Asian Avenue Magazine - January 2024

January 2024

Volume 19 | Issue 1

Colorado prepares for Lunar New Year celebrations for the state holiday

Women DJs elevate the music scene

Executive Chef Peter Ho delivers fresh flavors for OAK at Fourteenth

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ASIAN AVENUE - PRESIDENT’S NOTE Happy new year! Organizations, businesses, communities, and families are getting ready for the Lunar New Year festivities this month and into February. What makes this year especially unique is that 2024 marks the first year that Lunar New Year will be celebrated as an observed state holiday. Last year, Governor Polis signed a bill to instate this recognition, making Colorado the second state to do so (after California). A huge thank you to all of the community leaders who helped make this happen, including the Lunar New Year Allies Advisory Group and those who testified before the House Committee about the importance of this holiday.

Annie Guo VanDan, President Asian Avenue magazine Connect with us! hello@asianavemag.com @asianavemag Hello 2024! This will be the first year that the Lunar New Year will be observed as a state holiday in Colorado. We invite you to join in the celebrations across Colorado to celebrate this historic occasion!

Lunar New Year celebrates the beginning of spring and the new year, and is one of the most important holidays for many Asian American communities. The Year of the Dragon is believed to bring good fortune, passion, and new opportunities. Anticipate a year that is exciting, creative, and transformational because the dragon is magical and magnificent. The dragon is considered the most powerful sign of the Chinese zodiac, symbolizing wisdom, strength, and prosperity. Check out your zodiac predictions for the year. Depending on how your zodiac animal interacts with the dragon, you may approach 2024 in different ways.

Lastly, 2024 is a leap year, giving us one extra day to do something fulfilling or one extra day to simply just be. These past few years have certainly not been easy. We wish you all happiness and peace in this new moon.

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January 2024 | President’s Note

ASIAN AVENUE TEAM Publisher & Founder CHRISTINA YUTAI GUO President ANNIE GUO VANDAN

IN THIS ISSUE 7 8

Editorial Director MARY JENEVERRE SCHULTZ Graphic Designer/Videographer LIJIN ZHAO

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Web Designer JASON ZHANG Staff Writer JESSALYN LANGEVIN Staff Writer PATRICIA KAOWTHUMRONG

on the cover The Far East Center has been organizing its Lunar New Year Celebration for 33 years as a way to share this important Asian cultural holiday with the Denver community.

EVENT CALENDAR

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EVENT: Small Island Big Song pays tribute to the islands through music, dance, and artistry

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OUR COMMUNITY: Aurora Mental Health & Recovery announces name of new center Artist Ratha Sok completes dragon mural in Denver’s Westwood area

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COVER STORY: Colorado prepares to celebrate Lunar New Year as a state holiday for the first time

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.

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January 2024 | Table of Contents

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COVER STORY: Far East Center will host two months of cultural events COVER STORY: Check out the Lunar New Year events around Colorado COVER STORY: Lunar New Year book illustrated by Michelle Jing Chan FOOD: Peter Ho serves as the Executive Chef of OAK at Fourteenth in Boulder FEATURE: Women DJs take center stage

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COVER STORY: Year of the Dragon Zodiac Predictions

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New Year Connect: Speaker and Networking Event

Mochitsuki - Rice Cake Pounding Event

Thursday, Jan. 18 | 5:30pm to 7pm

Saturday, Jan. 20 | 10:30am to 12:30pm

Zeppelin Station 3501 Wazee Street #100, Denver Cost: $10 ACEL members, $20 non-members Search for event on EventBrite

Colorado College Worner Student Center 902 N Cascade Ave, Colorado Springs Tickets: Free and open to public japanamerica.org

Lulu Lantzy joins Asian Corporate & Entrepreneur Leaders (ACEL) Denver’s January Speaker Series. Lulu brings decades of leadership experience in both the public and private sectors. She will share about her career path and give advice for career advancement. As the Chief Activation Officer for the Auraria Higher Education Center, Lulu connects the Auraria Campus to the greater community and helps create a robust learning environment. Don’t miss this out learning from an industry insider!

Join the Japanese-American Society of Southern Colorado for this fun and tasty outdoor cultural event called mochitsuki, a traditional Japanese rice-pounding ceremony that celebrates the new year.

Enjoy various samples of Japanese mochi dishes, such as goma, anko, and abekawa, examples of what the rice being pounded could eventually become. Children are welcome to help pound.

FACC 70th Anniversary Celebration

Saturday, Jan. 27 | 4:45pm to 7pm King Center, Auraria Campus 855 Lawrence Way, Denver Tickets: $50 to $75 colorado-filipinos.org

Join the Filipino-American Community of Colorado to commemorate their seven decades of cultural vibrancy. Experience the richness of Filipino traditions through a captivating cultural dance production featuring their FACC cultural dance group and San Francisco’s Parangal ensemble.

In 1954, against the backdrop of global changes and societal unrest, the FACC was born. Today, they celebrate 70 years of Filipino pride and cultural excellence.

January Events

Vision Board Extravaganza Saturday, Jan. 20 | 11am to 1pm

American Red Cross Center 444 Sherman St, Denver Cost: $30 General; Free for NAAAP members colorado.naaap.org

Colorado Asians in Mental Health In Person Meet-up Friday, Jan. 26 | 10am to 11:30am

TOUS les JOURS, 2892 S Havana St, Aurora Mental health professionals only E-mail asianvibesindenver@gmail.com for more info

SNAP Show

Sunday, Jan. 28 | 1:30pm, 7pm Lone Tree Arts Center 10075 Commons St, Lone Tree Tickets: $32 to $48 lonetreeartscenter.org

Part networking, part community building, this is a meet-up organized by Asian Vibes in Denver to connect AANHPI clinicians and mental health professionals in Colorado.

Enjoy coffee and pastries at this first quarterly event.

Attention dreamers and achievers! Unlock your potential at this vision board creation workshop. Are you ready to take control of your destiny and transform your aspirations into reality? Celebrate your unique vision and draw inspiration from the creativity of others at this transformative event hosted by the National Association of Asian American Professionals, Colorado (NAAAP CO). Take home professional headshots, enjoy brunch while learning about tools and resources to continue your journey of personal growth and goal achievement.

You’ll embark on a journey of self-discovery and goal manifestation like never before!

It can be isolating to practice as a BIPOC clinician, let alone an AANHPI clinician in Colorado. The organizer’s hope is to bring together AANHPI providers in time and space to share in their care for the communities they serve.

Poof! Presto! Snap! Playing with space, time and the otherworldly, this eclectic ensemble of South Korean illusionists will boggle your mind with their impressive powers of prestidigitation. Mixing dexterous sleight of hand, Chaplin-esque vaudevillian comedy and ingenious visual effects, SNAP conjures a marvelous, magical cabaret perfect for the whole family.

SNAP presents a slapstick-style comedy and silent storytelling. “SNAP combines polished illusion, Chaplinesque comedy and oldfashioned circus arts into a 70-minute whirl,” says The New York Times.

Event Calendar | Asian Avenue Magazine

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Small Island Big Song comes to Denver Friday, February 16, 2024 | 7:30pm to 9:30pm Newman Center for Performing Arts 2344 E Iliff Ave, Denver, CO 80208 Tickets and more info at: newmancenterpresents.com

Experience a journey into the soul of the island nations of the Pacific and Indian Oceans, meeting an ancient seafaring ancestry and confronting the impacts of the climate crisis. Combining music, spoken word and live cinema, the experience is framed in a theatrical narrative with panoramic visuals of the artists’ homelands.

Drawing on a roster of respected first nation artists, the concert features musicians performing irresistible oceanic grooves to soulful island ballads.

Founded by Taiwanese producer and manager BaoBao Chen and Australian music producer and filmmaker Tim Cole in 2015, the two have been recording

Q&A with Producer BaoBao Chen How did you come up with the idea of this production?

How can we respond to the issue of our era, our planet’s future as theater and music creators? was a question we, Taiwanese theater producer BaoBao Chen and Australian music producer and filmmaker Tim Cole, the co-founders of Small Island Big Song, asked ourselves after hearing the predicted effects of the climate crisis across the ocean back in 2015. We just finishing up a film, shot on the remote Banks Islands of Vanuatu, the first region to be declared climate refugees by the UN, Tim had been working on cross cultural projects in the field in the Pacific & Australia for a few decades, and was asked by the community to produce a film with them.

We decided to quit our jobs and with $5,000 between us, a few microphones and cameras, we spent the next three years following an ancient sea migra-

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January 2024 | Events

and filming with over a hundred musicians in nature across 16 island nations of the Pacific and Indian Oceans.

The outcomes include two award-winning albums, a feature film, education programs, and a live concert that has toured around the world across four continents reaching over 200K+ live audiences since the world premiere at SXSW 2018.

Small Island Big Song explores the cultural connections between the descendants of the seafarers of the Pacific and Indian Oceans through the Austronesian migration. Working with artists who have made a choice to maintain the cultural voice of their people, to

Co-founders of Small Island Big Song: producer BaoBao Chen (left) with music producer and filmmaker Tim Cole (right)

tion route journeying 16 island nations across the vastness of the Pacific and Indian Ocean, from Taiwan to Aotearoa/ New Zealand, from Madagascar to Hawai’i. Our vision was to create collaborative opportunities between artists confronting the environmental changes on their homelands, who had the agency to represent its voice.

Creating there in the artist’s community at the frontline in nature, with the instruments and in the languages resonant to that place. Songs which could be shared across the ocean for other creatives to collaborate on, from island to island. Like science, songs were once used to share knowledge, as well as navigation tools to cross the ocean.

sing in the language, and to play the instruments of their land. These unique lineages mixed with their diverse contemporary styles - roots-reggae, beats, grunge, RnB, folk & spoken-word, establishing a contemporary musical dialogue between cultures as far afield as Madagascar, Aotearoa (New Zealand), Taiwan, Mauritius, Marshall Islands, Papua New Guinea, Tahiti and Rapa Nui (Easter Island), creating “One coherent jaw-dropping piece” (Billboard). Music critic Tom Orr has noted in the RootsWorld review “….sounds like one very big, very happy family doing what they do best while helping get the word out on a most serious issue.”

How were the musicians and artists selected for this production?

When we were in Vanuatu directing ‘Vanuatu Women’s Water Music’, we discovered an incredible heritage they shared with communities spread across Asia, Pacific & Indian oceans.

Most of these communities were established by the ancient seafarers.

When we first learnt this back in late 2013, we thought ‘what an incredible wealth of cultures, music and instruments to base an album on.’

We’re not anthropologists but theater and music producers. Our focus is to create contemporary and creative collaboration across this region.

One of the songs born of this collaborative process is Gasikara, it began when we visited Gabagaba (Drumdrum) village on the southern coastline of Papua New Guinea. Responding to the loss of fish due to coral bleaching, master drummer Airileke recorded a driving rhythm using his village’s Kundu & Garamut drums.

Other coastal villages that we also

visited were experiencing the same loss of their vital coral reefs, one of which was Madagascar’s west coast.

Tarika Sammy, a world music legend and dedicated multi-instrumentalist, contributed musical backing using, a rare and threatened instrument the Jejy. In Taiwan, Indigenous Paiwanese singer Sauljaljui sung a powerful chant, and for Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, Torres Strait Islander songman Mau Power rapped of the wisdom to protect the reef through maintaining custom practice.

The song traveled with us to many other islands before the version you now see on YouTube and in our album.

But on stage, you will get to see the live version featuring Airileke, Sammy, Sauljaljui, and Emlyn, who sings in Mauritian Creole paying respect to the extinct Dodo bird on her island.

Why are you performing this show in Colorado?

We are coming to Colorado as part of our three month tour across the states with our production ‘Our Island’

by Small Island Big Song, which premiered in January 2022.

During COVID, we collaborated with islanders musicians across the Pacific and Indian Oceans through Zoom meetings over two years.

Co-writing songs that concern and celebrate the environments where we live, breathe, and depend on, we have been touring this production around the globe the past two years and are very happy to finally share it with you.

It’s also important to us to share our stories and homelands with those so distant from us. The opportunity to come to Colorado is special for us.

What do you hope the audience walks away with after seeing it?

Our motivation is the steady march of environmental and cultural loss across this region. We have also reached a threshold that our collective lifestyles have directly affected the global environment. At this level, our planet could be viewed as a fragile Island of which we all are responsible for, that’s our message.

Yes, that’s our motivation but our show is us celebrating this powerful union of cultures from the Pacific and Indian oceans, sharing our rhythms, instruments, songs, styles, and supporting each other as we take the lead for our homelands. We come from extraordinary places that we want to share.

Learn more about their show and tour at: smallislandbigsong.com.

Small Island Big Song Show Live Photos Small Island Big Song | Asian Avenue Magazine

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Cultural Development & Wellness Center will serve Aurora’s diverse refugee and immigrant communities

Last year, the boards of the Asian Pacific Development Center (APDC) and Aurora Mental Health & Recovery announced a merger of the two organizations. As such, all APDC staff joined forces with AMHR’s Refugee Clinic and Health Navigation Teams.

This decision was due to AMHR recently establishing a Center of Excellence for Refugees and Immigrants designed to focus and maximize the organization’s operations and resources in a manner that will enhance the care experience for people to achieve the most healthful outcomes.

AMHR is proud to announce that the Cultural Development & Wellness Center is the new name for the combined division.

The aspirations behind the Center of Excellence are bolstered by an exceptionally high concentration of expertise among our multilingual and multicultural staff centered on refugee and immigrant behavioral health.

The Cultural Development & Wellness Center has combined key resources in providing critical services to the international community of Aurora and the state of Colorado, operating as one solid and sustainable organization.

Current clients will enjoy the same great staff with the same great services, and the addition of combined strengths. These strengths will serve the members of our immigrant community well. Together, AMHR will provide culturally appropriate mental health services, language translation services, and citizenship classes to our immigrant community.

Operating as one organization, AMHR

will continue to serve the growing immigrant and refugee population, providing services to Aurora, as well as the entire state. The goal is to improve access to services by continuing to enlarge our network of collaborative organizations that assist refugees and immigrants.

AMHR will also continue to develop and implement “best practice” models of care for refugee and immigrant communities and individuals, as well as formalize and strengthen our role as a referral resource and training resource for other nonprofits state-wide.

The Center of Excellence will also enable AMHR to secure further resources in the form of grants and contracts that will enhance the care available for these members of our community.

Together, the combined teams will continue to make Aurora a leader among the most diverse and culturally-enriched communities in America.

Cambodian American muralist completes artwork in celebration of the Year of the Dragon In honor of 2024, the year of the dragon, Ratha Sok painted a mural of the Cambodian dragon or “neak,” which is a symbol of protection. Sponsored by the Trust for Public Land, Sok completed the mural in November 2023. Look for it in Denver’s Westwood neighborhood at Kentucky Ave. and Irving St. Born in Denver, Sok is a first-generation Cambodian American contemporary artist. With over a decade of creating fine arts media, his aesthetic includes graffiti roots, vibrant sweeps of bold colors, showcasing signature community elements and highlighting histories in detail.

Learn more abou t Rath a Sok

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January 2024 | Our Community

at: Ra thaS ok.co m

Colorado prepares for celebrations as Lunar New Year is recognized as an observed state holiday for the first time The year of the dragon is upon us!

What makes Lunar New Year extra special this year is that it will be the first time Colorado recognizes Lunar New Year as a state holiday.

Last year, on June 2, 2023, Gov. Jared Polis signed HB23-1271 designating Lunar New Year as an observed state holiday in Colorado.

Colorado is the second state, after California, to recognize Lunar New Year as a holiday.

The bill reads: “Increasing the visibility of cultural traditions that are widely celebrated among the Asian diaspora would serve as a counterbalance to the marginalization that many in the Asian American community have encountered over the years.”

The primary bill sponsors were: Colorado House Representative Matt Soper, Colorado House Representative Serena Gonzalez Gutierrez, and Colorado Senator (Senadora) Julie Gonzalez.

LUNA Advisory Council From left: Gary Yamashita, Fr. Joseph Dang, Nga Vương-Sandoval, Harry Budisidharta, Fran Campbell, and Derek Okubo

Credit: Together Creative Media

The bill was advocated for under the leadership of the Lunar New Year Allies Advisory (LUNA) Group.

“Our Lunar New Year Allies Advisory Group and Colorado made history!

We solidified one of the most significant holidays for our Asian community by ensuring its permanence for our state and our community,” said Nga Vương-Sandoval, Chair, LUNA Group.

Since Lunar New Year Day changes each year based upon the lunar calendar, the Colorado holiday will be recognized annually on the first Friday in February.

On June 20, 2023, more than 400 community members celebrated the historic passing of HB23-1271 at the History Colorado Center.

Now in January 2024, families are starting to tidy and clean their homes to sweep out any bad energy for the coming year.

Lunar New Year traditions include:

putting up decorations, offering sacrifices to ancestors, eating reunion dinner with family on New Year’s Eve, giving red envelopes and other gifts, firecrackers and fireworks, and watching lion and dragon dances.

Eating lucky foods also help to ring in the new year. These include: dumplings, longevity noodles, whole steamed fish, sticky rice balls, and oranges.

Ahead of New Year’s Day on February 10, 2024, markets and gift shops such as Truong An Gifts or Great Wall Supermarket sell decorations, red envelopes, toys, clothes, trinkets, and snacks.

In Colorado, dozens of Lunar New Year events ranging from gala dinners to cultural performances to festivals will take place in January and February.

See the upcoming pages for your 2024 zodiac predictions and a list of Lunar New Year events. Come out to celebrate the Year of the Dragon with our Colorado communities!

Denver Chinese School Chinese New Year Celebration

Far East Center Lunar New Year Nathan Yip Foundation Chinese New Year Gala Lunar New Year | Asian Avenue Magazine

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CH INESE Z O D I A C What’s in store for 2024? freepik.com

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024 is the Year of the Wood Dragon. The Wood Dragon is the most creative and visionary of the dragons. They are optimistic, ambitious and adventurous. They like to explore new ideas and challenge themselves. They are also generous and loyal to their friends.

On February 10, 2024, the Year of the Dragon begins.

1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, Dragon 1916, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024 It is your namesake year, also known as “Ben Ming Nian”, which means you share the same zodiac sign as the ruling god of the Chinese year system, Tai Sui. Being in Tai Sui’s spotlight can bring bad luck, obstacles, and challenges to your life. To appease Tai Sui and gain his favor, you need to respect his values of stability and harmony. You can also wear lucky charms or display Feng Shui items. Take good care of yourself by eating well, exercising regularly, and getting enough rest this year. The Dragon will take charge of its own fate in 2024!

1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, Snake 1917, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013 The year of the Dragon 2024 promises career success for Snakes, with opportunities to expand their network and close profitable business deals. The stars will boost their academic luck and bring good news and promotions. The Dragon year is favorable for Snakes, but only if they are clear about their priorities. For the Snake, this year can be a bit overwhelming and unpredictable. You may face some changes and challenges that require you to adapt and try new things. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone, as this can bring you great opportunities and rewards.

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January 2024 | Cover Story

1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, Horse 1918, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014 The Chinese horoscope says that 2024 is a year of change and renewal for Horses. They have the ability to transform their lives, especially from March onward.

They may have new dreams and aspirations that will inspire them to move forward. Horses can expect a smooth career path in 2024 with a lucky star that will help them in reaching their objectives, but they will also face some challenges and learn from them. Horses have an opportunity to break free from their bad habits and start anew with spiritual growth.

1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, Goat 1919, 1991, 2003, 2015 Goats may find that they have more energy and inspiration to pursue their passions and creative endeavors this year. One of the key themes for Goats in 2024 is personal growth and self-discovery. The year of the Wood Dragon is expected to bring a lot of positive energy and growth in the realm of love and relationships. In terms of money, the Goat may experience some financial ups and downs in 2024. It is important for Goats to practice good money management and avoid unnecessary expenses.

1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, Monkey 1920, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016 According to the Chinese zodiac, the Monkey will be the luckiest sign in 2024. This means that Monkeys will have many chances to recover from any setbacks and challenges faced in previous years. You will have more strength and confidence to pursue your goals and dreams. Whether it is in your career, your finances, your

relationships, or your health, you will enjoy opportunities and benefits that will make you happy and satisfied.

You will have the possibility to change your current job and find a new one that matches your qualifications and aspirations more closely. However, you should also be aware that these changes may come with a higher level of workload and pressure.

1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, Rooster 1921, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017 According to the zodiac, the Rooster and the Dragon have a great connection, making 2024 exciting with many opportunities. In the Year of the Dragon, the Rooster will excel as a natural leader and wholeheartedly pursue numerous ambitions. These ambitions will serve as opportunities to enhance their communication skills, excel in teamwork, and showcase their swift problem-solving abilities. Love will be the only area that Roosters won’t excel in 2024. The personal life of the Rooster will not be entirely calm and serene. Roosters will need to overcome pride or ego to establish the foundations of a sincere and honest love relationship.

1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, Dog 1922, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018 2024 will be both a rewarding and challenging year for the Dog. You will have many chances to grow and overcome difficulties, but you will also face situations that will test your courage and resilience. This year will be fast and unpredictable, so you will need to be flexible and adaptable. You can expect some good fortune in 2024, especially from your elders or relatives who may share their wealth with you. However, you should also pay attention to your love life and treat your partner with kindness. You may face some challenges or conflicts, but you can overcome them with patience and tact. Enjoy spending time with your loved ones, as this will help you stay calm and balanced in this busy year 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, Pig 1923, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019 Pigs will enjoy a prosperous and joyful year of the Dragon. You will have many opportunities to advance their careers, gain recognition and increase their wealth.

In 2024, your hard work and persistence will pay off in your career. Keep your focus on your goals, and don’t be afraid to take on new challenges. Your colleagues will take note of your dedication and may offer opportunities for advancement. In your personal life, family and home will be a priority for you this year. Take the time to strengthen your relationships with loved ones, and make your home a comfortable and welcoming space.

Source: thechinesezodiac.org

1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, Rat 1912, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020 2024 is a very favorable year for Rats. The Dragon is a compatible sign for Rats. The Dragon’s strength and prosperity will help the Rat to achieve their goals and dreams in all aspects of life. This year offers you many chances to increase your wealth and advance your career. You will have good luck in business, investment, promotion, and social relations throughout 2024, so be sure to seize them and don’t let any opportunity to improve your financial situation slip by. This will be your era of active participation, group involvement and lasting emotional progress in relationships.

1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, Ox 1913, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021 For the Ox, the first part of the year will focus on your emotional and romantic relationships, bringing you joy and satisfaction. The second part will offer you opportunities to travel, expanding your horizons. The last part will bring some positive developments in your career, which could mean a promotion! The most rewarding area will be your relationships, where you will experience more love and harmony this year. You will need to pay attention to your health and well-being. Stress and anxiety may affect you negatively, so make sure you have healthy coping strategies and support systems.

1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, Tiger 1914, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022 The 2024 horoscope advises Tigers to be careful and prudent in all aspects of their lives, such as health, work, romance and finance. Do not make drastic changes or risky choices unless absolutely necessary, and stick to what is familiar and secure. This is because the Year of the Dragon 2024 is not very compatible with the Tiger, and may bring some challenges and obstacles to your plans and goals. You need to be patient and cautious to avoid unnecessary troubles and losses. Try to balance your work and rest. Eat well and avoid foods that upset your stomach.

1914, 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962,

Rabbit 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2023 Rabbits may find themselves navigating a balance between their natural cautious tendencies and the dynamic energy of the Dragon. This could lead to personal growth and the opportunity to expand horizons in unexpected ways. For Rabbits, 2024 will bring mixed results in terms of career. Although there will be opportunities for growth and success, it’s important to tread carefully and avoid making any hasty decisions. Money luck is not on your side, so it’s better not to engage in any risky investments or gambling, and focus on a stable fixed income from jobs and avoid lending money to relatives, Lunar New Year | Asian Avenue Magazine

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Far East Center announces Lunar New Year Initiative to celebrate the state’s first observed Lunar New Year The Far East Center proudly announces their Lunar New Year Initiative for 2024, a series of cultural events celebrating the Lunar New Year and honoring the Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander (AANHPI) community. Over the course of eight weeks starting on Jan. 2, Coloradans will have the opportunity to engage in arts and crafts, storytelling, holistic health workshops, culinary events, and more, all spotlighting the vibrant AANHPI culture at the Far East Center community space (333 South Federal Boulevard Unit 129, Denver, CO 80219).

Brought to you by the Denver Economic Development & Opportunity office, Truong An Gifts, Far East Center, and NEWSED Community Development Corporation, the two-month-long Lunar New Year programming concludes with the shopping center’s revered

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33rd Annual Lunar New Year Celebration on Feb. 10-11, 2024 at the Far East Center parking lot.

“I’ve collaborated with incredible community leaders, chefs, organizations, small businesses, performers, instructors, and artists to celebrate our inaugural Observed State Lunar New Year,” says Far East Center Event Organizer Mimi Luong.

“This is such a historical moment for our community that I can think of nothing better than an all-out celebration!

Through this initiative, we are not only celebrating a significant cultural event but also acknowledging and elevating the contributions of the AANHPI community in our state. It’s a time for unity, learning, and joyous celebration.”

The initiative also plays a vital role in stimulating economic activity, particularly benefiting local businesses and community centers. By sponsoring and participating in these events, businesses have a unique opportunity to connect with the community and showcase their support for cultural diversity.

Leading up to the Lunar New Year, the community has the opportunity to participate in a range of classes, delving into aspects of culture, traditions,

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cuisine, storytelling, and more.

The Year of the Dragon Initiative warmly welcomes everyone to join the festivities in the vibrant Little Saigon District, encouraging them to immerse themselves in a multitude of enriching experiences celebrating the Lunar New Year.

“Whether you’re curious about our cultural traditions, looking forward to tasting some amazing Lunar New Year treats, or getting hands-on with workshops, there’s something here for you,” says Luong. “Let’s come together as a community, share some laughs, and celebrate the Year of the Dragon with open hearts and good times!”

Visit littlesaigondenver.com/lunarnew-year-24 for the full schedule and lineup of community events. While most events are free to attend, space is limited so please register.

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Arts & Crafts (Jan. 2-6): Discover Asian artistic traditions with workshops on dragon painting, lucky paper cutting, and lantern making.

Learn the mythical story of the 12 zodiacs through art and crafts.

Holistic Health, Mind, and Body (Jan. 14-20): Delve into Tai Chi, Qigong, Chinese Medicine with expert-led seminars and hands-on workshops, and introduction to a variety of martial arts classes.

Asian Traditions and Culture (Jan. 28-Feb. 3): Enjoy traditional to modern Kpop dances, learn about Feng Shui, and explore the art of traditional fashions of the holiday and paint your own Non La rice patty hat.

Immersive Stories (Jan. 7-13): Experience the fusion of culinary arts and storytelling with our ‘Kung Fu Dumpling Class,’ and enjoy mesmerizing acrobatic performances with behind the scenes lion dancing, and calligraphy.

Asian Culinary Traditions (Jan. 21-27): Savor the flavors of Asia with cooking demonstrations by renowned local chefs and hands-on culinary experiences.

Lunar New Year Holiday Market (Feb. 1-9): Shop for holiday essentials and indulge in an array of local foods, treats, and decorations ready in time for the Lunar New Year holiday.

Colorado Observed State Holiday Lunar New Year Celebration (Feb. 2) Marked as the first Friday every February for Colorado

Official Year of the Wood Dragon Lunar New Year Celebration (Feb. 10 & 11) at the Far East Center

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January 2024 | Cover Story

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January 2024 | Cover Story

Lunar New Year Events Lunar New Year Celebration at MSU of Denver

Chinese New Year Celebration

Wednesday, Jan. 25 | 11:30am to 1:30pm Tivoli Turnhalle, 900 Auraria Pkwy, Denver, CO 80204 Cost: Free colorado.edu/cas/event-list

Saturday, Feb. 10 | 12pm to 4pm

The Center for Asian Studies is co-sponsoring a Lunar New Year Celebration at the Tivoli Turnhalle in Denver, along with Metro State University of Denver. There will be activities, crafts, and food such as a Japanese tea ceremony, gamelan, K*Pop, and kung fu performances. The event will feature Guiding Mountain Dragon & Lion Dance and Gamelan Manik Kusuma.

Lunar New Year Festival Friday, Feb. 9 | 4:30pm to 7pm Town Center At Aurora 14200 E Alameda Ave Aurora, CO 80012 Cost: Free towncenterataurora.com/events/ lunar-new-year-festival Immerse yourself in the festivities with enchanting lion and dragon dances, engaging traditional crafts for kids, and a feast of mouthwatering Asian cuisine. Don’t miss out on this grand event to welcome the New Lunar Year!

Colorado Chinese New Year Celebration Saturday, Feb. 10 | 10:30am to 3:30pm George Washington High School 55 S. Monaco St. Parkway, Denver, CO, 80224 Cost: $25 General Admission; $50 Golden Circle denverchineseschool.org Join for the 20th Annual Colorado Chinese New Year Celebration for a day filled with excitement and cultural experiences. Delight in the mesmerizing lion and dragon dances, showcasing the rich traditions of Chinese culture.

Marvel at the graceful movements of the performers as they bring good luck and ward off evil spirits.

Indulge your taste buds with a wide array of mouthwatering Chinese delicacies from delectable dumplings to savory stir-fries. Don’t forget to try the traditional Chinese New Year desserts for a sweet start to the year. Explore the various stalls offering traditional Chinese arts and crafts. Discover unique treasures, from intricate calligraphy to beautiful handmade lanterns, all while supporting local artisans.

Southridge Recreation Center 4800 McArthur Ranch Road, Highlands Ranch, CO 80130 Cost: $10 General Admission for Performance hrcaonline.org The Highlands Ranch Cultural Affairs Association is partnering with Great Wall Chinese Academy to celebrate the Chinese New Year or Spring Festival. It ushers in the Year of the Dragon in 2024. Enjoy traditional music, exciting Chinese dragon and lion dances, beautiful folk dances, and amazing Chinese martial arts kung fu demonstrations. Performers are a mix of talented school-age individuals and professionals. Browse the free cultural fair from 12pm to 4pm featuring crafts, Chinese costumes, Chinese calligraphy, shops, refreshments, and more.

Chinese New Year Dinner at Hunan Chinese Cuisine in Fort Collins Saturday, Feb. 10 | 5:30pm to 8:30pm Hunan Chinese Cuisine 731 E. Harmony Road Fort Collins, CO 80525 Cost: $50/person RSVP required by Feb. 3 globalvillagemuseum.org The Year of the Dragon is at hand. The 2024 Chinese New Year on Saturday, Feb. 10, inaugurates the Year of the Dragon. In commemoration of this date on the Chinese lunar calendar, the Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures has arranged a dinner as part of the Museum’s Global Adventures Club.

The evening includes a traditional three-course Chinese New Year’s dinner, non-alcoholic beverages, and dessert. A cash bar will be available. The event will include speakers from China, and participants will share stories of their experiences and travels in China.

Hosts for the evening are Bonnie Titley, a member of the Museum Board, and Sari Gartner, Luxury Travel Advisor for Outdoor Travel Adventures.

Lunar New Year | Asian Avenue Magazine

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Lunar New Year

A Celebration of Family and Fun

By Mary Man-Kong Illustrated by Michelle Jing Chan A Big Golden Book

Connect with Illustrator Michelle Jing Chan at

michellejingchan.com or @michellieart.

Celebrate the Lunar New Year and learn about all of its traditions with this Big Golden Book!

Every year, millions of Asian families come together to celebrate the first new moon in the sky. Now preschoolers can learn about the zodiac animals, the delicious food, the exciting parades, and all the fun traditions. Filled with colorful illustrations and simple, yet informative text, this Big Golden Book is perfect for reading again and again to the whole family. Happy Lunar New Year!

Q&A with illustrator MICHELLE JING CHAN What do you want readers to walk away with after reading the book?

I hope readers will learn more about the traditions, food, and history surrounding Lunar New Year. In addition, I hope readers, who celebrate this holiday will feel seen and represented in the iconic Golden Books series. Growing up, I read many Golden Books, but never one about my own culture. When I first read this manuscript by the talented, author Mary Man-Kong, I was so excited to see a story about a holiday that I grew up celebrating and with characters who reflected me and my family. I’m thrilled that this next generation of Asian children will get to grow up seeing themselves represented in ways that we didn’t have.

How does this book represent you and your work?

I love illustrating cultural stories, particularly stories that I wish I had growing up in Colorado Springs. This book is also a reflection of my personal life as I designed the family to look like mine! The parents and grandma are modeled after my own, and the designs for the little girl and boy are based on my brother and me as kids.

What advice do you have for new writers?

I still consider myself a relatively green writer as well, but I have two pieces of advice. First, I believe it’s so important to keep a healthy balance between writing and hon-

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January 2024 | Cover Story

ing your craft vs. going out into the world and experiencing life. Inspiration can come from anywhere, even experiences that may seem unrelated to becoming a better writer. Secondly, reading and consuming other media teaches us so much about how other creatives approach writing, character development, and storytelling. I’ve learned so much about writing from getting lost in the stories of other creatives who I admire.

What are your plans for the future?

I have three other picture books releasing in 2024 (MAMIE TAPE FIGHTS TO GO TO SCHOOL by Traci Huahn; STAY ANGRY, LITTLE GIRL inspired by the words of Madeleine L’Engle; and GOODNIGHT SOUNDS

by Debbie S. Miller).

I also have two author-illustrator projects. My author-illustrator debut picture book, CELEBRATING DONG ZHI: THE WINTER SOLSTICE is releasing in 2025.

I am branching into Young Adult books as well with a graphic novel called SOMEWHERE IN THE GRAY about queerness and asexuality, releasing in 2026.

By Mary Jeneverre Schultz

Korean Chef Shares his Culinary Talents in Boulder

Food photos by Lucy Beaugard

With a growing family, a pandemic, and a departure from one of the highest real estate cities in the world, Chef Peter Ho researched all the possibilities in the US for an affordable place to work and live.

During his research, he discovered the Denver/Boulder area was rated as one of the top ten places to live. He reached out to all his networks, chef communities and recruiters to find a restaurant to work in.

During the pandemic, Chef Ho, who is Korean, moved to Boulder and left New York. Landing at Oak at Fourteenth in Boulder as the Executive Chef, Ho connected with the restaurant through a recruiting service.

OAK at Fourteenth is a stylish neighborhood restaurant on Boulder’s Pearl Street Mall that offers local and seasonal wood-fired American cuisine to locals and visitors for more than a decade.

Early Years Before Chef Ho embarked on his culinary career, he served in the U.S. military stationed in Germany. Thereafter, he considered career opportunities that would allow him to travel.

“I knew I wanted to work with my hands,” he said, adding that he started his culinary career 15 years ago.

He moved his family to Colorado and started working at Clayton Hotel.

Then, he worked at Rioja in Denver for a year before moving to Oak at Fourteenth at 1400 Pearl Street.

Working at Oak at Fourteenth was ideal because he did not need to focus on multiple meals during the day, just on dinner service.

“Working the dinner service allowed lots of freedom,” he said.

Oak at Fourteenth The restaurant first opened in 2010 as a partnership between Steve Redzikowski and Bryan Dayton, who oversees OAK’s award-winning cocktail program.

Since OAK is a truly American restaurant, the menu offers flavors from a multitude of cultures that have lived here for generations, combining traditional American “comfort food” with beloved and new flavors from many cultures.

Executive Chef Ho describes the Boulder restaurant as a neighborhood restaurant for regular folks, who enjoy fine dining. He added that weekends are busy, while weekdays provide an intimate dining style.

Changing two to three menu items every few days, he creates or updates menus through seasonal pickings, affordable price points and accessible execution. His menu concepts center around Spanish and Mediterranean with touches of Asian flair. The lamb entrée is his signature dish.

He confessed his favorite dishes to create are any entrée with pasta because noodle dishes are easy to make.

Executive Chef Peter Ho While he loves Asian street food, he is a true fan of any restaurant with Michelin ratings and personally enjoys dim sum, pho, and hot pot.

His daily routine includes deliveries, matching protein with seasonal ingredients, staffing, and setting up on time. He also addresses the previous night’s comments, complaints, and compliments during a staff meeting.

Daily staffing is about 15 employees.

Staffing was never a problem because the restaurant is situated in a college town.

Curious about this Boulder restaurant? See their menu or make a reservation at oakatfourteenth.com.

Food | Asian Avenue Magazine

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Women DJs bring life to the party

By Joseph Owen Schultz DJs can add a festive and entertaining element to events and celebrations.

Whether it’s a New Year’s Eve celebration, or Lunar New Year mixer, a skilled DJ can curate playlists that match the mood and theme of the occasion. Here are things to consider when booking a DJs: • Theme and Genre: Specify the theme of your event and the preferred music genre. Whether you want classic holiday tunes, modern remixes, or a mix of both, communicating your preferences will help the DJ tailor their playlist to suit the atmosphere and crowd.

• Experience: Search for DJs with experience in the type of event you are hosting or one who has a diverse range of music in their repertoire.

• Equipment: Ensure that the DJ has the necessary equipment for your venue. This includes sound systems, lighting, and any other technical requirements. Discuss the logistics to make sure everything runs smoothly on the day of the event.

• Customization: Some DJs offer the option to customize playlists based on your preferences. If there are specific songs or artists you want to include or exclude, communicate this with the DJ in advance.

• References and Reviews: Check for references or read reviews from previous clients. This can give you insights in the DJ’s professional-

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ism, reliability, and how well they cater to the specific needs of holiday events.

• Contracts and Agreements: Ensure there is a clear contract outlining the terms of the agreement, including the duration of services, payment details, and any other relevant information. This helps avoid misunderstandings on the day of the event.

Remember that a good DJ can enhance the overall experience of your holiday event by creating a lively and enjoyable atmosphere through music.

Women DJs Visibly, the DJ world appears to be a male-dominated industry. Most weddings, milestone celebrations, and house parties show DJs with a male lead, setting up heavy equipment, spinning the records, and enticing the shy crowds into the dance floor.

But when a female DJ is taking center stage as the focus, attendees are taking notice. Women DJs have made significant contributions to the world of music and entertainment. They excel in various genres, from electronic dance music (EDM) to hip-hop, and they play crucial roles in shaping the music industry. Here are a few notable women DJs: Annie Mac: A well-known Irish DJ and broadcaster, Annie Mac has been a prominent figure in the electronic music scene.

Honey Dijon: An American DJ and producer, Honey Dijon has made a

name for herself in the house music scene. She is known for her versatile style and has performed at major music festivals and events.

Peggy Gou: Hailing from South Korea, Peggy Gou is a DJ and producer known for her electronic and house music. She has gained acclaim for her skillful DJ sets and has a growing influence.

Rezz (Isabelle Rezazadeh): A Canadian DJ and producer, Rezz is recognized for her unique style within the EDM genre. She has gained a strong following and is known within the EDM genre.

Charlotte de Witte: A Belgian DJ and producer, Charlotte de Witte is associated with techno music. She has gained popularity for her powerful DJ sets and has become a prominent figure in the techno scene.

Diversity These are just a few examples, and there are many more talented women DJs making waves in the industry. The diversity of styles and influences they bring to the table contributes to the richness of the music landscape.

The representation of women DJs has historically been lower compared to their male counterparts, but the presence of female DJs in the industry has been steadily increasing over the years.

In the past, electronic music and DJing were typically male-dominated fields, but efforts to promote gender diversity and inclusivity have led to a growing number of talented women DJs gaining recognition. Let’s take a look at the Denver scene.

DJ Mimi Da Masala Virdi @mimiv303 Melanie Virdi, 44 Hip Hop, RnB, Funk, Soul, Breaks, House, Disco Denver-based Melanie Virdi is the resident DJ on the “The Eclipse Show” at KGNU studio for more than 10 years.

Nominated as Best Hip Hop DJ for the Westword’s Music Showcase back in 2019, she is part of the “Crunk Bors” DJ crew, one of the oldest and most respected crews in Colorado.

“The first female to be invited to be part of this crew was one of the biggest compliments I could ever receive,” she said.

Her interest in DJing began on the dance floor where she always found herself dancing by the DJ booth so she could observe the DJs spinning their

records. The Oriental Theatre marked her first gig when she appeared at the second Femme Fatale Show as a DJ, learning the basics in three months.

“I managed to get through my set and never turned back,” she said.

With large support from her family and friends, she is able to counter machoism from other male DJs. “I’ve definitely had my struggles being a female in a male-dominated industry. One of the worst things is being booked as a gimmick rather than for my DJ skills,” she said. “I’m not trying to be a prop for someone’s party. I’ve also experienced male DJs trying to overshadow me because they feel threatened by me. I mainly stay in my own lane and just do what I love.”

While DJing and music is her hobby, Virdi works full time at one of the largest commercial painting companies in Colorado. She also enjoys shooting pool, watching hockey, and spending time with family. Music is her “zen” and her life outside of the office.

Virdi has witnessed changes in the Denver scene for the last 20 years.

She confessed that there isn’t a lack of Asian representation in the city’s hip hop scene but has observed that mainstream isn’t showing it.

“We may be invisible to the mainstream, but we are definitely out there doing it, succeeding and pushing the limits,” she said. “I think people tend to correlate hip hop with the roots from Black struggles in the Bronx or gangster rap from the West Coast, and it’s hard for them to accept someone from outside the box.”

She shared examples such as the Bay Area in California showing a strong presence of Filipino DJs and break dancing in the early days.

DJ Sugar Auntie @dj.sugar.auntie Yasmeen Wermers, 28 Open Format For Yasmeen Wermers, her love of music started as a child during piano and violin lessons. Her father supported her musical aspirations, exposing her to a wide range of music genres.

“This foundation in music allowed me to develop an ear for melody and rhythm, and a deep appreciation for composition,” she said. “I loved curating musical experiences for my (friends and fellow artists), whether it involved burning CD mixes or crafting thoughtfully curated playlists.

She attributes her love to a fellow DJ, Alykhan, who was from northeast Denver and one of the few Muslim DJs in

the area. “Alykhan played a pivotal role in helping me get started with the basics of Djing and provided unwavering support in helping my work reach new heights,” she said. “His presence in the DJ world helped me feel comfortable with putting my mixes out there.”

In the beginning, Wermers kept it a secret from her family. During banker’s hours, she works as a product manager for a local technology company. When she is not at work or mixing music, she is a big reader of books.

“I know that they prioritize career advancement in the tech industry and stability over my personal hobbies,

since it’s not uncommon for immigrant parents to have these expectations,” she confessed. “However, as I started Local Women DJs | Asian Avenue Magazine

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to make money and gain traction in DJing, my parents’ perspectives began to shift. They grew more receptive to this career and even started to embrace the idea of their daughter having diverse dimensions to her personality.”

The community support of female DJs remains invaluable to Wermers.

“It’s a very open and supportive environment, which makes it easier for emerging artists like me to thrive,” she said. “I feel lucky to have started my

DJing journey in Denver. It’s a place where you can find your unique voice as a DJ, surrounded by talented peers, who are there to support you.”

Over the years, Wermers has witnessed a lack of Asian representation, recognizing the pressure immigrant children face to pursue a more practical career.

“My friends and I come from immigrant backgrounds and are aware of the sacrifices our family members

made to provide us with a better life and how they prioritized our access to education and opportunities,” she said.

“This sense of indebtedness can lead to a feeling that we should pursue more “practical” careers as a way to honor the sacrifices made for us. This can create a societal pressure to follow a conventional path rather than exploring their artistic passions.”

As a female DJ, Wermers finds the positives and the negatives. The down sides include safety during late hours of the night and working within unfamiliar club environments without supportive security. She also encountered judgment from those with preconceived notions on what a female DJ should look and act like in the nightlife environment.

“Growing up in a conservative East Asian home, I find myself feeling self-conscious because I don’t want to exploit sex appeal as a marketing strategy,” she admitted.

Regardless, she enjoys standing out within a male-dominated space and most people want to positively impact her career. “It’s rewarding to break down stereotypes and inspire other women to pursue their passion in music.”

DJ Lilylicious @djlilylicious Lily Herreria, 33 Danceable Zouk Music Lily Herreria started her DJ hobby to support Denver’s Brazilian Zouk Community. Her journey started a little rocky when she discovered there weren’t any programs teaching how to be a zouk DJ. “I had to do a lot of self-teaching by trial and error with my dancers by witnessing what people liked and trying to replicate styles of music they wanted to dance to,” she said. “It was a lot of listening to other DJs and trying to constantly find new music that wasn’t overplayed or too difficult to dance.”

As a full-time property manager for a Denver complex, her DJ hobby is a passion. She enjoys growing the Brazilian

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Zouk scenes by organizing socials regularly and assembling classes for the growing community.

“This is probably the best way I can share my gift of music with others without being a stage performer,” said Herreria, who majored in music at the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley.

As a female, the long, late-night hours, she finds arduous. She also shared male DJs want her desired showcase. “Male DJs try to steal my spotlight hours by trying to convince me to switch them time spots,” she confessed. “I often have to stand my ground and tell them ‘no.’”

Asian representations are not visible within the Zouk community. She has hired an Asian male to participate during her regular socials.

Because of the niche, she has garnered respect for the small community.

“I play an important role in upkeeping

the community and our standard of social dances. I am more of a leader and the environments have less alcohol since the dance takes more skill and study than a regular club grind dance style,” she said.

Herreria DJs on weeky on Thursdays at the Denver School of Social Dance.

In addition, she DJs at Zouk High a bi-weekly social in Boulder on select Saturdays. “It is my dream to see the scene here become as big as the salsa and bachata scenes are,” she said.

“I would love to spread the Zouk dance culture in Denver.”

Other Denver Area DJs DJ Lazy Eyez @djlazyeyez Hip-Hop DJ for The Solution

DJ Innaseoul @djinnaseoul K-pop

HELLOOASIANAVEMAG.COM TEL: 303.937.6888 WWW.ASIANAVEMAG.COM

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