asian avenue magazine
September 2013 Volume 8 Issue 9
Connecting Cultures Linking Lives
Connect for
Health
Colorado
offers health insurance plans
Anime explodes
in popularity
Wish of a Lifetime Lily, interned during WWII, receives wish to reunite with siblings
restaurant peeks
Shanghai Kitchen Dae Gee Korean BBQ
Sushi and Japanese Cuisine 1028 S. Gaylord Street Denver, CO 80209 Tel: 303.744.0330 Fax: 303.715.0336
September
SPECIAL
$5
Oyster Appetizer (5pc) Reg. $8 All Day Happy Hour every Tuesday! Now closed on Mondays. www.japonsushi.com FREE Wireless Internet | Complimentary Valet Parking for Gaylord St. customers (Half block south on Gaylord)
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5 TH ANNUAL NATHAN YIP FOUNDATION UNDER THE HARVEST MOON
DIM SUM LUNCH WITH SPECIAL LIVE PERFORMANCE BY:
MACHINEZ DANCE CREW
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 2013 11 AM – 2 PM REGISTER ONLINE AT:
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Dear Asian Avenue readers,
I had a blast playing in the AsiaXpress Tennis Tournament last month with many talented players of all ages. Kudos to Tod Nguyen and AsiaXpress.com for hosting the 15th annual event, battling through the rain, and promoting physical activity and sport in our community.
Each year, the Nan Desu Kan anime convention is highly anticipated. Many from across the state and region have been working tirelessly on their 2013 cosplay costumes for the September 13-15 weekend. This month, we highlight the history and growing popularity of anime in the U.S. as well as what goes on at conventions such as NDK. Thank you to all of the photographers, cosplay actors and anime fanatics who contributed to this story that truly only touches the surface of anime culture. Excited for the convention! Congratulations to Sean Choi, also known as DJ Lazy Eyez, for winning the Westword Music Showcase’s Best Hip-Hop DJ award. If you know Sean by day, you would know he works a full-time job in addition to volunteering with many community organizations. How he has time to achieve such success and build his DJ skills by night (and weekends) is truly a talent! Read more about him in this month’s spotlight and visit www.djlazyeyez.com for updates on his upcoming events.
Thank you to the Colorado Alliance for Health Equity and Practice for providing important information on the Affordable Care Act, health reform laws and insurance enrollment assistance. Beginning October 1st, you may be eligible to enroll in the new health insurance exchange. CAHEP will be working in collaboration with Connect for Health Colorado to provide assistance and in-person education, as well as determine eligibility of health coverage. If you have any questions, please contact the CAHEP clinic at 303-954-0058.
My personal passion is to support children’s health and education. September provides the opportunity to do both - and for children around the world! Nathan Yip Foundation is hosting a dim sum lunch to fundraise for schools and orphanages in China, Mexico and Africa. Uplift Internationale celebrates its 25th anniversary with a gala dinner to raise money for its annual mission to the Philippines to provide reparative surgical care to poor, rural children born with facial deformities. We hope you enjoy this issue. Please contact us with any of your story ideas or suggestions at editor@ asianavenuemagazine.com. We would love to hear from you. We are going strong into our seventh year of publication and would not be here without you. Thank you for all your support! Annie Guo, President Asian Avenue magazine
asian avenue magazine
staff & support
Publisher & Founder: Christina Yutai Guo President: Annie Guo Production Manager: Peter Bui Designer: C.G. Yao 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
Tina Fredo, Joie Ha, Jack Hadley, Jinny Kim, Peter Lee, Alok Sarwal, Natalie Sauls, Mary Jeneverre Schultz, Khanh Vu
contributing photographers
Kathy Bui, Nancy Chin-Wagner, Chris Gilstrap, Benjamin Lim, Tod Nguyen, Xander S. Trullinger, Jonathan Vanderweit
on the cover
Title: Final Fantasy X Girls Alice Smith (as Rikku) and Hailee Gruen-White (as Yuna) from Final Fantasy X dress in cosplay to attend the 2012 Nan Desu Kan convention. Photo by Xander S. Trullinger, tofuSnow Cosplay Photography
subscriptions
To subscribe, e-mail marketing@asianavenuemag azine.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 and 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 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
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September 2013 |President’s Note
Asian Avenue magazine is in association with the Colorado Asian Culture and Education Network.
Celebrate with us as we look back on 25 years of mending faces one child at a time in the Philippines. Saturday, October 12, 2013 Denver Marriott West 1717 Denver West Blvd. Golden, Colorado 80401 Sponsorship Levels: • Taghoy (Whistle) $2,500; Table of 10/Event Sponsorship • Pagasa (Hope) $1,250; Table of 10/Limited Sponsorship • Salamat (Thank you) $800; Table of 10 • Kaibigan (Friend) $150; Ticket and Name in Program • Individual Ticket $75 For more info, contact Beth Shepherd at 303-707-1361 or Info@upliftinternational.org. Info@upliftinternational.o
www.upliftinternationale.org
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Book Releases 17 The Ghost Bride and The Great Tamasha share
Restaurant Peeks 18 Shanghai Kitchen can’t be beat; one of the only
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remarkable stories taking place in Malaysia and India
restaurants serving Shanghainese food in Denver
Get ready to pig out at Dae Gee Korean BBQ All-you-can-eat BBQ, soup, noodles and more!
On the Cover
Anime culture spreads in popularity across the U.S.; locals anticipate NDK convention
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Contents September 2013
6
Event Calendar
Health 20 CAHEP collaborates with Connect for Health
Upcoming Events 8 Nathan Yip Foundation and Uplift Internationale
Colorado to provide education and assistance on health insurance plans
Spotlight 9 DJ Lazy Eyez wins the hearts of hip-hop music
AsiaXpress Tennis Tournament
Boog A Loo Youth Art Festival inspires youth to enrich their lives with art
Boulder Asian Festival shares Asian and Pacific Island cultures through entertainment and food
Forum on immigration reform establishes a need for community action
host fundraising events to support children around the world
lovers with the Westword Best Hip-Hop DJ award
On Scene Mile-high area events 22 Tennis pros compete, for fun of course, in the annual 23
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Rising Star 10 Richard Nguyen leads fellow students at the
Colorado School of Mines with humility
Inside Story 11 Wish of A Lifetime grants wish for Lily
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Westerlund, a Japanese internment camp survivor, to visit family in Canada
September 2013 | Table of Contents
Travel 26 Asian restaurants make their way to Colorado
mountain towns
28 Chinese Idiom
Golden Shanghai Asian Restaurant
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1412 S. Parker Rd. A-134 Denver, CO 80231 (303) 743-7666 (303)743-9079 (303)743-8210
Shen Chinese Medicine
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upcoming events Regis University Moon Festival Friday, Sept. 13, 8pm to 10pm Regis University Mountain View Room 3333 Regis Blvd., Denver, CO 80221 For more info, contact Peter Pham at pham057@regis.edu.
Regis University Asian Student Alliance invite you to enjoy many diverse performances, food, and scenery at the Moon Festival! The purpose of the festival, originally, is to celebrate the mid-autumn harvest in Asia, around the beginning of fall. The festival is a scene with a display of many lanterns and festivities throughout the celebration. Throughout history, the Moon Festival has become one of the most joyful events for adults and children alike. It has brought people of different generations and cultural backgrounds together. Inspired by such spirit, we provide the Colorado community with a festival that enriches the diversity of our beloved state. Enjoy the traditional performances of Arcinda, Colorado Asian Cultural Heritage Center, and the Filipino-American Community of Colorado. Other performers include Machinez Remainz and Hype 303.
Nan Desu Kan (NDK) Anime Convention Sept. 13-15
Denver Marriott Tech Center 4900 S. Syracuse, Denver, CO 80237 For more info or to register, visit www.ndkdenver.org. Nan Desu Kan (NDK), the largest anime convention in the Rocky Mountain region (excluding Texas), provides a diverse mix of numerous cultural panels, musical guests, games, dances, workshops, art showings and auctions, as well as screenings of new and classic anime. Nan Desu Kan is sponsored by the Rocky Mountain Anime Association. Weekend passes are available online or at the door for $50. Due to an attendance cap, pre-registration is highly recommended.
Network Naturally Workshop Tuesday, Sept. 17, 6pm to 8pm
Porchlight Real Estate Group - Event Lounge 838 Broadway, Denver, CO 80302 Cost: Free NAAAP Members | $25 Non-Members For more info or to register, visit www.naaapcolorado.org.
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September 2013 | Upcoming Events
The Networking Naturally In-Person Workshop is part of NAAAP Colorado’s ongoing series of programs to help business professionals create and nurture mutually beneficial relationships. In this interactive event, participants will be guided through a set of exercises to help them understand the principles of great networking, and in the process, make at least three meaningful connections to other participants. Speaker Carol Ross, Founder of Carol Ross and Associates, will share with participants: 1. Underlying principles of networking used by all successful networkers 2. How to create a meaningful in-person conversation with a stranger 3. The role of listening while networking 4. How to move relationships from in-person to virtual, to continue the conversation with key contacts Participants will leave the workshop feeling more confident and at ease in reaching out to others to expand their professional network
Sake and the City
Friday, Sept. 20, Begins at 6pm
University Club, 1673 Sherman St. Denver, CO 80203 Cost: $200 per person For more info, contact erin@cdbf.org or visit www.cdbf.org/sake-and-the-city The Colorado Dragon Boat Festival (CDBF) will host a fun and unique evening of sake tasting. Sake and the City will introduce Denver to the subtleties of sake with Chris Johnson, one of the very few certified sake sommeliers in the U.S., as a guide. Johnson will be pairing sake with various food courses and enlightening sake enthusiasts with his expert knowledge. The event will also include be a silent auction featuring, among other exclusive items, a pair of roundtrip tickets to anywhere in the world that United airlines flies.
OCA Moon Festival
Saturday, Sept. 21, Begins at 6pm
Star Kitchen Restaurant 2917 W. Mississippi Ave. #5, Denver, CO 80219 Cost: $28 per person For more info or to RSVP, contact Johnny Poon at 303 856-6981 or Benny Cheng at 303-888-0777 or e-mail OCAColorado@gmail.com.
Asian Chamber Golf Classic Friday, Sept. 20
The Ridge at Castle Pines North 1414 Castle Pines Pkwy, Castle Pines, CO 80108 8:30am Registration & Practice 9:00am Shotgun Start 1:00pm Lunch & Awards Cost: Single Player $200 | Foursome $700 For more info, visit www.acccolorado.org.
Join the Asian Chamber of Commerce at its annual golf tournament. Come play and meet fellow business owners. 1st, 2nd & 3rd Place Foursomes will receive awards and prizes. There will be other contests for: straightest drive, closest to pin, longest putt and a putting contest. Lunch is also included in the registration (or can be purchased separately). The Chamber will be giving out door prizes and goodie bags too!
Come celebrate the Moon Festival with OCA Colorado and enjoy a 10-course Chinese dinner and fun games! OCA Colorado looks forward to celebrating the beginning of the fall season with you!
Aurora Symphony Orchestra Saturday, Oct. 6, Begins at 6:15pm Seoul Korean BBQ 2080 S Havana St. Aurora, CO 80014 Cost: $60 per person For more info, visit www.AuroraSymphony. org or contact Angela Cho at 720-231-1331 or angelacho1019@hotmail.com.
Join us for a delicious Korean dinner as we congratulate Norman Gamboa, the new Aurora Symphony Orchestra Music Director. There will be a silent auction and performances by Christina Yeh Dance Studio and the Aurora Symphony Orchestra.
America’s Only Downtown Theme & Water Park
ElitchGardens.com
Open May 4 - Oct 27
Discount tickets available at the concierge desk.
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
Help children all over the world Under the Harvest Moon Dim Sum Lunch for Nathan Yip Foundation
Saturday, September 21, 11am -2pm King’s Land Chinese Restaurant 2200 West Alameda Avenue, Denver Tickets: $35 Adult; $25 Children under 12
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The charm of a smile, the pleasure of a whistle, the easy flow of speech. Children born with facial deformities are robbed of these functions of the mouth-functions we take for granted. In the Philippines, where public healthcare is wanting, the surgical care for these deformities in rural communities is unavailable, much less affordable. Children born with clefts of the lip and palate are at much greater risk than the general population for developing upper respiratory infections, hearing deficits and speech impediments. Nearly all drop out of school from the taunts and teasing. Since 1989, Uplift Internationale has been mending faces...one child at a time, through its project Operation Taghoy (a Filipino word for whistle). Founded by Dr. Jaime Yrastorza, Uplift Internationale organizes self-funded, volunteer teams of healthcare professionals and support personnel willing to share expertise and render care. Uplift Internationale provides reparative surgical care to poor children in the rural Philippines born with facial deformities, primarily with clefts of the lip and palate. Up to 100 children receive this life-changing care each year without cost to the patient or their impoverished families. Because of the tremendous impact clefts have on health, self-esteem and speech function, mending the deformities truly does change a child’s life. The surgery allows these children to move from the shadows of society back into the light of the community. Join Uplift Internationale at its 25th Anniversary Gala Benefit Dinner and Auction. The team will be preparing for its 25th annual mission in February 2014 and honoring Dr. Jaime Yrastorza with a Lifetime Achievement Award. Uplift Internationale will also honor each of its humanitarian awardees from past years. It is sure to be an event that is full of energy and excitement. The gala event will be held on Saturday, October 12 at the Denver Marriott West, 1717 Denver West Blvd, Golden, CO 80401. Tickets are $75 each. If you are interested in sponsoring a table, purchasing a ticket, or donating for our live/silent auctions, please contact Mary McNelis, Gala Chair, at 303-931-5725 or marymcnelis@msn.com. Visit www.upliftinternationale.org for more information. September 2013 | Upcoming Events
Join Linda and Jimmy Yip on Saturday, September 21 for the 5th annual Under the Harvest Moon Dim Sum Lunch, from 11-2 pm at King’s Land Chinese Restaurant, 2200 West Alameda Avenue, Denver. In addition to the fabulous Dim Sum lunch, entertainment will be provided by the exciting Machinez Remainz, a popping crew of dancers known for their robotic movements mixed with style animation and flair. Bringing together friends, family and supporters, the Nathan Yip Foundation’s now famous Dim Sum celebrates the Harvest Moon Festival with entertainment, food and fun—all to support the organization’s mission to empowerment and support vulnerable youth by giving them the tools to become productive, contributing citizens within their communities. “This event is the best way to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival with your friends and family and, at the same time, make a contribution to an organization that is making a difference in Denver and around the world in the lives of children,” said Mieko Bailey, a longtime Nathan Yip Foundation friend and supporter. The Foundation was started 11 years ago when Jimmy and Linda Yip lost their only son Nathan in a tragic car accident. The Yips, with a team of volunteers and friends work tirelessly through the foundation to provide educational access, empowerment and ongoing support to vulnerable youth throughout the world. The Nathan Yip Foundation has built eight schools and supports two orphanages in China; provides year-round aid for an orphanage and dormitory in Mexico; provides funds for a K-1 classroom at the Kibera School for Girls in Nairobi’s largest slum, Kibera; and supports numerous organizations in Denver including Project Pave, Colorado Heritage Camps for Adoptive Children, Colorado Uplift’s My Book Foundation, Summer Scholars,Asian Pacific Development Center and Escuela De Guadalupe and Denver School for International Studies. Make a difference and join the fun at the 5th Annual Under the Harvest Moon Dim Sum Lunch, from 11-2 pm at King’s Land Chinese Restaurant, 2200 West Alameda Avenue, Denver. Tickets are $35 for adults and $25 for children 12 years old and under. Tickets can be purchased online at www.nathanyipfoundation.org or by calling 303.817.8400.
25th Anniversary Gala Benefit for Uplift Internationale
Saturday, October 12, 6pm to 9pm Denver Marriott West 1717 Denver West Blvd., Golden Tickets: $75
DJ Lazy Eyez wins 2013 westword Music showcase best hip-hop dj Patricia Kaowthumrong Asian Avenue magazine
Learn more or follow him at: djlazyeyez.com facebook.com/deejaylazyeyez twitter.com/lazyeyez
Sean Choi, better known as DJ Lazy Eyez, lives by some powerful words, and has a successful career as a disc jockey to back them up. “You can pay for school, but you can’t buy class,” he says. Choi may have a master’s degree in business administration and finance from the University of Colorado in Denver and a successful professional career, but his passion for music is undeniable. Winner of Westword Music Showcase’s Best Hip-Hop DJ award in 2006 and 2013, DJ Lazy Eyez’s most memorable performances include DJing for Brother Ali at the SnowBall Music Festival in Winter Park and opening for Snoop Dog in Aspen. He’s also played at historic music venues such as the Bowery Ballroom in New York City, the Fillmore Auditorium in San Francisco and the Soundset Music Festival in front of more than 30,000 people in Canterbury Park, Minn. “I have been fortunate to have some amazing experiences in my DJ career,” he says. “I’ve been able to meet most of my hip-hop heroes, open for big names and go on tour across the U.S.” A native of Colorado Springs, DJ Lazy Eyez had his first gig in high school, when he was given the opportunity to take over after a DJ at his school dance didn’t show. “I ran to the car and grabbed my book
of CDs, and I played the music,” he says. “Everyone had a great time, and they asked me to come back and DJ the next school dance. From there, I was hooked. At the time, I guess I just loved music, but couldn’t dance, so DJing seemed like the logical thing to do.” Growing up as an Asian-American and a minority in Colorado Springs made hip-hop a natural way of life, Choi says. “I think being a minority in America has helped me to relate, understand and contribute to hip-hop culture,” Choi says. “I think being a Korean-American, I work extremely hard to be successful in every endeavor I pursue, because at the end of the day, you want to make your parents proud, right? However, as most Asian-Americans can relate, choosing to pursue artistic or musical interests is not always the ideal ‘career.’” Choi says he will continue to try to define the image of the Asian-American male, which includes battling stereotypes and projecting stronger images. Although spare time is scarce for Choi these days, he likes to paint, draw, read, and watch documentaries and films when he can find time. “I enjoy spending my time trying to experience what life has to offer,” he says. Be sure to catch DJ Lazy Eyez with his friend DJ Low Key at The Solution (www.DenverSolution.com) on Friday nights at Meadowlark Bar in downtown Denver on 27th and Larimer.
Above Photo: Sway from MTV and Sirius Radio (left) with DJ Lazy Eyez (right)
asian avenue magazine
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Richard Thinh Huu Nguyen
leads with humility at Colorado School of Mines
Khanh Vu Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers
When you walk into the room, you will not normally notice Richard Nguyen. He is humble and reflective. However, if you spend any time in the room to listen and see the interaction, you will notice that Richard is a thoughtful and perceptive young man. Other students who know him will usually seek his opinion. At the age of four, Nguyen immigrated to the U.S. with his family from Vietnam. He has strived to take advantage of the opportunities that are provided to him. Nguyen states about school and life, “School is definitely important to me. It allows me to learn more about various things to expand not only my perspective, but also my direction in life. On a daily basis, I always learn something new that makes me grow as a professional, as a student, and as an individual. School gives me a chance to learn about different things as well, sometimes even shifting my interests and direction for my future.” Currently in his last year of school, Nguyen will be graduating from the prestigious and difficult Colorado School of Mines (CSM) in Mechanical Engineering. As rigorous as CSM is, he has excelled academically, but finds time to participate in many organizations and hang out with his friends. Nguyen has many hobbies, but two that he was able to turn into a professional passion are his love of car and technology. His previous summer in-
about richard nguyen
School: Colorado School of Mines Involvements: Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers, Multicultural Engineering Program, Society of Automotive Engineers, Daniels Fund Scholarship Recipient Quote he lives by: “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” – Wayne Gretzky Richard in three words: Spontaneous, distinctive, leader Hobbies/interests: Playing music, photography, working on sports cars, snowboarding, and keeping up with electronic technologies or gadgets Dream job: Chief automotive design engineer Nguyen (right) is a SASE West Region Coordinator.
September 2013 | Rising Star
Being an Asian American has given me a diverse background that allows me to approach things differently.
2011-2012 CSM SASE Executive Board
Nguyen enjoys snowboarding.
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ternships with Toyota (his dream internship) and other companies have helped him gain valuable work experience, and he will be highly sought after at the career fair. Beyond his academic achievements and professional experience, he cares about the people around him, particularly the people who look up to him. Since he has led various campus organizations early in his collegiate career, he is able to be around to mentor the leaders who follow him. “As a leader of multiple organizations, one of my main inspirations is when I am able to see others grow and become amazing individuals. Often times as I play the mentor role, I will also learn many things as if I was a mentee,” reflecting on his collegiate leadership experience. Being an immigrant, he is aware of his roots. Nguyen states, “In many cases, being an Asian American has given me a diverse background that allows me to approach things differently. Having a different perspective definitely helps in many cases. In some cases, however, growing up with certain values has hindered me as well; I am very humble, a trait that does not help my actions and achievements get noticed by others.” He values seeing people develop to their full potential. Some leaders love the spotlight, but Richard Nguyen would rather shine that spotlight on others.
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I never imagined that something like this would ever happen for me. Natalie Sauls Wish of a Lifetime
Lily Westerlund
83-year-old Wish of a Lifetime Recipient and Tashme Internment Camp Survivor reunites with family in Canada
To grow up with thirteen brothers and sisters is a feat in and of itself, Lily Westerlund can attest to this, but to have spent time as a child growing up at Tashme (a Japanese Internment Camp) is an entirely different experience – one of which few have knowledge of. Lily Westerlund was born in Vancouver, British Columbia, in 1930. During WWII, after the attack on Pearl Harbor, the Canadian government evacuated Lily and her family from their home and interned them to Tashme, a Japanese Internment Camp near Vancouver. It was there they stayed for four long years, where there was no electricity, very little water, and meager rations of food. After the war, Lily and her family dispersed throughout Japan and Eastern Canada, and later migrated to Western Canada and the United States.
Employees from Wish of a Lifetime, a Denver based nonprofit that grants Wishes to senior citizens, discovered Lily’s Wish after visiting with seniors at the Washington Street Community Center in Denver (where Lily has volunteered for almost a decade). While talking to Lily about the hardships she’s been forced to overcome throughout her life, Lily’s Wish of a Lifetime surfaced – to travel home to Canada to see her family. Thanks to Wish of a Lifetime, on June 15, 2013, Lily set course for her home in Toronto, Canada, to see her brother, sisters, nieces, and nephews one last time. She hadn’t seen some of them in twenty years, and she met cousins of hers for the very first time. “I never imagined that something like this would ever happen for me,” said Lily, upon returning from her Wish.
Wish of a Lifetime™ Wish of a Lifetime™ fosters respect and appreciation for deserving seniors by fulfilling their life-enriching Wishes. Founded by two-time Olympic skier, World Cup gold medalist, entrepreneur, and former NFL football player Jeremy Bloom in 2008 in living honor of his grandmother, Wish of a Lifetime encourages the public to take an active role in granting Wishes through its Wish Connect program. Wish of a Lifetime has made more than 700 wishes come true for seniors in 49 states and the District of Columbia. 93 percent of wish recipients stated they felt their quality of life improved after having their wish granted and 76 percent said they felt their overall health improved after experiencing a Wish. Learn more and join our Wish Connect program to help fulfill a senior’s wish by visiting www.seniorwish.org.
Lily Westerlund, wearing orange, reunites with her family in Toronto, Canada, meeting some family members for the very first time.
asian avenue magazine
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f
The “Japanese Invasion”:
Anime’s Explosive Popularity in the U.S.
For decades, a phenomenon has been rapidly growing within the U.S. society, developing into a unique subculture. Japanese animation has taken the country by storm since its boom during the 90s with hit TV series like Sailor Moon, Dragon Ball Z and Pokémon. These series opened the floodgates for anime (pronounced “animé”) to permeate American society, reaching a level of popularity in the 2000s that has propelled the Japanese government to request the aid of experts in Colorado in understanding the reasons behind North America’s love for anime. For readers unfamiliar with anime, and for fans interested in learning something new about their favorite pastime, Asian Avenue investigates the history, surveys the evolution, and explores the facets of the multi-colored universe called anime. Not just for kids Christian Nutt, of Shojo Beat magazine once wrote, “Anime, a vibrant and action-packed style of animation that originated in Japan, offers a unique experience for those people raised on traditional Walt Disney flicks, blending together a high-tech look, multidimensional characters, and fantastical
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September 2013 | Cover Story
worlds. It is an experience not to be missed.” At first glance, anime, which features handdrawn or computer animation, appears to be simply Japanese-style cartoons for children, but anime in fact caters to a wide-ranging age demographic with a plethora of themes like love/friendship, coming-of-age, good vs. evil and so on. Similarly, anime spans a variety of subgenres from fantasy and sci-fi to horror, romance and comedy. These subgenres appear under the umbrella of two predominant anime genres: shojo and shonen-the former targeting a female audience with its focus on human and romantic relationships and emotions while the latter targets a male audience with plots characterized by action, male camaraderie and attractive female characters. (Although these binary genres are virtually split between gender-based target audiences, both male and female viewers enjoy shojo and shonen content.) Examples of popular shojo series include Sailor Moon and Cardcaptor Sakura; examples of popular shonen titles include Dragon Ball Z and Naruto. With its diverse subject matter and subgenres, Dr. Ian Condry, a cultural anthropol-
ogist and Associate Professor of Japanese cultural studies at MIT-and one of the experts called upon to research the anime phenomenon in North America-explained how “anime filled a space that was missing in American media for a long time—animation for teens and adults.” Indeed, the 1985 arrival of the sci-fi anime TV series Robotech demonstrated the versatility of Japanese animation, portraying an older protagonist growing up in a world of extraterrestrial invasions and battle-ready androids. In an interview with Denver Post writer Joe Nguyen, Kevin McKeever, vice president of marketing for the company Harmony Gold which brought Robotech to the States, described the specific elements within this pioneering series that appealed to older audiences: “Robotech…had serialized story lines and love triangles that rivaled the daytime soap operas… It’s an animated soap opera with transforming giant robots.” Accompanying this emphasis on narration, anime exhibits a strong focus on character development; within the first few episodes of a series, a character’s background, person-
Article by Brenda Velasquez Nan Desu Kan Photos by Chris Gilstrap ality and role are introduced via storytelling techniques like inner monologues, dialogue or flashbacks. As a result, viewers quickly acquaint themselves with the characters, forming a bond that invites them to experience the characters’ journeys, giving anime a vividly engaging effect. Manga: The jelly side Just as a novel inspires a film, an anime series is usually based on a manga-the comic book version of an anime. And just as a person may or may not read the novel that inspired a film, fans of anime may or may not read the manga upon which the animation is based. Shojo Beat Senior Editor Megan Bates offers a ‘tasteful’ analogy: “Manga and anime are kind of like peanut butter and jelly: Some people prefer just peanut butter on their bread, others indulge in jelly sandwiches, and the vast majority revels in the sweet, nutty combination-but among fans there can be no argument that, together or apart, the individual components are simply delightful. And you really can’t think of one without the other coming to mind.”
Dubs vs. Subs and the desire for authenticity Fans in the U.S. have the option of watching anime in English or in Japanese with English subtitles. Oftentimes, a sense of elitism can develop among fans who prefer subs (Japanese language anime with subtitles) over dubs (anime in which the characters are voiced by English language actors). These fans favor the original Japanese version over
the ‘Americanized’ one-a preference possibly fueled by a desire for authenticity stemming from anime’s North American history. Although anime had existed in North America for decades before the 90’s boom (the first Japanese animated feature to reach the U.S. being Panda and the Magic Serpent (1958) followed by the well-known TV series Astro Boy (1963)), North American distributors of anime initially modified the content through extensive editing to fit more seamlessly with American culture. This practice of cultural modification minimized anime’s foreign appeal, making it easier for Americans to approach, but once the population grew familiar with anime, its popularity began to increase and soon, many American fans sought the real deal, the original product. This growing awareness of and desire for authentic Japanese culture prompted North American publishers to reconsider their initial actions. Though at first manga distributed in the U.S. was switched to the American left-to-right reading format, in recent years, the comic books have been returned to their original Japanese right-to-left format. Additionally, North American distributors have advanced the accuracy of manga’s language translation with translators now providing detailed glossaries after the story explaining any Japanese cultural references made by the mangaka (manga author). Anime too, is showing signs of progress towards authenticity. “Dubs are getting so much better,” remarks Evan Boucher, a University of Denver Com-
puter Science major and Asian Studies minor, and President of the DU Anime Club. “Japan is becoming more aware of how important western sales are. They are translating and releasing titles faster than ever, which is good for both creators and consumers.” Through these changes, distributors are educating American audiences on Japanese culture and building a bridge between the two regions. “That half of the world is so different,” responds Boucher when asked about the significance of this education and its consequent cultural connection. “They have opposite solutions to religion, lifestyle, food, philosophy, entertainment. It’s really important to get that perspective, and it means that anime is always totally unique compared to anything else that you’ll see in the U.S.”
Anime aesthetics attract video game designers Although many mangaka harbor distinct drawing styles-some more stylized others more simplified-anime aesthetics generally portray an anatomically-correct and vibrantly-colored style of character design marked by expressive large eyes, tiny pointed noses, and small mouth lines. These iconic aesthetics have spilled into the realm of video games with highly popular games like Resident Evil and Final Fantasy exhibiting anime-influenced character designs-appropriately accompanying their anime-based storytelling emphases on narration and character development. asian avenue magazine
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Shojo Beat Editor Jenifer Morgan explains: “Pac-Man, created by Toru Iwatani of Namco in 1980, was one of the first games to incorporate immediately recognizable, iconic character designs-a cornerstone of manga. The Japanese also introduced narrative structure-another manga building block-to video games. Shigeru Miyamoto opened the famous Donkey Kong (1981) with a story. Modeling the game’s levels after a traditional four-panel manga, Miyamoto told the story of Donkey Kong in four scenes, using relatively well-developed characters and more-realistic environments. Later, in games such as Super Mario Bros., resolving a story (rather than just playing until you die or racking up points) became the primary goal. Final Fantasy (1987)…and other hit Japanese games continued to experiment with design and story elements based on manga and anime. Today’s video games almost universally include a detailed story line, along with character backgrounds, motivations, and progression-all of which contribute to immersive gameplay.” The installation of these storytelling elements and increasingly realistic anime-style designs (thanks to advancements in computer graphics) has facilitated stronger bonds between players and video game characters in the same way anime and manga fans form relationships with the personages on screen and on the page. Morgan continues: “Time marched on, computers got more powerful, graphics got even better, and people in games started to not only look more like humans, they started to act like them too. Now you could look at characters’ faces and tell when they were happy or sad. Even better, you were able to interact with the people on your computer. With all these emotions came relationships, and with relationships, games could be about more than just killing the bad guy. You could actually build digital friendships.” The year 2000 introduced a new innovation in which video games further attempted to enhance the realism of anime characters with a gaming genre called AnimePlay published by Hirameki Inc. Shojo Beat writer Francesca Reyes reported, “Like a ‘Choose Your Own Adventure’ book, Hirameki’s growing line of AnimePlay titles work more like interactive visual novels than actual games. Imagine watching your favorite anime and being able to call the shots at important crossroads in the story line via your trusty DVD remote.” An example of these titles places the player in a theoretical romantic dilemma: “Hourglass of Summer - ‘You’re just an ordinary boy in love with the most popular girl at your high school…but what if you found out that in the future she would die in a horrible accident? And most importantly, what if you had the power to avert tragedy and change the future?’” Because of this ever-increasing correlation between gaming and anime/manga, gamers and anime/manga fanatics are typically one and the same-all participants of the blooming anime subculture.
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September 2013 | Cover Story
Cosplay: A creative act of admiration Another method of enhancing anime’s realism is cosplay. The term combines the words “costume” and “play”, and refers to a hobby in
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Cosplaying has taught me a lot as far as crafting, and turning ideas on the screen and on paper into 3D textile outfits that I can wear.
”
– Hsing Tseng, University of Denver student
which fans don the costumes of their cherished characters from a comic book, video game, TV show or movie, in an act of creative admiration. The practice originated in Japan and has become a thriving culture in the U.S. with cosplayer communities developing all over the country. Anime fans who participate in cosplay begin by choosing a favorite figure from a manga, anime or anime-influenced video game and don the character’s full costume, including hair (with the aid of wigs, hair dyes, or simple styling), outfit (store-bought or handmade) and props (for example a sword if the character is a samurai). But the practice of cosplay doesn’t end at external appearance; this hobby challenges cosplayers to employ their best acting skills and imitate their chosen characters’ personality. Cosplayers perform the gestures, facial expressions and overall attitude of their beloved characters; as one Tumblr user named Kikikabuki wrote: “Cosplay isn’t about already being the character. It’s about becoming the character.” Hsing Tseng, a University of Denver Journalism and Asian Studies student who has written several articles on cosplaying, and who is a beginner cosplayer herself agrees. In her article, “Why I Cosplay”, Tseng explains how cosplay “refers to the act of portraying a fictional character in both costume and actions.” Since becoming involved in cosplay this March, Tseng has collected three costumes and is in the process of creating more to wear at next month’s anime convention, Nan Desu Kan. Within the cosplay community, the option of hand-making one’s costume is often favored over purchasing an outfit since the wearer can invest personal effort and love into the ensemble, particularly because the hand making process is an intricate and complex task, requiring great patience and work ethic. “I taught myself to sew with help of friends and other cosplayers,” relates Tseng. “Cosplaying has taught me a lot as far as crafting, and turning ideas on the screen and on paper into 3D textile outfits that I can wear…I try to make the most accurate and unique product at the same time; accuracy is number one but I take budget and skill level into consideration so I can’t always be the most accurate but it also leads me to be creative in my approach.” After choosing a character, the cosplayer must research the character’s outfit (the fabric, the colors, the shapes), research and purchase the materials needed, study crafting techniques, and finally spend countless hours-blood, sweat and tears-creating the ensemble. Depending on the detail of the character’s outfit, the process can take several months or more. “Cosplay is something that you commit to and realize that even if it’s really difficult, it’s something that gives a great amount of fulfillment and pride,” says Tseng. “Making something with my own hands, cosplaying grants me the ability to express more of who I am so it’s something I’m going to continue doing for as long as I can.”
Shani Hime and Leigh Harkin set up Stitch In Time Costumes’ booth in Nan Desu Kan’s Artist’s Alley.
NDK provides local anime indulgence Proud cosplayers eager to showcase their costumes and express their love for their favorite characters attend anime conventions where they can mingle with like-minded cosplayers and anime/ manga fans. Anime conventions have cropped up across the nation since 1990, when fans in Dallas put together Project: A-Kon, widely considered the first anime con in the U.S. Today, the largest conventions include Anime Expo (L.A.), Otakon (Baltimore) and Sakura-Con (Seattle), with smaller conventions in numerous states. Nan Desu Kan (NDK) is Colorado’s premier annual anime convention, spanning three days and housing a buffet of anime-related activities like cosplay contests, video gaming rooms, panels, art shows and dances. Convention guests include English language voice actors, animators and producers. “NDK is different in the fact that we are more homegrown, and so we put more emphasis on local interests,” says Jeremy Pieta, NDK Director of Hospitality and Technology. NDK is sponsored by the Rocky Mountain Anime Association (RMAA) which Pieta has been a member of for 14 years; this will be the 17th year for the convention. “The RMAA was established in order to create NDK, which along with its sister convention, the NDK New Year’s Eve Costume Ball Convention, are the two primary ways that we achieve our purpose of advocating Japanese culture in the U.S.” Shani Hime, founder of Colorado-based business Stitch in Time Costumes, is a vendor at this year’s NDK and a regular participant in the convention’s cosplay contest. Attending the convention has become a family tradition for her husband and children. “Last year I started selling my hand-made items in NDK’s Artist’s asian avenue magazine
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We have met so many dear friends, have learned so much more about anime, cosplay, and ourselves; and love the people, the environment, and the fun. I couldn’t imagine a September without NDK. - Shani Hime, Founder of Stitch in Time Costumes
Alley,” recounts Shani. “We have so much at the con we are part of now. We have met so many dear friends, have learned so much more about anime, cosplay, and ourselves; and love the people, the environment, and the fun. I couldn’t imagine a September without NDK.” This year’s NDK occurs September 13-15th at the Denver Marriott Tech Center with entry badges ranging from $30 (single-day) to $50 (weekend).
SANA: An expert exploration of anime’s cultural appeal in North America As mentioned in the article’s opening, the love of North American fans for anime has prompted the Japanese government to investigate the phenomenon with the aid of experts in Colorado. Earlier this year in March, the RMAA in conjunction with the Consulate-General of Japan in Denver held a day-long conference called SANA (Summit on Anime in North America) where academics, anime industry professionals and fans gathered for an intense exploration of anime in the U.S.
The conference held at the Denver Airport Marriott at Gateway Park, hosted 200 invited guests and a few members of the general public who gained entrance to the event via an essay contest. Presentations were given by six keynote speakers exploring the history and development of anime and the possible reasons behind its cultural appeal in North America, alluding to anime’s diverse storylines, quality aesthetics and captivating storytelling effect. A Q&A roundtable discussion between the speakers and guests finished the 8-hour long conference. SANA’s results are currently being reviewed by the Consulate-General of Japan and their colleagues in Tokyo but the discussions will soon be available to the public via podcasts on iTunes and the NDK YouTube channel. Until then, readers can experience the phenomenon for themselves via popular websites like Crunchyroll or Netflix, and join the conversation surrounding this unique animation’s explosive popularity in the U.S.
Wedding Party: Shauna Henry (As Queen Chrysalis), RaeAnn Williams (As Princess Cadence), Dawid Romanowicz (As Shining Armor) and Meevers Desu (As Princess Luna) from ‘My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic’. Photo by: Xander S.Trullinger, tofuSnow Cosplay Photography
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September 2013 | Cover Story
In The Ghost Bride Li Lan, daughter of a respectable Chinese merchant family, knows her chances of a good marriage are slim—her mother died many years before in a smallpox epidemic and her father’s opium habit has drained away the family fortune. Then, out of the blue, comes a most unusual proposal from the wealthiest and most powerful clan in town: would Li Lan consent to be the “ghost bride” for the Lim family’s son, Tian Ching, who has died under mysterious circumstances?
By Yangsze Choo
In the gracefully declining Malaysian city of Malacca in the1890s, where many cultures coexist under distant British rule, the city is full of ghosts and superstitions. Still, spirit marriages are a rare historic custom. Both Li Lan and her father are taken aback but intrigued by the proposal; such a marriage would guarantee Li Lan a home in the Lim household for the rest of her days, but at what cost?
Published: Aug. 6, 2013 Available on Amazon Invited to meet the Lims at their opulent mansion, Li Lan is drawn to the nephew of the family, Tian Bai, the attractive new heir. Then she begins to receive telling and sinister nightly visits in her for $17.48 dreams from his deceased cousin. (Hardcover) Determined not to be sold as a ghost bride, Li Lan must challenge her fate. With the help of a medium at the local temple she plunges into the shadowy parallel world of the Chinese afterlife, navigating its hungry ghosts and haunted mansions, where she encounters the mysterious Er Lang, a handsome guardian spirit whose own secret identity is one of the novel’s most stunning reveals. With Er Lang’s help, Li Lan will uncover the Lim family’s darkest secrets, the truth about her own family’s history, and be left with an unforgettable choice that will change her fate forever. The Ghost Bride, is a gripping literary novel infused with Chinese folklore, romantic intrigue, and fascinating supernatural twists—perfect for book club discussion.
Yangsze Choo is a fourth generation Malaysian of Chinese descent who reads and writes in Mandarin, Cantonese and Malay. The daughter of a diplomat, she moved to the US to study at Harvard as an undergrad and now lives in Palo Alto, California. The Ghost Bride is her first novel. For more information, visit: www.yschoo.com.
The Great Tamasha: Cricket, Corruption, and the Turbulent Rise of Modern India SYNOPSIS
To understand modern India, one must look at the business of cricket within the country.
By James Astill
Published: July 7, 2013 Available on Amazon for $19.64 (Hardcover)
When Lalit Modi--an Indian businessman with a criminal record, a history of failed business ventures, and a reputation for audacious deal making--created a Twenty20 cricket league in India in 2008, the odds were stacked against him. International cricket was still controlled from London, where they played the long, slow game of Test cricket by the old rules. Indians had traditionally underperformed in the sport but the game remained a national passion. Adopting the highly commercial American model of sporting tournaments, and throwing scantily clad western cheerleaders into the mix, Modi gave himself three months to succeed. And succeed he did--dazzlingly--before he and his league crashed to earth amid astonishing scandal and corruption. The emergence of the Indian Premier League is a remarkable tale. Cricket is at the heart of the miracle that is modern India. As a business, it represents everything that is most dynamic and entrepreneurial about the country’s economic boom, including the industrious and aspiring middle-class consumers who are driving it. The IPL also reveals, perhaps to an unprecedented degree, the corrupt, back-scratching, and nepotistic way in which India is run. A truly original work by a brilliant journalist, The Great Tamasha makes the complexity of modern India--its aspiration and optimism straining against tradition and corruption--accessible like no other book has.
New Book Releases
The Ghost Bride SYNOPSIS
In The Ghost Bride, debut novelist YANGSZE CHOO turns her pen to the increasingly rare, yet endlessly fascinating custom among the Chinese in Malaysia (historically called Malaya) of “spirit marriages,” where the living are married to the dead to placate a restless ghost.
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Green Tea Smoked Duck
Shanghai Kitchen Peter Bui Asian Avenue magazine
Chinese cuisine is not just one cuisine in itself, but consists of several different types that originated in regions across China. Each cuisine has its own unique flavors and ingredients, creating distinct flavor profiles. When it comes to the Shanghai and Szechuan cuisines, Shanghai Kitchen has been cooking these fabulously for more than 13 years. When Harry Zhou opened his cozy restaurant in the DTC/Greenwood Village area his focus was to serve up traditional dishes with some recipes dating back over 100 years. Zhou especially wanted to showcase the familiar dishes from his hometown of Shanghai and no dish is more representative of Shanghai than xiao long bao - soup dumplings. These pork dumplings are stuffed with gelatinized broth and when steamed the contents fill each dumpling with soup. The dumplings have gained widespread popularity in recent years, and Shanghai Kitchen is one of the few restaurants in the mile-high area that serves the juicy baos. The restaurant also has an original spin on roasted duck with its green tea smoked duck which is smoked for a few hours before roasting. The taste is familiar to most smoked meat, but in this case the delightful fragrance of green tea is lightly present. There are many worthwhile items on the menu but like most great Chinese restaurants, Shanghai Kitchen has even more amazing offmenu items such as their crab noodles. Clear vermicelli noodles are stir-fried with bits of crab meat, crab roe, carrots and topped with green scallions - a fantastic dish for noodle lovers. Another off-menu item is the Szechuan-style chili pepper fish; orange roughy fish is stir-fried
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September 2013 | Restaurant Peek
with green peppers, minced ginger, and chili oil and topped with a lot of colorfully diced chili peppers. The amount of chili peppers may look intimidating but it does not overpower the dish and provides just the right amount of heat. Zhou, who is also the head chef, has more than 25 years of cooking experience. He loves to create dishes with whatever ingredients he has available so the specials change regularly. He also enjoys coming up with dishes for patrons by asking them what they are in the mood for and then goes back into kitchen to create a customized meal. For those patrons that may not know what “off-menu� dishes to order just ask the friendly staff or ask Zhou himself, and you will be able to experience some authentic and traditional Shanghai cuisine. 4940 S.Yosemite St. E-8 Greenwood Village, CO 80111 Tel: 303.290.8430 www.shanghaikitchendenver.com OPEN HOURS Mon - Fri: 10:30am to 9:30pm Sat - Sun: 11:00am to 9:15pm
menu.
Appetizers Scallion Pancakes $4.95 Pork Mini Dumpling (6) $5.25 Satay Chicken $6.25 ENTREES Rice Noodle Bowl (Chicken or Beef) $9.50 Thai Noodle (Chicken or Beef) $9.50 Shanghai Rice Noodle Combination $9.95 Mongolian Pork $9.95 Eggplant Basil $10.50 Shrimp with Lobster Sauce $11.25 Garlic Scallops $12.95
Peter Bui Asian Avenue magazine
Dae Gee Korean BBQ | 7570 Sheridan Blvd. | Arvada, CO 80003 Tel: 720.540.0700 | www.daegee.com | Hours: Sun - Sat 11am to 10pm Even though Korean barbecue has gained popularity amongst foodies, it is still relatively new to most people but that is where Dae Gee comes in to help educate the masses. And they’re doing it with style. The first thing customers will notice about Dae Gee is how well they are branded and that everything from signs to cups have that unforgettable ‘pig’ logo. This is where owner Joe Kim has put a lot of his focus. He not only wants to serve high-quality traditional food but wants to do so in his own modern and savvy way. With little experience in the restaurant business, Kim has done an excellent job with the help of his family and friends to put out a product unlike most Korean restaurants. Of course the other focus is the food and to help educate patrons unfamiliar with Korean cuisine. His friendly staff is more than willing to answer questions; even the menu provides tips on how to enjoy the food. Korean barbecue is a unique experience where patrons cook their own choice cuts of meat. Dae Gee provides a great selection of high quality cuts like samgyupsal – thick slices of pork belly. If you love bacon and pork, you’ll really love this cut. They also offer meats marinated in house sauces which is called bulgolgi and can be ordered in chicken, beef, pork or squid. For most, the tastiest cut of meat is the kalbee – house marinated beef short ribs. This cut is hard to not like because of the high marbleization of fat added with the marinate, which makes it extremely palatable. Any meat you choose comes with a plethora of banchan (side dishes), fresh vegetables and dipping sauces. Dae Gee also offers non-barbecue dishes such as dolsot bee bhim bop. A hot stone bowl filled with steamed rice, assorted vegetables, marinated beef, topped with a fried egg and is served with gochujang (chili paste). This tasty and extremely filling meal comes to the table sizzling hot. What Dae Gee is most known for is its all-you-can-eat barbecue, and for a low price patrons can fill themselves with an endless supply of delicious meat. In fact, Dae Gee is Korean for pig and ‘pig out!’ is the restaurant’s mantra. Kim is taking a new look on a traditional business by using novel ideas. Dae Gee provides a place where pigging out is not only accepted, it is encouraged.
Photos by Benjamin Lim
menu. Korean BBQ KALBEE Marinated beef short ribs 21 L.A. KALBEE Marinated beef short ribs L.A. style 19 BEEF BULGOGI Thinly sliced, marinated beef ribeye 16 PORK BULGOGI Thinly sliced, marinated pork 15 CHICKEN BULGOGI Marinated chicken thigh 15 OJING UH BULGOGI Spicy marinated squid 15 Entrees BEE BIM BHOP 10 Steamed rice topped with sesame oil assorted vegetables, beef & a fried egg KIMCHEE CHEEGAE 9 Special broth with kimchee, tofu & slices of pork MAHN DOO GOOK 10 Chicken dumplings w/ vegetables in beef broth soup MUL NAENG MYEON 10 Chilled buck wheat noodles in cold beef broth w/ slices beef, egg & vegetables GO DUENG UH GOOEE 14 Grilled mackerel OH JING UH BOK KEUM 16 Squid marinated w/ spicy sauce & vermicelli noodles
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Colorado Alliance for Health Equity and Practice (CAHEP) continues to serve Asian Pacific Islanders – with much needed services CAHEP | 5250 Leetsdale Dr., Suite 110 | Denver, CO 80246 Tel: 303.954.0058 | Web: www.cahep.org Alok Sarwal, PhD Colorado Alliance for Health Equity and Practice
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For more than 12 years, Colorado Alliance for Health Equity and Practice (CAHEP) has provided comprehensive preventative education, screening, navigation, and follow-up treatment (as a continuum of care) to more than 40,000 Asian Pacific Americans, and recently to new immigrants of Africans and Middle-Eastern origin. To the population, it has been a safety net clinic, delivering a broad range of health care services to medically underserved and uninsured populations, regardless of a patient’s ability to pay. CAHEP works in collaboration with underserved individuals and families from all Asian-Pacific, African and Middle-Eastern communities in order to improve their overall quality of life. In the course of providing these services it also enrolls people in various insurance programs. It have conducted extensive outreach and taken these services to the people with health and wellness events at the community sites all over Colorado. Till now we have conducted about 300 such health screening and insurance enrollment events. CAHEP currently provides a primary care clinic. It also works with Inner City Health Center to provide services at its site. Basic Family Medical Care by PASC Denver Clinic at CAHEP include: Medical Examinations for Diagnosis and Treatment, Care for the Elderly, Disease Screening with Full Blood Chemistry Analysis, Bone Density Scans for Osteoporosis, Screening and Treatment for Diabetes, High Cholesterol, and High Blood Pressure, Hepatitis Management and Preventive Medicine. This also includes proving Vaccinations, Women’s Health that include free Mammograms through St. Josephs Mobile Mammography, Annual Exam, and Cervical Cancer Screenings. It now had Dental Health services in partnership with Senior Mobile Dental program. Certainly, some insurance programs including Medicaid and CHP+ play a vital role in filling the gap left by spotty employer-sponsored coverage for some low-income immigrants and refugees. However, many members of emergent populations who are eligible are often confused about what it means for them and their families. Consequently, low-income members of emerging communities are much less likely to be enrolled in insurance programs than low-income US-born individuals. In low-income populations, almost third of US-born were enrolled in Medicaid or SCHIP September 2013 | Health
coverage, compared 15% of foreign-born And even if an immigrant had lived in the US for more than six years, this percentage did not change. These issues also impact the large number of low-income immigrant children and children of immigrant parents. One out of every four low-income children is living in a family with at least one foreign-born parent, and many of these children are eligible for some form of insurance such as - Medicaid or CHP+. However, low-income immigrant children and US-born children living with an immigrant Dr. Suegie Park explains bone density results to parent are much more likely to be uninsured a senior member of the Korean community. than US-born children with American-born crease access to health insurance for Denver parents. Members of emergent population are and front-range residents. less likely to have employer-based health covIn general, racial and ethnic minorities are erage and less likely to be enrolled in Medicaid significantly less likely than the rest of the and CHP+ and live in Colorado counties’ which population to have health insurance. They have high rates of EBNE. Due to language and constitute about one-third of the U.S. popucultural barriers, these populations are hardlation, but make up more than half of the 50 to-reach and hard-to-serve for most non-com- million people who are uninsured. munity-based agencies. Evidence indicates that the best method to reach these individuals is to go to them instead of trying to convince them to utilize standard health care methods. Directly working with the community stakeholders has demonstrated to be most effective for screening, enrolling and then treating high-risk individuals. These approaches were selected because it empowers people to take control of their health, through (our) support, (sharing) knowledge The people CAHEP serves are from Viet- and best practices, and (family) actions leading namese, Chinese, Korean, Cambodian, Bur- to improved capacity of “access to health care”. All bilingual and bicultural services are supmese, Bhutanese, Asian-Indian, Filipino, Hisported by Navigators working to facilitate a panic, Arabic and Muslim communities. To ensure success, there is direct partnership continuum of care adapted to their needs. The project with Connect for Health Colorado will with formal and informal community leaders contribute to substantial cost savings for health with genuine understanding of the culture care in Colorado and assist in accomplishing and values of the target population. This work requires utilizing trained naviga- the goals of the Affordable Care Reform Act. Connect for Health Colorado is marketing tors who are from the same community and this new health insurance exchange. It has speak the language in a setting where they feel secure and respected. This promote a culture created a statewide Assistance Network to certify assistance sites where local guides can of wellness in the target immigrant communities where no-one is denied access to care due provide in-person education to clients. Once the exchange opens on Oct. 1, those same local to lack of insurance. After enrollment in an guides can help their friends and neighbors deappropriate insurance program, these people can be directly referred to a particular Prima- termine their eligibility for health coverage and get them enrolled in the most appropriate plan. ry Care Provider. CAHEP has been selected to support this The Affordable Care Act has already moderately increased access to health insurance lofty goal as an assistance site to Asian Pacific Islanders and immigrants along its target popthrough programs for young adults and senior ulation in Colorado’s front-range region. Americans. In 2014, two new features of the All potentially eligible individuals, families law: 1) the expansion of Medicaid to uninand small businesses are welcome to contact sured parents and adults without dependent children and 2) the opening of the Colorado CAHEP for eligibility determination and subsequent enrollment starting in Oct. 1. Health Benefits Exchange – will markedly in-
1 in 4 low-income children live in a family with at least one foreign-born parent.
Simply, what is the Affordable Care Act? In March 2010, President Obama signed into law the Affordable Care Act. The law: • Ends the worst insurance company abuses • Makes health insurance more affordable • Strengthens Medicare • Provides better options for coverage Today, it is illegal for insurance companies to: • Deny coverage to children because of a preexisting condition like asthma or diabetes. • Put a lifetime cap on how much care they will pay for if you get sick. • Cancel your coverage when you get sick by finding a mistake on your paperwork. In many cases, you can get preventive services for free: cancer screenings such as mammograms & colonoscopies; vaccinations such as flu, mumps & measles; blood pressure screening; cholesterol screening; tobacco cessation counseling and interventions; birth control; depression screening and more. Visit www.healthcare.gov/ prevention for a full list. Before, small businesses paid an average of 18 percent more for health insurance than large companies. Today, small businesses can get tax credits to help pay for coverage for their employees.
Young adults under the age of 26 can now stay on their parents’ health plans. Starting in 2014: • Discriminating against people with pre-existing conditions or because they are women will be illegal. • There will be new State-based marketplaces – called Affordable Insurance Exchanges – where you’ll have a choice of private plans. • Tax credits will make buying insurance more affordable. Tax Credit Examples: Family of four with couple’s age, 57 & 55 respectively with two college attending children between age 21-25 making $45,000 year will receive monthly tax credit of $1,700 to purchase health insurance for the family. Family of four with couple’s age, 42 & 40 respectively with two children age under 21 making $35,000 year will receive monthly tax credit of $1,001 to purchase health insurance for the family. Need Help? The Colorado Alliance for Health Equity Practice is partnering with Connect for Health Colorado to provide Health Insurance Enrollment Guidance. Certified Guides are available to assist anyone/organization seeking support for new health insurance enrollment.
Partners in Covering Coloradans Who is eligible? Colorado Medicaid: Beginning January 1, 2014, individuals earning up to 133%* of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) (for 2013, this equates to about $15,000/year for an individual or $30,000/year for a family of four) may be eligible for Medicaid coverage. The Department estimates over 160,000 newly eligible Coloradans could enroll in Medicaid. *The federal government
allows for up to 5% disregards, thus, persons with income up to 138% of FPLmay be eligible.
Connect for Health Colorado: Connect for Health Colorado is a new health insurance marketplace for businesses with 2-50 employees, Coloradans who buy their own health insurance, are uninsured or don’t have access to affordable coverage through an employer. It is not for Coloradans who are eligible for Medicare. New financial help will be available to nearly 500,000 Coloradans based on income. Individuals earning $15,856 to $45,960/year, couples earning $21,404 to $62,040/year or a family of four earning $32,499 to $94,200/year can get a break on premiums. When does coverage begin and when to apply? Colorado Medicaid: Coverage begins January 1, 2014 for newly enrolled individuals. Coloradans can apply beginning October 1, 2013, though coverage will not begin until January 1, 2014. Connect for Health Colorado: Coverage begins January 1, 2014, for Coloradans who sign up by Dec. 15, 2013. Open enrollment is October 1, 2013 to March 31, 2014. What can Coloradans do now? Colorado Medicaid: Over the next few months, Coloradans can research and become familiar with resources on the PEAK and Connect for Health Colorado websites. To access additional information visit or call: www. Colorado.gov/PEAK; Toll free: 1-800-221-3943; TDD: 1-800-659-2656. Connect for Health Colorado: Get more information and an estimate of potential financial assistance to reduce costs at www.ConnectforHealth CO.com. Toll free: 1-855-PLANS4YOU (855-752-6749).
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Boog A Loo Youth Arts Festival Inspiring youth to enrich their lives with art!
Upon walking into the courtyard of the McNichols Center, guests were greeted with an assortment of experiences: colorful chalk whimsically drawn on the floor and walls, graffiti on clear wrap, and the delicious aroma of hot dogs from the food cart. And at each and every corner of the courtyard, young children were running about participating at each station. Children were holding chalk, spray cans, and hot dogs as they enjoyed the summer sun and free art. The Boog A Loo Youth Arts Festival, hosted by Arts Street, was a collaboration of various Denver Metro youth organizations aimed at introducing youth
to different forms of expression. The festival was held at the McNichols Event Center at Civic Center Park on August 3. Not only was the courtyard filled, but the inside of McNichols was bustling with youth. Upon reaching the beautiful venue, participants had the option to learn how to create their own movies with Emily Griffith Film and TV Division, produce their own music with Flobots, learn how to use recycled material for art with RAFT, or learn integrated dancing (a style that includes both able bodied and disabled dancers) with Spoke N’ Motion. Without a doubt, the Boog A Loo Youth Arts Festival proved to be a success for its first year.
The 15th annual AsiaXpress Tennis Tournament brought together high school players, state champions and tennis seniors on August 10-11 at Gates Tennis Center in Denver. Brackets included men’s and women’s singles and doubles at all levels, as well as mixed doubles and juniors. Players played 9-game pro sets to compete for tournament trophies. Volunteers served lunch and even helped dry the courts after midday rain on August 11. “This tournament allows our AAPI community to show off their athletic
abilities in a public forum,” said Tod Nguyen, founder of AsiaXpress.com. “Yes, I said ‘show off’, which is not something our AAPI heritage encourages, but in the sporting world, sometimes we need to shed some of our humble constraints and just let our abilities shines.” Nguyen says the tournament also shows the community at large that AAPI lives are enriched through sports and enjoyment and are not just fixated on school and work. To see the final scores, visit www.asiaxpress.com.
Joie Ha For Asian Avenue magazine Kids worked on music production with the Flobots.
Shadow puppets with Circo De Nada were a hit at the Boog A Loo Youth Arts Festival. Photos by Jonathan Vanderweit
RICOH AWARDS $5000 to the DPS Asian Education Advisory Council (AEAC) As part of Ricoh’s annual donation to Denver Public Schools, the Education Advisory Councils, or EACs, are awarded grants to support their continuous work within the district. The EACs serve as a community resource to the Superintendent and Board of Education to define and address specific school/community educational needs. Denver Public Schools encourages the participation of parents, community members, and school staff within the district in the decision making process through their involvement on the EACs. The 2013 grant was awarded to the Asian Education Advisory Council, or AEAC. For more information about AEAC, please visit their website at aeac.dpsk12.org Ricoh is a global technology company specializing in office imaging equipment, production print solutions, document management systems and IT services. Headquartered in Tokyo, Ricoh, operates in more than 200 countries and regions.
Game, Set Match: AsiaXpress Tennis Tournament
Top Left: Women’s Advanced Champion and Finalist, Kaori Dowling & Rachel Nguyen Top Right: Men’s A (4.5) Finalist and Champion, Don Yoshimura and Hisham Amery Photos by Tod Nguyen/ AsiaXpress.com Left to right: Priscilla Shaw,AEAC Chair; Joseph Lawrence, Ricoh Integrated Account Manager; Veronica Figoli, DPS Chief Family and Community Engagement Officer.
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September 2013 | On Scene
Right: Men’s Intermediate Doubles Team Justin Lee and Tan Vo Photo by Kathy Bui
19th Annual Boulder Asian Festival shares the rich and diverse Asian and Pacific Island cultures Tina Fredo & Jack Hadley Boulder Asian Pacific Alliance
Downtown Boulder’s world-famous Pearl Street Mall came alive with the sounds of live entertainment and smells of curry and other delicious foods. The Shaolin Hung Mei Pai Kung Fu group performed the Lion Dance the entire length of the Mall, drums beating loudly. The 19th Annual Boulder Asian Festival on August 10-11, 2013, hosted by the Boulder Asian Pacific Alliance (BAPA), showcased many samples of Asian and Pacific Island cultures including live performances, crafts, and food. The University of Colorado at Boulder chapters of the Pi Delta Psi fraternity and Sigma Psi Zeta sorority worked
with children in the Community Tent. The children made samurai hats, origami, crafts and learned how to use chopsticks. Storyteller Ed Low shared fascinating stories and cultural artifacts. Audience members from all over the metropolitan area were dazzled by the stunning traditional costumes and live performances from Indonesian, Chinese, Javanese, Pacific Islanders, and other Asian cultures. Thuy Trang, Miss Asian American Colorado, mingled with the crowds both days of the festival. Committed to preserving the environment, BAPA has held 100% Zero-Waste festivals since 2009. All waste was compostable or recyclable. The Boulder Asian Festival continues to share the rich and diverse Asian and Pacific Island cultures.
Indonesian dancers with 2013 Miss Asian American Colorado Thuy Trang
Denver Taiko Performers
Photos by Nancy Chin-Wagner
Standing with Asian Families: Forum on Immigration Reform & Deferred Action Jinny Kim Asian Pacific Development Center
On Thursday, August 8, 2013 at the new APDC facility (1537 Alton Street Aurora, CO 80010), around 50 of the API community members gathered for the first Immigration Community Forum specifically for the API families. The forum was hosted by several community organizations—APDC (Asian Pacific Development Center), Mile High JACL (Japanese American Citizens League), CIRC (Colorado Immigrant Rights Coalition), APAP (Asian Pacific Americans for Progress) and NAAPIMHA (National Asian American Pacific Islander Mental Health Association). Stephanie Tanny, a local activist (APAP) and spoken word artist opened up the event with her poem “More than Coffee”; a poem on the marriage of a Western upbringing juxtaposed to the love-hate relationship Americans have with the exoticism from that “other” world. The focal point of the forum involved raising awareness on Asian immigrants, an invisible element in the national debate on the more than eleven million undocumented immigrants in America. Justin Valas, Policy Coordinator for the Colorado Immigrant Rights Coalition (CIRC) took center stage, speaking of the effects of the stalled bipartisan Senate bill in the House of Representatives. He reminded community members that although work permits and driving permits definitely alleviate some of the hardship on
immigrant families, deferred action is only the first step in keeping them out of the grasp of Immigration and Customs Enforcement. A major frustration of the DREAM act, was the fact that a student has to be 15 and under, and although sixteen year olds aren’t legal adults, they are barred from the program. The reality of the stalled legislation meant thousands of students still cannot attend higher education because they don’t qualify for financial aid. Justin was followed by Darrell Fun, an immigration attorney who spoke of lesser known effects of the law inhibit immigrants from the different stages of petitioning and being awarded visas. He mentioned fringe effects of the Defense of Marriage Act still being felt after the repeal. An example would be that for same
sex couples, the fiancé visa will not be issued. He also spoke of the trap some immigrants fall in: they are awarded an initial visa, but fail to get either a renewal after the expiration, or move forward in the citizenship process, and became Out-of -Status. According to immigration law, they are illegal, and will be barred for ten years if they left the United States. The final objective of the forum shows the need for community action, to shine some light on the plight of Asian American immigrants who are pushed to the fringes of media sound bites. They urged community members to contact Congress and the House of Representatives with stories, stories that will not only resonate with politicians and the media, but with the American public.
Community members participated in the first immigration community forum for Asian Pacific Islanders on August 8 held at Asian Pacific Development Center. Photo by Jinny Kim, Asian Pacific Development Center
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Affordable Care Act: Creates Health Access
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hrough provisions of the Affordable Care Act, more Americans will have access to affordable health care coverage. For Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs), the law’s benefits will help reduce disparities in both health care and health outcomes through expanded insurance coverage and better access to high-quality health care services. For example, the Affordable Care Act has enabled 121,000 young AAPIs ages 19 to 25 to gain health coverage, because they can now stay on their parents’ plans until age 26. Also, about 3.8 million AAPIs with private insurance have gained expanded coverage of free preventive care, such as mammograms, diabetes screenings, and hepatitis A and B vaccines for infants, children, and adults. Lastly, nearly two million uninsured AAPIs will have new opportunities for coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace.
Largest Ancestry Groups in the United States
Japanese Americans celebrate anniversary of historic apology
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ast month Japanese American Citizens celebrated the 25th anniversary of the passage of the Civil Liberties Act of Aug. 10, 1988, which contained an official apology by the U.S. government for the World War II incarceration of more than 120,000 Japanese Americans and reparations of $20,000 to each surviving internee.
ICHIRO SUZUKI JOINS THE 4,000 HIT CLUB
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n August 21st, with a mighty swing of his bat, the New York Yankees outfielder collected the 4,000th hit of his professional career: Ichiro Suzuki reaches 4K-hit plateau. The 4,000th hit reflects a combined total between his career in both the Japanese Pacific League and the American major league. But no matter how you slice it, the feat is impressive -- an exclusive benchmark that only two other players, Pete Rose and Ty Cobb, have reached. September 2013 | National News
First Major Study Of Cancer Incidence In Asian Americans
T
he researchers, led by Dr Scarlett Lin Gomez, examined cancer incidence data from 1990 through 2008 in 10 regions of the country, representing 54 percent of all Asian Americans. In general, prostate was the most common type of cancer among men, followed by lung, colorectal, liver and stomach cancer. When looked at individually, however, important differences arise. For instance, lung cancer rates were highest among Kampuchean, Laotian and Vietnamese. Liver cancer continued to increase in Filipino, Kampuchean, and Vietnamese men. While breast cancer was the most common form of cancer among women, not all groups experienced the same trends over this time period. Chinese women, for instance, experienced a greater than one percent increase annually in breast cancer rates throughout the nearly 20 year period. Among men and women, in contrast to national declines in lung and colorectal cancer, the incidence of lung cancer has been increasing among Filipina and Korean women and Asian Indian/Pakistani men. According to the researchers, these findings highlight where increased preventive, screening, and surveillance efforts are needed.
It’s not easy to identify all of the ingredients in the great American Melting Pot. Below is a list of America’s largest ancestry groups based on the 2010 U.S. Census. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
49,206,934 Germans 41,284,752 Black or African Americans 35,523,082 Irish 31,789,483 Mexican 26,923,091 English 19,911,467 Americans (those uncertain of their ancestry) 17,558,598 Italian 9,739,653 Polish 9,136,092 French (except Basque) 5,706,263 Scottish 5,102,858 Scotch-Irish 4,920,336 American Indian or Alaska Native 4,810,511 Dutch 4,607,774 Puerto Rican 4,557,539 Norwegian 4,211,644 Swedish 3,245,080 Chinese (except Taiwanese) 3,060,143 Russian 2,781,904 Asian Indian 2,625,306 West Indian (except Hispanic) 2,549,545 Filipino 2,087,970 French Canadian 1,888,383 Welsh 1,764,374 Cuban 1,733,778 Salvadoran 1,620,637 Arab 1,576,032 Vietnamese 1,573,608 Czech 1,511,926 Hungarian 1,423,139 Portuguese 1,422,567 Korean 1,420,962 Danish 1,414,551 Dominican 1,319,188 Greek
*Respondents may have selected more than one ancestry group or race.
ASIAN CUISINE Volcano Asian Cuisine 10440 E. Arapahoe Rd. Centennial, CO 80112 Tel: 303-662-8111 | www.volcanoasiancuisine.com
BUSINESS DIRECTORY
Jaya Asian Grill 1699 S. Colorado Blvd. #B Denver, CO 80222 Tel: 303-757-7887 | www.jayagrill.com
Red Coral Restaurant 1591 S. Colorado Blvd. Denver, CO 80222 Tel: 303-758-7610
John Holly’s Asian Bistro 2422 S. Downing St. Denver, CO 80210 Tel: 303-722-8686
Star Kitchen Seafood Restaurant 2917 W. Mississippi Ave.Denver, CO 80219 Tel: 303-936-0089 | www.starkitchendenver.com
Makan Malaysian Cafe 1859 S. Pearl St. Denver, CO 80210 Tel: 720-524-8093 | www.makanmyfood.com
JAPANESE RESTAURANT
BAKERY
Japon Sushi and Japanese Cuisine 1028 S. Gaylord St. Denver, CO 80209 Tel: 303-744-0330 | www.japonsushi.com
Celestial Bakery, Deli & BBQ 333 S. Federal Blvd. #128 Denver, CO 80219 Tel: 303-936-2339
Sumo Sushi - All You Can Eat Sushi 2353 S. Havana St. | Aurora, CO 80014 Tel: 303-695-7787
Vinh Xuong Bakery 2370 W. Alameda Ave. #15 Denver, CO 80223 Tel: 303-922-0999
BOBA/CAFE Lollicup 1589 S Colorado Blvd. Denver, CO 80222 Tel: 303-504-6022 | www.lollicupdenver.com
MASSAGE/Acupuncture Vogue Day Spa 2760 S. Havana St. #OP Aurora, CO 80014 Tel: 303-752-6606 | www.voguespa2.com HYL Massage 3945 E. 120th Ave. #B Thornton, CO 80233 Tel: 720-929-2222 Min’s Massage 2200 W Alameda Ave. Denver, CO 80223 Tel: 303-936-6265 Shen Chinese Medicine 244 Washington Denver, CO 80203 Tel: 303-905-1730 | www.shenchinesemed.com
SUPERMARKET M Mart 2000 S. Havana St. Aurora, CO 80014 Tel: 303-695-4803
Sushi Mango 3624 E Highlands Ranch Pkwy. Highlands Ranch, CO 80126 Tel: 720-348-0773 | www.sushi-mango.com
KOREAN RESTAURANT
Pacific Ocean Market Place 6600 W. 120th Ave. Broomfield, CO 80020 Tel: 303-410-8168 Pacific Ocean International Supermarket 2200 W. Alameda Ave. #2B Denver, CO 80223 Tel: 303-936-4845
CHINESE RESTAURANT
Seoul Korean BBQ Restaurant 2080 S. Havana St. Aurora, CO 80014 Tel: 303-632-7576 | www.seoulkoreanbbq.com
VIETNAMESE RESTAURANT
China Taipei Chinese Restaurant 8100 S. Quebec St. #B-14 Centennial, CO 80112 Tel: 303-773-0155
Seoul BBQ & Sushi 2 311 West 104th Ave. Northglenn, CO 80234 Tel: 303-280-3888
Pho Ta 2200 W. Alameda Ave. #38 Denver, CO 80223 Tel: 303-922-7888 | www.photausa.com
Empress Seafood Dim Sum Restaurant 2825 W. Alameda Ave. Denver, CO 80219
Silla Restaurant 3005 S. Peoria St. Aurora, CO 80014 Tel: 303-338-5070
Pho Mai 6765 W 120th Ave. Broomfield, CO 80020 Tel: 303-466-6346 | www.phomairestaurant.com
Tel: 303-922-2822
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Massage & Reflexology 30 min Foot Massage $15 30 min Back Massage $20 60 min Foot & Back Massage $25 60 min Back Massage$35 Our massages soothe aches and relax your body. Restore balance and rejuvenate your energy at an affordable price!
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A
sian chefs are widening the p
International tourists and weekend visitors are craving for the exotic cuisines from Asia. So chefs, who enjoy summer mountain living, are bringing their talents into these resort towns of Breckenridge, Buena Vista, Grand Junction and Winter Park. Japanese, Chinese and Filipino cuisines are popular menu options infusing the flavors of wasabi, ginger, and coconut seasonings. Colorado hosted a record 57.9 million travelers in 2011, according to the annual survey by Longwoods International, which has surveyed Colorado travelers since 1990. With a population of more than 100,000 residents, this town is situated two hours away from various mountain resorts such as Vail, Telluride and Salida. Four hours away from downtown Denver, the city was one of the last one to be established in the state. Within 12 blocks, No Coast Sushi is close to Colorado Mesa University, bringing college students, international visitors and faculty into the establishment. Husband and wife team Chris, 41, and Lisa Boyd, 39, met each other at Suehiro Japanese Restaurant & Sushi in downtown Grand Junction, a restaurant managed by Chris’s mom. Two of Chris’ siblings still work at Suehiro. With Chris learning the skills of sushi, he branched out to bring his regulars to his restaurant called No Coast Sushi, a play on words to point out the location of land-locked Grand Junction. When Chris isn’t behind the sushi bar creating daily specials, he is touring with his punk rock band as a guitar player. He just returned from a two-week tour in Ireland. His love of music is apparent on Wednesday, when the restaurant holds DJ nights. Lisa, congenial in nature, works as a host, ensuring all diners are enjoying their experience in the restaurant. As a former middle-school teacher, she stays busy with Chris, ensuring the operation is moving smoothly behind the scenes. “We want diners to walk away happy, knowing they ate fresh food at the restaurant,” said Lisa. Chris and Lisa opened their restaurant in 2007. With a staff of 26 employees, the duo manages the restaurant that can hold up to 99 diners, with Lisa greeting all the customers and Chris running the sushi bar. The couple gives back to the community by organizing charitable events at the restaurant, getting the word about the establishment. Chris, who is half Okinawan and Caucasian, has traveled the world as a military child. He learned the art of cooking through helping his mom in the kitchen at a young age. Lisa, who grew up in Canyon Creek, learned the inner workings of the kitchen when she worked at Suehiro. The idea of farm to table appeals to the couple. They are bringing that concept into the restaurant by building partnerships with local farmers. For example, the couple took their staff on mini field trips around Palisade to sample the local wines and decide which product they could showcase in the restaurant. Banking on the success of their Grand Junction site, the couple is planning to open a location in Fruita. Specific dates are still in the works.
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September 2013 | Travel
Just less than a threehour drive from downtown Denver, Breckenridge anticipates more than three million visitors annually. Downtown is packed with out-of-town visitors looking for the ideal restaurant. Mountain Flying Fish, a sushi restaurant, owned and managed by the renowned Chef Tetsuo Shimoda, is packed with diners, who craved the Japanese cuisine. Chef Shimoda, 50, of New York is a certified sushi and fugu chef. He started his restaurant in Breckenridge so he could be close to all his favorite outdoor activities such as camping, fishing and hiking. During the winter, his choice of sport is snowboarding, he shared. “This restaurant is one of my favorites,” said Rachel Zerowin of Breckenridge Resort Chamber. At Breckenridge’s top sushi spot, certified sushi and fugu chef (licensed in Japan in 1984) Tetsuo Shimoda brings expertise he acquired in Japan and New York City. All fish is sustainable, wild-caught and environmentally friendly. Be adventurous and request Chef Shimoda to create a roll full of creativity. Just share your desired heat level and ingredients you might be allergic so he will not include those items. Other delights include the daily specials, hand written on the board in bright neon colors. Appetizers and entrees range from $3.50 to $33.00. Fish is flown daily into town. Chef Shimoda selects his fresh ingredients from local farmers within the mountain community. Chef Shimoda started his restaurant eight years ago in pursuit of better lifestyle in Breckenridge, he said. Originating from Japan and relocated from New York, Chef Shimoda works his magic behind the sushi bar. Closed Mondays and Tuesday, the restaurant opens its doors at 5 pm the rest of the week. The space is tight but unassuming. With a packed dining room, diners sit cozy together, making it casual. It is a first-come served, so no reservations are required to dine at this restaurant. However, waits could take about two hours during winter peak season, while summer time allows diners to walk in for a table within 15 minutes. Located on the third floor, the restaurant sits with other retailers and dining establishment in an upscale mall at the north end of Main Street.
breckenridge
e palates of mountain resort towns
e
Mary Jeneverre Schultz Twitter: @Jeneverre
With elevation of 9,100, this mountain resort depends on tourism, according to Winter Park/Fraser Chamber of Commerce. Popular with local Denver residents, the summer brings thousands of mountain bikers (Winter Park & The Fraser Valley are Mountain Bike Capital USA™), hikers, anglers, campers, river rafters and backpackers to enjoy the town’s idyllic summer climate. Rocky Mountain National Park, less than an hour from the Fraser Valley, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. In 1999, the West gate of Rocky Mountain National Park reported 499,482 visitors. The summer also brings world class musicians and artists to the numerous festivals presented by the area. Sushi Bar at Winter Park is one of the only sushi restaurants in this mountain resort town. “Our specialty is sushi, educating people on what sushi is,” said Tanya Stern, 40, who manages the front house and is co- owner of Sushi Bar. Head Chef Dan Foertsch, 39, is creating weekly specials to encourage repeat customers and those with adventurous palates. Foertsch, a native of Ohio, has only lived in Winter Park for four years. While he misses Denver, he enjoys the restaurant’s ambiance. “We have a monopoly on sushi,” said Foertsch, who worked for Chef Kevin Taylor
for four years in one of his previous restaurant’s jobs. Food range from $5 to $25, including appetizers, soup, salad and sushi rolls. Drinks, by the glass, can cost anywhere from $4 to $11. Stern jokingly calls unagi (freshwater eel) as the “bacon of the sea.” Diners enjoy the sweet but hot crispy texture of this fish. The restaurant can seat up to 60 people, 40 in the dining room and 20 in the cocktail lounge. The restaurant plans to build a separate for private dining. Beside adventure seekers, other diners include second homeowners, visitors from Denver and repeat vacationers. If you talk with any of the employees, they will share their love for mountain sports during the winter such as skiing or snowboarding. “For most of us living up here, this is our happy place,” Stern said. Co-owner Fernan Deleon, 46, started a coffee martini bar about 16 years ago, when he discovered Winter park through his love of skiing. The concept evolved into a sushi restaurant. He is managing another restaurant in the former building of Sushi Bar. The decor showcases red color on the wall and infused light bulbs to enhance the mood in the dining area. The restaurant also features the Lucky Buddha Martini Lounge.
With average elevation of 8,000, this town is tucked at the foot of the Rocky Mountain’s Collegiate Peaks. More than two hours away from downtown Denver, Buena Vista is an ideal community to raise a family. Filipino chef and owner Eddie Sandoval, who established his restaurant in 2009, brings an array of Asian dishes to downtown Buena Vista. Sandoval, 38, creates a wide menu selection of dishes from the Philippines, Japan, Thailand and China. While a majority of the customers are out-of-town visitors and weekend guests, local residents will recommend this restaurant as the place to dine for quality Asian cuisines. “I started the Asian Palate in Buena Vista because I wanted to be part of this wonderful community and live in the beautiful Arkansas Valley,” Sandoval said. The chicken adobo, an entree Sandoval brings from his parents’ recipe book, is amazing. Plated beautifully with volcano-shaped, steamed rice and topped with fried bananas, the entree is accompanied by a side of Filipino yellow pancit. Besides Filipino food, the restaurant offers cuisines from India and Laos, representative of Sandoval’s travels throughout Southeast Asia. Sushi is part of this menu, even in this land-locked state.
Sushi lovers and food critics won’t complain about these sushi and sashimi from this menu. “I often incorporate Mediterranean ingredients and technique and use local produce when in season,” said Sandoval, who worked under James Beard Award-winning chef Jody Adams at Rialto Restaurant in Cambridge. In addition to Asian cuisines, the menu offers options for those who are vegetarians and others who are restricted to gluten-free diets. For those with adventurous appetites, Sandoval shared any of the spicy Thai options would whet those hungry to be daring. For the lunch menu, prices range from $3.95 to $9.95. Dinner prices range from $3.95 to $14.95. Flavors and Asian seasonings are infused throughout the numerous dishes. Despite the eclectic menu offering, the ingredients are simple and the entrees are well prepared and plated in an appetizing manner. The atmosphere is casual. Weekend nights provide a live band or local musician for background music. With a capacity of 69, the restaurant is tight during the heavy dinner hours, especially on summer weekend nights. “We hope to always contribute to our incredible community, and we greatly support music and the arts by hosting live music,” said Sandoval, a native of Boston.
buena vista
winter park
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Becoming Black in a Black Dye and Becoming Yellow in a Yellow Dye
染於倉則倉, 染于黃則黃 This implies that a man’s character is influenced by environment. When Mo Zi was passing a dyeing workshop, he saw a few workers putting skeins of silk into vats of dye. He said with a sigh, “Silk is snowwhite. When it is thrown into the black dye, it becomes black, and when it is thrown into the yellow dye, it becomes yellow. One must be very careful when dyeing a thing. The same is true of a man’s conduct. The slightest carelessness is like dropping the silk in a wrong vat of dye. It’s very difficult to change its color once it is dyed. - The Book of Mo Zi
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September 2013 | Chinese Idiom
Calligraphy by Harrison X. Tu, Confucius Classroom in Denver
Looking for healthy women and men, ages 18-40, to participate in a 14 to 17 day long in-laboratory sleep study at the University of Colorado Boulder and University of Colorado School of Medicine. Compensation up to $2,730. Email sleep.study@colorado.edu for details. Primary Investigator: Kenneth Wright Jr., Ph D.
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