Asian Avenue magazine - November 2015

magazine

asian avenue Connecting Cultures Linking Lives

Single

in the City

November 2015 Volume 10 Issue 11

An Interview with artist

Etsuko Ichikawa

Fifth Edition

7 Las Vegas Things to do IN

Restaurant peek Mr. Kim Korean BBQ

Family medicine and urgent care services you can trust.

The Southwest Family Health Center and Urgent Care Center Family Medicine | Pediatrics | Women’s Care | Urgent Care

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Dear Asian Avenue readers, 2015 is flying by! We are getting ready for our Best of 2015 issue and need your help! Please send in your votes for the best restaurants and businesses in Colorado, as well as your favorites in entertainment this year. 2016 marks the 10th year of Asian Avenue magazine, and we also ask you to please send in the reader survey (on pg. 29) or complete it online (at www.tinyurl.com/ aam-2015survey). Your feedback is so valuable to us as we strive to continually improve and bring you the best content in every edition.

We are back this month with our fifth annual Single in the City issue. Thank you to the ten bachelors and bachelorettes who ‘put themselves out there’ and shared a little about themselves in our cover story. This is a fun issue that showcases the wonderful personalities and aspirations of young singles in Denver. You are invited to come meet these singles as well as other young professionals on Saturday, Nov. 14 at Go Fish Sushi and Bar in Denver. It is my personal hope that individuals who meet at our Asian Avenue events can build lifelong relationships—professionally and personally! In our advice column, Tom Shieh (who married his high school sweetheart 21 years ago) gives his insight for those living the single life; his advice is a helpful reflection for all of us to first look within for happiness. Oh, and remember to have good hygiene!

Our Editorial Manager Sarah Shirazi recently went to Las Vegas for the Kabuki Spectacle show at the Bellagio. Having visited Vegas throughout her childhood, Sarah knows there is so much to do in the city besides gamble! In this issue, she shares with us seven of her recommendations including museums and water shows for your next trip!

Lastly, if you love to cook, our staff writer Mary Schultz recommends Dale Talde’s cookbook Asian-American: Proudly Inauthentic Recipes from the Philippines to Brooklyn. Talde is best known for his success on Bravo’s Top Chef. I must get my hands on this book and cook up the root beer glazed pork banh mi with bacon! Enjoy Mary’s review and the rest of our November issue!

Annie Guo, President Asian Avenue magazine

asian avenue magazine

staff & support Publisher & Founder: Christina Yutai Guo President: Annie Guo Editorial and Marketing Manager: Sarah Shirazi Senior Designer: C.G. Yao Graphic Designer/Photographer: Anastasia Yagolnik Copy Editor: Jaime Marston Cook Staff Writer: Patricia Kaowthumrong Staff Writer: Mary Jeneverre Schultz Staff Writer: Brenda Velasquez Marketing Coordinator: Chun Guo Marketing Coordinator: Mai Choua Lee Photographer: Trang Luong Intern: Akemi Tsutsui

advisors group General Counsel: Michael C. Song Patty Coutts, Donna LaVigne, Nestor J. Mercado, Sum C. Nguyen, Alok Sarwal, Tom Shieh, John Yee, Nai-Li Yee, George N. Yoshida

contributing writers Harry Budisidharta, Denver Health, Tom Shieh

contributing photographers Ted C. Brummond, David Guo Photography, Alistair Banks Griffin, William Hereford, Richard Nicol, Lincoln Potter

on the cover Denver is a great city to enjoy the single life with fun activities to do both indoors and outdoors, whether you’re enjoying a scenic hike or visiting a Colorado brewery! In our fifth annual Single in the City issue, we highlight bachelors and bachelorettes that know how to make the most out of the mile-high city!

Photo by: David Guo Photography

subscriptions To subscribe, e-mail asianavemag@gmail.com. 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.

advertising

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Asian Avenue magazine offers businesses the most cost-effective way to reach consumers in the Denver/Boulder metro areas and beyond. For more information, call during business hours or e-mail us at marketing@asianavenuemagazine.com for our media kit and ad rates.

editorial To submit story ideas, letters to the editor or calendar events, e-mail 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 2015 | President’s Note

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contents

Book Review The eagerly awaited cookbook by Dale Talde is here!

Talde is a Top Chef favorite born in Chicago to Filipino parents. He presents Asian-American: Proudly Inauthentic Recipes from the Philippines to Brooklyn. In his first cookbook, he shares the recipes that have made him famous, such as the crispy oyster and bacon pad thai.

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Artist spotlight Etsuko Ichikawa is a Tokyo-born, Seattle-based artist who works in a variety of media including film, sound, drawing, sculpture, installation, and performance. Her work has been exhibited around the world, from Tokyo to Denver. Art has always been a part of Ichikawa’s life, and the concept of healing is a recurring theme for her.

Cover Story Single in the City: Denver has landed on the top of many lists for being one of the best cities for singles. In honor of the city we love, we celebrate our Fifth Annual Asian-American Singles Issue by highlighting ten young men and women in the Mile-High City!

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Restaurant Peek Located next to the new Pacific Ocean Marketplace in Aurora, Mr. Kim Korean BBQ is the latest to hit the bbq scene! The spacious restaurant has plenty of grills for you to get the most out of the Korean bbq experience by cooking your own meal!

EVENTS

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Event Calendar

NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

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Theatre Espirit Asia presents Coming to America from Nov. 21 to Dec. 6

CHEF’S MENU

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Soul-warming Thai chicken soup: Tom Kha Gai

LEGAL COLUMN

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The Asian American model minority myth is that they are all successful because of hard work, education and strong families. Is this true?

ADVICE COLUMN

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From contributor Tom Shieh, 6 tips for my single friends looking for that special someone

ON SCENE

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The Filipiniana gala fundraised for typhoon Haiyan victims

NATIONAL NEWS

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Munson becomes Oklahoma’s first

Asian American female State

Representative and Dr. Ken appears on ABC! HEALTH

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Why is health insurance important?

It’s time to enroll!

SURVEYS

29 30

Take our reader survey!

Help us find the best of 2015

Asian Avenue Magazine, Inc.

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November 2015 | Table of Contents

Feature Flights from Denver can be less than $100, which makes Las Vegas a fun and feasible weekend trip for Coloradans. See our tips on 7 things to do in the sin city, besides gambling. There are many buffets, art museums and gardens to visit all year round!

P.O. Box 221748 Denver, CO 80222-1748 Tel: 303.937.6888 | Fax: 303.750.8488

www.asianavenuemagazine.com

Find us @AsianAveMag

#AsianAveMag

u

events upcoming Society of Hispanic Human Resource Professionals Job Fair Wednesday, Nov. 4th, 9am to 12pm Denver Botanic Gardens, Mitchell Hall 1007 York St. Denver, CO 80206 Cost: Free | Register at www.shhrp.net.

Join the Society of Hispanic Human Resource Professionals (SHHRP) at the beautiful facilities of the Denver Botanic Gardens – Mitchell Hall for a job fair.

You will have the opportunity to talk in person with recruiters from leading companies hiring in Colorado.

And they are looking forward to talking to you!

cluding premieres, tributes, awards, parties, celebrity appearances and more. It’s an unpredictable and exciting movie marathon where you are sure to find a number of films that pique your interest. The Denver Film Festival is the largest film gathering in the Rocky Mountain region with over 55,000 annual attendees.

Special presentations and regular screenings will take place at the Sie FilmCenter and the United Artists Denver Pavilions Stadium 15.

those featured in the 2015 Single in the City issue of Asian Avenue. The mixer includes networking and activities to connect with new people. Make a new friend... or something more!

Asian Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner & Gala Friday, Nov. 13th, 6pm to 9pm

King’s Land Chinese Seafood Restaurant 2200 W. Alameda Ave. #44 Denver, CO 80223 Cost: $50 seat | www.asianchambercommerce.org

38th Annual Denver Film Festival November 4th-15th

Sie Film Center 2510 E Colfax Ave, Denver, CO 80206 Cost: $12 - $35 | www.denverfilm.org.

Ukulele Lessons and Just Talking Story

Enjoy an 8-course banquet dinner, raffles, silent auction, and celebrate this year’s chamber accomplishments. Learn of the chamber’s initiatives for the next year, and reconnect with friends and colleagues as we wind down the calendar year.

This November, “Come Sit and Be Swept Away,” at the 38th Denver Film Festival. It’s a film-lovers dream, with more than 200 films from around the world, in-

Asian Avenue Meet & Mingle Mixer Saturday, Nov. 14th, 7pm to 11pm Go Fish Sushi and Lounge 1 Broadway St B108, Denver, CO 80203 Cost: Free to attend

Tuesday, Nov. 17th, 1pm to 3pm

Aurora History Museum 15051 E Alameda Pkwy, Aurora, CO 80012 Cost: Free, registration required, a limited number of ukuleles are available to borrow Contact 303-739-6663 | jlira@auroragov.org www.auroramuseum.org Explore Hawaiian culture and history through music.

Attend a thirty-minute presentation about Hawaiian culture followed by a group ukulele lesson. Topics include food, dance, music and more.

Calling all singles for a night of fun, drinks and sushi!

Meet other bachelors and bachelorettes including

Navras - Diwali Celebrations Saturday, Nov. 21st, 4pm to 10pm

FREE BUFFET and 5 in Fan CLUB POinTS $

®

All new members at the Isle Black Hawk Casino will receive the following benefits: ®

Receive a free buffet the day you enroll after playing 30 minutes.

Plus, receive $5 in Fan Club points when you give us your email address.

Armstrong Hall - Colorado College 14 E Cache la Poudre St, Colorado Springs 80903 Cost: Tickets are $25, $20, $15 ($10 for students with ID) For more info, contact Worner Desk (CC) 719-389-6000 Jay Patel 719-440-0675 | Visa Tanikella 719-242-6206 The Indian Community of Colorado Springs in association with Colorado College Foundation presents Navras - Expressions of moods through dazzling Indian dances and live music. All proceeds go to supporting the Colorado College Foundation/ Innovative Minds. The event includes Indian snacks after the show.

1-800-THE-ISLE • www.theisleblackhawk.com © 2015 Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc. Must be 21 or older. Isle and Fan Club are registered trademarks of Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc. Valid for new members only. Buffet offer valid up to 30 days from enrollment. Email address must be given at time of enrollment.

Promotions subject to change or cancellation without notice. Please visit the players club or cashier services for details. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-522-4700.

Upcoming Events | asian avenue magazine

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Book Review

Book Review Asian-American:

Proudly Inauthentic Recipes from the Philippines to Brooklyn

By Dale Talde with JJ Goode

Reviewed by Mary Jeneverre Schultz

S

eeing Filipino Americans succeed in mainstream television, launching a restaurant in New York and sharing childhood memories is a tribute to all Kabayans (fellow Filipinos) throughout the United States.

From the owner of the acclaimed Brooklyn restaurant, Talde, and a favorite of Bravo TV’s Top Chef, comes an eagerly awaited debut cookbook. A hugely successful restaurateur, Dale Talde is an integral player in the ongoing movement in Brooklyn and across America, led by uniquely creative and hip chefs who are redefining food culture. Dale continues to shape the public dialogue around the “new” Asian-American cuisine. To that end, his book is not only a cookbook; it is a cutting-edge study in cultural fusion and the story of one inventive Chicagoan who understood the universality of food at an early age.

Talde competed on season four of Top Chef in 2008. He came in 6th place, being eliminated after his team (for which he was captain) lost in the “Restaurant Wars” competition episode. In 2010, he was invited to compete on Top Chef: All-Stars season.

He again came in 6th place, this time being eliminated when his amberjack stew failed to impress the judges.

Born to Filipino parents, Talde grew up both steeped in his family’s culinary heritage and infatuated with American fast food, from burgers to chicken nuggets. Today, his dual identity is etched on the menu in Brooklyn at Talde, where he reimages on the culinary fireworks of his childhood.

Talde’s personal stories are sprinkled throughout the book, from tasting his first McDonald’s hamburger to his humble beginnings. Other stories include his wok experience to a detailed explanation of MSG. Don’t stop reading after his biography; each recipe contains a personal twist, intimate accounts of how he encountered the food and how much it is part of his culinary list of favorites. Emphasizing the unexpected, his riff on pad thai, for

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November 2015 | Book Review

Book Title: Asian-American: Proudly Inauthentic Recipes From the Philippines to Brooklyn author: Dale Talde with JJ Goode PAGES: 224 Publisher: Grand Central Life & Style isbn:9781455585267 online: www.taldebrooklyn.com example, features bacon and oysters, and he gives juicy pork dumplings the salty, springy exterior of soft pretzels.

Divided into eight sections, the cookbook contains 75 recipes including the following favorites: • Crispy Moo Shoo Beef Tartare Sandwiches • Sausage, Egg and Cheese Fried Rice • Roast Chicken Dinner Lo Mein • Root Beer Glazed Pork Banh Mi with Bacon • Buttered Toast Ramen with Bacon and Eggs Talde even challenges readers to give the cookbook away if you don’t enjoy his favorite recipes, but his promise to deliver on flavors will make you keep this gem in your cookbook collection for years and years.

Filipino-American Dale Talde is best known for competing on Bravo’s Top Chef. He currently runs the restaurant Talde in Brooklyn, New York.

Photo Credit: William Hereford

w

Theatre Esprit Asia Presents:

COMING TO AMERICA

Theatre Espirit Asia (TEA), the Southwest’s first and only award winning Asian American theatre company is presenting yet another full evening of original works. Featured are three solo immigration dramas from Iran, Vietnam and China.

Jon Vogels’ Foundations tells of a brave young woman who survives the fall of the Shah and fundamental Islam, to become a successful architect in the US. Peter Trinh’s Boat Person recounts the harrowing fall of Saigon, escaping to freedom against the perils of the high seas - facing storms, pirates and starvation.

Maria Cheng’s Antecedents tells with humor and grace the Americanization of a precocious Chinese youngster, embracing her ancestors and American icons of football and celebritydom.

Coming to America is directed by TEA’s artistic director and co-founder Maria Cheng. The performers are Maria Cheng, perennial favorite soloist Peter Trinh and new to TEA, Lilli Hokama. Also new to TEA’s family of theatre artists are playwright Jon Vogels, lighting designer and technical director Brian Miller and stage manager Carol Timblin, and TEA welcomes back Lindsey Ladnier as costume designer.

Performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m., from November 21 through December 6, 2015. All performances are at the ACAD Gallery Theatre.

Left to right: Maria Cheng, Lilli Hokama and Peter Trinh.

Coming to America

November 21 - December 6, 2015 Aurora Cultural Arts District (ACAD) Gallery Theatre 1400 Dallas St. Aurora, CO 80010 Tickets: $26 at door; $23 with reservations; $20 students, seniors, groups 6+ with reservations Call 720-492-9479 for reservations.

www.theatre-esprit-asia.org

Nonprofit Spotlight | asian avenue magazine

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Destined to Create

By Sarah Shirazi | Asian Avenue magazine

TRACE 4218 | 2014

30 h x 45 w inches, diptych Glass pyrograph on paper

Ichikawa in action Photo Credit: Alistair Banks Griffin

NACHI | 2011

Glass pyrograph on paper, video, sound, cotton twine, wood at University of Wyoming Art Museum Photo Credit:Ted C. Brummond

Etsuko Ichikawa

Walk with Mist | 2008

Hand-blown glass, glass pyrograph on paper, video projection, filament at Bellevue Arts Museum Photo Credit: Richard Nicol

is a Tokyo-born, Seattle-based artist who works in a variety of media including film, sound, drawing, sculpture, installation, and performance.

Growing up in Tokyo and working professionally as an art project coordinator there, art has always been a part of Ichikawa’s life. Still, she thought it would be difficult to make it as a professional artist.

A trip to the doctor over twenty years ago changed everything for Ichikawa, when her blood work came back with potentially alarming results. This caused her to seriously ponder what would happen if she only had a month to live. “It was a wake up call,” says Ichikawa. Shortly thereafter, visiting a bookstore to flip through art magazines, the first page she opened was an advertisement for a glass blowing class. She attended the class on Noto Island outside of Tokyo in the summer of 1991 and fell in love with the art of glass blowing. After that, Ichikawa says, “everything started moving really quickly.”

After more tests, Ichikawa was deemed healthy. Soon after, she left her job in Tokyo to study English at the University of Washington and attend the Pilchuck Glass School in Standwood Washington, founded by world-famous glass artist Dale Chihuly. Ichikawa went on to work for Chihuly in various roles for eight years, where she learned what she describes as,

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November 2015 | Artist Spotlight

“the practical and philosophical elements to glass blowing.” In addition to Dale Chihuly, Ichikawa also admires visual artist Ann Hamilton.

Ichikawa’s work has been exhibited internationally, including at the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, the Ueno Royal Museum in Tokyo, the Seattle Art Museum, the Bellevue Arts Museum, and the University of Wyoming Art Museum. She is the recipient of numerous awards and accolades including the Pollock Krasner Foundation Grant, Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, and National Endowment for the Arts.

The concept of healing is a reoccurring theme for Ichikawa. “I’m a very spiritual person and I think creating art is energy work: you are delivering or transforming some sort of energy,” she says. “I love being in my studio and making things. Healing is very much a part of my lifework. Maybe that is why people sense it. People feel like my artwork makes them feel calm.”

Ichikawa describes the most memorable response to her work being at the University of Wyoming Art Museum in Laramie: “I had a solo show in 2011 called NACHI. It was one of the most complex installations I’ve ever done in a 4,000-square-foot gallery. It was also my first time in Wyoming and I might have been the only Asian person, or person of color in sight the whole

Etsuko Ichikawa Photo Credit: Lincoln Potter

time I was there. I remember a gentleman in a cowboy hat and bolo tie telling me, “I had no idea about Shintoism, but I have a good understanding of what it is now.”

The gentleman told Ichikawa that he was a Christian. She says, “I remember feeling that it was a rewarding experience to be a part of the country, talking with someone from a completely different background about my work. That stuck with me and I still talk about that after four years.”

Ichikawa shares that the best practical advice she has ever been given was from an art mentor over twelve years ago. She recounts being guided through an exercise where the teachers instructed them to close their eyes and think about their dream world. “What are you doing in your dream? What makes you most happy,” asked the teacher. Ichikawa says, “After that we had to write down what we want to accomplish in ten years to make this dream come true, and then in varying increments, three years, six months, one month. I still do this every year.” She pauses and adds, “This is the best tool I have in order to pursue where I am going.”

Etsuko Ichikawa’s artwork is available through Michael Warren Contemporary in Denver. Her work is also on display at the Republic Plaza Lobby on 17th Street in Downtown Denver through November 19th.

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

Single Fifth Annual

in the City

Photos by David Guo Photography

D

enver has landed on the top of many lists for being one of the best cities for singles. In honor of the city we love, we celebrate our Fifth Annual Asian-American Singles Issue by highlighting ten 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 what fun it is to be single in Denver. More than a bustling nightlife and dynamic bar scene, Denver has scenic parks, gorgeous mountains, and a myriad of adventures to enjoy outdoors.

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November 2015 | Cover Story

Describes herself as: Exuberant, vivacious, artistic.

Her greatest accomplishment: Living (surviving!) in New York City for two years - I moved without knowing anyone and got my dream job at the time - an international trade reporter. I leveraged my Colorado State University alumni connections and got lucky meeting someone who opened the door for me.

Her perfect date: Bonding over a good meal. I love music and dancing as well.

Qualities that attract her: I am attracted to someone who is a good listener, someone who is spiritual, and someone who has an appreciation for art and culture.

What no one realizes about her: I am more inclined to chill out than go out.

Greatest influence on her growing up: My parents instilled a strong work ethic and the value of being fiercely independent. Growing up in Fort Collins, I didn’t have many in-person role models for Asian-American professional women, so seeing my mom struggle with her career path motivated me to be successful in my work.

Favorite food: I love pho and paella.

Emily Hosoya, 26 Japanese/Vietnamese Web Designer

Quote she lives by: “Wherever you go, there you are.”

Describes himself as: A gamer, passionate, curious.

His greatest accomplishment: I created my own game design company with 25 employees. I always said I would do it, and I did!

What no one realizes about him: Although I put on a tough face and can seem abrasive to other people, I am actually very caring. My closest friends know that I would drop everything and rush to their side if they needed anything. In the words of my Oakland roots, I am a “ride or die.”

Favorite food: It’s a close tie between two things: one is the quintessential pho because my father spent a lot of time in Vietnam and has given me his love for pho; the second is scallion pancakes, especially the ones that are made from a specific stall in Danshui, Taiwan.

Kevin Lam, 23 Taiwanese Kitchen Manager

In his free time: Meditating, reading, taking online courses to increase my knowledge, playing video games, and hanging out with friends.

Quote he lives by: “A day without laughter is a day wasted.” - Charlie Chaplin

Single in the City | asian avenue magazine

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Describes herself as: Joyful, compassionate, optimistic.

Her greatest accomplishment: Caring for children... in my family, at the hospital, in the community, around the world. It is my life’s mission. One of the things I’m most proud of is fighting to bring a young boy back from Nicaragua to the U.S. for life-saving cancer treatment.

Three years later, he’s thriving!

Favorite food: Strawberry rhubarb pie. I. Can’t. Resist.

Her perfect date: One in which conversation is easy and not forced and even the silences are comfortable no matter what we’re doing, whether it’s going to dinner, a movie, a concert, a theme park, a football game, or on a hike.

Meena Julapalli, 35 Indian Pediatric Dermatologist

What no one realizes about her: That I’m always willing to try something new and in so doing, have discovered lots of hidden talents, ranging anywhere from singing, dancing, playing instruments, painting, cooking...making entertaining YouTube videos...

Can’t live without: Music. It’s in my soul.

Quote she lives by: “Your life is a song to the world.

Make it one people can dance to.” - Kid President

Describes himself as: Driven, passionate, funny.

Greatest influence on him growing up: My parents were my biggest influence. They never let me quit and always pushed me to move forward.

Favorite food: I love Italian food and Mexican food.

His perfect date: Something unconventional, exciting and fun. One of the best dates I have ever been on was completely random. Everything we did was spontaneous.

Qualities that attract him: Someone who is full of life, honest, committed to always growing, dedicated to their work in the world, supportive, takes responsibility for their actions, and finds the humor in a situation.neness.

In his free time: I enjoy creating art. I also love to explore and try new things. I am currently learning Korean.

I also love golf, even though it is frustrating.

What no one realizes about him: I am really good at karaoke. Probably the best you’ve ever seen.

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Biggest risk he’s taken: I decided to invest in my best friend’s company. We weren’t sure if it would be successful, but I believed in him and everything turned out great!

David Campbell, 29

Quote he lives by: “You can’t stop the waves. But you can learn to surf.”

Self-employed, Digital Artist

November 2015 | Cover Story

Korean

Describes himself as: Genuine, cooperative, motivated.

Greatest influence on him growing up: My parents. They ran into many obstacles throughout my childhood but in the end, it was about caring for my brother and me. They showed me life hacks to make life easier, the simple things to make me genuinely happier, and gave me the heart to be a decent human being.

Favorite food: Wontons or dumplings. They are neat, bite-sized delivery packages for my mouth.

Anything with coconut is a close second.

Qualities that attract him: Independence, focus and direction are attractive, and someone who can still find a way to let loose and have a good time. I also enjoy quality conversationalists with ears that care to listen.

In his free time: Hang out with friends over great food, casual nights with board games and drinks, and going to see concerts or shows.

Quote he lives by: “Work hard in silence. Let your success be your noise.” - Frank Ocean

Philip Trinh, 25 Vietnamese Firmware Test Development Engineer

Describes herself as: Optimistic, intellectual, ARTreprenuerial.

Her greatest accomplishment: Launching my business and becoming a mother - at the same time. With support of the Rocky Mountain Microfinance Institute, family/friends, and business mentors I am raising both my son and company with passion, love, and enthusiasm.

In her free time: I love to dance to hip hop, salsa and bachata. I also love to write and self reflect.

Her perfect date: If there is laughing, good conversation, and attraction then that is a perfect date.

Location and activity isn’t as important as the company.

Qualities that attract her: Positive energy, deep thinking, connection to people, multicultural, health conscious and artistic.

What no one realizes about her: How intuitive I am.

Kimberly Hua Ford, 26

Biggest risk she’s taken: Moving to Puerto Rico without knowing anyone there when I was 20. It was one of the craziest yet best decisions I have ever made.

Chinese/Puerto Rican

Quote she lives by: “Be the love you wish to see in the world.”

Owner/Founder, InVinity Productions Single in the City | asian avenue magazine

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Describes himself as: Spontaneous, rebellious, passionate.

Greatest influence on him growing up: My amazing mother, and Jimi Hendrix.

Favorite food: It’s an ongoing battle between Texas BBQ and tacos, but yeah...BBQ tacos. Mmm. His perfect date: A hike and picnic in the mountains, or a concert.

Qualities that attract him: Independence, kindness, and genuineness.

Qualities he dislikes: Cockiness, fakeness, flakiness, and pretentiousness.

In his free time: I enjoy making music, listening to music, and seeing live music. I like camping and hiking trips in the mountains, climbing, Muay Thai kickboxing, and occasional trips to the hot springs.

Can’t live without: Music.

Quote he lives by: “Think like a man of action, act like a man of thought.” - Henri Bergson

Rocky Tran, 27 Vietnamese Sound Engineer/Music Producer

Describes herself as: Passionate, growing, brave.

Her greatest accomplishments: Dropping out of graduate school to start my own business, speaking at an international conference in South Africa, and speaking live on C-SPAN sharing the stage with President Bill Clinton and John Oliver. I achieved these accomplishments by using the principles I teach, which include: vision, mindset, and structure of support over time.

Favorite food: Most Indonesian food, including durian!

Also, sushi and Korean fried chicken from BonChon.

Her perfect date: A fun adventure with good conversation and lots of laughter.

Qualities that attract her: Someone who is full of life, honest, committed to always growing, dedicated to their work in the world, supportive, takes responsibility for their actions, and finds the humor in a situation.

Stephanie Tanny, 28 Chinese/Indonesian Certified Life/Business Success Coach & International Speaker 16

November 2015 | Cover Story

In her free time: Hike, play with my dog, swim, read, dance, go on adventures, and watch sci-fi/fantasy movies.

Can’t live without: Animals.

Quote she lives by: “You can fail at what you don’t want, so you might as well take a chance on doing what you love.” - Jim Carrey

Describes herself as: Spontaneous, goofy, loyal.

Her greatest accomplishment: I got a job out of college despite graduating with a sociology degree.

I entered a fellowship program that helped me get into the nonprofit arena.

Greatest influence on her growing up: My family.

Schools she attended: Smoky Hill High School and Colorado College. I loved learning about sociology from amazing peers and professors in college - they have changed the way I look at everything.

Favorite food: Pizza!

Her perfect date: With a pizza. Just kidding.

Hitting up the dine-in AMC theater!

Qualities that attract her: A good sense of humor, good listening skills, and spontaneity.

In her free time: Chill, go out with family and friends, read, and sleep.

What no one realizes about her: I’m a professional traffic and shower singer.

Quote she lives by: “Trying is having the intention to fail.”

Aditi Ramaswami, 23 Indian Public health policy

Describes himself as: Humble, funny, friendly.

His greatest accomplishment: Rebuilding my project car to run a quarter mile in 11 seconds.

Greatest influence on him growing up: Bruce Lee. Favorite food: Pho and steak.

His perfect date: Going out for a nice dinner, having a few drinks, and then enjoying a nice walk to look at the stars.

Qualities that attract him: A nice smile, someone who is fun and has an outgoing personality.

In his free time: I like working out, boxing, walking and enjoying the outdoors.

Derek Her, 28 Hmong NursING

Biggest risk he’s taken: Moving to Colorado from Minnesota.

Can’t live without: Hmong food and pho.

Quote he lives by: ”A true champion can adapt to anything.”

Come meet the singles at our annual meet and mingle mixer on Saturday, Nov. 14, 7pm to 11pm at Go Fish Bar and Lounge, 1 Broadway, B108 in Denver. More info on Facebook.

Single in the City | asian avenue magazine

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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

12201 E. Mississippi Ave. Aurora, CO 80012

W

hen word spread last month that a new Korean BBQ restaurant opened in the shopping center of the Pacific Ocean Marketplace in Aurora, it wasn’t long before we stopped by Mr. Kim’s Korean BBQ to check it out.

Inside the restaurant is spacious, with over three hundred seats. Several televisions are mounted on the orange and white accent walls that line the perimeter of the restaurant. There’s a grill at almost every table and a stainless steel hood overhead to suck the fumes from the top, rather the bottom, which according to the waiter, helps keep the meat more flavorful.

Grilling the meat is half the fun when dining out for Korean BBQ, and Mr. Kim’s offers 20 BBQ options to choose from.

The marinated beef bulgogi is at the top of the list to try. The tender rib-eye beef is marinated for a few hours in a delightful mixture of soy sauce, gochugaru (coarse Korean hot pepper flakes), sesame oil, kiwi, pear, and Fuji apples to keep the meat incredibly moist and flavorful after it comes off the grill.

Mr. Kim’s doesn’t only specialize in Korean BBQ, but they also literally offer pages of traditional Korean favorites on their menu, like Bibimbap (served cold) and Dolsot Bibimbap (served warm), each come served in a large bowl filled to the brim with a layer of short grain rice, Korean bean sprouts, squash, carrots, mushrooms, a fried egg, and dried

Mr. Kim’s Korean BBQ

Hours: MON - SAT: 11 AM - 10 PM SUN: 12 PM - 10 PM CLOSED mon-SAT from 2:30 pm - 5 PM

By Sarah Shirazi Photos by Anastasia Yagolnik seaweed to top it all off. The waiter provided special instructions, “mix it all together before you dig in,” which I had never done when eating Bibimbap. I appreciated the tip, because I could taste each ingredient with each bite.

For something different try the Chapachae Noodles, a traditional Korean appetizer that has layers of textures from a variety of ingredient including the clear potato noodles with jelly-like consistency, green onions, a variety of mushrooms, eggs, cabbage, and rib eye steak.

Soup lovers must try the Taro-gukbap soup, a hearty beef soup with deep, rich, flavors and spicy broth, flavored from the chili oil and chili powder. The mixture of beef short rib, radishes, green onion and bracken fern (coarse fern plant) is well balanced, with equal pars meat and vegetables, which leave you feeling warm and well nourished afterwards.

Korean food is healthy and you can feel less guilty for feasting — the rich meats are balanced with the variety of vegetables, especially the 10-14 side dishes offered with each meal, including a selection of pickles, squash, radish and turnip kimchi, seaweed salad, rich and cold potato salad, and a list of other delicious sides.

Mr. Kim’s offers something for everyone, and with high quality ingredients and delicious food at affordable prices, it promises to be around for the long haul.

Taro-gukbap soup, a hearty beef soup with deep, rich, flavors and spicy broth.

Restaurant Peek | asian avenue magazine

19

Tom Kha Gai

By Patricia Kaowthumrong

Soul-Warming T hai Chicken Soup

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hile soups are often associated with cold weather in American cuisine, Thais serve soup year-round, like they do in many other Asian cuisines.

Even in the sweltering 90-degree Bangkok heat, patrons are always slurping steaming bowls of noodles, curries, stews and other brothy dishes sold by street vendors alfresco.

Additionally, complete Thai meals typically encompass one liquid dish, which is served family style with a variety of other dishes. Thai chicken soup or Tom Kha Gai is so hearty that it could definitely be considered a meal in itself — but it is excellent served with a pot of white jasmine rice and a plate of stir-fried vegetables.

Here’s a variation of my mama’s original recipe (serves four).

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November 2015 | Chef’s Menu

Ingredients serves four

• 3-inch piece of fresh ginger or galangal • 4 cups chicken stock • 1 stalk of lemongrass, cut into 3-inch stalks • 2 kaffir lime leaves • 1 tsp. salt • 1 tsp. sugar • 1 tsp. fish sauce • 4 deboned chicken thighs, thinly sliced (about 1 lb.)

• 4 oz. shitake or oyster mushrooms, sliced (canned also works) • 4 oz. can of bamboo shoots • 1 cup coconut milk • 2 tsp. fresh lime juice • 1 handful of chopped fresh cilantro and extra to garnish

Method

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ring broth to a boil. Using the back of a knife, smash the ginger or galangal and lemongrass. Add to them to the broth with the kaffir lime leaves, salt, sugar and fish sauce. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes.

Strain broth and bring back to boil. Add chicken, mushrooms and bamboo shoots. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes until the chicken is done and the mushrooms are soft.

Mix in coconut milk, lime juice and cilantro.

If you like your soup a bit creamier, decrease the amount of chicken broth and stir in more coconut milk. Serve steaming hot garnished with the extra cilantro and a side of hot chili oil (if you like it spicy).

Bringing the ramen culture to Denver!

RAMEN YAKITORI SUSHI OPEN

Mon-Thu & Sat: 5pm - 1am Fri: 5pm - 2am | Sun: 4pm - 10pm 48 parking spots available behind the building!

Double Happy Hours!

(Dine in only)

Daily 5pm to 6pm | 10pm to close Sushi $2 Hakushika Hot Sake (sm) $2 Japanese Beer (sm) $3 Selected Hand Roll $3 and more!

2907 Huron St. Unit 103 | Denver, CO 80202 | Tel: 720.639.2911

www.mytokio.com

illions of people travel great distances to visit Las Vegas each year, and if you’re anything like me, you’ll find any excuse to go. Whether you like to go all out or keep it low-key, there’s no shortage of things to do in Las Vegas. Here is a list of seven things to do during your next trip to Las Vegas!

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1. Take a stroll through the Conservatory & Botanical

Gardens at the Bellagio Hotel Treat yourself to this unrivaled attraction’s dynamic zest for the holidays, Chinese New Year, spring, summer, and fall. The attention to detail is astounding. The passionate display of nature in all its awe-evoking glory - truly sensational! Let your imagination wander as you take a leisurely stroll amongst rare natural finds selected distinctively for Bellagio from all over the world. Admire the essence of every season recreated with gorgeous plants, flowers and trees artfully arranged, designed to inspire. Unique lighting spotlights every flower to accentuate its best features.

To ensure the Conservatory & Botanical Gardens maintains magnificence 365 days a year, 140 expert horticulturists theatrically arrange gazebos, bridges, ponds and water features uniquely for each season. Current Exhibit: Artistry of Autumn on display through Nov. 27, 2015.

2. Eat at a buffet

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Viva Las

Recommendations for You

1

Back in the day on family vacations, we used to wait in hour-long lines to eat at The Mirage’s buffet. Today, the Cravings Buffet at The Mirage is still is one of the best buffets on the strip, with 11 international cooking stations. The buffet at Wynn was recently voted as Las Vegas’ best buffet with samples to taste from around the world. 15 live-action cooking stations present freshly grilled meats and sausages, seafood and a variety of ethnic cuisines. The Sweetshop Station sets up the grand finale featuring a gelato bar and an assortment of cakes and confections made daily by the Wynn’s talented pastry chefs. Not to miss.

3. Get to know Picasso a little better

Picasso fans are in for a real treat. On display through Jan. 10, 2016 at the Bellagio Gallery of Fine Art, “Picasso: Creatures & Creativity” features 43 art works from Picasso’s private collection. The exhibit is designed to take guests on a step-by-step journey through the famed artist’s creative process. The exhibit showcases 19 lithographs, 13 linocuts, eight paintings and three rare plates, each telling a different story. Picasso drew inspiration from his life experiences: the women around him had a tremendous influence on his art, which changed whenever a new muse entered his life. The various mediums he used to share his sentiments and influences spanned multiple periods.

Tickets are $19; for more information, call 877-957-9777 or visit www.bellagio.com/bgfa. Hours: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.

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4. Never Enough Noodles

If you find yourself craving authentic Asian food prepared in a traditional kitchen like you would find in Asia, head straight to Noodles in the Bellagio where award-winning designer Tony Chi put his restaurant concept on full display. Noodles are artfully placed throughout the

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November 2015 | Feature

3

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as Vegas!

restaurant, creating the sensation of dining in a noodle museum. That’s half the fun! Open for lunch and dinner, executive chef Patrick Lee hits all the high notes of Asian fusion, serving authentic regional noodle dishes from Thailand, Japan, China and Vietnam. You can pick from a list of a dozen noodle soups, like laksa, mandarin beef stew, pho and udon. The full menu is quite extensive, offering something for everyone beyond just noodles, such as barbeque, Cantonese roast duck, or poached chicken in ginger scallions. If you thought it couldn’t get any better, it does: Noodles also serves authentic Chinese dim sum Friday - Sunday from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Your Next Trip To Vegas

4

By Sarah Shirazi | Asian Avenue magazine

5. Explore the City Center Fine Art Collection

5

The first major permanent collection of art to be integrated into a public space in Las Vegas, the City Center Fine Art Collection, is one of the world’s largest and most ambitious corporate collections today. The collection features work by acclaimed painters, sculptors and visionaries, including Maya Lin, Jenny Holzer, Nancy Rubins, Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen, Frank Stella, Henry Moore, and Richard Long, among others. Fully integrated into the architecture and design of City Center, guests can interact with important works of art—not in a gallery setting—but in the living, breathing spaces of City Center’s public areas, hotels and residential common spaces at the Aria, Vdara, and Shops at Crystals. Vibrant and ornate, intimate and serene, these works are strategically placed to fascinate and educate guests. Plan your very own customized walking art tour by visiting www.citycenter.com.

6. Enjoy the Fountains of Bellagio

6

Take in a complimentary Las Vegas show of water, music and light thoughtfully choreographed to mesmerize its admirers. All for your amusement, the most ambitious, complicated water feature ever conceived amazes onlookers against the beautiful backdrop of Las Vegas’ lavender sky. Each dynamic performance from the Fountains’ collection is unique in its expression and interpretation.

Fall in love with the stunning nature of this unprecedented aquatic accomplishment while relishing a clever concert of opera, classical and Broadway tunes. Daily shows are Monday - Friday from 3-8 p.m. every ½ hour, 8 p.m.

-12 a.m., every 15 minutes, and Saturday and Sunday from 12- 8 p.m. every ½ hour, 8 p.m. – 12 a.m. every 15 minutes.

7.

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Eat at Yellowtail Looking for the dining experience of a lifetime? Make reservations at Yellowtail in advance. Request a table near the Bellagio lake where you can catch a glimpse of the water show. The extensive menu of modern Japanese creations features innovative and delicately prepared dishes that are truly unique, poised to tantalize the taste buds of locals and tourists alike. Born in Korea and raised in Colorado, Chef Akira Back combines Japanese cuisine with a Korean essence using the highest quality seasonal fish and ingredients to create his delicious culinary masterpieces. Chef Back has been named “Rising Star” by Restaurant Hospitality and “Best Chef in Las Vegas” by Las Vegas Weekly.

7 Things To Do In Las Vegas | asian avenue magazine

23

Legal Column

Asian Americans: The Model Minority?

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n Oct. 11, 2015, the New York Times published a column titled, “The Asian Advantage.” The author of the column, Nicholas Kristof, wrote that, “It’s no secret that Asian-Americans are disproportionately stars in American schools, and even in American society as a whole. Census data show that Americans of Asian heritage earn more than other groups, including whites. Asian-Americans also have higher educational attainment than any other group.”

The column sparked a heated discussion and many readers sent letters to the editor in response to the column. They noted that Mr. Kristof failed to distinguish between different Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) ethnic groups and that he has perpetuated a harmful “model minority” myth that all AAPIs are successful because of hard work, strong families, and emphasis on education. This “model minority” myth completely ignores the fact that there are wide socioeconomic and education disparities within the AAPI ethnic groups.

Colorado is home to approximately 185,000 AAPIs. Viewing the AAPI population as a whole, it appears that they are better off than any other racial or ethnic group: the high school graduation rate for AAPI Coloradans is 85% compared to 77% for all Coloradans, the median household income of AAPI Coloradans is nearly $14,000 more than the state median, and 11% of AAPI Coloradans live in poverty compared to 13% of all Coloradans.

Moreover, AAPIs appear to enjoy optimal health, outperforming other populations on everything from maternal child health to risky behaviors to life expectancy.

However, this is not an accurate picture of the AAPI population. The experiences of the fourth-generation Japanese-American community are drastically different

24

November 2015 | Legal Column

from the experiences of the recently arrived refugees from Burma. Yet, they are all lumped together to make up the AAPI dataset.

For example, in the US, 6% of all AAPI report frequent mental distress, compared to 11% of all Americans; however, 21% of Bhutanese refugees in America suffer from depression, and their suicide rate is nearly twice the national rate. Overall, the percentage of uninsured AAPI was slightly below the national average of 16% in 2012, while 20% of Vietnamese Americans and 25% of Korean Americans were uninsured. Disaggregating the data is the only way to reveal these differences among the various AAPI ethnic groups.

Without it, we will not recognize areas of great need within a diverse population.

Readers who would like to learn more about the disparities within the AAPI community are encouraged to read the reports from “A Community of Contrasts,” published by Asian Americans Advancing Justice. You can obtain a free copy of the reports by going to the Advancing Justice’s website (www.AdvancingJustice.org).

Harry Budisidharta received his law degree from the University of Colorado Law School. As the Deputy Director at the Asian Pacific Development Center, he works with government officials and community organizations to address health disparities in the refugee and immigrant communities. He can be reached at Harry Budisidharta@apdc.org.

Harry would like to thank Aditi Ramaswami from the Colorado Coalition for the Medically Underserved for her help in writing this article. If you have any questions about the data used in this article, contact her at Aditi.

Ramaswami@ccmu.org.

6 1 2

3 4 5 6

Tips for my Single Friends looking for that Special Someone

By Tom Shieh

Begin internally. What you seek externally is a reflection of what you desire internally. If you are looking for someone to love, love yourself first. Enjoy spending time alone. Get to know yourself.

Be happy. Whether you are in a relationship or not, always be joyful and be filled with gratitude. When two happy people come together, they create a happy relationship. Unhappy people in a relationship will only magnify their unhappiness and insecurities.

Determine what you want. Write down a list of qualities in your ideal partner. Be specific. Even if you create a list of over 100 things and realize that it may not be realistic to find a person that matches all of those characteristics, this process will help you define your standards and expectations. Your list will also help you identify and filter out candidates that are not a good fit.

Say “yes.” When you are invited to dinner, coffee, or a social gathering, have an open mind and say “yes.” When you say “yes,” you open up the door of possibility toward the serendipitous events and opportunities of life, and magical things can happen.

Live YOUR life. Don’t shape your life through the expectations and perspectives of your parents, your friends, or your community. This is YOUR life. Wisely select the feedback from your sphere of influence as valued input, and be confident in the fact that you are unique. You are the person ultimately responsible for the choices and outcomes of YOUR life.

Brush your teeth. Take care of your hygiene and appearance. When somebody offers you a piece of gum or a mint, accept it with gratitude. You may be surprised that a little effort can go a long way! Physical self-care will make you feel better and can potentially increase your chances of attracting your future partner.

Stand up straight and smile!

Tom Shieh is blissfully married to his high-school sweetheart; they’ve been together for over 21 years. Originally from Taiwan, they have three joyful children together and currently reside in beautiful Denver. Shieh has a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering and master’s degree in telecommunications. He took a leap of faith and left a well-paying job environment to pursue his entrepreneurial passions. During this journey, he’s started 14 different companies and developed, managed and acquired over 150 websites. Through his successes and failures in business and life, he loves sharing his experience in a truthful and relevant manner as a national speaker, best-selling author and industry leader and has been featured on ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, and Forbes.

Connect with Tom at www.linkedin.com/in/tomshieh or www.facebook.com/tomshieh.

Advice Column | asian avenue magazine

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O

Nathan Yip Foundation celebrates the Mid-Autumn Festival

ver 200 people joined Linda and Jimmy Yip of the Nathan Yip Foundation on Saturday, Sept. 26 at King’s Land restaurant in Denver to enjoy a nonstop dim sum lunch in honor of the Mid-Autumn Festival, a harvest festival celebrated by ethnic Chinese and Vietnamese people. Coined the “Thanksgiving of the East,” the festival brings together family and friends for food, entertainment and celebration. Proceeds from the event benefited the Nathan Yip Foundation.

The Nathan Yip Foundation, inspired by the life of Nathan Yip, transforms the lives of underserved children through long term, direct educational programs, with an emphasis in remote areas of China.

During the event, several performances were showcased including a tai chi per-

Filipiniana Gala

A

By Mary Jeneverre Schultz

fter convening a conference, NaFFAA (National Federation of Filipino American Societies) Region V Empowerment celebrated through a fundraiser for victims of Typhoon Haiyan who are still struggling two years after the disaster with more than 200 in attendance of the dinner.

The gala fundraiser took place on Saturday, Oct. 17, during Filipino American History Month and was held at the Inverness Hotel in Englewood.

“The event was a chance to celebrate and remember all that Filipinos have contributed to this county including the 260,000 Filipino World War II veterans who fight to this day for proper recognition of their role in the US victory as well as the pivotal role of the Filipino Americans in the creation of the United Farm Workers,” said Donna LaVigne, who serves as Regional Vice Chair of NaFFAA. “The role of Filipino Americans in the US today was also highlighted including a presentation by Major General Antonio Taguba

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November 2015 | On Scene

formance, and a short video was shown demonstrating the Yip Foundation’s work and impact to improve schools in rural China. The video also included special interviews with Linda and Jimmy Yip, who explained why they started the foundation in honor of their son Nathan, who was dedicated to helping those who are less fortunate.

regarding his efforts for FilAm Veterans and the efforts by AARP to reach out to the Asian Pacific Islander Communities to ensure a full understanding of their benefits and how to make retirement in the US work.”

In 2013, the organization raised more than $35,000 in response to disaster relief efforts after the horrific Typhoon Haiyan, rebuilding Salvacion Elementary School last year in the city of Ormoc, Leyte.

“We also took time to remember our fellow countrymen who continue to rebuild from the strongest typhoon to ever strike land, Haiyan,” LaVigne said.

“The Gala was a fund raiser to help the international effort to rebuild a community center in Tacloban that will not only allow a ravaged town but can serve as a refuge in the event of future storms.”

Three lifetime achievement awards were honored at the gala. They included Corazon T. Aguilar, M.D., Erlinda Rojas Santos, PhD, and Grace Pena Morris. The organization also awarded Mark Perez as the outstanding youth leader. All four individuals shared a commonality, a passion for community involvement among their Kabayans.

LaVigne shared this thoughtful insight. “In this fast paced life that we all lead, the event was a chance to pause and recognize that so many contribute to not only the FilAm community but to all of Colorado through their generosity and commitment.”

Confucius Institute Day

O

n Saturday, Sept. 26, the Confucius Institute at the Community College of Denver, held a celebration in honor of the Mid-Autumn Festival. People gathered inside the Confucius Institute’s building on the Auraria campus for a series of performances including dance performances, Chinese songs, and tai chi and Chinese kung fu performances. Outside, the institute offered a variety of cultural activities including Chinese calligraphy, Chinese painting and paper opera mask making, among many other fun activities.

Art Performance 2015

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n Oct. 3 and 4, the Confucius Institute held two art performances at the King Center’s Concert Hall.

Students from Beijing Normal University put on memorable performances showcasing traditional and modern Chinese dance, Chinese folk music and dance, Chinese Instrumental music, Chinese Marital arts, calligraphy, Beijing opera, and modern ballet.

Cyndi Munson becomes Oklahoma State Representative

Congress marks Filipino-American History Month Rep. Mike Honda (D-Santa Clara Valley) and Senator Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii) each introduced resolutions recognizing October as Filipino American History Month.

“Recognizing Filipino American History Month in Congress is a testament to the countless contributions that Filipino Americans have made to our country,” said Senator Hirono. “As we celebrate Filipino American heritage, we must also

renew our commitment to recognizing Filipino World War II veterans for their service to our country, and continue to work toward comprehensive immigration reform that would reunite many Filipino American families.”

Currently, there are nearly 3.5 million Filipino Americans. 260,000 WWII Filipino and Filipino American veterans fought under the American flag at the request of President Roosevelt.

Kim Ng in line to be the first woman general manager in Pro Sports The Philadelphia Phillies are interested in baseball executive Kim Ng as their next general manager, reports The Korea Times.

Ng has an impressive resume and a 34year career working behind the scenes in Major League Baseball.

CBS Sports reports Ng is one of at least three candidates in line for the Phillies job.

The others are Cleveland executive Ross Atkins and ex-Marlins GM Larry Beinfest.

If hired, she would be the first female general manager in all of professional sports.

ABC Orders Full Season of Dr. Ken ABC has given a full-season order to the new comedy Dr. Ken. The network announced that it is ordering nine more episodes of the med-

ical series starring Ken Jeong as a general practitioner who tries to balance his professional and personal life, and who would benefit from softening his bedside manner.

Dr. Ken, the third new show to earn a full season after Blindspot and Quantico, is the No. 1 show in the adults 18-to-49 demographic in its Friday night timeslot.

Suzy Nakamura, Albert Tsai and Dave Foley co-star. Jeong, on whose life the show is based, is also an executive producer.

Cyndi Munson is a Democrat in a Republican state. She’s an Asian American in a state that is barely 2 percent Asian American and Pacific Islander.

So how did this 30-year-old political newbie become the first Asian-American woman elected to the Oklahoma state legislature?

Munson was born in Monterey, California to a military family. Her parents taught her the importance of service to the community. She first learned about state government in high school and became active in voter registration campaigns while attending the University of Central Oklahoma.

She joined a sorority for the leadership opportunity there, and to empower other women to take leadership positions. Munson became involved in the Girl Scouts and began tutoring disadvantaged youth.

While speaking to a leadership class one day, Cyndi Munson was asked, “Would you ever run for office?” When Munson said no, the student replied, “Why not? You’re passionate about girls and you want to make a difference!”

As it turned out, that student was a member of a political consultancy firm, looking to recruit women, minorities and Democrats to run for office. Two weeks later, that firm invited her to a meeting. They asked Munson to run.

Munson did run for office in 2014 and lost, but that experience did not deflate her passion. She set up a Political Action Committee to raise money for women to run for office.

Five months later, something unforeseen happened that would set up a second run for office. Munson won the special election. Now she is a Democratic member of the Oklahoma House of Representatives, representing the 85th district.

National News | asian avenue magazine

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B

eing healthy is important to everyone. One of the ways to stay healthy is to visit your doctor regularly, but without health insurance, visiting the doctor is difficult. That’s why it is so important for our community to understand all of the options available.

Health Insurance is Important There are many benefits to having health insurance coverage.

When you have health insurance, you can: • Improve your health and live longer.

• Get medical care when you need it.

• Have consistent providers that you trust.

• Protect yourself from big financial problems related to medical bills.

• Protect the health and finances of your family.

Health Insurance FOR the Asian Community Article provided by Denver Health

Health Insurance is Affordable In Colorado, there are credits and other discount programs the can help lower the amount you pay for health insurance each month.

Most people in Colorado qualify for some type of cost help.

Health Insurance is Required Everyone is required to have health insurance, and there are penalties that you must pay each year if you do not have health insurance.

Sometimes the penalty is larger than what you would pay for health insurance, so it’s important to understand your options. It’s far better to invest in the health of you and your family, than to pay a penalty.

Some Other Facts about the Healthcare Law • You cannot be refused health insurance because you are too sick or have a “pre-existing condition.”

• There is an open enrollment period every year. This sets deadlines for when you must find and buy health coverage. You can start buying health insurance on November 1, 2015 and must be signed up by the end of January to comply with the law.

• You can sign up for Medicaid or Child Health Plan Plus any time of the year.

• Check for qualifying life events that may make you eligible to enroll outside of open enrollment. Qualifying events such as: ✓ You lost health coverage (including Medicaid and CHP+) ✓ You got married ✓ You had a baby or adopted a child ✓ You moved to Colorado ✓ Your health insurance from your employer became too expensive for you ✓ You became a citizen or got legal immigration status

There is Help for You! There are a lot of Assistance Sites in Denver that can help you understand your options for FREE. The following organizations specialize in serving the Asian community:

Denver Health Enrollment Services

303-602-2300 | www.DenverHealth.org/HealthCoverage

CAHEP (Colorado Alliance for Health Equity and Practice) 303-954-0058 | www.cahep-denver.org

Asian Pacific Development Center (APDC) 303-923-2920 | www.apdc.org

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November 2015 | Health

asian avenue m a g a z i n e re a d e r s u r vey Our mission at Asian Avenue magazine (www.asianavenuemagazine.com) is to build bridges of awareness, knowledge and understanding between the diverse Asian Pacific American (APA) communities and the general public through cultural insights, pop culture, news and information. We are the only English-printed publication in Colorado focused on the APA community and culture.

This year we have so much to be thankful for. As we approach our 10th anniversary in 2016, we thank you for your support! To get to know better, we invite you to fill out our reader survey. Please answer the questions below or online (www.tinyurl.com/aam-2015survey) and return the survey by Nov. 30, 2015 for a chance to win a $50 gift card to Go Fish Sushi, 1 Broadway St B108, Denver, CO 80203.

To qualify for the $50 gift card to Go Fish, please provide your name and email.

Name: _____________________________________________ What is your age: What is your gender?

Under 18

19 - 25

Male

26 - 40

Female

Email: __________________________________________

41 - 65

Over 65

Other

What is your highest level of education?

Some high school

High school diploma/GED

Bachelor’s degree

Master’s degree

What is your income level?

Less than $40,000

$40,000 - $60,000

Some college

Doctorate

$60,000 - $80,000

N/A

$60,000 - $80,000

$100,000+

What is your ethnicity/racial background? ________________________________ Do you subscribe to Asian Avenue magazine?

Yes

No

How long have you been reading Asian Avenue magazine?

If no, where do you usually pick up your copy of the magazine? ___________________________________________________ Less than 1 year

Why do you read Asian Avenue magazine? (check all that applies) Food and Dining

Events and Entertainment

1 - 3 years

Travel

Health

Rising Star: Profiles on Young Leaders

Asian Culture

News

Other ________________________________

National News

Spotlight: People’s Profiles

Book/Movie Reviews

Restaurant Peeks

On Scene/Local News

Other: __________________________

How often do you read Asian Avenue magazine? Every issue (Monthly)

Upcoming Events

Career Advice/Legal Column

Inside Stories: Features on Organizations and Business

5 years+

For the divisity of voices/viewpoints represented

Which selections of the magazine do you most requently read? (check all that applies) Chef’s Menu

3 - 5 years

Here and there (Quarterly)

Most issues (Every Other Month) Rarely/Never

How do you read or connect with Asian Avenue magazine? (check all that applies) Print Website Issuu.com Newsletter Facebook Twitter Instagram Other: ______________________ Recommendations? _______________________ Are you currently signed up to receive Asian Avenue magazine newsletter?

Yes No If “no”, please provide your email address if you would like to receive the newsletter: ____________________________________ Are there any issues, topics or themes you’d like to see in future issues? _______________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Any general comments or recommendations to Asian Avenue magazine? _____________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ DEADLINE: 11/30/15 || Mail to: Asian Avenue magazine | P.O. Box 221748 | Denver, CO 80222 || Email: info@asianavenuemagazine.com AAm Reader Survey | asian avenue magazine

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asian avenue magazine Best of 2015 For our annual December “Best of 2015� issue, we need your help! Who were your favorites this year? Get them recognized! Share with our readers how awesome they are!

Please fill out and send this survey or complete onliny (www.tinyurl.com/aam-best2015) by November 18 for a chance to win a $50 Target gift card! Leave blank anything you do not know or do not wish to respond to. Businesses/restaurants should be in Colorado. Entertainment categories open to your opinions! If you have questions, call 303-937-6888 or email info@asianavenuemagazine.com. Help us spread the word. Thank you!

FOOD

EVERYTHING ELSE

Best Chinese:

Best Asian Supermarket:

Best Dim Sum:

Best Nightclub:

Best Sushi:

Best Karaoke Spot:

Best Ramen:

Best Church:

Best Korean:

Best Place to Study/Work:

Best Indian:

Best Hiking Trail:

Best Pho:

Best Sports Team:

Best Thai:

Best Asian-American Business Owner:

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Please return the survey by mail: Asian Avenue Magazine P.O. Box 221748 | Denver, CO 80222 or by email to info@asianavenuemagazine.com. Deadline: Wednesday, Nov. 18, 2015.

Best of

2015 30

November 2015 | Best of 2015 Survey

Aurelia J. Grinstead Broker/ Realtor

Member of: Filipino American Chamber of Commerce Colorado Association of Realtors National Association of Realtors

11859 Pecos St. Ste 200 Westminster, CO 80234 720-979-3049 aureliag@kw.com www.aureliaghomes.com

YOUR SOURCE FOR SUSHI-GRADE FISH FOR OVER SINCE 1944

PACIFIC MERCANTILE COMPANY

65 YEARS

Fine Asian Foods & Gifts

www.pacificeastwest.com

Store Hours: Monday-Saturday 9:00AM - 6:00PM, Sunday 9:00AM - 2:00PM 1925 Lawrence Street, Denver, CO 80202 | Phone:303-295-0293 | FAX:303-295-2753

Miracle Touch 30 min Foot Massage $15 30 min Back Massage $20 60 min Foot & Back Massage $25 60 min Back Massage$35

Massage & Reflexology

Mon - Sun: 10am to 10pm

Our massages soothe aches and relax your body.

Restore balance and rejuvenate your energy at an affordable price!

1004 S. Federal Blvd. Denver, CO 80219 Tel: 303-936-3888 12203 E. Mississippi Ave. #137 Aurora, CO 80012 Tel: 303-359-2622

HYL Health-Youth-Life Foot and Body Massage

720.929.2222 www.HYL-MASSAGE.com

3945-B East 120th Ave. • Thornton, CO 80233 • Mission Trace Shopping Center

$ 5.00 Off

for Deep Tissue Massage with this coupon Expires: 11/30/2015

Open 7 days a week • Appointments/Walk-Ins Welcome

DIVE INTO A DEEP SEA SPECIAL Now Offering a Selection of Sushi Rolls Prepared Fresh Nightly $ 16.99 : ET FF BU ER DINN $ CRAB BOIL: ONLY 5.99 MORE

MONDAY – THURSDAY (DINNER ONLY)

$ 24,99 : GS LE AB CR ALL-YOU-CAN-EAT

FRIDAY – SUNDAY ( DINNER ONLY)

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Buy one, get one FREE at Calypso’s ® Buffet Valid Sunday – Friday, November 1 – 24, 2015. Visit the players club or cashier services to validate offer. Must be 21 or older and have a Fan Club® card to redeem.

CONNECT WITH US 401 Main Street • Black Hawk, CO 80422 1-800-THE-ISLE • www.theisleblackhawk.com © 2015 Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc. Isle, Calypso’s and Fan Club are registered trademarks of Isle of Capri Casinos, Inc. Must be 21 and have a Fan Club card. Not valid with any other offer. Not valid for 50% off of one buffet.

Valid only at Isle Black Hawk. Gratuity is not included. Limit of one coupon per person, per day. Calypso’s seafood boil Monday through Thursday is not included. Seafood special add-on is an additional fee of $5.99. Management reserves all rights. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-522-4700.