asian avenue magazine
Connecting Cultures Linking Lives
November 2013 Volume 8 Issue 11
Single in
the city
Asian-American Bachelors and Bachelorettes
Dr. jaime yrastorza
Not For Sale Project
Because we are worth more than any price in the world
restaurant peeks A Taste of the Philippines Wasabi Roll & Go
Asian Chamber of Commerce
• whiplash pain • acute/chronic pain
2013 -- 2014 2014 COLORADO HMONG 2013
NEW YEAR C E
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Miss HCP Event ● SCHOLARSHIP AWARD! Nhu Lor 303.829.4575 nhu.lor@gmail.com www.facebook.com/misshcp
Sports Competition ● CASH PRIZE! Katao Coordinator: Wa Lue Xiong 720-254-6464 or 303-466-5238 | lxgeng@gmail.com Volleyball Coordinator: Lance Xiong 303-726-9954 lancerkid1@hotmail.com Top Spin (Tub Lub) Coordinator: Cher Bi Lor 720-261-4034 | txawjnpislauj@yahoo.com
SINCE 1992
Singing and Dancing Contest ● CASH PRIZE! Mai Choua Lee 720-445-2515 | maichoualee@hotmail.com Jan Moua 303-359-3421 | jmoua05@hotmail.com Kue Thao 303-877-0186 | kuethaoy2k@yahoo.com
Vendor: Food & Merchandise Booth Information: Nhia Neng Lor 720-620-8593 nyiajneeblauj@gmail.com
Sponsors, Help Support the Event and Promote your Business.
NOVEMBER 29, 30 & DECEMBER 1, 2013 Friday 9AM-9PM ● Saturday 9AM-11PM ● Sunday 9AM-6PM 128th Ave
e urs Golf Co
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Admission: $10.00
General Information: Kou Chang - Chairman 303-427-5442 EVENT LOCATION koucha85@yahoo.com ADAMS COUNTY Ge Wa Vang - CO-Chairman FAIRGROUND gvang@comcast.com 9755 Henderson Road, Brighton, CO 80601 Joshua Yang - Secretary 303.325.6910 jynhia@gmail.com CELEBRATING THE HMONG CULTURE
E 124th
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ASIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 2013 ANNUAL DINNER & GALA
BALL TOSSING • PERFORMING ARTS • FOOD • ARTS & CRAFTS • MEDIA WWW.HMONGCOLORADO.ORG
EAST MOON ASIAN BISTRO & SUSHI
8162 S. Holly St. Centennial, CO 80122 Tel: 303.779.9999 | www.eastmoon9.com HOURS: Mon - Sat 11AM - 9:30PM Sun: 12PM to 9:30PM
ALL YOU CAN EAT SUSHI Tuesdays Lunch $15.95 Dinner $26.95
SPECIALS FOR TWO - Monday to Thursday
$30 Sushi for two (Reg. $50) | $25 Chinese food for two (Reg. $40)
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
Dear Asian Avenue readers,
All the single ladies and all the single gentlemen have put their hands up! In our third annual ‘Singles Issue’, we feature 14 Asian-American bachelors and bachelorettes. Read more about these young people and come meet them at the Singles Mingle Mixer on Saturday, November 23rd at Go Fish Sushi and Lounge.
Last month, our annual halloween party at 1515 Bar & Lounge was a hit with more than 300 people in attendance dressed in an array of costumes. Thank you for coming out to support the magazine. We always love meeting our readers—even if dressed as minions or zombies! We also want to thank 1515 Bar & Lounge (1515barlounge.com) and its staff for hosting us and DJ Guest (djguest.org) for spinning until the lights came on.
This month, our Spotlight section recognizes a brilliant individual. My good friend Harry Budisidharta is a young attorney who has received numerous awards for his community service. Not only did he skip high school and enter college at the age of 14, he has spent the last decade giving back to the Asian and refugee communities. Congratulations to Harry on his many achievements and we thank him for continuing to elevate our Asian-American community. Another outstanding leader is Dr. Jaime Yrastorza, who received the Lifetime Achievement Award on October 12 at the 25th annual Uplift Internationale Gala. Dr. Yrastorza is the founder of Uplift Internationale, an organization that helps provide care and surgeries to children born with facial deformities. In 2011, he was also recognized as an Asian American Hero of Colorado. Learn more about him and the biography he has recently written about his life as an immigrant from the Philippines.
The “Not For Sale” project, established by Miss Asian American Colorado Thuy Trang, has kicked off! The project focuses on human and sex trafficking awareness. Thuy is selling t-shirts and tanktops to make a statement that human beings cannot be sold and that our lives are worth more than any price. Proceeds from the sales will go to The Little Rose Shelter, a refuge for young girls who are survivors of, or at risk for, abuse and trafficking in Vietnam. Please support the project by purchasing a shirt at www.missaaco.com. Next month is our Best of 2013 issue and we need your help! Please visit www.asianavenuemagazine.com to vote for the best restaurants, supermarkets and entertainment of the year. Happy Thanksgiving,
asian avenue magazine
staff & support
Publisher & Founder: Christina Yutai Guo President: Annie Guo Production Manager: Peter Bui Senior Designer: C.G. Yao Designer: Jonathan Nguyen Staff Writer: Patricia Kaowthumrong Staff Writer: Brenda Velasquez Photographer: Trang Luong Intern: Akemi Tsutsui
advisors group
Patty Coutts, Donna LaVigne, Nestor J. Mercado, Sum C. Nguyen, Alok Sarwal, Peter Warren, John Yee, Nai-Li Yee, George N. Yoshida
contributing writers
Ron Abo, Fran Campbell, Mary Jeneverre Schultz, Thuy Trang
contributing photographers Paolo Dizon, David Guo
on the cover
Introducing Asian-American bachelors and bachelorettes in the mile-high city.
Photo by David Guo Photography www.davidguophoto.com www.facebook.com/davidguophotography
subscriptions
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Annie Guo, Sailor Girl Asian Avenue magazine
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editorial 40
To submit story ideas, letters to the editor, or listings for the Events Calendar, e-mail to editor@ asianavenuemagazine.com.
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 Fax: 303.750.8488 www.asianavenuemagazine.com
Asian Avenue magazine is in association with the Colorado Asian Culture and Education Network.
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November 2013 | President’s Note
Something delicious for everyone!
Holiday Special $29 Hibachi Dinner for Two Enjoy favorite Hibachi dinners at $29 for two EVERY Sunday and Monday! House Soup & House Salad Choice of: Chicken, Calamari, Salmon, Fish Filet, Shrimp and Filet Mignon (limited quantity) Reservation required. This is an in-house special offer. Does not include tax and tips. Cannot be combined with other promotions, third party gift certificates, or Happy Hour.
NEW! Authentic Chinese dishes added to the menu!
Happy Hour 4PM – 7PM Daily
Cater your next business or holiday party with Volcano! Call for more details.
Up to 50% off on selected items (available in dining room and lounge)
Live Music on 1st and 3rd Saturdays of each month from 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm
10440 E. Arapahoe Road, Centennial, CO 80112 Tel: 303.662.8111 • www.volcanoasiancuisine.com
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Feature 18 Dr. Jaime Yrastorza receives Lifetime Achievement
Restaurant Peeks 20 A Taste of the Philippines food truck brings the
21
12
Award at 25th annual Uplift Internationale Gala
delicious taste of the islands to Denver
Salmon and jalapenos? How do you like your sushi? Customize your own sushi roll at Wasabi Roll & Go
On the Cover
Single in the City: Asian American Bachelors and Bachelorettes in Denver
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Contents
November 2013
6
Upcoming Events
Spotlight 8 Attorney Harry Budsidharta is awarded
for years of community service
8
On Scene Mile-high area events 22 TEA’s ‘99 Histories’ illustrates the multiple faces
of ‘jeong’
Japanese School of Denver hosts bazaar
23
Cindy Yan becomes the first Chinese American Miss Colorado Teen USA 2014
CAHEP provides health screenings and flu shots to hundreds of refugees across Colorado
Friendship Basketball League finishes fall season
Rising Star 9 University of Denver student C.J. de Dios
takes pride in his Filipino roots
Inside Story 10 Learn the history of the design for the Denver
Buddhist Temple Expansion Project
Giving Back 11 Not For Sale project, organized by Miss Asian
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American Colorado Thuy Trang, kicks off with anti-sex trafficking t-shirt and tanktop sales
November 2013 | Table of Contents
24 National News
23
26 Halloween Party Recap Chinese Idiom
28
Covering One’s Eyes with a Leaf
Shen Chinese Medicine
Acupuncture and Chinese medicine are safe, effective and drug-free therapies that can help address a wide variety of common ailments and problems. ACUPUNCTURE TREATS:
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For more information call 720-873-6243 or visit our website today at: www.ColoEggDonor.com William Schoolcraft, MD • Eric Surrey, MD • Debra Minjarez, MD Robert Gustofson, MD • Jennifer Brown, MD
upcoming events I Sing Beijing Film Showing Wednesday, Nov. 13, 8:45PM at Sie FilmCenter Thursday, Nov. 14, 9:30PM at UA Pavilions
Cost: $11 Denver Film Society Members; $13 General Public | $12 Student/Senior Purchase tickets at www.denverfilm.org. During I SING BEIJING’s first year, double Academy Award-winning director, Allan Miller traveled to China and spend five weeks filming the program to create an impressive and historic documentary film. In 1983, Hao Jiang Tian, born in Maoist China, traveled to Denver to pursue his dream of a career singing Western-style opera. Nearly 30 years later, Tian returned to Beijing with a group of 20 young opera singers from around the world, to train them to sing in the difficult tonal language of Mandarin. This heartwarming documentary chronicles the efforts of Tian and his team of coaches and master teachers from New York’s Metropolitan Opera and top music conservatories in China.
Yes, taiko is just as much fun to play as it looks come try it for yourself with U.S. taiko pioneer Toni Yagami! This basic taiko workshop will include: warm-up exercises, an overview of taiko history in Japan and the U.S., stance/kata, playing techniques, kuchi showa (for remembering patterns), basic rhythms and much more! Everyone (ages 9+) is welcome and we will work with you at your pace your level of involvement is up to you. The goal is to help you experience taiko and the joy that playing it can bring!
Colorado Hmong New Year Celebration
ai kuwabara trio project Concert
Weekend of Nov. 29 to Dec. 1 Begins at 9AM each day
Monday, Nov. 18, Begins at 7:30PM
Kenneth King Academic & Performing Arts Center, Metropolitan State University of Denver 855 Lawrence Way | Denver, CO 80204 Cost: Free admission Contact Shunsuke Ono at 303-534-1151 x5332 or e-mail shunsuke.ono@mofa.go.jp.
Asian Chamber of Commerce Dinner and Gala Friday, Nov. 15, 5PM to 9PM
King’s Land Chinese Seafood 2200 W. Alameda Avenue | Denver, CO 80223 Cost: $50 Individual Ticket | $500 Corporate Table Register at www.acccolorado.org. Come celebrate the end of the year with the Asian Chamber of Commerce, community partners and organizations. Recap highlights of the year’s successes along with appetizers, an eight course menu, and dessert. Enjoy Coors products - donated by MillerCoors!
Taiko with Toni Workshop Saturday, Nov. 16, 1PM to 4PM
Simpson United Methodist Church 6001 Wolff Street | Arvada, CO 80003 Cost: $25 church members; $40 non-members Sign up at the church or call 303-428-7963.
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November 2013 | Upcoming Events
The Consulate-General of Japan in Denver is pleased to announce ai kuwabara trio project US Tour 2013, a Japanese jazz group appearing in Denver under a performing arts abroad program of the Japan Foundation. Fresh and modern Japanese jazz group ai kuwabara trio project will perform a series of concerts in November, sponsored by the Japan Foundation, Los Angeles. The band’s music is urban contemporary jazz with a strong, experimental feel and a flavor of funk. The band shows a regard for a wide-range of musical styles, featuring elements of progressive rock and even pop. They are led by young jazz pianist Ai Kuwabara with Yusuke Morita on bass guitar and Shintaro Imamura on drums. .
NAAAP Fire and Ice Gala
Wednesday, Nov. 20, 6PM to 9PM
McNichols Civic Center Building 144 W. Colfax Avenue | Denver, CO 80202 Cost: $50 NAAAP members | $70 non-members Register at www.naaapcolorado.org. National Association of Asian American Professionals Colorado welcomes you to its third annual charity gala to raise money benefiting the Asian Pacific Development Center (APDC)’s Youth Program! Join the “Fire and Ice” theme in your red & white formal evening attire and diamond accessories! Enjoy a delicious banquet dinner and fashion show that will include the women of the Miss Asian American Colorado Leadership Program and children from the APDC Youth Program. It will be a fun night, and all for a good cause!
Adams County Fairground 9755 Henderson Road | Brighton, CO 80601 Cost: $10 For more info, visit www.hmongcolorado.org. Celebrate Hmong culture with ball tossing, food, arts and crafts, and performances at this year’s Hmong New Year celebration. Support the women participating in the Hmong Colorado Pageant, watch the sports competitions or join in the singing and dancing competition. Fun activities for all ages.
Classifieds TCBY Frozen Yogurt self serve store for sale in Greenwood Village. Great location, turn key, franchise transfer easy to do. If interested, please contact Keri Green at 760-809-6908. FOR LEASE 1150 S. Federal Blvd. Denver, CO 80219 25×27 square ft. at $1500/month
Call Mr.Vega at 720.327.4733. Office or Retail for Rent
Good location, Highway 36 & Pecos 1250 sq ft | $850 monthly rent
Office for Rent
Good location, Highway 36 & Pecos 250 sq ft | $350 monthly rent Affordable Rent Tel: 720-329-2613
Foot Spa for sale in Thornton, CO Fantastic location, great profit. Please call 720-237-5200.
BEST OF 2013 the year is winding down! help us find the ‘best’ of 2013. best sushi in denver? best pho? best supermarket?
Solid Gold Company
take the survey on www.asianavenuemagazine.com
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Joy of Living Dinner You’re invited
to enjoy the best Hibachi in Denver! Sunday, December 8th, Begins at 5:30pm Volcano Asian Cuisine 10440 E Arapahoe Rd. Centennial, CO 80112 Cost: $30 (includes tax/gratuity) Back by popular demand, we are hosting a Joy of Living Dinner at the delicious Volcano Asian Cuisine. Come enjoy dinner at the hibachi table and meet new friends also interested in enjoying great food! Please RSVP at marketing@asianavenuemagazine.com or call 303.937.6888 by Wednesday, Dec. 4. Checks made payable to Asian Avenue can be sent to: Asian Avenue, P.O. Box 221748, Denver, CO 80222.
THE MENU
Appetizers: Edamame, Wontons, California Roll, Chef’s Special Roll Choice of Soup: Hibachi, Miso, Hot & Sour or Egg Drop Entrees – Family-style: On the Hibachi Grill Grilled Fish Filet, Beef with Black Pepper Sauce, Teriyaki Chicken and the Signature Hibachi Fried Rice From the Kitchen Traditional Chinese Spicy Boiled Fish with Tofu, Seasonal Vegetables Organized by Asian Avenue, the Joy of Living Dinners give you an opportunity to embark on culinary adventures at various restaurants! Sharing family-style allows you to try a bit of everything with new friends. We hope you will join us at Volcano!
Attorney Harry Budisidharta makes community service and helping refugees his priority Annie Guo Asian Avenue magazine
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“I get to make a difference in people’s lives,” says Harry Budisidharta, 29, attorney and partner at The Denver Firm. This is what he says is the best part of being a lawyer. “Nobody is ever happy to see a lawyer, but I get to help people at their lowest point. My job is very stressful, but it forces me to be creative and to multi-task.” Born in Indonesia, Budisidharta moved to the U.S. when he was 12 years old. Shortly after he left Indonesia, the country was hit by the Asian financial crisis in 1997. The economic meltdown led to increased political tension with riots and violence toward the Chinese-Indonesian community. “It was a very scary time for me and my family,” he says. “My parents sent me here to get a better education and to avoid the political instability in Indonesia.” At the age of 14, he took an intelligence test and scored high enough to enroll in college full-time. Thus, he never attended high school. Budisidharta obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from California State University, Los Angeles. He then moved to Colorado and attended the University of Colorado Law School to obtain his Juris Doctor. “Both of my parents are dentists. My older brother still lives in Indonesia and he is currently studying to become a dentist. I miss them a lot, but I am grateful for the sacrifice
that they made to send me here.” Growing up, he had wanted to follow in his parents’ footsteps. He initially pursued pre-med but realized how much he hated biology and chemistry. He says, “I changed my major to political science because I had a great political science professor that inspired me to become a lawyer.” Budisidharta has now been a partner at The Denver Firm for approximately five years. The firm handles cases of criminal defense, personal injury, civil litigation, and corporate law. Not only is Budisidharta a young attorney, he is a young attorney who has received numerous awards. Particularly in 2012, he received three significant accolades. • 2012 Mayor’s Diversity Award for his community service and advocacy work on behalf of the refugee community • 2012 Young Lawyer of the Year Award from Arapahoe County Bar Association • 2012 Governor Ralph Carr Service Award from the Asian Pacific American Bar Association as recognition for his commitment to community service “I am particularly proud of the 2012 Mayor’s Diversity Award because I am passionate about helping out the refugee population,” he says. While this was a great accomplishment for him, he is also proud to have finished the Rock and Roll Marathon in 2011, which he trained hard for. If he wasn’t a lawyer, Budisidharta says he would be a community organizer for a local non-profit organization. “I love organizing
workshops and forums to educate people about issues that affect their lives,” he says. “I like building coalitions and working together toward a common purpose.” In this spirit, he is very involved in the community. Budisidharta is the chair of the professional development committee for the Colorado Criminal Defense Bar, in which he is in charge of organizing seminars and workshops to train members about the latest developments in criminal law. He is the president of the Mile High Chapter of the Japanese American Citizens League, and is on the board of Asian Pacific Development Center, Asian Pacific American Bar Association, Arapahoe County Bar Association, and Aurora Symphony Orchestra. “I am so busy with my community service that I often joke that I get to be a lawyer in my spare time,” he says. Lucky for Budisidharta he is able to combine his passion to help the community with his ‘real job’. “There is a desperate need for legal representation within our community,” he says. “We have a large refugee population that are often preyed by criminals, employers, and slumlords. The refugees can’t afford to hire an attorney and that is when I step in to help them.” While he is not a refugee, Budisidharta knows what it’s like to grow up in a foreign land. “You feel alone and helpless.” “I want the refugees to know that they are not alone and that there are people that will help them navigate through this strange and wondrous land of opportunity,” says Budisidharta. This is where he steps in to help.
Denver Mayor Michael Hancock awards Harry Budisidharta the 2012 Mayor’s Diversity Award
Fran Campbell, Harry Budisidharta and Mayor Hancock at 2012 Mayor’s Diversity Awards
Budisidharta finishes the 2011 Rock & Roll Marathon in Denver
November 2013 | Spotlight
RISING STAR:
C.J. de Dios expresses love for his Filipino roots Brenda Velasquez Asian Avenue magazine
Travel opens minds. For 21-year old C.J. de Dios, one unforgettable visit to his family’s homeland in the summer of 2010 broadened his cultural identity and inspired him to cultivate his roots. A University of Denver senior studying International Business with a minor in Japanese and a knack for marketing and social media, de Dios has demonstrated his proactive nature by fulfilling three internships—for multinational food conglomerate Mondelēz , the International Music Festival Conference and currently, Northwestern Mutual—and taking on leadership roles such as President of the DU Asian Student Alliance. “Ever since freshman year, I’ve been a part of the ASA officer team,” recounts de Dios. “I was put to work immediately marketing events on social media, reserving spaces, contracting performers, and even facilitating discussions on my own. Being a part of ASA has greatly defined my college career; I owe a lot of gratitude to the organization.” “The members and I want to put 110% effort into our events, our community service, and our advocacy for social justice and equality in the Asian-American community.” After studying abroad at Kansai Gaidai University in Osaka, Japan last fall, de Dios boarded a direct flight to the homeland, an endearing term he uses to describe his parents’ home province of Pampanga, Philippines. His parents arrived in the U.S. over 25 years ago, though de Dios’ earliest relatives have resided in Denver since the 70s. A native of Denver himself, de Dios grew up in a predominantly Caucasian and African-American community, lacking strong connection to his Filipino roots. “My heritage as a Filipino American is everything to me but it was something I didn’t fully acknowledge until I graduated from high school and took my third trip to the Philippines,” shares de Dios, who had only previously visited Pampanga as a small child. While
this was not his first visit, it was his first time visiting alone. “Ever since this trip, I’ve embraced my heritage like no other. I’ll take any opportunity to express my love for being Filipino. I want nothing but to learn more and more about the place my family comes from.” The trip not only catalyzed de Dios’ burning Filipino pride but also opened his eyes to the struggles his family, and others like them, have endured. “I definitely look up to my family members,” says de Dios. “Both my mom and my dad, along with my uncles, aunts, and grandparents lived through war and dictatorships but they persevered through it all and worked their tails off to give the next generation a better life.” As the only child in the household, which includes his parents and uncle, de Dios looks toward the future with a deep sense of familial duty. “My family came to America with the intent of supporting my family back home; my parents send a good chunk of their yearly income to my aunts, uncles, cousins, and other people who need help, just so they can at least get the resources they need.” “I will have to assume the role my parents have once I become older, but how am I supposed to provide for my family if I don’t even know them? This is why I need to catch up with my heritage. I need to assimilate myself into the culture; I need to know my family’s needs.” While cultivating his emergent cultural pride, de Dios remains humble in his naivety, open to life’s possibilities and seeking new experiences to broaden his perception. “I’m still learning about the world around me and what it has to offer. But from now on, I am no longer just an American. I want to be able to say I am a true Asian-American: one that can achieve anything in this society while still being in touch with his heritage back home, one that can represent more than just one flag in his life.”
School: University of Denver Hometown: Denver, CO Involvements: President of ASA, DU Latin Dance Club, Marketing Intern for Northwestern Mutual, Excelling Leaders Institute Peer Leader Quote you live by: “Stay far from timid, only make moves when your heart’s in it, and live the phrase ‘sky’s the limit’.” -The Notorious B.I.G. C.J. in three words: Positive, Dedicated, Human Hobbies/interests: Hip-Hop Music, Food, Sports, Latin Dancing, Photography Dream job: Food critic that travels the world or owner of a sports team
de Dios performs with Cassie Chanthavong and Caleb Wassell at the Asian Student Alliance’s 6th annual eXpressions show
de Dios with his family in Pampanga, Philippines Rising Star | asian avenue magazine
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Architects and leaders design the Denver Buddhist Temple Expansion Project Ron Abo The Abo Group
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In 1968, the Denver Urban Renewal Au‐ thority (DURA) initiated the Skyline Urban Renewal District to redevelop a 26 block area of lower downtown Denver including the block the Denver Buddhist Temple occupied. All existing businesses, residents, and the temple would have to relocate out of the dis‐ trict. In order to remain in the district, DURA required that the temple change the exterior of the building to meet the design guidelines established for the district. The leadership of the Denver Buddhist Temple proposed that the block bounded by 19th, 20th, Lawrence and Larimer Streets be redeveloped as a Japanese commercial and cultural center with the Denver Buddhist Tem‐ ple remaining in its original location. The proposal was accepted in 1969 and the project was dubbed “Sakura Square”. In 1970, the architectural firm, Bertram A. Bru‐ ton and Associates developed a design for a 204 unit high‐rise apartment building and 29,000 square feet of commercial space. Tri‐ State Buddhists Apartments, Inc., a non‐profit corporation was formed to manage the project and the financing was underwritten by FHA. In addition to renovating the exterior of the temple, it was time to address the long term needs of the Sanga. Two young Sansei architects; Akira Kawanabe, a member of the temple, and Ron Abo volunteered to develop architectural space needs. Abo later became one of the design archi‐ tects and is currently the head sensei of Den‐ ver Buddhist Temple Aikido. Kawanabe and Abo met extensively with the temple’s board and all of the temple organizations to deter‐ mine their needs for space. The ABR Partnership, Architects, a promi‐ nent local architectural firm where Kawanabe and Abo were employed at the time, was en‐ gaged to design the expansion and renovation of the temple. When Kawanabe moved back to Alamosa where he grew up to start his own architectural practice, Abo became the design architect for the project. The original brick Hondo building was November 2013 | Inside Story
designed in 1947 by famous Denver architect Temple Buell. It was designed in the art deco style of the period. There were two promi‐ nent entry projections on the Lawrence Street façade. The projection on the north was the main entry to the building. The auditorium was added in the 1950’s. In order to accommodate a large addition of a multi‐purpose room/gymnasium, the temple secured “air‐rights” over the parking at the corner of 20th and Lawrence. A two-story addition connected the multi‐purpose room to the existing Hondo and auditorium. The connector created a lobby space, restrooms, stairs to the lower level classrooms, a large commercial kitchen, locker rooms and upper level offices, library and Issei lounge. The northern entry projection to the Hondo was removed and the seating capac‐ ity of the Hondo was increased. The southern entry projection was increased to contain a “Nokotsudo” and a choir alcove. The removal of the northern entry projection allowed for a space for the statue of Saint Shinran and an offset “Path to Buddha” common to Buddhist Temples in Japan. The Path to Buddha requires one to be con‐ templative as they enter the temple through a gate or wall, encounter icons or statues, walk along meandering paths through gardens, onto an exterior porch or veranda, and into a lobby or ante‐room before encountering the sacred space of the Hondo.
This Path to Buddha was the guiding design principle and was the rationale for keeping the larger building forms simple white stucco with wood trim and the Path to Buddha as more tra‐ ditionally designed in the Japanese style. The existing space under the auditorium was converted to classroom space and the ar‐ eas under the Hondo were incorporated into the design of the Tsunoda Chapel, designed by Ron Abo and Virginia DuBrucq. The Denver Buddhist Temple renovation and addition project was completed in 1974 for a total construction cost of $250,000. In 2002, the Denver Buddhist Temple merged with the Tri‐State Buddhist Temple with the new title of Tri‐State/Denver Buddhist Temple (TSDBT). Over the years, Abo designed modifica‐ tions to the temple such as incorporating fold‐ ing partitions between the Hondo and Audi‐ torium for overflow seating and providing a wheelchair accessible ramp in the garden. In 2010, the TSDBT Apartments began a strategic planning process to determine the disposition of Tamai Tower and Sakura Square once the H.U.D. loan was paid off in 2014. The TSDBT Board considered relocating to a new site or demolishing the existing buildings and build a new structure altogether. It was decid‐ ed to stay in the same location and renovate and expand the existing temple facilities. With the help of Ron Abo, Kevin K. Yoshida, and Kel‐ ly Yamisaki, at this time, the planning is in the very early stages.
The Path to Buddha was the guiding principle in which the Tri-State/Denver Buddhist Temple’s garden was designed.This includes meandering paths onto an exterior porch before entering the sacred space.
“Not For Sale”
We as human beings cannot be sold and we are worth more than any price in the world. Thuy Trang Miss Asian American Colorado
Miss Asian American Colorado Thuy Trang (left) with her siblings Phi, Huyen and Kelly
As Miss Asian American Colorado, I am organizing the “Not For Sale” project that deals with the topic of human and sex trafficking based in Vietnam. Every year girls are sold into the illegal sex trade in Vietnam. They are not seen as human beings; they are objects of profit and desire. This is where the t-shirts come in. The tshirts make a statement that illustrates that we as human beings cannot be sold and that we are worth more than any price in the world. All proceeds from the sales will be donated to the Little Rose Shelter based in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The Little Rose Shelter is a refuge for young girls who are survivors of, or at risk for, abuse and trafficking in Vietnam. I was shocked to hear that girls as young as eight years old were
being exploited and violated. I just couldn’t sit there and let that happen; I wanted to help in any way I could. I got involved with this shelter in high school, but to this day it is still something I feel so passionate about. I hope through my project, people will understand more about the tragedies that these girls go through. Your contribution helps feed the girls, fund their schooling, and so much more beyond the physical. You may not know it, but it means the world to these girls that you care about them even though you may not know their names or their stories. And I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for your contribution. The Miss AACO program is a leadership development and empowerment program for Asian American women in Colorado. Learn more about my project at www,missaaco. com. Follow me on Twitter @missaaco.
Not for Sale T-shirts and Tanks Fundraiser Against Human and Sex Trafficking $10 www.missaaco.com
‘IT’S A GIRL’ DOCUMENTARY COMES TO DENVER!
In India, China and many other parts of the world today, girls are killed, aborted and abandoned simply because they are girls. The United Nations estimates as many as 200 million girls are missing in the world today because of this “gendercide.” “Shot on location in India and China, It’s a Girl unravels this issue. It asks why is this happening, and why is so little being done to save girls and women?” The film tells the stories of abandoned and trafficked girls, of women who suffer extreme dowry-related violence, of brave mothers fighting to save their daughters’
lives, and of other mothers who would kill for a son. Global experts and grassroots activists put the stories in context and advocate different paths towards change, while collectively lamenting the lack of any truly effective action against this injustice. By bringing this incredible, eye-opening film to Denver, we can help raise awareness for this issue and put an end to gendercide. For more info, visit www.ItsaGirlMovie.com. This documentary screening is part of the ”NOT FOR SALE” project organized by Miss Asian American Colorado Thuy Trang. Learn more at www.missaaco.com.
Thursday, December 5th 7:30pm - 9:00pm AMC Westminster Promenade 24 Cost: $10 Admission Get Tickets at: www.tugg.com/events/5969
Presented by Miss Asian American Colorado Leadership Program Giving Back | asian avenue magazine
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Single
in the City:
Asian-American Bachelors and Bachelorettes Our third annual Asian-American singles issue highlights 14 young men and women in the mile-high city. Whether they enjoy hiking and jogging or eating out on the town, these bachelors and bachelorettes show that it’s not too bad to be single in this city. More than a bustling nightlife and dynamic bar scene, Denver has scenic parks, gorgeous mountains, and the adventurous outdoors.
Mimi, who describes herself as quirky, spontaneous and a tomboy, says one of the greatest risks she’s ever taken is telling Star Wars fans she hasn’t seen all of the Star Wars movie. Her biggest accomplishment is the fact that she’s traveled to more than 30 countries and islands.
Mimi Lai, 24
Chinese-American Clinical Researcher 12
November 2013 | Cover Story
In her free time, Mimi enjoys outdoor activities, pole fitness and Parkour. She also enjoys tending to her vegetable garden, cooking while watching her favorite TV shows and traveling whenever she can. A lover of any food that’s tasty and nutritious, Mimi says not a lot of people know that she’s crafty and makes delicious gluten-free goodies. Her perfect date would involve “doing something that neither of us have done before and a beer afterwards.” Qualities that attract her: Laid-back, smiles and silliness Dislikes: Phoniness, high maintenance, negativity and closed-minded Can’t live without: Sunshine, good food and good company Words she lives by: “Smile every chance you get. Not because life has been easy, perfect, or exactly as you had anticipated, but because you choose to be happy and grateful for all the good things you do have and all the problems you know you don’t have.”
SinglesMingle MIXER
COME MEET THE SINGLES!
Saturday, November 23 | 8pm to 10pm Cost: $10 (includes two drinks)
Go Fish Bar and Lounge 1 Broadway, B108 | Denve r, CO 8020
3 RSVP to info@asianaven uemagazine.com, 303.937.6888 or on Faceb ook.
By Patricia Kaowthumrong Photos by David Guo Photography
Calling all singles! Come out for a night of fu n and meet other eligible bachelors and bach elorettes including those featured in this issue . The Singles Mingle Mixe r includes networking and activities for attendee s to connect. Who knows who you may meet? Must be 21 years old to par
ticipate. RSVP preferred.
Tony’s achievements include graduating with degrees in computer science and economics from the Colorado School of Mines and finding a successful career as a systems test engineer, but he says his biggest accomplishment is performing improv regularly on stage. “It is a great outlet for being ridiculous, and it is very satisfying when the audience is genuinely laughing during a performance,” Tony says.
Tony, who describes himself as fun-loving, organized and humorous, says his mom had the greatest influence on him growing up. His mother’s experience coming to the U.S. as an immigrant and raising three children as a single mother remains an ongoing source of inspiration and motivation for him. Tony’s free time activities include exercising, enjoying happy hour, playing Magic the Gathering cards, traveling and performing improv. His perfect date would consist of a delicious dinner out, drinks somewhere quiet and great conversation that makes the night fly by. Qualities that attract him: An easy going sense of humor, congeniality, intelligence, health-oriented and honesty Dislikes: Negativity, flakiness and dishonesty Can’t live without: Laughter, friends and beer—they often all overlap. Also glasses, I can’t see without them. Words he lives by: “Holding on to anger is like grasping a hot coal with the intent of throwing it at someone else; you are the one who gets burned.” -Buddhist proverb
Tony Nguyen, 31
Vietnamese-American Systems Test Engineer
Single in the City | asian avenue magazine
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Yukari’s recent accomplishments include mastering the art of chess and baking banana bread, but she is also proud of the leadership and networking skills she acquired during participation in the Miss Asian American Colorado program.
Yukari has attended the Denver School of Massage Therapy and University of Colorado at Denver. In her spare time, Yukari enjoys going dancing, kickboxing, reading, watching kung fu movies and painting her nails. She describes herself as enthusiastic, open-minded and giving, and her favorite foods include sinigang, sushi, green tea ice cream, pistachio ice cream and soki soba. Yukari’s perfect date would consist of ice cream and an outdoor adventure—or both. Qualities that attract her: Witty, kind, educated and ambitious Dislikes: Selfish, arrogant, dishonest, pessimistic and condescending Can’t live without: Family, iPhone and football season Words she lives by: “The flower that blooms in adversity is the rarest and most beautiful of all.”
Yukari Usui, 25
Japanese/Filipino-American Client Service Representative Ricky describes himself as optimistic, down to earth, and adventurous—as he has been skydiving and also enjoys riding his motorcycle. In high school, Ricky worked at his parents’ Chinese restaurant every day after school, but he was still able to keep his academics up and graduate as salutatorian. His parents had the greatest influence on him growing up. “From them, I get my humbleness, strong work ethic and perseverance.” He went on to acquire Computer Science and Economics degrees from the Colorado School of Mines and a Master’s in Computer Science from the University of Denver.
Ricky Chan, 31 Chinese-American Software Engineer
Because she’s always wearing a bright smile, Mai says people don’t usually pick up on her shyness. A graduate of Horizon High School, Mai benefited from a class structure based on the integration of English, history and science. She says the approach forced her to think outside the box and challenge her beliefs and view of the world. Mai says her mom’s strength and dedication to gender equality and her education had the greatest influence on while she was growing up. “She carries herself with grace, always knows the right things to say and always shows up with her heart,” Mai says.
Although Mai says she is still in the process of achieving her greatest accomplishment, she strives to live life on her own terms, even if it means giving up everything she knows. She describes herself as friendly, dedicated and fun, and loves to be in good company with friends and family. She enjoys Thai food, and doesn’t have a preference for the perfect date, as long as there is “chemistry and laughter in the conversation.”
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Qualities that attract her: Funny, outgoing, laid-back, confident, smart, friendly, caring and honest Can’t live without: My sister, who’s my soul mate November 2013 | Cover Story
His favorite foods are sushi, pho, Korean barbecue and authentic ramen noodles. His perfect date would be at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. “It’ll be an out of the world experience at the Space Odyssey Exhibit and Planetarium Show,” he says. “Get the heart pumping at Exhibition Health and then cap it off with a 3-D film at the IMAX theatre.” Qualities that attract him: Humor, compassion, open-mindedness, honesty, genuine, adventurous and laid-back Dislikes: Materialistic, arrogant, self-centered and disrespectful Can’t life without: My family, friends and phone Words he lives by: “I’m pretty sure there’s a lot more to life than being really, really, ridiculously good looking. And I plan on finding out what that is.” – Zoolander
Mai Kou Vang, 30 Hmong-American New Product Coordinator
Tricia is quirky, open-minded and adventurous. After majoring in Anthropology and GIS at the University of Colorado at Denver, she acquired a research grant and for two summers, studied infectious disease prevalence among local tribes overseas. “I loved every moment!” she says. “And still do. In research, every day gives you a new perspective.”
In her spare time, she enjoys hanging out with her German Shepherd mix, Siouxsie, traveling, and volunteering. “I love the opportunity for new experiences - from hosting a sushi-making party to checking out the Science Lounge at Denver Museum of Nature and Science,” she says. “And if nothing else, having a notoriously bad sense of direction means every day is a chance for new adventures!” Tricia’s perfect date is anything laid-back and fun with good food and charming conversation. She says, “Bonus points if it includes an activity neither of us has tried before.”
Qualities that attract her: Respectfulness, generosity, cleverness, confidence and humility Dislikes: Lack of ambition and negativity Can’t live without: My family. We’re spread out all over the world but we still manage to stay close. And friends, the people who choose to be family. And Siouxsie, of course! Words she lives by: “Never lose your childlike wonder and try everything twice!”
Tricia King, 27 Filipino-American Research Specialist
Cuong, who describes himself as witty, confident and genuine, says his greatest accomplishment is founding Tennis Hope, a nonprofit organization that promotes youth development and diversity within the Denver tennis community. Cuong attended the University of Colorado at Boulder and works as a systems administrator.
Cuong’s favorite food is Brazilian steak and says most people don’t know that he can’t eat spicy food. His perfect date is “taking the lady out shopping and letting her buy everything until she takes my bank account down to zero.” Cuong enjoys playing tennis, basketball and football; hiking; running; snowboarding; going to the gym; and knitting sweaters for his cat.
Cuong Huynh, 26 Vietnamese-American Systems Administrator
Qualities that attract him: Honest, caring, loving, smart, respectful, selfsufficient, outgoing, ambitious, athletic, witty, thoughtful, confident, funny, gorgeous smile, big eyes and the ability to swim (in case he’s drowning) Dislikes: Deceptive, neglectful, inconsiderate, unintelligent, dependent, introverted, unenthusiastic, inactive, gullible, inconsiderate, weak-minded, unfunny, crooked smile, evil eyes and not knowing how to swim Can’t live without: Putting a smile on someone’s face Words he lives by: “I fear not the man who has practiced 10,000 kicks once, but I fear the man who has practiced one kick 10,000 times.” – Bruce Lee
A graduate of University of Colorado at Denver, Lynda’s greatest achievement is working full-time to put herself through undergraduate and graduate programs. “The experiences I found most valuable is that I can do a lot of things in life if I just put my head and my heart in the right place,” she says. “If I’m determined, ambitious and industrious, I can stretch my time and day to achieve everything I have in mind.” Lynda, who describes herself as decisive, considerate, adaptable, says a lot of people don’t realize that she’s very philosophical. Lynda likes to gain wisdom by going on cultural or social adventures. Although always up for a culinary or outdoor escapade, she also enjoys relaxing with a good book or a glass of wine. Qualities that attract her: Confidence, sincerity, thoughtfulness and a sense of humor Dislikes: Indecisiveness, laziness and closed-minded Can’t live without: My family, especially my nieces and nephew Words she lives by: “Get your HEART right by truly knowing who are and what want. Get your HEAD right by knowing how you want it. That way you can embrace life fearlessly.” – Self-quote I live by until this day
Lynda Saignaphone, 28 laotian-American public health Program assistant Single in the City | asian avenue magazine
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Jonathan considers his position as a tennis coach a unique
achievement. “Being a tennis coach is extremely gratifying,” he says. “It allows me to share my passion and love with someone who has similar aspirations.”
Jonathan describes himself as athletic, tenacious and a daredevil, and says not a lot of people realize that he’s very shy when it comes to approaching women he’s interested in. Jonathan’s perfect date would involve doing something fun, spontaneous and different than the standard coffee or dinner date. “Outdoor activities are always a hit,” he says.
A graduate of University of Colorado at Boulder, Jonathan was able to adapt to any circumstances thrown at him in college, a trait he found very valuable. The greatest risk he’s ever taken was moving to Los Angeles with a three-week notice. His dad, who he describes as wise, kind and very caring, had the greatest influence on him growing up, and when it comes to his favorite food, he says it’s hard to beat anything that his mom makes. Qualities that attract him: Confidence, selflessness, sense of adventure and most importantly a sense of humor Dislikes: Dishonesty, monotony and narrow-mindedness Can’t live without: My tennis racquets. Playing tennis keeps me sane.
Jonathan Yeh, 27
Chinese-American Investment Wholesaler/Tennis Coach A graduate of University of Colorado at Boulder, Jessica says that being well-rounded during her college career was a valuable experience. She was always involved in multiple organizations and athletics, and worked throughout college. Jessica’s mom had the greatest influence on her growing up. “She always taught me that character and doing the best you can in everything you do was very important,” Jessica says. In her free time, Jessica enjoys outdoor activities and spending time with friends and family.
Jessica Tai, 25
Chinese/Scottish/Irish-American Centurylink Recruiter
Qualities that attract her: Good sense of humor, drive, ambition and someone who is genuine Dislikes: Arrogance and ignorance Words she lives by: “There is no passion to be had in living a life that is less than one you are capable of living.” – Nelson Mandela
Steve, who describes himself as responsible, fun and hard-
working, says his greatest accomplishment is getting his engineering degree from University of Colorado at Denver, which he achieved by paying his way through college, studying hard and maintaining determination.
Steve’s greatest influencers growing up were his mother and father, who worked hard for little pay to raise six children. In his free time, Steve jogs, swims and hikes. He also enjoys watching movies and TV shows, playing games, hanging out with friends, listening to music, drinking and cooking. An Italian food lover, Steve says his perfect date would simply be dinner and a movie.
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Qualities that attract him: People who are independent and can take care of themselves Dislikes: Smoking, bad breath, laziness and procrastinator Can’t live without: I don’t know why, but I am very attached to music. I seem to be listening to music throughout my day and sometimes even to help me go to bed. Words he lives by: “Friends and family are like stars. You don’t always see them, but you know they’re always there.” November 2013 | Cover Story
Steve Le, 26 Vietnamese- American Electrical Engineer
Dennis says he’s lucky to be alive after making some wrong decisions
riding his bike, but he admits that flying a plane was much more nerveracking than riding a bike for the first time. A graduate of University of Colorado at Boulder with a degree in accounting, Dennis found meeting friends throughout college valuable because they eventually became his family. He also learned to chase his dreams. “Don’t sit around thinking about your dreams/success/goals you wish you had; go out and chase it now,” he says.
Dennis, who describes himself as optimistic, driven and full of integrity, says he wouldn’t be where he is today without his parents (and their constant nagging). His favorite activities include golfing, snowboarding, camping and fishing. He loves Korean barbecue and says his perfect date would involve “enjoying each other’s company no matter what the activity is.” Qualities that attract him: Down to earth, genuinely nice and open to try new things Dislikes: People who are mean and inconsiderate of others. Why can’t we all just get along? Can’t live without: Delicious food Words he lives by: “Everyone here has the sense that right now is one of those moments when we are influencing the future.” – Steve Jobs
Dennis Kyung, 30
korean-American Retirement Financial Representative Allison says she has a sense of boldness that people don’t often pick up on. She graduated from Metro State University in Denver, where she majored in journalism and minored in women’s studies. Allison greatly values her experience at the non-traditional, commuter campus, because it allowed her to truly experience diversity.
Although Allison says being the first in her family to earn a college degree is her greatest achievement, she considers moving out on savings after college and living without an income the biggest risk she’s ever taken. Allison describes herself as eccentric, mature and strong-willed, and lists chocolate as her favorite food. A lover of activities such as CrossFit, running, yoga and working out, Allison’s perfect date would involve an an active endeavor like ice skating or ziplining.
Allison Riley, 23 Filipina/Black-American
AmeriCorps Financial Empowerment Services
Qualities that attract her: Openness, respectfulness, intelligence, humor and athleticism Dislikes: Ignorance, egotism, lack of humility and being fake or “shady” Can’t live without: Exercise. I can’t go a day without doing something that makes me sweat. Words she lives by: “Trust in the universe that you are where you need to be.”
A policy analyst at the U.S. Government Accountability Office, Raj says people don’t usually realize that he’s quite shy. He received an undergraduate degree from the University of Colorado at Boulder before attending University of Colorado at Boulder Law School and University of Colorado at Denver Graduate School of Public Affairs. Raj’s fondest experiences during his education include meeting new classmates and discussing various academic and policy topics. He also studied in Australia for a semester, a risk he’s glad he took.
Raj’s favorite food is pasta, and he enjoys playing tennis in his spare time. He also loves to read and dance, and volunteers on the Associate Board Directors for Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver. Qualities that attract him: Humility, sense of humor and charisma Dislikes: Arrogance Can’t live without: Faith Words he lives by: “Praise and criticism are like bubble gum, you can chew on it, but don’t swallow it.” – Rick Warren “You can be oh so smart or oh so pleasant, I’ve been smart for 35 years, I recommend pleasant.” – Jimmy Stewart
Raj Verma, 34 Indian-American Policy Analyst Single in the City | asian avenue magazine
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The 25th Anniversary Uplift Internationale Gala Benefit raised over $77,000! The funds raised will help the mission teams provide 100 surgeries during a two-week mission to the Philippines in 2014 from February 2-8 in Palo,Tacloban and February 8-15 in Ormoc.
Uplift Internationale celebrates 25th year Twenty five years as an international charitable service organization is an impressive accomplishment and not one achieved by many. Yet, this very remarkable achievement was celebrated on Saturday, October 12 as volunteers, advocates, patrons, families and friends gathered for the Uplift International 25th Anniversary Gala Benefit and Auction. Originally established in 1989, Uplift International has accomplished the following to date: • 1,417 mending care surgeries primarily for cleft lips/palates at no-cost to children in the Philippines • Over 625 volunteer medical and outreach personnel have participated in 24 annual medical missions (volunteers are responsible for their own travel, meals, and lodging expenses) • Provided 192 mending care surgeries (24 per year) at the Taghoy Facial Cleft Clinic at Ormoc The surgery allows these children to move from the shadows of society back into the light of the community. The care is provided at no cost to the children or their impoverished families.
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The Uplift Internationale Anniversary Gala not only commemorated these accomplishments but also the great wealth of medical and community volunteers who have donated their knowledge, time and money over the past 25 years. Singular recognition was made of all the Uplift Internationale Humanitarian awardees from past years. As befitting this special occasion, Dr. Jaime Yrastorza, Uplift Internationale Founder and President-Emeritus, was presented the Lifetime Achievement Award. Dr. Yrastorza shared the following thoughts in gratitude and as encouragement to Uplift’s many volunteers and supporters: “Twenty-five years ago, Uplift Internationale began as a vision fortified by single-minded willingness to bring to fruition a modest goal of humane purpose. It was to mend faces of children with cleft lip and palate born of November 2013 | Feature
impoverished families in rural Philippines. They are deformities that defy camouflage. The children are saddled by taunts and, sadly, ferment a consuming sense of self-worthlessness, driving them to retreat to the shadows of their community. I was of the strong belief that in America, indeed, among every country of the world, there resides among people an innate virtue of compassion, of charity for the downtrodden, of willingness to extend a helping hand to fellowmen in need. It is this magnificent, sustaining resource that Uplift Internationale has tapped and given many the opportunity to volunteer their talent and time. In the ensuing years, my hope is that our project will mushroom and be able to conduct its activities to more children, at increasing number of venues, in the Philippines, coupled by the augmenting contribution of community-based Taghoy Facial Cleft Clinics managed by ‘Filipinos for Filipinos’ And, I further hope that the Philippines’ own wealth of expertise and philanthropy focused on the care of the malformation will triumph over the prevalence of Filipino children with the deformity. It is important to me the tales of children whose lives have benefited from the project: the willingness to return to school, the joy from interacting with peers, the return to society and employment, the confidence to a courtship and marriage… they are the lifechanging treasures of the benefited, as they are the immeasurable rewards of the benefactors. It is indeed a legacy that rightfully should and will prevail in the future. For these coming years I ask that we hold dear our guiding motto to change lives by mending faces one child at a time. To each and every supporter, philanthropist, and participant – thank you for making this Uplift Silver Anniversary a success.” The Uplift Internationale team is preparing for their 25th mission to the Philippines in February 2014. If you would like to donate to Operation Taghoy or for more information, visit www.upliftinternationale.org.
Dr. Jaime Yrastorza inspired the attendees with his acceptance speech when presented with the Uplift Internationale Lifetime Achievement Award. Fran Campbell Denver Asian Pacific American Commission
Yrastorza says Uplift Internationale began as a modest goal of humane purpose
Yrastorza speaks to a packed banquet room
Five of Yrastorza’s 14 grandchildren at the gala
Dr. Jaime Yrastorza receives Lifetime Achievement Award
Dr. Jaime Yrastorza, maxillofacial surgeon, is the founder of Uplift Internationale.Yrastorza left the Philippines after graduation from high school to begin his collegiate studies at the University of Minnesota where he earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology.Then, he obtained a doctorate degree in dental medicine from Washington University and specialty training in oral-maxillofacial surgery from Georgetown University. He received the Uplift Internationale Lifetime Achievement Award on October 12, 2013.
From Fire to Freedom
$20.99 Paperback
Childhood in Colonial Philippines to a Post-WWII Adulthood in America
Now accepting pre-orders! Purchase at www.tatepublishing.com
By Jaime Alonso Yrastorza From Fire to Freedom narrates an insight into the tapestry of the life of Dr. Jaime Alonso Yrastorza. His weave of reminiscences begins in his idyllic upbringing in rural Philippines. He reflects on the legacies that centuries of turbulent Spanish and American colonial overlords had influenced the mores and traditions of present-day Filipinos. Living in a battlefield of WWII, he relives his experiences from days fraught with danger, destruction, and death as his family was caught in the struggle between the Japanese and American military forces. After adolescence, he left the nation
he refers to as Perla del Mar de Oriente, weaving an adventurous and enlightening odyssey in America, rigorously pursuing years of education in prestigious universities to gain a profession and become a patriotic American citizen. He shares tales of his life with a growing family of five children and fourteen grandchildren from marriage to an Iowan with Irish blood running in her veins. This inspiring personal journey shares the rewards from the fervor and perseverance of his actions and underscores his advocacy to engage our innate enriching quality of reciprocation and charity for the benefit of fellow men in need.
Uplift Internationale | asian avenue magazine
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Mary Jeneverre Schultz Twitter: @Jeneverre
16th Street and Stout | Downtown Denver Tel: 720.746.8880 | www.atasteofthephilippines.com
Pancit Noodles (Vegetarian)
Owner and Chef Kathy Gietl
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November 2013 | Restaurant Peek
Filipino food evolved from origins of Chinese, Polynesian and Spanish cuisines. The mixture of these cuisines brings an eclectic taste of delicious food involving seafood, chicken and pork dishes. For more than a year, A Taste of the Philippines brings an array of Filipino cuisines for downtown workers, corporate executives and business travelers into the downtown area of Denver. “I believe my food cart stands out from the rest because Filipino food is still so new to the scene,” said owner and chef Kathy Gietl. “The unique flavor of the dishes keeps my customers coming back.” Gietl added that her cart is the first one of its kind to offer Filipino food in Colorado. Her cart attracts foodies and adventure eaters. “A lot of them started out just browsing at the menu, then turned in to customers and turned regulars which I’m really happy about,” Gietl said. “I never expected this kind of response and I am extremely grateful for.” Ranging from $1 to $9.50, her cart offers these entrees: • Chicken Adobo: The most popular entree on the menu goes to the chicken adobo. Tender chicken simmered in fresh garlic, soy sauce and a hint of vinegar makes chicken adobo the classic favorite. • Manok Sa Gata (Chicken cooked in coconut): With the unique blend of coconut milk, fresh ginger, fresh garlic, bamboo shoots all simmered with chicken, the Manok Sa Gata it is a must try! • Pancit: The vegetarian pancit is really popular as well. Vermicelli mixed with a variety of vegetables and sometimes seitan (vegetable meat) makes this pancit popular with the health conscious and vegetarians. • Kare-kare: The hearty pork and peanut sauce with eggplant, green beans and cabbage mix makes kare-kare another unique option.
• Chicken or Pork Skewers: For those wanting to taste delicious sauces, try the chicken or pork skewers, which is offered through her special menu. • Lumpia (egg roll): Each lumpia is hand rolled and filled with either ground beef with vegetables or tofu with vegetables paired with Gietl’s very own sweet and sour sauce. • Ginulayang Shrimp or Tofu: This is the perfect dish for seafood and vegetarian lovers during the winter time. Gietl’s lumpia, selling for $1 each, are one of the most popular appetizers on her menu. Party packs are available by calling her in advance. In addition, Gietl works closely with two bars to offer lumpia. She works at different music and art venues, including the annual Colorado Dragon Boat Festival. After a Bronco win or maybe even on Hump Day, Gietl sells two lumpias for the price of $1, regularly at $1 apiece. Occasionally, she offers specials on her Facebook page or Twitter feed. Follow her through these online media outlets to catch her daily and weekly specials. In addition, she maintains a box of frequent customers’ cards. Every time you purchase a meal, she stamps it and keeps it in her box. After ten meals, a free meal is offered to the frequent diner. She also passes out flyers to her weekend events, distributes stickers with the cart’s logo and even t-shirts mass produced in the Philippines, showing off the name of her cart. Her downtown location introduces the cuisines to Filipino transplants, foodies and curious eaters interested in Asian culinary delights. “It’s a great place to introduce the Filipino cuisine,” Gietl said. Starting on April 16, 2012, Gietl began the food cart after leaving the corporate world. With fierce determination to succeed with the food cart concept, she researched, created and perfected recipes from the Philippines. She credits her success to the uniqueness of the Filipino food and the support of her downtown friends and family.
Like on Facebook: A Taste of the Philippines Follow on Twitter: @FilipinoCart
menu. Annie Guo
DU ROLL $8 Cucumber, avocado, crab mix, jalapeno, cilantro, and asparagus roll with seared spicy tuna. Topped with masago and scallion.
Asian Avenue magazine
UNIVERSITY ROLL $8 Cucumber, cream cheese, asparagus, mushroom, shrimp tempura roll covered with fresh avocado. Topped with wasabi guacamole. TAKO RICE BOWL $8 Smoked squid and tako salad with chopped avocado, cucumber, cilantro, mushroom, and bell pepper. With spicy chili sauce, sesame oil, masago scallion & crunch. FIRE BOWL $9 Spicy tuna, spicy salmon and spicy shrimp with mushroom, jalapeno, cucumber, avocado, asparagus, chili pepper, sesame oil and crunch. 2076 S. University Blvd. Denver, CO 80210 Tel: 303.282.6400 www.wasabirollandgo.com HOURS: 11AM - 10PM
To describe Wasabi Roll & Go in three words, it is healthy, trendy and affordable. Wasabi Roll & Go brings a unique concept to Denver. The restaurant offers fast, on-the-go sushi with the option of creating customized sushi rolls. What an amazing experience to be able to decide what goes into each bite of your fishy delight. Patrons can choose from a variety of rice, protein (such as salmon, tuna, shrimp or chicken), vegetables, house-made sauces, and signature toppings. Wasabi Roll & Go, located near the University of Denver, is the third Wasabi Sushi in Colorado—with many more in Missouri. Its new take on Japanese cuisine is similar to other on-the-go eateries, in which your order is made behind a counter before your very eyes,
only it’s the first of its kind for sushi. “I’ve always been thinking about this concept,” says J.W. Lee, Principal of Wasabi. “I think that right now the market, needs this. The customers have been trained out there. With all the Subways and Chipotles, people know what to expect.” Wasabi Roll & Go is convenient for students who need to get in and out quickly. Students can order by phone or online and pick up their food; they can also choose from the Grab & Go section, a refrigerated area with pre-made sushi rolls and bottled drinks. The eatery also offers various rice bowls that are just as popular as the sushi. Recently opened on September 16, the restaurant already has many regular customers.
WASABI SUSHI COLORADO LOCATIONS - www.wasabisushibars.com 433 South Teller St. Lakewood, CO 80226 | Tel: 303.935.8888 12073 E. Arapahoe Rd, #140 Centennial, CO 80112 | Tel: 303.708.0888
“We already have repeat customers which means it’s been approved and that people like it,” says Lee. “They are comfortable and they are having fun.” Lee has more than 20 years of cooking experience with training in Japan and Korea. He created many of the Wasabi recipes. Other items on the menu are gyoza, edamame, seaweed salad, and miso soup. Japanese cuisine, in general, is considerably healthy. “The state of Colorado is health-conscious, so we need something like this,” says Lee. For refreshments, Wasabi Roll & Go sells coffee, hot tea, and boba drinks (smoothies). The restaurant will soon offer Chinese and Japanese draft beer, making it a great spot to study, to hang out or to wind down. “If we created this restaurant ten years ago, it probably wouldn’t have worked. But now people are ready for this kind of concept, especially in Denver.”
Restaurant Peek | asian avenue magazine
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TEA’s ‘99 Histories’ illustrates the multiple faces of ‘jeong’ Brenda Velasquez Asian Avenue magazine
It’s something deeper than romance. Theatre Esprit Asia’s 99 Histories opened Thursday night October 24 at the intimate Vintage Theatre in Aurora. The evocative play explored the universal theme of love within romantic, platonic and parental contexts framed by a Korean-American lens. When Eunice Kim’s traditional mother plays matchmaker, reuniting her with an old classmate-turned-handsome-but-engageddoctor, he explains his lukewarm companionship with his fiancé as a product of ‘jeong’: an ambiguous term akin to love that playwright Julia Cho describes as “what exists between people who are so closely bonded that, for better or worse, each is essential to the other’s achieving full self-hood.” When Eunice searches through her moth-
er’s heirlooms, she discovers photographs revealing a long-lost romance between an unidentified Korean girl and an American soldier. The play employs a striking timeshifting technique to bring these photos to life before the audience like moving portraits, as actors perform the courtship glimpsed within the snapshots. Though the characters never indulged in so much as a kiss or embrace, the palpable intensity of the amorous sentiment between them permeated the theatre: the audience observed in complete stillness as the yearning soldier gazed silently at the girl beside him, boldly stroking her hair in tender admiration; they listened intently as Eunice’s old classmate recounted in a quiet voice the unforgettable touch her childhood violin-
playing had left on his heart; they sympathized with Eunice’s ex as he described the acute pain of her rejection. But after examining these romantic contexts, the story ultimately champions parental love over amorous passion. Neither the romance between the Korean girl and her soldier nor Eunice and her ex reach fruition; only the love between Eunice and her mother fully blooms as they learn to open their hearts to each other, demonstrating the incomparable depth of the jeong between a mother and child. For show times or more information about Theatre Espirit Asia, visit www.theatre-esprit-asia.org. Photo: Sheila Ivy Traister (left) and Tria Xiong (right) perform in 99 Histories. Credit: Paolo Dizon
Japanese School of Denver hosts fall bazaar
Brenda Velasquez Asian Avenue magazine
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Despite a bleak chilly afternoon, the Japanese Language School of Denver welcomed the community to its fall bazaar hosted on October 20. The JSD is a supplementary Sunday school for kindergarten through junior high students, offering a solution for Japanese-American parents who wish to raise their children in a bilingual fashion. The school was initiated in 1981 by the Japanese Firms Association for the original purpose of assisting Japanese nationals temporarily visiting Denver on business by facilitating the smooth transfer of their children back into Japanese schools, educating them through a similar Japanese curriculum. The instructors possess certification acquired in Japan and adhere to the standard textbook used overseas. The school is furthermore approved by the Japanese MinNovember 2013 | On Scene
istry of Education and supervised by the Consulate-General of Japan in Denver. Inside Sand Creek Elementary located in Highlands Ranch, 14 instructors utilize 12 classrooms to teach their 124 students weekly academic courses of math, science and social studies, along with monthly cultural subjects of ikebana, calligraphy, and tea ceremony. In addition to academics, the school invites special guests to give demonstrations on various topics like aikido, tendo, koto and taiko. Annual events include a sports day festival where students engage in traditional athletics like tamaire, a game resembling basketball. During the fall bazaar, children and parents perused hand-in-hand through a yard sale inside the gym filled with Japanese language books, toys and clothing, and enjoyed onigiri and green tea pastries in the cafeteria next door.
Cindy Yan becomes first Chinese-American CAHEP provides health fairs for Colorado’s Miss Colorado Teen USA 2014
Cindy Yan was crowned Miss Colorado Teen USA 2014 on October 27.
Dozens of girls and women, ages 13 to 26, from across the state competed for the titles of Miss Colorado USA and Miss Colorado Teen USA on October 27 at the Union Colony Civic Center in Greeley. Cindy Yan, an Englewood resident, was crowned Miss Colorado Teen USA, competing against 62 other teen contestants. Yan, 16, is a junior at Cherry Creek High School, who will graduate next June. “I am blessed to be Miss Colorado Teen USA 2014,” she said. “I will fulfill the title to the best of my ability and hope to bring Colorado to nationals as the winner! I thank my family, friends, and staff for this amazing opportunity! I am beyond grateful.” Yan is the first Chinese American to win the title. Her hobbies include modeling and also guiding special needs kids in playing basketball. Along with Yan, Eleanna Livaditis of Centennial was crowned Miss Colorado USA on the same evening. With scholarship awards of $29,000 for contestants and $45,000 for the winners, the pageants give the women a chance to gain self-esteem and advance their careers. Visit www.misscoloradousa.com for more information. If interested, apply online for the 2015 program at www.futureproductions. net/apply.
Friendship Basketball League finishes fall season with new champs
Team Short Bus wins the fall 2013 Friendship Basketball League. Back (left to right):Yungmin Mun, Josh Pak, Jinho Kong and Eugene Joh. Front (left to right): Jung Lee, Peter Bui, Gi Lee, and Amos Park.
Six teams competed in the 2013 fall season of Friendship Basketball League (FBL). The goal of FBL is to allow players of all skill levels to enjoy the game of basketball in a sportsmanship-focused competition. The teams played weekend games at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Denver for two months. The season culminated in the playoffs
and finals, in which Team Short Bus took home the first place trophy on September 14. “The league was great,” said Yungmin Mun, captain of Team Short Bus. “I made lots of friends that all enjoy the game of basketball. Can’t wait for next season.” The new season begins this month. Visit www.fblhoops.com for more information.
refugee communities
Colorado Alliance for Health Equity and Practice (CAHEP) provides health screenings to refugee communities across Colorado. On September 7, CAHEP organized a partnership with Grace Apartments to host a health fair for the Bhutanese and Burmese refugees. Walgreens and various nursing programs provided 175 flu shots. Working with Connect for Health Colorado, CAHEP also gave education for healthcare insurance programs for uninsured but eligible refugee families (photo below).
The below photo shows the strong interest and community participation at a health fair organized at the Queen of Vietnamese Martyrs Parish on September 22. Over 280 people received free flu shots; and over 75 were screened for blood borne diseases (blood tests), lung function, and cholesterol/ lipids. Working closely with Walgreens, CAHEP also provided education and awareness for the Connect for Health Colorado insurance programs and conducted pre-screenings for eligible families.
On October 12 at Hidden Brooke Apartments, over 175 free flu shots were provided and 60 screenings with blood tests, bone density tests, cholesterol tests were conducted. Most of the people were of Burmese ethnic origin. Education and awareness for disease risks were provided in patients’ language of choice (photo below).
On Scene | asian avenue magazine
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Not Your Model Minority O
What’s actually behind the low Asian-American obesity rate?
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According to the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS), more than 78 million adults, including 50 million white Americans, can be categorized as obese. Examples of obesity include an adult who is 5 feet, 4 inches tall and weighs 174 pounds or more, or an adult who is 5 feet, 9 inches and weighs 203 pounds or more. The new figures are the first to include estimates for Asian adults, and they confirmed that obesity is relatively uncommon among this demographic: less than 11 percent of Asian adults were in the heavyweight category. Compare that to the nation’s obesity average as a whole, which stands steady at about 35 percent. “It looks as if we don’t have a problem. But it’s a huge problem,” says Dr. Karen Kim, a professor of medicine at the University of Chicago. “There are huge differences where weight does not adequately reflect the realities of complications from being overweight. For Asians, you do not have to be overweight to get the complications for obesity.” For example, Asian-Americans are at increased risk for diabetes at a BMI of 24, according to the American Diabetes Association. And, Kim says, the risk for cardiovascular disease, another illness normally associated with being overweight or obese, can start in normal-weight Asians who have a BMI of just 19 or 20. November 2013 | National News
n October 8, Gregory Cendana, the Executive Director of the Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance (APALA) was arrested, along with two hundred other activists and eight members of Congress at the nation’s capitol. In photos from that day, he is seen being led away in handcuffs with a handwritten t-shirt — with the words “Not your Model Minority” scrawled on the front. While immigration reform stalls within legislative chambers, activists and community members have come out in droves to highlight its impact on their communities. The October 8th action was part of a coordinated campaign around immigration reform launched by eight national Asian American Pacific Islander organizations. Asians make up 13% of the U.S. undocumented population. The U.S. Office of Homeland Security estimates that as of 2009, the largest undocumented Asian populations are 270,000 immigrants from the Philippines, 200,000 from India, 200,000 from Korea and 120,000 from China.
youtu.be/AZXmeecqgoc
Comprehensive Immigration Reform NOW Asian Youth Speak Out
T
he Youth Leadership Council of the Korean American Resource & Cultural Center (KRCC) created this video campaign to elevate Asian American youth voices in the immigration reform debate. Featuring stirring and thought provoking spoken word performances from local youth, the comprehensive immigration reform-focused video will be shared with Congressional leaders. KRCC met and talked to young people and gathered over 1,000 signatures in support of policy changes.
Kyla Ross
First Asian American Gymnast to win All-Around World Medals
T
he 2013 Women’s World Gymnastics Championships was a battle of grace versus power between two American gymnasts Simone Biles and Kyla Ross. In the end, Biles triumphed by earning 60.216 points from vault, beam, floor exer-
Asian-American band sues government to trademark name ‘The Slants’
A
n Oregon band of Asian-American musicians that plays for Asian-American crowds has been turned down in its efforts to trademark its name by a U.S. Patent Office that’s worried the name offends people. The patent office balked the first time because the name is considered a derogatory term for Asians. The Slants argued the name referred to musical chords and that even if it was derogatory, they were reclaiming it, the way some black rappers have “reclaimed” the n-word. The second time the band tried, in 2011, they argued that the name had nothing to do with Asians, reclaiming or otherwise. “They said because of our ethnicity, peo-
cise, and uneven bars, winning the gold allaround over Ross, who earned 59.332. With her shining silver medal, Ross who is 17 became the first Asian American to medal in the all-around at a world championship. Biles, 16, became the first African American to win gold. “It’s so exciting to come to this individual worlds and win a medal for myself,” says Ross. Ross is of Japanese, Filipino, Puerto Rican and black descent.
ple automatically think of the racial slur as opposed to any other definition of the term,” band founder Simon Tam, told NPR. “In other words, if I was white, this wouldn’t be an issue at all.” Now the group wants a federal judge to force the patent office to trademark the name on the grounds that the decision against them was based on their race. “Their reasoning using race as a consideration for the decision under the trademark office...” Tam said. “Under almost every other government, they can’t do that because it’s considered racist.”
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Hali Xiong (right) wins the costume contest as Leeloo from The Fifth Element.
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November 2013 | Event Recap
Halloween Party |asian avenue magazine
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Covering One’s Eyes with a Leaf Seeing No Further Than One’s Nose Used to describe a person whose eyes are shaded by something so trivial so that all things farther or more important are shut out.
一葉障目
Calligraphy by Harrison X. Tu, Confucius Classroom in Denver
Once upon a time, there was a poor man who read a book about a mantis that would hide behind leaves while trying to catch a cicada. These leaves could conceal a person from mortal eyes. So the man made up his mind to find such leaves. He swept up a heap of leaves from under a tree and carried them home. Then he tested their worth one by one. Holding one of them in front of his eyes, he repeatedly asked his wife, “Can you see me any more?” “Yes, I can” was her invariable answer. Tired of being unendingly bothered with the same stupid question, one day she tried to deceive him by saying, “No, I can’t see you any longer.” Overjoyed, the poor man went to the marketplace with that “magic” leaf and helped himself to what he could lay his hands on. He was caught in the act. At the court, he told the magistrate his story. “But aren’t you afraid of being discovered by others?” asked the magistrate. “No,” the poor man confessed, “because when I cover my eyes with such a magic leaf, I won’t be able to see anything before me.” The magistrate burst into laughter and ordered his release. - Collected Jokes YOUR SOURCE FOR SUSHI-GRADE FISH FOR OVER SINCE 1944
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November 2013 | Chinese Idiom
Go Fish Sushi and Lounge
1 Broadway Unit B108 Denver, CO 80203 Tel: 303.733.8881
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