Asian Avenue magazine - April 2018

asian avenue magazine

Connecting Cultures Linking Lives

bring your family together at the dinner table with Father Leo Patalinghug

New report released about Denver’s Asian community

April 2018 Volume 13 Issue 4

7

Asian American podcasts to check out

How to make Chinese Stir Fry Noodles

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Dear Asian Avenue readers,

magazine

Spring is here! This month we share the story and teachings of Father Leo Patalinghug. He says, “In my experience, nothing creates a better environment for a great conversation than time shared in the kitchen.”

This is very true in Chinese families—how I grew up and also how I raised my children. Coming together for a meal is the best way to keep families close. Read more about Fr. Leo and all his endeavors. In addition to being a priest, he loves cooking and is also a best-selling author.

As we gear up for May, Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, we will be selecting the 2018 Asian American Heroes of Colorado in April. Stay tuned to our next issue to see who will be honored this year. There are so many unsung heroes in our community and this is our opportunity to bring their work and altruism to the forefront.

I would like to applaud the Denver Asian American Pacific Islander Commission (DAAPIC) for its commitment to listening to the voices of Denver residents, nonprofits, government agencies, businesses, and religious organizations to identify gaps and strengths for Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) community needs. The commission released a report that will provide recommendations to the City of Denver which include to: ensure culturally responsive training is available to City and County of Denver employees; collect program and service information by ethnicity; and develop and implement a citywide language access policy. Read the report at: bit.ly/DAAPICReport.

Speaking of ensuring Asian American voices are heard, learn more about podcasts that are hosted by Asian Americans and provide topics related to politics and news for our API communities. We hope you enjoy this issue!

Christina Yutai Guo, Publisher Asian Avenue magazine | www.asianavemag.com

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April 2018 | Publisher’s Note

asian avenue staff & support Publisher & Founder: Christina Yutai Guo President: Annie Guo VanDan Senior Designer: C.G. Yao Copy Editor: Jaime Marston Cook Editorial Director: Samantha Quee Marketing Manager: Joie Ha Staff Writer: Patricia Kaowthumrong Staff Writer: Mary Jeneverre Schultz Photographer: Trang Luong

contributing writers Samantha Joo, Amy Ng

contributing photographers Denver Travel & Adventure Show.

Jeannette Herreria, Henry Kweon

on the cover Father Leo Patalinghug is a Catholic priest from Baltimore that believes in strengthening families and communities by bringing them around the dinner table. He is also an internationally renowned conference speaker, author, and TV host of “Savoring Our Faith” on EWTN.

subscriptions To subscribe, e-mail info@asianavemag.com or visit asianavemag.com/subscribe. A one-year subscription is $25 for 12 issues, a two-year subscription is 40 for 24 issues. Please make checks or money orders payable to Asian Avenue magazine. For details about special corporate or group rates, please call during business hours: Monday - Friday, 9am to 5pm. Shipping/handling included.

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For more information, call during business hours or e-mail us at marketing@asianavemag.com for our media kit and ad rates.

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Asian Avenue magazine (ISSN 1932-1449) reserves all copyrights to this issue. No parts of this edition can be reproduced in any manner without written permission. The views expressed in articles are the authors’ and not necessarily those of Asian Avenue magazine. Authors may have consulting or other business relationships with the companies they discuss.

Published by Asian Avenue Magazine, Inc. P.O. Box 221748 Denver, CO 80222-1748 Tel: 303.937.6888 | info@asianavemag.com

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Asian Avenue magazine is in association with the Colorado Asian Culture and Education Network.

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CONTENTS

april 2018

EVENTS

7

Event calendar

8

Museum Exhibit: Journey through the melodies of rock, blues, and country music with this IMAX

14

Feature

10

7 Asian American Podcasts You Don’t Want To Miss!

INside STORY

12

Asian inspired designs head down the catwalk at Denver Fashion Week

Cultural tidbits

CHEF’s MENU

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What do you get when you combine a former award-winning choreographer for break-dancing groups, black belt martial arts instructor, acclaimed chef,TV and radio personality, and priest? None other than Fr. Leo Patalinghug!

Learn how to cook Chicken Stir Fry with Rice Noodles

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This April 5, honor loved ones who

have passed by celebrating the Tomb Sweeping Festival [Qingming Jie]

Asian american news

22

News about Asian American health and entertainment

BOOK REVIEW

24

Sophia of Silicon Valley by Anna Yen highlights what it’s like as a woman to work in the tech industry

25

Q&A session with author Anna Yen

ON SCENE

26

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Asian Pacific Development Center celebrates spring banquet Denver Asian American Pacific Islander Commission introduces its first report

Asian Avenue Magazine, Inc. P.O. Box 221748 Denver, CO 80222-1748 | Tel: 303.937.6888 E-mail: info@asianavemag.com | www.asianavemag.com 6

April 2018 | Table of Contents

28 29

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Dead Sea Scrolls Exhibit entices curious Christians, interested historians and hopeful archaeologists Wanderlusters and tourists plan for their next vacation after the travel show ‘Visualize into Reality’ workshop empowers API women

25 Find us @AsianAveMag

#AsianAveMag

Ducks in a Row - An Aging Marketplace Saturday, April 7, 10am to 2pm

Crown Hill Cemetery Pavilion Building 7777 W. 29th Ave. Wheat Ridge, CO 80033 Cost: Free For more info, visit www.acccolorado.org

This year Nate’s Night is partnering with the Colorado Bluebird Project. This special project is a charity music concert series founded by the Future Arts Foundation, which provides musical instruments donations, scholarships for youth arts lessons, and support to local musicians and artists. Come out to enjoy an all-star bluegrass lineup: Colorado Bluebirds (featuring: Adam Aijala of Yonder Mountain String Band; Andy Thorn of Leftover Salmon; Bridget Law and Dango Rose of Elephant Revival) and The Lonesome Days.

Women’s Self-Defense Awareness & Empowerment Seminar Saturday, April 28, 10am to 12pm

Karate Do Kan | 8025 W Colfax Ave, Lakewood, CO 80214 Cost: Free | For more info, contact Kaz Kusube at karatedokan@yahoo.com or 303-233-7354.

At the Asian Chamber’s Ducks in a Row – An Aging Marketplace, company representatives will provide panel discussions on a number of aging topics. Know someone who needs additional help for their mental health, physical well-being or financial planning? There is a multitude of information on how to handle aging affairs that can be confusing, hard to understand or just too much to digest. The Asian Chamber of Commerce would like to help you navigate through the maze!

Career Breakthroughs Panel Thursday, April 12, 5:30pm to 7:30pm

University of Colorado-Denver Student Commons Building (ACAD) - Room 320 1201 Larimer Street, Denver, CO 80204 Cost: Free For more info and to register, visit www.naaapcolorado.org/ career-breakthroughs.

Discover pivotal points in your career! Join National Association of Asian American Professionals (NAAAP) Colorado and hear from a panel of professionals sharing stories about breakthrough moments in their careers.

NAAAP Colorado is partnering with University of Colorado-Denver to put on this one-of-a-kind event. After the panel, there will be a networking hour downstairs at Tivoli Tap Room. Panelists include: Joanne Liu (Director of Operations at Turing School of Software and Design); Lisa Nguyen, PE (Transportation Engineer at WSP); Raj Mahindroo (Engineering Manager at Intel Corporation). Professionals and students are welcome!

As April is Sexual Awareness Month, Karate Do Kan will host a free women’s self-defense awareness and empowerment seminar with special guests: Julia Reeder, LPC (family counselor) and Lisa Abo (Aikido instructor/expert).

Free Day at Denver Museum of Nature & Science Sunday, April 29, 9am to 5pm

Denver Museum of Nature & Science | 2001 Colorado Blvd, Denver, CO 80205 Cost: Free | For more info, visit www.dmns.org.

The Denver Museum of Nature & Science is pleased to continue its partnership with the Mexican Cultural Center to present the fifth annual Día del Niño celebration.

Enjoy music and dance performances by local community groups, special crafts, science and nature activities, free admission to “Creatures of Light” and discounted admission to “Dead Sea Scrolls.”

Asian Chamber Business After Hours Wednesday, April 18, 6pm to 7:30pm

King’s Land Chinese Seafood Restaurant 2200 W. Alameda Ave. Denver, CO 80223 Cost: $25 ACC Members | $30 Non-Members For more info and to register, visit www.acccolorado.org.

Enjoy networking and meeting fellow Chamber members and small business owners while sampling delicious dim sum and other appetizers at one of the favorite Chinese restaurants in town!

Nate’s Night Benefit Concert Thursday, April 26, Begins at 9pm

Ophelia’s Electric Soapbox | 1215 20th St. Denver, CO 80202 Cost: $20 For more info, visit www.nathanyipfoundation.org.

Event Calendar | asian avenue magazine

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Journey through the melodies of rock, blues, and country music Music is the universal language. Everyone loves music. We need music in our lives.

These themes come together in an IMAX film from MacGillvray Freeman Films, called America’s Musical Journey at the Phipps IMAX theater inside the Denver Museum of Nature & Science.

Featuring the iconic musical cities of New Orleans, Memphis, Miami and Chicago, just to name a few, the IMAX film will transport fans to experience this amazing trip of country, blues, jazz and country music.

“America’s Musical Journey offers something for the heart and the mind, presenting an inspiring story of our nation through the power of music,” said Amanda Bennett, director of market-

ing at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science.” We can’t wait to share this incredible film with our community.”

The 40-minute documentary allows viewers to see a diversity and tapestry of immigrants coming to American and playing the music they want to create for themselves, families and communities.

According to the IMAX’s website: “Tap your toe across America as you experience the sounds of jazz, blues, zydeco, and oldtime country music and see how they have shaped our nation’s distinctive musical heritage.”

The IMAX film is playing now through September 16, 2018.

IMAX prices start at $7. For more information, visit www.dmns. org/imax/current-films/americas-musical-journey-3d.

America’s Musical Journey IMAX Denver Museum of Nature & Science Run Dates: Now - September 6, 2018 Run Time: 40 minutes Showtimes: Daily: 10:30 a.m., 2 p.m., 5 p.m.

Fridays and Saturdays: 6 p.m.

Now in its 10th year, we celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month by honoring deserving members of the Asian American community - the unsung heroes, the shining stars and the selfless leaders!

Asian American Heroes of Colorado Award Ceremony + Dim Sum Brunch Saturday, May 19, 2018 | 10am to 12pm

Empress Seafood Restaurant 2200 W. Alameda Ave. #44, Denver, CO 80223 Tickets: $30 Adult/General | $20 Student

Award ceremony includes recognition of 2018 Asian American Heroes of Colorado, acceptance speeches, dim sum brunch and a silent auction!

Get tickets at: tinyurl.com/AAHeroesCO-Tix For more information, e-mail info@cacenetwork.org or call 303-937-6888.

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April 2018 | Museum Exhibit

Golden Shanghai Asian Restaurant

● The Best Chinese Restaurant by 710 AM Restaurant Show ● The Best Chinese Restaurant by the 1430 KEZW Restaurant Show ● Voted 2007 Top 100 Chinese Restaurant in the US

1412 S. Parker Rd. A-134 Denver, CO 80231 (303) 743-7666 (303)743-9079 (303)743-8210

CATER YOUR NEXT EVENT! $45 for 50 pieces of sushi

NOODLES

SUSHI

RICE BOWLS

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Asian American Podcasts You Don’t Want To Miss!

By Annie Guo VanDan

Are you still new to the world of podcasts? Or are you an avid listener of daily or weekly shows? A podcast is an audio show usually spread across a series of episodes, which can be downloaded from the Internet and listened to on your phone or computer. Podcasts are a series of recorded content pieces revolving around a core idea or a specific theme just like your favorite TV shows.

Don’t miss these podcasts discussing Asian-American culture and topics. If you are new to podcasts, check these out to get your feet wet. Whether its featuring politics, pop culture or books, these podcasts give voice to the Asian-American experience.

Model Majority is a podcast about politics, culture, and life through the eyes of Asian-American grassroots organizers (former members of political campaigns, the Obama White House, Department of Commerce, the Democratic National Convention.

The podcast is by three Asian Americans: Tony Nagatani, Punya Krishnappa, and Kevin Xu, currently in tech and Hollywood.

They said: “We started the Model Majority Podcast as a First Amendment project to talk about politics, culture, and life as Asian-Americans.”

“It’s a voice that’s sorely lacking in our public discourse, especially considering that the Asian American and Pacific Islanders community is growing at a faster rate than any other comparable racial group.

It’s a community that needs to be more heard and better understood. And we will try our best to help you with that.”

modelmajoritypodcast.com 10

April 2018 | Feature

The Asian American Voice podcast provides hope, inspiration and strategies to the Asian-American professional that feels stuck in their career and life.

The podcast was founded in March 2016 by Korean-American B.J. Kang, who lives in the San Francisco Bay Area. Kang is a certified professional coach, consultant, speaker, and trainer.

Show topics have included: how to have a positive mindset, pivoting in your career and business, using crowdfunding to launch a product, etc.

According to Kang, “I created The Asian American Voice to offer hope and inspiration to the Asian-American professional that is feeling stuck in their career and life by sharing my journey and interviewing other Asian-Americans that are doing work in alignment with their strengths, values, and passions.”

theasianamericanvoice.com

Books & boba is a book club dedicated to books written by authors of Asian and Pacific Islander descent. We cover a wide range of genres including contemporary, historical fiction, sci-fi, fantasy, young adult, nonfiction, thrillers, graphic novels, and memoirs.

Every month, the hosts of the book club record a podcast episode to discuss the month’s book. Members are strongly encouraged to share their thoughts on the monthly pick in the Goodreads forums (www.goodreads.com).

booksandboba.com

THEY CALL US BRUCE was founded by writer/columnist Jeff Yang and creator of the blog Angry Asian Man Phil Yu. The two friends host each episode as they present an unfiltered conversation about what’s happening in Asian America.

Their recent episode, “They Call Us #OscarsSoWhite,” they welcome April Reign, creator of the viral hashtag #OscarsSoWhite. Recorded on the eve of the 90th Academy Awards, they discuss Black Panther, the tired old excuses of the Hollywood establishment, and where the movement is headed.

A part of the Kollaboration Movement, supporting Asian Americans in arts and media, the KollabCast is a weekly podcast about pop culture and the creative life from an Asian American perspective.

Hosts Marvin Yueh, Minji Chang, and sometimes a guest or two meet weekly to chat about pop culture, current events, and the important issues affecting Asian America (and sometimes Canada).

Wake up! Saturday School is a podcast where Brian Hu and Ada Tseng teach your unwilling children about Asian American pop culture history.

New episodes released Saturdays at 8am, when all our friends are still in bed watching cartoons. It’ll be a blast from the past, as they dig up some of their favorite works they’ve come across covering Asian American arts & entertainment over the years.

kollaboration.org/kollabcast

soundcloud.com/ saturdayschoolpodcast

theycallusbruce.libsyn.com

GOOD MUSLIM BAD MUSLIM is a monthly podcast featuring Tanzila “Taz” Ahmed and Zahra Noorbakhsh.

The podcast is about the good and the bad of the American Muslim female experience. But you know, satirically & disturbingly hilarious.

The podcast has been featured in Oprah Magazine, Wired, Mother Jones, NPR, Buzzfeed, Cosmopolitan, Elle, and Forbes. In May 2016, the podcast had the honor of the ultimate creeping sharia with a live recording from inside the White House (Obama edition).

Live shows of #GoodMuslimBadMuslim have also been held across the country including Asian American Writers Workshop (NYC), 2016 SXSW (Austin,) Wharton School (Philadelphia), Islamic Cultural Center (Oakland), and University of Minnesota (Minneapolis).

In April 2017, #GoodMuslimBadMuslim was honored by the City of Los Angeles for Asian Pacific American Heritage Month as Activists of the Year. In November 2016, the podcast was honored by OCA-GLA for the Rising Star 2016 Image Award.

According to Taz and Zahra, “As Muslim American women, we are walking this fine line between what it means to be good and bad. So really, what does it mean to be a good Muslim, when we as American women are getting mixed messages from all different angles?

We’ve decided to say - eff it.”

“We’ll define what it means to be a good American Muslim ourselves and through our #GoodMuslimBadMuslim podcast. And poke fun at both sides of this margin. We’ll create our own narrative how we see fit, and with lots of satire and laughs.”

goodmuslimbadmuslim.com

Asian American Podcasts | asian avenue magazine

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Asian inspired designs head down the catwalk at Denver Fashion Week

By Joie Ha Denver Fashion Week features all the largest fashion trends from designers, makeup artists, hair stylists, and models in Colorado and nationally. The entire extravaganza includes a myriad of events featuring multiple fashion shows, workshops, and even a fundraiser—all spanning across an entire week from March 18 to 25, 2018.

For the first time this year the Paper Fashion Show, a fundraiser in its 14th year, was included in the lineup of events.

The Paper Fashion Show is a competition that only allows competitors to use paper to construct an entire outfit. On Friday, March 23, over 30 design teams presented their masterpieces on the runway to a panel of local judges. The theme for

the year was inspired by the history and culture of different geographic locations.

Asia was well-represented in the competition with designs inspired by Vietnam, Thailand, China, and India. Two of the winning pieces, the Empress of China

by Paper Couture and Lady of the Rain

by Unsung Wolves, were inspired by the Tang and Qing Dynasties of Chinese history. The first prize winner went to the beautiful piece, Aztec Princess, by Beto’s Hair Studio inspired by 15th century Mexico.

Overall, the show included diverse and inclusive designs and designers. A portion of the proceeds of the Paper Fashion Show went to DAVA, the Downtown Aurora Visual Arts organization that aims

to empower urban youth ages 3 to 17 through visual arts.

Another highlight of the week was the show on Saturday, March 24 that featured National Designers like Velvet Wolf (Denver), Kouture (Denver), Hogan McLaughlin (NYC), Manfredonia, (NYC), and Xuly.Bet, (NYC). With designs ranging from demure to bold, the audience was consistently captivated by the artistic attire donned by the models and showcased on the catwalk. The energy was exciting, fueled by the fast paced music and the flashing of dozens of cameras.

Ending Denver Fashion Week will leave you exhausted from the countless activities, but eager for the next time you can experience it all over again.

National designers

Designer: Velvet Wolf; Model: Phoenix Alden

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April 2018 | Inside Story

Designer: Hogan McLaughlin; Model: Paris Creed Photos by Henry Kweon

Paper Fashion Show

Angel by Luhi Justin (VIETNAM)

Empress of China by Paper Couture (CHINA)

Aztec Princess by Beto’s Hair Studio (MEXICO)

Nhu Vietnam Rebirth of the Dragon Lady by Denver Design Incubator and Manus Supply (VIETNAM)

Photos by Joie Ha

Denver Fashion Week | asian avenue magazine

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Bring Families Back to the Dinner Table Martial artist, rapper, chef and Catholic priest Fr. Leo Patalinghug does it all.

He’s an author of two books and one cookbook. He is on television, records podcasts and live radio shows.

By Mary Jeneverre Schultz | Follow her on Twitter and Instagram: @Jeneverre Based in Baltimore and born in the Philippines, Fr. Leo is the host of Savoring Our Faith and founder and director of Plating Grace, an international apostolate to help strengthen families and relationships through God’s gift of a family meal.

“I appreciate Fr. Leo’s message about family dinners,” said Estrellita Herreria, a devout Catholic Filipino, who discovered him watching EWTN Global Catholic Network daily.

Plating Grace It is an international food movement to bring families back to the dinner table—away from work, school, TV, games and many other things—to share a delicious meal together. This brings a sense of community and love, while nourishing the mind, body, and soul.

“The power of food is really about strengthening relationships around meal time,” said Fr. Leo, 47, in a telephone interview with Asian Avenue magazine.

Frequent family dinners make a big difference,

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April 2018 | Cover Story

according to CASAColumbia, the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University. Over the past 18 years, CASAColumbia has surveyed thousands of American teens and their parents to identify situations and circumstances that influence the risk of teen substance abuse.

“It’s a theology of food – the power of food,” Fr. Leo said.

CHEF Admittedly, he has been cooking all his life. He studied culinary art during his seminarian days. His career as a chef probably took off when he beat the world-famous Chef Bobby Flay back in 2010.

In the first episode of the seventh season of Throw Down with Bobby Flay, Fr. Leo cooked “funky” steak fajitas with “holy guacamole” in the challenge and won the competition.

“The challenge scared me to death because I didn’t know what was happening,” said Fr. Leo, who shared behind the scenes stories of the 10-year an-

“The power of food is really about strengthening relationships around meal time.”

- Father Leo Patalinghug

niversary of the taping.

The segment included friendly banter between Fr. Leo and Flay about adding holy water as the key ingredient to the entrée. The judges sampled both dishes blindfolded. Interested foodies can buy the episode for only $2.99 by visiting Fr. Leo’s website.

He claims cooking is a personal hobby. “For me, it’s just fun,” Fr. Leo said. “Cooking is just simple fun.”

When he’s not cooking, he enjoys family fun with lots of laughter, socializing, solo traveling, and watching movies such as mysteries, coming of age, and good over evil genres—activities he doesn’t get to do often.

EWTN’s Savoring Our Faith The idea of cooking came to him on 9/11. Fr. Leo admitted the idea of a show featuring a cooking priest seemed absurd. Rumors were flying around his diocese that the idea could turn into a television show. Even a cardinal encouraged him to pursue this adventure.

Developed after the cooking competition with Chef Bobby Flay, Fr. Leo shares his cooking tips and recipes with cable/satellite television viewers, who enjoy watching a culinary show with a Catholic perspective on the Eternal Word Television Net-

work, more commonly known by its initials EWTN, an American television network which presents around-the-clock Catholic-themed programming.

“People enjoy it because it’s a different feel from a typical EWTN program,” said Fr. Leo, adding the show features local restaurants, friends, colleagues and family from around the Baltimore area. The format includes cooking in families’ homes, sharing recipes, and providing advice on eating together as a family. Check your cable or satellite provider for listings.

Fan favorites include episodes when he returns to his hometown of Baltimore and joins his parents in the kitchen to prepare some Filipino favorites. In fact, his mom was his first teacher on cooking.

Fr. Leo took cooking a step further as a way to evangelize the Catholic faith. “It’s a unique way to talk about the Eucharist because food is sacramental. I can’t give the Eucharist to everyone but I can give them a plate of food,” Fr. Leo said.

He has filmed the show in the Philippines and Italy. He also added his fan base included the elderly and home-schooled moms. He also receives emails from an international audience from countries such as Croatia, Hungary, Poland and England.

Fr. Leo wants his fans to walk away from his show Father Leo Patalinghug | asian avenue magazine

15

as family. “I want them to walk away content that they have been served and are hungry to do more,” he said. “This movement isn’t about being served but getting up and serving somebody else.”

He criticized the modern world by saying “we as a community are not serving others.” For example, he shared it’s awkward for people to have dinner with him. It feels normal to see the priest at the head of the table calling the shots. “It’s awkward for them to see a priest serving them and clearing the dishes.”

Catholic Filipino Priest As a priest member of a community of consecrated life, Voluntas Dei (translated as the Will of God), he is invited all over the United States to participate in Catholic conferences and Steubenville Youth Conferences to promote the importance of not what appears on the table, but who gathers around it. He recently was one of the speakers at the LA Congress for the Lenten season, the period preceding Easter that in the Christian Church is devoted to fasting, abstinence, and penitence in commemoration of Christ’s fasting in the wilderness.

He is also open to speaking engagements; local Filipino organizations can send a personal invitation to Fr. Leo. He was one of the keynote speakers for the Catechetical Congress 2016, hosted by the

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April 2018 | Cover Story

Archdiocese of Denver.

He is constantly evangelizing his message. “It’s not a beauty pageant answer. It’s Jesus.” He shared his knowledge of how Jesus intertwined his faith message around food.

Fr. Leo’s hospitality of “come to the table” brings out his Filipino traits. He is the youngest of five siblings. His father, a physician, immigrated to the United States settling in Maryland because he thought it meant “Mary’s Land.”

“No one is a stranger at my home,” admits Fr. Leo. “It’s a mess, we’re all on top of each other and no one wants to leave.”

As a Filipino, he believes the family unit stays close to their roots. “The Filipinos have an amazing culture and a lot to offer to the world,” he said. “We know how to celebrate our faith and food with the Filipino fiesta.”

Jokingly, Fr. Leo shared his last name, Patalinghug, in Cebu (southern part of the Philippines) means “Lord Have Mercy,” or “Spare Me, Oh Lord.”

Founder of nonprofit organization Fr. Leo founded The Table Foundation, a nonprofit social enterprise that uses “the power of food” to educate, inspire, serve and feed communities. Its apprentice and formation program provides res-

“This movement isn’t about being served but getting up and serving somebody else.”

- Father Leo Patalinghug idence for four apprentices between six months to a year of intensive practical food service training and personal support. Outreach groups include ex-convicts and former inmates returning to society. Those who graduate from the program can potentially earn full-time employment at one of the foundation’s local restaurants.

“It’s a unique formation program helping others get back their lives,” Fr. Leo said, adding it is the first one in Baltimore. “We’re building bridges rather than barriers.”

Author Fr. Leo is also a best-selling author. His books include: Epic Food Fight: A Bite-Sized History of Salvation In this book, Fr. Leo shares profound truths with humor in a way that appeals to a wide cross-section of Catholics. He explains how dining together builds stronger families to probe more deeply into the theological aspects of food. He refers a lot to the example of Jesus Christ, whose miracles often involved food.

Grace Before Meals Cookbook Filled with recipes, the cookbook guides diners to celebrate family and food in ways that will nourish both the body and the soul.

Spicing Up Married Life: Satisfying Couples’ Hunger for True Love With 12 chapters, this book is designed to guide couples through monthly discussions of their marriage. Starting with “Love at First Sight,” and ended with “Til Death Do Us Part.” Other memorable chapters include focusing on the proposal, the wedding day and even the in-laws in between.

Social Media Feeds Up to date with the latest technology, you can find Fr. Leo on YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and more. See the sidebar for all the links. He even creates podcasts to share his philosophy of Plating Grace. He is accessible to anyone who wants to reach out to him about his international movement.

He urges his fans to sign up for his weekly emails to stay on top of his current projects.

For example, viewers can access his homilies, interviews and conference sessions through YouTube just by searching for his name.

To stay updated, Fr. Leo and his team rebranded his website in recent months. Formerly Grace Before Meals, it is now called Plating Grace. He shared recipes such as Tuna Melt, Ground Lamb, Beef Wellington, Falafel, Smoked Salmon Wrap, Reibekuchen (Potato Pancakes from Germany), Tilapia Francese, just to name a few. It’s not just Filipino dishes but cuisines from all over the world.

International Pilgrimages Fr. Leo talked about joining Chefs for Peace, an ecumenical group of Jewish, Christian and Muslim chefs committed to exploring cultural identity, diversity and coexistence through food. He expanded this concept to offering trips around the world.

In fact, this year, he is scheduled for a Danube River Cruise, including Prague and a separate pilgrimage to the Holy Land and Jordan, both in June. He deep dives into the culture, which includes religious, historical and food factoids. In October, he is planning for a food and faith excursion in Italy.

“It’s not just religious. It’s education like no one has ever experienced,” promises Fr. Leo. These inspiration trips will not only leave the traveler with memories to last a lifetime and a new Father Leo Patalinghug | asian avenue magazine

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Follow Father Leo on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/FatherLeoFeeds or Twitter at: twitter.com/fatherleofeeds appreciation for the tastes of another culture, but gives a renewed and awakened faith.

Advice Humbled by fans, friends, family and colleagues, Fr. Leo advised to “learn from mistakes, including failed recipes.” He also shared to go outside your boundaries.

“Eat everything and anything,” said Fr. Leo, who adds to eat food with an experience.

Future Plans He plans to release a new book titled Saving Your Family. He is still in the middle of negotiations with a fifth book.

The podcast called Shoot the Shitake with Fr. Leo should be out this spring. He shared the podcast would be a little edgy, including interviews with ex-priests, transgender individuals, gay and lesbian people, politicians of different backgrounds, and even exorcists.

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April 2018 | Cover Story

He admitted he started his education in journalism and wanted an opportunity to talk and learn about the “many walks of life.”

Discussions of expanding his television show, Savoring Our Faith, might lead into an international broadcast feed because of his recognizable face even without his clergy clothes. More episodes will be added plus a “whole bunch of video projects.”

How does he do it all?

He explained he honors his “Sundays.” He does so by spending the day with his family and friends.

In exchange, his free day energizes him to take his projects one hundred percent and above for the rest of the week.

“I take the Sabbath seriously. I practice what I preach,” Fr. Leo said. “I make sure I make time to nurture by taking care of myself.”

He loves his sleep. He shared, “God, I’m going to sleep now. You take care of it.”

Sunday is a day of rest in most Western countries, as part of the weekend. For most observant Christians, Sunday is observed as a day of worship and rest, holding it as the Lord’s Day and the day of Christ’s resurrection. It restores hearts, minds, and bodies in this frenzied world.

He admits to having fun all the time by sharing this tidbit.

“If it’s boring, I do not want any part of it. I’ve lived my life being bored to death in church,” Fr Leo said.

“Life is too short. Make it beautiful, delicious and digestible.”

---------------------------------------------------Mary Jeneverre Schultz, who watches Savoring Our Faith religiously, is looking forward to a Colorado visit

by Fr. Leo.

chicken Stir Fry with rice Noodles

Chicken Stir Fry with Rice Noodles is an easy and delicious weeknight meal loaded with healthy ingredients. A one-pan, 30 minute chicken stir fry recipe.

INGREDIENTS • 12 oz rice noodles • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil • 1 lb (2 medium) skinless boneless chicken breasts, sliced into strips • salt and black pepper to taste • 1 red bell pepper, sliced • 1 cup broccoli, chopped • 4 oz shiitake mushroom, sliced • 1 tablespoon peeled and shredded fresh ginger • 1/2 cup chicken broth • 2 tablespoons soy sauce • 2 tablespoons ketchup • 1 teaspoon cornstarch • drizzle of sesame oil

directions 1. Bring medium size pan of salted water to a boil. Add noodles and cook them on medium heat for about 2 to 4 minutes (depending on thickness of noodles), or until barely tender.

2. Drain and stir in 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.

3. In a large wok or skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over high heat.

Season chicken lightly with

salt and pepper and place it into hot skillet and stir-fry for about 3 minutes or until just cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

4. Add bell peppers, broccoli and mushrooms and saute 1 minute then add ginger to the skillet and stir-fry for another 2 minutes.

5. In a mixing bowl combine chicken stock, soy sauce,

ketchup and cornstarch.

6. Add chicken, noodles, and broth mixture to the skillet and stir-fry for 3 minutes or until chicken is hot and fully cooked through.

7. Right before serving, drizzle sesame oil and season to taste with salt and pepper as desired. Grab a fork and enjoy!

Source: natashaskitchen.com Chef’s Menu | asian avenue magazine

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The Tomb Sweeping Festival [Qingming Jie]

By Amy Ng

Offerings for the ancestors are an important part the Qingming Jie. Families bring foods, teas, and incense to the gravesite to honor their loved ones.

Filial piety, to show respect and care for parents, is one of the most important virtues in Chinese culture, and the traditional belief is that the spirits of one’s ancestors watch over and protect the family.

Qingming Jie (清明节), also known as Tomb Sweeping Festival, is one of two Chinese festivals that honor and pay respect to the dead. The festival usually lands on either April 4 or 5, with this year occurring on April 5, 2018. One of the most important aspects of this day is paying respects to ancestors at their grave sites.

In the olden days, bodies of the deceased were usually buried pretty far from the villages that families lived in. So traditionally, family members would have to make a special trip to visit the graves of their loved ones. Those who go to pay respects sweep and clear the grave of any weeds, and add new soil to the tomb.

Offerings for the ancestors are another important part the festival. Families bring foods, teas, and incense, as well as “ghost money” which is burned to be received by the deceased in the afterlife. This festival is not only for honoring ancestors, but also a way to ensure that their spirits are well taken care of in the afterlife.

Qingming Jie is a holiday that celebrates both death and life. Along with giving respect to those who have passed, oth-

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April 2018 | Cultural Tidbits

er customs surrounding this holiday include flying kites and enjoying the beginning of the spring season. Some people also carry willow braches, or tie them to gates or to their front doors—the willows are believed to ward off evil spirits that wander the living plane during this day.

The Tomb Sweeping Festival has changed tremendously over the thousands of years it was celebrated, especially after the Chinese Revolution in 1949, where celebrating the festival was banned because it was linked to outdated, un-revolutionary customs. However, the festival was reinstated as a national holiday in 2008, and has recently seen a resurgence in celebration.

Today, there are even fake phones and other paper gadgets that can be burned as offerings, with the idea that those beyond the grave would also want the luxuries of technology.

This holiday is interwoven with legend and history, and it was once known as Hanshi Jie (寒食节—Cold Food Festival).

The festival was said to have originated in remembrance of Jie Zitui, a nobleman from the Spring and Autumn period in China’s history. His master was a prince of the Jin state who went into exile because of political struggles. During his exile, the prince faced many hardships and famine, and at one point was even worried that he and his followers would starve to death. During an especially difficult time, the loyal Jie Zitui

is said to have secretly cut off a piece of flesh from his thigh, made a stew from his meat, and served it to his prince and followers—saving them all from starvation.

When the prince regained power years later, he generously awarded all of his loyal followers except for Jie Zitui—he was either accidentally passed over by the prince or he declined any award for his service. He then retired to a forested mountain with his elderly mother.

Years later, someone reminded the prince of meat stew that Jie Zitui had made for him, and the prince was embarrassed that he had forgotten his loyal follower. The prince searched the mountains for the nobleman, but had no success.

Finally, the prince ordered the forest to be set on fire, thinking that it would force Jie Zitui and his mother out. Instead, Jie Zitui and his mother died in the fire. Overcome with regret, the prince erected a tomb for Jie Zitui and ordered that no fires could be lit on the day that the nobleman died, so only

cold foods could be eaten.

There are still traditional treats that are served specially for this holiday. One of the most popular snacks is the qingtuan (青团), or sweet green rice balls, that are usually stuffed with sweet red bean paste and dyed a crisp green with vegetable juice. Other common dishes include peach blossom porridge and Qingming snails. Following the tradition of Hanshi Jie, many of these dishes are prepared in advance and are eaten cold during the festival.

Although most people no longer make harrowing treks across mountain roads to visit their ancestors, this festival is still an opportunity to remember and honor those who have passed.

Even though you might not have the opportunity to set up a whole feast and to burn stacks of ghost paper for your ancestors, take a moment to remember a loved one and honor them in thought.

“Ghost money,” or joss paper, is burned on Qingming Jie so it can be received by the deceased in the afterlife. Paper representations of clothing, electronics and household goods are also commonly burned.

One of the most popular snacks is the qingtuan, or sweet green rice balls, that are usually stuffed with sweet red bean paste and dyed a crisp green with vegetable juice.

Sources: • www.travelchinaguide.com/essential/holidays/qingming.htm • www.chinahighlights.com/festivals/qingming-festival.htm • www.ancient-origins.net/news-history-archaeology/myths-legends-and-traditions-chinese-tomb-sweeping-day-001528 • www.discoverhongkong.com/us/see-do/events-festivals/chinese-festivals/ching-ming-festival.jsp The Tomb Sweeping Festival | asian avenue magazine

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AsAm

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Asian Americans Are at Higher Risk for Stroke

High Rate of 40 Percent of AAPI Depression Among Elders Are Victims Asian Seniors of Fraud

Published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, a recent study analyzed death records for the six largest Asian American subgroups: Asian Indian, Chinese, Filipino, Japanese, Korean and Vietnamese. Together, these subgroups make up 84% of the Asians in the United States.

After comparing U.S. death rates from 2003–2010, researchers found that stroke and high blood pressure were more common among every Asian American subgroup compared to non-Hispanic Whites. Compared to Whites, Asian Indians and Filipino men also had greater mortality from coronary artery disease—a condition that occurs when the heart’s arteries narrow, often due to the plaque build-up on the arterial walls.

Based on these findings, the authors highlight the need to direct specific treatment and prevention efforts to reduce health disparities in the Asian American population. If Asian Americans face greater risk of hypertension and stroke, it’s important to address these risk factors to prevent complications and improve outcomes.

Asian Americans have difficulty seeking a diagnosis and treatment for depression, but the problem is particularly dire among seniors. Data collated from various studies show that elderly Asian women have a more than double suicide rate to that of white women.

Specific barriers faced by elderly Asian Americans include language barriers, financial hardship, discrimination, cultural barriers, and social isolation.

The biggest of all these risks is undoubtedly depression, which is currently the most prevalent mental condition faced

by American seniors. For instance, almost 45% of Korean elders are currently battling depression, followed by 20% Japanese, and 18% Chinese in this age group, to name a few.

Family members might consider suggesting that their elderly loved ones adopt important lifestyle changes such as consuming a healthy diet, obtaining a good night’s sleep, and taking part in mindfulness based activities such as yoga, Tai Chi and meditation, which numerous studies have shown to lower levels of stress hormones linked to anxiety and depression.

April 2018 | National News

The AARP issued an important alert for those who care for an aging senior and for those under their care.

Nearly 40% of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) age 50 and older report that they or their family members have been victimized by fraud schemes.

Additionally, one-third of victims lost $15,000 on average. Non-financial costs are even more widespread, with most fraud victims (72 percent) experiencing some sort of emotional, physical or mental health impact, including anger, stress and anxiety, difficulty sleeping and shame.

AARP offers advice on dealing with the non-financial impact of fraud, including: Understand you are not alone and that it’s not unusual to experience feelings of anger, shame and embarrassment.

Re-channel those feelings into action.

Volunteer to help educate others about fraud. Share tips with family and friends.

AARP urges people who have lost money to a scammer to report it immediately to the consumer credit bureaus and credit card companies if a charge card was involved. Victims should also report scams to the Federal Trade Commission and their state Attorney General’s office.

Source: asamnews.com

m NEWS Asian Americans Star In Leading Roles In New ‘Hamilton’ Tour Asian American actors Joseph Morales, Shoba Narayan, and Marcus Choi are filling leading roles in the second national tour of the hit musical Hamilton.

Morales (middle) who is Hawaiian will star as Alexander Hamilton in the hip-hop musical beginning in Seattle on February 6. he currently plays the alternate of Alexander Hamilton in the musical’s Chicago production alongside Asian Americans Ari Asfar and Jin Ha. Narayan (left) will be playing Eliza Hamilton, the musical’s leading female role, which was originated by Chinese American actress Phillipa Soo. Choi (right) will be playing George Washington, a prominent supporting role. The role has never been played by an Asian American man.

Three Asians Win Oscars Remember Me, a song from Disney-Pixar’s Coco, won the Best Song Oscar for songwriters Robert Lopez and his wife, Kristen Anderson-Lopez. Lopez won an Oscar for Let It Go from Frozen as Best Song in 2014, becoming the first Filipino American to do so. Lopez is the only person to win a EGOT (Emmy Awards, Grammy Awards, Oscar Awards and Tony Awards) twice.

Kazuhiro Tsuji accepted the award for Makeup and Hairstyling for his work in The Darkest Hour, a story of Winston Churchill.

Two New Asian American Series on Netflix The Asian American female owned production company, Thirsty Tiger Television, will soon have two shows streaming on Netflix. In Eat Your Words, contestants who have written negative restaurant reviews will be checked their culinary skills by cooking for a panel of judges who score them on a five star scale.

“In the age of social media anyone who goes to a restaurant thinks they’re a food expert, and they’re happy to broadcast their picky opinions all over the internet,” says host Kara Birkenstock.

If contestants receive at least three stars, they receive a restaurant gift certificate.

However, if they fail to do this, they must “eat their words” and rewrite their nega-

tive review.

In terms of contestants and judges, over half of the cast is Asian American.

The premise of The Doll Life is perhaps a little more niche, but still appealing to those who don’t follow the doll-inspired Japanese street fashion that the show focuses on.

The diverse cast of The Doll Life also includes African and Latino Americans, many of whom have been subjected to a slew of harassment on social media. Commenters often call Ashford, who is an African American model, the N-word and question why she would be interested in Japanese fashion. They also often accuse Cyril Lumboy, the Filipino American fashion designer, of lightening her skin, which she does not do.

AsAm News | asian avenue magazine

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bookreview Sophia of Silicon Valley Author: Anna Yen Price: $26.99 | Available for Sale: April 10, 2018 ISBN: 9780062673015 | Publisher: William Morrow Website: www.annayen.net Connect with Anna at: facebook.com/annayenauthor twitter.com/_anna_yen www.instagram.com/anna_yen

Reviewed by Mary Jeneverre Schultz Follow her on Twitter and Instagram: @Jeneverre Curious about the fast-paced professional world of Silicon Valley, this book allows readers to peak into the high-tech world. From working 80-hour weeks to job hunting after spending two years too long at a company, this book mirrors the experiences of author Anna Yen, who spearheaded Investor Relations for industry leaders such as Tesla Motors, Market Watch, and Pixar Animation Studios.

Not quite a biography, Yen shares great humor and interesting happenings as a Chinese American, wanting to make her mark in the world during her 20s.

It’s hard to put the book down. Readers will feel like something else will happen just around the corner.

During the early aughts, Yen worked for modern luminaries, including Steve Jobs and Elon Musk. Sophia of Silicon Valley is inspired by her time spent as a woman in cutthroat, male-dominated workspaces.

Like Sheryl Sandberg and her #GirlBoss contemporaries, Yen catalogs the ups and downs of burning the candle from both ends in the name of innovation —and, moreover, she lays out what it takes to succeed in this world as a woman.

This book should really serve as a manual for those wanting to pursue a career in high-tech or corporate world. However, Sophia of Silicon Valley isn’t a how-to guide or a checklist of dos and don’t’s; it’s a laughout-loud story, drawn directly from the author’s own rich experiences that readers will find as educational as it is inspiring, incisive and touching.

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April 2018 | Book Review

Sophia Young, the main character, is the daughter of successful Chinese immigrants, saddled with a bad case of diabetes, a smart mouth, and an unstoppable “nothing-is-impossible” attitude. She’s always spoken her mind and in Silicon Valley that turns out to be her greatest asset – especially when she’s often the only woman in a room. As fictionalized companies modeled after Apple, Google, and Tesla are beginning to revolutionize the world, Sophia lucks into a job that puts her directly in the path of Scott Kraft, the eccentric founder of a groundbreaking software company and CEO of an animated film studio that is transforming the art.

As Scott’s right-hand woman, the incorrigibly outspoken Sophia is in the eye of the storm—a thrilling and terrifying position that challenges her, threatens her relationships and even her health, yet ultimately teaches her how to take charge of her own future. But when engineer and inventor Andre Stark hires her to run investor relations for his company, Sophia starts to question whether the big paycheck and high-status career are worth living in a boy’s’club gone bad.

For those aspiring to land a tech job or career in Corporate America, pick up this book before you commit 1/3 of your life to this world. It’s a great eye-opener for those who want to make an impact in their young 20s.

Mary Jeneverre Schultz has worked in nonprofit for the last 20 years.

Asian Avenue: What inspired you to write this novel?

Anna Yen: The idea for the book was inspired by two things. First, Steve Jobs had passed away and a lot of things were being written and produced about him that I didn’t find to be accurate (or fair). So in a way, the novel is a reaction to me being defensive of Steve. I wanted to show the world there were many sides to the man whom the world seemed to revere… and villainize at the same time. He was actually an incredible mentor and role model if you knew how to listen, observe and absorb. Same thing is true for Elon Musk - a man I worked with as well so he also inspired the book.

But what really put me over the edge to write the book was that I had just been diagnosed with a recurrence of cancer, so I had the mindset, “What is my legacy?” I have young nieces and nephews, and I wanted to be sure that if I left this world that I would leave something behind for them that showed them what their aunt did in this world and the lessons she learned. So the book is just as much an homage to people who shaped me as it is a guidebook for the next generation of “Yens.” Have an opinion, be persistent, laugh at yourself, think in six minute increments, don’t be afraid of anything!

Asian Avenue: What do you want readers to walk away from after reading this novel?

Anna Yen: First and foremost, I want readers to find some sort of inspiration in the book, whether in their personal or professional lives. There is so much I tried to share with readers that I think are important to helping people thrive every day. I also want readers to laugh and enjoy the book, of course.

Asian Avenue: What are some of your future projects?

Anna Yen: I’m very involved with UCSF Cancer Research. I’d

love to see “Sophia” on the big (or little) screen, and I’m always thinking about whether I will be a one trick pony or whether I have another book idea in me. Oh, I have a full-time job, too.

q&a with Anna Yen

Asian Avenue: What are your hobbies/interests?

Anna Yen: I am a big believer in being good to myself and sometimes that means a spa day, sometimes that means time with my family and very often it involves a hip-hop class.

Asian Avenue: Is there anything else you want to share?

Anna Yen: There’s a story behind how the book got written.

When I became serious about the idea, I was certain I’d find a ghost writer since I’m not a writer. I naively thought, “Oh, what about Amy Tan? She’s local and Chinese – she would be great!” So I looked on her website and the only contact information was for her agent, Sandy Dijkstra. Being as bold as I am (having been taught that it never hurts to ask), I emailed Sandy and asked if Amy Tan would write my book. THE Amy Tan! Sandy responded that she liked the idea and to send her a summary. When I did, she said that my writing was fine and that I should try writing it. So I started writing, all the while, still looking for a writer. Bottom line is that I never did find that writer AND I got myself Amy Tan’s agent!

What do you want to tell your fans?

Anna

Yen: Say what you think.

Just spit it out. It’s not always easy and can sometimes get you in trouble, but I think it’s far better to be honest than political. People may not agree but they will respect you more at the end of the day.

Sophia of Silicon Valley | asian avenue magazine

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asian pacific development center celebrates spring banquet

Left to Right: Trong Lam (President, Pacific Ocean Marketplace), Congressman Mike Coffman, Jerry Chang (Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Denver Director General), Lily Shen (Vice Chair of Board, Asian Pacific Development Center, Ines Tok (Senior Vice President, Citywide Bank), Sue and Jess Vasquez, Lloyd and Rosemary Herrera.

With over 150 attendees, the Asian Pacific Development Center (APDC) raised more than $20,000 in donations at the organization’s spring banquet on March 10 at Kings Land Chinese Seafood Restaurant in Denver.

“APDC cannot do this by ourselves. This is a chance to acknowledge the heroes in our community,” said executive director Harry Budisidharta.

During the dinner, APDC honored board member Tony Oum, community partner Randy Stith, Ph.D., and staff member Mikako Bonath.

Oum, senior vice president at FirstBank, volunteers for the Cambodian Buddhist of Colorado, SouthWest Improvement Council (SWIC), Aurora Mental Health Center (AuMHC), and Jefferson Housing Corporation (JHC). He joined APDC in 2009 as he wanted to give back to the immigrant and refugee community. He worked with fellow board members to create a plant that would keep APDC alive to continue to provide much needed services to Colorado’s Asian community.

During his speech, Oum shared, “It has been an honor to meet so many donors and staff involved in this work.”

APDC honored Randy Stith, Ph.D, who served as the executive director for the Aurora Mental Health Center since 1978. After 40 years of service, he announced his intention to retire from this

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April 2018 | On Scene

position in January 2018.

“What a partnership for Aurora,” Stith said. “Refugees are struggling. With stabilization, we are all better off to strengthening the community.”

Then, APDC honored one of its staff members, Mikako Bonath.

Recognized for her strong work ethic and positive attitude, she was voted by her peers as the 2018 Staff Member of the Year.

“I have enjoyed working at APDC and working in the community,” said Bonath in her acceptance speech.

Budisdharta continued to share his personal story of moving to the United States at 12 years old when the Indonesian government was collapsing. He indicated the evening’s performances were a way to give tribute to those who immigrated from other Asian countries.

Performances included Maria Cheng and Peter Trinh of Theatre Esprit Asia.

Cheng performed a segment from Antecedents while Trinh performed Boat Person. Meta Sarmiento, a Filipino poet and rapper from Guam, served as emcee and shared his cultural identity through one of his rap sessions.

Event sponsors included Allstate, Aurora Mental Health Center, The Colorado Trust, Citywide Banks, FirstBank, Lau and Choi, P.C., Mental Health Center of Denver, MillerCoors, Nelnet, Pacific Ocean Marketplace and Rose of Sharon.

Above Photo: Maria Cheng, Harry Budisidharta, Meta Sarmiento

Denver Asian American Pacific Islander Commission introduces its first report

By Mary Jeneverre Schultz Last February 28, the Denver Asian American Pacific Islander Commission (DAAPIC) released its first report, Finding Common Ground: A Report on Denver’s Asian American Pacific Islander Communities during its launch party at Mile High United Way. Many thanks to Kokoro Restaurant for its generous food donation and to Mile High United Way in providing the reception area at

its offices for this special event.

The report contains feedback from community organizations during a listening session that was conducted

by DAAPIC members in 2017. Nearly thirty Asian American Pacific Islander serving organizations gave testimony on the below focus areas: • Healthcare • Youth and education • Legal and/or Immigration • Economic development “The listening session provided an important opportunity for DAAPIC to hear from diverse stakeholders about the gaps and strengths in the AAPI community. Overwhelmingly, we heard about the need to disaggregate data to better understand needs and experiences of specific ethnic groups, improve access to language services,

Download the report at: bit.ly/DAAPICReport and coordinate efforts and information for our community,” said DAAPIC Chairwoman Rachele C. Espiritu.

Recommendations were addressed

by DAAPIC in a three-hour strategic planning session. Espiritu facilitated this meeting among the commissioners to prioritize and plan for 2018 goals, using the recommendations from the report as a guide.

The Commission will have direct action items in response to the report in the next few months.

Find updates on DAAPIC by liking www.facebook.com/DAAPIC or by visiting bit.ly/DAAPIC. -----------------------------------------------Mary Jeneverre Schultz began her appointment as a commissioner for DAAPIC last February 2018. Follow her on Twitter @Jeneverre.

Mile High Happenings | asian avenue magazine

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Dead Sea Scrolls Exhibit entices curious Christians, interested historians and hopeful archaeologists

By Mary Jeneverre Schultz

As the fifth metropolitan city in the U.S. to host the traveling exhibit of the Dead Sea Scrolls, Denver will be its last stop before heading back to its home in Israel.

For many Coloradans, this regional premier will offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see authentic Dead Sea Scrolls, ancient manuscripts that include the oldest known biblical documents dating back over 2,000 years. Organized by the Israeli Antiquities Authority IAA), the Dead Sea Scrolls arrived in time of Easter and spring break for many families.

Displayed at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science (DMNS), the Dead Sea Scrolls “touches humanity,” said Robert Payo, DMNS teacher programs coordinator. “It is a reflective exhibit.”

Whether it is Christianity, walking the lands of the Bible, or just in awe of history, Payo indicates everyone loves to share how the Dead Sea Scrolls is important to their lives.

One way is the Christianity and spiritual aspects. In Asia, the Philippines remains the bastion of Christianity with 86.8 million Filipinos adhering to the teachings of Jesus Christ, according to a recent study by the US-based Pew Research Center.

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April 2018 | On Scene

The Dead Sea scrolls were found in Qumran Caves near the Dead Sea in 1946 when a Bedouin shepherd boy was trying to retrieve one of his goats. The scrolls are divided into three categories: 1. Copies of Hebrew writings 2. Community writings 3. Community sect The scrolls are dramatically presented in a massive exhibit case featuring carefully regulated individual chambers and full English translations. In addition, more than 500 artifacts from the ancient Middle East will immerse guests in historic traditions and beliefs that continue to impact world cultures today.

The authentic objects include inscriptions and seals, weapons, stone carvings, terra cotta figurines, remains of religious symbols, coins, shoes, textiles, mosaics, ceramics, jewelry, and a three-ton stone from the Western Wall in Jerusalem, believed to have fallen in 70 CE. Limited attendance is allowed into the temporary exhibit. The first stop include the story of how the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered, description of the environment and the significance of these fragile scrolls. Museum-goers then enter a

room using an IPad to start from the present time and moving back in time in 100year increments.

Even with huge crowds, the area feels like walking in a church or synagogue—a reverent silence with whisperings here and there. Through the timelines, historians can count that Jerusalem has been conquered more than 40 times.

“It is a crossroad for all cultures,” said Payo, who informed to check out the coins, inkwells and writings tools are definitive markers of time.

Timed tickets are required and advance reservations encouraged. Guests pay $25.95 adult, $21.95 senior (age 65+), $17.95 student (ages 3 – 18 or with a student ID), which includes general admission. Visit dmns.org/deadseascrolls or call 303-370-6000.

Wanderlusters and tourists plan for their next vacation after the Travel show

By Mary Jeneverre Schultz The Denver Travel & Adventure Show at the Colorado Convention Center offered vacation destinations in its second year. It is the only travel show in the West, showcasing hundreds of captivating worldwide destinations from India to the Caribbean to Colorado drive vacations.

This experiential event on March 24 and 25 had three inspirational and informative seminar stages (Travel Theater, Destination Theater, Savvy Traveler Theater), and culture and entertainment abound on the Taste of Travel Stage and Global Beats Stage offering dozens of culinary demos and dance performances.

Travel celebrities Rick Steves and Jack Maxell were featured speakers of the show, along with Peter Greenberg, Emmy Award-winning investigative reporter and producer for CBS News Travel.

After session talks, featured speakers provided a time and space to talk with their fans, take photographs and ask questions about their career.

Rick Steves, travel writer abd host of

Rick Steves Europe and Travel with Rick Steves, shared travel tips such as taking one luggage and backpack when traveling through Europe because it’s easier to walk faster from train to bus and through airports. He indicated it’s not popular advice among female travelers but in the long run it’s the way to go.

While Steves shared some of his travel adventures, Jack Maxwell of Travel Channel’s Booze Traveler confessed he has traveled to 40 countries in four years, adding stories about Taiwan, Mongolia, Tahiti, and Norway, to name a few.

Greenberg got down to the basics of travel by telling his fans that the best way to get first-class treatment from hotel staff is to contact the reservation manager directly and ask for the best rate. Then, after securing the reservation, send a personal thank you note to the reservation manager. It is a great way for hotel guests to be memorable.

In securing airline reservations, Greenberg advised to clear cookies from the computer before and after

an Internet search. He promised flight prices would not increase if travelers were diligent in clearing cookies from the computer system.

Steves conducted sessions that included information about Europe, his travel adventures in hosting a series and other basic information in securing airlines and cruise vacation. For example, he shared that the best cruise prices are interior cabins because vacations are not spent inside a cabin but outside exploring the ports.

The convention center was packed with those planning their next vacation destination, whether a cruise, safari or escorted tour. During its peak time, people were packed into the area like sardines in a can. Lines circled around popular booths of Asia, Caribbean and African destinations.

If you missed this year’s travel show, visit travelshows.com for other shows around the U.S. or sign up for the newsletter on next year’s dates.

Follow Mary Jeneverre Schultz’s travels in the Philippines at jeneverrestravels. wordpress.com.

Rick Steves | Photo Credit: Denver Travel & Adventure Show

Jack Maxwell Photo Credit: Jeannette Herreria

Philippines Exhibit Photo Credit: Jeannette Herreria

Mile High Happenings | asian avenue magazine

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‘Visualize into Reality’ workshop empowers asian pacific islander (API) women The 501c3 educational nonprofit organization, Platform (www.platform4women.org), all started with a vision to mentor potential women leaders for their communities.

When I encountered a number of extremely bright young women at Seoul Women’s University who were without direction and guidance, I envisioned developing a women’s center. And now several years later, 15 registrants participated in a three-day workshop, Visualize into Reality on March 21-23 led by seven facilitators at Red Rocks Community College in Lakewood, CO. But the vision was not realized overnight. It was a rollercoaster ride of finding the right people to form the team of directors and facilitators. Through a series of interviews conducted with over 32 women who were Asian Pacific Islander (API) and/or working in API nonprofit organizations, we were able to select the most qualified women for three workshops: self-empowerment, target community, and intersectional-ity of oppression (www.platform4women.org/new-cover-page-1).

These facilitators were compassionate, passionate, and experienced visionaries in their communities. They, as a team, crafted effective workshops for several months, even through the winter holidays. Yes, during their vaca-

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April 2018 | On Scene

tion time.

I was and am still amazed by their commitment to the project which is to build our communities through the leadership of women.

While the leadership was comprised primarily of API women, the workshops were open to everyone. This was intentional.

First, we wanted to expose our nonAPI participants to the API experience in nonprofit. Second, we wanted everyone to see the leadership of API women. Third, we wanted a diverse group which would make the conversations more meaningful.

Since the workshops were more discussion oriented, everyone was able to share their observations and stories.

By Samantha Joo Founder and Executive Director of Platform platform4women@gmail.com

We heard stories from interns, volunteers, and staff from National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, Asian Pacific Development Center, COLOR Latina, Colorado Immigrant Rights Coalition, Book Trust, Big Brothers, Big Sisters, Denver Child Advocacy Center, Evanston Center for Spiritual Wholeness and Healing, and Women of Color Leadership Project. Given the positive response, everyone seemed to have gained much from the experience.

As in all nonprofit work, this event was made possible by sponsors: Immanuel Mission Center (IMC), Janet Pak Realtor, Dae Gee, and Nonprofit Pathway at Red Rocks Community College. Without their support, we could not have realized our vision.

If you were unable to participate in this event, the next session of workshops will be in fall 2018. We will explore different methods of raising funds for people who want to start a nonprofit organization or grow their organization. We will present traditional methods of fundraising, grant proposals and soliciting donors, as well as explore creative hybrid-business models. We are excited at the prospect of bringing a group of legal advisers, business women, and nonprofit fundraisers together in one space.

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