VOL 37 NO 38 | SEPTEMBER 15 – SEPTEMBER 21, 2018

PRSRT STD U.S. Postage Paid Permit No. 746 Seattle, WA

VOL 37 NO 38 SEPTEMBER 15 – SEPTEMBER 21, 2018 FREE 36 YEARS YOUR VOICE

By Zachariah Bryan NORTHWEST ASIAN WEEKLY These days, if you want to find Sarith Sok, you just have to look up. He’s played a role in building some of Seattle’s biggest projects: the 520 bridge, the Northgate Light Rail Station, high-rise buildings in downtown and, currently, the Sea-Tac International Airport expansion.

Sok is an ironworker, a skilled labor worker who erects the structural framework of buildings.

Put another way, he helps make the dreams of architects and engineers turn into a physical reality.

After spending most of his life getting in and out of trouble and working dead-end jobs that paid “bread crumbs,” he’s found a career that pays. He can support

EDITORIAL Cartoon is straight outta 1910 » 11

HENRY GOLDING CRA star still rising » 12

Welder with torch and protective helmet (Photo provided by South Seattle Colleges)

Keiro Northwest addresses challenges CEO on fundraising: ‘Really what we’re doing is buying time’

Board Chair Frank Fukui talks about the changing demographics of Keiro Northwest

Carmen Tsuboi Chan, who helped craft a letter citing community concerns, talks about how the culture of Keiro Northwest has changed with new administration.

By Zachariah Bryan NORTHWEST ASIAN WEEKLY

of Seattle. She goes to do his laundry, she said, but mostly it’s an excuse to see him.

Her father, Frank Tsuboi, is 95 years old and he’s been here for seven years. Above him hangs

Every day, Carmen Tsuboi Chan visits her father at Keiro Northwest’s Rehabilitation and Care Center in the Central District

■

see KEIRO on 15

see JOBS on 4

Osaka wins US Open final

By HOWARD FENDRICH AP TENNIS WRITER NEW YORK (AP) — Serena Williams was penalized a game for calling the chair umpire a thief during an extended argument as the U.S. Open women’s final descended into chaos, with fans booing and play delayed before Naomi Osaka wrapped up a 6-2, 6-4 victory for her first Grand Slam title.

The biggest issue for Williams on the scoreboard on Sept. 8 was that she was outplayed by a younger version of herself in Osaka, a 20-yearold who is the first player from Japan to win a major singles tennis title and idolizes the 36-year-old American.

During the trophy ceremony in Arthur Ashe Stadium, thousands of fans jeered repeatedly, and both Osaka — the champion — and Williams — the runner-up in her bid for a record-equaling 24th see US OPEN FINAL on 11 see related Editorial on 11

AP Photo/Adam Hunger

AT THE MOVIES To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before» 9

Need a job?

Forget about a four-year degree

Naomi Osaka holds the trophy after defeating Serena Williams in the U.S. Open on Sept. 8.

412 Maynard Ave. S., Seattle, WA 98104 • t. 206.223.5559 • f. 206.223.0626 • info@nwasianweekly.com • ads@nwasianweekly.com • www.nwasianweekly.com

asianweekly northwest

2

36 YEARS

SEPTEMBER 15 – SEPTEMBER 21, 2018

■ NAMES IN THE NEWS 2018 CIE/USA - SEA annual convention

Yao, Yifei Chen, Erik Ma, Lara Yao, Connor Zhang, Kolton Zeng, Joy Matsuoka, Megan Lu, Shaoqi Wang, and Ziqi Chen for demonstrating their potential to become future leaders. 

Korean BBQ Cook Off

Photo provided by KAC-WA

Ed Lee’s family

there are so many different types of us, and we haven’t been represented in a diverse way. I just really want to show the personalities of who I am and who these girls are… It’s time to break free from that singular definition of Asian beauty.”

A few members of the cast of Crazy Rich Asians actually got to witness the show from the front row — Awkwafina was spotted grinning front row, wearing her own Claudia Li look.

Li, who was born and raised in New Zealand, said the collection is all about memories of how she grew up in New Zealand as an Asian woman. 

$1.7 million for senior centers

Photos by George Liu

Kalbi on the grill

Honorees Rodney Ho (second from left) and Donna Liu (second from right) with their family members.

The Chinese Institute of Engineers Seattle hosted its annual convention on Sept. 8 at the Westin Bellevue.

The event featured a special tribute to the late Edwin Mah “Ed” Lee — the first and only Asian American mayor of San Francisco, and Seattle native.

Jenette Ramos, a Boeing senior vice president, gave the keynote speech.

Rodney Ho, Yu-Ting Kuo, Donna Liu, Dr. Benson Shen, and Jonathan Sposato received Asian American Luminary Awards for their leadership, public service, and accomplishments in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Scholarship awards were handed out to Cindy Su, Henry Zhu, Gloria Shi, Jacob Zhang, Kenneth Ma, Kristin

The Korean American Coalition – Washington (KACWA) empowered, elevated, and fed the community with 120 pounds of kalbi at the 10th Annual Korean BBQ Cook Off on Sept. 1.

KAC-WA took home 2nd place, while the 1st place winner was Korean American Health Professionals Association. Korean American Bar Association took 3rd place. 

Claudia Li’s first runway show featured only Asian models

On Sept. 9 at New York Fashion Week, Asian designer Claudia Li showcased a cast of 35 all-Asian models in her first fashion week catwalk show.

She said, “It’s about representation within Asian women —

Asian Counseling and Referral Service

Chinese Information and Service Center and International Drop-In Center

Mayor Jenny Durkan announced $1.7 million in awards for senior centers in Seattle on Sept. 7.

Twelve nonprofit centers across the city will receive awards ranging from $67,000 to $180,000 in 2019, including Asian Counseling and Referral Service, Chinese Information and Service Center, and International Drop-In Center.

“As our City grows less affordable, we must continue to invest in our most vulnerable residents, including our senior community,” said Durkan.

“Our senior centers provide opportunities for volunteerism, lifelong learning, transportation, and healthy meals. These investments will help our neighbors live longer and enhance their quality of life.”

For more information about local programs and services for older adults, call Community Living Connections tollfree at 844-348-5464. 

Claudia Li

EXPLORE DISCOVER

GO

go.seattlecolleges.edu

asianweekly northwest

YOUR VOICE

■ COMMUNITY NEWS

SEPTEMBER 15 – SEPTEMBER 21, 2018

3

ICHS leads in quality service International Community Health Services (ICHS) announced last month that it was among 1,352 community health centers in the country selected for $125 million in federal awards from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

ICHS was also awarded the National Quality Leader and best overall clinical performance as Health Center Quality Leader distinctions.

“Being a quality leader means that ICHS patients are more likely to achieve desired health outcomes,” said Dr. Asqual Getaneh, ICHS medical director. “This points to the success our clinics are achieving across the life span from healthy pregnancies, well child care, and management of chronic conditions like diabetes. This grant will further ICHS’ efforts to widen access to high quality, affordable care among underserved communities and bring better health to greater numbers of the state’s residents.”

Getaneh explained that HRSA looked at several quality measures in the delivery of care, for example, how well the organization is taking care of diabetic individuals with hypertension, screening individuals for various cancers, and other health check-ups.

“In all of the measures they looked at, we rise above the

Beijing Dance Academy to perform in Seattle

Photo provided by ICHS

By Nina Huang NORTHWEST ASIAN WEEKLY

pack in our peers in the number of people that we screen for cancer and the number of people that receive care,” she said.

HRSA’s Quality Improvement grant awards promote continued improvements in expanding access to comprehensive care, improving care quality and outcomes, increasing comprehensive care delivery in a cost-effective way, addressing health disparities, advancing the use of health information technology, and delivering patientcentered care. ICHS’ results and standards in seven out of eight categories led to a grant award of $249,174.

Getaneh said the award is the result of many individuals who work on teams at ICHS, to work towards the organization’s mission — to provide culturally and

linguistically appropriate health and wellness services and promotes health equity for all.

There are about 1,400 community health centers in the United States and ICHS and the Family Health Centers were the only two community health centers in Washington state that have been recognized as National Quality Leaders.

Getaneh joined ICHS in June 2018. She said she was impressed by ICHS’ mission after meeting the chief medical officer and assistant medical director at a conference. She thought it would be a great opportunity to collaborate with them to deliver high quality care to vulnerable populations.

Prior to ICHS, Getaneh worked at a large community health center system called Unity Health Care in Washington, D.C. “ICHS is very proud of this recognition as a national quality leader, also in any landscape in which primary care healthcare is being provided, hospital or clinical setting, our current achievement surpasses many of our peers in that overall healthcare landscape as well,” Getaneh said.

“These awards are based on overall patient health data as a result of our care,” ICHS CEO Teresita Batayola said. “We are proud of this record of achievement. ICHS is an example of the exceptional value our nation’s system of community health centers routinely deliver, providing comprehensive care at significantly lower cost to millions of Americans.

“What this award means is that we will be able to provide see ICHS on 12

By Staff NORTHWEST ASIAN WEEKLY 30 acclaimed members from the Beijing Dance Academy will be featured in the “China in Dance – 2018” performance presented by the American Asian Performing Arts Theatre (AAPAT) and the Seattle see BEIJING DANCE on 14

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asianweekly northwest

4

SEPTEMBER 15 – SEPTEMBER 21, 2018

36 YEARS

■ COMMUNITY NEWS

Suspect arrested in ID homicide investigation SEATTLE (AP) — A 48-year-old man has been arrested in connection with a homicide investigation in the International District.

On Sept. 1st, at approximately 2:30 p.m., officers responded to a report of a man bleeding from the leg near 10th Avenue South and South Dearborn Street. The man,

JOBS from 1 his family, pay rent, and save up to buy a house. He can even go on vacation — he recently went to Lake Tahoe to ride jet skis.

For Sok, it’s a refreshing change of pace.

He first came to Washington as a 2-year-old Cambodian refugee, escaping the genocide of the late 1970s with his parents. He grew up on welfare and in housing authorities and, because of the environment he lived in, he said, he got involved in things he shouldn’t have gotten involved in.

Becoming an ironworker changed everything.

“It made me a better man,” he said. “Made me respect life more.”

It’s a good job, too, he said. He enjoys the camaraderie and the hard work. And what’s more, he didn’t need a four-year degree to get here.

A report published last year by the Washington State Auditor suggested that schools and parents are steering most kids toward bachelor’s degrees, without exploring other opportunities that cost less, result in more pay, and, at least in some cases, may be a better fit.

What’s more, Asian Americans are often underrepresented in these types of jobs.

In Washington’s apprenticeship programs, which includes everything from lashes and massage to aerospace manufacturing, Asians account for only 2 percent of participants.

Meanwhile, Asians makeup about 9 percent of Washington’s population and are the state’s largest and fastest growing minority group.

Nearly every other racial group (save for Hispanic) sees representation proportionate to their share of total state population.

During a time when the economy has recovered and when Seattle is busting at the seams with new construction, this all results in a troubling labor shortage.

Mary Lockman, a college navigator for South Seattle College (SSC)’s Georgetown Campus, which acts as a hub for pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship programs, said more businesses are asking for workers. It’s not hard for anyone with a good work ethic and an ounce of experience to land a job.

John Lederer, executive dean of career and workforce development at North Seattle College, said community colleges represent a valid and lucrative career option.

“It’s really possible to do very well in terms of earnings without a bachelor’s degree, if you’re smart about it,” he said.

He pointed to a study from Georgetown University’s Center on Education and the Workforce as proof. According to the study, called “The Five Rules of the College and Career Game,” 28 percent of associate’s degree holders and many workers with one-year certificates earn more than the average bachelor’s degree holder.

An associates in the STEM fields or health care can earn more money than a bachelor’s degree in the arts ($52,000-$60,000 versus $50,000), according to the study. Even a certificate in the STEM fields or a typical certificate for a blue collar job averages between $45,000 and $48,000.

“It is possible to identify where an associate’s degree is worth more than a bachelor’s degree, if it’s the right field,” Lederer said.

These degrees and certificates can also be more likely to lead directly to jobs than

56, was unresponsive and later pronounced dead.

On Sept. 7, officers were dispatched to the 9000 block of Seward Park Avenue South to investigate a domestic violence assault. The officers recognized the suspect’s name from a recent bulletin and called for additional units.

Police ordered the 48-year-old man from the apartment

many bachelor’s degrees, too. That’s because it’s often left up to Washington’s network of community colleges to respond to local labor demands and providing certificate and degree programs to bolster the workforce. This includes typical programs for health care, technology, and manufacturing, but local colleges often tackle more specific demands.

“The colleges are the conduit between our community and the employer market,” said Veronica Wade, SSC’s executive dean in career and workforce development.

For example, North Seattle College created a program for property management. With all of the buildings being built in Seattle, there aren’t enough property managers to look after them, Lederer said. And there aren’t any programs along the entire West Coast to help fill that demand.

“We saw that as an easy opportunity to fill a void that’s pretty serious,” Lederer said.

Similarly, Seattle Central College (SCC) worked with Kaiser Permanente to create a new program to combat a “huge shortage” of medical assistants, said Chris Sullivan, SCC’s executive dean for career and workforce development.

“We can’t train enough MAs to fill the gap,” he said.

At South Seattle College, there’s a range of programs with specific applications, like culinary arts, automotive technology, aviation maintenance, and wine studies.

On that last one, Wade laughs. “I think that’s something that surprises people, to get training in something like wine. It breaks some stereotypes on what’s available, what we do,” she said. (North Seattle’s watchmaking institute is another example of this.)

SSC also has a public-private partnership with the maritime industry that resulted in a six-month-long shipyard welding program.

Wade said one company realized that much of its workforce is starting to age out and needed to work toward bringing in a younger crop of workers.

Seattle Police Chief Carmen Best and Officer Sue Wong

It’s a trend that’s creating job opportunities across a variety of fields. Carrie McNally, a recruiter for the Seattle Police Department (SPD), said SPD is expected to recruit about 100 people per year for the next three years.

That’s due to growing demands from an aging population and because 30 percent of the police force is currently eligible to retire.

and after a brief standoff, he was taken into custody.

Homicide detectives interviewed the suspect and have developed probable cause to book him into the King County Jail for investigation of homicide and domestic violence assault. 

“In my career, that’s the most hiring I’ve ever seen,” she said.

And, like other fields, SPD doesn’t require much experience. Prospective officers just need to have a good work history, a clean record, and to be 21 years old by the end of the police academy.

Beyond that?

“We feel confident we can teach them how to be good police officers,” McNally said.

Seattle Community Colleges are working on new ways to communicate with prospective students that there are opportunities.

Earlier this year, they launched a new website called “College to Career,” a gathering spot for all of the programs available across all three campuses, divided by interest. Each program description includes what jobs it helps prepare people for, how much it will cost, and how long it will take.

“It’s good for parents and for potential students who just want to figure out, ‘What are my options?’” Lederer said.

The state auditor report concluded that there’s a severe lack of awareness among high school students about education and career paths beyond four-year universities, even as employers are reporting that many jobs requiring less education are going unfilled.

Joe Hannan, the training coordinator for Local 528 Cement Masons and Plasters, said in the three years he’s been at his job, he has yet to see a single high school student express interest in joining his apprenticeship program.

This, despite going to “tons of job fairs” and showing students around the apprenticeship grounds down in the Georgetown neighborhood of Seattle.

Hannan said he doesn’t ask for much. He doesn’t require prior experience in the field.

He’s had apprentices who have never seen cement poured in their life.

“As long as they got a good attitude, show up every day,” people can work in the concrete business, he said.

“This is the same qualifications as McDonald’s,” said Lockman, the college navigator from SSC, which acts as a hub for several local apprenticeship programs, including the masons union.

Hannan agreed. “We get a lot of McDonald’s on our resumes,” he said. “We don’t need prior experience. You just need to show interest.”

But when it comes to why recent high school graduates aren’t expressing interest, he can only shrug. Maybe they’re not ready for a full-time career, he said.

Lockman said it goes deeper than that, though.

“For 13 years, they’re being directed to academics,” she said. “And when you say, hey! Let’s do something different” – well, it doesn’t work.

Hannan said the idea of working skilled labor jobs should be planted at least by junior high.

The audit recommended that schools should improve career guidance given to students in the 7th or 8th grade, concluding that “when students are given better upfront information about career opportunities, and an understanding of local, regional, and state labor market conditions, they can make more informed educational choices that help them prepare for entering the job market.”

The audit also recommended more counselors and specialized courses at high schools

CERTIFICATES AND TWO-YEAR DEGREE PATHWAYS AT

EDMONDS COMMUNITY COLLEGE CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT edcc.edu/const Become a construction manager or building inspector. The job market is strong for both career paths, especially with the increasing complexity of today’s construction projects.

CULINARY ARTS edcc.edu/clart Are you creative? Do you like to cook?

Employers large and small are actively recruiting career-oriented, trained employees in the fast-growing field of culinary arts. Opportunities exist in many diverse areas, including hotels, restaurants, catering, and corporate food services.

HORTICULTURE edcc.edu/hort The program focuses on the scientific foundation and creative and artistic aspects of horticulture, offering a holistic approach to horticulture education that addresses intellectual, practical, and artistic development. Learn about landscape management, design, and restoration; and nursery and greenhouse production.

Washington Aerospace Training and Research (WATR) washingtonaerospace.com WATR Center offers certificate programs that are designed to get students trained and ready for highpaying jobs in the shortest possible amount of time. Certificates include: Manufacturing Assembly Mechanic, Electrical Assembly Mechanic, Quality Assurance, Tooling, and Composites.

For more information, visit edcc.edu/ schedule.

Registration is open for fall quarter.

Classes begin Sept. 17.

that help students explore career opportunities that don’t require four-year degrees.

If more is done to increase awareness about these well-paying jobs, and the limited education needed to get them, maybe, eventually, there will be more people like Sok. As an ironworker, Sok has the privilege of being able to point to physical proof of his success. He said when he drives around with his friends in downtown, he’s able to tell them, “Oh, I worked on that, I worked on that.”

He said his favorite project was a high-rise he helped build in downtown, “Knowing I had my hands adding to the Seattle skyline.”  Zachariah can be reached at info@nwasianweekly.com.

asianweekly northwest

YOUR VOICE

SEPTEMBER 15 – SEPTEMBER 21, 2018

■ WORLD NEWS

5

Thai police arrest 12 for sharing Facebook rape allegation BANGKOK (AP) — Police in Thailand have arrested 12 people who shared a Facebook post about a British tourist’s allegation that police had refused to accept her rape complaint.

A lawyer for the 12 Thai men said on Sept. 6 that they were arrested in several different provinces on charges of violating the Computer Crime Act. They could face up to five years in prison and fines if convicted of spreading false information and damaging national security.

Police deny turning away the British woman and say their investigation determined that her claim of being raped

on the island of Koh Tao in June was untrue.

The Computer Crime Act has been used to prosecute people for posting about the country’s monarchy or political issues but rarely for purely criminal cases.

The 19-year-old woman, who has since returned to England, has told journalists she believes she was drugged by someone who spiked her drink, and woke up on a beach to find that she had been raped and robbed.

“From our initial investigation, we concluded and reported to our police commissioner that at the moment there is no evidence or witnesses to prove that the incident

has happened, not on a drug claim or a rape claim,’’ Deputy Tourist Police chief Maj. Gen. Surachet Hakpan, head of the investigation, said at a news conference.

Koh Tao, though popular with foreign backpackers, has gained an unsavory reputation since the murders of British nationals Hannah Witheridge and David Miller, who were beaten to death on a beach there in 2014.

That case has been plagued with speculation that two migrant workers from Myanmar convicted and sentenced see RAPE ALLEGATION on 11

Alibaba’s Jack Ma to step down

By JOE McDONALD AP BUSINESS WRITER

Jack Ma

BEIJING (AP) — Jack Ma, who founded e-commerce giant Alibaba Group and helped launch China’s e-commerce boom, announced on Sept.

9 that he will step down as the company’s chairman next September.

In a letter released by Alibaba, Ma said he will be

succeeded by CEO Daniel Zhang, an 11-year veteran of the company. Ma handed over the CEO post to Zhang in 2013 as part of what he said was a long-planned succession process.

Ma, a former English teacher, founded Alibaba in 1999 in an apartment in the eastern city of Hangzhou to connect Chinese exporters with foreign retailers. It expanded into consumer retailing, online finance, cloud computing and other services, becoming the world’s biggest e-commerce company by total value of goods sold across all its platforms.

Ma, who turned 54 on Sept. 9, became one of the world’s richest entrepreneurs and one of China’s best-known business figures. The Hurun Run report, which follows

China’s wealthy, estimates his net worth at $37 billion.

Alibaba said Ma will remain a member of the Alibaba Partnership, a group of 36 people that has the right to nominate a majority of the company’s board of directors.

“This transition demonstrates that Alibaba has stepped up to the next level of corporate governance from a company that relies on individuals, to one built on systems of organizational excellence and a culture of talent development,’’ Ma said in his letter.

Ma said he wants to “return to education’’ but gave no details of his plans. see MA on 13

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Tosh Okamoto was born on October 8, 1926 to Juhei and Sugie Okamoto in Seattle Washington. He passed away peacefully on May 19, 2018 with his family at his side.

He was driven by family, community, justice, fairness and equity, and his energy and focus on these commitments leaves an enduring legacy.

He married his “dream girl,” Toshiko Akagi in November 6, 1949, and had children Joyce, Susan, John and Sheila. His family grew to 9 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren.

A public celebration will be held on September 22, 2018, 2 p.m., at the Blaine Memorial Methodist Church, 3001 24th Avenue South, Seattle, Washington.

In lieu of flowers, gifts can be made to: Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church, Nisei Veterans Committee, and Keiro Northwest.

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KING COUNTY REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS ADVERTISEMENT Proposals will be received for E00559E18, Engineering Services for Sediment Cleanup for the Upper Reach of the Lower Duwamish Waterway; by the King County Procurement and Payables Section, 3rd Floor, 401 Fifth Avenue, Seattle, WA 98104, until 12:00 PM on September 26, 2018.

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asianweekly northwest

6

SEPTEMBER 15 – SEPTEMBER 21, 2018

36 YEARS

■ COMMUNITY CALENDAR SEP 14 CHILDREN’S MID-AUTUMN MOON FESTIVAL Donnie Chin International Children’s Park, Seattle 4-6 p.m.

14 & 15 RENTON MULTICULTURAL FESTIVAL 9/14 at 6 p.m, Carco Theatre, 1717 S.E. Maple Valley Hwy., Renton 9/15 at 11 a.m., Renton Pavilion Event Center & Piazza Park, 233 Burnett Ave. S., Renton rentonwa.gov/rentonfestival

15 KIN ON’S 2018 ANNUAL SENIORS’ DAY Eastside Baha’i Center, 16007 N.E. 8th St., Bellevue 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. kinon.org/seniors-day 206-556-2237 TACOMA MOON FESTIVAL 2018 Tacoma Chinese Reconciliation Park, 1741 N. Schuster Parkway, Tacoma 1-7 p.m.

16 BUNKA GAKUEN FASHION SHOW FROM TOKYO, JAPAN Broadway Performance Hall, 1625 Broadway, Seattle 1-3 p.m.

RSVP for free tickets 425-483-5974

17 WEST SEATTLE & BALLARD LINK EXTENSIONS NEIGHBORHOOD FORUM AND OPEN HOUSE: BALLARD INTERBAY Ballard Eagleson VFW 2812 N.W. Market St., Seattle 5:30 p.m.

RSVP at wsblink.participate. online soundtransit.org

18-23 28TH JAPAN AMERICA GRASSROOTS SUMMIT Japan-America Society of the State of Washington, 3010 77th Ave. S.E., St. 102, Mercer Island 10 a.m.

19 SHARON H. CHANG & FRIENDS The Elliott Bay Book Company, 1521 Tenth Ave., Seattle 7 p.m.

20 HAPPY HOUR FOOD WALK Seattle’s CID 4 p.m.

20-23 THE 4-DAY FREE HEALTH CLINIC Seattle Center 206-684-7200 skcclinic@seattlecenter.org

21

12 p.m.

TAP-SEA: SEPTEMBER VOLUNTEER AT FARESTART FareStart, 700 Virginia St., Seattle 10 a.m.-3 p.m.

KKOCDOOSEH, FROM SIHEUNG, SOUTH KOREA Rialto Theatre Tacoma Free admission 253-383-3900 apcc96.org

CHINA, SILICON VALLEY, AND THE DUAL VISIONS OF AI WITH DR. KAI-FU LEE The Collective 400 Dexter Ave. N., Seattle 6:30 p.m.

FREE VGOC CHAMBER PERFORMANCE Kinokuniya Seattle 6-8 p.m.

28-30

PARK(ING) DAY 2018 Seattle 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

23

22

VIETNAMESE LANTERN FESTIVAL 2801 S.W. Thistle St., Seattle 4:30-8 p.m.

Free admission vanlangseattle.org

MID-AUTUMN GALA & SINGING FUNDRAISER China Harbor Restaurant, 2040 Westlake Ave. N., Seattle 5 p.m. $60/ticket cisc-seattle.org 2ND KOREAN CHUSEOK FESTIVAL 4851 S. Tacoma Way, Tacoma 12 p.m. apcc96.org JOHN OKADA, A CELEBRATION AND BOOK LAUNCH The Seattle Public Library 2 p.m.

NORTHWEST FOLKLIFE AND SEATTLE CENTER PRESENT 5TH ANNUAL SEATTLE CHILDREN’S FESTIVAL Seattle Center 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

6TH ANNUAL WOMEN IN BUDDHISM CONFERENCE Seattle Betsuin Buddhist Temple, 1417 S. Main St., Seattle 9:30 a.m. $45 seattlebetsuin.com

THE REFUGE OUTDOOR FESTIVAL King County’s Tolt-Macdonald Park $45-$300 refugeoutdoorfestival.com

24

28

9TH ANNUAL ETHNIC MEDIA CANDIDATES MEET AND GREET Joyale Seafood Restaurant 900 S. Jackson St., Seattle 5 p.m.

RSVP to juliephamnvn@gmail.com 206-334-5200

THROUGH OCTOBER 7

25 2ND EDITION OF HUM BOWS, NOT HOT DOGS! Wing Luke Museum 719 S. King St., Seattle 6 p.m.

27 FOUNDERS FORUM, “CONVERSATION WITH BEN ZHANG” Davis Wright Tremaine 1201 Third Ave. Ste. 2200, Seattle

13TH TASVEER SOUTH ASIAN FILM FESTIVAL tasveer.org

29 WASHINGTON STATE COMMISSION ON ASIAN PACIFIC AMERICAN AFFAIRS’ PUBLIC MEETING Gonzaga University School of Law, Room 314, 721 N. Cincinnati St., Spokane sam.le@capaa.wa.gov 360-725-5667 “BACKSTORY: PRISONERS IN THEIR OWN LAND” NVC Hall, 1212 S. King St., Seattle 2-4 p.m. nvcfoundation.org

View the solution on page 14

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asianweekly northwest

YOUR VOICE

■ ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

SEPTEMBER 15 – SEPTEMBER 21, 2018

7

Y’all need to stop calling Dwayne Johnson the Rock. He is a thespian!

A-POP! ALL THINGS API (HEAVY ON THE PI!) IN POPULAR CULTURE!

VIVIEN NGO

DAVE BAUTISTA

DWAYNE JOHNSON JASON MOMOA

By Stacy Nguyen NORTHWEST ASIAN WEEKLY Hey, guys! Here’s a really manly edition of A-pop! Because it just happened like that!

Dave Bautista threatens to bow out of future “Guardian” installments because he is over Disney Dave Bautista is half Filipino and plays Drax in Marvel’s “Guardians of the Galaxy” franchise. The Marvel Cinematic Universe is actually owned by Disney, and Disney fired “Guardians” director James Gunn about a month ago because some shock-joke tweets that Gunn wrote 10 years ago were uncovered. (I just made up the term shock-joke, I think. It’s a joke where you say something so terrible to shock someone

MACAULAY CULKIN

into laughing. Nearly 100 percent of the time, you don’t actually mean what you are saying. This is a very divisive type of joke because half the people who hear it think you are serious. Disney seems to be in the latter camp.)

Bautista, who is a true ride or die, is really pissed at Disney for being a punk. He said, “I’m not really happy with what they’ve (Disney) done with James Gunn. They’re putting the movie off. It’s on hold indefinitely. To be honest with you, I don’t know if I want to work for Disney … I’ve been very vocal about the way I feel. I’m not afraid to admit the way I feel.”

It’s always crazy impressive to me, when people in highprofile jobs are willing to walk away from money and also fame because they are sticking to their principles.

By the way, I make shock-jokes all the time. After this bit of news broke, I got scared and was tempted to scrub all my social media profiles lest I get fired for the stuff I tweeted

9th Annual

Ethnic Media

Jason Momoa mere months away from righting how terrible the DC Extended Universe is, right? Right? Maybe?

Okay, so “Aquaman” isn’t due out until Dec. 21, but I am writing about it now because I watched “Justice League” for the first time over the weekend and suddenly in the middle of that terrible movie, I was like, “Wait a minute! Jason Momoa is Hawaiian! Did I forget because he’s so handsome?”

No, actually, to be real, sometimes I forget because sometimes I’m bad at looking out for the PI in API. But not this month! Not this month! I see you! see A-POP on 13

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8

36 YEARS

SEPTEMBER 15 – SEPTEMBER 21, 2018

■ AT THE MOVIES

To All the Boys I ’ve Loved Before

By Vivian Nguyen NORTHWEST ASIAN WEEKLY

The Netflix original movie “To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before” has all the hallmarks of an indulgent romantic comedy: beautiful high schoolers (as in, actors), sharp-witted dialogue, and all the feels to make you feel like you’re falling in the love for the first time.

Based on author Jenny Han’s novel of the same name, the movie tells the story of Lara Jean Covey (Lana Condor), a reserved yet charming 16-year-old girl who writes and addresses love letters to her biggest crushes without the intent of ever mailing them. Lara Jean has a rich imagination, and she’d much rather live in her fantasy world of being in love than face the reality and risks that come with it.

One of Lara Jean’s crushes is Josh (Israel Broussard), who’s the boyfriend of her older sister, Margot (Janel Parrish). Without spoiling the film, the love letters secretly get mailed out, much to Lara Jean’s chagrin. When one of the love letters finds its way to Josh, Lara Jean pretends that another crush, Peter (Noah Centineo), is her boyfriend, to avoid dealing with a confrontation with Josh. It’s the perfect set-up for a quintessential rom-com.

Coming on the heels of the critically acclaimed box office movie “Crazy Rich Asians,” “To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before” reflects the rise of Asian American protagonists on mainstream platforms. Both Condor and Constance Wu, who plays the heroine in “Crazy Rich Asians,” are cast as Asian American leads in rom-coms. It’s a foreign yet welcome feeling to see these faces in rom-coms — a genre that previously excluded Asian Americans from the spotlight.

There’s nothing new with the fake relationship trope found in “To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before” — though it’s honestly one of my favorite rom-com clichés — but it’s precisely because it’s centered on a trope that I find this movie interesting.

Many well-known films featuring Asian Americans or Asians have largely focused on high-stakes drama or action. But for once, these successful rom-coms let Asian

■ COMMUNITY NEWS

Vivian Nguyen can be reached at info@nwasianweekly.com.

seattlepolicejobs.com

Photo courtesy of Jessica Kai Curry

“Beyond Reconciliation” event highlights JapanUS partnership

American characters be the center of stories that are simply fun, light-hearted entertainment. “To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before” does this particularly well since it focuses on a familiar story — one’s first love — so there’s a relatable element for all, regardless of race. To have a character of color drive a film that isn’t focused on race is the ultimate litmus test of an effective, universal story, and it’s something that “To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before” achieves.

Condor, who’s best-known for her role as Jubilee in the superhero film “X-Men: Apocalypse,” gives a heartwarming performance as the movie’s lead, and she does an exceptional job of bringing a shy, nuanced character to life on screen. Centineo also delivers as the charming, vulnerable jock, and was well-casted as the leading man.

The two actors have undeniable chemistry, with many of the memorable and weightier scenes built from the tension they share.

“To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before” has gotten some criticism for not featuring any Asian American male romantic leads. Lara Jean’s love interests are mostly white, though there is one boy who is Black, but he’s also gay in the movie, so that romance dies immediately for that reason. One of the best scenes in the movie sees Lara Jean and Peter enter a contract for their fake relationship. The two define expectations and boundaries for each other — no kissing, but a hand in Lara Jean’s back jean pocket is OK — and as they debate the rules, it quickly becomes clear to the viewer that they’ll be falling for each other. And that might be the best thing about this movie — these characters have no idea what they’re in for, but we do. It’s like a wink to the viewer, and the icing on the cake is watching the relationship unfold: the highs, the lows, the messy ride of it all, and knowing that the mandatory feel-good ending awaits. 

Beyond Reconciliation Nisei veterans pose with US and Japanese soldiers, NVC, the Japanese Consul General to Seattle, OKK, and other participants.

By Jessica Kai Curry NORTHWEST ASIAN WEEKLY The room was packed to the gills. At one table sat dignitaries from the United States and Japan, including U.S. congressmen, the Japanese Consul General in Seattle, and high-ranking officers from the U.S. and Japanese armed forces. At another

table were surviving members of the 442nd battalion, including a soldier of the 100th infantry — a segregated Japanese American Army unit that is the most decorated for its size in history — as well as Japanese Americans who served in U.S. military intelligence. see NISEI VETERANS on 16

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asianweekly northwest

YOUR VOICE

SEPTEMBER 15 – SEPTEMBER 21, 2018

■ NATIONAL NEWS

9

Pediatric resident meets nurse who cared for him as newborn

PALO ALTO, Calif. — Pediatric resident Brandon Seminatore was doing a month-long rotation at the same neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) where he was cared for as a newborn, when he came across someone from his past.

Vilma Wong, 54, has worked in the NICU at Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital Stanford for 32 years.

The East Bay Times reported on Sept. 2 that Wong asked Seminatore who he was when she saw him standing near an incubator wearing blue scrubs.

Seminatore told her and she thought his last name sounded very familiar.

“I kept asking where he was from and he told me that he was from San Jose, California, and that he was a premature baby born at our hospital,” said Wong. She remembered being the primary nurse to a baby with the same last name.

“I asked him if his dad was a police officer and there was a big silence, and then he asked me if I was Vilma. I said yes.”

It turns out that Seminatore’s mother, remembering Wong’s care, had told him to look for a “Vilma” in the NICU. But he thought it was pretty unlikely that he’d find her, assuming she’d already retired.

The hospital’s Facebook page posted a photo of Wong and baby Brandon, circa 1990, alongside a photo of their reunion last month. The post, of course, has since gone viral.

Seminatore — who is now training to become a child neurologist — weighed 2 pounds and 6 ounces, the size of a small pineapple, when he was born in 1990.

He said, “Meeting Vilma showed me the dedication and love she has for her career. She cares deeply for her patients, to the

Photos from Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital Facebook page

By Staff NORTHWEST ASIAN WEEKLY

Vilma Wong, circa 1990, holding baby Brandon.

Vilma Wong (left) and Brandon Seminatore reunited last month

point that she was able to remember a patient’s name almost three decades later. I’ve come full-circle and I’m taking care of babies with the nurse that took care of me.”

The daughter of Chinese parents, Wong grew up in Nicaragua and moved to the United States when she was 16, where she earned her BS and MS degrees in nursing.

A mother of two, Wong said it was extremely satisfying to see patients like Seminatore, who was critically ill at birth, thrive.  Staff can be reached at info@nwasianweekly.com.

Julie Chen absent from ‘The Talk’

By ANDREW DALTON

Julie Chen (left) with husband Les Moonves

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Julie Chen, wife of Les Moonves, was absent on Sept. 10 but a central topic on “The Talk,” her talk show on the network, a day after a new round of sexual misconduct allegations brought the departure of the CBS chief executive.

In what was supposed to be a celebratory season premiere for “The Talk,” its four other panelists walked out somberly without Chen, who acts as host and moderator and whose

absence had not been announced.

Sharon Osbourne choked back tears as she spoke about Chen, who has an 8-year-old son with Moonves.

“As you all know, Julie’s husband is in the news,” Osbourne said. “And she’s taking off time to be with her family.”

Chen also hosts the prime-time reality show “Big Brother” on CBS, which is in its 20th season. She has been among the network’s most prominent personalities and public faces — especially with her added role of wife of the

chairman and CEO. In a statement, Chen said she would be off “The Talk” for a few days, but would be on “Big Brother.” Her brief statement did not address the new allegations against her husband.

She publicly supported her husband after a first round of accusations last month.

Osbourne expressed love and support for her friend and co-host, a sentiment seconded by the show’s other three panelists, Sara Gilbert, Eve see CHEN on 14

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asianweekly northwest

10

36 YEARS

SEPTEMBER 15 – SEPTEMBER 21, 2018

■ PUBLISHER’S BLOG

6 outrageous things I did in college for survival

By Assunta Ng NORTHWEST ASIAN WEEKLY Going to college in the United States is an incredible gift, and the lessons I learned during that time still resonate with me today. Had I stayed in Hong Kong where I was raised, I would likely be a short-sighted and gutless conformist. Throughout my college adventures, six of them stand out, which shaped who I am today.

I am more honest than President Clinton when dealing with the drug question. He never said if he did drugs in his younger days. “I didn’t inhale,” was his answer.

When I first arrived in the United States as an international student, I didn’t know anything about drugs. In my senior year, I discovered drugs by accident. A group of University of Washington (UW) Daily reporters and editors organized a party of 15 or 17. Suddenly, everyone broke away from conversations, eating and drinking, and sat down in a circle. Then, someone in the middle lit a half-sized cigarette, and inhaled slowly and deeply. He looked satisfied or high, and instantly passed it to the person next to him. I had no idea what was happening or what they were smoking.

What made everyone look so mesmerized after one puff?

My curiosity quickly turned to alarm.

What should I do when the cigarette comes to me? Should I inhale? Would my peers think that I’m weird if I don’t? Did I want to be part of an unhygienic ritual, everyone passing germs on that joint? I was lost and confused.

Finally, the joint came to me. In a split second, I passed it onto the next person.

What repelled me was the awful smell.

Only one other person, besides me, skipped the weed. When the party was over, I found out what it was. I’m glad that I have never inhaled in my life. And the group still accepted me afterwards.

I realized that I didn’t have to conform.

Peer pressure was powerless. I am my own person. Like Nelson Mandela, “I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul.” I was proud that I resisted.

5. Asked a professor to change my grade

Have you ever asked your professor to change your grade? I did once.

When I found out my GPA from my first quarter at the UW, I was devastated. I got 3.25, three Bs, and one A, out of 18 credits.

It wasn’t bad, but it wasn’t impressive on a scholarship application. The one B I

Photo provided by Wing Luke Museum

6. Did I inhale?

Bruce Lee exhibition ongoing now at the Wing Luke Asian Museum.

received was an English class, and I had counted on getting an A. That B would lessen my chance for a scholarship. I decided to talk to my professor.

Perhaps too overwhelmed with emotion, I didn’t have a plan and I went to his office at Padelford Hall without an appointment.

You could say I was bold. Frankly, I was desperate. Never mind that my English was not perfect. I had been in America for just over a year.

The campus was quiet as most students had left the campus for winter break.

“How come I got a B?” I got straight to the point.

He could have said, “Get out.” Or, “How dare you?”

Instead, he explained that I had improved a lot. “It was very close to an A. It’s a B+,” he replied. (At the time, the UW didn’t have a decimal system for + or -.)

“But a B+ is not an A,” I responded. “No one knows I am getting a B+.”

“Why do you want an A?” he asked.

“If I don’t get an A, I will not qualify for a scholarship,” I said. My mind turned to all the financial woes I would soon face, having to pay out-of-state tuition prices.

We sparred for a few moments. To my astonishment, he said, “I will change your grade to an A.” I was stunned and speechless.

I had to admit, my persuasive power was weak, but I was persistent. Up to this day, I still don’t understand why he agreed to change my grade.

I won a full tuition scholarship for my junior and senior years. That financial support from the UW transformed my educational experience. Without financial worry, I was able to concentrate on my studies — full of hope, bliss, and determination to succeed.

I wouldn’t recommend confronting your professors if you have a low grade. I didn’t have any choice. Not all professors care to listen. You should probably develop a better

strategy than I did.

What he taught me was powerful.

Support our young people in different ways. Maybe, he was the one who inspired me later to start many youth programs, which involved scholarships and leadership training, through the Northwest Asian Weekly Foundation. Perhaps, he realized that grades are not the only important thing, that the learning is.

4. Bruce Lee and me

I had a close encounter with the legendary Bruce Lee. I was working for the UW Daily when Lee died in Hong Kong in the summer of 1973. The editor called, “Bruce Lee just died. Get the story.” He didn’t ask if I could, it sounded like a command. The only lead he gave me, “He’s a UW student.”

All I knew about Bruce Lee then was that he was a movie star. I had no idea who his family and friends were. Worse still, I had no idea that he had ties to Seattle.

Before I could say no, the editor said he expected the story for the next issue, just a few days before the deadline. The assumption was, I was Asian, I should know the Asian community. Wrong. I was just an outsider, confined to living in a dormitory, and I ventured outside of campus only when necessary.

There was no internet. So I called my family and friends in Hong Kong to find out how Lee died. My aunt, a big Lee fan, was boiling mad towards Lee’s girlfriend. He died in her home, and my aunt blamed her.

In the meantime, my digging centered around Chinatown. Someone said Lee used to work for and live with the late Ruby Chow’s family. It was easy to find Ruby Chow, listed in the white pages.

I called and got Chow on the line. When I told her my purpose for calling, she hung up. (Years later, I met Chow, but I never told her about this incident. She was supportive of my career at Asa Mercer Junior High, as well as the Asian Weekly.)

Another source told me that Lee’s kung fu classmate and roommate, Big Brother Ju, owned a Chinese restaurant in Everett.

My then-boyfriend (now husband) drove me all the way to Everett. Afraid that Ju would hang up on me, I didn’t want to risk calling. We waited until the restaurant opened on a Sunday afternoon. When he and his wife came out, I introduced myself.

He gave me much insight about Lee. The Asian and U.S. media had no stories about Lee’s Seattle life. My Daily story was the only one at the time, to give details about Lee’s life in Seattle. Most importantly, my story was the first one to confirm that Lee never graduated from the UW, whereas other media reported that he did. It was then that my passion grew for journalism.

I was scared when the editor assigned me the story. Now, I am grateful that he did.

Our confidence doesn’t just sprout up out of nowhere. It takes hard work and trials to build up our ability and competence. I was thrilled that I had not let him or myself down.

Thanks editor Mike for the opportunity.

3. Faking my first job in America

Waitress was my first job in this country.

To make more money from tips, you have to work in nice restaurants, serving not just food, but cocktails as well. Anyone serving drinks has to be 21. No one told me about the age rule.

My first waitressing job was in Oregon, and I lied about having prior waitressing experience in Hong Kong. My parents would have never let me work as a waitress, for fear of losing face. Waiting tables was not considered a good job in those days.

While I got past the “experience” issue, I learned that I was still not qualified — the age factor. One riverboat restaurant hired me, but told me not to serve cocktails because of my age. It was difficult, especially see BLOG on 16

asianweekly northwest

YOUR VOICE

SEPTEMBER 15 – SEPTEMBER 21, 2018

■ EDITORIAL

11

Cartoon sparks outrage

Racism, sexism, and double standards.

Mark Knight, the editorial cartoonist for the News Corpowned Herald Sun in Melbourne, Australia, takes the cake for all three.

Knight sparked outrage worldwide for his controversial cartoon on Sept. 10, depicting Serena Williams as a toddler having a tantrum, stomping her racket — a pacifier on the court by her side — following her defeat by Naomi Osaka during the Women’s Singles Finals match in the U.S. Open.

Williams clashed with chair umpire Carlos Ramos, demanding an apology after he initially issued a warning for a code violation in the second set’s second game for receiving coaching, which is not allowed during Grand Slam matches.

Williams did break her racket and sports commentators have since criticized how she handled things, calling her petulant, referring to her “tantrum.”

While the debate rages on as to the appropriateness of Williams’ behavior and Ramos’ penalties, was it really necessary for Knight to draw Williams with oversized lips and the large body frame that is rounded like the old “mammy” cartoons?

Knight used the most age-old, Jim Crow-era, stereotypical, racist imagery here to demean, mock, and, worst, dehumanize Serena. It’s blatant and undeniable.

It’s also notable that Knight chose to give Osaka — who

US OPEN FINAL from 1 Grand Slam trophy — cried.

Williams put an arm around Osaka’s shoulder and told the crowd: “I know you guys were here rooting, and I was rooting, too, but let’s make this the best moment we can. ... We’re going to get through this and let’s be positive. So congratulations, Naomi. No more booing.’’

Added Williams, with a laugh: “I really hope to continue to go and play here again. We’ll see.’’

This was the third high-profile conflict with an official for Williams at Flushing Meadows, following her infamous tirade after a foot fault in the 2009 semifinals against Kim Clijsters, and a dispute over a hindrance call in the 2011 final against Sam Stosur.

What the 2018 final will forever be remembered for is the way Williams clashed with chair umpire Carlos Ramos, demanding an apology after he initially issued a warning for a code violation in the second set’s second game for receiving

Herald Sun cartoon by Mark Knight

is Japanese and Haitian — blonde hair, as if to play up her innocence (and erase her Blackness) in opposition to an “angry” dark-skinned Black woman. Osaka is essentially whitewashed into a faceless blonde being asked to let Williams win.

Knight said his cartoon was only about Williams’ behavior on the court and said those suggesting it was racist or sexist were misinterpreting it.

He also said he had “absolutely no knowledge” of the Jim

coaching, which is not allowed during Grand Slam matches.

Williams objected right away, saying she would never cheat. After the match ended, in an interview with ESPN, Williams’ coach, Patrick Mouratoglou, acknowledged he had tried to signal Williams, but said he didn’t think she had seen him — and added that he thinks every player gets coaching during matches.

Briefly, Williams appeared to be working her way back into the match, breaking Osaka for the only time to go up 3-1 in the second set. But Williams played a poor game right after that to get broken immediately, and she smashed her racket on the court, destroying it. That drew a second code violation — and, automatically, cost Williams a point. When she realized that the next game had started with Osaka ahead 15-love, Williams told Ramos he should have retracted the initial warning for coaching.

“I have never cheated in my life!’’ Williams said. “You owe me an apology.’’

She resumed arguing with Ramos later, saying, “You stole

Crow-era cartoons of Blacks and blamed social media for fuelling the outrage.

Whether Knight intended for his cartoon to be racist or not, people have said that they feel it is. Instead of issuing an apology, or learning from it, he has just doubled down — that’s really sad.

The Herald Sun’s editor, Damon Johnston, and Executive Chairman of News Corp Australasia, Michael Miller, threw their support behind Knight and the cartoon.

The paper even republished the cartoon on its front-page on Sept. 12. Under the front-page headline, “WELCOME TO PC WORLD,” the Herald Sun wrote that “if the selfappointed censors of Mark Knight get their way on his Serena Williams cartoon, our new politically correct life will be very dull indeed.” The cover included caricatures of other Australian and foreign political leaders drawn by Knight.

The veteran cartoonist suspended his Twitter account to protect his family and friends, he said.

News Corp — we agree with author J.K. Rowling on this one.

“Well done on reducing one of the greatest sportswomen alive to racist and sexist tropes and turning a second great sportswoman into a faceless prop.” 

a point from me. You’re a thief, too.’’

He responded by issuing a third code violation, which results in a lost game. That made it 5-3 for Osaka.

Ramos called both players over to explain his ruling, and Williams began laughing, saying: “Are you kidding me?’’ Then she asked to speak to tournament referee Brian Earley, who walked onto the court along with a Grand Slam supervisor. Williams told them the whole episode “is not fair,’’ and said: “This has happened to me too many times.’’

“To lose a game for saying that is not fair,’’ Williams said.

“There’s a lot of men out here that have said a lot of things and because they are men that doesn’t happen.’’

Soon thereafter, the match was over.

It was the second Grand Slam final defeat in a row for Williams, after Wimbledon in July, as she seeks an initial major title since returning to the tour after having a baby in 2017. She missed the U.S. Open last year, because her daughter, Olympia, was born during the tournament. 

RAPE ALLEGATION from 5 to death for the crime were scapegoats. Skeptics also point to several other unexplained tourist deaths on the island, suggesting that well-connected local residents have covered up deadly attacks.

The Computer Crime Act has been used to prosecute people for Facebook postings about the country’s monarchy or political issues but rarely for purely criminal cases.

“These men just simply clicked share on a Facebook post. They have no intention of spreading false rumors or damaging the country. I can only assume that the police made such a quick arrest to stop people from sharing news on this case, which they see as bad for the tourism industry,’’ said lawyer Winyat.

Thai police said two more arrest warrants have been issued for suspects living aboard. One is a British editor who reported the news on her website, Samui Times, and the other is a Thai self-styled online sleuth who has written Facebook posts about the allegation. 

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12

SEPTEMBER 15 – SEPTEMBER 21, 2018

36 YEARS

■ ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Crazy Rich Asians star added to movie poster

By Staff NORTHWEST ASIAN WEEKLY

Henry Golding is cementing his status as a Hollywood leading man. His image has been added to brand-new posters for “A Simple Favor” — a Paul Feig neo-noir comedy that opened in theaters on Sept. 14.

In the new poster, Golding has been upgraded to first-name-only basis alongside Anna (Kendrick) and Blake (Lively) in a retro-cool poster that simultaneously evokes Hitchcock and Bond.

The Hollywood Reporter reported that Lionsgate flew the Crazy Rich Asians star from Singapore to Los Angeles on Aug. 31 for a last-minute shoot at the home of Lionsgate chief brand officer Tim Palen, an award-winning fine art photographer who has a studio behind his house. Golding was off to London the following morning for Crazy Rich Asians’ U.K. premiere.

The newbie Malaysian-British actor

had no contractual billing on the movie— unsurprising given that when he was cast last summer, he had exactly zero acting credits on his resumé. But that changed with the Aug. 15 debut of Jon M. Chu's groundbreaking film, which hit No. 1 in its first three weeks, and with a domestic total of $135.8 million (and counting) is the most successful romantic comedy in nine years.

Lionsgate was closely monitoring Crazy Rich Asians, and said the timing of its Golding-related marketing rollout couldn’t have landed more perfectly.

In addition to “A Simple Favor,” Golding has indie drama “Monsoon” in the can.

In his third feature, from Lilting writerdirector Hong Khaou, he plays a British Vietnamese man who left Saigon as a young refugee and returns to his home country to scatter his parents’ ashes.  Staff can be reached at info@nwasianweekly.com.

India decriminalizes homosexual acts in landmark verdict

By ASHOK SHARMA ASSOCIATED PRESS

NEW DELHI (AP) — India’s supreme court struck down a colonial-era law on Sept. 6 that made gay sex punishable by up to 10 years in prison, a landmark victory for gay rights that one judge said would “pave the way for a better future.’’

The 1861 law, a relic of Victorian England that hung on long after the end of British colonialism, was a weapon used to discriminate against India’s gay community, the judges ruled in a unanimous decision.

“Constitutional morality cannot be martyred at the altar of social morality,’’ Chief Justice Dipak Misra said, reading out the verdict. “Social morality cannot be used to violate the fundamental rights of even a single individual.’’

As the news spread, the streets outside the courthouse erupted in cheers as opponents of the law danced and waved flags.

“We feel as equal citizens now,’’ said activist Shashi Bhushan. “What happens in our bedroom is left to us.’’

In its ruling, the court said sexual orientation was a “biological phenomenon’’ and that any discrimination on that basis violated fundamental rights.

ICHS from 3 the population that we serve even better access, care coordination and in addition to the population we are currently taking care of, we as an organization, are responding to the current homelessness crisis in Seattle,” Getaneh said.

ICHS has partner organizations, such as ACRS and other community-based organizations that it collaborates with, in addressing the concerns of the homeless population. Getaneh said, “When we deliver care, we also measure our core determinants of health and we partner with organizations to also provide individuals with other services. We don’t just treat diabetes in a vacuum — we deliver care in the context of the individual’s social economic situation and find organizations that could potentially meet the needs that they have.”

ICHS serves over 30,000 multilingual patients across four clinical sites. Getaneh said that ICHS has embarked on moving towards population health management.

“We cannot change history but can pave a way for a better future,’’ said Justice D.Y. Chandrachud.

The law known as Section 377 held that intercourse between members of the same sex was against the order of nature. The five petitioners who challenged the law said it was discriminatory and led to gays living in fear of harassment and persecution.

Arvind Datar, the attorney for the petitioners, argued in the court that the provision was unconstitutional because it provides for the prosecution and sentencing of consenting adults.

Homosexuality has a tangled history in India, with some of Hinduism’s most ancient texts accepting of gay sex. Transgendered people known as “hijras’’ have been a common sight in India for centuries. They are shunned by the wider community and often forced to work as beggars and prostitutes, but are also sometimes embraced because they are believed to bring powerful blessings.

A leader of a prominent hard-line Hindu group noted that while it doesn’t see homosexuality as a crime, it believes gay marriage is not “compatible with nature.’’

Arun Kumar, a spokesman for the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, the parent organization of the ruling Bharatiya Janata

“Instead of being reactive, we will proactively look at the patient population and determine whether or not they are due for a particular type of healthcare. Depending on medical conditions, social context and so on, that’s where we will be moving forward, this ensures that no one falls through the crack, ensures individuals will receive their preventative care, as well as treatment of their chronic medical conditions,” she said.

Since its 1973 opening, ICHS has grown to employ more than 500 people and serve nearly 31,000 patients at nine clinic locations in 2017. Health services include primary medical, vision, and dental care, as well as behavioral health and pharmacy services.

As for the future, Getaneh said that ICHS has received requests to expand services in other neighborhoods in the Seattle metro area, and the board and executive team are currently considering those requests.  Nina Huang can be reached at info@nwasianweekly.com.

Party, said Indian society “traditionally does not recognize’’ gay relationships, the Press Trust of India news agency reported.

A New Delhi High Court in 2009 declared Section 377 unconstitutional, but that decision was overturned in a ruling by three Supreme Court justices in 2013 on the grounds that amending or repealing the law should be left to Parliament. But lawmakers failed to take action and in July the government told the Supreme Court to give a ruling in the case.

Over the past decade, gays have gained a degree of acceptance in parts of deeply conservative India, especially in big cities. Some high-profile Bollywood films have dealt with gay issues. Still, being gay is seen as shameful in much of the country.

Sukhdeep Singh, a gay rights activist and editor of Gaylaxy Magazine, said the community still had a lot of distance to go “to be legally with your partner.’’

“This will obviously open the doors for a lot of more things, more civil rights. And we’ll fight for our rights, definitely. This is the first battle that has been won and there are many more battles that we are going to fight and we’ll win that as well. For sure,’’ he said. 

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asianweekly northwest

SEPTEMBER 15 – SEPTEMBER 21, 2018

13

Predictions and advice for the week of September 15–21, 2018

By Sun Lee Chang

Rat — A good chapter is about to unfold. History is behind you, and you have the ability to write what will happen next.

Ox — For what you have long endured, a sweet reward is coming. That said, it may not be in the form that you expect.

Tiger — You recognize that there is a time and place for all things. As you let go of one era, another one is there to take its place.

Rabbit — It could take a while for you to see what is really there, but once you do, there is no turning back, nor would you want to at that point.

Dragon — As you begin to understand what must be done, your resolve strengthens. A challenge is no match for your commitment to completing the job.

Snake — A mixed bag awaits your inspection.

There is no need to settle for the first thing you pull out if it is not pleasing to you.

Horse — While your journey started for one purpose, it will quickly evolve into a quest for something else entirely.

Goat — Once set in motion, certain things can be difficult to stop. However, you may still be able to steer it in the direction you prefer.

Monkey — Are you trying to win over someone who is not already in your corner? Your persistence will be hard to resist.

Rooster — Your sense of curiosity could lead you into a grand adventure, one that is both instructive and fun at the same time.

Dog — There are at least two ways that you can go and even more if you look around. Choose the path that you have not traveled before.

Pig — You have discovered that there is much to be learned from just simple observation. Others will seek you out for your insights.

What’s your animal sign?

Rat 1912, 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008 Ox 1913, 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009 Tiger 1914, 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010 Rabbit 1915, 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011 Dragon 1916, 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012 Snake 1917, 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013 Horse 1918, 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014 Goat 1919, 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015 Monkey 1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016 Rooster 1921, 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017 Dog 1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018 Pig 1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007

*The year ends on the first new moon of the following year. For those born in January and February, please take care when determining your sign.

A-POP from 7 Plus, “Aquaman” is directed by Malaysian-born Australian James Wan, who thus far has mostly been known for movies that scare the pants off you (the “Saw” films, the “Insidious” films, the “Conjuring” films) and “Furious 7.”

This team-up seems like it can be really amazing, right?

Other APIs in this movie include Ludi Lin (aka Black Power Ranger), Randall Park (OMG, be in all the movies), and Temuera Derek Morrison (“Moana,” of Maori descent).

Kevin McCallister’s references are weirdly outdated During an appearance on Joe Rogan’s podcast last month, former child actor Macaulay Culkin (“Home Alone”) talked about his girlfriend, actor Brenda Song, who is Hmong American. They are pretty coupled up, it seems, because Culkin told Rogan he can’t wait to impregnate her with Asian babies. This is literally what he said: “I’m going to have some pretty babies. She’s Asian, so I’m gonna have tiny little Asian babies. It’s going to be adorable — a bunch of Sean Lennons running around the house.

That’s what I’m looking for.”

Look, we all say weird things when we’re on a comedian’s podcast.There’s probably a lot of pressure to come off as funny, and white people often come off pretty racist when they are merely trying to be funny. So I get it. Life can be tricky and hard. I’m not even focused on that part of his comment.

It’s just, WTF, Sean Lennon isn’t that cute? Like, Sean Lennon is 42. He’s like, older than Culkin is. Lennon looks like his dad, which means that he looks pretty hairy and like

MA from 5 Alibaba is one of a group of companies including Tencent Holding Ltd., a games and social media giant, search engine Baidu.com Inc. and e-commerce rival JD.com that have revolutionized shopping, entertainment and consumer services in China.

Alibaba was founded at a time when few Chinese used the internet. As internet use spread, the company expanded into consumer-focused retailing and services.

Few Chinese used credit cards, so Alibaba created its own online payments system, Alipay.

Ma, known in Chinese as Ma Yun, has become one of China’s best-known public figures. He appears regularly on television. At an annual Alibaba employee festival in Hanzhou, he has sung pop songs in costumes that have included blonde wigs and leather jackets. He pokes fun at his own appearance, saying his oversize head and angular features make him look like the alien in director Steven Spielberg’s movie “E.T. The Extraterrestrial.’’

Ma also became one of the best-known Chinese businesspeople abroad.

The company’s $25 billion initial public offering on the New York Stock Exchange in September 2014 was the biggest to date by a Chinese company.

the type to get real tortured by the artistic process. Not tiny.

Or adorable.

‘Queen Sugar’ renewed “Queen Sugar” is a drama series delivered to us from God. No, I’m kidding. It’s actually Oprah. And Ava DuVernay. The series airs on Oprah’s OWN network and is based on a novel

by Natalie Baszile. “Queen Sugar” is about siblings, who are Black, who inherit a sugar cane farm in Louisiana. The show is noted for featuring only female directors — most of whom are women of color — for every episode of the series.

In its most recent season, “Queen Sugar” introduced Vietnamese American characters from a refugee family, played by Vivian Ngo, Tony Aidan Vo, and Elyse Dinh McCrillis. Ngo plays a love interest of one of the lead characters, Ralph (Kofi Siriboe).

Speaking about her role on the series, Ngo told PRI.org, “When I’ve seen Vietnamese characters in Hollywood, it seems like they’re always defined and centralized around the Vietnam War. They’re always a victim of something, and what’s really refreshing about this storyline is that it’s a normal family living their lives.”

Last month, it was announced that “Queen Sugar” was renewed for a fourth season.

The Rock will be a king Freaking Dwayne Johnson, one of my favoritest movie stars of all time, is slated to play King Kamehameha I, the first king to unite warring Hawaiian islands into the Kingdom of Hawaii in 1795.

On his Instagram, Johnson wrote, “From the day I began

Zhang, Ma’s planned successor, is a former accountant who joined Alibaba in 2007 after working at Shanda Entertainment, an online games company. Zhang served as president of Alibaba’s consumer-focused Tmall.com business unit.

Alibaba’s e-commerce business spans multiple platforms including business-to-business Alibaba.com, which links foreign buyers with Chinese suppliers of goods from furniture to medical technology, and Tmall, with online shops for popular brands.

Alipay became a freestanding financial company, Ant Financial, in 2014. Alibaba also has expanded into entertainment, set up its own film studio and invested in logistics and delivery services.

Alibaba reported profit last year of $9.8 billion.

The total value of goods sold on all of its platforms rose 28 percent over 2016 to $768 billion, according to the company.

Ma has faced controversy, including when it was disclosed in 2011 that Alibaba had transferred control over Alipay to a company controlled by Ma without immediately informing shareholders including Yahoo Inc. and Japan’s Softback.

Alibaba said the move was required to comply with Chinese regulations, but some financial analysts said the

my Hollywood career (2001), my dream was to bring this legacy to life. In Polynesian culture we have a belief, that something isn’t done when it’s ready … it’s done when it’s right. The time is right. The one who walks alone.”

I love him. He can do no wrong. I’m already flinching from the criticism he will surely get over historical accuracy, ethnically accurate casting, and the rest of it. I don’t want it to hurt his feelings or discourage him. I just want to shield and protect him from all of it.

Anyway, so Johnson is not just the lead in the film, he’s also a producer. (FYI, while he’s not native Hawaiian, he has lived in Hawaii. He is Samoan in heritage.) The Rock previously nodded to his Polynesian roots with a lead role in Disney’s “Moana.”

Just in case the American school system failed you, like it did me, let me save you a Googling session. I also wondered how Hawaii could have a king if it is currently a state. Then I was like, oh, duh! Colonization and imperialism!

In the late 19th century, white Americans overthrew the Hawaiian monarchy, which eventually resulted in the annexation of Hawaii as the 50th state in the United States.

Prior to annexation, Hawaii and the United States were close trading partners and the islands’ sugar production played an important role in the growth of the U.S. economy. The United States was afraid of losing its grip on Hawaii to other Western nations, so it acted like a real jealous boyfriend and forced Hawaii into marriage in order to secure Hawaii’s natural resources for itself, forever and ever.

I don’t think any of this stuff will be in the Rock’s movie, except for maybe as a bummer of an epilogue note.  Stacy Nguyen can be reached at stacy@nwasianweekly.com.

company was paid too little for a valuable asset. The dispute was later resolved by Alibaba, Yahoo and Softbank.

Corporate governance specialists also questioned the unusual structure of the Alibaba Partnership, which gives Ma and a group of executives more control over the company than shareholders.

Ma defended the arrangement as necessary to ensure Alibaba focuses on long-term development instead of responding to pressure from financial markets. 

asianweekly northwest

14

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SEPTEMBER 15 – SEPTEMBER 21, 2018

NOTICE KING COUNTY, WASHINGTON NOTICE TO BIDDERS Sealed bids will be received by the King County Procurement Services Section, 3rd Floor, 401 Fifth Avenue, Seattle, WA 98104, until 2:00 PM of bid opening date for the following listed bids.

To download a document, go to our web page at: http://www. kingcounty.gov/procurement.

King County encourages minority business enterprise participation.

King County does not discriminate on the basis of disability in its programs, services, and employment opportunities.

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REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL King County Housing Authority is accepting proposals from qualified firms to provide specified apparel for maintenance and corporate staff. Women and Minority owned companies are encouraged to submit proposals.

Proposals are due at 2:00pm, Friday, September 28, 2018. Bid packets are available visa US Mail or by picking up at our Central Ofifice between 8:00 AM-4:00 PM, Mon-Fri beginning September 10, 2018. Please contact Dawn Werner before picking up a packet to ensure availability @ 206-5741223 or dawnw@kcha.org.

METROPOLITAN KING COUNTY COUNCIL DIRECTOR OF LEGISLATIVE ANALYSIS Closes: September 28, 2018 at 11:59 p.m.

Salary Range: $153,814.75 - $194,969.01 (DOQ)

CONTACT JOHN TO PLACE AN AD ON CLASSIFIED PAGE 206-223-5559 JOHN@NWASIANWEEKLY.COM

BEIJING DANCE from 3 Huaxing Arts Troupe on Oct. 4–6.

The Beijing Dance Academy is one of the most prestigious dance schools in the world. aND AAPAT is a Seattle-based nonprofit dedicated to a mission of “Bridging Cultures and Communities through the Performing Arts.”

CHEN from 9 and Sheryl Underwood.

“Whatever times I’ve had of hardship over the last eight years, Julie has always been there for me,” Osbourne said. “It’s very embarrassing and upsetting to have to talk about her husband, but we feel it’s right.”

All four also expressed vehement support for the women who came forward about Moonves.

“These women’s stories matter,” Gilbert said.

Osbourne said she had given a cautious statement of support for Moonves after the first round of allegations. But now she realizes

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Hengda Li, artistic director of AAPAT, said programs selected for the “China in Dance – 2018” shows are the most classic and representative of Chinese classical dance repertoires. 

SOLUTION from SUDOKU on page 6.

For more information and to buy tickets, go to hengdadance.com.

“obviously, the man has a problem,” saying Moonves had broken the life of at least one of his accusers.

A total of 12 women have alleged mistreatment from Moonves in a pair of stories in The New Yorker, including forced oral sex, groping and retaliation if they resisted him. Moonves denied the charges, although he said he had consensual relations with three of the women.

They all came when Moonves was married to his first wife, Nancy Wiesenfeld, whom he divorced in 2004, the same year he married Chen.

An email to Chen’s manager Ken Slotnick about her status was not immediately returned. 

SERVICE DIRECTORY CONTACT JOHN TO PLACE AN AD ON CLASSIFIED PAGE 206-223-5559 JOHN@NWASIANWEEKLY.COM

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asianweekly northwest

YOUR VOICE

15

Photos by Zachariah Bryan

SEPTEMBER 15 – SEPTEMBER 21, 2018

CEO Bridgette Takeuchi explains the financial challenges that Keiro Northwest is currently facing.

KEIRO from 1 pictures of his wife and family. A small stereo sits across from him — he likes to listen to Johnny Cash and Kris Kristofferson mostly, but sometimes Japanese music, too.

Before he came here, he was a flight engineer and then an involved member of the Nisei Veterans’ Committee. He also played ukulele. Among the CDs in his collection is a compilation of ukulele players and under track six, you can find his name, playing the song “Crazy G.” The Tsuboi family has roots at Keiro Northwest. Tsuboi Chan’s aunt stayed here.

Her grandma stayed here. Even a neighbor of hers stayed here. She said it’s a unique place.

It feels like home. The facility hosts cultural events and residents can eat rice here.

But Keiro Northwest is at a turning point.

First founded as Nikkei Concerns in the 1970s for elderly Japanese Americans, the 150-bed facility is looking at a future with new leadership, a more diverse demographic, and substantial budget and recruiting challenges.

Tsuboi Chan said she’s concerned about changes in the facility, since the previous CEO, Jeffrey Hattori, stepped down at the beginning of this year and Bridgette Takeuchi took the reins.

Over the past year, Tsuboi Chan said the environment, culture, and “kimochi feeling” have changed. The leadership has been less transparent and more “my way or the highway,” she said, and patient safety has suffered due to staffing issues.

Tsuboi Chan isn’t alone in her thinking.

In August, she crafted a letter with about five other stakeholders, listing point by point their concerns. Based on conversations she’s had with others, the letter represents the feelings of over 30 people, she said.

One concern was Keiro’s registration with the Washington Secretary of State from “nonprofit” to “WA Public Benefit Corporation.”

“WA Public Benefit Corporation” is the technical name for nonprofits and not for profits.

On one level, CEO Takeuchi said in a phone conversation that these feelings can be attributed to transitional pains.

“One of the things that has been a challenge is we had a very loving person who was my successor here,” she said. “When there’s a change, sometimes folks, they’re fighting with their hearts. … It just feels different and it looks different.”

At a public meeting held by Keiro Northwest on Sept. 4, 27 community members, board members, and staff members sat down to talk about the challenges of the organization.

During the meeting, family members of residents said they were seeing less attention to patient care. They cited instances where residents were neglected, not getting scheduled showers, and would fall without a staff person around to help.

Tsuboi Chan said her father was dehydrated and was hooked up to an IV bag, but the staffer failed to tighten it. He was soaked in 1,000 milliliters of IV fluid and his own blood when a nurse caught it an hour and a half later.

On another occasion, she and others saw a

Chinese man sitting in a wheelchair holding up an arbitrary number of fingers, shouting, “13 days! 13 days! No shower!”

Standing up, Virginia Hiramatsu talked about how her husband was left in his wheelchair during mealtime with an uncomfortable sore on his bottom, even though he asked staff to put him back in bed.

It wasn’t until after mealtime was finished that he was put back into bed.

When Hiramatsu brought up the issue with the administrator, who has since left his position, she was told that she could take her husband to another facility. Confused, she asked again, she said, and he repeated the statement.

“It makes me mad. It makes me furious,” she said, fighting through tears. “I can’t be quiet any longer. I sit here and I can’t.”

Takeuchi said she couldn’t address specific cases due to privacy concerns. According to company data, the facility has historically seen an average of 20-23 falls per month.

At the moment, 23 falls are taking place per month.

Tsuboi Chan wasn’t convinced.

“I challenge you to go up there during mealtime,” she said. “You will see the challenges.”

Staffing ratios have also remained largely the same, she said. Keiro Northwest previously staffed one nursing assistant for every seven-to-nine residents and currently are staffing one per eight-to-nine residents — higher than state requirements.

However, those ratios have been sustained by paying nurses overtime, totaling $800,000 last year. Takeuchi said paying overtime isn’t sustainable and is looking to hire a nursing manager, four registered nurses, one certified nursing assistant, and a few part-time roles. Because recruiting is challenging in this field, Keiro Northwest has given nurses a raise to stay competitive and is offering a $10,000 bonus to hire on new registered nurses.

Furthermore, Takeuchi said she is looking to take immediate action to permanently fill the certified administrator role, which is currently filled by interim administrator Denney Austin.

Throughout the meeting, Takeuchi was honest about the organization’s financial challenges.

Keiro Northwest lost $2.5 million last year. This is part of an ongoing trend. For years, the gap between rising costs and falling revenue has widened. Keiro lost $1.1 million in 2015 and $1.8 million in 2016.

There are a number of reasons for this trend, wrote Brandon Nelson, director of strategic operations, in an email. 2015 was the first year the Seattle minimum wage increase took effect, it was the first year the facility was required to have a registered nurse on staff 24-hours per day, seven days a week, and it was the year that Keiro Northwest launched its home care initiative, increasing expenses in its beginning months.

Add on top of that the strains of Medicaid, which pays $230 per day for a resident who lives on-site, well short of the $390 it costs to take care of that patient. The number of Medicaid patients has gradually increased throughout recent years, from 67 percent in 2015, to 75 percent at the end of July.

Virginia Hiramatsu details an incident involving her husband, whose wishes to be put back in bed were neglected.

The goal is to raise $2 million in three to four months, Takeuchi said, coming from the community, corporations, and the government.

The idea is to stabilize operations temporarily, so the leadership can implement ways to save money in the future.

“Really what we’re doing is buying time,” she said. “Don’t think it’s a one-time shot and that we’re going to ask for more money in a couple of years.”

Another goal of the campaign is to expand the donor base, beyond the traditional base of Japanese Americans, to reflect the current demographics, she said.

At the meeting, board chair Frank Fukui pondered what the changing demographics mean for what Keiro Northwest calls community. Activities have been largely dedicated to the Japanese American culture, but currently, 32 percent of residents are Chinese, 30 percent Japanese, 12 percent Vietnamese, and 12 percent other API. “[We need to think about] the makeup of what we call community,” Fukui said.

How Keiro defines itself is important if it’s going to remain competitive with other facilities. Earlier this year, Aegis Living opened up a facility for elderly Chinese Americans on the Eastside of King County.

Takeuchi stressed that they wanted to avoid

the fate of Keiro Senior HealthCare in Los Angeles, which sold off facilities to a for-profit real estate community in 2015. The CEO of the LA outfit said demographic changes and increasing diversity were largely to blame for the losses, according to Nichi Bei, a Japanese American newspaper based in California.

In a way, Takeuchi represents the future of the organization. She’s 38 and a fourthgeneration half Japanese, half Caucasian American. She said people have judged her for being half white. One person even called her stupid because of her mixed race, she said. But she shrugged it off. Change can be uncomfortable for people, she said.

Though Tsuboi Chan’s letter has stirred up a miniature political storm, and even though she feels there’s a communication gap between leadership and the community, she said she wants to see Keiro Northwest succeed, and she wants her dad to live out his last years here.

“I think they care. I have to think they care,” she said.

But for some reason, she said, Keiro’s new leadership team and some members of its community are just not seeing eye to eye.

“Somehow, there’s a gap,” she said.  Zachariah can be reached at info@nwasianweekly.com.

asianweekly northwest

16

36 YEARS

SEPTEMBER 15 – SEPTEMBER 21, 2018

Ranged throughout the rest of the hall were representatives from both civilian and military organizations interested in supporting Japan-U.S. relations, and the young service members participating in a joint U.S.-Japan military exercise called Rising Thunder.

“Beyond Reconciliation: Celebrate Japan-U.S. Alliance and Honor Nisei Veterans” is an event that has been held by the Nisei Veterans’ Committee (NVC) in Seattle for several years. In the past couple of years, NVC has partnered with other organizations, such as Japan-America Society and the Japan U.S. Military Program, to bring together this group of individuals in a spirit of partnership in both wartime and peacetime. The Sept. 9 event at the NVC Memorial Hall, allowed Japanese and U.S. soldiers to mingle in a social environment, and to get to know the community — and their shared history. There were moving speeches from key figures, as well as complimentary lunch and entertainment from OKK Taiko (dancing a must).

Current NVC Commander Walter Tanimoto explained the purpose of the event.

“It provides a cultural aspect to the Rising Thunder exercise…While they’re in Yakima, they’re working on their war fighting skills. The portion that we can provide is the Japanese American experience.” One of the biggest parts of the Japanese American experience is that of internment during World War II and the heroism of the Japanese American men who nevertheless chose to fight for the United States during the war. Many of those gathered at the Hall admitted they didn’t know very much about either, which validated the importance of these gatherings.

Japan’s Consul General to Seattle, Yoichiro Yamada, asked the audience if they had heard of the Japanese Americans who fought for the United States during WWII. “I am asking,” Yamada said, “because I had not known

BLOG from 10 when the restaurant was full, and no other wait staff could help me. It became a burden to my colleagues and myself. After three weeks, I was let go. By then, I possessed all the skills of being a waitress, including carrying a big tray with eight dinner-sized plates. Pushing carts had not been invented then.

Within a week, I found another waitressing job. The bosses were Chinese and Caucasian. They let me serve cocktails, even though it was illegal. It was fun to learn all the cocktail names. But the sweetest moment was, after I served food, I gestured to my diners about their drinks.

“Another round (of drinks)?” I would ask.

If they said yes, it meant a bigger tip. It also earned my boss’ praise.

One time, a customer said, “You don’t look like you are 21.” I laughed it off.

“You are so nice, thank you,” I responded.

The fact was, I was nervous about being exposed for being underaged. It’s ironic that I was the one who checked IDs if I suspected that they were minors.

The restaurant owners took a chance on me. If they had gotten caught, they would have been in serious trouble. I guess they liked me so much that they were willing to take the risk. It takes a village to raise a college graduate. Everyone on my journey supported me, so I could move to the next step and get ready for bigger challenges in life.

2. Taking Chinese classes at UW

Many Chinese immigrants took Chinese language classes in the 200 level, even though they were native speakers. The instructors, as well as fellow students, including American-born Chinese, resented and scorned those immigrant students.

To boost GPAs, many students take easy classes, which can guarantee them an A. This is true now and then.

I took two Chinese classes (classical Chinese literature of 400 level) for other reasons. The reading was hard. In fact, the Chinese professors graded us Chinese harder than non-Chinese students.

I enrolled in that class to meet other

Photos courtesy of Jessica Kai Curry

NISEI VETERANS from 8

Beyond Reconciliation NVC Commander Tanimoto presents a gift from the NVC to the leaders of the U.S. and Japan Rising Thunder joint forces.

Beyond Reconciliation OKK Taiko performs at the NVC Reconciliation event on Sept. 9.

about them before I came to Seattle.” Yamada went on to describe the actions of the 100th, such as rescuing a group of Texan soldiers from behind enemy lines.

Yamada also mentioned the difficulties Japanese Americans encountered when they returned from the camps, and from the war.

“The road they walked was a hard one, but they walked it with dignity, diligence, and perseverance,” Yamada said.

“Today, Japan enjoys an excellent relationship with the United States, despite that bitter war…What I learned in Seattle is that the trust Japan enjoys among the Americans today is thanks to the great attitude of the Japanese Americans before, during, and after the war.”

Underlying the entire occasion was the current political, cultural, and societal backdrop. More than once, tensions in the Pacific theater were mentioned, and the increased value of the Japan-U.S. alliance was due to the threatening posture

of countries such as North Korea.

Retired Rear Adm. James Kelly, president of the John Manjiro-Whitfield Commemorative Center for International Exchange here in Washington, stated, “I think this is the most important alliance we’ve got. I think it’s particularly important if you look at potential problems, issues, and threats. Our teams that are assigned overseas…they’ve gotta be in sync with our Japanese counterparts.”

After the event, servicemen lined up to shake the hands of the Nisei veterans and say thank you. National JapanAmerica Society President Peter Kelley said, “Immigration laws today are under fire. We still have to keep track and be aware of what happened back then, and see if we can’t be better…today. Don’t you think?” The audience responded, “Hear! Hear!” 

Chinese students from Taiwan and Hong Kong, who were graduate students and intellectuals. It was exhilarating since I was the lone undergraduate, being challenged and respected when I surprised them with good answers.

I was also terribly homesick, I yearned to be connected with my cultural identity through Chinese poems and stories. I didn’t always appreciate my native language when I first arrived in this country. This is especially true among American-born Chinese. If they speak Chinese in school, non-Chinese peers would make fun of them. The class made me feel that speaking and writing Chinese was and is an asset on foreign soil. It’s strange that I didn’t really think much about my roots when I lived in Hong Kong. But once you are a stranger in a strange land, you look back on your own heritage and culture through a different lens.

You see yourself and your native land with a new depth of understanding and richness.

It’s an intimate way of connecting you with the past, present, and future.

I also realized that I was living in the best of two worlds—the East and West. It ignited my spirit to embrace American values and build bridges between Asia and America in my future careers.

1. Killing rejections

I’ve had my share of rejection in my college days — so many that I lost track.

I became oblivious to rejection — I wish I still had that attribute every day.

It happened when I wanted to transfer to the UW during my freshman year. The admission policy said that the UW accepted only juniors. I read that. But it didn’t mean much to me and I applied any way. The rejection letter arrived in May, telling me to wait for one more year. I was distraught. I read it again and again. Maybe, three more times. In small print at the end of the letter, it said, “You can petition” and submit your latest grades. Ha! It didn’t actually say no, I said to myself.

I responded with a letter, stating the many valid reasons why I should be admitted. I also got three As and one B in my last semester from a small liberal arts college in Oregon.

At the end of June, the UW admissions

Jessica Kai can be reached at info@nwasianweekly.com.

office sent a letter of acceptance.

What does that say about rejection? A no is not always final. I had to prove to the naysayers that it would be their loss not to change their mind. You have to show initiative. Also, it was all paperwork. I didn’t make a single phone call. If I had to,

I would have.

What I did in college for survival is pretty much what you can all do in your life. Never give up and never give in…  Assunta can be reached at assunta@nwasianweekly.com.