VOL 33 NO 16 | APRIL 12 – APRIL 18, 2014

PRSRT STD U.S. Postage Paid Permit No. 746 Seattle, WA

VOL 33 NO 16

APRIL 12 – APRIL 18, 2014

32 YEARS YOUR VOICE

Beacon Hill building energizes Seattle Lees

Photo by Jason Cruz/NWAW

Photo by Rebecca Ip/SCP

Reign welcomes a Women’s World Cup veteran to the club

FREE

Apop!

Pop culture’s losers & winners » P. 9

Lees cut the ribbon in front of their new building.

By Jason Cruz Northwest Asian Weekly Atop the roof of the Space Needle on April 2, the Seattle Reign FC unveiled its new “kits,” a soccer term for uniforms, for the 2014 season. Among the team members for the professional women’s soccer club braving the dry, chilly mid-morning day was Nahomi Kawasumi. Kawasumi, or “Naho” as she is known to her teammates, is a Japanese goalscoring forward who should add experience to the team.

Kawasumi was signed by the Reign in February and is one of the few international players on a predominantly American team. The 28-year-old was born and raised in the Kanagawa Prefecture in Japan, where she began playing soccer, following in the footsteps of her older sister.

She played soccer throughout her youth and became a prolific goal scorer. In 2008, at the age of 23, she signed with a club team in Japan, and was chosen to play on Japan’s women’s national team the same year.

In the team’s second year of

existence, the 5’2” Kawasumi is one of the bigger signings for the Reign. Hope Solo is also a member of the club. Solo is a former University of Washington goalie and member of the U.S. women’s World Cup team that played against Kawasumi in the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup Championship. Kawasumi and Team Japan prevailed in the game in penalty kicks to clinch the gold medal.

“She’s awesome,” Kawasumi said through an interpreter. “I knew she (Solo) was great, even though we only saw her play for a week.”

Kawasumi did not score a goal in the gold medal game, but she scored two crucial goals in the semifinal against Sweden, which made the difference in Japan’s 3-1 victory.

Last year, Kawasumi played for Japan’s INAC Kobe Leonessa and earned 2013 MVP honors.

She was the second leading scorer in the league.

Kawasumi had multiple offers from teams in the National {see KAWASUMI cont’d on page 13}

extended family’s achievements.

Lee is the second most common surname in China, behind only Wang, according to Wikipedia. It is also one of the most common surnames in the world, shared by 93 million people in China and more than 100 million worldwide.

Last year, Seattle’s Lee Family

Association (SLFA) bought a building for over $550,000, including remodeling, at 3217 Beacon Avenue South. To celebrate the Beacon Hill building’s grand opening, the association invited leaders from Lee Family chapters {see LEE cont’d on page 10}

Fukushima children start new school after f leeing radiation

By Yuri Kageyama Associated Press MATSUMOTO, Japan (AP) – The 12-year-old girl didn’t want to leave her younger brother, and her grandparents didn’t want her to go away. But a family living near the “no-go zone” surrounding Japan’s destroyed nuclear plant has other things to consider.

Yukie Hashimoto and her husband sent their daughter 200 miles away to the picturesque ski town of Matsumoto, where the mayor offered to take in and educate young people living in the shadow of the Fukushima Dai-ichi nuclear plant. {see FUKUSHIMA cont’d on page 12}

AP Photo/Koji Sasahara

Nahomi Kawasumi joined her teammates high atop the Space Needle.

By Assunta Ng Northwest Asian Weekly

Four beauties wearing their crowns and native costumes — all sharing the same surname and ancestors dating back 2,000 years in China — joined hundreds of Lees on March 30 to cheer their

Kokoro Kamiyama, 13, left in foreground, attends an opening ceremony of her Aida Junior High School on April 5, as she starts her new life in Matsumoto, central Japan, after moving from Fukushima.

The Inside Story NAMES Locals in the news » P. 2

■

ENTERTAINMENT 5 bands compete at Kollaboration » P. 4

COMMUNITY Crime: fraud & more fraud » P. 5

EDUCATION Diversity Makes a Difference winers » P. 8

412 Maynard Ave. S., Seattle, WA 98104 • t. 206.223.5559 • f. 206.223.0626 • info@nwasianweekly.com • ads@nwasianweekly.com • www.nwasianweekly.com

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■ NAMES IN THE NEWS

From left, Charlene Lee, Mona Locke, David Richart, Jerry Lee, Ambassador Gary Locke.

On March 1, former U.S. Ambassador to China Gov. Gary Locke and former Washington State First Lady Mona Locke joined Komen Puget Sound executive director David Richart and honorary co-chairs Jerry and Charlene Lee at Komen Puget Sound’s annual Grace Notes Gala. About 300 benefactors attended the event at the Fairmount Olympic Hotel, raising $600,000 to support medical research into a cure for breast cancer. 

Miyake named city manager

The City Council on April 8 unanimously selected Brad Miyake as Bellevue’s next city manager, pending contract negotiations.

Miyake has served as acting city manager since May 2013, when former City Manager Steve Sarkozy resigned.

During his 23 years at the City of Bellevue, Miyake has Brad Miyake served as deputy city manager, Utilities director and deputy director, and the city’s budget manager. He was born and raised in Seattle and graduated from the University of Washington with a bachelor’s degree in business administration. In March, Miyake represented Bellevue as part of the Japanese American Leadership Delegation. It was his first trip to Japan.

Women discuss ‘glorious food’ The Wells Fargo Washington Women’s Roundtable was held March 18 at FareStart in Seattle. The theme, “Food, Glorious Food,” featured a panel of top local women in the multi-million dollar food industry on the topics of restaurant trends, sustainability, and “good eats.” Speakers included Andrina Bigelow of Fran’s Chocolates, Maria Smeraldo of Il Terrazzo Carmine, and Lisa Nakamura chef Lisa Nakamura. The event was moderated by Patti Payne, PSBJ columnist and principal of The Payne Group, and hosted by Mary Knell, a Washington and Canada CEO. 

He said the most important thing that occurred during his time in Seattle was the enactment of the U.S.-Korea Free Trade Agreement, which removed most of the import and export tariffs between the two countries.

Song said he has enjoyed his time in the Northwest.

“It has been like a quasi-paradise to me,” he stated. “You have such a beautiful environment with all of the lakes, rivers, mountains, and seashores.” He and his wife, Sang Mi Hwang, have traveled to many parts of the state and particularly enjoyed the Olympic Peninsula. Their daughter graduated from Northwestern University in Chicago during their time here and has since returned to Korea. He called the people of Washington “kind-natured and gracious.”

Song will return to Korea soon to await his next diplomatic assignment. His replacement has not yet been formally announced, but Song said, “an excellent diplomat has been chosen.” 

General Biodiesel named West Seattle Business of the Year

Korean consul returns home

Photo courtesy of Lt. Gov. Brad Owen

Photo courtesy of Susan G. Koman Puget Sound

Komen event raises $600K

Consul General Song Young-wan bids farewell to Lt. Gov. Brad Owen

Consul General Song Young-wan, the Republic of Korea’s highest-ranking consular officer at the nation’s Seattle consulate, is leaving his post after three years.

The Consulate General of the Republic of Korea covers the states of Washington, Idaho, Oregon, Alaska, and Montana, providing visa and passport services. Song also spent his time both on diplomatic affairs and interacting with government and business leaders throughout the region.

The crew at General Biodiesel are proud of their success.

General Biodiesel recently received the West Seattle Chamber of Commerce Westside Business of the Year Award. The company helps businesses with free pickup of used greases. This is then used to provide an alternative to petroleum fuel. Yale and Laura Wong launched General Biodiesel in 2006 to help reduce the nation’s reliance on foreign fuel. They also offer support to numerous nonprofits, including community food banks, the Wing Luke Museum, Susan G. Komen for the Cure, and the Japanese Citizens League. 

32 YEARS YOUR VOICE

APRIL 12 – APRIL 18, 2014

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■ national news

■ arts & entertainment

Supreme Court Justice API bands compete in says internment ruling Kollaboration showcase could happen again

panic about the war and the invasion of the Pacific and whatnot.

That’s HONOLULU (AP) – U.S. what happens. It was Supreme Court Justice wrong, but I would not be Antonin Scalia told law surprised to see it happen students at the University again, in time of war. It’s of Hawaii last month that no justification, but it is the nation’s highest court the reality,” he said. was wrong to uphold the Avi Soifer, the law internment of Japanese school’s dean, said he Americans during World believed was Scalia War II, but he wouldn’t U.S. Supreme Court Justice suggesting people always Antonin Scalia be surprised if the court have to be vigilant and issued a similar ruling that the law alone can’t be during a future conflict. trusted to provide protection.

Scalia was responding to a question Soifer said it’s good to hear Scalia about the court’s 1944 decision in say the Korematsu ruling was wrong, Korematsu v. United States, which noting the justice has been among upheld the convictions of Gordon those who have reined in the power of Hirabayashi and Fred Korematsu military commissions regardless of the for violating an order to report to an administration. internment camp.

“We do need a court that sometimes “Well, of course Korematsu was will say there are individual or group wrong. And I think we have repudiated rights that are not being adequately in a later case. But you are kidding protected by the democratic process,” yourself if you think the same thing will Soifer said. not happen again,” Scalia told students Scalia was appointed to the nation’s and faculty during a lunchtime Q&A highest court in 1986, making him the session. longest-serving justice currently on the Scalia cited a Latin expression court. meaning, “In times of war, the laws fall The 77-year-old spoke after teaching silent.” a class. He didn’t take questions from “That’s what was going on — the media. 

All photos are courtesy of Kollaboration

By Audrey McAvoy Associated Press

Five local API bands will vie for the chance to compete at Kollaboration Star in L.A. next fall.

Kollaboration Seattle’s talent showcase will feature finalists Nufangled, Emma, Tati & Adry, CDQ, and Jett at the Meydenbauer Center in Bellevue on Saturday, April 12. The winner will compete in L.A. with finalists from 12 different cities, where they will face off for the grand prize of $10,000.

Saturday’s event in Bellevue will be hosted

by Portland comedian Bri Pruett and also offer musical performances from Troy Osaki & Ariel Loud and Lion’s Ambition.

Judges include hip-hop dance choreographer Jessica Hu, producers Ian

David Nsenga from Vancouver, B.C., and Seattle-based entertainment company Tread Worldwide Corp., CJ Castrence. Bri Pruett will be the host of the evening, named as one of the “Funniest 5 Comedians” in Portland by the Willamette Week.

Kollaboration brings local talent into the spotlight nationwide and promotes and sustains an Asian and Pacific Islander presence in entertainment and media.  Tickets for the event are $15–$20. Showtime is 7 p.m.

For more information, KollaborationSeattle.org.

visit

www.

32 YEARS YOUR VOICE

■ community news

APRIL 12 – APRIL 18, 2014

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Sting operation nets stolen goods, drug dealers, and scammers in ID The Seattle Police Department reported the March 27 arrest of 25 suspects in a three-month operation called “Rock and Hock” that targeted drug dealing and the trafficking of stolen cell phones and computers in the Chinatown-International District.

Seattle police raided a Vietnamese restaurant and a tent in the woods near 12th Avenue and Jackson Street, where they also found a woman selling illegally purchased shrimp out of a van.

The operation by SPD’s Major Crimes Task Force (MCTF) stemmed from a January request by the East Precinct’s captain for help in addressing drug dealing in the area, according to an SPD spokesman.

“My officers were seeing car prowls and drug deals out there, and growing unrest in the community,” said East Precinct Captain Pierre Davis. “Once officers started putting these cases together, one arrest led to another.”

“Informants were telling us it was so bad that you couldn’t walk down the street without getting hit up to buy drugs or electronic food-assistance benefit cards,” said Detective Todd Jakobsen.

The first break in the operation came after a burglar, who was arrested in downtown Seattle, tipped police that OneStop Wireless, on Jackson Street, which was previously raided by the MCTF in 2009 for trafficking stolen cell phones and computers, was back in business, according to the SPD. “Before One-Stop opened up their doors at 10 o’clock every morning,” Det. Jakobsen said, “there would be a line of people looking to sell iPhones and iPads they had stolen the night before.”

MCTF detectives served a warrant at One-Stop on Jan.

Photo courtesy of SPD

By Staff Northwest Asian Weekly

A sting operation by the Major Crimes Task Force uncovered shady dealings in the neighborhood of 12th Avenue and Jackson Street. After arresting more than two dozen people, police said they were going to “take that area back for the community.”

14, and seized 804 suspected stolen computers, iPods, and cell phones, as well as $226,000 in cash.

While working the One-Stop case, detectives also began a drug sting near 12th and Jackson. Undercover officers and informants began buying drugs — primarily crack cocaine — in the neighborhood. The MCTF identified more than two dozen dealers, and began building cases against the suspects.

The drug investigation also led detectives to a tent in the woods under I-5 near 8th Avenue South and South Jackson Street. Police learned the tent was being used by suppliers to traffic several ounces of crack cocaine every day in the neighborhood around 12th. This tent was also recently the site of at least one reported shooting.

Detectives also noticed a number of drug dealers in the neighborhood frequenting the Thanh Tam Restaurant, said

an SPD spokesman. One police informant told detectives they had purchased drugs from the restaurant’s owners more than 100 times. On March 26, police recovered $17,000 and 16 grams of cocaine at the business.

While investigating the drug and stolen cell phone operations, the MCTF received another request for assistance, this time from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), which was investigating Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) fraud around 12th and Jackson.

Once the MCTF began investigating with the USDA, they found that middlemen were recruiting people off the street to sell their EBT benefits to clerks at the Minh Tam Market, according to the SPD. The clerks paid undercover officers and informants 50 cents on the dollar for their {see STING cont’d on page 12}

Bank fraudsters preyed on Vietnamese community

By Staff Northwest Asian Weekly A member of a bank fraud scheme who threatened people with a firearm to try to collect debts was sentenced last week to six years in prison, announced U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan.

Son Pham, 45, pleaded guilty in November 2013 to two counts of attempted collection of extensions of credit by extortionate means, one count of bank fraud, and one count of carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. Pham admits he used threats of violence to collect debts and that he had arranged for one of his co-conspirators to be armed with a firearm, while the threats were made. At sentencing, U.S. District Judge Robert S. Lasnik ordered Pham to pay $115,690 in restitution for the bank fraud scheme.

Chi Anh Nguyen, 45, formerly of Seattle, was the ringleader of the scheme. He admitted in a plea agreement last August that he defrauded banks by exploiting the “float time” from when a credit card bill is considered paid and when the actual payment is received.

An investigation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) uncovered losses totaling more than $588,000 from eight financial institutions, including Tukwilabased Boeing Employees’ Federal Credit Union (BECU), Bank of America, and Chase Bank. He obtained cash advances at Seattlearea casinos and made purchases at a Tacoma jewelry story and several Chicago-area merchants.

Another co-conspirator, Phone Phommavanh, also pleaded guilty to bank

fraud.

According to records filed in the case, Pham and Nguyen defrauded banks by running up credit card and cash advance debts that they never intended to repay. The men used the identities of others — many of whom participated in the scheme — to access credit cards used to purchase jewelry and other consumer goods or for cash advances at

casinos. The men then took a share of the proceeds derived from those transactions.

Pham also loaned money to people in his Vietnamese community and then used threats of violence to try to collect the debts. In October 2012, Pham arranged for one of his cohorts to be armed with a semi-automatic pistol when they confronted an associate of someone owing Pham $10,000. The men

claimed the victim was responsible for the other man’s debt. They surrounded him at the Macau Casino in Tukwila and demanded the money while brandishing the gun. In a second instance, also in October 2012, Pham tried to collect a $2,000 debt by threatening to send people to the victim’s home to “cut him.”

The case was investigated by ICE’s Homeland Security Investigation. 

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■ COMMUNITY CALENDAR FRI 4/11 WHAT: Hawaiian Heritage with George Kahumoku Jr. & Stephen Inglis with Waipuna WHERE: Broadway Center for Performing Arts, 901 Broadway, Tacoma WHEN: 7:30 p.m.

COST: $19, $29, $39 INFO: 253-591-5890

SAT 4/12 WHAT: “Love and the ‘Modern Girl’ in Japan, 1920s–30s” lecture by Michiko Suzuki WHERE: Seattle Asian Art Museum, 1400 E. Prospect St., Seattle WHEN: 9:30–11 a.m.

COST: $5–$10 INFO: 206-654-3100 WHAT: Interim CDA’s 45th Anniversary, “Sapphire Gala: Celebrate a Legacy of Justice”

WHERE: Seattle Marriott Waterfront, 2100 Alaskan Way, Seattle WHEN: 5:30 p.m.

COST: $150/individual, $1,500/ table INFO: www.interimicda.org, 206-624-1802, ext. 10 WHAT: Spring Lu’au – a Polynesion experience with dinner and show WHERE: Dinner at Wheelock Student Center at University of Puget Sound, N. Lawrence & N. 15th; show at Memorial Fieldhouse, N. 11th St. & Union Ave. WHEN: Dinner 6–8 p.m., show 8 p.m.

COST: $9–$23 INFO: 253-879-6013 WHAT: Kollaboration talent showcase WHERE: Meydenbauer Center, 11100 6th St., Bellevue

■ briefly

Photo by George Liu/NWAW

Loans available for businesses impacted by Chinatown fire

The Hudson Building on Dec. 24

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is offering low-interest working capital federal loans to small businesses economically impacted by the Hudson Building fire in Seattle’s International District. The SBA declared the fire a disaster following an April 1 request from Gov. Jay Inslee.

“These loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills that can’t be paid because of the disaster’s impact,” said SBA’s Seattle District Director Nancy Porzio.

Eligibility is based on the financial impact of the disaster only and not on any actual property damage. The loans have an interest rate of 4 percent for small businesses and 2.625 percent for private, nonprofit organizations with terms up to 30 years. The loan is restricted to small businesses without the financial ability to offset the adverse impact without hardship.

Applicants may apply online at disasterloan. sba.gov/ela or by calling SBA at 800-659-2955 or e-mailing disastercustomerservice@sba.gov.

Individuals who are deaf or hard-of-hearing may call 800-877-8339.  For free, personalized counseling to help affected small business owners in their recovery, call 509-358-7765.

The filing deadline to return economic injury applications is Jan. 5, 2015.

WHEN: 7 p.m.

COST: $15–$20 INFO: 413-367-8368

SAT 4/12 & SUN 4/13 WHAT: International Children’s Friendship Festival WHERE: Seattle Center Fisher Pavillion WHEN: 11 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.

COST: Free INFO: 206-684-7200, www. seattlecenter.com

SUN 4/13 WHAT: Nikkei Leadership Series event with Joby Shimomura, chief of staff for Gov. Jay Inslee WHERE: Nagomi Tea House, 519 Sixth Ave. S., Seattle WHEN: 12:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

COST: Free (or $12 with lunch) RSVP: 206-623-0100

MON 4/14 WHAT: 2014 China-U.S. panel to promote non-governmental partnerships between China and U.S. WHERE: Evans School of Public Affairs at UW WHEN: 2:30–4:30 p.m.

INFO: 517-960-3717

TUE 4/15 WHAT: SE Asian Community Advisory council meeting WHERE: 7101 38th Ave. S., Seattle WHEN: 5:30–7 p.m.

INFO: 206-684-7712, linh. thach@seattle.gov

WED 4/23 WHAT: Minding the Gap – A forum on gender pay equity WHERE: UW, Kane Hall, Walker-Ames Room, Seattle

WHEN: 3:30–5 p.m.

RSVP: wagegap.bpt.me INFO: womens@uw.edu, 206685-1090 WHAT: Seattle City Councilmember Bruce Harrell to fete 37th LD Senate Candidate Louis Watanabe WHERE: Watercress Vietnamese Bistro, 5041 Rainier Ave. S. #108, Seattle WHEN: 6-8 p.m.

INFO: 206-325-3091, louiswatanabe.com

THU 4/24 WHAT: Lecture by Julie Otsuka, author of “When the Emperor was Divine,” with Q&A afterwards WHERE: Green River Community College, 12401 S.E. 320th St., Auburn WHEN: 7:30–8:45 p.m.

COST: $10

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■ education Students, educators honored at Diversity Makes a Difference dinner

Five Puget Sound high school students won $1,000 scholarships for their efforts promoting diversity in their communities. They were honored at a dinner and presentation on March 28 at the New Hong Kong restaurant.

From left, Seattle School Board member Harium Martin-Morris and Michelle Sievers of Pemco (an event sponsor) stand next to Holy Names senior Sara “Cha Cha” Sawyer, Roosevelt High School senior Nicola LaGuardia, Squalicum High School senior Ana Cervantes, Olympia High School senior Adora Nwankwo, and Shorecrest senior Julie Nguyen. They are also flanked by Seattle School Board member Sharon Peaslee, Kau Kau owner Richard Chang (a sponsor), and keynote speaker David Santillanes Jr.

The Diversity Makes a Difference scholarship dinner at New Hong Kong restaurant on March 28, hosted by Northwest Asian Weekly Foundation, was, in essence, a celebration for students, educators, family, and the community.

This event marks the 19th year since the scholarship program, called Diversity

Makes a Difference, was first established.

Its mission is to honor outstanding high school students in the Puget Sound region who have worked to promote diversity in their community. This year, the Foundation considered more than 60 exceptional students who were winners in their own rights.

The dinner was emceed by Tina Young, who serves as the director of multicultural services at Seattle Central Community

THAI FOOD WEEK April 9-15, 2014

See www.uwajimaya.com for all our Thai Week specials, recipes including Phad Thai with Chicken, upcoming store events and more!

Photos by George Liu/NWAW

By Alia Marsha Northwest Asian Weekly

Finalists each won a $200 scholarship. From left, Chief Sealth High School senior Austin Moungchanh, Mountlake Terrace High School senior Erick Yanzon, Edmonds-Woodway High School senior Courtney Gu, Yin Kam Chan Eng (a sponsor), Highline High School sophomore Asosa Sailiai, Issaquah High School senior Caleb Walin, Chief Sealth principal Aida Fraser-Hammer, and Chief Sealth counselor Jol Raymond, who was honored for his 36 years of service.

Friends, family, school teachers and administrators, and community members enjoyed a tasty meal during the Diversity Makes a Difference celebration at the New Hong Kong restaurant.

College. She delivered a balance of lighthearted jokes and learning points for students, parents, and educators to take home. Another memorable part of the evening was the Q&A session between David Santillanes Jr., president of D. Lark, Inc., a franchisee of McDonald’s, and Northwest Asian Weekly publisher Assunta Ng. This lively and humorous exchange, which had the whole room breaking out into laughter, stressed the importance of learning and perseverance.

The dinner also honored Jol Raymond, a counselor at Chief Sealth International High School, for his 36 years of service.

Raymond nominated several students for the scholarship. He was introduced

by Chief Sealth’s principal Aida FraserHammer, who stressed the importance of the event.

“It’s very important not only for young people, but for us older people because it helps us to appreciate the things we treasure, such as diversity and education,” she said. “It’s good for young people because they see that we depend on them to carry on efforts that have started, but not only that, we want to inspire them to do more than we have ever done.”

One of the $1,000 scholarship winners, Adora Nwankwo, echoed this statement.

The Olympia High School senior cited activists such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Gloria Steinem as her major inspirations for her involvement in the community.

Nwankwo is one of the 22 members of the Legislative Youth Advisory Council, representing the youth of Washington in the State Legislature.

Sarah “Cha Cha” Sawyer, another scholarship winner, said she learned a lot from her fellow nominees and the event itself.

“Everyone has so much potential — the youth today, the generation today — there’s so much empowerment in our generation about fighting for justice and equal rights,” said the Holy Names Academy senior, who is involved with her school’s Social Justice Committee and the Multi-Cultural Student Union, in which she is a leader.

“When you find young people who stand up tall and say, ‘I believe in this and I will take the step to do what I think is right,’ then we have to support them,” said FraserHammer. “This also makes us proud as educators.”

The winners, judged on their essays detailing why diversity is important, were Sara “Cha Cha” Sawyer from Holy Names Academy, Ana Cervantes of Squalicum High School, Adora Nwankwo of Olympia High School, Nicola LaGuardia of Roosevelt High School, and Julie Nguyen of Shorecrest High School. Each received a $1,000 scholarship from the Northwest Asian Weekly Foundation.

Finalists, who each will receive $200 scholarships, were Austin Moungchanh of Chief Sealth High School, Erick Yanzon of Mountlake Terrace High School, Courtney Gu of Edmonds-Woodway High School, Asosa Sailiai of Highline High School, and Caleb Walin of Issaquah High School.  Alia Marsha can be reached at info@ nwasianweekly.com.

32 YEARS YOUR VOICE

■ arts & entertainment

APRIL 12 – APRIL 18, 2014

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Looking back at March

The latest fall, rise, & situations in pop culture

Young Lee, co-founder of Pinkberry

Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez

Eddie Huang

By Vivian Nguyen Northwest Asian Weekly

With so many witnesses around — including a few who had to hold Lee back from harming Bolding any further — it’s no surprise that Lee received the sentence he did.

Perhaps spending the better part of the next decade in jail will give him some time to mull over the consequences of taking a tire iron to someone’s head.

Emmy wins come from his music direction for an animated children’s show, while his Grammy and Tony awards were given for his work on the hit Broadway musicals “Avenue Q” and “The Book of Mormon.”

This is truly an amazing feat. Congrats, Lopez!

This month’s column stars a disgraced co-founder and a celebrated EGOT winner. Wondering who or what an EGOT is? Read on to find out the answer, along with updates from this month’s entertainment headlines!

Pinkberry CEO gets jail time

Young Lee, co-founder of the popular frozen yogurt chain Pinkberry, was recently sentenced to seven years behind bars for an altercation involving a homeless man in 2011. Lee helped to establish Pinkberry in 2005, but is no longer involved with the company.

The incident occurred when Lee sat in his SUV at a freeway off-ramp in June 2011. Donald Bolding, a homeless man who was panhandling on the side of the road, flashed a sexually explicit tattoo to the people in Lee’s car, which included Lee’s fiancée. Lee felt deeply disrespected by this act, and returned to the same spot later to repeatedly hit Bolding with a tire iron. Bolding sustained a broken forearm and cuts to the head.

Presenting the first Filipino American Academy Award winner!

During last month’s Academy Awards, songwriters Robert Lopez and Kristen Anderson-Lopez won an Oscar for the Best Original Song category with “Let It Go,” their hit single from the Disney animated movie “Frozen.” Lopez is of partial Filipino descent, making him the first Filipino American to win an Oscar.

But, perhaps more importantly, this also makes Lopez the first Filipino American to earn a spot in the incredibly elite club of EGOT holders. This club is made up of people who have won all four major annual American entertainment awards: the Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony. It’s the Grand Slam of achievements in the entertainment biz, and only 11 other people have ever accomplished it. Lopez’s

Sitcom castings for next season

There has been a ton of buzz lately about Eddie Huang’s popular autobiography “Fresh Off the Boat.” Huang is Taiwanese American, and a well-known restaurateur, chef, and food personality. Huang’s memoirs cover his early life and rise in the food celebrity scene in New York, with a special focus on Asian culture and cuisine against his childhood backdrops of Washington, D.C. and Orlando, Fla. Huang’s autobiography is being adapted for a sitcom, and will feature a rare feat seen in television shows. It will feature an all-Asian starring cast! That’s right, dear readers.

When was the last time you recall seeing a network show starring an Asian American family? (The answer to that {see A-POP cont’d on page 14}

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The two big chapters thumbed up, giving Seattle’s project weight and momentum.

Dan then traveled all over the United States, including Los Angeles, Oakland, Stockton, Sacramento, Chicago, New York, and Philadelphia to ask for donations on behalf of Seattle. The funds collected were from other chapters, as well as individuals, just because they share the same last name.

Faye said he was moved by the whole experience. One chapter said it actually had saved up $5,000 to repair its own building, but donated to Seattle instead.

{LEE cont’d from page 1} around the country.

This story is about how a small family association raised the money quickly, to fulfill their dreams. It also shows a glimpse of Chinese American history — how overseas Chinese, facing discrimination, bonded together to help each another and make things happen because of their common origins, roots, surnames, and geographical identity in China. This is not something that outsiders can fathom. Yet it has been going on for the past two centuries in America.

The Lees raised $230,000 in one year — much faster than anyone expected — which qualified them for a mortgage from the bank to pay for the rest. This is not just the SLFA’s project. Lees in other parts of America have embraced it and contributed immensely to ensure that it would be successful.

The building

The building has a lot of potential, and sits on a big lot with commercial and residential tenants on the top and ground floors, as well as a small apartment in its backyard.

After the Lees performed the ribboncutting ceremony during the day, they attended SLFA’s Lunar New Year banquet in the evening at the House of Hong restaurant.

Nearly 50 Lees from San Francisco, New York, New England, Portland, Washington D. C., Los Angeles, Philadelphia, Chicago, Oakland, Sacramento, and Stockton attended the day’s event.

They were happy with the building, said Faye.

To make its grand opening special, the Portland chapter suggested inviting the four beauty queens, who happen to be Lees, too.

It showcased the Lees’ accomplishments, including the younger generation. The four Lees instantly became the main attraction for guests. They were Miss Chinatown USA 2013, Leah Li of Mercer Island, who flew from New York; Crystal Lee of California, Miss California; Carmen Lee, Miss Chinese Chamber of Commerce USA 2014; and Karen Li, Miss Chinatown USA 2014.

Yes, Faye and the Portland chapter paid for their airfare. 

Traditional lion and dragon dances entertained all the Lees and their friends.

Others did it, we can do it too!

Nationwide, many of the Lee Family Association chapters have their own buildings. These family associations were founded decades and even centuries ago to ensure Chinese immigrants have a place to socialize, support one another, and have a permanent address for when they work in different parts of the country.

“It’s an investment for the future generations of Lees, Woos, Chins, etc.” said Connie So, who teaches Asian American Studies at the University of Washington.

“For many Chinese, something tangible like property will always have value. For my family, like many other early southern Chinese in the late 19th to mid-20th centuries, the family associations provided support in an unfamiliar and often hostile country. “Historically and even now, family associations provide financial and emotional assistance. It is part of our history as Chinese Americans and demonstrates our concern for our fellow clan/family members.”

Although Portland has a much smaller Chinese population, Portland Lee Family Association acquired its own property more than 20 years ago. With more than 1,000 members, San Francisco is not only the headquarters of the national Lee Family Association, it also owns five properties.

Seattle LFA was inspired by its sister chapters. It dreamed about having its own headquarters nine years ago, according to Faye Lee Hong, president of the Seattle chapter.

“If we don’t have a permanent address, our family association will eventually die,” said Faye. He has seen what happened to other family associations, such as the Locke Family Association, which closed down after it lost its lease.

“We need to have a place for activities for our members, like Christmas and the Moon Cake Festival party,” he said. “The permanent headquarters can attract new members to come.”

Faye said the association “has found a place it can afford, and, most important, it produces income to cover expenses. It’s no use to find a big and fancy place, which is costly and we can’t afford.”

When the SLFA decided to have its own building two years ago, the association knew that the local chapter wouldn’t be able to raise all the funds needed. SLFA has over 100 families, and about 25 active members, according to Faye. SLFA also has a 97-year history and is looking forward to celebrating its centennial three years from now.

Locally, SLFA is also one of the smallest Chinese family associations in Seattle, compared to big ones such as Gee How Oak Tin (Chin, Yuen, Woo), Soo Yuen Tong (Louie, Fong, Kuang), and Eng Family Association, which all have their own buildings.

The right leadership

SLFA members knew that Faye would be the ideal person in the association who

The celebration was made more beautiful with the attendance of, from left, Karen Li, Carmen Lee, Faye Hong, Crystal Lee, and Leah Li.

could fundraise effectively for its cause. As one of the most respected leaders in the Chinese community, Faye, known as “Mr. Nice,” had fundraised successfully for many important projects and causes for the Chinese community, including the Seattle Chinese Gate on South King Street, which was built in 2008.

In addition, Faye has supported many community charities and helped individuals and other leaders’ programs for decades.

Now that he is heading the Lee’s building project, other local Chinese community organizations and individuals have quickly reciprocated with donations.

Immediately, he set an example by donating $10,000 himself to show his commitment. Like other family associations, Faye knew that he had to enlist help from Lees who live outside Seattle.

York chapter often follows, Dan said.

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Dan B. Lee, who was president of San Francisco’s national Lee Family Association last year, recalled what he told Faye two years ago. “Give us a plan and we will go from there.”

Dan and other Lees quickly took the plan and mobilized 16 other chapters to help.

San Francisco’s LFA donated over $80,000 ($50,000 from the headquarters and over $30,000 from individuals).

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32 YEARS YOUR VOICE

APRIL 12 – APRIL 18, 2014

11

OPINION

■ editorial

Overturn ‘Korematsu’ for good

The United States Supreme Court has an opportunity to settle once and for all the illegality of the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II. It has the opportunity to help ensure that it never happens again.

The issue is being attached to a lawsuit that was filed against the Obama Administration and members of Congress by journalist Chris Hedges and others in January 2012. Hedges v. Obama challenges the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which permits the U.S. government to indefinitely detain people “who are part of or substantially support Al Qaeda, the Taliban, or associated forces engaged in hostilities against the United States.” What’s that got to do with the Japanese internment? Read on.

The NDAA wording seems harmless enough, but Hedges felt it was vague and could include journalists, activists, and human rights workers who may simply be exercising their

■ briefly

First Amendment rights. Might a journalist who interviews a critic of the Obama Administration be seen as giving support to terrorists or “associated forces?”

Hedges and his co-plaintiffs focus on the NDAA provision that states “existing law and authorities relating to the detention of United States citizens” would not be affected by the law. He raises the example of the Korematsu v. United States ruling in 1944, which remains among the “existing law and authorities” relating to military detention of U.S. citizens.

Although Fred Korematsu’s conviction was finally overturned in 1983, the constitutionality of the detention of Japanese Americans was not. Despite the Department of Justice’s 2011 concession that the decision was “in error,” it remains an “existing law and authority.”

The ruling needs to be removed, because, as Supreme

Court Justice Anontin Scalia told University of Hawaii law students a few weeks ago, referring to the internment, “You are kidding yourself if you think the same thing will not happen again.”

Unfortunately, the Obama Administration is on the wrong side of history. Responding last week to a letter from Hedges sent to the Solicitor General, in which he asks, “Should Korematsu be overruled?” the Administration “chose not to support a years-long campaign to get the Court to repudiate one of its most heavily criticized opinions from the World War II era,” reported Lyle Denniston at SCOTUSblog, a website that extensively covers the U.S. Supreme Court.

Hedges v. Obama is not specifically about Korematsu v.

United States. But now that Chris Hedges brought it up, the Court has an opportunity, as well as a moral obligation, to overturn it. 

Groups partner up to Beautify our Chinatown help undocumented APIs enroll in DACA NAAAP-Seattle will be forming a team of volunteers to join the beautification of the Chinatown-International District on April 26. Comcast and more than a dozen nonprofits will host the event, which will include pressure washing sidewalks,

The Asian Pacific Islander Community Leadership Foundation (ACLF) and 21 Progress announced a partnership to help undocumented Asian Pacific Islander youth connect with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival (DACA) resources.

“In Washington state, more than 4,000 API eligible youth have yet to apply for DACA,” said Sharon Maeda, executive director of 21 Progress. “We need to reach all undocumented youth, especially APIs, to make them aware and help them take advantage of this opportunity.”

The ACLF and 21 Progress’ project will identify barriers and resources within the Asian Pacific Islander community and develop a strategic outreach plan to connect

with DACA eligible API individuals and community organizations.

The project is part of ACLF’s Community Leaders Program (CLP), a six-month leadership program that offers training and mentorship to individuals with an interest and passion in social justice and leadership roles in their community. The CLP participants attend bi-monthly workshops and network with community leaders and complete a group project that benefits and contributes to a healthy and vibrant API community.  For more information, contact Nicole Keenan at 206-473-0324 or aclfnw@ aclfnorthwest.org.

painting over graffiti, getting dirty in the Danny Woo Garden, and more. For questions or to join the NAAAP team, e-mail your name and T-shirt size to hang. chen@naaapseattle.org. Also indicate if you are under the age of 18. 

Classes available for Vietnamese immigrants

Helping Link is a non-profit Vietnamese organization that helps Vietnamese immigrants adjust to American culture with tutoring and adult classes in ESL, citizenship preparation, and basic computer skills. Classes cost $25 and are held at 1032 S. Jackson St. Suite C, in Seattle.

Workplace conversation skills classes are Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6–8 p.m.

Digital imaging classes are Mondays, 6–8 p.m.

Basic computer classes are Wednesdays, 6–8 p.m.

Introduction to iPad classes are Thursdays, 1:30–3:30 p.m.

After school youth tutoring is on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, 3–6 p.m. 

Assunta Ng

Account Executives

Sue Misao

rebecca@nwasianweekly.com

Han Bui

kelly@nwasianweekly.com

Publisher assunta@nwasianweekly.com Editor editor@nwasianweekly.com Layout Editor/Webmaster han@nwasianweekly.com

For more information, or to register for classes, call 206-568-5160 or visit www. helpinglink.org.

Rebecca Ip Kelly Liao John Liu

john@nwasianweekly.com

Stacy Nguyen Editorial Consultant

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 $30 for 52 weeks of the NW Asian Weekly and $25 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.

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{FUKUSHIMA cont’d from page 1} Research has not shown the children to be in clear danger from exposure to low-dose radiation, but mistrust of the authorities remains high. The Hashimoto family, and the parents of seven other children, accepted the offer.

“I didn’t really believe things are as safe as the government is telling us,” said Hashimoto, who lives in Koriyama, about 20 miles west of the 20-kilometer no-go zone. “We made our decision with her future, 10 years and 20 years later, in mind.”

The eight students — seven in junior high school and one in elementary school — began their new lives this month, with the beginning of Japan’s school year.

They live in a rented house with bunk beds and live-in caretakers.

The project is the brainchild of Mayor Akira Sugenoya, a medical doctor who performed more than 100 thyroid cancer surgeries in neighboring Belarus after the 1986 Chernobyl catastrophe.

Divisive decision For those outside the largely off-limits 20-kilometer zone, taking such a drastic step is relatively rare. The Hashimoto family went back and forth.

A wide range of views on the risks of radiation has divided both their family and entire communities.

Hashimoto was nervous about speaking to a reporter, because raising questions can get one branded as a troublemaker. She requested that her daughter remain anonymous for fear of a backlash.

Like many near the Fukushima plant, Hashimoto

routinely measured the radioactivity in her neighborhood.

Some spots were a bit high, in a gray area where science is divided about the longtime effects. Children are far more vulnerable to radiation than adults.

The girl’s grandparents and her college-age brother find the fretting about radiation ridiculous. But for the 12-year-old herself, the sticking point was her 5-year-old younger brother, who cannot be a part of the program, which starts at third grade.

The girl said she was worried that she wouldn’t be there to watch over the boy, making sure he wore masks and didn’t eat local food.

Then the girl started getting nosebleeds and growing pale and lethargic. That may have had nothing to do with radiation, but it made Hashimoto decide to get her out, and her husband relented.

“The low-dose radiation is continuing. There is no precedent. We don’t know what effect that will have on our children,” Hashimoto said.

Cancer diagnoses So far, 33 children have been diagnosed with thyroid cancer in Fukushima in the last three years among 270,000 checked, 18 years old and under. Thyroid cancer among children is rare at a handful in a million.

Some experts say the higher cases are merely a result of more rigorous checking, and that the surge in thyroid cancer did not surface until four or five years after Chernobyl.

The U.N. Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation has concluded that cancer rates won’t increase in a discernible way, estimating the risk for thyroid cancer

to be for “fewer than 1,000 children.”

“The bottom line is, no one knows for sure. What we do know is that the cases of cancer are up, and so naturally we are worried,” said Hiroshi Ueki, a former Fukushima resident, who moved with his wife and two children, and currently oversees the nonprofit Matsumoto project. It relies heavily on donations. The parents pay 30,000 yen ($300) a month to cover basic living expenses.

A recent government study by the National Center for Child Health and Development found one in four children from the prefectures struck by the 2011 disaster, including Fukushima, suffered depression, anxiety, and other mental problems.

Kokoro Kamiyama, 13, the first child to sign on to the Matsumoto project, was prone to skipping school when she was in Fukushima, which her mother believes was a sign of stress from worrying about radiation.

Living through the 2011 disaster made her decide to be a doctor when she grows up, she says in a soft voice.

She is happy she can run around outdoors in Matsumoto without wearing a mask.

“The air feels so clean here,” Kamiyama said. “I love playing badminton. And tag.”

Last week, Kamiyama looked very much at home as she sat in the gymnasium decorated with flowers at Aida Junior High School for a school opening ceremony.

So did Hashimoto’s daughter, though she had a rough start in Matsumoto. She was in constant tears for the first few days, but by Friday, she said she had made lots of great friends.

Those friends are mostly her fellow boarders, from Fukushima. They’re sticking together. 

{STING cont’d from page 5} card benefits, sometimes offering up crack cocaine in lieu of cash. After investigating Minh Tam, MCTF served warrants at the business and recovered more than $424,000 in cash.

MCTF detectives also learned of a woman who was well known around 12th and Jackson for buying EBT cards off the street. After making contact with the woman and offering to sell her EBT cards, the woman took undercover officers to several Asian grocery stores near 12th and Jackson, according to the SPD, where she used the undercover agents’ EBT cards to buy cartfuls of meat, seafood, and large bags of rice, which she loaded into her minivan.

Detectives also noticed that store employees helped the woman skirt EBT regulations, allowing her to use multiple cards at a time, and breaking up large purchases of food to avoid raising any flags in the EBT system.

Detectives continued investigating the woman and followed her in the middle of the night, as she pulled her van into an alleyway and sold $1,000 worth of frozen shrimp she had just purchased through EBT fraud. When detectives later arrested her, she had about twenty 50-pound bags of rice in her van. “Her minivan was weighed down so much that it was sitting three inches off the ground,” Det. Jakobsen said. Police also served a warrant on her home, where they seized $3,000 in cash.

The woman and suspects associated with the Minh Tam Market are now facing fraud charges as a result of the operation, said the SPD. Officials from USDA and the Department Social and Health Services are also investigating the businesses involved in the EBT card schemes, and the businesses could lose their ability to accept EBT card payments, according to police.

“We’re going to go through 12th and Jackson and arrest all those dealers, get them off the street,” said Det. Jakobsen, adding that graffiti and debris will be cleaned up and more officers will be patrolling the area.

We’re going to take that area back for the community,” Det. Jakobsen said.

“This operation will be good for the International District community,” said Captain Davis. “We’re not just doing enforcement in the neighborhood, we’re looking at the environment as well. The community is a big part of this.” 

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32 YEARS YOUR VOICE

■ astrology

APRIL 12 – APRIL 18, 2014

13

For the week of April 12–April 18, 2014

By Sun Lee Chang Rat — Who wants to come back to a big mess? If you have time, try to clean up as much as you can before you go.

Dragon — It’s time to shed the old ideas that are holding you back. Once you do, the true burden of what you have been carrying will be revealed.

Monkey — You mind has been made up for quite a while, but there is a good reason to consider changing it, if you are willing.

Ox — Success is available to some by luck and to others from hard work. However, sustaining it for the long term will require a little bit of both.

Snake — The next time you are in a mood to complain, look for something to be grateful for instead. Your outlook will change very quickly.

Rooster — There are instances when it is better to be slow and cautious. However, you could miss a great opportunity if you do this all the time.

Tiger — The next time you feel yourself getting upset, stop and take a deep breath. Chances are that things are not as bad as you think.

Horse — You were hoping that peeling through the layers would reveal the answers you have been seeking, but it has only given you more questions.

Dog — Though you appear strong on the outside, that doesn’t mean you always feel that way on the inside.

It’s alright to let your guard down once in a while.

Rabbit — Have you been thinking a lot about an old issue that has come up again? Unlike last time, face it with both eyes open.

Goat — Before you rush to judgment, put yourself in the other person’s shoes. The choices to be made might not be as clear as you initially thought.

Pig — At this point, you consider yourself set in your ways. Have some fun by breaking out of the mold that you have created.

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 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.

{KAWASUMI cont’d from page 1} Women’s Soccer League, but decided to sign with Seattle because it was “familiar,” she said, noting that the climate and environment are similar to her home in Kobe, Japan.

“Last year, I played against this team (Reign) and they gave me an offer,” Kawasumi said. “They had hope for me.” Although there were multiple offers on the table, she said “instinct” brought her to Seattle.

General manager and head coach Laura Harvey told the Seattle Times that Naho was “a worldclass talent who will add a different dimension to our front line in the coming season. She is a proven winner in both league and international play and will bring that important mentality and experience

to our club.”

“I’m very happy to be a member of Seattle Reign FC,” Kawasumi told the Seattle Times. “Though it’s my first time to live and play in the U.S., I will adapt myself to my new life as soon as possible. I’ll try to do my best for the victory of Seattle Reign FC. You can count on my play.”

Kawasumi modeled the Reign’s new black uniforms, which the team will wear at all their away games. The team will wear its white uniforms for home games.

“I’ve never worn black uniforms,” Kawasumi said. “They are very cool.”  Jason Cruz can be nwasianweekly.com.

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question would be “never”.)

This is big stuff. Though the decision to apparently rename the sitcom to “Far East Orlando” is somewhat problematic with its Oriental overtures, I’m still pumped to see the development and progress on this show.

Constance Wu and Randall Park will play Huang’s mother and father, respectively. This will be Wu’s first major starring role to mainstream audiences, while Park may best be known for his recurring role on the hit HBO comedy “Veep” and guest-starring roles in a slew of popular sitcoms. Huang’s teenage counterpart will be played by newcomer Hudson Yang.

The show is currently shooting its pilot. If all goes well and the show gets green lit, it will debut in the fall. Fingers crossed!

Meanwhile, actor John Cho

will star in another ABC pilot titled “Selfie,” which poses to be a modern remake of the classic musical “My Fair Lady.” Korean American Cho has a ton of television and film work under his belt, including the “Star Trek” and “Harold and Kumar” film franchises, in addition to a lead role on the short-lived sitcom “Go On.” “Selfie” will follow a 20-something girl played by Karen Gillan, who watches her reputation fall apart over social media. Cho plays a self-assured marketing expert that helps the girl get her reputation back on track. For those familiar with the musical it’s based on, Cho plays the modern equivalent of Henry Higgins. As a former musical theater geek, I cannot wait to see this modern adaptation play out with Cho. He sounds perfect for the part!  Vivian Nguyen can be reached at info@nwasianweekly.com.

32 YEARS YOUR VOICE

APRIL 12 – APRIL 18, 2014

Congratulations to the Lee Family Association for its building’s grand opening on March 30!

May your Association be strong and thank you for serving the community for so many years! from — Sen. Bob Hasegawa — Rep. Sharon Tomiko Santos — Rep. Cindy Ryu — Betty Lock

Friday, March 28, 2014 at New Hong Kong Restaurant diversity.nwasianweeklyfoundation.org

A special thank you to all those who helped make this happen!

2014 Diversity Makes a Difference nominees

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