ASIAN BOSTON online edition 2
MARK MUNOZ the filipino wrecking machine
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INSIDE: Chinese Heroes of the American Civil War INSIDE: In loving memory of Helen Gee Chin INSIDE: A how-to on Hosiery
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VYRIK ENG
ANGKOR DANCE TROUPE by Lianna Kushi
V
yrik Eng is a Senior Financial Analyst at Jeanne D’Arc Credit Union, and an active leader in Lowell, MA. He is currently serving on the board of directors of two non-profits. Vyrik, born in Lawrence and raised in Lowell, is the third son of seven siblings brought up by a single mother who came to the U.S. as a refugee. Three decades ago, Vyrik’s mother, among millions of Cambodians, fled the Khmer Rouge because of genocide. She settled in Lowell and today, Cambodians make up a quarter of the city’s roughly 106,000 residents. Lowell is now the second-largest Cambodian community in the United States. Younger Cambodian-Americans, like Vyrik, are becoming leaders in the city: as teachers, entrepreneurs, directors of non-profits, and aspiring politicians. Many of these young leaders were once dancers in the Angkor Dance Troupe, growing up with strong ties and pride to their Cambodian heritage, and a commitment to preserving an art form almost destroyed during the genocide. For Vyrik and his family, growing up as first and second generation refugees was met with challenges. Their neighborhood was unsafe, with the sound of police sirens as the norm. As a teenager, his older brother - like many of his age - became involved in a gang. As for Vyrik, even the thought of going to school and not being able to speak fluent English wore on him. But at age 12, things changed. His older sister introduced him to the Angkor Dance Troupe, and this captured his interest. “After my first year in the Angkor Dance Troupe, my perspective on life changed. I learned Cambodian classical and folk dances, including the Monkey Dance, and was one of four dancers to choreograph and incorporate break-dancing moves, American-style music, and we actually performed at the White House.” In the dance troupe, Vyrik was able to celebrate being both Cambodian and American. In 1999, he and the troupe represented the City of Lowell in Philadelphia for “The All American City Award,” and
they won the award. It was the Angkor Dance Troupe that showed to be Cambodian from Lowell is as American as being Irish from Boston. Last year, the troupe celebrated its 25th Anniversary and remains a staple not only in the Cambodian community, but in Lowell. Housed at the Lowell National Historical Park, the troupe offers classes to over 80 students a week. Vyrik is one of over 1,000 students that has been touched by the troupe since its inception. Over the years, he’s been a dancer, a dance instructor, and a program coordinator for the organization. As a core member of the Board of Directors, Vyrik and the Angkor Dance Troupe announced a 10-year long-term vision for a permanent dance academy, a touring company, and ten master teachers.
“I joined the board of the Angkor Dance Troupe because I wanted to give back to the community and make a difference with young people. I also wanted to ensure that we preserve the traditions of Cambodian performing arts for generations to come.”
~In loving memory of Helen Gee Chin~
ONE WOMAN’S INFLUENCE...
...ON A POWERFUL
MAN’S LIFE by Victor Ng
T
he training lineage is very prominent in Calvin Chin’s Martial Arts Academy. In the early 70s, Calvin Chin, as a youngster, secured Master Kwong Tit Fu as his instructor. Master Kwong, while in Guangzhou, sought training from Lam Cho in Hong Kong. Lam Cho trained for 20 years with his famous uncle, Lam Sai Wing, labeled the best boxer of his time (1860–1943). Lam Sai Wing inherited the Hung Gar Style from his sifu, Wong Fei Hung; yes the one and only. The folktales say that Wong Fei Hung was recruited by the leader of the Black Flag Army to be the army’s medical officer and martial arts instructor. He was the founder of the Tiger Crane form that Master Chin uses today. Wong Fei Hung is depicted as a revolutionary hero and master of kung fu in movies such as the Drunken Master (1978), Once upon a time in China (1991), Iron Monkey (1993), and Around the World in 80 Days (2004). The training style taught by Master Calvin Chin is called Fu Hok Tai He Morn. This system is a mixture of Hung Gar Fu Hok kung fu, Wu style tai chi, and Mu Dong - Yat Hei Ngm Hahng Morn, an advanced level internal system. I remember seeing this group of martial artists perform when I lived at Tai Tung Village in the late 70’s. It was an intimidating group all dressed in black, wielding an assortment of cool weapons, while moving with smooth, swift form and technique. Master Calvin Chin was chosen as the principal disciple. Everyone knew that Master Kwong would pass the torch to Master Chin one day. But, Master Chin was self-employed in Chinatown and his wife was working in the banking industry, so taking on the responsibilities of an established school with all of its students was overwhelming. Raising two children, maintaining a stable paycheck and managing working relationships in the banking industry and the Chinatown restaurant industry were not easy tasks. But, before Master Kwong left this earth in 1999, he was able to realize that his school and all of the traditional Chinese virtues, discipline, and hundreds of years of passed down training would be continued after he retired in 1995. In 1996, Master Chin opened up his academy with his teacher’s blessing and the full support of his wonderful wife, Helen Gee Chin. Calvin described his relationship with his wife to be a “perfect” match. Helen was very supportive of Calvin’s martial arts and understood how important it was in his life. What young teenage girl wouldn’t dream of having a bad ass Kung Fu Master as a boyfriend and eventually as a husband? Together, they made a mission to preserve and promote traditional Chinese kung fu with an effort to encourage better health for everyone.“We seek to unravel the complexities of a traditional martial art, imparting theories from our multifaceted system in ways that can be easily learned, understood, and most importantly, carried out into other aspects of daily life. We want to enhance the well being of our members
as well as to produce life learners in an environment where both the body and mind are nurtured.” Helen devoted her life to this school, mastering many forms and eventually teaching a few adult students. In its early years, the school trained mainly adult students. Children eventually came to the school with their parents influence to maintain good health and Chinese heritage. Although good health had always been a focus of the school, it was an awful diagnosis of lung cancer that eventually took away a vital part of the school, the family, and the Master. “In a way, Helen’s sickness seemed to tighten the bond of the school,” says Master Chin. When she was sick, many of the long standing students kept the school running to allow Calvin the freedom to stay by Helen’s side. For five months, Helen fought the debilitating disease but eventually lost the battle in December 2010. Helen’s passing gave Master Chin a thirst to continue the school, but now with a new direction, a national scholarship bearing her name – the Helen Gee Chin Scholarship Foundation. Not only did it fuel the passion to continue the school, it brought national attention to encourage academic achievement and motivate individuals to become serious students of the Chinese martial arts. Candidates for this scholarship are students who plan to enroll full-time as an undergraduate at an accredited 4-year college or university and meet the minimum eligibility requirements: U.S. Citizen, 5 years minimum in Chinese Martial Arts (Kung Fu, Wu Shu, or Tai Chi), and a “B” average grade or better, will be eligible to submit their essay. In the first year, there were 6 applicants, and then multiplied as the national scholarship gained exposure in places such as Rhode Island, Florida, Houston, North Carolina and Baltimore. When asked what Helen would say about memorializing her in this way, Master Chin said that Helen loved kids and treated all young students in the academy as her own children. She would love the idea of helping young martial artists succeed. “But Helen probably would not want to use her name for the award since she was so modest and never took credit for anything.” Such modesty is the characteristic of most Asian women. But this particular woman was the strength, the courage and the will of this great Master Calvin Chin. Many can say that Martial Arts for Master Calvin Chin is not just a passion or a practice; “it is the way of life.”
Master Chin has lived a life with Helennow it seems he is living a life for Helen. The inspiration is breath-taking. Helen’s presents will always be received graciously by the students she taught, the foundation award recipients, and most of all her loving Husband.
Please visit Calvin Chin’s Martial Arts Academy & The Helen Gee Scholarship Foundation: Calvinchin.com and Hgcscholarshipfoundation.org
A
s one of the leading centers for music and culture in the U.S., Boston has a plethora of talented musicians of national and international prominence. Yet, it’s unusual to encounter a musician with a varied background such as Mr. Chi-Sun Chan. Mr. Chan is the conductor and music director of both the Greater Boston Chinese Cultural Association (GBCCA) Chinese Music Ensemble and Youth Chinese Music Ensemble. Since he took over the conductorship in 2002, both ensembles have
matured steadily, the youth ensemble, in particular. The directors, Tai-Chun and Tung-Mei Pan, have nothing but praise for Chan. “For the past 10 years,” said Pan, “he continuously raises the standard by challenging the members. He can be demanding at times, but leads with humor, and makes the rehearsals interesting and fun.” The youth ensemble has performed numerous times at the Boston Children’s Museum. Rachel Farkas, the Educator of Asia Program and Special Projects
at the museum, shared her thoughts and sentiments: “What speaks of Mr. Chan’s character and leadership is the performance quality and professionalism of the musicians he works with. To see their talents displayed and how articulately they introduce the various instruments is one of the best parts of their program. When children have so many extracurricular activities, it is impressive to see them sticking with something. While I am sure that is partly encouraged by the families, I think that it must also speak highly of
Chi-Sun Chan CHARACTER | LEADERSHIP | QUALITY By Virginia Payne
Mr. Chan as a teacher and conductor of the group. He has been able to hold their attention and keep the students engaged and constantly moving forward.” Here’s the catch: Chan’s background is western classical music. He received his Doctor of Musical Arts from Boston University, majoring in tuba! As a tuba player, he performed with such reputable orchestras as the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra, the National Taiwan Symphony Orchestra, the Civic Orchestra of Boston, and is cur-
rently a member of the Concord Band and the Concord Orchestra. Besides concert tours to Japan and Taiwan, his concert appearances include Carnegie Hall, Kennedy Center and Boston Symphony Hall. His wife, Shin-Yi Yang, is a musician and teacher of the Chinese instruments guzheng and guqin. In 2001, along with the help of his wife, he researched Chinese music and culture and gave his first Chinese music lecture in a world music class taught by Professor Lisa Urkevich
at Boston University. The professor encouraged him to continue with his Chinese music study. The following year, Yang was invited to perform a guzheng piece with the GBCCA Ensemble. When the conductor at the time wasn’t available, Yang suggested Chan fill the conducting position since he had previously served as a band director while in Hong Kong and Taiwan. The collaboration was quite successful. And the rest is history.
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http://youtu.be/1NOQt1O3_BA
Interviewed by Kevin Eam, Written by Anna Tsui
Standingatat6’0” 6’0”and and185 185lbslbsofofpure puremuscle, muscle,Mark MarkMunoz Munozis isa aforce forceto Standing be reckoned Munoz made his debut a mixed martial betoreckoned with.with. Munoz made his debut as a as mixed martial artist artist (MMA) in 2007, and scored 5 straight victories before joining (MMA) in 2007, and scored 5 straight victories before joining thethe middleweightdivision divisionof ofthe theUltimate UltimateFighting FightingChampionship Championship(UFC) (UFC) middleweight in 2009.inNicknamed ‘The Filipino Wrecking Machine,’ Munoz has a 2009. Nicknamed ‘The Filipino Wrecking Machine,’ record 13 wins, 0 draws, onewith Munoz has aofrecord of 313losses wins, and 5 losses and 0with draws, submission and six knockouts. one submission and six knockouts. Hissuccess successcomes comesfrom froman analmost almostsuper-human super-humandrive drivefor forhard hardwork work His and training. “When I feel like quitting, I just go harder,” says Munoz. and training. “When I feel like quitting, I just go harder,” says Munoz. Outof ofthe thering, ring,he heisisknown knownfor forhis hisincredible incrediblework workethic ethicas asdescribed described Out by his trainer Todd Norman. “No one else that I have ever trained by his trainer Todd Norman. “No one else that I have ever trained worksas ashard, hard,as asdiligent diligentand andas asconsistent consistentas asMark.” Mark.” works Commitment, discipline and desire are the words to liveby byfrom from Commitment, discipline and desire are the words to live Munoz.It’s It’sthis thisrelentless relentlessstrive strivetoward towardself-improvement self-improvementthat thathas has Munoz. made him the #7 ranked middleweight MMA fighter in the world. made him a top-ranked middleweight MMA fighter in the world. Withinhis hischiseled chiseledexterior, exterior,there thereisisaasteadfast steadfastleader leaderand andaa Within dedicated teacher. These are traits that he picked up from his dedicated teacher. These are traits that he picked up from his humbleroots rootsthat thatcontinue continueto toshape shapehis hisfighting fightingand andhis hislife. life. humble Munoz came from a Filipino military family background. He was born Munoz came from a Filipino military family background. He was onon a naval base in in Yokosuka, Japan, and moved to to Vallejo, born a naval base Yokosuka, Japan, and moved Vallejo, California, where he grew up and where he was initiated intothe the California, where he grew up and where he was initiated into worldof offighting. fighting.Munoz Munozremembers remembersgetting gettingbeat beatup upover overaapair pairof of world shoes as a child and having to deal with violence on the streets at shoes as a child and having to deal with violence on the streets at aa youngage. age.To Tocope, cope,he hebegan beganwrestling wrestlingininhis histeens. teens.In Inhigh highschool, school, young his talents earned him, not one, but two, State Wrestling his talents earned him, not one, but two, State Wrestling Championshipsand andhe hewas wasone oneof ofthe themost mostdecorated decoratedcollege college Championships wrestlers in mixed martial arts. He was the first Filipino-American at wrestlers in mixed martial arts. He was the first Filipino-American at theDivision DivisionIILevel Levelto towin winaaNational NationalChampionship. Championship.His Hiswrestling wrestling the success eventually led him to the UFC and the rest is history. success eventually led him to the UFC and the rest is history. ForMunoz, Munoz,spirituality spiritualityand andfamily familyare arehis hisfoundations. foundations.“I“Ifight fightfor formy my For family and I fight for God.” He draws inspiration from his parents family and I fight for God.” He draws inspiration from his parents forall allthe thesacrifices sacrificesthey theymade madefor forhim himand andhis hissiblings, siblings,especially especially for his older sister who had a big part in raising him. He also creditshis his his older sister who had a big part in raising him. He also credits wrestlingcoaches coachesand andbible biblestudy studyteachers teacherswho whohelped helpedhim himfocus focus wrestling his talents to be the star he is today. When asked by the UFC who his his talents to be the star he is today. When asked by the UFC who his heroeswere, were,Munoz Munozreplied, replied,“My “Myparents, parents,Randy RandyCouture, Couture,John JohnSmith Smith heroes (both MMA fighters) and Jesus Christ.” (both MMA fighters) and Jesus Christ.”
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the FILIPINO
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Surprisingly, Munoz didn’t always intend to do this as a profession. “I would never have thought that I’d be fighting in my life,” he says. Previous to his UFC fame, Munoz received a Bachelor’s in Health Science at Oklahoma State University and began a Masters in Sports Psychology before becoming professionally involved in the world of MMA. He wants to be a coach and finds his true calling is coaching fighters on how to improve their craft. “I’m a better coach than I am an athlete. For me, I’m able to see a fighter and patch his style and also improve his weaknesses, and refine his strengths.” He advises athletes and anyone looking to succeed on the necessity of being resilient. Munoz has mastered this mentality of pushing through adversity to achieve his goals and it has helped him rise to the top. He adds, “You must push beyond your limits to achieve beyond your limit.” This is his formula for success that he lives and breathes as he continues to train and inspire the next generation of fighters.
RECKING
he ino
machine machine
U N B O U N D E D W
hen there is a conversation on the history of Boston’s Asian-American theatre, one must mention the works of Christina Chan, an actress, who has been a major force for the past 20 years. Born in Hong Kong in 1960, Christina moved to Boston with her family before she turned three. She is instantly recognizable by her trademark “happy” laugh. She says that community activism motivates her to act. Her acting study began in 1990, where for two years she performed at the Trinity Rep Conservatory in Rhode Island, and
was a teaching artist at Boston’s Citi Performing Arts Center. Since 1996, Christina has been touring nationally with her first onewoman play, “Unbinding Our Lives.” It’s about three Chinese-American women around the time of the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882, who were sold into child slavery, prostitution and abandoned. The play is based on “Unbinding Our Lives Our Feet,” a dissertation by Judy Young. Geralyn Horton, a local playwright made it into a play upon Christina’s request. It was first performed at Boston Center for
the Arts in 1991, when she was a resident artist. The play has since become her life work. Another one-woman play, “Behind Closed Doors” (1997), which Christina wrote, deals with immigrant reform signed by President Clinton in 1996, and is based on her interviews with 29 Asian-Americans. Christina plays 14 characters, both male and female, including a senator, a male columnist and teenagers. Her natural comedic flair shines through “Bobby Pins Up Their Nose” (2004), co-written and performed by Judy Tso and Christina Chan, about Asian-American women who try to manipulate their bodies to fit the mainstream American cultural idea of beauty. Her current project is called “Breaking Silences Project,” which is a multi-faceted artistic endeavor and dynamic theatrical piece, based on a collection of writings from AsianAmerican women who have experienced mental health and depression issues during high school and college. Christina says, “Statistics indicate that Asian-American women, ages 15-24, have a higher rate of suicide than Caucasians, African Americans or Latinos in that age group…and AsianAmerican adolescent girls have the highest rates of depressive symptoms of all ethnic and gender groups. The project proposes to break the silence around these issues and to workshop addressing these issues.” Christina says she writes to create work for herself as an actor. There’s still a shortage of work, but there’s also freedom to create. Let’s see our own Asian-American theatre community grow. We need more people like Christina Chan.
RAINBOW BRIDGE By Mariko Kanto Photo by Benson Tang
rainbow bridge
When talking to Melody Fury, one can sense her passion and excitement about food. Her enthusiasm is infectious! Melody is the Founder, CEO and self-proclaimed Food Smitten Entrepreneur of Vancouver Food Tour. She is also a talented photographer and food writer, garnering accolades, including winning Best Travel Blog at the 2011 Canadian Weblog Awards. The idea for Vancouver Food Tour started from her constant emails with requests for restaurant recommendations. Realizing a great business opportunity, she decided to actually take people to restaurants (instead of just pointing them to places) to create a great experience. Passionate about quality, local food and craft cocktails, she was able to share her love with others—tourists and locals alike.
Melody is from Hong Kong and came over to Vancouver at 8 years old. Food has always played a role in her life. Her favorite memory as a child was Sunday night dinners where 20 family members crammed into her grandmother’s home with everyone lending a hand. Vancouver boasts some of the best outstanding Cantonese cuisine and dim sum outside of Asia. When Melody opened her own restaurant, she credited industry professional and mentor, Nancy Wong, for her guidance. Since she launched Vancouver Food Tour in 2010, it has been growing and expanding to meet the rising demand for tours which now includes culinary event planning. Social media played a huge part in getting the word out, and the local publication The Westender’s Best of the City awarded Melody “The Local Entrepreneur of the Year” title in 2011. Vancouver Food Tour promises no restaurant chains or tourist traps. What they do promise: You get to mingle with industry professionals and be treated as a friend. The tours are kept to small groups to allow for social interaction and a more intimate feel. Through the Vancouver Food Tour, she has made many friends from all over the world. Whenever she travels, she has a friend in each city to give her the inside-scoop on the local food scene. While doing restaurant research, she stumbled upon her future husband’s blog entry. It turns out that they saw each other’s blogs, and he eventually took her food tour while visiting Vancouver. The rest is history! Melody will continue to develop Vancouver Food Tour, and hone her photography skills to expand that side of the business. Her ambitious plans also include writing a book, completing grad school and launching a successful food related application.
MELODY FURY
by Anna Ing
Dr. Nahyoung Grace Lee Joins Mass. Eye and Ear ... and offers ophthalmic plastic surgery with specialized expertise in cosmetic eyelid surgery, ophthalmic oncology, ophthalmic pathology.
N
ahyoung “Grace� Lee, a board-certified ophthalmologist, has joined Massachusetts Eye and Ear to provide expert care for people with eye cancer in addition to ophthalmic plastic surgery with specialized expertise in Asian eyelid surgery.
Ocular Pathology and Oncology at the Casey Eye Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, where she received specialized training in the treatment of choroidal melanoma, retinoblastoma and other ocular tumors.
Dr. Lee received the competitive AUPO Dr. Lee is a full-time ophthalmologist in research award given to four residents or the Mass. Eye and Ear Ophthalmic Plastic fellows in the country each year, for her Surgery Service. After graduating cum laude research in gene expression in non-specific from Johns Hopkins University with an un- orbital inflammation. She joined Mass. dergraduate degree in Neuroscience, Dr. Lee Eye and Ear as a Clinical Research Fellow completed her medical training at Johns in Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Hopkins University School of Medicine. Surgery, where in addition to her clinical During medical school, she received nusubspecialty training, she engaged in innomerous awards and scholarships, including vative research on orbital angiogenesis and a National Science Foundation Research lymphangiogenesis in thyroid eye disease. Scholar award and a Harold Lamport Student Research Award. She further honed her subspecialty and surgical training during a two-year In 2007, she completed an internship Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive in General Surgery at Kaiser Permanente Surgery fellowship at Mass. Eye and Los Angeles Medical Center, and then enEar, and received the prestigious Heed tered the residency program at Doheny Eye Ophthalmic Foundation Fellowship Award Institute, University of Southern California. in 2013-2014. Subsequently, she completed a fellowship in
Angel Lin
DREAM PROJECT
A
s a feature writer for Asian Boston Magazine for the past 6 years, it’s been a pleasure sharing stories about the good old days in Boston’s Chinatown. I thought it’d be a nice touch to catch up and share what I’ve been doing these days as well. In my semi-retirement, I provide college access service, three days per week, at the ASA College Planning Center (formerly the Teri College Planning Center). The center is located at the Boston Public Library at Copley Square. Five years ago, a group of high school students arrived at the center during the peak financial aid season. It was an extremely busy Saturday, with the waiting area already filled to capacity. The high school group - Asian seniors from North Quincy High School - appeared uninformed and unprepared.
Unable to assist them, we asked them to come back at a later date. Dejectedly, the group agreed to return, then departed. Unexplainably however, I pursued them and promised that if they returned a week later, better-prepared, I would personally accommodate their needs. It was a noble gesture, except that I wasn’t scheduled to work the following Saturday. Nevertheless, I received management’s permission to assist the group, and with
pay. In any case, I was more than willing to a single Saturday. On that Saturday, the me with North Quincy students was a huge suc However, while the students expressed the gratitude, they also informed me that othe were in need of such service.
Saying “No” was never one of my gr strengths, so I gave up my next few Saturda as well. In spite of the extra work, I made lo friends and felt better about myself. Word spread and the program grew modestly tha first year. I felt like a guidance counselor ag Something special was created and I unoffi named it “the Dream Project.” The next yea numbers doubled. A few years later, we incl a new group from Quincy High School. The students were also participants at the Episc Quincy Chinese Center (EQCC). In 2011, th gram included alumni clients and client nu exceeded one hundred. At this point, with a sponsor - American Student Assistance (AS ditions at the Center improved and the pro more smoothly. Just what is this “Dream Project?” A it’s a workshop group for Asian seniors from high schools in Quincy, MA. The mission is
DREAM
PROJECT By Cliff Wong
o sacrifice eeting ccess. eir ers
vide financial aid literacy for a disadvantaged population in Quincy. My primary role is to promote an awareness of the process for seniors and to assist with financial aid applications. More importantly, I had a nobler task to serve as mentor and role model.
reat ays ots of soon at gain! icially ar, the luded ese copal he proumbers a new SA), conoject ran
The program is flourishing (though not easy to quantify) as evident in the bonding between me and the students. Continued visits and emails from alumni are generally proof of any program’s success. The Dream Project emanated from something that took place on that Saturday afternoon, five years ago.
Annually, m two s to pro-
For me – in addition to providing service for young people - the most important factor of the project is to discover my own purpose in life. As an educator with an enriching history as a guidance counselor, community service mentor, and coach, giving back to my community is not something new; The Dream Project provides a unique opportunity to continue my purpose. One might guess that the star of such a project would be its protagonist (yours truly), but that’s not entirely true. After six years, the stars of the Dream Project have been many. They’re
the students whom I serve who give me strength and inspiration to continue, it’s the American Student Assistance (ASA) that provides support (and salary), and it’s the Episcopal Quincy Chinese Center for helping with the program’s expansion. There were also the student-volunteers who served as peer leaders, who lent to the program’s success. This is a “Dream Project” because of the special bonding I have with my clients. Assisting them is almost like providing for my own children. I serve genuinely, joyously, and freely. In his bestselling novel, “Purpose of a Driven Life,” renowned evangelist, Rick Warren, informs us that God puts us on this earth for His purpose. We are here to serve and never to retire. Warren believes that we have an obligation to find our purpose on this earth and to serve it. I may have inadvertently found mine.
BIACO
Boston International Asian Choir & Orchestra By Valerie Li
GREAT STRIDES
E
dgar Yipsel Harburg (American song lyricist) once said, “Words make you think. Music makes you feel. A song makes you feel a thought.” The greatness of a song is not only about the melody that is created by the composer, but the spirit and happiness that is delivered by singers as well. It was a delightful Saturday morning; I felt a stream of happiness come over me when I stepped into the rehearsal room of BIACO, the Boston International Asian Choir & Orchestra. There was a group of Chinese kids, ages 6 to 9, practicing for an upcoming performance. The parents brought their children to help them make a connection to their Chinese heritage while also honing the children’s musical talents. “My kid never spoke Chinese at home before,” said a father who immigrated to America 10 years ago. He continues, “After he joined the
choir, he started to sing Chinese songs that were taught by the teachers.” Jean Foo, the founder of BIACO, said that the goal is to provide a platform for Asian musicians and students in the Boston area to highlight their musical talents and skills. Her mission, foremost, is to help members who have a very limited music foundation. Second, is to gain experience in recognizing the strengths and weaknesses of a growing group. Starting with a pilot adult group in October 2011, BIACO is a relatively fast-growing organization, but not without challenges. Most members have no previous training, so Jean and other coaches teach members how to read music and other aspects through repetition. “The most challenging aspect is helping members build confidence and getting them to believe that they can achieve in the performing arts,” states Jean.
Despite the learning curves, “Our members witness their own improvements and shock themselves at what they have musically achieved,” expressed Jean, “such as being unable to read notes at the outset, to singing a piece acapella (sing without music) in less than 12 lessons.” During the interview, I met some parents. It came as no surprise that they all gave their approval of the ideology and methodology that Jean promotes. More importantly, they all agree on the fact that BIACO brings inspiration and happiness to their families.
Words make you think. Music makes you feel. A song makes you feel a thought. ASIAN BOSTON
Connecting Cultures
Court Etiquette Russell Chin, Esq.,
offers some excellent advice and reminders on how to conduct oneself in the courtroom...
Show respect for the Court You do not have to buy new clothes for court but halters, worn out jeans and tee-shirts are not appropriate. Don’t chew gum, eat or drink in the courtroom. Be sure to shut off your cell phone.
Be on time If you miss your hearing, the judge can make orders that you may not agree with, which may seriously affect you.
Don’t bring children into Court Many of the topics discussed in court are not appropriate for young children. Please arrange for a friend or relative to watch your children while you are in court.
Stand when the Judge enters or leaves the courtroom The court officer will tell you when to sit and stand. If you are in doubt, stand when the judge is standing. You can usually sit down once the judge is seated, unless you are speaking with the judge.
Stand and speak when the Judge talks to you Remain standing as long as you and the judge are talking. You may need to stay standing even if the judge talks to the person on the other side of your case. If in doubt, ask the judge before sitting down.
The Judge will let you know when to speak Never get into an argument or even a discussion with the other side in front of the judge. Always speak directly to the judge, unless the judge allows you to answer formal questions from the other side.
Speak clearly You need to speak and not just nod or shake your head because court proceedings are always recorded. Listen carefully to the questions you are asked. Be direct and to the point when answering questions.
Always address the judge as “Your Honor” The judge must keep order in the courtroom and will be making important decisions. Be respectful and understand that the judge likes to keep the proceedings as orderly as possible. This helps keep the process fair to everyone.
Your case may be “Taken Under Advisement” This means that the judge needs time to think about how to decide your case and the court will mail the decision to you once it is made. Make sure that the court has your current mailing address.
Do not talk on your way out or even right outside the door Many times another hearing starts as soon as yours ends; and your talking can interfere with the next case. These guidelines and all Court rules apply to attorneys and clients.
CHINESE
IN THE CIVIL WAR By Henry Jung, Ed. D (University of Mass., Amherst)
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ith 2013 being the 150th anniversary of the American Civil War, there is much discussion on the role of minorities. However, what has been practically unknown is the role of Asian-Americans in this conflict. The Chinese were a very small population in the Eastern United States at the beginning of the war, probably no more than 300-400. Yet, researchers and scholars believe that there were at least 50 or so who served in the Union forces (army and navy). Some even served with the Confederacy, several with the Virginia and Tennessee cavalry, as well as the Louisiana infantry. At least three were in Union uniform at the Battle of Gettysburg—there is a photo of Cpl. Joseph Pierce (14th Connecticut) at the visitors center at Gettysburg. The other men were Cpl. John Tommy of the 70th New York (who later died of wounds suffered in the battle) and Pvt. Antonio Darnell of the 27th Connecticut. Many Chinese service members had to adopt “Anglo” names to avoid discrimination and harassment. Here in Massachusetts, there was Edward Day Cohata, an orphaned, stowaway adopted by a white sea captain from Gloucester (there is a photo of the middle-aged Cohata and his elderly adopted father at the Cape Ann Museum). He enlisted in the 23rd Massachusetts and was at the Battle of Drury’s Bluff and Cold Harbor.
Cohata made the army his career and stayed for 30 years, spending much of that time on the Western frontier (for a time he guarded the prisoner Chief Sitting Bull). Unfortunately, in the PostReconstruction era, there were a series of anti-Chinese laws passed. These laws deprived Chinese residents of their civil rights. The Chinese veterans either lost or never received their citizenship despite promises made during the war. Pierce and Darnell were forced to change their racial classification to protect their citizenship, while Cohata was refused citizenship despite outstanding military service. William Hang, a Union navy veteran, was arrested at the voting booth in New York City because his citizenship was cancelled. Finally, after much struggle, in 2008, Congress passed a resolution honoring the service of these men and giving them posthumous citizenship. There are many stories to be told from both sides, Blue and Gray including Cpl. Tommy who “dissed” a Confederate general during an interrogation; Pvt. Ching Lee, who survived the infamous Andersonville Prison; Chinese volunteers who served with Colored Troops; John Akomb, a Union gunboat crewman, wounded twice, and the dashing cavalryman of a wealthy Chinese Confederate family in Virginia.
Joseph Pie
ASIAN BOSTON
rce
Connecting Cultures
by Lau Lapides
As the Voice-Over industry is rapidly expanding into an international market, demands for global talent are significantly increasing. The Lau Lapides company is taking a unique, one-to-one approach in training voice-over talent, helping build their confidence, and preparing them for the business and marketing challenges of today’s industry. A few selected clients stand out in our minds; Angel Lin and Ed Liu are some of the “up and coming” talent to watch in the industry. With their cool, fresh, and innovative portfolios, they are some of the best we’ve seen. We had a chance to chat with them, as well as our audio partners in NYC, Ed and Pete Chung, founders of B11 Entertainment: What inspired you to become a voice over talent?
What have been your favorite jobs?
Liu: I’m going to say it was probably cartoons. That was really where I discovered voice over acting as a talent. In the early 90’s, I realized that it is an absolute discipline. That is when I started to pay attention to it.
Peter Chung: I’ve worked on a bunch of corporate gigs, and it’s interesting to come up with these instructional clips for top companies like American Express.
What attracts you to voice over work? Liu: One thing that appeals to me about Voice Over work are the avenues that it opens up to the Asian acting community. When I was growing up, Asian women were exotic beauties or Dragon Ladies and Asian men were nerds, houseboys, or martial arts masters. I don’t really see a whole lot more opportunities for Asian actors today in mainstream on-camera work. The great thing about Voice Over work is that it doesn’t matter what I look like, so I can audition and get cast in roles that wouldn’t be open to me in a live-action context. How does appearance play a part in the industry…does it? Lin: In film, TV, and theater, it matters how you look or how you move. But when it comes to the Voice Over industry, I feel that there is a certain degree of extra freedom because it could be anyone behind the microphone.
What are your thoughts on preparation? Lin: In VO work, especially if you are thinking about going into the acting part of it, it’s key to start off and train as an actor first, and then transfer that into the microphone. To do exceptional VO work, like in commercials or narration, it’s all about coaching, practicing at home, and then just going for it! What kind of mindset should someone have thinking about this as a career? Ed Chung: I believe that there is no substitute for actually trying something and then working out the kinks. If you’re willing to do that on your own, I think that is an essential part of the preparation. It is important to be ready and know what to do when things don’t go right and to be able to think quickly on your feet. We seem to have a knack for discovering the hidden gems of the industry, and these are just a few. Just think what the next decade will bring for young Asian VO talent! The possibilities are endless…
Angel Lin
by Liwen Wang
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ith light and lively steps, a teacher runs to the center of the classroom and waits for the music to start. Students focus their gaze upon each of her slightest movements. She raises her right foot gently, shifts her weight almost imperceptibly, and with an expressive breath, starts the first step. The music is a recording of the gu zheng, a traditional Chinese string instrument. Following the flow of the rich melody, she moves effortlessly, elegantly, and swiftly in space. This is Ma Jia’s dance class.
After passing the competitive entrance exam of the Beijing Dance Academy, the most prestigious dance school in China, 10-year-old Ma Jia left her home in Lanzhou, the capital city of Gansu Province to begin her intensive dance training. After six years of hard work and homesickness, she earned the reputation of being one of best students in Beijing, and also received the highest honor granted to dance students there — for which she was granted college admission without having to take entrance exams. Her top grades in college subsequently gave her the opportunity to stay on at the Beijing Dance Academy as a dance instructor for teenage dancers. After two years of teaching, in order to continue her dance studies, broaden her knowledge, and explore modern dance techniques, she traveled to the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts on a full scholarship to study dance pedagogy and psychology. In the meantime, she also attended numerous dance workshops in the U.S. and other countries. As she traveled and gained exposure throughout the world, she absorbed new ways of thinking about dance and art and began to develop her own new teaching methods. It was during these years that her teaching philosophy truly blossomed. Equipped with such a philosophy, Ma Jia returned to Beijing to teach. This time, she began teaching the college students at the Beijing Dance Academy. She ignored the bureaucracy of the school system, avoided the old teachers’ critical eyes, experimented with her own style of teaching, and shared her new ideas with students. After two years, although she could see that her methods had enabled her students to make tremendous improvements in their technique and artistry, she felt constrained by the school’s rigid and traditional policies. Longing to further develop her teaching in a freer environment, she moved to the U.S. in 2011, and started teaching in the greater Boston area. In 2013, with great courage and aspirations, Ma Jia and Men Lu, also a dance teacher from Beijing, established a dance studio: M Square Dance. Emphasizing a holistic dance education, as opposed to a solely one-dimensional technical training, Ma Jia confidently leads her students to better technique, a clearer understanding of dance as an art form, and inspires them to develop into well-rounded artists.
PRAD
By Yurie Okada
Model: Lisa Photographer: Kelsey Young
ASIAN | BOSTON
CASTING & MEDIA abcm@asianboston.com
ASIAN BOSTON
Connecting Cultures
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IN
ho wouldn’t want to find love in NYC? That’s probably why you are in or would like to be in New York City in the first place, right? Or was it because you dreamed of being on Broadway or Wall Street – something like Jay-Z’s ‘Empire State of Mind’ catchy lyrics, “…where dreams are made of…big lights will inspire you…” From the sky-high rooftop lounges to the picturesque tree-lined neighborhoods out of a Woody Allen movie, to the hustle and bustle of the subway, to the famous Central Park – the mecca of everything romantic and idealistic of amour. Whatever the reasons are, you truly can’t help but be inspired to find romance when you’re in this concrete jungle. For example, let’s meet Brad – a young attractive professional from the Financial District, looking for the one special lady that could meet his bottom line. Then, there’s MaiLinh – a thirty-something aspiring pop-singing from New England, now a Manhattanite on a hunt for her prince charming (courtesy of Disney, of course). On the other hand, there’s the over-fifty Vicky, who’s divorced and a single mom, but still wants to give holy matrimony another shot (of whiskey, maybe?). Well, what these three hopeful individuals have in common is their search for ‘The One’, the soul mate, Mr./Mrs. Right in one of the worst cities for single people looking for love. That’s right! NYC ranked third on Facebook’s list of ‘Least Likely Cities for Love,” as noted in the Wall Street Journal recently. Feel free to double-check that if you like - scroll through your NYC friends’ list on Facebook and see what their Relationship
Status states. Ahem, s.i.n.g.l.e. (aka ‘it’s complicated’). Alright, you probably get the point, so let’s move on to examine why statistically speaking – NYC isn’t such a favorable place for people like Brad, Mai-Linh and Vicky to find love. One core factor is that the ongoing ratio of women to men is lop-sided with 4 women to every man. A report from Glamour magazine a few months ago showed there are about 150,000 more single women than single men here. That is distressing news for women, especially those with a ticking biological clock, who’s literally racing against time trying to find a husband and start a family. That’s a major reason why Mai-Linh has frightened away some of her prospective princes. After a month or so of dating, she is pressured to measure up these men to ensure that they are of husband-made material with daddy-potential qualities. She only has a few good years left to be able to still bear children; therefore, she has to maneuver swiftly through the stages of courtship, meet the parents, marriage proposal, wedding, honeymoon, and finally, having babies.
IF IT CAN HERE, I HAPPEN AN
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HAPPEN IT CAN NYWHERE.
Meanwhile, Vicky has to compete with her single girlfriends in meeting a guy when they’re ‘painting the town’ together. Then, they have to compete with the other single females who have an advantage by simply being in the younger age group. Vicki said, “men in this city have a vast selection of smart, beautiful, and funny gals to chose from like they do with their TV/Satellite Dish at home. They just surf and surf without really committing to any one channel.” This phenomenon definitely rings true for Brad as a single guy in the big city. He admits to having a difficult time choosing amongst the pool of quality single women out there. For instance, he would meet a cute girl on Saturday, and then find an even better one on Sunday, who, like Brad, happens to be a soccer fan as well. It couldn’t get any better until happy hour on Thursday where he meets Cassandra. Just her name alone is enough to seduce him into a state of amnesia with the other girls on his iPhone. He and Cassandra were exclusive for only three weeks. Now, he’s back to the drawing board swiping
by Julie T. Pham
right and left to find that next potential…Mrs. Right Now. For every Brad, Vicky, and Mai-Linh in the dating arena, there are countless other women and men in similar, if not, the same situations. But, don’t despair, as there’s always a light at the end of the tunnel. As with every failed dating story, there’s also a success dating experience that could lead to a long-term relationship that might eventually spawn into happy matrimony, which may or may not be your ultimate goal. Just look at Jay-Z and his wife Beyonce – they’re the royal couple of the Big Apple! Ok, fine, let’s look at a more pragmatic example like your friends and loved ones. Look to your parents, siblings, college friends, or role models for uplifting love stories that could motivate a better dating lifestyle and practice. If you’re still searching for that perfect someone, you can stop searching this instance, as there’s no such thing as perfect. Instead, look for the person you enjoy talking to or doing activities with that bring you pleasure, learning new things or ideas from one another, and definitely sharing and opening yourself up to new possibilities and opportunities without a second thought. Do try other dating methods besides online matchmaking web sites and/or hook-up apps to meet your potential mate. Oftentimes, meeting someone in an organic environment, like at a friend’s party, social function or concert, could be a game changer to the same old routine. Especially, in a city that never sleeps.
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by Vienne Cheung
Now that fall has arrived, it’s time to shop for pattern stockings to keep your gams warm and fabulous. To start, we recommend a few patterns from for your fall wardrobe:
Argyle pattern prints, Lacy thigh highs, and Holes alisea Your legs offer lots of real estate to make a statement for yourself, and pattern is the way to do it. Here are some do’s and don’ts on how to wear patterned hosiery:
1.
Do keep it simple...
It’s not a good idea to wear the same pattern on top and on the bottom. Some people may like to do this, but we think clashing will cause distraction. You want the attention to remain on the most important part of your outfit, which is your hosiery. Therefore, don’t let things get too busy. One way of doing this is wearing black with your favorite pair of printed stockings. Wearing black will neutralize the intricate design of your stockings, resulting in all eyes on you!
2.
Don’t wear the wrong shoes...
Patterned hosiery and peephole shoes just don’t go together – it’s plain silly! Wearing any type of sandals with hosiery is also not the best idea. Decide what the occasion is and try wearing boots, flats, or stilettos. You want to accentuate your legs, and wearing the right shoes will do that. You now have the perfect look of sophistication!
3.
Do wear high quality stockings...
This tip is meant for lace stockings and fishnets. By wearing high-quality stockings, you won’t have to worry about stiff and uncomfortable threads that cut into your legs. You also won’t have to worry about delicate material that rips easily...which can be embarrassing! High quality stockings will definitely keep your legs warm during the colder months, while also looking much more fashionable. The beauty of pattern stockings is that they can be worn for every occasion.
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