the greater good that you are passionate about.
One person that had a profound impact on me was a homeless woman that was asking for change while I was putting gas in my car. I gave her what I had in my pocket. She said something that really touched my heart as I thought about it. But then something else happened...she went to the person I was next to who was also pumping gas into his car and asked for change. He looked at me briefly and gave her what change he had. I realized my seemingly insignificant sacrifice had influenced the other person to do the same. She looked at him with her eyes of gratitude and said the same thing, “Something is better than nothing.”
Remember, we always have choice. My hope is that we choose to do something rather than nothing. It’s not just about us, but who we can influence and also about what we can do to support the future generations to come.
I hope that my life has been lived in a manner pleasing to God, and my future years are dedicated to helping others realize their dreams and potential.
It is true…”Doing something is definitely better than doing nothing.”
~WokStarWokism 204
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JIm T. Chong the Wok Star (JimTChong.com) PR, Media, Entertainment Email: jtc.legendmaker@gmail.com Text / Phone: (279) 999-6363
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Jim T. Chong - Jim is the Principal of APA Living Today, specializes in Media, PR, and Publicity to help gain Visibility/Influence/Connection, is a National and International best-selling and multibook author, executive speaker, and community leader within multiple communities.
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The Power of Service: How Personal Development Strengthens Our Communities
By Dr. Jessie Bowen, 10th-Degree Black Belt, Publisher at Elite Publications
In every community, there are people who step forward to lead, to serve, and to make a difference. What is often overlooked, however, is that the ability to serve others effectively begins with developing ourselves. Personal development is not just about achieving our own goals; it is about preparing ourselves to be vessels of change in the lives of others.
As a martial artist, coach, and author, I have learned that the discipline we apply to improve ourselves has a direct impact on how we influence those around us. When we strengthen our minds, refine our character, and align our lives with purpose, we become powerful examples for others. The greatest leaders are those who have first mastered themselves.
The Connection Between Growth and Service
Personal development provides the foundation for community service. Growth in areas such as self-discipline, resilience, and emotional intelligence equips us to handle the challenges of leadership. When we understand our strengths and weaknesses, we are better prepared to contribute in meaningful ways.
For example, learning self-discipline may begin with setting personal goals—whether in education, health, or martial arts training. Yet that same discipline later empowers us to commit to community projects, serve on boards, mentor youth, or volunteer consistently. Personal growth and service are not separate pursuits; they are two halves of the same whole.
Service as a Reflection of Character
Community service is more than simply giving time. It is the outward expression of our character. When we mentor, teach, or support those in need, we are demonstrating the values we live by—compassion, integrity, and responsibility.
I often tell my students that a black belt is not worn just around the waist— it is worn in how you live your life. The title carries a responsibility to uplift others, to lead by example, and to use your knowledge for the betterment of society. The same applies outside of martial arts. No matter our role, we all have a platform from which we can serve.
The Ripple Effect of Service
When individuals commit to their own personal growth, the benefits extend far beyond themselves. A person who learns to set goals inspires others to dream bigger. Someone who overcomes fear and doubt can encourage a neighbor struggling with the same challenges. Service multiplies, creating a ripple effect of positive change.
In my own journey, I have witnessed how personal breakthroughs open doors for service. By overcoming procrastination, I was able to write books and create programs that now inspire others to reach their goals. By deepening my own spiritual and mental practices, I have been able to serve as a mentor, minister, and coach to those seeking clarity and direction. Every step of growth has positioned me to serve on a larger scale.
Jessie Bowen
BUSINESS COMMUNITY
Building Stronger Communities Together
Strong communities are built when individuals combine their personal development with purposeful action. Imagine the transformation if every person committed to continual self-improvement and used their growth to serve others. Communities would flourish with more mentors, leaders, and role models—people willing to step forward and make a difference.
Each of us has unique gifts, and those gifts are meant to be shared. Whether it is teaching a skill, offering encouragement, or volunteering time, our contributions matter. Service is not measured by its size but by the heart with which it is given.
A Call to Action
If we are to create stronger communities, we must first commit to strengthening ourselves. Ask yourself: Am I growing in the areas that allow me to serve others more effectively? Growth is not a destination but a lifelong journey, and every step prepares us to give more of ourselves.
When we live with discipline, purpose, and compassion, service becomes a natural extension of who we are. The power of service is that it not only uplifts others but also fulfills our own potential. Together, through personal development and a spirit of giving, we can build communities that thrive for generations to come.
About the Author
Jessie Bowen is a 10th-degree black belt, bestselling author of over 30 books, and the president of Elite Publications and the American Martial Arts Alliance. A former Duke University instructor and world champion, he is dedicated to helping individuals discover their purpose through martial arts, personal development, and community service. Learn more at www.elitepublications.org.
Elite Publications
Dr. Jessie Bowen, Founder Elite Publications & AMAA
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SWEET & Savory
Matcha Fever: The World Can’t Get Enough — But Supplies Are Running Dry
By Layne Imada
The powder is impossibly green — a soft, almost neon hue that seems to glow in sunlight. When whisked into hot water, it forms a frothy, jade foam with an aroma both grassy and sweet. The taste is layered: vegetal yet smooth, sweet yet savory, leaving a faint earthiness lingering on the tongue.
This is matcha, Japan’s most celebrated tea, and in 2025, it’s everywhere. In London, it’s being poured over ice at Starbucks. In Singapore, it’s dusted over Krispy Kreme doughnuts. In Los Angeles, it’s served in glass goblets at boutique cafés alongside vegan pastries. The traditional drink once prepared with quiet precision in tatami-lined tea rooms has become a social media darling — and a global obsession.
But while the world scrolls, posts, and sips, a problem is brewing at the source: the planet’s demand for matcha is outstripping Japan’s ability to produce it.
The Social Media Spark
Like so many modern trends, matcha’s current popularity owes much to the internet. On TikTok, the hashtag #MatchaTok has racked up tens of millions of views. Influencers in minimalist kitchens film themselves whisking the tea in ceramic bowls, pouring it over oat milk, or blending it into creamy cheesecakes. On Instagram, glossy photos capture matcha swirls in marble cups, often with captions about wellness, antioxidants, and “morning rituals.”
“Social media has made matcha both accessible and aspirational,” says food culture analyst Mayumi Kondo. “It’s no longer just a drink — it’s a lifestyle statement.”
The timing has been fortuitous for Japan’s tourism industry. The country’s borders reopened after the pandemic just as the yen weakened, making Japan an affordable destination. Visitors pour into Kyoto, Tokyo, and rural teagrowing regions, eager to experience authentic tea ceremonies — and to buy tins of matcha straight from the source.
From Shade to Stone: The Making of Matcha
Matcha is no ordinary green tea. It begins with tencha leaves, grown in carefully shaded fields for three to six weeks before harvest. This shading slows photosynthesis, increasing chlorophyll levels, deepening the leaf’s green color, and enhancing amino acids like L-theanine, which give matcha its famous umami — a savory, brothy taste that softens its natural bitterness.
Once picked, the leaves are steamed, dried, and de-stemmed. They are then ground in granite mills, a slow, deliberate process that yields just 40 grams of matcha per hour. Each step — from the choice of soil to the angle of the grind — is rooted in centuries-old tradition, handed down through generations of Japanese tea masters.
“It’s not just farming,” says Kyoto grower Hiroshi Sato. “It’s craftsmanship.”
Demand Like Never Before
For tea importers like Oregon-based Lauren Purvis, who runs Mizuba Tea Co., the boom has been both a blessing and a logistical headache. “Some cafés that used to go through a kilo in a month now ask for a kilo a day,” Purvis says. “They’re desperate to keep up.”
Retailers in Japan feel the pressure, too. In Uji — the historic heart of Japanese matcha production — tourists often clear store shelves within hours of opening. The famed Camellia Tea Ceremony now limits purchases to one tin per customer.
In Tokyo, tea master Rie Takeda of the Chazen tea ceremony chain has had to ration her stock. Deliveries that once arrived in two days now take over a week. The shortage has pushed her prices up by 30% this year. “It’s good that people are curious about matcha,” she says through a translator. “But we need to protect its heritage.”
SWEET & Savory
When Climate and Economics Collide
The shortage isn’t solely due to popularity. Climate change is playing a role. Record-breaking heatwaves in the Kyoto region have reduced yields, as higher temperatures stress the delicate tencha plants. This matters because Kyoto produces roughly a quarter of all Japan’s tencha — a supply chain bottleneck that leaves the entire market vulnerable.
At the same time, Japan’s ageing farming population means fewer young growers are entering the industry. “Many tea fields are being abandoned,” says agricultural economist Keiji Tanaka. “We could lose both supply and traditional knowledge if nothing changes.”
To make matters worse for exporters, new US tariffs threaten to increase costs further. A recent trade agreement between Washington and Tokyo will impose a 15% import tax on Japanese goods, including matcha.
The Price of Green Gold
Japan’s agricultural ministry reports that matcha production has nearly tripled since 2010. Green tea exports, including matcha, climbed 25% last year alone to ¥36.4 billion ($250 million USD). Yet the surge in demand is so great that even these increases can’t keep prices from climbing.
Currently, high-grade ceremonial matcha — the kind used in traditional tea ceremonies — can fetch up to $50 for just 30 grams in overseas markets. Lower-grade matcha used for cooking is also rising in price, with some suppliers charging premium rates for blends that would have been considered everyday quality just a few years ago.
“Low-quality matcha is selling for a high price right now,” says Masahiro Nagata, co-founder of The Matcha Tokyo café chain. “But that won’t last forever. The market will correct itself in two or three years.”
A Call for Mindful Drinking
The scarcity has sparked a quiet cultural backlash. Purists are dismayed to see ceremonial-grade matcha whisked into sugary lattes or baked into muffins. “It’s a bit sad,” says Camellia Tea Ceremony director Atsuko Mori. “Matcha is so special to us. Using it where the flavour is lost — or hoarding it for resale — feels wrong.”
The Global Japanese Tea Association has been urging consumers to understand the difference between grades of matcha. Premium ceremonial matcha is best enjoyed plain, prepared with hot water and a bamboo whisk. Later-harvest, lower-grade matcha — more abundant and less expensive — is better suited for cooking or mixing into milk-based drinks.
“Promoting awareness of these distinctions ensures Japanese tea is enjoyed with respect, while supporting the craft and tradition behind it,” the association says.
The Cultural Ripple Effect
In Japan, matcha is more than just a beverage; it’s an art form deeply tied to the concept of ichi-go ichi-e — “one time, one meeting” — the idea that every tea ceremony is a unique, unrepeatable moment. For centuries, matcha preparation has been a slow, meditative act, meant to encourage mindfulness and connection.
The global boom has introduced millions to matcha’s flavour and health benefits, but some fear the ceremonial aspect is being overshadowed by its trendy image. “There’s a risk of losing the soul of matcha,” warns Kyoto tea master Kumiko Arai. “It’s not just about drinking it — it’s about appreciating the moment.”
Looking Ahead
For now, there is no sign that matcha’s global popularity will fade. Producers are exploring ways to expand cultivation, including experimenting with new regions and farming methods. Some farmers are investing in controlledenvironment agriculture to protect crops from heatwaves.
Others see opportunity in education. Tea schools in Japan and abroad are offering classes on traditional preparation, while specialty cafés are introducing tasting flights of different matcha grades to deepen customer knowledge.
Even as prices climb and supplies tighten, the matcha boom has undeniably brought Japanese tea culture to the world stage in a way never seen before. Whether sipped slowly in a tatami room or photographed for Instagram, the tiny green leaf has traveled far — and it shows no signs of slowing down.
For now, the advice from Japan’s tea masters is simple: savour your matcha, respect its origins, and remember that in every cup lies centuries of history, patience, and care.
TRAILBLAZERS
Vera Wang: From Ice Rinks to Iconic Runways
By Layne Imada
“When you start, there’s a certain innocence because of freedom. as you evolve, you begin to see the parameters of What you can and can’t do.”
– Vera Wang
When people think of wedding gowns that define an era, the name Vera Wang often comes first. For more than three decades, Wang has transformed how the world sees bridal fashion — infusing elegance, modernity, and a touch of rebellion into a category once bound by tradition. But long before she became the designer of choice for celebrities and red-carpet royalty, Vera Wang had her sights set not on fashion, but on the ice.
A Skater’s Dream
Born in New York City on June 27, 1949, to Chinese parents who immigrated to the U.S. in the mid-1940s, Wang’s early life revolved around figure skating. Training under legends Peter Dunfield and Sonya Klopfer, she dedicated her childhood and teen years to the sport. By high school, she was competing nationally with her pairs partner James Stuart and even featured in Sports Illustrated’s Faces in the Crowd in 1968.
Her Olympic dream, however, slipped away when she failed to qualify for the U.S. team. “I was devastated,” she later admitted. But that heartbreak would set her on a new, glittering path.
From Vogue to Vera
After graduating from Sarah Lawrence College with a degree in art history, Wang landed a coveted job at Vogue. She quickly rose through the ranks, becoming one of the magazine’s youngest-ever editors. For 17 years, she honed her eye for design, trend, and storytelling before moving to Ralph Lauren as a design director.
Then, at the age of 40, Wang made a bold leap: she launched her own bridal boutique in New York’s Carlyle Hotel in 1990. What followed was nothing short of a fashion revolution.
Reinventing the Wedding Dress
Wang reimagined the wedding gown for the modern bride. Her designs balanced sophistication with edge — minimalist cuts paired with dramatic flourishes, sleek silhouettes alongside bold textures. Soon, her gowns became the choice of high-profile brides like Chelsea Clinton, Ivanka Trump, Alicia Keys, and Kim Kardashian.
But Wang’s influence didn’t stop at weddings. Her eveningwear has graced countless red carpets, from the Oscars to the Emmys. First Lady Michelle Obama wore Vera Wang creations, as have stars like Viola Davis and Sofia Vergara. And for athletes like Michelle Kwan, Nancy Kerrigan, Nathan Chen, and Evan Lysacek, Wang designed costumes that dazzled on Olympic ice — a poetic return to her first love.
Vera Wang
TRAILBLAZERS
A Global Brand
Over the years, Wang expanded her empire far beyond bridal couture. From fragrances and jewelry to eyewear, homeware, and her accessible Simply Vera line at Kohl’s, her name became synonymous with luxury and lifestyle. In 2006, she launched tuxedos with Men’s Wearhouse; in 2011, she introduced “White by Vera Wang” at David’s Bridal, making her gowns more accessible than ever.
Recognition followed: the CFDA Womenswear Designer of the Year award, the André Leon Talley Lifetime Achievement Award, induction into the U.S. Figure Skating Hall of Fame, and the CFDA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2013. Forbes has also listed her among America’s richest self-made women.
In December 2024, after 35 years at the helm of her brand, Wang sold her company to WHP Global — but remained as Founder & Chief Creative Officer, ensuring her vision lives on.
The Woman Behind the Brand
Despite her towering success, Wang has always been candid about the challenges of balancing artistry with business. “The transition from journalist to
businesswoman was painful,” she once said. “When you start, there’s a certain innocence because of freedom. As you evolve, you begin to see the parameters of what you can and can’t do.”
Married in 1989 to investor Arthur P. Becker, with whom she shares two adopted daughters, Wang later separated in 2012. She has remained a cultural fixture, even making cameo appearances on shows like Gossip Girl and Ugly Betty.
Legacy in Motion
Vera Wang’s story is one of reinvention — from near-Olympian to editor, from editor to entrepreneur, from entrepreneur to icon. She never completely left skating behind; to this day, she describes the sport as “multidimensional” and credits it with shaping her discipline and artistry.
As the fashion world looks ahead, one thing is certain: Vera Wang has already secured her place as a designer who didn’t just dress brides — she redefined them.
LOS ANGELES - NOV 13: Vera Wang arrives at the MOCA’s Annual Gala “The Artist’s Museum Happening” 2010 at Museum of Contemporary Art on November 13, 2010 in Los Angeles, CA
Vera Wang arriving at the Vera Wang Los Angeles Store Opening hosted by Vouge Magazine Vera Wang Store, 8445 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA March 2, 2010
IN THE KNOW
Many older AAPI adults are foreign-born. They’re tough on immigration too, a new poll finds
By Terry Tang and Amelia Thomson-Deveaux
Updated 9:27 pm pdt, April 8, 2025
WASHINGTON (AP) — There are sharp generational disagreements among Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders when it comes to how the U.S. should handle mass deportations, with older AAPI adults — many of whom are themselves immigrants — taking a much tougher stance on unlawful border crossers, according to a new poll.
The survey, released Wednesday from AAPI Data and The Associated PressNORC Center for Public Affairs Research, finds that just 20% of AAPI adults under 30 favor deporting all immigrants living in the country illegally, compared to just over half of AAPI adults ages 60 and older. The rift among AAPI adults is wider than the divide among the general public, with younger AAPI adults less in favor of the hardline position than young adults generally, and older AAPI adults slightly more likely than older Americans overall to support mass deportations.
Coming off an election year full of uncompromising rhetoric around immigration and the border, there is a sense among many — including within Asian American communities — that the country cannot afford to provide resources for people in the U.S. illegally, said Karthick Ramakrishnan, executive director of AAPI Data and researcher at the University of California, Berkeley. But the split between older and younger AAPI adults could defy conventional wisdom about how immigration attitudes work.
The assumption might be that older Asian Americans, many of whom were born outside the U.S., would be more liberal on the issue because they’re closer to the immigrant experience, Ramakrishnan said. But the data suggests that older AAPI adults, who may have put their migration experience in the rearview mirror years ago, have less sympathy for people who are in the country illegally. It’s younger AAPI adults — who are more likely to be native-born — who want a more lenient approach.
The poll is part of an ongoing project exploring the views of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders, whose views are usually not highlighted in other surveys because of small sample sizes and lack of linguistic representation.
Younger AAPI adults see mass deportations as a low priority. An AAPI Data/ AP-NORC poll conducted in February found that only about 15% of AAPI
adults under 30 think deporting immigrants living in the U.S. illegally should be a “high priority” for the federal government, compared to about 4 in 10 adults ages 60 and older.
Meanwhile, older AAPI adults take a stern view of people who enter the U.S. illegally, particularly if the migrants have a criminal history. About 9 in 10 AAPI adults ages 60 and older “somewhat” or “strongly” favor deporting immigrants in the country unlawfully who have been convicted of a violent crime, and about 7 in 10 say the same about immigrants in the country illegally who have been convicted of a nonviolent crime such as shoplifting or burglary.
Mike Nakawatase, a retired 62-year-old Republican from Torrance, California, said there is no room for negotiation for someone who is in the U.S. illegally. He supports President Donald Trump’s handling of the U.S.-Mexico border and strongly favors deporting people with criminal histories.
“I’m from immigrants obviously, but the fact is my strongest belief is that illegal immigrants who have committed crimes should be caught,” said Nakawatase, who is Japanese American. “If they’re not contributing to society, I don’t think they should really be here. They should be deported.”
But younger AAPI adults are less certain that mass deportations are the right approach, even for people with criminal records. Only about two-thirds of AAPI adults under 30 favor deporting all immigrants living in the U.S. illegally who have been convicted of a violent crime, and about 4 in 10 support deportation for people who have been convicted of a nonviolent crime.
Cecil Wuggle, a 20-year-old college student in West Palm Beach, Florida, who identifies as a Democrat, understands why some immigrants with illegal status and a criminal record would have to be deported eventually. But she opposes the idea of mass deportations based on criminal history alone, without further examination of their situation, such as whether the crime was committed at a young age.
“I think they should have at least a fair trial before deporting them automatically,” Wuggle said. “Maybe they’re a good person now.”
Currently, immigration is a relative strength for Trump. A recent AP-NORC survey found about half of U.S. adults approve of his approach to the issue,
IN THE KNOW
which is in line with older AAPI adults’ views of his handling of immigration. But only about 3 in 10 AAPI adults under 30 have a positive view of Trump’s methods on immigration broadly. And some of his most hardline tactics are even more unpopular, the poll found. About 2 in 10 AAPI adults under 30 support deporting immigrants in the country unlawfully, even if it means separating them from their American-born children. About twice as many AAPI adults ages 60 and older support this approach.
Wuggle, whose parents came to the U.S. from China, is strongly against the idea of family separation, which she worries could do irreparable emotional damage to a child.
“I feel like kids, it affects the way they grow up,” Wuggle said.
Other consequential fights over immigration policy are still brewing. The Trump administration last month pushed for the the U.S. Supreme Court to allow some restrictions on birthright citizenship even as legal battles continue over Trump’s executive order to effectively end the Constitution’s 14th Amendment, including citizenship being denied to people born in the U.S. after Feb. 19 if their parents are in the country illegally. The order is currently blocked nationwide.
About one-third of AAPI adults support eliminating the constitutional right to birthright citizenship for children born in the U.S. to parents who are here unlawfully, while about one-quarter favor an end to birthright citizenship for the children of parents who were in the U.S. on temporary work or student visas. A significant share — about 2 in 10 — don’t have an opinion.
Nakawatase, the Republican, is “on the fence” about depriving citizenship for children of parents who illegally entered the U.S. He is less resistant to the idea of giving children birthright citizenship, though, if parents at least have a temporary work visa or a student visa.
“People who are here for the right reasons ... I’m open to a little bit more — even more onto the favor side,” Nakawatase said.
The poll of 1,182 U.S. adults who are Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islanders was conducted March 4-10, 2025, using a sample drawn from NORC’s probability-based Amplify AAPI Panel, designed to be representative of the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander population. Online and telephone interviews were offered in English, the Chinese dialects of Mandarin and Cantonese, Vietnamese and Korean. The margin of sampling error for all respondents is plus or minus 4.7 percentage points.
The Rise of Labubu: How a Mischievous Plush Became a Global Obsession
By Layne Imada
Inspired by Keira Imada
It’s a plush doll. It’s a bag charm. It’s a pop culture phenomenon. And—believe it or not—it just sold for over $170,000 at auction.
Meet Labubu, the elvish, wide-eyed, toothy creature turning heads around the world. With their mischievous grins, furry bodies, and playful designs, Labubus have quickly become one of the most sought-after collectibles of the decade. Whether you’ve seen one dangling from someone’s backpack, spotted a costumed superfan at a Pride parade, or scrolled past one in a viral TikTok unboxing, Labubu’s presence is hard to ignore—and even harder to resist.
The Story Behind the Smile
Labubu isn’t just another cute toy. Born from the imagination of Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung, the character was first introduced in his 2015 illustrated storybook series The Monsters. Heavily inspired by Nordic folklore and his childhood love of elves, Lung created a whimsical world filled with quirky, good-natured characters— including Labubu and her fellow monster friends Zimomo, Mokoko, and Tycoco.
In Lung’s stories, the Labubus are a tribe of mischievous, kind-hearted elves who often mean well—but sometimes cause chaos. Their charm lies in that contradiction: they’re both cute and chaotic, fuzzy and fierce. Their signature features? A fluffy body, wild eyes, and a grin boasting exactly nine teeth—a detail that also serves as a giveaway for spotting counterfeits.
From Page to Pop Culture
Labubu might’ve started in the pages of a picture book, but her real rise came in 2019, when Lung teamed up with Chinese collectible giant POP MART to release the first official line of Labubu art toys.
It was a match made in fandom heaven.
Sold in “blind boxes”—sealed containers hiding one random figure Labubus turned from characters into collectibles. From common designs to ultra-rare “secret” variants, each box became a surprise, feeding directly into the thrill of the hunt.
Since then, Labubu has become a must-have fashion accessory. Worn on belt loops, clipped to backpacks, or posed proudly on collector shelves, the dolls have been spotted with global stars like Dua Lipa, Rihanna, and BLACKPINK’s Lisa. In just a few years, Labubu has gone from underground to everywhere.
The Price of Popularity
While a single blind box retails for around $27.99 in the U.S., the resale value of rare dolls has skyrocketed. A limited-edition Chestnut Cocoa Labubu, for example, can fetch upwards of $150 on platforms like eBay.
STRENGTH | UNITY |
And that’s not even the highest price tag. At an art auction hosted by Yongle Auction in China, a life-sized Labubu statue recently sold for over $170,000, attracting nearly 1,000 eager bidders. It marked a major milestone—not just for Lung, but for the toy-collectible world as a whole.
Collecting or... Addicted?
It’s easy to say Labubu collectors are just passionate fans—but some admit it goes deeper.
There’s something addictive about the blind box format: the anticipation, the mystery, the possibility of pulling a rare doll. It’s the same excitement that once came with cereal box toys or Pokémon trading cards. Each unboxing is a mini dopamine hit—one that leaves many coming back for more.
“I love that they’re playful but also a little wicked,” says Vivian Le, a collector and photo editor. “The blind box adds to the rush. You’re not just buying a doll; you’re buying a chance at something rare and special.”
That emotional investment is part of why Labubu collecting can become compulsive. Some fans spend hundreds trying to complete a collection or trade online to track down missing figures. Others line up for hours at POP MART releases or spend late nights refreshing online drops.
Beyond the Box
Labubu isn’t just a toy—it’s a cultural mirror. According to Michelle ParnettDwyer, a curator at the Strong Museum of Play in New York, the blind box craze reflects a deeper trend.
“There’s a real wave of adult nostalgia driving this,” she explains. “Collecting toys like Labubu lets people reconnect with childhood, with wonder, and with play. It helps people feel young, creative, and connected.”
And for many, that emotional connection is worth more than the price tag.
How to Spot a Fake
With Labubu’s explosive popularity has come a darker side: counterfeits. Known among collectors as “Lafufus,” these fake dolls often mimic the look but lack the key details.
So how can you tell if your Labubu is real? First, count the teeth—genuine dolls have nine. Second, check the feet: authentic Labubus will have the POP MART logo stamped underneath.
And when in doubt, buy directly from official retailers. POP MART releases new Labubu drops online every Thursday at 9 p.m. and in stores on Fridays at 10 a.m. sharp.
Where to Find One (If You’re Lucky)
Besides POP MART’s online store, Labubus can occasionally be found at select toy retailers or specialty shops. In some cities, claw machines have become
CULTURE
hotspots for lucky grabs. One fan found hers at a bubble tea shop claw machine in San Francisco—winning it on the first try.
But most collectors agree: getting your hands on a Labubu is no small feat. They sell out within minutes, with social media ablaze during new releases.
Still, the joy of discovery is part of the charm. Whether you’re pulling your first blind box or hunting down a secret edition, each Labubu is more than a toy—it’s a tiny piece of magic.
Rumors of fashion collabs, anime adaptations, and NFT-style digital Monsters have fans buzzing. Kasing Lung continues expanding The Monsters universe — while POP MART gears up for bigger global drops.
The message is clear: Labubu is just getting started.
“She’s weird and wonderful,” says collector Elena Mejia. “And every time I open a new box, it feels like magic.”
What’s Next for Labubu?
Rumors of fashion collabs, anime adaptations, and NFT-style digital Monsters have fans buzzing. Kasing Lung continues expanding The Monsters universe — while POP MART gears up for bigger global drops.
SIDEBAR: LABUBU COLLECTING 101
Pro Tip: Want the rarest Labubu? Learn to identify the “secret” figures in each set. POP MART usually hides one or two ultra-rare dolls per series.
Teeth Count: Nine teeth = real. Eight or ten? Likely a fake.
Drop Time: New releases go live Thursdays at 9 p.m. (online) and Fridays at 10 a.m. (in-store). Set your alarm!
Check the Foot: Look for the official POP MART stamp under your doll’s foot to verify authenticity.
How to Spot a Real Labubu: With hype comes counterfeits — known in the fan community as Lafufus.
Real Labubu:
• Always has 9 teeth
• Pop Mart logo under the foot
• High-quality stitching and unique facial sculpt
Lafufu:
• Often has 8 or 10 teeth
• Missing logo
• Low-grade materials
A Beginner’s Guide To The Japanese Tea Garden
By Layne Imada
Discover the timeless beauty and quiet rituals of the roji — and how you can bring its spirit into your own space
A Mountain Retreat in the City
Imagine stepping through a simple bamboo gate. The street noise fades. Your footsteps slow as you follow a winding path, the scent of moss and damp stone filling the air. This is the roji — the teahouse garden — designed not just to please the eye, but to prepare the spirit.
Japanese gardens come in many styles: the shimmering waters of the chisenteien pond garden, the meditative stillness of the karesansui rock garden, and the roji, a rustic, humble garden leading to a teahouse (chashitsu). This story belongs to the roji.
In the late 16th century, tea master Sen no Rikyu shaped the tea ceremony known as wabi-cha, rooted in wabi — the beauty of simplicity and imperfection. He envisioned a setting with a “mountain ambience,” even in the heart of a bustling city. The roji became that place: a “mountain abode in the city” where every step draws you further from the ordinary and closer to the ritual world of tea.
With care, creativity, and an understanding of its elements, you can bring this same sense of calm to a modern home garden.
What Is a Roji?
The roji is the garden that lies before the teahouse. Here, guests begin their journey into the tea ceremony (chaji), which includes seasonal dishes (kaiseki), the serving of tea, and the host’s sincere hospitality.
The ceremony begins before a single sip is taken — with the first step into the roji. Each element, from stones to gates to plantings, is placed in harmony with tradition and purpose. The path is not simply a walkway; it is a transition from the busy world to the sacred space of tea.
Tsukubai: The Purifying Basin
One of the most iconic and essential features of a roji is the tsukubai, a wash basin where guests cleanse their hands and rinse their mouths, symbolically purifying body and mind.
A tsukubai consists of:
• Chozubachi – the basin itself
• Yakuishi – enclosing stones arranged to protect the water and control splashing
• Maeishi – a stone in front of the basin where guests stand to draw water
• Yuokeishi – a stone to place a pail of hot water in winter
• Teshokuishi – a spot for a lantern during night ceremonies
Traditionally, the surrounding stones are chosen and placed with great care. Stones smoothed by water (umi) and drainage stones (suimon) subtly enhance the scene.
To evoke the feel of a mountain village, choose a naturally damp location and plant ferns or moss nearby. A gentle bamboo spout can add the calming sound of running water, while floating seasonal flowers in the basin creates a soft, festive touch.
Chumon: The Gate Between Worlds
The chumon (middle gate) divides the roji into two spaces — the outer garden (soto roji), where guests wait, and the inner garden (uchi roji), leading directly to the teahouse.
Japanese Garden in Micke Grove Regional Park, Lodi, CA
Passing through the chumon is symbolic: you leave the everyday world behind and enter a realm of ceremony. The gate itself is often made of simple bamboo lattice (yotsumegaki) or bent branches (shiorido), rustic yet elegant. Unlike solid gates, it allows glimpses of the space beyond, heightening anticipation.
In a home garden, a chumon can mark the boundary between a formal, decorative area and a more practical one, subtly shifting the mood as you pass through.
Tobiishi and Nobedan: The Garden Path
A roji’s path is more than a route — it is a mindful journey. Tobiishi (steppingstones) and nobedan (paving stones) are arranged to balance beauty and practicality, with Sen no Rikyu recommending 60% function and 40% aesthetics.
Paving stones offer stability, but too many can feel rigid, so mixing them with irregular steppingstones creates a more natural flow. The kutsunugi-ishi (shoeremoving stone) is placed higher than the path stones for ease when stepping into the garden from indoors.
For a softer, more casual look, consider ararekoboshi — a scattering of small stones that mimics hail on the ground. Though arranging hundreds of pebbles in balance is a challenge, the result can be enchanting.
Chiriana: A Hidden Detail
The chiriana is a small, discreet hole used to temporarily dispose of garden debris before guests arrive. Often concealed by a natural stone, it can also serve as a display spot for seasonal flowers or branches.
Japanese Garden in Micke Grove Regional Park
This tiny, often-overlooked feature reflects the Japanese love of subtlety — beauty that reveals itself only to those who truly look.
Trees, Plants, and Moss
Planting in a roji aims to evoke a mountain forest. Trees are left in their natural shapes, not clipped into formal forms. Ground cover is often provided by Hypnum moss, which thrives in partial shade to sun with regular watering.
The goal is to avoid anything that looks overtly man-made. Even in a small city garden, natural planting can create the illusion of wildness and depth.
If surrounding buildings intrude on the view, traditional yukimi-shoji (sliding glass-and-paper screens) can block the background and focus attention on the lower garden, where moss, stones, and seasonal plants can shine.
Bringing the Spirit of Roji Home
While an authentic roji requires deep knowledge of tea ceremony traditions, its essence is accessible to anyone. Even a small yard, patio, or balcony can become a place of retreat with the right elements — a stone basin, a bamboo gate, a winding path, and plantings that suggest a wilder, more natural world.
A roji is not just a garden. It’s a space that changes your state of mind. It invites you to slow down, notice the smallest details, and step — quite literally — into a calmer, more thoughtful way of being.
Source cited: Jason Lange, Nolan D. McCaskill and James Oliphant August 21, 20259:14 AM PDT Updated August 21, 2025
WASHINGTON, Aug. 21 (Reuters) — A majority of Americans believe that efforts to redraw U.S. House of Representatives districts for partisan advantage — currently underway in states such as Texas and California — pose a threat to democracy, according to a new Reuters/Ipsos poll.
The survey found that 57% of respondents fear that American democracy is “in danger,” a sentiment shared by eight in 10 Democrats and four in 10 Republicans.
Public Unease Over Political Divisions
The six-day survey of 4,446 U.S. adults, completed on Monday, highlighted growing unease about deepening political divisions in Washington, where Republicans currently control both chambers of Congress, as well as in several state legislatures.
More than half of respondents (55%), including 71% of Democrats and 46% of Republicans, said they believe ongoing redistricting plans — commonly referred to as gerrymandering — are “bad for democracy.”
Texas and California at the Center of the Debate
In Texas, Republican Governor Greg Abbott has called a special legislative session to redraw the state’s congressional map ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, aiming to help Republicans defend their narrow 219–212 House majority.
In response, California’s Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom, widely viewed as a potential 2028 White House contender, has signaled he may pursue similar redistricting efforts to add five Democratic seats to offset expected Republican gains in Texas.
Unlike traditional redistricting, which follows the release of U.S. Census data, these efforts are occurring mid-decade, prompting concerns that they could undermine competitive elections. In recent decades, roughly two-thirds of House races have been decided by margins exceeding 20 percentage points.
Tensions Over Partisan Strategies
Partisan gerrymandering has sparked widespread debate. While many Texas Republicans in the poll supported their state’s redistricting plans, Democrats largely condemned them as “unfair” but supported similar measures in Democratic-led states to “maintain balance.”
Amanda Kelley, 51, a Republican insurance fraud investigator from Dallas, opposed both parties’ strategies:
“I don’t like it when either side tries to do that. I think that’s shady business,” she said. “Redrawing lines mid-term just leaves a bad taste in my mouth.”
Paul Wehrmann, a 57-year-old independent voter from Dallas, shared similar concerns:
“It sets a bad precedent,” he said. “States could start redrawing maps every election cycle instead of every decade.”
Deepening Partisan Distrust
The poll also revealed a widening gap in trust between ordinary Americans across party lines.
• 55% of Democrats said Republicans “cannot be trusted,” while 32% disagreed.
• Among Republicans, 43% expressed distrust toward Democrats, while 44% disagreed.
This growing divide has begun to affect personal relationships. Among Democrats, 27% reported that last year’s presidential election negatively impacted their friendships, compared to 10% of Republicans — a figure largely unchanged since 2017.
Concerns Over Party Leadership
The poll showed dissatisfaction within both major parties. Nearly 46% of Democrats said their party had “lost its way,” compared to 19% of Republicans who said the same of theirs.
Sandy Ogden, 71, a Democrat from Sunnyvale, California, criticized party leadership:
“We’re united in our beliefs, but our leaders aren’t mounting an effective opposition,” she said.
Political analysts suggest this internal division, combined with Democrats’ reluctance to engage with Republicans, could hinder their ability to regain influence in upcoming elections.
Outlook Ahead
Veteran Republican pollster Whit Ayres stressed the importance of maintaining open dialogue:
“Democracy requires a willingness to let people with differing views express those views,” he said.
Democratic strategist Michael Ceraso expressed frustration over the findings:
“The majority of Democrats believe democracy is failing, yet nearly half don’t want to talk to the opposition. We have to be better.”
From Quotas to Communities: Filipino American Migration and Movement
Commemorating the 90th Anniversary of the 1935 Filipino Repatriation Act and the 60th Anniversary of the 1965 Immigration & Naturalization Act
Filipino American History Month 2025 • Submitted by Terri Torres, FANHS Trustee Secretary
Seattle, WA — Since 1992, the Filipino American National Historical Society (FANHS) has been celebrating October as Filipino American History Month (FAHM) across the United States. In 2009, the month was first recognized by the U.S. Congress, and in 2015, President Obama hosted the first FAHM celebration at the White House. We are pleased to share the official theme for FAHM 2025.
In 1935, the U.S. Congress passed the Filipino Repatriation Act, offering free one-way transportation for Filipinos in the U.S. to return to the Philippines, but only if they agreed to never return. At the time, the Philippines was a U.S. commonwealth and there was an annual quota of 50 Filipinos who were able to enter the country. Filipinos were considered aliens who could not become citizens (and therefore could not vote, own property, or have the same rights as other Americans). While the law was sugarcoated as an opportunity for Filipino nationals to return to the Philippines, the intentions behind the law were rooted in anti-Asian sentiment and Asian exclusion, in that it aimed to decrease the population of Filipino nationals living in the United States. Only 2,190 Filipinos (out of the estimated 100,000 at the time) took the offer and migrated back to the Philippines – making the act one of the most failed xenophobic immigration laws in American history.
Thirty years later, U.S. Congress passed the 1965 Immigration & Naturalization Act, which became the first federal immigration law to eliminate national origin quotas that had favored Europeans, while barring or limiting Asians from entering the country. Also known as the Hart–Celler Act, this landmark legislation opened the doors for thousands of Filipino immigrants to migrate, while allowing for families to reunite and to establish multigenerational communities across the country. Nurses, engineers, physicians, domestic workers, teachers, and others sought opportunities and made the U.S. their home, bringing with them a rich legacy of resilience, labor, and cultural heritage. With this new federal law, the Filipino American population increased significantly from 176,000 in 1960 to 775,000 in 1980. Today, there are over 4 million Filipino Americans in the U.S., making them one of the largest Asian American and immigrant populations in the nation.
Today, as debates and injustices over immigration continue to shape the national landscape – particularly as governmental entities continue to unlawfully arrest, detain, and deport undocumented (and some documented) migrants – it is more important than ever to celebrate the history, humanity, contributions, and power of immigrants. Like other immigrant groups, Filipino American immigrants have transformed the U.S. through social justice activism, healthcare, education, technology, the arts, and community care. Like other immigrant groups, Filipino American immigrants have contributed significantly to building communities, strengthening the U.S. economy, enriching the nation’s cultural fabric, and advancing movements for labor rights, racial justice, and immigrant equity.
This year’s theme also reminds us that while migration has always involved movement across borders, it also involves movement toward justice, dignity, and belonging. It is because of the community organizing of the Manong/Manang generation – particularly in educating others about how the act was a tool to exclude and deport Filipino Americans living in the U.S. – that the 1935 Repatriation Act failed. It is because of the leaders of the Civil Rights Movement – primarily Black revolutionaries who advocated for the dismantling of racist laws – that the 1965 Immigration and Naturalization Act was passed. Taken together, the two
laws demonstrate that when communities come together and when historically marginalized groups work collaboratively, they have the power to challenge unjust systems, reshape national policy, and expand opportunities for future generations.
Possible activities to consider regarding our FAHM 2025 theme:
• Host a teach-in or panel on Filipino immigration history that highlights personal stories and oral histories of Filipino Americans across different generations and regions.
• Use social media or virtual panels to share family migration stories through oral history projects or digital storytelling.
• Highlight local Filipino immigrant leaders and frontline workers.
• Engage youth in creative projects exploring their family’s roots and movement and encouraging them to speak with their elders about their family’s own immigration history.
• Curate book clubs of relevant titles (e.g., America is the Heart, Little Manila is in the Heart) or film screenings (e.g., Nurse Unseen, Delano Manongs) that describe the ways that Filipino migrants have created movements.
• Use historical knowledge to initiate dialogues about current immigration policies, citing how history often repeats itself.
Conclusion
As we honor these historical milestones during Filipino American History Month 2025, let us reflect on how far we’ve come—and how much work remains. By uplifting our ancestors’ stories and standing in solidarity with all immigrant communities, we move closer to a future rooted in equity, remembrance, and liberation. Let this month be both a celebration and a call to action.
For more information, please visit www.fanhs-national.org or visit us on instagram at @ fanhs_national.
Further Readings:
Chin, G. J., & Villazor, R. C. (Eds.). (2015). The Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965: Legislating a new America. Cambridge University Press.
Gallardo, L. H., & Batalova, J. (2020). Filipino immigrants in the United States. Migration Policy Institute. https://www.migrationpolicy.org/article/filipino-immigrants-united-states-2020
Mabalon, D. B. (2013). Little Manila is in the heart: The making of the Filipina/o American community in Stockton, California. Duke University Press.
Mabalon, D. B., & Nadal, K. (2017, February). What Filipina/o American history can teach us about the recent executive order on immigration. Filipino American National History Society. https://web.archive.org/web/20190625210800/http://fanhs-national. org/filam/what-filipinao-american-history-can-teach-us-about-the-recent-executive-orderon-immigration/
Nadal, K. L., Tintiangco-Cubales, A., & David, E. J. R. (Eds.) (2022). Sage Encyclopedia of Filipina/x/o American Studies. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.
