PRSRT STD U.S. Postage Paid Permit No. 746 Seattle, WA
VOL 39 NO 35 AUGUST 29 – SEPTEMBER 4, 2020 FREE 38 YEARS YOUR VOICE
Photos by Keoke Silvano
ID’s first mural sparks a movement across ID, Seattle
Keoke Silvano poses against the mural at Jade Garden restaurant that sparked a movement
By Janice Nesamani NORTHWEST ASIAN WEEKLY Halfway around the world on the Indonesian island of
The artists that painted the first mural at Jade Garden restaurant
Sulawesi are a series of hands stenciled on the walls of a cool, damp cave. A neighboring cave has the image of a Babirusa, dating back roughly 39,900 years. Scholars call them the first human figurative art. The murals bear
I-5 Underpass Park Steering Committee strives to please community, preserve culture
■
Nikki Haley defends Trump at RNC
in place since 2016, decided to get moving again on plans to improve the area underneath I-5 at Jackson and King Streets. The Committee has sought community feedback before, when it collected close to 300 surveys in 2016 from International District residents as to their thoughts on what to do with this mostly unused space that is an aesthetic and safety concern. see I-5 UNDERPASS PARK on 9
see HALEY on 10
Courtesy of SiteWorkshop and Interim CDA
“When the (I-5) freeway was built in the 1960s, it created a blighted community, a very unattractive space, and it also cleaved the community in half.” These words, spoken by Tom Im, began the first community meeting of the I-5 Underpass Park Steering Community, part of Interim CDA. Delayed due to the pandemic, the committee, which has been
see JADE GARDEN on 11
COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley took aim at Democrats during a prime speaking slot at the Republican National Convention (RNC) on Aug. 24—who she says label America as racist: “That is a lie. America is not a racist country.” Born Nimrata Randhawa to Indian immigrants, Haley served Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley as President Donald Trump’s first ambassador to the United Nations. While she spent much of her speech criticizing Democratic candidate Joe Biden and praising Trump, she also invoked her Indian immigrant heritage and position as a “Brown girl in a Black-and-white world” as she argued for a constructive way of uniting the country in the face of racial hatred. Haley’s speech took on added symbolism coming on the heels of the Democratic National Convention (DNC)’s nomination of Kamala Harris, a Black woman with Indian and Jamaican immigrant parents, for vice president of the United States. Haley has long been seen as one of the rising Republican stars who may be positioning herself for a next step. She served at the United Nations until
Example of brainstorming done in breakout sessions where ideas were added with sticky notes.
By Kai Curry NORTHWEST ASIAN WEEKLY
testament to a people and their way of life. They seem to say: “We were here!” “Look, what we lived through!”
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asianweekly northwest
38 YEARS
AUGUST 29 – SEPTEMBER 4, 2020
■ NAMES IN THE NEWS
Photo by John Liu
Washington House Democrats
CID Night Market goes virtual
Chen began her career at KABC as a morning producer, was promoted to executive producer in 2014 and assistant news director in 2019. In the past year, under Chen’s leadership and direction, the newsroom garnered three regional Edward R. Murrow Awards for news coverage. She is also a member of the Asian American Journalists Association.
ICHS honors Harry Chan
State Rep. My-Linh Thai presented Washington’s vote for the Democratic Party’s nomination for president during the 2020 Democratic National Convention.
Chinatown-International District Business Improvement Area (CIDBIA) announced that its annual Night Market—originally scheduled for Sept. 12—will go virtual instead on Oct. 1. The CID Night Market is one of Seattle’s largest openair markets that provides attendees an opportunity to taste a variety of street food and sample popular staples by neighborhood restaurants. On Aug. 20, the CIDBIA said, “The combination of a global health pandemic and much civil unrest, we recognize that supporting and uplifting these businesses are critical to the economic recovery of our neighborhood. Like every challenge, we will get through this difficult time in history.”
nominee. In a recorded message from Seattle, Thai, a former refugee, also shared her commitment to the public schools that gave her a chance to contribute to her new home.
Pam Chen named VP of ABC7/ KABC-TV Los Angeles
Thai presents WA’s votes to nominate Biden
State Rep. My-Linh Thai served as Washington’s representative during the roll call at the 2020 Democratic National Convention last week, and presented our state’s vote to nominate Joe Biden as the party’s presidential
Photo provided by Theo Bickel/ICHS
Attendees checked out a huge variety of food vendors at the 2019 Night Market.
Pam Chen
Pam Chen has become the first Asian American to lead a news department at a network-owned television station in Los Angeles. On Aug. 18, ABC7/ KABC-TV announced that Chen was named its vice president and news director, and she will be responsible for directing the Eyewitness News team for ABC7.
From left: Heidi Wong, Harry Chan, and Ron Chew
On Aug. 18, ICHS staff, including Ron Chew, Heidi Wong, Tagoipah Mathno, Debbie Louie, and Theo Bickel, visited Harry Chan, the owner of Tai Tung restaurant, to present him with a gift. Rick Wong created a photograph with Chan in a superhero image in front of his restaurant. ICHS said, “Harry has been such a community pillar, supporting not only ICHS but Kin On and so many of our community partners. We wanted to surprise him with a gift to show a small token of appreciation for all he does.”
YOUR VOICE
■ COMMUNITY NEWS
AUGUST 29 – SEPTEMBER 4, 2020
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ACRS joins coalition in lawsuit over USCIS’ new fee rule injunction of the rule to prevent it from going into effect on Oct. 2. “The 83% fee increase and the elimination of the fee waiver for the application to naturalize constitute a wealth test for the American Dream, and this cannot stand. For that reason, ACRS is proud to stand with other immigration service providers from across the country to legally challenge the unjust and unnecessary fee increases at USCIS,” said ACRS Executive Director Michael Byun.
SAM reopening in September
SEATTLE — The Seattle Art Museum (SAM) will reopen its downtown museum to the general public on Sept. 11. The museum will initially be at a limited capacity and open Fridays through Sundays, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. “We are so excited to welcome everyone back to the museum,” said Amada Cruz, Illsley Ball Nordstrom Director and CEO. “Seeing art in person is an irreplaceable experience, and with fewer visitors in the space, it will also be a uniquely intimate one.” The SAM Shop and SAM Gallery will also reopen. TASTE Café at SAM, the Seattle Asian Art Museum, and the PACCAR Pavilion at the Olympic Sculpture Park remain closed until further notice. The museum said it has been carefully planning for the reopening based on recommendations of
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state, local, and federal authorities. Among the new safety protocols: Tickets are available online only. Timed tickets have been instituted to limit capacity and ensure physical distancing. Visitors will have their temperatures checked upon entering the building. Masks are required for all staff and visitors over the age of 2, and physical distancing is aided by floor labels throughout the museum. A few galleries remain closed, and others limit the number of visitors within the space at a time. One-way traffic flows in smaller galleries assist with physical distancing. For more details, go to visitsam.org/comeback.
As the largest naturalization provider in Washington state, ACRS helps over 700 people apply for citizenship each year. In a news release, ACRS said, “Based on our work on the frontlines, we know the fee rule will hurt and harm older immigrant adults, immigrants with disabilities, and lower-income immigrants, preventing or making it difficult for them to become citizens. ACRS immediately joined the coalition’s lawsuit to fight this act, which is the latest in a long line of anti-immigrant actions by this administration.”
Drive-thru COVID-19 testing reopening at ICHS ID Clinic Photo by Theo Bickel
SEATTLE – Asian Counseling and Referral Service (ACRS) announced on Aug. 21 that it had joined a coalition of eight of the nation’s leading immigrants’ rights organizations in filing a lawsuit against the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Chad Wolf, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), and Kenneth Cuccinelli over DHS’s new Fee Rule increasing application fees for immigration benefits, including citizenship and asylum. The coalition is seeking an emergency nationwide
Patients getting tested on March 24 at the International Community Health Service’s drive-thru COVID-19 testing at the International District Clinic.
International Community Health Services (ICHS) is reopening its COVID-19 drive-thru testing at the International District clinic on Aug. 28. Testing is open to all, but appointments are prioritized if you are currently experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or have had contact with anyone who is COVID-19 positive. If you need language assistance, call ICHS at (206) 788-3700 to make an appointment. For more information, go to ichs.com/drive-thru-covid-19-testing.
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AUGUST 29 – SEPTEMBER 4, 2020
38 YEARS
■ COMMUNITY CALENDAR AUG
Participants must be able to self record 206-778-6357 206-786-2763
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28 VIRTUAL EVENT: BLACK LIVES MATTER YESTERDAY, TODAY & TOMORROW, 57TH ANNIVERSARY 1963 MARCH ON WASHINGTON FOR JOBS AND FREEDOM 6:30-8:30 p.m.
29 VIRTUAL CELEBRATION TO PRESENT AWARDS AND PLAQUES TO ARTISTS AND SPONSORS, “CID COMMUNITY ART MURAL CONTEST” 2 p.m. facebook.com/ NorthwestAsianWeekly
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HOW HAVE YOUR PLANS CHANGED?
KING COUNTY, WASHINGTON NOTICE TO BIDDERS
Help local businesses...
Sealed bids will be received for C01445C20, PLUMBING-MECHANICAL WORK ORDER SERVICES; by the King County Procurement and Payables Section, via email, at procurement.submittals@kingcounty.gov, until 1:30 PM on 9/8/20. Late bids will not be accepted. The public bid opening will only be conducted via Skype or telephone following The Bid Due Date and Time. See Section 00020 for details regarding the public bid opening. There is a 5% minimum requirement for King County Certified Small Contractors and Suppliers (SCS) on this contract. Scope: Contractor to perform plumbing and mechanical repairs and installations on a work order basis. Not-To-Exceed contract price: $1,000,000 Pre-Bid: 9:00 a.m., 9/1/20, via Skype. Complete Invitation to Bid Documents, including all project details, specifications, and contact information are available on our web page at: https://procurement.kingcounty.gov/procurement_ovr/default.aspx
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View the solution on page 10
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The only weekly English-language newspaper serving Washington’s Asian community. The NW Asian Weekly has one simple goal: “To empower the Asian community.” The Editorial Board reserves the right to reject any advertisement, letter or article. Subscriptions cost $40 for 52 weeks of the NW Asian Weekly and $30 for 52 weeks of the Seattle Chinese Post. The NW Asian Weekly owns the copyright for all its content. All rights reserved. No part of this paper may be reprinted without permission. 412 Maynard Ave. S., Seattle, WA 98104 • t. 206.223.5559 editor@nwasianweekly.com • ads@nwasianweekly.com • www.nwasianweekly.com
YOUR VOICE
■ NATIONAL NEWS
AUGUST 29 – SEPTEMBER 4, 2020
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Andrew Yang’s full remarks at the 2020 Democratic National Convention on Aug. 20 Hello America! I’m Andrew Yang. You might know me as the guy who ran for President talking about MATH and the future. Unfortunately for all of us, that future is now. The pandemic has accelerated everything. If you’re like me and my wife, Evelyn, you don’t know if your child’s school is reopening this fall. 72% of Americans believe that this is the worst time
we have ever experienced. And 42% of the jobs that are now lost—millions of jobs— will never return. We are in a deep, dark hole, and we need leaders who will help dig us out. I know many politicians promise and then fail to deliver. I understand if you voted for Trump, or didn’t vote at all, back in 2016. Many of us have gotten tired of our leaders
seeming far removed from our everyday lives. We despair that our government will ever rise to the challenges of our time. But we must give this country a chance to recover—and recovery is only possible with a change of leadership and new ideas. Bold and innovative policies that will get help see YANG on 10
Andrew Yang
■ COMMUNITY NEWS
Hengda Dance Academy fundraiser
In late June, when fire destroyed the Eng Suey Sun Plaza, it also claimed the 23year location of the Hengda Dance Academy’s Seattle Studio. This was not only devastating news to long-time instructors, but also to many of the dancers and to the Chinese American community. Hengda has been featured in virtually all big local Chinese celebrations, and even mainstream celebrations such as the Seafair Torchlight Parade. The damage exceeded $40,000
and two dancers, Vanessa Lee and Anna Li, have created a fundraiser to replace the flooring, mirrors, and sound system for a future studio. Hengda had a virtual dance performance on Aug. 22 and as of press time, it has raised $22,000 of its $25,000 goal.
Vanessa Lee, fundraiser co-organizer
To support the Hengda Dance Academy, go to gofundme.com/f/ hengdance-fundraiser.
Anna Li, fundraiser co-organizer
WE HAVE THE POWER TO CHANGE OUR COMMUNITY. When we all count in the 2020 Census, we will help bring money and political representation to our community for the next 10 years. When we are not counted, our community loses funding and resources. Complete the 2020 Census. Do it for your family and neighbors. Do it, today.
Our census. Our power.
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asianweekly northwest
38 YEARS
AUGUST 29 – SEPTEMBER 4, 2020
■ PUBLISHER’S BLOG
Why Biden’s words at the DNC spoke to my heart
Photo from Kamala Harris’ Instagram
Photo by Adam Schultz / Biden for President
Biden and Harris believe stepmothers should be just “moms”
Harris (2nd from right) with husband Doug Emhoff and his children, Ella and Cole
Joe and Jill Biden
By Assunta Ng NORTHWEST ASIAN WEEKLY
age, it’s considered disrespectful and rude in Chinese culture to do so. Harris’ stepdaughter, niece, and sister introduced her at the DNC. The format was dynamic and moving. Harris’ stepdaughter is also campaigning for her. What a contrast to Trump’s competitive and adversarial relationships in his family! His niece, Mary Trump, published a tellall memoir in July, “Too Much and Never Enough: How My Family Created the World’s Most Dangerous Man.” It reveals
Would you be angry if your children address someone else as “Mom,” if you are their biological mother? Joe Biden’s words at the Democratic National Convention (DNC) gave parents and children something to reflect on. His running mate, Sen. Kamala Harris, can also share with you an important lesson on parenting her stepdaughters. How remarkable and aligned their views are despite their gender differences! That’s personal to me because my parents were divorced. In split custody, my brother was raised by his stepmom, and I had a stepfather and a younger step brother. What to call stepparents is tricky business. It has caused a lot of hostility among families. It created unnecessary pain for me as a child, and a rift between my mother and stepfather. Biden’s first wife, Neilia, and their daughter were killed in a car accident a month after he was elected as a U.S. Senator, representing Delaware. A widower with two sons, he married Jill. “Beau (his son) and I said, ‘We are done with stepmom,’” Biden said in a video. “Mommy died, Jill is our mom,” Biden said. The late Beau was only 8 years old at the time, and yet he was mature for his age. He wanted a mother, not a step below. “I took time off to establish myself as the boys’ mother,” said Jill. In any human relationship, it takes effort and patience to nurture it. It requires all family members to understand and speak to each other heart to heart. Those powerful words from the Biden family touched me profoundly. The word “step” implies not as important and secondary. It’s saying, “You can never be as good as my mother.” Or “I will never love you like my own mother.” The distinction between Mom and Mommy may not be obvious to some. But it does to children who are traumatized from death or divorce. Biden made it clear to his sons that Jill was not replacing their mommy, only as a second mother who would love them just like their mommy did. Calling Jill “mom” helped his sons to embrace Jill whole-heartedly as their mother. It brought them closer together as a family.
Biden told his sons, “Mommy had sent Jill to the family...Jill is a gift to the family.” Jill raised them as her kids. That conversation should be made between parents and children when one parent is not the biological parent of the children. It is wise to set the right tone at the beginning for all family members involved. I wish my mother and stepfather had done that with me from the start. How lost and broken I was from my parents’ constant fighting! Meanwhile, I felt my stepfather rejected me. Biden was 35 when he married Jill. Yet, he had the wisdom and vision to guide the transition for his sons and Jill. Look at how messy President Trump’s family is—his wife Melania and daughter Ivanka are rivals. So are Trump’s first wife Ivana and Melania. Trump had a bitter divorce from Ivana. Perhaps he enjoys the jealousy between his daughter and current wife so he’s always the center of attention, and in control of the two women.
Trump being a dangerous narcissist. Oh, Mary taped her conversation with her aunt, Maryanne Trump Barry, to show that it’s not just her, but also Trump’s sister who disapproved of his presidential record and behavior. Had he done a better job in leading this country and if his administration was not corrupt, his sister wouldn’t have criticized him harshly. Had he been treating his niece with decency see BLOG on next page
Weekly Specials
AUG 26-SEPT 1, 2020
Harris and her husband’s ex-wife
You can tolerate someone by putting a wall between you and him or her, meaning having as little interaction as possible. But for an ex-wife and the present wife to spend an important family meal together, year after year, could be too much for both women. According to a recent New York Times story, Harris and husband Doug Emhoff spend Thanksgiving with Kerstin, his ex-wife, and the whole family together. Wow! Harris doesn’t let insecurity get in the way! A woman for all seasons, she can exhibit grace for her family, but toughness in the political arena. Harris is sweet and open-minded to accept Kerstin. It’s a tremendous example for divorced families who couldn’t resolve their troubled past, and continued to bicker like my mother for decades with my father. It made life miserable for the children. What do Harris’ stepdaughters call her? Not her first name. “Momala,” they call her. It‘s a term of endearment and a special name to honor their second mother. The family shows nothing but respect and love for one another. Many Americans like to call their stepmom or dads by their first name. Unless they are close to their stepparents’
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YOUR VOICE
AUGUST 29 – SEPTEMBER 4, 2020
My dads and me
My mother, stepdad, my nephew and me in Hong Kong.
It would mean so much to me if I could hear directly from my stepfather, “You can call me dad. You are my daughter.” For a long time, I was confused as a child and teenager whether he thought of me as his daughter. My mother told me to call him “uncle.” One day, my stepfather complained to my mother, “Why does she still call me uncle?” It made sense that he raised the issue. After all, he was the one who felt compelled that I should change my last name to his. I delivered his letter requesting my school to do so without explaining why. In retrospect, it was comical because my teacher asked me quietly, “Did your father die?” I opened my mouth, but couldn’t utter a single word. In shame, I put my head down. But my teacher thought I was grief-stricken so she didn’t pursue it further. When did my late stepfather and I see each other as
northwest
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Reconciliation is an act of human triumph.
BLOG from previous page and fairness, those incidents would never happen.
On my dad’s 90th birthday in Hong Kong, I presented a cup of tea, a Chinese tradition to honor elder’s birthday, and a red envelope with lucky money.
asianweekly
father and daughter? After I left Hong Kong and came to the United States to attend college, he decided to visit me. It was snowing with freezing temperatures in Oregon. And he wore only a pair of leather shoes. When we said goodbye at the bus stop, I told him the buses were unreliable. He said he could wait. Within 10 minutes, I rushed back to the bus stop, doing the unthinkable. I stuck my thumb out to get a ride for him. It was the first time I had ever hitched a ride. He never expected I would do that for him. Neither did I. Decades ago, many parents were not equipped to communicate to their children about adults’ complex and messy relationships. Now, divorces are more common and more acceptable in society. We have the help of professional counselors. The worst is, they failed to heal their children who got caught in the middle of their conflict. My mother and I were embarrassed to utter the word “divorce.” What my mother should have said to me at the time but didn’t, “It wasn‘t your fault. We all love you.” But no, she made it sound like it was my fault that I didn’t request the school change my last name when I was only 12 or 13 years old. To distinguish between my two fathers, I called my biological dad “BA,” and my stepfather, “BAR,” by raising my pitch higher. It’s hard to tell the difference if you don’t listen carefully. My husband jokingly called my two dads as real and fake dad to distinguish the two. Finally, we figured it out, Ng Dad and Yeung Dad.
Both my dads, my mom, and my brother’s stepmom are deceased. I was glad our two families got along well for the past two decades, and gathered for celebrations. My brother called his stepmother “mom.” It infuriated my mother for years. She was deeply hurt. I think my brother didn’t have any choice in those days. This is personal among divorced families, especially for the women. Some parents want their children to hate their step parents. But what good does that do? Just think of it this way, your children are fortunate to be loved by two mothers or two fathers, instead of just one. It changed my brother’s life to be raised by a stepmother. Overnight, he became independent and resilient, and less rebellious. Most importantly, he thrived in a new environment among his step siblings. He knew failure was not an option. My mom finally realized his stepmother had done a good job in raising my brother, her own son. Whenever I returned to Hong Kong, my brother wanted me to visit his stepmother. I did, and I even gave her pocket money out of appreciation for raising my brother. Children will be better human beings if they see that their parents are capable of forgiveness, understanding, and love. Even though someone is divorced, the exhusband and ex-wife are still part of the family, especially if there are children involved. You can never cut those ties. It’s part of your children’s identity and history. You might as well work it out with your ex. It would make life so much easier for you and everyone! It’s worth it. Thank you, Joe and Kamala, for setting examples for many broken families to heal and work out their differences. For those of you who have awkward family dynamics, it’s time to organize a reunion meal with your ex, or for your step and biological parents. Reconciliation is an act of human triumph. Cheers! Assunta can be reached at assunta@nwasianweekly.com.
FEWER. SHORTER. SMALLER. SAFER. LIMIT INTERACTIONS. CONTROL COVID-19. coronavirus.wa.gov
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asianweekly northwest
38 YEARS
AUGUST 29 – SEPTEMBER 4, 2020
■ COMMUNITY NEWS
Chinatown-International District Community Mural Art Contest winners First place: Wing Luke Museum
The military gave him the discipline to keep painting. A professional artist and a former sign installer, he’s unemployed after an injury.
Third place: Jade Garden Restaurant
First place: Wing Luke Museum Moses Sun
Moses Sun, lead artist Seattle-based artist Moses Sun creates analog, digital, and mixed media art. Sun draws much of his inspiration from his southern upbringing, along with Black, African, Asian, and Latinx diasporas. He blends these influences into abstract meditative constellations of movement expressed on paper, wood, and large scale murals. Sun’s work has been shown in both solo and group shows in Toronto, New York, Los Angeles, and Seattle.
“The theme for the mural originally came from the staff at the Wing Luke Museum. The idea was to have a conversation with the community through the mural by asking the question, ‘Where do you stand?’ It became a rally point for all of us and allowed me as lead artist to incorporate ideas from all involved. I was moved by the whole process. Everyone was so welcoming and dedicated to making art that spoke to the people. When we completed the work, I felt humbled and gratitude to all involved.” — Moses Sun
Second place: Vital T Leaf Artist: David Teichner
What inspired his theme for Jade Garden Restaurant’s mural? He asked the owner what he served. “Noodles and dumplings,” the owner said. “So I just translated them into art,” said Carlos. It took him two full days to complete the mural. He hoped people would enjoy looking at his mural, and then buy food to support the restaurant.
HONORABLE MENTIONS: Most Colorful
Phnom Penh Noodle House Artist: Richard Reynolds
Artist: David Teichner
Originally from Los Angeles. Studied art in California and Italy. Moved to Seattle from the Bay Area in 2008. Actively focusing on art for positive political and social change, as a solo artist and with my crew, the MATH (making art that heals)
Artist: Richard Reynolds
Second place: Vital T Leaf
“It’s better to ask forgiveness than permission.”
I was born in Conway, Arkansas and have lived in Western Washington since 1996. As an artist, I have mostly worked in acrylics, egg tempera, and ink. I have recently begun work in digital art and look forward to exploring its capabilities and boundaries.
Third place: Jade Garden Restaurant Artist: Carlos Ruiz
Most Colorful
Best Multiracial Mural Artist: Carlos Ruiz
Carlos Ruiz has loved to draw since he was 5 years old. At the age of 19, he joined the military and continued to pursue his passion of drawing and painting. He won several painting awards from the military’s art contests, and also did artwork for U.C. Berkeley.
United States Postal Office Artist: Tracy Tran I’m a 24-year-old Vietnamese American born to Vietnamese immigrants. I grew up in Kent and I remember driving up to the International District with my family. I graduated from the University of Washington and see WINNERS on 12
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Photos by George Liu
YOUR VOICE
AUGUST 29 – SEPTEMBER 4, 2020
I-5 UNDERPASS PARK from 1 At this meeting, held online on Aug. 18, the committee and its team of designers and urban engineers, from SiteWorkshop, ZGF Architects, and others, brought forth, for the inspection of attendees, diagrams of the plans so far. The site, which is already occupied by the parking lot in the middle of King and Jackson, poses some challenges due to a heavy grade, especially on the Jackson side, and due to certain WSDOT restrictions such as needing to have maintenance access. With this in mind, the committee, along with community input from the surveys, has come up with what seemed a natural solution for each side of King and Jackson Streets. The parking lot in between will remain as is, but perhaps undergo some small improvements, such as decorative fencing and enhanced pedestrian crosswalks. “We wanted to make sure that it works within the context of this community, being a residential community, being a small business neighborhood, being in Chinatown, the International District, where it has three unique neighborhoods which includes not only Chinatown, but Little Saigon and Japantown,” said Im. “We wanted also to help to displace some of the criminal activities that happen in the area. We want to also activate the space. But we also want to understand that, although we want to make the space accommodating for our residents, businesses, our elders in our community, employees that work in the neighborhood, we also have to understand that it’s underneath the freeway.”
In particular, the committee has come up with plans for primarily recreational, or active, activities on the Jackson Street side, and artistic, or more relaxing, activities on King Street. SiteWorkshop and ZGF Architects helped meeting attendees understand the current vision, which is still only a draft, subject to change upon further input from the community. “Over on Jackson Street, it’s more of a louder transit corridor, a busier street and the space at Jackson is not at grade with the sidewalk,” elaborated Taj Hanson of ZGF. “It sits about eight feet over the top of the sidewalk, so it’s harder to reach, and this was a big reason that, as we worked with the community, there was a strong consensus that we needed a recreation destination here, something that would be an attraction and draw people into this hard-to-reach space. The King Street side is adjacent to the sidewalk. It’s a quieter street and it’s also part of a cultural corridor that’s evolving where you have the Chinatown gate, the Wing Luke Museum, [and] thinking about it as a gateway into Little Saigon. So, this side of the site was thought to be more about a passive art walk that people can enjoy as they walk under the underpass.” Recreational activities proposed for the Jackson Street side include basketball and skateboarding, as well as performances on a centrally located stage. On the King Street side, a dog park has been suggested for one end, while seating for those waiting in the Food Bank queue has been suggested for the other end; throughout will be opportunities for art that will take into account the makeup of
the neighborhood. “We’re thinking of King Street as more of a canvass for the pedestrian pass-through experience, creating flexible space that really highlights the neighborhood and cultural identities,” said Jon Pagan of SiteWorkshop. According to Pagan and others on the team, with additions such as murals and plants, the team hopes “we can find creative ways to express the site’s history, really being a connection to other cultural resources like the Wing Luke Museum.” Ways that this could be done include using bamboo to create semi-transparent walls, or incorporating archival photographs of businesses that existed in this spot before the freeway went through, such as Cherry Land Florist, Chinese Hand Laundry, and the Jackson Street Community Council. During the meeting, time was allotted for breakout sessions in which attendees and one team member were put into groups to brainstorm. Safety was a major concern in every conversation. Insightful tips were brought up about the bamboo— that it not be too thick in case ill-meaning people wanted to hide behind it—or about decorative rocks—that none of them be too small or detachable so as to invite ne’er-do-wells to collect them for harmful intent such as vandalism. Great attention was given by the breakout groups to the care of the elders in the community. Most attendees wanted to increase the amount of seating and ensure that there were safe, ADA accessible places to walk. Breakout participants also wanted to ensure that any additions were culturally sensitive. One attendee reminded everyone of the meaning
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behind the paintings on the columns in the parking lot—that they represent the story of the koi fish that eventually turns into a dragon—and asked that future renovations build upon this already existing cultural material. “The narrative…about perseverance in the community, the koi fish turning into a dragon…how can the pattern pull inspiration from the existing columns and speak to similar narratives in the community about perseverance?” Hanson restated the comments made by this group member and the idea that any new paving added could incorporate a related design. “The koi fish scales could be part of the pattern, transitioning into something related to the dragon.” Finally, everyone wondered who would be in charge of maintaining this improved space? The committee stressed the importance of forming close relationships with International District organizations, and the hope that eventually Seattle Parks would take over the space. To discuss this and more, the Steering Committee will be polling International District residents on the streets at the end of August and holding a second community meeting at the end of October. For more information or to provide feedback, contact I-5 Underpass Park Steering Committee member Lizzy Chong Baskerville at lbaskerville@interimcda.org. Kai can be reached at info@nwasianweekly.com
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AUGUST 29 – SEPTEMBER 4, 2020
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Northwest Asian Weekly is EMPLOYMENT accepting applications for freeCook and Prep person P/T and F/T. Wok experience. lance writers. Send resume and writing samples to: Ruth Bayang Located in S Everett. 425-218-6478. editor@nwasianweekly.com. King County Housing Authority’s Must speak English. Weatherization group is soliciting proposals from qualified firms to provide Weatherization & Repair Services. Selected firms will Subscribe to the Northwest Asian Weekly weatherize and/or repair the homes $40 for one year. of low-income owners and renters participating in the weatherization Name_______________________________ assistance program. Proposals are due at 1:00 pm PST, Friday, Octo- Address _____________________________ ber 2nd, 2020. A pre-bid meeting City ________________________________ will be held via Zoom on Friday, September 11th, 2020, at 11:00 am State____ PST. Attendance at the pre-bid Zip Code ____________________________ meeting is mandatory. Meeting Phone _______________________________ attendance information is available Mail to: NW Asian Weekly in the RFP. The RFP is available via e-mail or mail by contacting 412 Maynard Ave. S. Seattle, WA 98104 Carly Dykes at carlyd@kcha.org or or call 206-223-0623 (206) 574-1212. It is also available for download at https://www.kcha. org/business/weatherization. Any questions or requests for further information or clarification must be directed to Heather Eklund, in writing, at heathere@kcha.org and cc Carly Dykes at carlyd@kcha.org. Advertize in our Service Directory below All questions must be received Just $10 a week! Minimum: no later than Friday, September 18th at 3:30PM PST. Request for Proposals Weatherization and Repair Projects
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manufacturer that is in the works amid the new coronavirus outbreak. That gave her a chance to draw a distinction from the Trump administration—which some strategists have said could be helpful if Haley pursues the White House herself. In her speech, Haley said the country can “build on the progress of our past and unlock the promise of our future,” a future that will start “when the American people re-elect President Donald Trump.” While the DNC was entirely virtual due to the coronavirus pandemic, the four-night GOP event was held in part before live crowds in Charlotte, N.C. SOLUTION from SUDOKU on page 4.
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AUGUST 29 – SEPTEMBER 4, 2020
YOUR VOICE
■ ASTROLOGY
asianweekly northwest
11
Predictions and advice for the week of August 29–September 4, 2020 By Sun Lee Chang Rat—Even if you are invited in, there are still some boundaries that should be respected in order to maintain harmony.
Dragon—Be careful about what you offer, as you could be asked to assist with more than you initially intended.
Monkey—Practicality has been at the forefront recently, but do find a way to incorporate your creative side.
Ox—Do you want more help than you are letting on? Despite your reticence, it is available for the asking.
Snake—Before you get too carried away making detailed plans, slow down and wait for the results to come in.
Rooster—As you transition to a new routine, there could be a few hiccups. Instead of getting flustered, adjust accordingly.
Tiger—Don’t waste time trying to obscure what is really going on. There is no benefit in hiding the obvious.
Horse—As you make progress on your own terms, each successful step will embolden and strengthen you for the next one.
Dog—Add some spark to your day. Rather than doing the same old thing, change it up a bit.
Rabbit—A refreshing new approach has piqued your interest. Experiment with it, including making slight modifications, to suit your needs.
Goat—Shining a light will illuminate both the good and bad. It is to your advantage to get the whole picture.
Pig—Have you been approached for a leadership role? Despite the substantial commitment, it could be quite rewarding.
WHAT’S YOUR ANIMAL SIGN? RAT 1912, 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020 OX 1913, 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009 TIGER 1914, 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010 RABBIT 1915, 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011 DRAGON 1916, 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012 SNAKE 1917, 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013 HORSE 1918, 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014 GOAT 1919, 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015 MONKEY 1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016 ROOSTER 1921, 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017 DOG 1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018 PIG 1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019
*The year ends on the first new moon of the following year. For those born in January and February, please take care when determining your sign.
Seattle in 2020 seems a long way from those rudimentary images, but in Chinatown-International District (ID), the rock face is boards covering storefronts and the artists have access to more color and technology. While some murals simply depict what stores sell, others echo the social conversation in the city. The murals are a sign of solidarity—a community coming together to awaken, heal, and help. And it all began on King Street at Jade Garden. In March, Keoke Silvano was driving by the restaurant on King Street and noticed construction workers boarding up windows. Wondering if they were going out of business, he went over and spoke to Eric Chan, whose family owns and runs the restaurant. He found out the business had been vandalized and decided to board up to prevent further damage. “It was completely organic. I didn’t set out to start a movement,” said Silvano, who is Filipino. He shares that when he sees something, he is compelled to do something about it. “Boarded up businesses, homes, or warehouses make it seem like nobody is there, nobody cares for the neighborhood. I didn’t have a personal connection with the restaurant owners, but this is my neighborhood. I live in Chinatown,” he said. “My aim was to make sure Jade Garden kept going and people knew that it was open,” he added. A mural, Silvano felt, could do that. He put a callout on Facebook seeking volunteers to help protect Jade Garden and make it look aesthetically pleasing. “I was expecting to put more work on the request, but within 30 minutes, I had five volunteers. The artists were from the Latino community and really emphasized that our strength is in unity with other communities,” he said. “Especially with the work that Uncle Bob, Larry Gossett, Roberto Maestas, and Bernie Whitebear put into developing all our communities of color,” Silvano said. “It’s a reflection of what they envisioned our communities doing to support each other,” he said. The Jade Garden mural even pays homage to the Gang of Four. This instance soon gained momentum and Silvano is pleased.
Mike Hipple Photography
JADE GARDEN from 1
Vivian Mak painting her mural at Washington State Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine Center on King Street
Sophia Haddix and Lucy Htoo pose with their completed mural at Sun Bakery.
“The Jade Garden mural served its purpose and business picked up,” he said. Other restaurants on the same block— Tai Tung, Kau Kau, and Harbor City— benefitted, too. The owner of Kau Kau approached Silvano. “He was apprehensive about boarding up because customers might assume the business was closed,” he said. Turns out businesses are responsible for clearing out graffiti from their property. Otherwise, they can be fined by the city. However, the threat of fines did not deter Chan from celebrating the murals that sparked this movement. “It is a beautiful gesture of solidarity. It was touching how the community came together to support us,” he said. Chan hasn’t been fined yet, but expects to be next year. That said, he isn’t taking the murals down anytime soon. “We’re thinking about donating it to Wing Luke Museum,” he added. After the Jade Garden mural went up, more ID businesses decided to board up their windows after damage from violent protests. “Che Sehyun worked with the Seattle Art Museum and City of Seattle Arts Commission for financial support,” Silvano said. “He helped organize a lot of other artists and material for a lot of murals to go up,” he said. “Everybody pitched in. I got some paint, the artists got some material, and people came together and pitched in for supplies,” Silvano said. “We’d put out the time, place, and date, and people would come,” he added. A young artist, Vivian Mak, saw Sehyun’s post on Instagram asking for people to sign up to paint murals in the ID, and said why not. “I showed up there by myself to create my
first mural. There were so many artists and supplies. It was a unique experience with people from all walks of life and cultures —a true representation of Chinatown and Seattle,” Mak said. Mak’s mural adorns the storefront of the Washington State Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine Center on King Street. “It was inspired by my last sculpture—a ceramic mask. I was inspired by Blue Willow china. Just like how those traditional blue and white plates or tea sets tell a story through each symbol, I wanted to tell my own story. Each symbolic gesture encapsulates our moments of uncertainty and entangles it with resilience and hopefulness,” she said. “It was special because Chinatown is close to my childhood when we would go to temple. Having a little part of me inside, it is really nice. The whole process was also different from normal artwork, which is done in isolation. Here, people were passing by and wanted to know more about me and the art I was creating,” Mak said. She also mentions how the owners of Tai Tung kept her well fed with snacks and drinks and made sure she took breaks during the two days she was painting the mural. Sophia Haddix, a visual artist who painted the mural at Sun Bakery, also heard about the movement through Sehyun and came out to paint her first mural. She collaborated with her friend Lucy Htoo to do the mural. “We wanted to do something that represented the business. The owners said they wanted something sunny,” Haddix said. So, Htoo and she decided on a vision of the times. “We wanted to show that even though we are in this darkness, there still is light present. Even in the night, the sun and moon are still shining and we also wanted to make it fun and incorporate some food,”
she said. “I’m a part of Seattle and the ID is part of the community. To be able to stand in solidarity in support of this community and see what we can do to beautify and bring joy in these sombre times just felt right to me,” Haddix said. While she didn’t paint a whole mural outside the ID, Haddix went on to help other artists complete another mural in Pioneer Square. Silvano’s favorite mural is the one done at Tai Tung. “It pays homage to the history of Tai Tung and its connection to Bruce Lee, whose favorite restaurant it was. He is iconic in films and took a strong stance against colonialism through his films,” Silvano said. “The presence of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar with Lee calls to attention the Black Lives Matter movement. It illustrates the unity Lee believed in, the social justice work he was doing in the 1970s, and what that means for us today in contemporary times,” he said. Silvano remarks that Seattle today is one big art walk all the way from Chinatown through Little Saigon, and Japantown to Pioneer Square, Downtown Seattle, Belltown, and CHOP. Murals across town convey messages talking to different issues. “All these artists and creatives from different cultures who are going beyond the norm and expressing what these times mean to them when businesses are shutting down and people are losing jobs,” he said. “There is a lot of talent within the community and the murals give them an opportunity to channel their art and express themselves in a positive manner,” he added. What’s more important to him is what happens to these works of art 100 years from now? “If another quarantine breaks out in the future, we are going to be a point of reference. Just like we looked to the Spanish Flu pandemic,” Silvano said. “In 2020, we have the technology to preserve this art. Where do we go to record this? What happens to the art? This is for years to come, this is our answer to a crisis. We have to find a way to preserve it so people in the future can look to us for answers,” he said. Janice can be reached at info@nwasianweekly.com.
12
asianweekly northwest
38 YEARS
AUGUST 29 – SEPTEMBER 4, 2020 Most Creative
WINNERS from 8
Saeteun’s Garage Artist: Sandy
Best Unity Theme Artist: Tracy Tran
now work at Microsoft as a program manager. I strongly believe in the power of art to curate change, and I’m honored to be included amongst these amazing artists. I’m hopeful that my mural can serve as a call to action for my fellow Asian Americans and a resolution for myself to do better as an ally in the fight to dismantle racial injustice. I painted the mural the week after the Black Lives Matter movement really rejuvenated in Seattle. Like many others, I was trying to learn and listen, to reflect and donate and amplify. And I’m guessing like many other children of Asian immigrants, I was angry at the racist sentiments coming from the Asian community, and, if I’m being honest, frustrated at myself for having basically grown up with these sentiments but not having spoken up.
Most inspiring
Most Empowering
Woodburn Company Artist: Tori Kirihara
Artist: Tori Kirihara
Best Multiracial Mural
When I thought about what to paint I thought about my own childhood. My mother, even without great English, read me a book almost every single day. And I thought about Black boys, who are less likely have a parent who can dedicate time to read to them, who are less likely to have families who can afford books, and less likely to go to schools with funding for enrichment programs. And so, when all these other children get to be children, Black boys have this storm cloud over their head that the other children don’t even know about. And even if it hasn’t unleashed the storm upon them yet, it is growing increasingly heavy as they get older and become Black men. What I ended up painting was a call to action for my fellow Asian Americans, and a resolution for myself to do better as an ally. Let’s help Black children grow up in a world where they have the same potential and promise as other children.
Most Inspiring
United States Postal Office Artist: L.M. Freeman My name is Larsie Mae Freeman aka Freebird, and I am a self taught artist born in San Bernardino, California. I am passionate about continuing to grow as an artist and getting to know myself and others through what I create.
designer and Joseph is a web designer. Shara specializes in painting portraits and Joseph is a huge fan of Kareem and Bruce. Together, they love to eat and drink their way through Seattle and are now embarking on a new adventure of raising their newborn baby, Otis.
Artist: L.M. Freeman
Tori Kirihara is a Chinese and Japanese American artist. She is based in her hometown of Seattle. Her paintings consist of portraits that represent women, diversity, and pop culture. She uses her canvas as an outlet for emotions and feelings while reflecting on personal experiences and memories. Alongside her art, she founded The Feels in 2017. It has since been established as an LLC that continues to support and highlight the local artist community, as well as benefiting the youth through their organization Art Together. Beyond her art and community work, she continues to work on creative projects that are applicable to her Product Development degree from Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising in Los Angeles.
Artist: Sandy
As a fifth-generation Puget Sound-born artist, I come from a long line of rugged Northwest mountaineers, carpenters, fishermen, and artists. Through family, and my own exploration, I’ve become very familiar with the towns and neighborhoods that compose the city of Seattle. Through fellow students of King County schools, my neighbors in Shoreline, and countless others, I feel a strong connection to the people who choose to build their lives here. By being a participant in the last two decades of Puget Sound history, I have acquired a die-hard connection to the Cascade area and a steadfast dedication to preserving and promoting the beauty of this great place. Equipped with this drive, I approach muralism, craftsmanship, and outdoorsmanship in a manner that is respectful and informed of Northwest history. I aspire to match the hard work of those who built the Puget Sound area to what it is today and, in turn, create a positive and lasting impact on the community.
Patrick Nguyen aka Dozfy The Dozfy style stems from extensive study of art techniques and history. At the University of Texas in Austin, I trained in portrait painting focusing on academic figures and war generals. The major milestone occurred when I met my mentor, the famous Black artist Michael Ray Charles. He taught me the emotional power of art. At the same time, he educated me how to address historical elements. The “white on black” style was created during my time in California, where I studied Ansel Adams’ landscape photographs. The goal was to capture the powerful stillness of Ansel’s black and white photos. The solution was to adopt my Asian spirituality to hone my focus of being “present.” After many hours underneath my belt, I was able to create every brush mark with pure instinct to capture the essence of my subjects. This style became the voice of Dozfy.
Most Interesting
Pho Bac Artist: Patrick Nguyen aka Dozfy
Most Creative
Best Unity Theme
Tai Tung Restaurant Artists: Joseph and Shara Lee, and Patrick Nguyen aka Dozfy
Patrick Nguyen
Most Empowering
“I really wanted to do something that would show unity between the Japanese and Black culture. With everything going on. it is so important to be vocal about where you stand and letting others know where your support lies. I thought the quote was very fitting for this mural as well.” — Tori Kirihara
Most Interesting
Shara and Joseph Lee are a wife and husband team. By day, Shara is a furniture