VOL 40 NO 7 | FEBRUARY 13 – FEBRUARY 19, 2021

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VOL 40 NO 7 FEBRUARY 13 – FEBRUARY 19, 2021

FREE 39 YEARS YOUR VOICE

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39 YEARS

FEBRUARY 13 – FEBRUARY 19, 2021

■ LUNAR NEW YEAR

Ox stamps

Postal administrations across the world have started issuing Lunar New Year stamps for 2021. In addition to the United States, Aland, Armenia, Canada, China, Christmas Island, Great Britain, Guernsey, Isle of Man, Japan, Jersey, Kyrgyzstan, Liechtenstein, New Zealand, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam all have Ox stamps.  Vote for your favorite stamp at https://bit.ly/3a7I9T6

by March 7

UNITED STATES 

HONG KONG 

canada 

AUSTRALIA 

KOREA 

PHILLIPPINES 

CHINA 

THAILAND 

NEW ZEALAND 

jersey 

GREAT BRITAIN  GUERNSEY 

JAPAN 

vietnam 

ISLE OF MAN  SINGAPORE 

taiwan 

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While Supplies Last. Limit One Per Customer, Per Day. Not Valid on Curbside or Instacart Orders

YOUR VOICE

■ NAMES IN THE NEWS Best director nominee Chloe Zhao

Chloe Zhao has become the first woman of Asian descent nominated for best director for the 78th Golden Globe Awards. She directed the itinerant drama “Nomadland.”

The Globes, delayed about two months due to the coronavirus, announced the nominations on Feb. 3 in a largely virtual awards season.

Last year, there were Chloe Zhao no female nominees for best director. This year, the Hollywood Foreign Press Association nominated more female filmmakers than it ever has before. Along with Zhao, Emerald Fennell (Promising Young Woman) and Regina King (One Night in Miami) were also nominated. 

Day of Remembrance observance

The Washington State Legislature is holding a virtual observance of the Day of Remembrance beginning on Feb. 15 at 8:30 a.m.

This annual ceremony marking the anniversary of the signing of Executive Order 9066, which led to the incarceration of more than 120,000 people of Japanese ancestry, will commence in the House of Representatives on Monday.

The Senate will conclude the observance on the nationally and state recognized Day of Remembrance, Feb. 19 at 12:30 p.m.

Both events will be televised on the TVW channel and live streamed on the TVW website at the time of the event. 

FEBRUARY 13 – FEBRUARY 19, 2021

South Seattle College’s Yilin Sun gets State Dept. award

asianweekly northwest

program and on the Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) field since 1991.

Sun was president of the TESOL International Association from 2013 to 2016—the first time in TESOL’s 50-year history that an Asian, female, and bilingual Chinese and English speaking professional served in that role. 

Deadline for gold medal replicas for Chinese war vets

Dr. Yilin Sun

Dr. Yilin Sun, who has spent the majority of her 30-plus year career teaching English as a Second Language at South Seattle College and Seattle Central College, has been recognized as a top-30 contributor to the U.S. Department of State’s English Language Specialist Program.

The specialist program is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2021.

The “30@30 Award” recognizes Sun as one of 30 specialists who have made a lasting impact on the specialist

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Chinese American WWII Veterans Recognition Project is accepting applications until Feb. 28 for Congressional Gold Medal replicas to give to veterans or next of kin at no-cost.

Applications received after Feb. 28 may still be reviewed for the purpose of having a veteran’s name listed on the website, but the veteran and/or family must make their own arrangements to purchase their Chinese American WWII (CAWW2) Congressional Gold Medal directly from the U.S. Mint.

For more information, contact Cathy Lee at info@cacaseattle.org. 

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39 YEARS

FEBRUARY 13 – FEBRUARY 19, 2021

■ COMMUNITY NEWS

ICHS fights for vaccines as part of serving community

By Jason Cruz NORTHWEST ASIAN WEEKLY International Community Health Services (ICHS) learned of the possibility of COVID-19 prior to the worldwide outbreak, as many patients and employees are from Asia and learned from family and friends or through travel to Asia. Even with forewarning, the organization had to swiftly pivot in protecting themselves and their patients as the pandemic threatened many of the vulnerable communities it serves.

ICHS provides health care services in 11 locations throughout the region. It offers a variety of services, including medical, dental, mental health, nutrition services, and more to a diverse community of people. This includes a great deal of the Asian and elderly population relying on the services of ICHS. “We were already being careful,” stated President and CEO Teresita Batayola, based on the news from Wuhan, China. The clinics experienced a downturn in drop-in visits as well as no-shows, which was an indicator that patients were concerned about the virus.

In February 2020, ICHS was the nation’s first community health center with a positive COVID-19 diagnosis. ICHS identified high-risk patients and informed them not to come into clinics for appointments and risk getting exposed to the virus. Only those that were deemed necessary to see a physician in person could come into clinics.

“We had to change the way we were operating,” Batayola said. “At the beginning of the year, we had zero capabilities of telehealth.” ICHS converted most of the patients to telehealth appointments. Of course, the conversion came with obstacles as the digital divide for older patients and those with language barriers had a tough time with the transition. There was a concern of making sure that community members had the right device—whether it be a laptop, mobile device, or desktop—to have the visit. Then there is also the question of navigating websites.

ICHS set up drive-thru COVID-19 testing sites and targeted testing specific populations, such as the hard-hit Pacific Islander community. They have also been helping with in-home visits and prescription deliveries.

“We also had to put in a lot of protections in place for staff,” Batayola said. “There was frantic search for PPE.” She’s referring to Personal Protection Equipment, which was in short supply at the start of quarantine last spring.

Batayola noted that members of the community donated surgical masks as a way to help.

With necessary patients that visited the clinic, measures

Staff member preparing the COVID-19 vaccine for senior residents at Bush Asia.

were taken to ensure safety. There was temperature screening at the door, social distancing guidelines, and the clinics shortened their hours of operation. Yet, there were still unknowns as Batayola explained.

“There were questions regarding how long after disinfecting an exam room that another patient could safely enter.”

Due to the shortened hours and reduction of in-person visits, some employees were furloughed while a few were laid off. While these decisions may have hurt employee morale, keeping everyone safe was at a premium. As of this February, no employees of ICHS have been infected by the coronavirus at work. She notes that a couple of employees contracted COVID-19 outside of work and were quarantined.

“An important part of worker morale is keeping them safe,” explained Batayola of the health and safety protections ICHS has provided its staff. They are also kept up to date on new information provided by the federal and state health officials.

Of course, the pandemic is taking a toll.

“People are feeling the burnout.” She noted that many employees have children still doing online courses and are not physically in school with classmates, which is a

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great concern. “We talk openly,” she said of the physical and mental strain it is having on individuals. “There are no easy solutions.” However she notes, “They know the community needs them.”

A new part of the pandemic for ICHS is attempting to obtain the vaccine for community members. Resources are scarce and Batayola has been vigorously advocating for ICHS to receive a share of the allotment given to Washington state.

“We have an equity issue here,” said Batayola.

“Communities of color and seniors have been disproportionately affected by COVID-19.” She has spoken with King County Executive Dow Constantine, as well as Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan about this issue. With a shortage being the reality, Batayola has lobbied for the vaccine, imploring the city, state, and county to recognize the vulnerability of the population ICHS serves.  For more information, visit ICHS.com.

Jason can be reached at info@nwasianweekly.com.

FEBRUARY 13 – FEBRUARY 19, 2021

YOUR VOICE

■ SPORTS

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The Layup Drill

By Jason Cruz NORTHWEST ASIAN WEEKLY Welcome to another edition of The Layup Drill. This month, we take a look at Naomi Osaka’s latest venture, the return of a snowboarding star, and a name to know for next year’s Winter Olympics.

Osaka invests in women’s soccer team

Tennis star Naomi Osaka announced on Instagram that she is now a part owner of the North Carolina Courage of the National Women’s Soccer League. Osaka wrote that she invested in the soccer team as a way to pay it forward as many women invested in her growing up.

“I’m excited to continue the legacy of women empowerment.”

Last summer, Osaka donned face masks with the names of Blacks that were killed at the hands of the police for each appearance in the U.S. Open. She won the grand slam while speaking out on behalf of social justice for Blacks.

Her investment in the women’s soccer league team will help amplify the league and women’s sports.

Osaka was named by Forbes magazine as the world’s highest paid female athlete in 2020. Endorsement deals are a big part of her revenue and it was recently revealed that she is part of Levi’s new “Beauty of Becoming” ad campaign. The series features various celebrities talking about their “journey of becoming.” Osaka indicated in an interview about the new campaign, and she hopes that her story can inspire others. Osaka’s fashion deals include Nike, Louis Vuitton, and Tag Heuer. One day, she aspires to have her own brand. Perhaps a start, she will be consulting

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with her soccer team about designs for the upcoming year’s uniforms.

She currently sits atop the women’s tennis rankings as she plays in the first Grand Slam of 2021, the Australian Open, this February.

Snowboarder Chloe Kim returns to X Games

She’s back. After taking a year off from competitive snowboarding to focus on her freshman year at Princeton, Chloe Kim returned to the X Games to win her fifth snowboard halfpipe title in Aspen, Colorado during the last weekend of January.

It was 22 months in between competitions for Kim, who actually was in the emergency room for a few days before the competition due to an allergic reaction. In her first run back, she fell on her first big trick attempt of the competition. She remarked on social media later, “Low key popped some ribs out on the first slam.” Ouch. Even for a returning champion, Kim said she was surprised by her performance as she didn’t think she would make the podium. Despite the health issues, Kim returned to form and regained her title.

With the Winter Olympics a year away, look for Kim to reemerge for more competitions while juggling classes at Princeton.

SF-born free skier eyes Winter Olympics for China San Francisco native Eileen Gu is a name to know next winter as the Olympics head to Beijing, China. Gu, whose mother is Chinese, will compete for China in free skiing.

The 17-year-old is coming off a breakthrough performance at the X Games in the half-pipe for skiing.

Gu won two golds in Ski Superpipe and Ski Slopestyle and a bronze in Ski Big Air in her debut at the X Games.

It was the first time an individual has medalled in all three events. In competing in this trifecta, Gu beat out all three of the 2018 Olympic slopestyle medalists. She also was the first athlete representing China to win an X Games title.

She called her podium appearances at the X Games, “The best two days of my life.”

Gu speaks fluent Mandarin and makes annual trips to China with her mother. Another side job for the teenager is modeling, as she’s been in the pages of the Chinese Vogue, Harper’s, and Elle. She has more shoots coming up in the U.S. The decision to represent China instead of the United States may be seen as controversial, but Gu indicated that there were so many great women role models in the U.S. that she felt that she could make an impact on young women’s lives in China. With the free-skiing events being a part of the Winter Olympics, Gu will be one of the host nation’s biggest stars.

Not only is Gu a great free-skier and model, she is also an accomplished piano player and a competitive runner as she helped her high school place second in state championships.

She finished high school in three years and is enrolled in Stanford. Gu will go to college in 2022, taking this year to prepare for the Olympics.  Jason can be reached at info@nwasianweekly.com.

KING COUNTY, WASHINGTON NOTICE TO PROPOSERS Sealed bids will be received for KC000121, East Lake Sammamish Master Plan Trail – South Sammamish Segment B – Phase 1; by the King County Procurement and Payables Section, via the E-Procurement system until 1:30:59 PM on 03/09/2021. Late bids will not be accepted. The public bid opening will only be conducted on-line following the Bid Close Date and Time; see Invitation to Bid for details.

There is a 15% minimum Apprentice Utilization Requirement on this contract.

There is a 15% minimum requirement for King County Certified Small Contractors and Suppliers (SCS) on this contract.

This project provides for the improvement of former railroad bank between SE 33rd Street to Inglewood Hill Road in the City of Sammamish, King County. Schedule A Work includes the removal of the existing gravel trail and construction of approximately 1.75 miles of 12-footwide paved trail with gravel shoulders, clearing and grubbing, concrete driveway crossings, structural earth

wall, soldier pile wall, grading, culverts, stormwater conveyance, utility relocation, chain link fence, wood fence, gates, stairs, bollards, temporary traffic control, erosion control and mitigation plantings. Schedule B work has been deleted.

Estimated contract price: $13,345,256 MANDATORY Pre-Bid Conferences On-line:  03/16/2021, 9:00 AM. See the Invitation to Bid in the Contracted Documents.  03/16/2021, 3:30 PM. See the Invitation to Bid in the Contracted Documents. Prospective bidders can view more details at: https://kingcounty.gov/procurement/ solicitations Complete Invitation to Bid Documents, including all project details, specifications, and contact information are available on our web page at: https://kingcounty.gov/ procurement/supplierporta

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■ COMMUNITY CALENDAR FEB

11-20 NORTHWEST ASIAN WEEKLY’S LNY COSTUME PHOTO CONTEST 2021 Deadline is February 20 Email photo to us at info@nwasianweekly.com Winner’s highlighted photo will be published in newspaper on February 28.

8-13 ASIA PACIFIC CULTURAL CENTER PRESENTS 23RD ANNUAL NEW YEAR CELEBRATION 11 a.m.

Free door prizes

Register at http://bit.ly/3a7ytI6

13 54TH ANNUAL LUNAR NEW YEAR GALA 5 p.m.

Via YouTube at http://bit.ly/3q2OdSd 2021 LNY FESTIVITIES 1-3 p.m.

FRIENDS OF LITTLE SAI GON LUCKY LI XI Seattle’s C-ID 7 a.m.-4 p.m.

19 THE NORTHWEST NIKKEI MUSEUM SPEAKER SERIES “OMOIDE” 7 p.m. via Zoom Register at

Photo by Assunta Ng

■ COMMUNITY NEWS

Bush Garden’s storefront

39 YEARS

FEBRUARY 13 – FEBRUARY 19, 2021

http://bit.ly/3aLqsHZ/

8-22 LUNAR NEW YEAR’S PHOTO BOOTH Hello Em Cafe 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

20 LUNAR NEW YEAR FOOD WALK Seattle’s C-ID 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

CIDBIA LUCKY HONG BAO Seattle’s C-ID 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

PHOTO BOOTH Hing Hay Park 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

KING COUNTY, WASHINGTON NOTICE TO PROPOSERS Sealed bids will be received for KC000063, Eastlake Layover Facility; by the King County Procurement and Payables Section, via the E-Procurement system , until 1:30pm on March 4, 2021. Late bids will not be accepted. The public bid opening will only be conducted on-line following the Bid Close Date and Time; see Invitation to Bid Section 00 10 00 for details.

There is a 25% minimum Apprentice Utilization Requirement on this contract.

There is a 20% minimum requirement for King County Certified Small Contractors and Suppliers (SCS) on this contract.

This AGREEMENT is subject to the appropriations of the State of Washington.

The Work under this Contract consists of construction of off-street and on-street bus layover facilities and building construction of a Metro Transit comfort station. The Work also includes modifications of roadways, traffic signals and channelization to facilitate bus movements.

Estimated Contract Price: $10,630,000 Pre-Bid Conference: February 16, 2021 / 10:00 AM Prospective bidders can view more details at: https:// kingcounty.gov/procurement/solicitations Complete Invitation to Bid Documents, including all project details, specifications, and contact information are available on our web page at: https://kingcounty.gov/procurement/ supplierportal

Bush Garden vacated The first restaurant in the country to have a karaoke bar—Bush Garden—is no more, at least for now.

Owner Karen Sakata chose not to renew the lease after months of not being able to open, due to Covid-19 restrictions. On Jan. 31, she vacated the space and turned in the keys to the landlord.

When asked for an interview, Sakata told the Northwest Asian Weekly that she would be issuing her own statement “soon.”

The building that housed Bush Garden is set to be demolished. Sakata has an agreement with Interim CDA to lease commercial space in InterIm’s future affordable housing building, Uncle Bob’s Place, at South King Street and 8th Avenue South.

The building’s namesake—Bob Santos— was a community leader who frequented karaoke nights at Bush Garden. It is set to open in 2023. 

View the solution on page 14

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YOUR VOICE

■ ASTROLOGY

FEBRUARY 13 – FEBRUARY 19, 2021

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Astrological predictions for 2021 RAT

By Sun Lee Chang NORTHWEST ASIAN WEEKLY

Best Wishes for a Happy Year of the Ox From the

change could translate into higher profits.

Love: Don’t put yourself in the position of having to make up ground. Be attentive to preventable missteps.

OX Rather than dwelling on what is immutable, channel your energy into finding workable solutions.

Work: An unexpected opportunity could be opening up for you soon. If you

accept it, establish a clear timetable for completion.

Love: It is easy to fall into a predictable pattern. Mix it up once in a while to the delight of your partner.

TIGER Major milestones are between, so celebrate the along the way.

Work: You have high future, but that should not

few and far little victories hopes for the be a substitute

for solid research and planning.

Love: While you do many things together with your partner, make time to pursue individual interests.

RABBIT Veer away from an all or nothing approach. Center yourself by finding a balance between your priorities.

Work: Though your caution can save you from unnecessary risk, there are

2021

After the trials and tribulations of 2020, it is with cautious optimism that we look at the Year of the Ox. The second of 12 signs in the Chinese zodiac, the Year of the Ox began on Feb. 12. The ever-hardworking Ox is the epitome of perseverance and gains through steadfast commitment to its goals.

In addition to the animals of the Chinese zodiac, each year is associated with one of five elements. They are wood, fire, earth, metal, and water. This year is the Year of the Metal Ox. Metal signifies fortitude and strength. While Oxen are generally associated with the element of earth, it works in harmony with the element of metal. One would do well to focus on the basic foundations this year to support what may come.

The Ox is nothing if not pragmatic and any grand ideas are tempered by the need to get things done.

There is a natural rhythm and logic to the way Oxen operate, from which others can find solace and comfort.

It is not surprising that Barack Obama, Margaret Thatcher, George Clooney, Princess Diana, Meryl Streep, and Jane Fonda were all born in the Year of the Ox. Whether you agree with them or not, each rose to the challenge in their chosen fields or roles and were all strong advocates for causes they believed in.

As you make your way through the Year of the Metal Ox, there will be no shortage of purpose. Avoid becoming overwhelmed by the sum total of things to be done. Instead, take one task or goal at a time and keep the following in mind as a guide to the year ahead in work and love.

As much as you yearn for the familiarity of old routines, there are some old habits that should be left behind.

Work: There could be a better way to do what you have been doing. A small

instances where it is worth taking a chance.

Love: Drifting in different directions?

Look for ways to bridge the gap or find points of connection. see PREDICTIONS on 15

新年快乐

asianweekly

39 YEARS

FEBRUARY 13 – FEBRUARY 19, 2021

■ PUBLISHER’S BLOG

Reclaiming

Lunar New Year

inpandemic a

The coronavirus pandemic has robbed our summer and our holidays, including Lunar New Year (LNY).

I am not going to let it happen in the Year of the Ox, which begins on Feb. 12. That’s easy to say, and harder to make happen. But we can celebrate many LNY customs if you follow my tips.

Most people think that Lunar New Year is pretty much about food. It’s true there are lots of exotic cuisines in Chinese, Korean, Malaysian, Vietnamese, Singaporean, Taiwanese, Thai, and other Asian cultures during the festival. But the meaning of LNY is more than food. It symbolizes that we meet the new year with a different mindset, and I only realize the wisdom behind this year. Perhaps it has to do with 2020—a horrific pandemic year.

What exactly does LNY traditions and preparations for the festival mean? It means we open ourselves up for future blessings so that we would have a happy and prosperous year. Everything we prepare, before and during the first two weeks, will set the stage for the rest of the year. We clean our homes and use fresh linens and pillow cases on New Year’s Eve to ensure that the new year will bring us a new journey. All of us need to have a different kind of experience in 2021—a fresh start after the unbearable lockdown last year! LNY simply means we leave behind what is evil, we are ready for a new journey, and the force of LNY will land us the magic of fortune. A little mystical perhaps, but LNY has enlightened many believers over thousands of years.

To leave behind misfortunes, we have to do it symbolically by wearing new clothes and shoes, and

Photo by Assunta Ng

By Assunta Ng NORTHWEST ASIAN WEEKLY

Photo provided by QFC

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northwest

Decorative stand at Uwajimaya

wear red (pink if you don’t have red) to welcome the new year on the first day of LNY, Feb. 12. Yes, men too.

If you’re not comfortable wearing a red shirt, then a red tie, scarf or other accessory will do. I haven’t bought new clothes or shoes in the last year. But I definitely would put on my best makeup and wear nice outfits for the occasion, even though I am not going to a party. It creates the mood that we are ready for a brighter year.

Another crucial goal of LNY is to bring our family in the unity of spirit and the joy of being in each other’s company. One LNY tradition is for the whole family to make dumplings together, serving the purpose of sharing food and bonding. My friend and family will do just that, and then play mahjong afterwards.

In the pandemic, the social distancing guidelines forces us to cancel all types of gatherings. However, there are ways you can connect with your family and friends. Send out text messages and photos of New Year greetings or you can arrange to dine together over

QFC’s Lunar New Year section

Zoom. Even though this is not in the LNY rule book, please remember to thank those who mean the world to you. It’s an appropriate time to show your gratitude, too.

Change LNY greetings during COVID

The traditional LNY greetings in Chinese and many Asian communities are “Gung Hay Fat Choi,” meaning “Wishing you making tons of money.” This is not the appropriate greeting during the pandemic. What if someone’s loved ones had just died of COVID? If you don’t have life, what’s the use of having wealth! What we need now is health and safety. You only wish people lots of money when they are jobless or losing a home.

The best greetings would be wishing your friends and family to have “the spirit of a dragon, and the see BLOG on next page

Happy Lunar

N E W

R A E Y

Rod Dembowski

King County Councilmember District 1 www.kingcounty.gov/dembowski

For more information on the King County Council, the legislative branch of our county government, visit: www.kingcounty.gov/council. For more information about county programs and services, please visit: www.kingcounty.gov.

BLOG from previous page energy of a horse,” “A healthy body,” “May your heart’s desire come true,” “A million things go smooth,” or “Peace and happiness.” Those are popular and relevant greetings during COVID.

Give red envelopes

Giving red envelopes to others during LNY means you want them to have luck.

I take this tradition to heart. I give red envelopes every year to my children, grand nephews, employees, and the working class in the Chinatown-International District, and people who serve me at the grocery stores and restaurants.

I know some business owners would object to the lucky money tradition this year.

“Hey, my business lost money last year. Why should I give?” Of course, your employees know you are not making money. But the fact you still hand out red envelopes would make them appreciate working for you so much more. You don’t have to put in a lot of cash in the envelope. Just $1 (a new dollar bill prefer-

northwest

Photo by John Liu

NWAW photo A plate full of Mandarin and tangerine oranges, lucky candy and Chinese-style-gold-bar chocolate, and red envelope, is displayed in my living room for fortune and energy.

asianweekly

Lunar New Year decorations at Lam’s in Tukwila

ably) or more in the envelope will make everyone smile. It’s not about the money.

It’s about compassion and your wish for your workers to have fortune.

Cleaning and removing garbage

Cleaning your home is important in allowing fortune to meander your way. I have been washing table cloths and some other things, and started throwing away junk two weeks ago to prepare for LNY. By the time you read this blog, the Year of the Ox will already be here. It’s better late than never.

A very important ritual: Take out your garbage the day before New Year. Don’t do it on the first day of the year, Feb. 12.

If you do, you may throw away your wealth. Do it on Feb. 13 or afterwards.

Decorate your home

Fresh flowers are a must during LNY. Where I was raised in Hong Kong, we visited the Flower Market five or four days before LNY to get fresh flowers and plants, symbolizing vitality and luck. It was one of the most wonderful experi-

Hope and opportunity in over 40 languages.

For more information about our services, go to acrs.org/services.

3639 Martin Luther King Jr. Way S., Seattle, WA 98144 206-695-7600  acrs.org

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Photo by Assunta Ng

FEBRUARY 13 – FEBRUARY 19, 2021

YOUR VOICE

Tracy Luu’s Lunar New Year steam pudding

ences to celebrate the coming of the new year. Because of COVID, the Hong Kong government wanted to cancel the Flower Market. But people protested. And the event is being held.

Make sure you decorate your home with fresh plants, flowers, and fruits in your living room on the first day of the year, to foster new energy and beginning in your home.

Don’t display faux flowers in your home or office, especially during LNY month. Fake flowers create dead energy.

It’s bad feng shui. If you have them, hide them for a while.

Several Asian supermarkets have beautiful lucky posters in red and gold, of all sizes for a reasonable price. Five years ago, those signs didn’t exist. Buy a couple of those and hang them on your door or windows. I have several of these signs pasted on the Asian Weekly’s storefront. We like them so much, we leave them there intentionally year-round.

To celebrate the Year of the Ox, you can buy Asian costumes and some stuffed cow toys to give to kids, including your grandkids, and educate them

about LNY.

LNY foods

I am blessed that my daughter-in-law and my staff would bring us special foods to celebrate LNY. Fresh fruits such as tangerines and mandarins are my favorites for my family, employees, and friends as they symbolize energy, gold, and luck.

Chinatown-International District restaurants all have their new year menu.

Ask for them when you order takeout. Choose the kind you want for your wishes: Noodles for longevity, whole fish (with the head and tail) for wealth and abundance, oysters for good things, prawns for laughter, lotus seeds for fertility, lotus roots for romance, and many others. Welcome the Year of the Ox with a sumptuous meal. Let it be a catalyst for an exciting and fun journey for you. A new cycle of life to bless everyone!

May you have health and bliss in the Year of the Ox!  Assunta can be reached at assunta@nwasianweekly.com.

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39 YEARS

FEBRUARY 13 – FEBRUARY 19, 2021

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dances, and Lunar New Year traditions

FEBRUARY 13 – FEBRUARY 19, 2021

YOUR VOICE

asianweekly northwest

11

■ EDITORIAL Yale admissions lawsuit dropped On Feb. 3, the Biden administration dropped its discrimination lawsuit against Yale University that alleged the Ivy League school was illegally discriminating against Asian American and white applicants.

Federal prosecutors said the Department of Justice (DOJ)’s underlying investigation, aimed at ensuring Yale complies with federal anti-discrimination laws, continues.

The government accused Yale in October of violating civil rights laws because it “discriminates based on race and national origin in its undergraduate admissions process, and that race is the determinative factor in hundreds of admissions decisions each year.” The investigation stemmed from a 2016 complaint by the New Jersey-based Asian American Coalition for Education (AACE) against Yale, Brown, and Dartmouth.

“I am totally shocked by the Biden DOJ’s hasty decision to drop the Yale lawsuit, only eight days after President Biden signed an executive order claiming to combat anti-Asian discrimination,” said Yukong Zhao, AACE president.

“I am totally shocked by the Biden DOJ’s hasty decision to drop the Yale lawsuit, only eight days after President Biden signed an executive order claiming to combat antiAsian discrimination.”

— Yukong Zhao

Yale said its practices comply with decades of Supreme Court precedent and that it looks at “the whole person” when deciding which applicants to admit.

The Californians for Equal Rights (CFER) called the DOJ’s decision “unsubstantiated,” “a systematic roll back of civil rights protections,” and that it “has committed great injustice to the American people with its acquiescence to race preferences.”

“President Biden says he wants to bring unity, equality, and allow for diverse perspectives in the national conversation,” Rep. Young Kim, a Korean AACE president Yukong Zhao

American from California, told Fox News. “However, between dropping a lawsuit seeking to protect Asian Americans against discrimination in higher education and failing to appoint any Asian Americans or Pacific Islanders to his cabinet, the Biden administration appears uncommitted.”

Freshman congresswoman Rep. Michelle Steel, of Korean ancestry and from California, said, “All students should have equal opportunity to succeed on their own merit and shutting the door to applicants based on race is wrong.”

A similar but private suit against Harvard continues, this one brought by Students for Fair Admissions. But it’s likely the government will soon withdraw its supporting brief that scores Harvard for “systematically disfavoring Asian American applicants.”

While we are glad to see the Biden administration reject terms such as “China flu,” the president must also appreciate the real and present harm when America’s most competitive colleges and universities reject their children based on their race no matter their other qualifications. 

■ LETTER TO THE EDITOR Resident has concerns over health hazard near elementary school

Dear Editor, I have lived in the Central District near Bailey-Gatzert Elementary School on East Yesler Way since 2003.

From research, I learned that the school faces many challenges in meeting the educational needs of its very diverse student population—student progress, test scores, equity overview, low-income students (79% are low-income), students with disabilities, and homeless students.

I believe the staff and teachers are doing their best, but there is a new challenge for the school.

The Seattle School District and now the City of Seattle must immediately examine their support and assistance for Bailey-Gatzert Elementary School.

My reason for mentioning the City of Seattle is this. Recent unauthorized

encampments have emerged next to the playing field of the school on its south border.

As we know, 'sweeps' of unauthorized tent encampments have been paused by the City to prevent the spread of Covid-19.

However, this action does not address the problem of Covid-19 and the general public health problem for the school and the surrounding neighborhood.

The most serious aspect is the threat of a biohazard, not only to the school children and staff, but to surrounding neighbors at Wisteria View Manor, unsheltered services, food bank providers, as well as small independent businesses.

Needles and human waste, as well as general, accumulated garbage are unfortunately a byproduct of this unauthorized encampment. So is witnessed drug dealing and drug use.

I belong to a Facebook community group called “16 S and S Main,” which particularly advocates for our community between Jackson Street, Yesler, 14th, and 18th Avenues.

This neighborhood includes social services for the unsheltered, low-income, and senior housing, and the food insecure in our city, perhaps more than other more advantaged parts of our City.

I am grateful that our part of the City has stepped up to the plate, so to speak, in terms of support That said, we need help as we turn to advocating for one of the City’s poorest and most diverse student bodies at Bailey-Gatzert Elementary School.

It is alarming that this city elementary school with all its attendant challenges might not be receiving the attention, protection, and support it needs and

deserves from the City and the Seattle School District.

This, and any other unauthorized, unregulated tent encampments must not be allowed near Bailey-Gatzert or any other public school which is still being used during the pandemic I ask that the safety of Bailey-Gatzert Elementary School’s students and staff receive immediate attention from the City of Seattle and the school district with regard to the public health challenge this unauthorized encampment on its south side presents—now and in the future.

If not the future’s children, then whom do we protect, and when?  Sincerely, — Patricia Fong

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asianweekly northwest

FEBRUARY 13 – FEBRUARY 19, 2021

■ COMMUNITY NEWS Deadline extended to find new ISRD Board member SEATTLE — Mayor Jenny Durkan wants community members to apply for an open position on the International Special Review District (ISRD) Board.

The original deadline of Feb. 5 has been extended till Feb. 22.

The seven-member board reviews façade alterations, signs, new construction, changes of use, and street improvements, and makes recommendations to the Seattle Department of Neighborhoods director for all properties within the ISRD.

The goals of the board are to maintain architectural character, cultural heritage, social diversity, and, through the use of historic preservation, enhance the economic climate.

The open position is one of two seats on the board that are filled by mayoral appointment. Individuals who have an architectural background and an interest in historic preservation and/or familiarity with the ChinatownInternational District are encouraged to apply.

Board meetings are held on the second and fourth

39 YEARS

Tuesdays of each month at 4:30 p.m. for one to three hours.

Board members serve without compensation.

Interested applicants must be Seattle residents. Send a letter of interest and resume by Feb. 22 to rebecca. frestedt@seattle.gov and reference the International Special Review District in the subject line.  For more information, call Rebecca Frestedt at (206) 684-0226.

■ WORLD NEWS

Flower farms see their Lunar New Year sales wilted by virus

By ALICE FUNG and NICOLE KO THE ASSOCIATED PRESS HONG KONG (AP) — The Lunar New Year holiday is usually a busy period for flower farms in Hong Kong, which gear up to sell plum blossoms, orchids and daffodils at flower markets during the festive season. But the pandemic and restrictions on such festive markets this year has taken a toll on many farms, who worry that they may be left with an oversupply of flowers.

Traditionally, Lunar New Year fairs—known as “flower markets’’ in

Cantonese—are held before the holidays, with thousands of florists and festive goods vendors hawking their wares to the public.

This year, the Hong Kong government will implement restrictions on such markets, which can only run at half-capacity and shortened business hours.

The policy has prompted concerns from farm owners like Yeung Siu-lung, who runs one of Hong Kong’s largest orchid farms. To prepare for the festive season, he had grown over 30,000 pots of orchids in 10 greenhouses at Hong Kong’s rural New Territories.

Yeung, who had initially planned to

have 16 stalls in flower markets, is now planning alternative arrangements to sell his supply of orchids, including selling them online or encouraging buyers to visit the farms directly.

Lunar New Year is traditionally a boost for some businesses in Hong Kong, especially retail businesses. There is usually a big seasonal sale of festive items such as holiday snacks, gifts and household decorations, which often include flowers.

Flower farms like Yeung typically make about 50% of their profits from the Lunar New Year season alone, according to business analyst Francis Lun.

Pinky Chan is one of Yeung’s customers who drove an hour to his farm to buy orchids. Amid the ongoing pandemic, Chan thought it was still important to create a festive atmosphere amid difficult times.

“We Chinese people feel happier if our homes are filled with red and green during the Lunar New Year,’’ Chan said.

“Because of the pandemic, we are all not very happy, we are not able to meet with our families. So I hope buying a pot of flowers for my parents can make them feel a bit happier.’’ 

■ NATIONAL NEWS

Racial disparities seen in New York City vaccination rates

By KAREN MATTHEWS ASSOCIATED PRESS NEW YORK (AP) — Black and Latino New York City residents are receiving COVID-19 vaccines at far lower rates than white or Asian New Yorkers, Mayor Bill de Blasio acknowledged on Jan. 31 as he vowed to continue expanding access to the shots in communities that have been ravaged by the virus.

The data released by the city’s health department shows that 48% of the New York City residents who have gotten at least one vaccine dose are white, a figure that far exceeds the roughly one-third of the city’s population that is non-Hispanic white.

The vaccine numbers are incomplete because about 40% of people who have been vaccinated in the city haven’t provided demographic information. Still, the figures mirror vaccination data from other cities and states, with Black people in all locations getting inoculated at levels below their share of the population.

Just 11% of vaccine doses administered to New York City residents went to Black people and 15% to Latinos, although Black and Latino New Yorkers make up 24% and 29% of the city’s population, respectively.

The percentage of vaccine doses that went to Asians, 15%, is about the same as their proportion of the city’s population, 14%.

“Clearly, we do see a profound disparity that needs to be addressed aggressively and

creatively,’’ de Blasio said in a conference call with reporters. “We’ve got a profound problem of distrust and hesitancy, particularly in communities of color.’’

De Blasio said that measures intended to

boost vaccination rates in communities of color will include streamlining the cumbersome application process and translating the see VACCINATION on 14

FEBRUARY 13 – FEBRUARY 19, 2021

YOUR VOICE

■ WORLD NEWS

asianweekly northwest

13

Chinatopix via AP

China reserve shows off 10 panda cubs to mark Lunar New Year

Baby pandas climb on a display for Lunar New Year of the Ox at the China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda at the Wolong Nature Reserve in southwestern China's Sichuan province. Ten baby pandas made their debut in China's leading panda reserve on Feb. 3.

BEIJING (AP) — Ten panda cubs made their public debut in China’s leading panda reserve on Feb. 3 to mark Lunar New Year.

One appeared shy and covered its face with both paws when it saw the crowd, while another went rogue and crawled away from its keeper before being caught.

The pandas range in age from 4 to 6 months, and all resulted from natural mating, according to the China Conservation and Research Center for Giant Panda in southwest China’s Sichuan province.

The black-and-white fluff balls made their appearance in a playground at the center adorned with Lunar New Year’s decorations including lanterns, traditional Chinese knots, paper cars and flags.

“Newborn baby pandas from the class of 2020 ... wish you a happy New Year and lots of good luck in the Year of the Ox,’’ their keepers shouted with the pandas in their arms, while some tried to clamber away.

Bamboo baskets of treats were prepared for the pandas, with the Chinese character “fu,’’ meaning good fortune and blessings, written on the outside.

This mimicked the Chinese tradition of adults giving red envelopes with money inside to children during the Lunar New Year to pass them good wishes and blessings.

Instead of money, the baby pandas got snacks. Some of them were curious about the baskets, while others were distracted by the toys and decorations nearby. 

China not convinced by Head of Tokyo Games Canada’s Wu-Tang Clan won’t resign after explanation statement about women BEIJING (AP) — A ruckus brought by China over Canadian T-shirts bearing an altered logo of the New York hiphop group Wu-Tang clan continued, with China’s Foreign Ministry saying it didn’t buy Canada’s explanation that the shirts were not an insult linked to the

coronavirus.

Canada’s Foreign Ministry said earlier this month that the shirts using the “W’’ logo of the Wu-Tang Clan but with the group’s name replaced with “Wuhan’’ see WU-TANG CLAN on 15

By STEPHEN WADE AP SPORTS WRITER

TOKYO (AP) — The president of the Tokyo Olympic organizing committee said he would not resign despite pressure on him to do so after making derogatory

comments earlier in the week about women.

The controversy surrounding Yoshiro Mori, the gaffe-prone former Japanese prime minister, is one more problem the see TOKYO GAMES on 14

KING COUNTY, WASHINGTON NOTICE TO BIDDERS Sealed bids will be received by the King County Procurement Services Section through the County’s E-Procurement system for the following listed bids.

Instructions on how to submit a bid electronically, view any current bid opportunities, express interest, communicate with the Buyer via Message app and/or successfully submit a bid through the E-Procurement system prior to the Close date and time indicated in the solicitation are provided on the County’s website or by following this link: https://www.kingcounty. gov/~/media /depts/f inance/procurement /Documents/EProcurement_Supplier_Solicitation_User_Guide_Rev1_2020_ Final_11062020.ashx?la=en King County encourages minority business enterprise participation. King County does not discriminate on the basis of disability in its programs, services, and employment opportunities for persons with disabilities.

KC000097 OPENS: 02/25/21 Project Formulation and Planning Services Pre-Proposal Conference: Monday, February 8, 2021 at 11 am Conference Call: 425-653-6586 Conference ID: 464361915 KC000072 OPENS: 02/25/21 Specialized On-Track Equipment Rental Services Pre-Proposal Conference: Monday, February 8, 2021 at 11 am Conference Call: 425-653-6586 Conference ID: 748062690

“The Story of Seattle Chinatown International District Murals” youtube.com/watch?v=VE9BA7KkbKc produced by northwest asian weekly & seattle chinese post funded by

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39 YEARS

FEBRUARY 13 – FEBRUARY 19, 2021

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Kitsap Transit is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.

Urban Renaissance Group is a Seattle-based commercial real estate company. We are looking for a Building engineer 2 or 3 to provide building maintenance of all mechanical and electrical areas of our Class A buildings. Basic plumbing such as installation, adjustment and repair of plumbing equipment as well as HVAC building maintenance is required.

Mentoring and supervision of team members is a strong need as well. Contact Jackie Johnson at jackiej@urbanrnegroup.com for further information.

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Find NWAW on social media on Facebook, Twitter Instagram!

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Advertize in our Service Directory below. Just $10 a week! Minimum: 12 weeks for $120.

Call John at 206223-0623 for more info.

Subscribe to the Northwest Asian Weekly $40 for one year.

Mail to: NW Asian Weekly 412 Maynard Ave. S. Seattle, WA 98104 or call 206-223-0623

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VACCINATION from 12 materials into additional languages.

Outreach efforts aimed at combating vaccine distrust in some communities have included virtual appearances by the mayor at churches serving Black congregations.

The coronavirus pandemic has killed Black and Latino people at disproportionately high rates in New York City and across the nation, and advocates who feared that the vaccination data would show similar disparities had pressed de Blasio to release the numbers.

“The demographic data on vaccine distribution that the city finally released today after long delays confirms what we feared and expected— that the people and communities of more color, disproportionately harmed by the pandemic, have been disproportionately hindered in equitable access to vaccination,’’ Public Advocate Jumaane Williams said in a statement.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo said the statewide breakdown of who has been vaccinated will be released in the coming days, but he expects those numbers to show racial disparities as well.

“You’re going to see the Black population with the highest hesitance, then Latino, then Asian, then white,’’ Cuomo said in a separate conference call.

Cuomo said the state plans to advertise the coronavirus vaccine with a campaign directed specifically at Black New Yorkers. 

TOKYO GAMES from 13 postponed Tokyo Olympics really didn’t need as organizers and the IOC try to pull off the games in the midst of a pandemic. They are scheduled to open on July 23.

Mori said, “I have been working hard and helped devotedly for seven years. I will not be stepping down.’’

The International Olympic Committee said it will not urge Mori to resign, saying his apology was enough.

In an online meeting of the Japanese Olympic Committee board of directors in early February, Mori was reported by the daily newspaper Asahi Shimbun as saying women talk too much in meetings.

His comments have created a storm in Japan, where women are grossly under-represented in politics and in board rooms.

“The statement made at the Japan Olympic Committee was an inappropriate expression, contrary to the spirit of the Olympics and

Paralympics,’’ Mori said. “I am deeply remorseful. I would like to withdraw the statement.

I would like to apologize for any unpleasant feelings.’’

Mori’s comment came when he was asked about the presence of few women on the board of the Japanese Olympic Committee.

“If we are going to have more women directors, someone has remarked, then meetings go on for a long time unless we restrict the comments,“ he said. “I’m not saying who that

is.’’

In defending Mori, the IOC noted its support for gender equality as “one of the key pillars’’ of Olympic values, including an increase in the number of women on its own executive board to 33% with five of 15 members.

“President Mori has apologized for his comments.

With this, the IOC considers the issue closed,’’ the Olympic body said. 

SOLUTION from SUDOKU on page 6.

FEBRUARY 13 – FEBRUARY 19, 2021

YOUR VOICE

asianweekly northwest

15

PREDICTIONS from 7

MONKEY

DRAGON When you do something, you want to do it right. However, be wary of the costs of achieving perfection.

Work: Settling into a new or additional role? Your strong communication skills will inspire confidence in your leadership.

Love: Resist the urge to prejudge the situation. If you listen, you could discover there is much more to the story.

Has your social life been on hold recently? To connect with others, you may need to adjust how you interact.

Work: If you want to stay above the fray, don’t allow yourself to get entangled in petty politics.

Love: You know how to bring out the best in those around you, but do allow yourself to shine as well.

ROOSTER Has your directness landed you in hot water in the past?

Some things are better left unsaid.

Work: Despite the pressures around you, it is beneficial to proceed at your own pace. Steady progress is your game.

Love: Beware of outward appearances. How someone presents themselves won’t necessarily reflect what is in their heart.

SNAKE Once you pick a side, you are reluctant to deviate from it. Don’t ignore evidence that is contrary to your position.

Work: Quick to read the situation for what it is, you should be an able navigator as you rely on your considerable experience.

Love: While you are hesitant about sharing your vulnerabilities, it is a necessary step to building trust.

DOG A long-held burden could soon be lifted off your shoulders, prompting you to make a significant change for the better.

Work: Sometimes there is no point of reference to start from. In that case, you must make your own rules.

Love: Does it seem like you’re operating from a different playbook? Stop playing games and be honest about how you feel.

HORSE You can talk a good game, but it is your actions that ultimately will show where you really stand.

Work: While it is important to get the job done, how you go about it could also factor into future opportunities.

Love: Have you finally met your match? Although your inclination is to rush in, there is value in taking it slow.

PIG You are one to meet the moment rather than to shy away.

Such boldness will not go unrewarded.

Work: An astute observer, you look at a problem from all angles. Take a step back if you are looking too closely.

Love: Filling in the blanks with guesses is far from ideal.

Take the time to ask the questions that interest you.

GOAT Did you come full circle on your journey? There is net gain if you arrive with a new understanding.

Work: You are not defined by your limitations. Instead, you would do well to let your creative side flow free.

Love: Independent by nature, you’re at your best when given room to grow. A good relationship will let you do so.

WU-TANG CLAN from 13 was not intended as a slight. It apologized for any misunderstanding.

The Chinese-made T-shirts were reportedly ordered last summer by someone at the Canadian Embassy in Beijing and word of them began circulating recently on the internet in China.

Chinese critics say the “W’’ is actually a bat and the shirt is meant to imply a connection between the animals and the virus outbreak in the city of Wuhan, playing on a stereotype about the Chinese taste for eating exotic species.

The virus that causes COVID-19 is suspected of originating in bats and its outbreak was first detected in Wuhan.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin told reporters on Feb. 3 that Canada’s explanation thus far was “not convincing.’’

“The wrongdoing of the Canadian staff concerned has already caused an egregious impact and triggered strong resentment and discontent among the ordinary Chinese people,’’ Wang said. “The Canadian side should take the matter seriously and give a clear explanation to the Chinese side as soon as possible.’’

The Canadian Foreign Ministry did not immediately reply to a request for a response to Wang’s

statement.

The controversy is a further irritant to relations between the countries that have nosedived in the past two years over China’s demand that Canada release a top executive of communications giant Huawei

Sun can be reached at info@nwasianweekly.com.

who is wanted on fraud charges in the United States.

Meng Wanzhou, who is also the daughter of the company’s founder, denies the charges. China says her case is politically motivated as part of a U.S. effort to stifle the nation’s

global economic expansion.

Her lawyers argue she has been subjected to abuse of process and should be freed.

Canada arrested Meng at Vancouver’s airport in late 2018.

In apparent retaliation, China detained former Canadian

diplomat Michael Kovrig and Canadian entrepreneur Michael Spavor, placed restrictions on various Canadian exports to China, and sentenced a convicted Canadian drug smuggler to death in a sudden retrial. 

Happy Lunar New Year, from my family to yours. May the Year of the Ox be a year of positivity, honesty, and prosperity for all.

— Congressman Adam Smith, Democrat, 9th District

16

asianweekly northwest

39 YEARS

FEBRUARY 13 – FEBRUARY 19, 2021

Year of the Ox

The Viet Wah Group wish you Happy New Year in the Year of the Ox. May you have good health, prosperity and fortune!

celebration NWAW’s LNY Costume Contest 2020’s winners, from left: Laurie Yaokum, Vivian Zhao, and Natalie Lo.

2021 Happy

Lunar New Year

WE WANT TO SEE PHOTOS

of your Lunar New Year costume

Attire should be culturally relevant to the Lunar New Year Celebration and photos must be your own.

PEOPLE’S CHOICE: Winner gets a stuffed ox from one of our sponsors and a highlighted photo in the Northwest Asian Weekly newspaper on Feb. 28.

越華集團 Viet-Wah Supermarket

Adults & children are welcome to participate. Please submit photos to info@nwasianweekly.com or online at http://nwasianweekly.com/post-image

by Feb. 20. No virtual celebration.

Viet-Wah Asian Food Market

越華綜合商場

越華超級市場 (連頓店)

Tel: (206) 329-1399

Tel: (425) 336-6888

Happy Lunar New Year

Toshiko Hasegawa Executive Director King County

Rosa Mai Project Manager King County

Carrie Huie-Pascua Yakima County

Brenda O'Brien Project Coordinator Pierce County

Sam Cho King County

Nam Nguyen Chair Thurston County

Va'eomatoka Valu King County

Lydia Faitalia 1st Vice Chair King County

Ping Ping Spokane County

Ekkarath Sisavatdy 2nd Vice Chair King County

Lalita Uppala King County

Lori Wada Pierce County

Julio Diaz King County

Tam Dinh King County

Helen Christensen Clark County

For information on coronavirus resources, go to https://coronavirus.wa.gov To report hate crimes and bias incidents, go to https://stopthehate.community/