VOL 34 NO 9 | FEBRUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 27, 2015

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VOL 34 NO 9

FEBRUARY 21 – FEBRUARY 27, 2015

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33 YEARS YOUR VOICE

Happy Lunar New Year!

Celebrating the Year of the Goat Lions and lettuce at the Wing / 9

A celebration of Lunar foods / 12 ■

Front cover by Peggy Chapman/NWAW

Year of the Goat celebrities / 11

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asianweekly northwest

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FEBRUARY 21 – FEBRUARY 27, 2015

■ names in the news Sugiyama retires; Nakano is new EDI Executive Director Executive Development Institute (EDI) announced that its Board of Directors appointed Marci Nakano as EDI’s Executive Director. EDI is a nonMarci Nakano Alan Sugiyama profit organization that focuses on leadership training for multiethnic professionals.

Nakano will transition to Executive Director on March 1, 2015. EDI’s current Executive Director, Alan Sugiyama, is retiring on February 28, 2015 for health reasons and will remain connected to EDI as Executive Director Emeritus. He is being treated for cancer.

In this new role, he will mentor and transition Nakano to her new role and continue to represent EDI in the community. 

Jean Lee has spirit!

The Parks and Recreation Department of Seattle is presenting the John C. Little Spirit Award Thursday evening to Jean Lee, Activity Supervisor at the Jefferson Community Center.

This is an annual award to the employee who demonstrates high Jean Lee degree of commitment and leadership to the youth of our community, the fourteenth time this award has been given. 

Shuko Hara celebrates 100 years

Premiere party for “Fresh Off the Boat”

viewing parties in the future. 

OCA New Year celebration and awards

Matsukawa awarded The UW Department of Communication announced that Lori Matsukawa is a 2015 Distinguished Alumna.

Each distinguished alumnus is part of the Department’s Alumni Hall of Fame on the basis of making significant contributions to the field and society. Matsukawa will give the keynote speech to graduating students at the departLori Matsukawa ment’s graduation celebration on June 11, 2015.

Matsukawa is an award-winning journalist and anchor (KING 5 News, KONG TV). She was given the “Lifetime Achievement Award” from the Asian American Journalists Association for mentoring aspiring journalists. Matsukawa co-chairs a committee seeking to build a Japanese cultural and community center in Seattle. 

Shuko Hara

King County Assessor Lloyd Hara’s mother, Shuko Hara, a former Seattleite, celebrated her 100th birthday on Jan 31. She cheered for her beloved Seahawks on the recent Super Bowl Sunday. She now lives in Delaware near Lloyd’s sister, Mitzi. 

Everyone’s on the boat!

Taiwanese Association of Professionals – Seattle Chapter had a viewing party for the new Asian American TV series Fresh off the Boat on Feb. 10. The show currently airs on Tuesday ABC 8PM to 9PM. TAPs expects to have more

OCA award recipients: Paul Tashima represents Japanese Americans Citizens League, Dorothy Cordova and the late Fred Cordova, Michael Chow represents Katty Chow, Al Sugiyama and Assunta Ng.

The OCA-Greater Seattle chapter held its Lunar New Year celebration and awarded its 2015 Golden Circle Awards February 7 at Joy Palace Restarant. The award recipients were Fred Cordova, Katty Chow, Dorothy Cordova, Assunta Ng, Alan Sugiyama, and the Japanese American Citizens League.

OCA is not-for-profit, non-partisan organization representing over 10,000 people nationally, including affiliates, college affiliates, young OCA, OCA young professionals, and general membership. 

33 YEARS YOUR VOICE

■ sports

FEBRUARY 21 – FEBRUARY 27, 2015

3

Lakers’ Clarkson overshadows Lin in game against Blazers Despite cancellation of Asian Heritage Night, fans get a treat

Jordan Clarkson

Photo by Jason Cruz/NWAW

Jeremy Lin and the Los Angeles Lakers visited the Portland TrailBlazers on Wednesday, February 11th, the last night before the NBA teams headed into the All-Star Break when the league takes a week off in preparation for the second half of the season. Lin has tailed off since being with the Lakers but the emergence of rookie Jordan Clarkson may spark some interest in an otherwise dismal season for the team. Clarkson, who is half-Filipino may be the new Asian American NBA player to follow.

As Lin was visiting the Portland area and a week before Chinese New Year, the Blazers promoted the night as “Asian Heritage Night.” It was the third annual night put on by the team. There have been similar nights in other NBA cities. Most have been done around Lin’s visit to its city. Notably, the Linsanity craze started three years ago this February. Groups were invited to come to the game with the opportunity to see Lin and the Lakers. At the end of the game, any ticketholder purchasing a ticket through the “Asian Heritage Night” promotion could come onto the court and shoot a free throw and take pictures.

Also, a portion of each ticket sold through the promotion would go back to support API Forward. The organization is an education foundation that supports the advancement of Asian and Pacific Islanders in Oregon and Southwest Washington. According to the Blazers’ web site, the organization’s mission is to develop through education and professional development, civically-engaged and sociallyresponsible API leaders and professionals. Per a Facebook message, an individual with API Forward indicated that she knew of 11 individuals that attended the event through the promotion.

Courtesy Los Angeles Lakers

By Jason Cruz Northwest Asian Weekly

Jeremy Lin

Prior to last Wednesday, the Blazers called off Asian Heritage Night due to lack of interest. According to a Blazers’ spokesperson, all persons that purchased a ticket through the promotion were honored. This included allowing the ticketholders the opportunity to go down to the court and take pictures as originally scheduled.

While the promotion was done in conjunction with Lin’s visit, Linsanity has fallen off since his dramatic rise. In his standard pre-game interview with the press, Lakers coach Byron Scott stressed the need for Lin to be a more consistent player. Lin, who now comes off the bench for the Lakers as its back-up point guard, has seen minutes and points per game decline this season. The Lakers are a team without its leader, Kobe Bryant, whose season ended earlier this year due to injury.

As witnessed by the Lakers play on the court, the team makes many mistakes on the offense and defensive ends which resulted in a loss by nearly 20 points to the Blazers.

While the Blazers are one of the top teams in the NBA, the Lakers ended the first half of the NBA season at 13 wins and 40 losses which makes them one of the worst teams in {see SPORTS cont’d on page 17}

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FEBRUARY 21 – FEBRUARY 27, 2015

■ pictorial

Celebrating Pakistan

Pakistani dancers

T

he host nation for the 17th annual Asia Pacific New Year Celebration at the Tacoma Dome was Pakistan. There was a presentation of the Pakistan national anthem, and a feature cultural show. The Stage Mistress of Ceremony was Cheryl Lee of the University of Washington.

Festivities included a variety of performances from schools and societies from many countries including Japan, China, Taiwan, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Korea. There was a martial arts demonstration stage and a wide variety of vendor booths (over 77)! 

Barbara Madsen and Darlene Dihel

Jade Choe Chinese Christian Church

Patsy Surh O’Connell, President/Founder; Hamid Asghar Khan, Consul General of Pakistan; S Asif Nasar, President Pakistan Association; Ali Sajjad Taj, City Councilmember, Artesia, CA

Photos by George Liu/NWAW

Asia Pacific Cultural Center

33 YEARS YOUR VOICE

■ education

FEBRUARY 21 – FEBRUARY 27, 2015

5

First class

“Diversity makes a difference” scholarship nominees

Ace Wilson

Aden Bahta

Compiled by Peggy Chapman Northwest Asian Weekly Each year, the Northwest Asian Weekly Foundation offers scholarships for extraordinary students who contribute and play a part in promoting diversity in our community. Here is a sampling of a few of our many exceptional nominations: Ace Wilson, NOVA High School “Ace’s compassion and commitment to building community amongst people of all genders, sexualities, class backgrounds, races, and abilities may come from their own intersectional experiences: they are a young person who identifies as mixed-race Black, queer, low-income, and gender non-conforming (Ace prefers to use ‘they/them/ theirs’ pronouns, rather than ‘she/her/hers’ or ‘he/him/his’).

Ace has had to traverse the barriers of racism, classism, transphobia, and heterosexism, and is devoted to addressing these inequities.”

Aden Bahta, Foster High School “Aden is a cultural leader. For many years, she has performed around the Seattle area with her Eritrean Dance Group. This year she co-founded the return of the Black Student Union Club, bringing African and African American students together. In her early years at Foster, she attended the Environmental Club to earn community service hours and explored the Youth Ventures program to discuss religious suppression around the world. She loves to sing her church choir. Her involvement in the ‘Making Connections’ program at the University of Washington helped her plan for her future college and career goals in the field of nursing.

However, Aden’s favorite activity has been volunteering at hospitals where she can assist others in need.”

June Uiki, Auburn Riverside High School “June is devoted to the Leadership Program and has been

June Uiki

Ibrahim Perry

Kathreen Kumar

Naomi Sanyika Moore

committed to promoting an inclusive atmosphere where all students are valued in the ARHS community. Currently ASB Vice President, June has also served as a Raven Crew Leader, helping support 9th graders in their transition to high school, and as facilitator for ‘Breaking-Down the Walls’ event.

Playing a significant role in fundraising for a senior battling Leukemia the past two years, she also has assisted with drives for the Food Bank through Key Club.

Proud of her Samoan heritage, her family is close and stays connected to extended family where cultural traditions are central to their gatherings. She has been instrumental in coordinating our Multicultural Fair the past two years, which has included booths with students representing various cultures with food samples and items to display from their respective countries. June and other Samoan friends were featured performers at the ARHS Multicultural Fair with their Polynesian dances.”

welcoming manner. The group is influential in helping to establish a positive climate in this school with posters and various campaigns. Also active in Jesus Club, Kathreen is a loyal friend to many and highly respected by students and staff alike. Reaching out to other students, respecting and appreciating differences, and focusing on what unifies ARHS is key for Kathreen.

Proud of her heritage, Kathreen’s parents were raised in Fiji Island and are of East Indian descent. Her training and experience is in Bollywood dancing, which is part of her culture. She and a group of friends were featured performers at the ARHS Multicultural Fair for the past two years. She enjoys preparing ethnic foods and also served in the Indian booth at the fair. She is conscientious, compassionate, and someone in which her friends can rely. Her servant heart is apparent when working with her, and an example of the concern she displays for others is evident is her dedication to tutoring elementary students.”

Ibrahim Perry, NOVA High School “Being of Filipino and Cham heritage, Ibrahim has done an incredibly extensive amount of research and studying of his peoples’ histories. He is a dedicated scholar of Southeast Asian history with extensive knowledge of Cham and Filipino culture, history, and linguistics, and Islamic and East Asian history that rivals that of anyone teaching at a college level. College professors around the world seek him out as one of the few living authorities on Cham culture and the written and spoken language. He is fluent in Cham and English, and proficient in Vietnamese and Kalinga. He is himself a living embodiment of diversity in his multilingual, multi-ethnic family heritage, and he has passion for world history, current events and social justice activism.”

Naomi Sanyika Moore, Mercer Island High School ‘In December 2014, Naomi participated in the Black Lives Matter march in Seattle and was inspired to write an article for her school paper, entitled “Ferguson: A Call for Understanding.” On February 28, 2014, she will lead an open discussion about race and social justice at the Mercer Island library to explore the issues exposed by events in Ferguson and elsewhere. In March, Naomi and other teens are facilitating a screening and discussion of the film Fixing Juvie Justice, which documents the use of restorative justice principles in juvenile justice systems.

She is working with school counselors to find ways to incorporate more American ethnic studies into the Mercer Island High School history curriculum. Naomi leads Principal Vicki Puckett’s new Diversity Board, following nomination by several teachers. She and another student

Kathreen Kumar, Auburn Riverside High School “Elected as both President and Vice President of the Ibaako for two years, Kathreen represents this club in a

Happy Lunar New Year, from my family to yours. May the Year of the Goat be a year of kindness, justice, prosperity, and health for all in the Asian American community.

— Congressman Adam Smith Democrat, 9th District

{see DIVERSITY cont’d on page 17}

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FEBRUARY 21 – FEBRUARY 27, 2015

■ WORLD NEWS

How cases involving 2 NYC cops and 2 unarmed men measure up

By Colleen Long and Tom Hays Associated Press

NEW YORK (AP) — The indictment of New York Police Department Officer Peter Liang Wednesday on charges of manslaughter and criminally negligent homicide in the stairwell shooting of Akai Gurley comes two months after a grand jury declined to charge Officer Daniel Pantaleo in the chokehold death of Eric Garner. Both were unarmed black men who died at the hands of police, and the officers became the subject of criminal investigations.

“But the similarities stop there,” criminal law professor James Cohen said. Garner’s death touched off massive protests and calls for police reform. The encounter was captured on video and widely viewed online. The officer testified before the grand jury.

Gurley’s death occurred during a chance encounter on a

pitch black stairwell in a Brooklyn housing project. Liang fired a single shot and his finger never should have been on the trigger, prosecutors said, but no one believes he intentionally wanted to kill Gurley. Liang didn’t testify in his defense.

Here’s a look at the two cases:

THE CIRCUMSTANCES: Akai Gurley, 28, was having his hair braided by his girlfriend at her apartment in the Louis Pink Houses in Brooklyn on Nov. 20. He had just given up waiting for the elevator so he could leave when he stepped into a darkened stairwell to walk to the lobby. Meanwhile, Officer Peter Liang and his partner were patrolling the stairwells of the public housing complex. Liang, 27, had his gun drawn, his finger on the trigger, prosecutors said. As he pushed open the door with his shoulder, he fired one shot that

ricocheted, striking Gurley on the floor above. Gurley made it down two flights before collapsing and later died.

Liang is Chinese American. His lawyer says the shooting was an accident.

Eric Garner, 43, was standing outside a Staten Island convenience store and was suspected of selling loose cigarettes on July 17. Officer Daniel Pantaleo and others accused tried to arrest him but he resisted. In an incident captured on video and widely viewed, the officer tries to take the heavyset Garner down, wrapping an arm around his neck. He cried “I can’t breathe,” lost consciousness and later died. The officer said he was using a legal takedown maneuver but critics said it was a chokehold, banned under NYPD policy. Pantaleo is white. {see NYC COPS cont’d on page 18}

Jackie Chan’s son Immigration reform is apologizes after release not easy Texas delays executive order from jail AP Wire Service

BEIJING (AP) — The son of actor Jackie Chan apologized to the public Saturday and asked for a second chance following his release from a six-month jail sentence for allowing people to use marijuana in his apartment.

Jaycee Chan, 32, said at a news conference that he was rededicating himself to his family and entertainment business career. He said he had “no reason, no excuse” for the behavior that led to his arrest in August alongside Taiwanese actor Ko Kai and others.

“After this correction by the justice system, I have changed my outlook on life and my values,” Chan said.

Chan and Ko tested positive for marijuana, and police seized more than 100 grams (3.5 ounces) of the drug from his Beijing apartment. He could have been sentenced to up to three years, but was shown leniency by the court for having come clean with his law breaking.

Chan’s news conference was broadcast live on Chinese state broadcaster CCTV, illustrating the propaganda value Beijing hopes to gain from the high-profile case amid a sweeping anti-drugs crackdown.

Over the first half of last year, Beijing saw a 53-percent rise in drug investigations in the city to more than 1,800 cases. More than 8,400 suspects have been detained during that time, an increase of 79 percent

over the same period last year.

Chan, whose mother is former Taiwanese actress Lin Feng-jiao, was raised in Los Angeles and has appeared in about 20 films, most of them low-budget Hong Kong and mainland Chinese productions.

Jackie Chan has publicly apologized for his son’s drug use and pledged to work with him on his recovery. The incident was sensitive for him because of his status as a Chinese anti-drugs ambassador and deputy to the national legislature’s main consultative body.

Jaycee Chan said his father did not intervene on his behalf and that he received no special treatment in prison, where conditions were “quite harsh.”

Speaking slowly in a quiet voice, he said he’d first encountered marijuana eight years earlier on a trip to the Netherlands, but only became a regular user about two years ago.

“I’m very ashamed that I haven’t been a good role model,” Chan said. “I want to start again, but I know that it’s the mass media that will decide.”

Chan’s arrest put his entertainment career in jeopardy, with several Chinese management companies saying they would refuse to employ celebrities caught using drugs. While professing his love for show business, Chan said he was now focused on spending time with his parents over next week’s Lunar New Year holiday. 

By Minal Singh Northwest Asian Weekly

Immigration reform is delayed while Texas prepares to battle the executive order against federal courts.

On Nov. 20, President Obama announced an executive action on immigration reform. On Feb. 15, in the case of Texas vs the United States, a Texas District Court obtained a temporary injunction to halt further progress on the President’s immigration reform.

This means that the applications for the revised Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) will not be available this week as expected. The Deferred Action for Parents of Americans and Lawful Permanent Residents (DAPA) program

may be affected as well.

“Department of Homeland Security will not start accepting applications tomorrow.

They are not setting a date for when those applications will be available,” said Cecilia Muñoz, Director of the White House Domestic Policy Council in a Feb. 17 press briefing.

This news has raised a response of protest among communities who care about pathways to citizenship.

The Japanese American Citizens League (JACL), the largest and oldest Asian American civil rights organization in the nation, expresses disappointment with the recent ruling in Texas, et al v. United {see IMMIGRATION REFORM cont’d on page 19}

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33 YEARS YOUR VOICE

■ LUNAR NEW YEAR

Bellevue will be celebrating the new year!

FEBRUARY 21 – FEBRUARY 27, 2015

7

Did you know?

Wool, dairy, and even placenta: Facts about sheep

Photo by George Liu/NWAW

The Bellevue Collection’s Third Annual Lunar New Year Festival

2014 Lunar New Year Festival

Celebrate the Year of the Ram at the Bellevue Collection’s Third Annual Lunar New Year festival. This year, the familyfriendly excitement includes nearly forty different performances including lion dancing, tai chi, traditional Chinese music, wushu (or kung fu), mask dancing, peacock dancing, and Chinese opera, and many others. For good luck, dim sum purveyor, Din Tai Fung, will offer sample dumplings to the audience. In honor of the event, kites and lanterns will adorn the mall, while stores will decorate their windows.

“We really wanted to engage the community, and connect, and understand all the different nationalities that celebrate … the Lunar New Year,” says Jennifer

Mongolia lamb feast

Leavitt Vice President of Marketing for the Bellevue Collection. After all, the Lunar New Year is not only celebrated in China, but in Viet Nam and other Asian countries as well. “It’s been a great experience for us to grow and learn with the community and celebrate the diversity here in Bellevue.”

Leavitt says that one of her favorite performances is the lion dance. “I love how surprised people are when they see it, especially the kids’ faces. Especially around the center court, especially when the [lions’] eyelashes open and close.” Traditionally, the lion dance was performed to chase away bad luck. Today, the performers are playful and {see BELLEVUE cont’d on page 16}

■ community news

Hindus concerned after two US incidents in 10 days

Grafitti on temple

Hindus nationwide are concerned after two incidents—roughing-up of a Hindu grandfather by police in Madison (Alabama) on February six resulting in partial paralysis and then scrawling of “GET OUT” on Bothell (Washington) Hindu Temple wall discovered on February 15—happened in a span of ten days.

Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, in a statement in Nevada today, said that it was shocking for the hard-working, harmonious and peaceful Hindu community, who had made lot of contributions to the nation and society, to receive such signals of hatred and anger.

Zed, who is President of Universal Society of Hinduism, pointed out that per a Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life survey, as compared to any other religious group in US, Hindus topped in education, had second highest income levels, topped in marriage rates and had lowest divorce rates. Per another Pew Forum survey, the United States

was the world’s second-leading destination for Hindu migrants, after India. There are about three million Hindus in the U.S. Rajan Zed noted that this was basically because of Hindus continuing with the “traditional values of hard work, stress on education, sanctity of marriage, in the U.S. amidst so many distractions”.

Zed suggested that basics of major world religions should be taught in high schools of the country and first responders should be imparted cultural competency training so that we understood each other better in view of increasing diversity of the country. Zed urged fellow Hindus to educate Americans about Hinduism, the oldest and third largest religion of the world with about one billion adherents, and try to remove any misconceptions about it.

Rajan Zed indicated that visitors were {see GRAFFITI cont’d on page 16}

Compiled by Staff Northwest Asian Weekly Meat Sheep are multi-purpose animals, raised for their meat, milk, wool, hides, and skins.

The most important product we get from sheep is meat. Meat is an important component of our diets, and lamb and mutton supply us with many of the vital vitamins and proteins we need for healthy living. Lamb is the meat (flesh) from a sheep that is less than one year old. Mutton is the meat from a sheep that is over one year of age. The terms yearling mutton are applied to the meat from a sheep that is between one and two years of age.

Sheep Placenta All of us know at least one woman who seems to age absolutely gracefully, with no signs of wrinkles and little outward aging.

You know she has a secret, and chances are, she’s probably using products containing sheep placenta.

The ingredients that make sheep placenta such a celebrated beauty booster work not only because of the quantity and quality of nutrients they offer, but also thanks to the presence of stem cells, which help promote the regeneration of cells in the body, leading to rejuvenated, healthy skin as well as healthier hair. {see FACTS cont’d on page 15}

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FEBRUARY 21 – FEBRUARY 27, 2015

■ COMMUNITY CALENDAR THU 2/19 WHAT: Art & Agriculture event featuring Philip Lee WHERE: The Well, Queen Anne WHEN: 6:30 p.m.

TICKETS: artnag.bpt.me

FRI 2/20 WHAT: Koto Jazz performance WHERE: Stage Seven Piano, 511 6th St. S., Kirkland WHEN: 7:45 p.m.

INFO: kotojazz.com/events

SAT 2/21 WHAT: Lunar New Year Festival, kids’ parade/costume contest, and $2 food walk WHERE: ChinatownInternational District WHEN: 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

INFO: cidbia.org WHAT: Lunar New Year presented by The Bellevue Collection WHERE: Bellevue Square, N.E 4th and N.E. 10th, Bellevue WHEN: 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

INFO: bellevuecollection.com/ lunarnewyear WHAT: Councilmember Larry Gossett’s Campaign Kickoff and Birthday Party!

WHERE: Mt. Zion Baptist Church, 1634 19th St., Seattle WHEN: 6-9 p.m.

RSVP: Katherine@ katherinebobman.com, 206-4865913 WHAT: AAJA’s Lunar New Year banquet and silent auction WHERE: China Harbor

Restaurant WHEN: 7 p.m.

TICKETS: lunarnewyear2015. brownpapertickets.com WHAT: Newport Covenant Church presents “East Meets West” Concert WHERE: Newport Covenant Church, 12800 S.E. Coal Creek Parkway, Bellevue WHEN: 7 p.m.

COST: Free admission INFO: uschinamusic.org, 206762-8899

SUN 2/22 WHAT: Building Up Our Community One Pancake at a Time WHERE: Kawabe Memorial House, 221 18th Ave. S., Seattle WHEN: 8 a.m.-1 p.m.

TICKETS: $10/person, 206721-3630 INFO: kinon.org

WED 2/25 WHAT: China Shenzhen Symphony, featuring legendary pianist Yin Chengzong and pipa virtuoso Zhao Cong WHERE: Benaroya Hall, Seattle WHEN: 7:30 p.m.

COST: $20-$40 TICKETS: 206-215-4747 INFO: ChineseCultureFestival. org

THU 2/26 WHAT: Asian Pacific American Legislative Day WHERE: State Capitol, Olympia WHEN: 10:30 a.m.

INFO: apicwa@gmail.com, 206695-7582

THRU 2/28 WHAT: Lunar New Year Celebration WHERE: Southcenter Mall WHEN: 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

INFO: westfield.com/ Southcenter

■ NATIONAL NEWS

Hand-drawn ‘Princess’ stands apart from other Oscar nominees

By Yuri Kageyama Associated Press

SUN 3/1 WHAT: Seattle Lee Family Association is celebrating the Year of Ram WHERE: House of Hong Restaurant, 409 8th Ave. S., Seattle WHEN: 6 p.m.

COST: $25/person, $250/table of 10, $12.50/children under 12 INFO: sleewoo@yahoo.com

FRI 3/6 WHAT: Chinese Reconciliation Project Foundation’s annual dinner WHERE: Bates Technical College, 1101 S. Yakima Ave., Yakima WHEN: 5:30-9 p.m.

COST: $60/person TICKETS: tacomachinesepark. org/annual-crpf-dinner-auction

SAT 3/14 WHAT: A night at the market WHERE: Garfield Community Center, 2323 E. Cherry St., Seattle WHEN: 5-7 p.m.

INFO: marketshare.ticketleap. com/anightatthemarket

TOKYO (AP) —The princess laughs and floats in sumiebrush sketches of faint pastel, a lush landscape that animated Director Isao Takahata film director Isao Takahata has painstakingly depicted to relay his gentle message of faith in this world.

But his Oscar-nominated work stands as a stylistic challenge to Hollywood’s computer-graphics cartoons, where 3D and other digital finesse dominate. Takahata says those terms with a little sarcastic cough.

The 79-year-old co-founder of Japan’s prestigious animator, Studio Ghibli, instead stuck to a handdrawn look.

Edo-era woodblock-print artists like Hokusai understood Westernstyle perspective and the use of light, but they purposely chose to depict reality with lines, and in a flat way,

with minimal shading, and that is at the heart of Japanese “manga,” or comics, said Takahata.

“We want to fuse the styles, the Japanese and the Western. To express things with a stroke of a line is Japanese tradition, but we do it with a proper understanding of dimension, he told The Associated Press at the picturesque Ghibli offices in suburban Tokyo.

“It is about the essence that’s behind the drawing,” he said. “We want to express reality without an overly realistic depiction, and that’s about appealing to the human imagination.”

“The Tale of The Princess Kaguya” is based on a Japanese folktale about an aging woodcutter and his wife, who find a girl in a bamboo stalk glowing in the dark. She grows up to be a beautiful princess, courted by rich samurai, mostly fakes, perverts and liars.

It’s a coming-of-age story, almost feminist in its tone. Princess Kaguya stands firm against the male advances.

It has a supernatural twist, an ending that’s part of the original. She turns out to be an extraterrestrial and returns to the moon, a symbol of death, in a canopy floating on clouds, surrounded by angels.

“All those are correct interpretations,” Takahata says happily, a little professorial, when asked about the meanings behind his work.

Takahata has a soft spot for feminist {see TAKAHATA cont’d on page 15}

KING COUNTY INVITATION TO BID ADVERTISEMENT Project: Cedar Hills Regional Landfill Area Stage 7 Stage 2 Closure and South Solid Waste Area Excavation, C00958C15 Sealed Bid Time/Date: 1:30 p.m., March 26, 2015 Location Due: King County Procurement & Contract Services Section, Contracts Counter, 3rd Floor, 401 Fifth Avenue, Seattle, WA 98104 Engineer’s Estimate: $11 million.

Scope of Work: The construction project consists of two integrated sites adjacent to one another at the Cedar Hills Regional Landfill.

They will be managed under two schedules within the contract. Schedule A - Area 7 stage 2 closure major items of work include; grading 7.2 acres of slope face, placing 3.1 acres of GCL liner with a soil cover, 4.1 acres of LDPE liner, HDPE gas collection lines and drainage facilities. Schedule B - South Solid Waste Area excavation major items of work includes – excavation of 700,000 CY of refuse and soil as measured in place (material will be disposed of onsite), demolition of 1200 feet of 30 foot wide asphalt road along with fiber optic and water utility pipelines, and construction of 4000 feet of 30 foot wide asphalt road and construction of fiber optic and water 8 inch water utilities.

Work site: Cedar Hills Regional Landfill, Maple Valley, Washington.

Contact Information: Tina Davis, 206-2632939, TTY Relay: 711, Fax: 206-296-7675, or tina.davis@kingcounty.gov. A bidder may be asked to put a question in writing. No verbal answers by any County personnel or its agents and consultants will be binding on the County.

MANDATORY Pre-Bid / Site Tour: February 25, 2015 at 9:00 a.m. and March 4, 2015 at 9:00 a.m., Cedar Hills Regional Landfill, Maple Valley, Washington. A site tour will be conducted immediately following the conference. Hardhats and safety vest are recommended for site tour. FAILURE TO ATTEND ONE OF THE MANDATORY MEETINGS AND SITE TOUR WILL RESULT IN A NON-RESPONSIVE BID DETERMINATION. A sign in sheet will provide evidence of attendance. It is your responsibility to ensure your sign in and out.

Subcontracting Opportunities: Earthwork, HDPE Welded Pipeline, LDPE 60 mil Liner Placement, Asphalt Paving, Traffic Control, Erosion/Sediment Control, Fiber Optic, and Electrical Cable.

Apprenticeship Requirements: 10% minimum Apprentice Utilization Requirement.

SCS Utilization Requirements. 5% minimum requirement for King County Certified Small Contractors and Suppliers (SCS).

Bid Bond: Not less than five percent (5%) of

the Total Bid Price.

Bid Documents Electronic copies of the plans, specifications, reference documents, and any addenda for this solicitation are available on the King County Procurement website shown below. Printed documents may also be ordered by contacting United Reprographics at 206-382-1177. Copies of documents are not available for purchase from King County, but are available for review 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. M thru F. at the Contracts Counter: Chinook Bldg, 3rd Floor, 401 Fifth Avenue Seattle, WA 98104.

To receive email notifications of addenda or other important information concerning this solicitation, you must register to be a planholder under the “Solicitations” tab at the following internet link: Website: http://www.kingcounty.gov/ procurement/solicitations This information is available in alternate formats for individuals with disabilities upon advance request by calling 206-263-9400, TTY Relay: 711.

Notes: Bids received after Sealed Bid Time will not be considered. Bidders accept all risks of late delivery, regardless of fault. King County is not responsible for any costs incurred in response to this Invitation to Bid.

33 YEARS YOUR VOICE

■ community news

Lions and lettuce at the Luke

9

Dances, drums, and dragons UW celebrates Chinese Lunar New Year

Photo by Shane McMahon

Photo by Daria Kroupoderova/NWAW

Lunar New Year celebration kicks off at Wing Luke Museum

FEBRUARY 21 – FEBRUARY 27, 2015

Performing at UW

By Daria Kroupoderova Northwest Asian Weekly

Lion dancers at the Luke

By Shane McMahon Northwest Asian Weekly As a crowd gathered on King Street, lettuce and firecrackers hung from the front of a building, two pairs of children in lion costumes prepared to dance, and the celebration of the Year of the Sheep was ready to start.

On Feb. 7 the Wing Luke Museum provided Seattle’s International District with the host location for some of the

opening festivities in celebration of the Lunar New Year.

The celebration kicked off with a traditional lion dance, meant to bring good luck and drive out the evil spirits, and was performed by the Lieu Quan Lion Dance Team. With performers aging from 10 to 20 years of age, the team has been performing since 1978 and treated the crowd to a unique experience. While some members {see WING LUKE cont’d on page 19}

University of Washington (UW) rang in the Chinese Lunar New Year with a gala on Feb. 6.

The Chinese Student Association (CSA) put on the 48th annual gala. CSA is a student organization at UW that is “dedicated toward improving cultural awareness on the campus as well as providing support for those who come from a common background,” according to their website.

“We’ve been planning this (the gala) for three months,” CSA Treasurer Min Shao said.

The gala was free to attend for UW students

and $5 to the general public. According to the CSA’s Internal Vice President George Yu, the money raised goes back toward the raffle prizes and other miscellaneous expenses.

The gala consisted of eight different performances with two raffles. The raffle prizes included gift cards to restaurants, Chinese yo-yos, and a big stuffed panda bear.

The gala started off with a LQ Lion Dance, where performers dressed as dragons danced on stage and later walked out to engage with the audience. The audience cheered and children tried to pet the dragons that were walking around. “It gave me an adrenaline {see UW cont’d on page 16}

asianweekly northwest

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FEBRUARY 21 – FEBRUARY 27, 2015

33 YEARS YOUR VOICE

11

FEBRUARY 21 – FEBRUARY 27, 2015

■ arts & entertainment

Shooting stars Famous goats of the last century

By Sun Lee Chang Northwest Asian Weekly

Chow Yun-Fat

Steve Jobs

Zhang Ziyi

without tragedy, with the untimely death of lovers in the mix. Her writings are popular both in mainland China and Taiwan.

Dowager Empress Tzu Hsi (also referred to as Cixi) – She just barely makes this list by her death in the early 1900’s. Born in obscurity in 1835, this woman rose to power and controlled Chinese government from 1861 (upon the death her son’s father, Xianfeng Emperor) to her death in 1908.

A remarkable feat considering the status of women during this time and also the longevity of her influence and powers.

Ken Takakura – Born in 1931, Nakama, Fukuoka, Japan, and died in 2014, internationally known actor, famous for various roles in such films as “The Yakuza” and “Black Rain”.

Pearl Sinn – Korea American golfer, born in 1967 in Seoul, South Korea who moved to the U.S. in grade school. Sinn had a very successful amateur career as a golfer, and later turned professional and was on the LPGA tour from 1991 to 2005.

Li Keqiang – If you think those born in the Year of the Goat are only behind-thescenes players, think again. Born in 1955, Li Keqiang is the current Premier of the People’s Republic of China.

Steve Jobs – Born 1955 and dying in 2011 of cancer, Steve Jobs had an undeniable and profound influence on the world as the cofounder of Apple, Inc. His legacy lives on in the spirit of innovation that he inspired as the head of that company.

Bill Gates – Born in 1955, Bills Gates

became one of the wealthiest men in the world by co-founding Microsoft, which sells software in almost every country. He has since moved on to establish an equally impressive reputation as a philanthropist through his connection with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

Xu Fan – Born in 1967 in Wuhan, Hubei, China. She is an actress best known for her role in the 2010 movie, “Aftershock.”

Zhang Ziyi – Born in 1979 in Beijing, China. This breathtakingly beautiful model and actress is best known for her role in the movie “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon.”  Sun Lee Chang can be reached at info@ nwasianweekly.com.

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Each of the twelve animals in the Chinese Zodiac has certain qualities for which they are known. From the strength and stubbornness of an Ox to the crafty nature of those born in the Year of the Rat, those born in the Year of the Goat (also called the Ram or Sheep) are often known for their creativity, thoughtfulness, and endurance.

From power players in government and business to internationally known artists, here is a sampling of those who embody the range of qualities of those born in the Year of the Goat. It is no surprise that arts are well represented on this list, which includes more than its fair share of actors and writers.

Chow Yun-Fat – It is hard to believe that Chow Yun-Fat will be turning 60 this year in May! Born in 1955 in Hong Kong, he was immensely successful in Asia before his notable crossover success in U.S. films.

American audiences probably know him best for his roles in “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” and “The Replacement Killers,” but he has a whole host of other movies to his credit with an enduring appeal to moviegoers worldwide.

San Mao – Born in 1943 in Chongqing, China, San Mao traveled extensively, translating written works, teaching stints, and writing her own stories until her death in 1991 in Taipei, Taiwan. Her life was not

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asianweekly northwest

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FEBRUARY 21 – FEBRUARY 27, 2015

■ arts & entertainment Seattle Symphony celebrates Asia

By Andrew Hamlin Northwest Asian Weekly

A celebration of food A selection of Lunar New Year favorites

Chinese composer Ye Yanchen, won this year’s “Celebrate Asia Composition Competition,” sponsored by the Seattle Symphony. Public relations manager You You Xia took some questions over email.

NWAW: How were the specific pieces chosen?

Photo courtesy Seattle Symphony

You You Xia: Programs on Celebrate Asia are chosen through a variety of ways. The piece by Yugo Kanno, for example, was brought to our attention by a Celebrate Asia committee member, who also commissioned the piece. Overall, each year we aim to present new music inspired

by Asian culture or written by Asian composers, present Asian performers and conductors both locally and internationally, and overall be attuned and responsive to Seattle’s Asian community.

NWAW: How did Seattle Symphony go about recruiting the guest performers? Which of them are local?

The Seattle Symphony’s “Celebrate Asia” Concert, upcoming Sunday, March 1, features guest conductor Carolyn Kuan.

Amongst other pieces, the symphony will be performing the U.S. premiere of “Revive,” a concerto for koto and shakuhachi written

by Japanese composer Yugo Kanno.

Another prominent piece, “Xizi,” from

By Sun Lee Chang Northwest Asian Weekly

You You Xia: Cellist Meeka Quan DiLorenzo is a Seattle Symphony musician.

Guest performers are chosen through a variety of ways. With Kanno’s piece, once again, the soloists were suggested by the composer in consultation with Yoshi Minegishi, commissioner of the piece. {see CELEBRATE ASIA cont’d on page 17}

Year after year, established traditions add continuity to celebrations, setting them apart from the things we do every day. Think of flowers during Valentine’s or decorated trees during Christmas.

Anticipating the role food plays in our traditions, in particular, are often something to look forward to on special occasions. Just as it is hard to imagine Thanksgiving in America without turkey and pumpkin pie, there are certain foods that are integral to the celebration of the

Lunar New Year in most Asian countries.

The foods and their preparation may vary, but there is a common element of the coming together of family and friends to celebrate, offer thanks, and usher in luck, prosperity, and good health. Here is just a sampling of a few food traditions of the Lunar New Year throughout Asia…

Korea – Ever since I can remember, I have looked forward each year to what the Koreans call Seol-nal (Lunar New Year).

Before the break of dawn, family members gather from far and near to make offerings {see FOOD cont’d on page 15}

Ha p p y L u n a r Ne w Y e a r !

We wish you health, joy, prosperity and fortune in the Year of the Sheep!

Thank you for all your wonderful support!

— From our management and staff Green Leaf Vietnamese Restaurant 1 418 8th Ave. S. Seattle, WA 98104 (206) 340-1388 Open 7 days greenleaftaste.com

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Seattle, WA 98122 (206) 324-6388 Open 7 days aliciafusion.com

33 YEARS YOUR VOICE

FEBRUARY 21 – FEBRUARY 27, 2015

13

OPINION

■ editorial

Surprise, surprise…

Seattle is white (We are not perfect, but we can improve)

With February being Black History Month and the total racial and ethnic minority population projected to increase from 30.9 percent in 2000 to 40.4 percent in 2019, the social network website WalletHub recently conducted an in-depth analysis of 2015’s Cities with the Most & Least Ethno-Racial & Linguistic Diversity.

Given such a forecast, it’s ever more imperative to close the racial gaps across U.S. cities to ensure economic prosperity. The website examined 350 of the most populated U.S. cities across three key metrics, including racial and ethnic diversity, language diversity, and region of birth diversity.

Key statistics The racial and ethnic diversity is four times higher in Vallejo, Calif., than in East Los Angeles, Calif.

East Los Angeles, Calif., has the highest concentration of Hispanics or Latinos, at 97.5 percent.

Livonia, Mich., has the highest concentration of whites, at 89.3 percent.

Detroit has the highest concentration of blacks, at 80.7 percent.

Hialeah, Fla., has the highest concentration of Spanish speakers, at 90.6 percent.

Westminster, Calif., has the highest concentration of Asian- and Pacific Islander-language speakers, at 44.4 percent.

■ commentary

New Bedford, Mass., has the highest Europeanborn population, at 11.4% percent.

Glendale, Calif., has the highest Asian-born population, at 43.3 percent.

So where does Seattle figure in the list?

Overall, we are 203. Racial and ethnic diversity rank is 234; language diversity is 175; and region of birth diversity is 148.

Yep, all totals compiled we are 203 on the list. We fall behind Jacksonville, FL, Amarillo TX, and Salt Lake City, UT. And what can we actually do about the issue?

First, we should welcome and be inviting to all individuals. We should be more than tech-friendly.

Yes, tech is great and is a large part of our community, but we should acknowledge more.

All levels in all fields should be received and respected and be given a warm welcome, whether it is retail, the food industry, entrepreneurial . The city should be positioned as a host for all. Mayor Ed Murray recently hired an executive assistant, a person of color, a strong statement for our city’s position on diversity and leading a good example. Of course, he can do more.

Another great example is our school system’s excellent language programs. Check out our amazing Diversity scholarship nominees (page 5). The University of Washington also houses the Jackson School of International Studies, which contributes to

Cities with the Most Ethno-Racial and Linguistic Diversity

Cities with the Least Ethno-Racial and Linguistic Diversity

1. Jersey City, NJ 2. Germantown, MD 3. Hayward, CA 4. New York, NY 5. Carson, CA 6. San Jose, CA 7. Irving, TX 8. Richmond, CA 9. Santa Clara, CA 10. Stockton, CA

341 Arvada, CO 342 Livonia, MI 343 Fargo, ND 344 Spokane Valley, WA 345 Lee’s Summit, MO 346 Evansville, IN 347 Springfield, MO 348 Jackson, MS 349 Cedar Rapids, IA 350 Billings, MT

diversity and education.

What else can we do to contribute? Perhaps there should be emphasis and resources on housing options and opportunities for those unfamiliar with the city. We should welcome everyone and secure our region as a new home.

Seattle has plenty of potential to move to the top of the list. 

Diversity: Moving beyond zip codes

By Halimah Hussein Northwest Asian Weekly

Diversity is a beautiful thing; it adds a pop of color to a community, like an abstract painting. I remember when I was a student at Franklin High School, where the diversity Halimah Hussein was so rich. Being in South Seattle, Franklin had a lot to be proud of, as it attracted students from areas such as the 98118 zip code. It’s probably the one thing I miss about my time there, because the school that I currently attend lacks that diversity. Identifying as African American is not a rare thing at Nova, my current school – but wearing a head {IMMIGRATION REFORM cont’d from page 6} States.

Priscilla Ouchida, Executive Director, said, “I am disappointed by the decision of the Court to [delay] the DACA and DAPA initiatives. JACL supports efforts to move past this suspension that will interrupt the implementation of much-needed policies to ensure family stability and economic growth.”

According to JACL, approximately 1.3 million people in the Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) community do not have documents. Nearly half that number would be eligible to benefit from Obama’s Nov. 20 immigration order.

“We are deeply disappointed to see a Court blocking a program that is well within the bounds of the President’s executive authority,” said Kathy Ko Chin, President and CEO of the Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum.

“This is yet another example of politics interfering in sound law and policy and one we hope will be swiftly overturned.”

Munoz concurs: “When district courts make decisions like this, it often gets appealed later. We expect to prevail legally.”

It is important to understand that this case won by the Texas District Court is under state jurisdiction. Now, the case will be appealed at the national level.

scarf is and I’m the only one who does. Though Nova may not be as racially diverse as Franklin, I appreciate the other kinds of diversity we are home to, in terms of sexuality, home life, and gender expression. Having experienced both environments, I want all of these diversities to be brought together, to encourage people to educate themselves about social dynamics they might not otherwise consider.

This fall, I will be a first-year college student, and one thing I’ve noticed is that many colleges are not very diverse, especially the “really good ones” that everyone raves about.

Maybe this is because of the stereotypes that students of color (mainly African Americans) don’t have what it takes to make it to college; maybe it’s because, in our society, there is still an open door for racism in our education system. Despite this, I am one of the many students of color who is determined to excel in college! Diversity is especially important for college campuses, because it shows that students of all colors can

achieve their goals. When we see our people doing great things, it inspires us to do great things. I want to see the kids we’re stereotyping on the streets go on to prove society wrong.

I want to go to college to achieve my goals, so I can make a difference and make a life for myself. I see what has happened in our community involving race and prejudice, and I’m going to make change by stepping my foot in the right direction first: getting a higher education. I want to see school systems help students of all colors succeed – this world is honestly a competition, and only those with an education can move forward.

Halimah Hussein is a Northwest Asian Weekly Foundation “Diversity Makes a Difference” scholarship nominee. 

Anyone applying to the current DACA program will not be affected, and in the meantime, those looking to apply to either the expanded DACA or DAPA should continue collecting documentation, identification and other paperwork needed for the application.

“When people are fearful when it comes to applying for DAPA, the President says to take inspiration from your children. These are young people who are willing to come forward. It is our hope that our reforms to the DACA/DAPA programs will continue this inspiration. At the end of the day, we hope to prevail legally,” Muñoz said.

According to Muñoz, “Nov. 20 enforcement priorities remain in place—And the law will be implemented in this way.” This means that out of the 11 million people that currently live in the United States illegally, only enough government dollars are budgeted to deport a small percentage of that group. The executive order of Nov. 20 is meant to focus specifically on those people who have recently crossed the border or have a criminal history.

“People who have established roots in this country are clearly a low priority for law enforcement,” said Muñoz.

The Washington State Attorney General, Bob Ferguson, authored the brief filed in support of the President’s order against the state of Texas.

“I am disappointed in the District Court’s decision to halt needed immigration reform,” Ferguson said. “Washington and other states have a strong interest in reforms that will improve public safety and strengthen our economies. Delay will hurt our communities and punish hard-working, taxpaying immigrants and their families.”

“The Justice Department has indicated that it intends to appeal this ruling, and we look forward to leading the coalition of states in support of the administration’s position. This case has just begun,” said Ferguson. 

Halimah Hussein can be reached at info@nwasianweekly. com.

Keep up to date on the latest information about changes to immigration policy, by visiting the official government website of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) at http://www.uscis.gov/executive-actionsimmigration/executive-actions-immigration-resources.

Flyers are available in English, Chinese, Korean, Spanish and Vietnamese.

You can subscribe to receive email updates from USCIS when more information is available on their website.

Minal Singh can be reached at info@nwasianweekly. com.

asianweekly northwest

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FEBRUARY 21 – FEBRUARY 27, 2015

OPINION

■ PUBLISHER'S BLOG Year of the Sheep is for weaving dreams Eight is a lucky number

The Year of the Sheep is for imagination.

Just look at celebrities born in sheep years: Steve Jobs, Bill Gates, Will Ferrell and others, how they create from nothing to something amazing. It’s time for you to make your Lunar New Year dream list.

The sheep celebrities have certainly inspired me to build my wish list. Instead of a list of 10, I will only list eight, since eight is lucky number in many Asian countries. But if I can get some of my wishes, I will be as happy as a sheep.

Here you go:

1. Fresh Off the Boat unbeaten

“Fresh Off the Boat,” a pilot television series about an Asian American family on ABC prime time, drew over 9 million viewers in its first two episodes, since its debut three weeks ago. It’s about time we have our own show!!!

The last Asian American television show was two decades ago, featuring Margaret Cho

in “The All American Girl,” which ended after 20 episodes.

My son taped the show to make sure his mom watches it dutifully every week. What it means is that young Asian Americans support it. They want to see their own faces and not just the white characters, white values, and white cultures. It also indicates America is curious about Asian Americans, likes the idea of having such a program, and is ready to watch more. We can’t rely on only Asians to watch the show. To make it successful, we need non-Asians to cheer it on as well. The show’s premiere episodes point to it receiving acclaim from all audiences.

Sure, it stereotypes Asian Americans.

Some critics said it wasn’t that funny. Still, I saw myself in the story---how at times, I raised my sons with an iron fist--forcing them to go to Chinese classes on Saturday when they protested. They understood that getting a bad grade would be the end of the world.

I was delighted to watch Asian Americans not being portrayed as sidekicks or secondlead characters, but rather, being the main stars. They were telling our stories, examining struggles, and making sacrifices when living in a new country.

I sincerely hope the show triumphs and lasts for a long, long time. This will encourage Asian Americans, young and old, to think seriously about going into the entertainment industry. Hopefully, this project would also lead to other Asian American characters and movies popping up in Hollywood, giving our

community more opportunities.

So readers, watch it every Tuesday on ABC at 8 p.m. Parents, inspire your kids to follow their passion. Not everyone can be a computer expert, doctor, or engineer. Your kids’ possibilities are endless.

2. Ana Mari Cauce as UW president

University of Washington President Michael Young has announced that he will be leaving for the position of Texas A&M president in June.

“What do you think are Young’s contributions?” I asked some UW alumni.

“He has raised a lot of money,” they replied. When I asked the same question

for Young’s predecessor Mark Emmert, who left UW in 2010, several could instantly articulate what Emmert did for the Asian community and UW. Emmert had a stellar performance in fund-raising for UW too. I have not met someone who felt sorry that Young is leaving.

Yes, he quits simply because the other school pays him more. Need I say more!?

It could be that Young never felt he belonged here. He doesn’t really open himself up much to others. UW Regents picked him through a national search, which was timeconsuming, costly, and a minor return for us.

However, Young did make one significant contribution—the appointment of Provost Ana Mari Cauce, a woman and person of color.

Last week, the UW Board of Regents appointed Cauce to be the interim president.

If the Regents were bold enough to do the right thing, they should encourage Cauce to apply for the permanent job and then pick her. A natural leader in many areas, she works well with people, including the faculty and community. {see BLOG cont’d on page 16}

Want to get the inside scoop on the latest happenings of Seattle’s Asian American community? Follow Publisher Assunta Ng’s blog at nwasianweekly.com under the Opinion section.

33 YEARS YOUR VOICE {FACTS cont’d from page 7} Sheep placenta has been used for many years to promote general health.

It is also typically used by consumers to produce clear and healthy skin, free of wrinkles and blemishes. Although many people disagree on the benefits of this extract, in many areas of the world, it is thought to be a natural way to reduce the toll that age takes on the body.

Wool Wool is the product for which sheep are best known. Wool is widely used in clothing from knitwear such as socks and jumpers to cloth used for suits and costumes. It is used in the furniture trade both for making chair covers and for upholstery. Many of the better carpets produced traditionally and today are made from wool. Wool is used to fill mattresses. It is used in diverse products, such as tennis ball covers, pool table baize, and hanging basket liners.

Skins Sheep skin is commonly used for making the chamois cloth that you wash your car with. A small number of skins are preserved and sold as sheepskins, with the wool still attached. The skins from hair sheep produce the highest quality leather. This is because the numerous fine wool fibers, as compared to the lesser number of coarse fibers of the hair sheep, cause the skin to be more open and loose in texture.

Dairy Sheep cheese comprises about 1.3 percent of the world’s cheese production. Some of the world’s most famous cheeses were originally made from sheep’s milk: Roquefort, Feta, Ricotta, and Pecorina Romano. Sheep’s milk is also made into yogurt, butter, and ice cream. The United States is a large importer of sheep milk cheeses.  James Chang can be reached at info@nwasianweekly.com.

{FOOD cont’d from page 12} of food to their ancestors, often in the colorful traditional dress called hanbok, and then join together for a huge feast. The most common dish for this celebration a soup made with sliced rice cakes called tteokguk (literally translated it means rice cake soup). This soup is meant to celebrate the fact that you are one year older. Even when I wasn’t really that hungry so early in the morning, my mother would say to me, “you should eat it for luck, even if you only eat a little bit of it.” To not eat any of it, would be unheard of!

China – Depending on what region of China where one is celebrating, the food of the Lunar New Year includes whole citrus fruits for luck, long noodles for long life, and Nian gao (a tasty special New Year’s cake for prosperity), with dumplings and fish rounding out the list.

Japan – In Japan, the Lunar New Year is referred to as Oshogatsu. As with China, the Japanese also consume long soba noodles (again for long life), mochi, and osechi

FEBRUARY 21 – FEBRUARY 27, 2015

{TAKAHATA cont’d from page 8} themes. His past works have focused on lovable and strong female characters, including his 1970s Japanese TV series “Heidi, Girl of the Alps,”based on the book by Swiss author Johanna Spyri.

Takahata, who also wrote the screenplay for “Kaguya,” does not draw himself.

And so visually his works take many styles, from the doe-eyed portrayals typical of Japanese manga, in the 1988 “Grave of the Fireflies,”a powerful antiwar tear-jerker, to the oil-painting inspired “Gauche the Cellist,”a tasteful 1982 rendition of a classic by early 20th century poet-writer Kenji Miyazawa.

Although “Kaguya” is seen as a long-shot in Oscar speculation, Takahata is flattered the work was nominated, as a team of people worked hard on it, he says.

Unlike Hayao Miyazaki, another Ghibli star and the 2003 Oscar winner for “Spirited Away,”who dislikes traveling, Takahata will attend the Academy Awards ceremony Feb. 22.

Takahata confesses to an almost love-hate relationship with Miyazaki because their works are so different. He tries not to talk about Miyazaki’s works because he would have to be honest, and then he would end up getting critical. That would lead to

ryori (an elaborate selection of foods, often preserved with vinegar, sugar, or dried with ingredients such as fish, daikon, chestnuts, roe, lotus root, and kelp).

Thailand – The Thai have yet another name for the Lunar New Year, which is Wan Trut Chin. Fresh citrus fruits, steamed chicken or duck, pork heads, and cakes made with fruit are all customarily served on New Year’s Day. Vietnam – The Vietnamese also celebrate the Lunar New Year, calling it Tet Nguyen Dan. The most commonly eaten food of Tet is Banh Chung (a square shaped wrapping of banana leaf around sticky rice with filling of pork and mung bean, and other seasoning and flavorings), as well as nuts, candied fruit and seeds. Banh Chung is meant to symbolize the earth, as well as loyalty and gratitude. It is a very common offering to ancestors during the Vietnamese celebration of the New Year.  Sun Lee Chang can be reached at info@nwasianweekly. com.

15

conflict, when he respects Miyazaki, he said.

Daisuke Watanabe, a scholar and critic of film, characterized “Kaguya”as a masterpiece and a culmination of Takahata’s legacy, and in a larger sense, the seven-decade history of Japanese animation.

Japanese animation had its beginnings in those who wanted to create a studio like Disney’s, Watanabe said.

“The fact that this work has won a positive evaluation from the Academy, for an award bestowed by Hollywood, that place that created Disney, is so moving,”he said.

Takahata has his mind set on his next work, a story about exploited girls, forced to work as nannies with infants strapped on their backs. Most lullabies in Japan were not for parents singing babies to sleep, but for such young women, crying out about their suffering, Takahata said.

All the stories he wants to tell, including “Kaguya,”he said, urges everyone to live life to their fullest, to be all they can be, not bogged down by petty concerns like money and prestige.

“This earth is a good place, not because there is eternity,”he said. “All must come to an end in death.

But in a cycle, repeated over and over, there will always be those who come after us,”he said. 

asianweekly northwest

16

FEBRUARY 21 – FEBRUARY 27, 2015

{UW cont’d from page 9}

{BLOG cont’d from page 14}

rush with the dragons walking in the aisles,” CSA member Anran Lin said.

There were dance performances by the Jing Ting Dance Academy and Northwest Chinese School, and the Hengda Dance Academy. A Japanese drumming group, Inochi Taiko, got the audience amped up with their fast beats and energy. The Husky Wushu club also performed different types of martial art moves with performers using swords or fans.

“Husky Wushu is one of my favorites,” Shao said. “Wushu is an important component of the cultural heritage of China. The music was exciting and their moves were so powerful.”

Approximately 450 people attended the gala, according to Yu. Acts were chosen based on their performances and on previous galas.

There were also new acts thrown in, including the Seattle Guzheng, a quartet of women playing the guzheng, a Chinese zither.

Joycelin Chui, an international student from Hong Kong, said she really enjoyed the performances because they brought back memories of home and celebrating the Chinese Lunar New Year. Some of her favorites were the Chinese yo-yo performer, Eric Wu, and the Peacock dance by the Hengda Dance Academy.

Overall, “the show went without a hitch,” according to Shao.

“It was a great show for me, and seeing our audience walking out... with smiles on their faces, I can tell it was a good show for them too.” 

A female university president is a treasure, only 27 percent of university and college presidents are women. We have an excellent candidate now and it’s up to the Regents.

Don’t make the same mistake like last time--UW lost President Emmert and Provost Phyllis Wise, a Chinese American. The Board was unsupportive of the idea of Wise’s candidacy for the presidency. So she stayed out of the race and worked as interim president before Young’s arrival. Then, the University of Illinois approached Wise and grabbed her as Chancellor at Urbana-Champaign.

Please keep Cauce for the good of the UW.

3. Go Seahawks!

I am still proud of the team although the Hawks lost its Super Bowl championship.

The Hawks don’t get the respect and prestige they deserve--they are not even on the top 10 most popular football teams in the United States. But if they can prove themselves in 2016 with a championship, who would dare challenge their talents?

Yes, Hawks for a 2016 win! Yes, we can!

4. $15 minimum wage

that they will be able to survive by developing innovative measures, and be equipped with a fighting spirit in dealing with adversities.

5. Lester Holt as anchor?

Who would have predicted that Lester Don Holt, Jr. would be the interim anchor in 2015 for NBC Nightly News during Brian Williams’ sixmonth suspension?

(Williams has been accused of embellishing his role in a fighting helicopter during the Iraq War when he was actually in another plane.) If Williams doesn’t return, Holt will be the first person of color anchor for a major network.

Even though many said Williams deserves a second chance, and he does, there is a silver lining for the public to recognize that Holt can fill a big anchor’s shoes. So I am rooting for Holt to be a prime-time news anchor—if not for NBC, then one of the other major networks.

6. Great stories!

Did you know that many times the media, including newspapers, are dictated by good visuals? Maybe we don’t have the meatiest story in a certain week, but we can try to procure a good photo to complement it. So the story gets a front-page position even though it’s not important enough to be placed there.

That visual can make all the difference.

In the Year of the Sheep, I hope we will have stories that won’t depend on that. I am not hoping for disaster and bad news, but perhaps with our readership’s help (send us story ideas!), we can really provide great and exciting stories--especially those which can lift the human spirit. Yes, we will still deliver the bad news, but hopefully it will be a year of good news.

We hope to see great things happening in the Asian community and people of color

Daria Kroupoderova can be reached at info@nwasianweekly. com.

The $15 minimum wage will be implemented in Seattle on April 1. It would be tough on minority businesses and even mainstream businesses.

I pray for business owners not to be victimized by the $15 minimum wage, and

{GRAFFITI cont’d from page 7}

{BELLEVUE cont’d from page 7}

“most welcome” in the Hindu Temple & Cultural Center in Bothell, whose mission is to “Promote social, cultural, religious, and spiritual understanding”. It was sad that such graffiti showed up on its wall a day before the Temple was scheduled to celebrate the major Hindu festival of Maha-Sivaratri. Efforts to build this Temple reportedly began in 1980’s. 

almost clown-like.

“This year we are going to hand out the lucky red envelopes. I thought that would be a nice touch for customers,” says Julie Hamasaki, style and event coordinator for the Bellevue Collection. “We are going to hand that out to kids…Upstairs we will have our activity table with

so we can present inspirational pieces and lessons for us all.

7. Speak up about mental health issues

Asian Americans who have mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression, are often ashamed to admit that they need help. Asian culture pressures many of the patients not to seek help and support, due to perhaps “saving face.” Everyone deserves to have a quality life. No one should be afraid to make changes or be ashamed to talk about something they need support for. Be brave and seek help.

Be consistent and unashamed in your search for support. Be vocal. There is nothing to be frightened or embarrassed about when it comes to depression or other mental illness.

My wish is to be able to use the Asian Weekly as a resource and hopefully make a contribution to our community. We tried to address this issue after hearing about Yale student’s Luchang Wang’s suicide in our recent editorial. You will hear from us more about the issue. If you have any thoughts, please let us know.

8. Enjoy, relax, and focus on your blessings

My job is stressful as a publisher. Every day, I search for ways and moments to enjoy, laugh, and relax. My wish for you is the same.

Every day, I make a decision in the morning that I am going to have a great day no matter what happens and how lousy it might be. It’s easier said than done. It’s my goal in Sheep Year, though.

In 2014, I was successful most days, but still working on some glitches along the way. In the Year of the Sheep, I hope I can achieve my goal 99 percent of the time.

Happy New Year in the Name of the Sheep, the most peaceful and patient animal of all in the 12 zodiac signs. 

take-away things like calligraphy. This is a nonverbal way of saying, ‘Welcome to this culture,’ or an easy way to learn about it. We have display boards up that explain the Lunar New Year.”

Ideally, for the Lunar New Year, people should wear new clothes, and red or gold are particularly encouraged. However, Hamasaki and Leavitt both urge visitors to come as they are, to enjoy the free event. 

Want to become a fan on Facebook or follow us on Twitter?

Visit www.nwasianweekly.com.

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33 YEARS YOUR VOICE

■ astrology

FEBRUARY 21 – FEBRUARY 27, 2015

17

For the week of February 21–February 27, 2015

By Sun Lee Chang

Rat — There is no benefit to waiting until the end to make your preferences known – lay out your requirements at the beginning.

Dragon — Be consistent with how well you take care of yourself. Holding off for a convenient time isn’t a good idea.

Monkey — Do you feel as though you energy is waning this week? If you are not getting enough rest, try going to bed earlier than you normally do.

Ox — Trying to decide between two very different things? Ask yourself which one is a greater priority to you right now.

Snake — A thirst for more complete information could lead you down an interesting road. What you find out might surprise you.

Rooster — If something isn’t working for you the way it should, then it is up to you to either seek help or figure out a new way forward.

Tiger — An easily recognizable sign is before you.

Whether you want to avoid it or embrace it must be determined soon.

Horse — Once you have found what you have been looking for, be careful how you handle it. A precious item will often be quite fragile.

Dog — A sliver of truth does not necessarily mean the entire thing is justified. An honest assessment is crucial at this juncture.

Rabbit — Are you afraid of failure or success at all? Facing your own inner doubts will help you to conquer new territory.

Goat — Are you saving a treat for later? Make it even more special by finding someone you care about to share it with.

Pig — Get in touch with your playful side. A lighthearted outing might be just what you need this week to brighten up your mood.

What’s your animal sign?

Rat 1912, 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008 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 Rooster 1921, 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005 Dog 1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006 Pig 1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007

*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.

{CELEBRATE ASIA cont’d from page 12}

{DIVERSITY cont’d from page 5}

NWAW: How do the pre-concert festivities differ from the show itself? Which performers will be showcased there?

started an Amnesty International club at the high school.

The Principal asked her to greet King County Executive Dow Constantine at the high school early this year and participate on a panel related to his call for the first “Strategic Plan for King County Equity and Social Justice.”

She is a mixed-race student in a high school that is over 70% white, over 20% Asian, and only 2.5% mixed-race or black. She suggests, ‘Talk to people around you. Be

You You Xia: The pre-concert festivities are more like a mini-festival, and takes place in the lobby. It’s not a concert performance which involves the Symphony. The events represent various Asian cultures, such as the Japanese Taiko drumming, the Taiwnese Aborigine dances, etc. They are also not restricted to music only.

NWAW: How did the idea for the show grow and change over time?

You You Xia: The goal of Celebrate Asia has not changed over time, it has always been about honoring the Asian community in Seattle. The concert program each year is put together through a combination of our usual artistic selection process, and also feedback we get from the Asian community.

NWAW: Are there any plans to do similar events in the future?

You You Xia: This is an annual event, so yes, it will definitely happen again next year.

For more information about the program and the preprogram festivities, visit http://www.seattlesymphony.org/ about/newsroom/pressrelease/celebrate-asia.

Andrew Hamlin can be reached at info@nwasianweekly. com.

{SPORTS cont’d from page 3} the league this year.

As for Lin, he has not produced as one may have thought he would have with the team. In the game against the Blazers, he missed his first 6 shots and earned two quick fouls. He was outplayed by Portland’s guards and looked rattled by the defensive pressure. With all of his jump shots he was falling away from the basket. He was not able to make any successful drives to the basket. Portland just had too much pressure on him. Lin ended the game with just 2 points, both from the free throw line.

On the other end of the spectrum was Lakers rookie guard Jordan Clarkson. Clarkson, whose mother is Filipino has benefitted from the Lakers lack of success by being given additional playing time to see what he could add to the team. So far so good. The slim, 6 foot 5, 185 pound guard has averaged 13 points in his last 10 games which almost doubles his season average. Opportunity is

TAITUNG

open and be willing to have an informed opinion...keep in mind that discussing is different than arguing; real progress comes from being open to other views.’”

Halimah Hussein, NOVA High School Read her essay on page 13!  Peggy Chapman can be reached at editor@ nwasianweekly.com.

what he attributes the surge in production. He was the leading scorer for the Lakers against the Blazers with 17 points.

In post-game, Clarkson’s teammate Ed Davis, whose locker was next to Clarkson’s chimed in that opportunity is what helped the rookie when the question of his improved play was asked. Clarkson agreed, “What he said.”

Admittedly Clarkson was surprised by the outpouring of support from his Filipino fans. “I was really surprised.

I know basketball is big over there but I didn’t think that that many people would be supporting me.” Clarkson recalls his grandmother and mother cooking him chicken adobo and lumpia for him when he was young but he was primarily raised by his dad. “I appreciate it,” Clarkson said of his Filipino fans, “and will continue to make them proud.”  Jason Cruz can be reached at info@nwasianweekly. com.

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FEBRUARY 21 – FEBRUARY 27, 2015

{NYC COPS cont’d from page 6} THE BOROUGHS: Staten Island, where Garner died, is by far the least populated of the city’s five boroughs, with about 472,000 residents, the most conservative and least racially diverse, dominated by homeowners rather than renters, and home to many current and retired police officers. According to the 2010 census, it’s the only borough where non-Hispanic whites make up a majority — 64 percent. It had the lowest percentage of blacks at 9.5 percent. The borough leans Republican.

Brooklyn, where Gurley was killed, has 2.5 million people, and houses some of the wealthiest and poorest in the city. According to census figures, the borough is 36 percent non-Hispanic white, and 35 percent black. The median household income is $49,000. It contains areas with some of the highest crime rates in the city, and also the highest level of police involvement.

THE DISTRICT ATTORNEYS: Brooklyn District Attorney Ken Thompson won a contentious race in 2013, displacing the longtime incumbent, and his tenure so far has been marked by a series of exonerations. The bulk of the cases stem from concerns about the investigative tactics of a now-retired detective. On Wednesday, Thompson said Liang’s case was not to be seen in the shadow of Garner. “This case has nothing to do with Ferguson or Eric Garner or any other case,” he said. “This case has to do with an innocent man who lost his life and a young New York City police officer who has now been charged with taking his life,” he said.

Staten Island District Attorney Daniel Donovan has held the job for a little over a decade. He is currently planning to run for the Congressional seat formerly occupied by disgraced Rep. Michael Grimm in a special election.

Donovan asked for some details of the Garner grand jury to be released, but not a transcript of the minutes. The New York Civil Liberties Union and others asked a court to order

Donovan to release the transcript, detailed descriptions of evidence and other documentation. A judge is weighing a request.

NOW WHAT: Federal prosecutors are reviewing the Garner case, and the family has filed paperwork to sue the city.

Liang likely will face a judge, not a jury, and experts say it will be difficult to win a conviction because they will have to prove he knew there was a substantial risk of causing someone’s death and disregarded it to be convicted on the top charges. “It’s a very tough sell,” said Bennett Gershman, a Pace University law professor and former prosecutor. “I give the DA a lot of credit; it was a courageous use of authority here. Now comes the tough part. It’s easy to get a grand jury to indict; it’s quite different to win a conviction.” The family of Gurley also has filed paperwork to sue the city. 

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33 YEARS YOUR VOICE

{WING LUKE cont’d from page 9}

petting zoo of fellow zodiac animals besides the sheep. Miss Vietnam Washington hosted story time on the third floor with princesses, reading to kids looking to learn more about the celebration.

Each of the three floors had items varying from New Year’s related galleries to historical pieces and various art, clothing, and informational exhibits on display.

Businesses benefit from having increased traffic flooding into the neighborhood and with a festival on Feb. 21 in the Chinatown-International District, over 40 participating restaurants have signed up to be involved with the 5th Annual Lunar New Year $2 Food Walk. Visitors can get $2 portions of foods from local restaurants involved.

“We want to involve the community and get people to explore this area if they’ve never been before,” said Wing Luke Marketing Associate Tiffanie Lam. Lam explains that events like the Lunar New Year celebration can double the daily expected attendance for the Wing Luke. She said there’s an opportunity to involve bystanders and intrigue someone who’s never been, to be a potential member. Restaurants in the community can use the upcoming food walk to get their products to firsttime customers and build relationships that will strengthen the bond between visitors and the International District community.

The Lunar New Year celebration will be opening the doors to commerce showing what the neighborhood can offer. With a Vietnamese New Year celebration starting on Feb. 21 as well, this month offers plenty of opportunities to learn about and explore. 

Shane McMahon can be reached at info@nwasianweekly.com.

danced in the bright yellow or white lion costumes, others lit firecrackers, and some were beating drums and cymbals.

Children and distinguished guests, members of the museum and from the local community offered red envelopes as well as fed lettuce to the lions to thank them for driving away the spirits during the dance. The Chinese (Cantonese) word for lettuce has a historical connection with the word for wealth and the two sound quite similar as well.

“We make a lot of food and get our family together every time for the new year,” Heng Zhang, a father in attendance, said of the importance of celebrating in addition to the traditional dances.

Zhang and his daughter were just one of the many families there to take part in the afternoon of events.

The celebration started with opening remarks from special guest and KIRO 7 TV anchor Monique Ming Laven as an emcee and had board members from the International District Business Improvement Area as well as members of Cathay Post 186, one of the only chapters in the American Legion founded by Chinese Americans veterans.

“This celebration is one of the museum’s most favorite events, as it brings people together from across the city and is one of our largest community gatherings,” Wing Luke board member Jill Nishi said during the introduction before the lion dance.

After the lion dance, museum visitors were encouraged to play games and watch short films related to the new year amongst other exhibits offered to celebrate. Children could participate in a game of “hide and sheep,” finding miniature animals hidden in one room.

Another room featured a stuffed animal

FEBRUARY 21 – FEBRUARY 27, 2015

Northwest Asian Weekly / Seattle Chinese Post presents

Chinatown-International District Lunar New Year Celebration

Children’s Parade Contest | Saturday, February 21, 2015

Children’s Parade Competition Schedule: • 11:30 AM — Registration • 1 PM — Line up • 1:30 PM — Parade Begins • 2:30 PM — Parade winners announced!!!

• Start from Northwest Asian Weekly’s front door, march to main stage • Contestants must be present at the announcement of finalists (1:50 PM).

• Finalists will be lined up in numerical order.

• All contestants will receive a fortune cookie and lucky candies.

Registration/Sign-Up: • You may pre-register for the contest by filling out this application and sending it in or sign-up on the day of the contest (Saturday, February 21) at 11:30 a.m. at the registration table. Registration table will be located in front of Seattle Chinese Post/ Northwest Asian Weekly – 412 Maynard Ave S. • Contestants are chosen on a first come first serve basis.

• Contestants must sign-in at the registration table 15 minutes prior to parade.

Rules/Guidelines: • Children ages 12 and under can participate in the contest • Parents are welcome to accompany their children during the Parade • Children will be given a contestant number for order of Parade lineup • Children attire should be culturally relevant to the Lunar New Year Celebration Judging: • All contestants will be judged by the provided judging criteria.

• Prizes will be awarded to First ($100), Second ($50), and Third ($25) Place Winners, plus 15 honorable mentions.

• All decisions made by competition judges are final.

Check out our last year’s parade contest! http://www.nwasianweekly.com/2014/02/welcoming-year-horse

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Please submit completed application through one of the following methods: Mail: Northwest Asian Weekly Children’s Parade Contest 412 Maynard Ave. S. Seattle, WA 98104

Name: ________________________________________________________

Phone: ________________________________________________________

E-mail: ________________________________________________________ Contestants must adhere to all rules and regulations. Contest officials will remove any contestant failing to cooperate with officials or failing to comply with the rules and regulations. If you have any questions, please contact Northwest Asian Weekly at 206.223.5559 or via email at rsvp@nwasianweekly.com.

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asianweekly northwest

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FEBRUARY 21 – FEBRUARY 27, 2015