VOL 37 NO 26 | JUNE 23 – JUNE 29, 2018 by Northwest Asian Weekly

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

VOL 37 NO 26 JUNE 23 – JUNE 29, 2018

FREE

36 YEARS YOUR VOICE

Local bubble tea shops gear up for plastic straw ban

Photo provided by the King County Oﬃce of Law Enforcement Oversight.

Le family still waiting for justice

From left: Uyen Le, Xuyen Le, Jeﬀrey Campiche, Deu Ho Yuew, and Linda Diem Tran testifed on June 12 before the Metropolitan King County Council’s Law and Justice Committee.

One year since the shooting death of Tommy Le, his family says they are dissatisfied with the investigation into his case. “This past year was one that was terrible,” said the family in statement. “And now, on the anniversary of Tommy's death, all of us feel disappointed with

the lack of resolution from King County." On June 12 — almost exactly one year since the tragedy — the King County Oﬃce of Law Enforcement Oversight (OLEO) released the report titled Transparency and Media Relations in High Profile Police Cases — analyzing how the King County Sheriff ’s Oﬃce (KCSO) releases see LE on 16

OUTSTANDING GRADS » 9

OCEAN’S 8 » 7 A NIGHT AT THE FORBIDDEN CITY. » 8

BLOG » 10

Photo by Han Bui

By Sophia Stephens & Ruth Bayang NORTHWEST ASIAN WEEKLY

By Tiﬀany Ran NORTHWEST ASIAN WEEKLY Local food establishments are making the switch from plastic straws to compostable plastic or paper straws. The local plastic straw ban is part of a larger “Strawless in Seattle” campaign, headed by Lonely Whale to rid oceans and U.S. waste streams of plastic waste. Plastics pollution

poses a growing problem for the environment. It contaminates waterways and local seafood, and causes illness and death in oceanic wildlife, like birds, whales, fish, and more. Beginning July 1, businesses must switch to using compostable plastic or paper straws and cocktail picks. Since 2008, Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) has worked see STRAW BAN on 16

“Public charge” fears

By Sophia Stephens NORTHWEST ASIAN WEEKLY

Over the past several months, the Trump administration has made clear on its intent to make sweeping changes to what is commonly known as “public charge” regulations. The proposed changes could deter immigrant families from accessing public benefits like Medicaid and food stamps. The public charge regulations center around the likelihood that an applicant for a visa or green card will be on public assistance, which is defined as receiving over half of your income from financial forms of assistance, including Supplemental Security income, long-term help through Medicaid, and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families. According to the National Immigration Law Center, current policy allows oﬃcials to consider only two types of public benefits in a public charge determination: cash assistance for income maintenance and institutionalization for long-term care at government expense.

■

charge. Programs that would be under con“Though it is still a proposed rule, this is yet another sideration under the attack from the Trump administration on much more revised law would than just the immigrant population. This is an attack on include the Children’s Health Insurance Prolow-income children, seniors, people with disabilities, gram, the Supplemenand people of color.” tal Nutrition Assis— Sarah Domondon of Children’s Alliance tance Program (food Sarah Domondon stamps), the Low-Income Energy Assis“Though it is still a tance Program, Section 8 housing vouchers, low-income proposed rule, this is yet another attack from the Trump components of the Child Tax Credit, Women, Infants, and administration on much more than just the immigrant Children nutrition assistance programs, and Aff ordable population,” said Sarah Domondon of Children’s Alliance. “This is an attack on low-income children, seniors, people Care Act subsidies. Multiple reports detailed that along with the programs with disabilities, and people of color.” that are now being included in the public charge What is currently being proposed by the Trump administration is an expansion to the regulations, and to the desee PUBLIC CHARGE on 11 termination of an immigrant becoming or being a public

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

asianweekly northwest

36 YEARS

JUNE 23 – JUNE 29, 2018

Hoang is UW Bothell’s 2018 alumna of year

Bellevue teens recognized

Interlake High School students Veenadhari Kollipara and Eshika Saxena received engraved bronze medallions on June 15, for being Distinguished Finalists for Washington in the 2018 Prudential Spirit of Community Awards. Veenadhari, a senior, has spent the past three summers developing a multipurpose drone that can Veenadhari Kollipara help farmers make smarter crop decisions by providing precise, accurate data on soil conditions across their fields. Eshika, a junior, has coordinated a range of opportunities for girls to participate in engaging, hands-on STEM activities through TakeKnowledGe — the nonprofit she founded to address the gender gap she’s experienced as a young woman interested in math and technology.

Eshika Saxena

ECCC event

From left: Paul Mar, incoming Rotary Club president Amy Orr, and Eric Stone.

by KING 5’s Lori Matsukawa and raised $30,000.  Photo by Assunta Ng

The University of Washington (UW) Bothell named entrepreneur Taylor Hoang its 2018 Distinguished Alumna of the Year. The award recognizes UW Bothell alumni who have shown distinguished professional achievements or outstanding community service. Hoang, who received a business degree in 2002, heads the Pho Cyclo Taylor Hoang restaurant group and directs the Ethnic Business Coalition in Seattle. Born in Vietnam, Hoang started a mortgage brokerage at age 21 that catered to ethnic immigrants. Seven years later, she saw an opportunity to bring Vietnamese comfort food to broader American appetites. She currently has five restaurants and a catering company in the Pho Cyclo restaurant group. 

The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards, conducted by Prudential Financial in partnership with the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP), represent the United States’ largest youth recognition program based exclusively on volunteer community service. 

Photo by Assunta Ng

■ NAMES IN THE NEWS

2018 Edwin M. Lee Community Leadership Award Photo provided by Kathy Chinn.

Luis Navarro, Port of Seattle Director of Social Responsibility, Martha Lee, ECCC president, and Steve Metruck, Port of Seattle executive director.

The Ethnic Chamber of Commerce Coalition and the Port of Seattle held an evening of sharing, learning, and networking on June 6. Steve Metruck, executive director of the Port of Seattle, was the keynote speaker. Attendees learned about shared interests and heard from Port of Seattle representatives on small business contracting, airport dining, and retail and workforce development. 

Seattle International District Rotary Club dinner

The Seattle International District Rotary Club held its annual dinner on June 10, at the Northwest African American Museum. The event, “Engage and Change the World,” was keynoted

From left: Michelle Ma, Nghi Quan, and Callie Chin.

Michelle Ma, Nghi Quan, and Callie Chinn each received awards of $1,000 at the Franklin High School Senior Awards Night on June 13. This was the inaugural presentation of the Edwin M. Lee Community Leadership Award by The Lee Family. Ed Lee, the first Asian American mayor of San Francisco, passed away last December. A Franklin alumnus, Lee inspired each student to “live your life boldly,” and “keep the doors open for others.” The three award recipients embodied these traits based on their academic and community achievements, and their goals for the future. 

asianweekly northwest

YOUR VOICE

■ COMMUNITY NEWS

JUNE 23 – JUNE 29, 2018

Shuko Hara dies at 103 By Staﬀ NORTHWEST ASIAN WEEKLY

The mother of former King County Assessor Lloyd Hara, Shuko Hara, a former Seattleite, died in Hockessin, Del. on June 10. She was 103 years old. Born January 31, 1915 in Spokane, Wash. to Mantaro and Hide Yoshihara, Shuko grew up in

Shuko Hara

Montana and graduated from the University of Washington (UW) with top honors. In 1933, she married pharmacist James Hara. They operated Hara Drug Co. at 14th and Yesler until their forced internment in 1942. The family returned in 1955 and settled in Northeast Seattle. Shuko worked as a pharmacist for Swedish and Virginia Mason hospitals, and ended her career at the UW School of Pharmacy. She was active in the University Congregational Church as a Sunday school teacher and women’s club leader. Retirement in 1982 gave her more time for world travel,

bonsai, ikebana, gardening, cooking, playing bridge and hanafuda, reading, and cheering on the Seahawks and Huskies. Shuko is survived by son Lloyd Hara, daughters Mitzi Sakata and Marsha DeFeyter, six grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by brothers Ken and Teruo, sister Yukiye, and by James, her husband of 50 years. A private memorial service is planned at a future date. Remembrances may be made to UW School of Pharmacy or a charity of your choice. 

■ NATIONAL NEWS

Oregon woman pleads U.S. prepares new guilty to visa fraud, tariﬀs on Chinese forced labor imports in retaliation

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — An Oregon woman accused of fraudulently obtaining visas to bring cooks to the U.S. for cheap labor at two restaurants in Washington state has pleaded guilty. The Oregonian/OregonLive reports 59-year-old Tanya Jumroon, also known as Thunyarax Phatanakit Jumroon, a naturalized citizen originally from Thailand — pleaded guilty in Portland federal court on June 14 to charges of forced labor, visa fraud conspiracy and filing a false tax return.

Prosecutors say Tanya Jumroon and her former husband Paul Jumroon brought four cooks from Thailand to work at Curry in a Hurry in Lake Oswego and Teriyaki Thai in Ridgefield between 2011 and 2014. According to authorities, the couple used various threats to force the cooks to work 12-hour days for minimal pay. Paul Jumroon pleaded guilty in February to the same charges. Paul Jumroon and Tanya Jumroon are both scheduled to be sentenced in October. 

碧近山駕駛學校

Beacon Hill Driving School Beacon BeaconHill HillDriving DrivingSchool School

www.beaconhilldrivingschool.com www.beaconhilldrivingschool.com www.beaconhilldrivingschool.com

☆Knowledge test and Drive Test now available ☆Knowledge ☆Knowledgetest testand andDrive DriveTest Testnow nowavailable available at our school by Walk-In/Appointment. atatour ourschool schoolby byWalk-In/Appointment. Walk-In/Appointment. ☆Thirty years experience, ☆Thirty ☆Thirtyyears yearsexperience, experience, Knowledge Test Knowledge KnowledgeTest Test Drive Test Drive DriveTest Test Knowledge Test Test now available available in English, Knowledge Knowledge Testnow now availableininEnglish, English, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Russian, Russian, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Russian, Spanish && Vietnamese Vietnamese Lanuages. Spanish Spanish & VietnameseLanuages. Lanuages.

We can help you with: We Wecan canhelp helpyou youwith: with: Kirk Wong Kirk KirkWong Wong

Steve Wong Joanne Klein Steve SteveWong Wong

Mastering the basic fundamentals of •••Mastering Masteringthe thebasic basicfundamentals fundamentalsof of safe driving safe safedriving driving Reducing and minimizing accidents •••Reducing Reducingand andminimizing minimizingaccidents accidents Learning all mechanical and safety •••Learning Learningall allmechanical mechanicaland andsafety safety procedures procedures procedures Smooth turning and maneuvering •••Smooth Smoothturning turningand andmaneuvering maneuvering • Parking • •Parking Parking • Passing the knowledge test and • •Passing Passingthe theknowledge knowledgetest testand and driving test with ease driving drivingtest testwith withease ease all of our vehicles are equipped with Dual all allofofour ourvehicles vehiclesare areequipped equippedwith withDual Dual Steering Wheels, Dual Brakes/Gas petals, Steering Wheels, Dual Brakes/Gas Steering Wheels, Dual Brakes/Gaspetals, petals, and Instructor Mirror. and andInstructor InstructorMirror. Mirror.

Office: (206) 725-2077 Office: Office: (206) (206) 725-2077 725-2077

Owner Kirk Kirk Wong Wong (206)579-5010 (206)579-5010 Steve Steve Wong Wong (206)794-1343 (206)794-1343 Owner Owner Kirk Wong (206)579-5010 Steve Wong (206)794-1343 Owner KirkKlein Wong(206)579-5006 (206)579-5010 Joanne Klein(206)579-5006 (206)579-5006 Joanne Peter Klein Joanne Klein (206)579-5006 Peter Klein (206)579-5006 Joanne Klein (206)579-5006 Peter Klein (206)579-5006 Peter Klein (206)579-5006 May Wong (206)725-2077 Stanley Ho Ho (206)423-6678 Stanley Stanley Ho(206)423-6678 (206)423-6678

2341 15th Ave. S., Seattle, WA 98144 2341 234115th 15thAve. Ave.S., S.,Seattle, Seattle,WA WA 98144 98144

Office Hours 9:30am-6pm, Monday-Saturday (Sunday by appointment only) Office OfficeHours Hours9:30am-6pm, 9:30am-6pm,Monday-Saturday Monday-Saturday(Sunday (Sundaybybyappointment appointmentonly) only)

By JEFF KAROUB and ZEKE MILLER ASSOCIATED PRESS WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump directed the U.S. Trade Representative to prepare new tariffs on $200 billion in Chinese imports as the two nations moved closer to a potential trade war. The tariffs, which Trump wants set at a 10 percent rate, would be the latest round of punitive measures in an escalating dispute over the large trade imbalance between

the two countries. Trump recently ordered tariffs on $50 billion in Chinese goods in retaliation for what the U.S. said is intellectual property theft. The tariffs were quickly matched by China on U.S. exports. “China apparently has no intention of changing its unfair practices related to the acquisition of American intellectual property and technology,’’ Trump said in a statement on June 18, announcing the new action. “Rather than altering those see TARIFFS on 11

KING COUNTY NOTICE TO BIDDERS Sealed bids will be received for C01204C17, Maury Island Aquatic Reserve Armoring Removal; by the King County Procurement and Payables Section, 3rd Floor, 401 Fifth Avenue, Seattle, WA 98104, until 1:30 PM on 6/26/18. Late bids will not be accepted. Scope of Work: The project consists of selective demolition of residential structures and bulkheads on up to eight non-contiguous parcels on Vashon and Maury Islands. Work may include but will not be limited to: removal of site structures and improvements, abatement of regulated materials and other work necessary to complete the Work as specified and shown in the Contract Documents. Many project elements will require construction within the Fish window August 1 through September 30. Construction access to parcels is restricted as shown on the contract drawings. Recognition of EPA Funding: this project has been funded wholly or in part by the United States Environmental Protection Agency under assistance agreement 13-15 DFW from NEP and 13-15 DFW from MSP to Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (“WDFW”). The contents of this document do not necessarily reflect the views and policies of the environmental protection agency, nor does mention of trade names or commercial products constitute endorsement or recommendation for use. Estimated contract price: Base bid: $370,000, Alternate A: $65,000, Alternate B: $85,000 There is a 5% minimum Apprentice Utilization Requirement on this contract. There is a Fair-share Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) Goal: 10% of the Contract Price. There is a Fair-share Women Business Enterprise (WBE) Goal: 6% of the Contract Price. Complete Invitation to Bid Documents, including all project details, specifications, and contact information are available on our web page at: https://procurement.kingcounty.gov/procurement_ovr/default.aspx

asianweekly northwest

JUNE 23 – JUNE 29, 2018

36 YEARS

■ NATIONAL NEWS

Chinese immigrant with American family fears deportation

NEW YORK (AP) — A Chinese immigrant with a young American family in New York fears deportation after being arrested when he showed up for a green card interview. Xiu Qing You, a 39-year-old Queens resident, was being held on June 16 in a New Jersey facility run by the federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency. Also being held there is an Ecuadorian pizza shop employee arrested two weeks ago while making a delivery to an Army garrison in Brooklyn. You applied for asylum after he first arrived in the United States 18 years ago, saying he feared being persecuted for his Catholic faith if he returned to China, according to the

New York Daily News. When asylum was denied, he was issued a deportation order in 2002 with which he didn’t comply. The Trump administration has come down hard on such cases. At home, You has a 4-year-old son and a 6-year-old daughter born in the United States. His wife, Yu Mei Chen, an American citizen, told the Daily News that she’s been in touch with her husband by phone, and “I have never seen him cry in my life; he misses the kids so much.’’ You had applied for permanent residency in 2015, and

Oﬃcials: Vietnamese man dies in ICE custody in Arizona PHOENIX (AP) — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement oﬃcials say a Vietnamese man has died in custody in Arizona while awaiting deportation. ICE said that 47-yearold Huy Chi Tran died on June 12 at Banner Casa Grande Medical Center, where he was hospitalized for a week after being found unresponsive at the Eloy Detention Center. The cause of death is pending the results of an autopsy.

Tran is the seventh detainee to die in ICE custody during fiscal year 2018 that began Oct. 1, 2017. He entered the U.S. as a legal permanent resident but was being deported because of a criminal conviction for aggravated assault. Tran was placed in ICE custody May 25 after serving his sentence and was hospitalized June 5 after falling ill. 

Ex-coal baron takes swipe at “China people” in political ad

the couple went for an interview on May 23, the day he was arrested. The couple, who run a nail salon in Connecticut, are represented by the Yee Ling Poon Law Oﬃces in Manhattan. There was no response to calls for comment on June 16. Yee Ling Poon reportedly has asked for a stay of deportation, while also seeking to reopen his asylum claim. ICE oﬃcials also were not immediately available. The Ecuadorian pizza delivery worker, Pablo Villavicencio, was granted a stay of deportation last week, pending further court proceedings. 

School to be named after Asian immigrant activist MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. (AP) — At a divisive time for U.S. immigration policies, a California school board has decided to name a new elementary school after an awardwinning journalist who disclosed in 2011 that he had been living in the U.S. illegally. The Mountain View Whisman School District board voted on June 14 to name the as-yet-unopened school after Jose Antonio Vargas, bypassing Steve Jobs and other technology giants with ties to the San Francisco Bay Area’s high-tech Silicon Valley. Jose Antonio Vargas “We wanted to pick someone who embodied the values of what you can do with an education, as Jose does,’’ school board president Laura Blakely told the San Francisco Chronicle.

By JOHN RABY and JONATHAN MATTISE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Don Blankenship

CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) — An ex-coal executive who’s running for U.S. Senate after serving a one-year prison sentence has escalated his barrage on Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, taking swipes at “China people’’ and calling McConnell

The move comes as the Trump administration faces a growing backlash from human-rights advocates over its immigration practices. Nearly 2,000 minors have been separated from their families at the U.S. border over a six-week period during a crackdown on illegal crossings, the Associated Press found. U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions also announced that asylum protections will no longer be offered to victims of domestic violence and gang violence. Vargas emigrated with his family from the Philippines to the U.S. when he was 12 years old. The Chronicle was among the places he worked in his early career. Vargas went on to earn a Pulitzer Prize for journalism and then took on the role of immigration activist. He revealed his undocumented status in a New York Times Magazine essay in 2011. “As a proud product of the Bay Area’s public school see VARGAS on 13

“Cocaine Mitch’’ in a new ad. Former Massey Energy CEO Don Blankenship, a Republican, is seeking the West Virginia seat now held by Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin. But his ad disparages McConnell, the Republican leader from Kentucky. Blankenship has already called McConnell “Cocaine Mitch’’ in a previous ad, and has said in a radio interview that McConnell’s father-in-law is “a wealthy China person and there’s a lot of connections to some of the brass, if you see POLITICAL AD on 13

Help make health care available for all.

UPICK We pick cherries. www.thompsonsfarm.com

Chellsea

Be a supporter by becoming a patient.

Quality care. With or without insurance. Birth control • Wellness exams • Cancer screenings • and more

asianweekly northwest

YOUR VOICE

JUNE 23 – JUNE 29, 2018

■ WORLD NEWS

23-foot-long python swallows Indonesian woman

JAKARTA, Indonesia (AP) — A 23-foot-long python has swallowed a woman in central Indonesia, a village oﬃcial. The victim, 54-year-old Wa Tiba, went missing while checking her vegetable garden near her village on Muna island in Southeast Sulawesi province on the evening of June 14, according to the village chief, Faris. The following day, her family went to look for her at the garden but found only her belongings, including sandals and a flashlight, said Faris, who uses a single name. The family and villagers launched a search for the woman, and found the snake with a bloated belly about 50

yards from where her belongings were found. The villagers killed the snake and carried it to the village. “When they cut open the snake’s belly they found Tiba’s body still intact with all her clothes,’’ Faris said. “She was swallowed first from her head.’’ Videos posted on some websites showed villagers slicing open the python’s carcass to reveal the woman’s body. Faris said the victim’s garden, about half a mile from her house, is located in a rocky area with caves and cliffs believed to contain many snakes. Reticulated pythons, which are widespread in Indonesia

and other parts of Southeast Asia, grab onto their prey with dozens of sharp curved teeth and then squeeze it to death before swallowing it whole. Reports of humans being killed by pythons are extremely rare. In the wild they are known to eat monkeys, pigs and other mammals. It was the second python attack on a human in Indonesia since March last year, when a 25-year-old man was swallowed whole by a python in West Sulawesi province. 

■ NATIONAL NEWS Hmong woman to compete for Mrs. Minnesota title By S. M. CHAVEY ST. PAUL PIONEER PRESS

OAKDALE, Minn. (AP) — As a child, Kellie Chauvin was teased, bullied and the only one of her friends who was not invited to

participate in a local parade, all because other children called her ugly. The teasing never ended, but Chauvin eventually learned to overlook the shallow criticisms. see MRS. MINNESOTA on 12

Kellie Chauvin

California valedictorian veers oﬀ script, has mic silenced

PETALUMA, Calif. (AP) — Petaluma High School valedictorian Lulabel Seitz never had a chance to drop the mic at her graduation address. School oﬃcials silenced the sound system after she veered off a preapproved speech. Seitz, 17, whose grandparents immigrated from the Philippines, said

‘Candid’ Jackie Chan memoir coming in November NEW YORK (AP) — Jackie Chan is ready to share more stories about his amazing life and career. The star of blockbusters such as “Rush Hour’’ and “Kung Fu Panda’’ has a memoir coming out in November. Gallery Books told The Associated Press on June 14 that “Never Grow Up’’ is a “candid’’ account of everything from his youth with the China Drama Academy to his “numerous’’ near-death experiences on and off camera. The 64-year-old Chan will also write about making movies in Hong Kong and Hollywood and of his imperfections as a family man, according to Gallery, a Simon & Schuster imprint. Chan’s other films include a remake of “The Karate Kid’’ and the “Police Story’’ series. His previous books include “I Am Jackie Chan: My Life in Action,’’ a memoir published in 1998. 

later that she was “unfairly cut off ’’ for trying to address the silencing of victims of sexual assault, something she said she experienced on the campus. see VALEDICTORIAN on 13

Lulabel Seitz

www.buckleylaw.net d

S�� O�� 675 S. Lane St. Suite 300 Sea�le, WA 98104 Oﬃce: (206) 622-1100 Toll free: (800) 404-6200 Fax: (206) 622-0688

Our law firm has recovered over $200 million for clients

T�� O�� Wells Fargo Plaza Suite 1400 Tacoma, WA 98402 (appointment only)

Our Attorneys & Staff Proudly Serving the Community

 Auto accidents  Back & neck injuries  Brain damage  Wrongful Death  Permanent Disability  Pedestrian Accidents  Quadriplegia/Paraplegia

 Slip & fall  Product Liability  Con�ngent fees (no recovery, no fee, costs only)  Same day appointments  Before & a�er work appointments available  Free ini�al consulta�on  Home & hospital visits available

Member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum Selected as Super Lawyer Selected as Top 100 Trial Lawyers in the United States Member of Several Bar Associations

asianweekly northwest

JUNE 23 – JUNE 29, 2018

36 YEARS

■ COMMUNITY CALENDAR JUN 21

HAPPY HOUR FOOD WALK Seattle’s Chinatown ID 4 p.m.

22 SEATTLE HER PRIDE PARTY Hard Rock Cafe, Seattle 9 p.m. TRANS PRIDE SEATTLE 2018 Cal Anderson Park, Seattle 5 p.m. SEATTLE STORM VS. INDIANA FEVER KeyArena, Seattle 7 p.m.

23 2018 YUKATA SALE JCCCW 1414 S. Weller St., Seattle 11 a.m. CID SUMMER JAMBOREE Seattle’s ChinatownInternational District 4 p.m.

24 THE SHANGHAI PEARL PRESENTS, “A NIGHT AT THE FORBIDDEN CITY” 6 p.m. $25-$150 nightatforbiddencity.bpt.me PRIDEFEST 2018 Seattle Center 12 p.m.

JUL

525 S. Weller St., Seattle 2 p.m. kinokuniya.com, 206-587-2477

Seattle Buddhist Temple 1427 S. Main St., Seattle 4 p.m.

SEATTLE TAIWANESE AMERICAN FILM FESTIVAL 2018 UW Kane Hall Walker-Ames Room seataﬀ.org

THAI SILK KING DOCUMENTARY FILM, “WHO KILLED JIM THOMPSON” Skyline Retirement Center, 725 Ninth Ave., Seattle 2 p.m. $15-$25 friendsofasianart.org

US-CHINA WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP FORUM Davis Wright Tremaine 1201 Third Ave., Ste. 2200, Seattle 4 p.m. wscrc.org

AUG

5-8

THROUGH JULY 1

MINIDOKA PILGRIMAGE Twin Falls, Idaho minidokapilgrimage.org

TAIWANESE AMERICAN FILM FESTIVAL UW, Walker-Ames Room, Kane Hall

TAIWANESE AMERICAN FILM FESTIVAL SIFF Cinema Uptown June 29 at 6 p.m. June 30 at 11:30 a.m. July 1 at 12:55 p.m. siﬀ.net LIVE2DANCE PRESENTS DESI DETOUR Newport High School Bellevue 6 p.m. UP BEAT ON JACKSON PRESENTS THE WORLD FAMOUS TOTAL EXPERIENCE GOSPEL CHOIR FEATURING PASTOR PAT WRIGHT Ernestine Anderson Place 2010 S. Jackson St., Seattle 7 p.m. lihi.org, 206-957-8067 ACRS’ 2018 WALK FOR RICE Seward Park, Seattle 8 a.m. walkforrice.org

PING PONG TOURNAMENTS SUMMER 2018 Hing Hay Park Register onsite at 1 p.m.

13 VOLUNTEER WITH GOODWILL TO KEEP THE NEIGHBORHOOD CLEAN 700 Dearborn Pl. S., Seattle 1 p.m. signup.com/go/ADxThhP volunteer@seattlegoodwill.org 206-860-5732

5-15 SEATTLE INTERNATIONAL BUTOH FESTIVAL 2018: AWAKENINGS Various times and locations Please check the website daipanbutoh.com

14 SAMOA CULTURAL WEEK Mt. Tahoma School Stadium 4634 S. 74th St., Tacoma 10 a.m. apcc96.org

6 PING PONG TOURNAMENTS SUMMER 2018 Hing Hay Park Register onsite at 1 p.m.

Water Lantern Festival Boxcar Park, 615 13th St., Everett 4 p.m. waterlanternfestival.com

14 & 15

FRIENDS OF JAPAN GALA Meydenbauer Center 6 p.m. bit.ly/2sm36TR

DRAGON FEST 2018 12 p.m. Seattle’s Chinatown ID $3 food walk

TALK AND LIVE DRAWING WITH NOLEN LEE, CREATOR OF PUNCHING PANDAS Kinokuniya Bookstore

21 & 22

4&5 THE POWELL STREET FESTIVAL, THE LARGEST JAPANESE CANADIAN FESTIVAL IN THE COUNTRY Oppenheimer Park 400 Block, Powell Street, Vancouver, B.C. 11:30 a.m. powellstreetfestival.com

17 VOLUNTEER WITH GOODWILL TO KEEP THE NEIGHBORHOOD CLEAN 700 Dearborn Pl. S., Seattle 1 p.m. signup.com/go/ADxThhP volunteer@seattlegoodwill.org 206-860-5732 ________________________ EVERY THIRD TUESDAY OF EACH MONTH

PUBLIC SAFETY MEETING Various locations around the district, contact Sonny Nguyen at 206-838-8718 3 p.m.

86TH BON ODORI

View the solution on page 14

ASSUNTA NG

Account Executives

JOHN LIU

rebecca@nwasianweekly.com

RUTH BAYANG

kelly@nwasianweekly.com

Publisher assunta@nwasianweekly.com Associate Publisher john@nwasianweekly.com Editor editor@nwasianweekly.com

HAN BUI

Layout & Web Editor han@nwasianweekly.com

REBECCA IP KELLY LIAO JOHN LIU

john@nwasianweekly.com

GEORGE HIRA

ghira@nwasianweekly.com

The only weekly English-language newspaper serving Washington’s Asian community. The NW Asian Weekly has one simple goal: “To empower the Asian community.” The Editorial Board reserves the right to reject any advertisement, letter or article. Subscriptions cost $40 for 52 weeks of the NW Asian Weekly and $30 for 52 weeks of the Seattle Chinese Post. The NW Asian Weekly owns the copyright for all its content. All rights reserved. No part of this paper may be reprinted without permission. 412 Maynard Ave. S., Seattle, WA 98104 • t. 206.223.5559 info@nwasianweekly.com • ads@nwasianweekly.com • www.nwasianweekly.com

asianweekly northwest

YOUR VOICE

■ AT THE MOVIES

JUNE 23 – JUNE 29, 2018

Ocean’s 8: Even with all the glitz and glamor and beautiful clothes, it’s still a little boring

By Stacy Nguyen NORTHWEST ASIAN WEEKLY

How do you earn $150 million in one night? Gather your best, most talented, and most diverse group of gal pals together and steal a diamond necklace, duh. “Ocean’s 8” is a continuation or spin-off of the Steven Soderbergh’s “Ocean’s” franchise. This latest installment centers around Debbie Ocean (Sandra Bullock), the younger sister of Danny Ocean (who does not appear in this installment, though he does get mentioned quite a bit). At the beginning of the movie, Debbie is leaving prison after a five year, eight month stint due to a fraud scheme she was framed for by her ex, Claude Becker (Richard Armitage). Debbie doesn’t even wait two seconds before she reverts back to a life of white collar crime. She enlists the help of her ride or die partner, Lou (Cate Blanchett), and together, they plan to steal the Toussaint, a $150 million diamond necklace. They enlist the talents of Amita (Mindy Kaling), a jewelry expert; Tammy (Sarah Paulson), a profiteer; Constance (Awkwafina), a pickpocket; Nine Ball/Leslie (Rihanna), a tech genius; and Rose Weil (Helena Bonham Carter). Their plan is to steal the necklace at New York’s annual, star-studded Met Gala, while the necklace is worn by Daphne Kluger (Anne Hathaway), a celebrity and actor. I found this film to be really glamorous and fun to look at. The visual difference, clothing-wise, between the male franchise and this movie is that the wardrobe is stunning and not dull as hell. As great as George Clooney looks wearing a tux, it’s still just a tux. In “Ocean’s 8,” there are just so many gorgeous gowns, so many awesome pant suits, so many different made up faces, and a lot of hairstyles.

I really appreciate this because a lot of female heist movies in the past lack this sense of aﬄuence and luxury. They have typically been about down on their luck women who steal money out of desperation or because of some misplaced altruism — for example, see the Queen Latifahled film, “Set it Off,” a classic. Also, see the Queen Latifahled film, “Mad Money,” which is not good at all. “Ocean’s 8” deviates from that well-worn formula. The stakes don’t feel all that grave or urgent — and that’s great because I think we’re at the point where we don’t need our fictional female anti-heroes to have deeply “feminine” motives in order to be driven to a life of crime. Sometimes people become white collar criminals because it’s fun and

you get to hang out with your friends all day. Amita (Kaling) signs up for the heist because she doesn’t want to live with her mom anymore. Tammy (Paulson) participates because she’s just really great at her “job,” and she is a little bored of her suburban life. While I found the low-stakes motivation in characterizations to be super charming, the low-stakes movie plot was bothersome. At no point in the film did I worry that these women were going to get caught. I was never worried that they were going to jail. I wasn’t worried that friendships were going to get ripped apart and ruined see OCEAN’S 8 on 14

Your Future is Calling Start your Triton Journey at edcc.edu/getstarted

asianweekly northwest

36 YEARS

JUNE 23 – JUNE 29, 2018

■ ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

On June 24 at 6 p.m., the doors will open at the Theatre Off Jackson for a show that promises to unite attendees and performers of the past and present in an extravaganza of music, dancing, acrobatics, magic, and theatre — A Night at the Forbidden City. The show is based on the variety shows that had their heyday in the United States between the late 1930s and the early 1960s. It is a joint production of Theatre Off Jackson and The Shanghai Pearl Presents, and for the latter, represented by Jenny Ku (aka The Shanghai Pearl), it is a tribute of love, respect, and hope. During the Golden Age of the supper club — the age of Frank Sinatra and Ginger Rogers — Asian American performers found some of their first U.S. showbiz gigs in the world of these clubs. The clubs were segregated (think, The Cotton Club), and a brisk business cropped up in places such as San Francisco’s Chinatown, where the original Forbidden City nightclub flourished. In the style of a variety show or cabaret, Asian American performers of diverse talents entertained a largely white audience. Due to San Francisco having the largest Chinatown in the United States, and for other social, economic, and political reasons, themes and costuming were Chinese in style. For better or for worse, these venues gave Asian American performers a chance to show their stuff, and many who participated look back upon the era with nostalgia. Yet today, most of the public does not recall this fragment of Asian American history. Where did everyone go? Ku took it upon herself to find out. What she found was the Grant Avenue Follies, a group of Asian American women performers from the original Forbidden City nightclub, who today continue to perform around the country. These women, some in their 80s, signify a strong thread of Asian American showbiz history in the United States, a history that has long been, as Ku describes, “whitewashed.” For that reason, as well as the sheer enjoyment of their performance, Ku endeavored to bring them together on June 24 with a younger generation of talented Asian American performers in the same vein — magicians, acrobats, actors, musicians, and dancers — to create an intergenerational experience both on and off the stage. As Ku describes, A Night at the Forbidden City will be “an evening that showcases a few of the many facets of Asian American entertainers … With this show, we get to see our showbiz history, the legacy of those who came before us, the (awesome) present, and a glimpse of our future.” The show is a tribute to the blossoming of Asian American presence on the stage in the United States, as well as a connection to a younger generation of Asian American men and women who are following similar pathways. Ku finds it important to feature a range of ages in the evening’s entertainment, as a way to highlight how, in a youth-obsessed culture, our attention often wanes once a performer grows older. A Night at the Forbidden City reintroduces the public to what we should have already known was there —

Photo courtesy of Jenny Crooks

By Jessica Kai Curry NORTHWEST ASIAN WEEKLY

The Grant Avenue Follies pose with The Shanghai Pearl (far left) during a prior visit to Seattle.

an incredible history of enormous talent — and reminds the public of young people who are today making their mark in the footsteps of an existent tradition, and then some, by adding contemporary styles and issues into their work.

Vivian Tam. Photo courtesy of the artist.

Nash Fung. Photo courtesy of the artist.

In addition to the Grant City Follies, several entertainers from various parts are on the show bill. Seattle represents with Sara Porkolab, activist and performance artist, who will be showing portions of her upcoming play, “Dragon Mama.” She will also be co-emceeing with Ku; Nash Fung, magician, who will wow the audience with sleights of hand interspersed with stories of his heritage; Vivian Tam, aerialista, who

will thrill theatre-goers with graceful feats of daring-do; and Moonyeka, activist and contemporary dancer, who will heighten awareness of our multiculturalism. Many of the entertainers are stopping in Seattle in the midst of busy international schedules. “This is a unique constellation of performers who have come together for this one night only,” Ku emphasizes.

perform a version of the fan dance made famous by Golden Era performer, Noel Toy. Burlesque, from the Italian word “burla,” was originally a vehicle of parody and protest, and only later became the type of evocative dancing we associate with 1800s costume and Las Vegas. For those concerned the genre might be a bit untoward, Ku offers, “This is such a unique and accessible art form — and there’s legitimacy and longevity in it. It’s not some scandalous, shameful thing to secret away. It’s wonderful and magical.” Moves are meant to be enticing, but not to show everything. However, the audience should keep in mind there is an 18+ age restriction to attend the event. The show will be accompanied by Seattle jazz ensemble The Owen Yen Trio. Ku explains that live music would have been part of the original shows, so it is especially fortunate to be able to include live music on this occasion. The Trio will play their own sets in addition to accompanying the other talents with era-appropriate jazz pieces from the 1940s and 1950s. A Night at the Forbidden City is sure to be a night of both misty-eyed nostalgia and wide-eyed delight for everyone involved. The production is scheduled to run approximately 90 minutes, with an intermission. In the style of a variety show, it will be composed of multiple types of performances, not exactly “one story.” Yet Ku says, “You might say that the only ‘one story’ is that there is no ‘one story.’ There is no monolithic Asian American story. Our lives and experiences are multifaceted and multitudinous.” At the Forbidden City nightclub, while many performers were Chinese, there was not one ethnicity of Asians on stage, but an array of individuals placed under one umbrella for practical and dubious reasons. Fast forward to A Night at the Forbidden City, where everyone is privileged to share multiple stories and talents of multiple origins in an exciting whole. This is the past and present coming together on June 24. Who should go to the show? “The show has something for everyone,” says Ku. “Do you like dance? Do you like beautiful costumes? Do you like magic? Do you like the circus? Then this show is for you. But I suppose it might be particularly special for Asian American (and/or immigrant) mothers and daughters, mothers and grandmothers.”  Tickets may be purchased at nightatforbiddencity.brownpapertickets. com. For more information, visit the Theatre Off Jackson website at theatreoffjackson. org. Jessica Kai can be reached at info@northwestasianweekly.com.

Patricia Charms. Photo courtesy of the artist.

Sara Porkolob. Photo Courtesy of the artist.

A burlesque element will also be a part of the evening. Portland-based artists Satira Sin, Hyacinth Lee, and Patricia Charms will entertain with their well-crafted, tantalizing maneuvers. Ku, The Shanghai Pearl, will

The Shangai Pearl performs the famous fan dance. Photo courtesy of Jamie Rand Imaging.

asianweekly northwest

YOUR VOICE

JUNE 23 – JUNE 29, 2018

■ EDUCATION

Outstanding Grads

Photo by Assunta Ng

this summer. He is planning on pursuing both an MBA and MS in Computer Science under Stanford’s joint degree program in the coming years.

Tina Rajabi spoke at the Edmonds Community College commencement ceremony. Andy Khuu

Andy Khuu is a graduating senior at Franklin High School, who is committed to attending Stanford University in the fall. As a student, Andy has been deeply involved with FIRST Robotics, cross-country, swimming, and track throughout all four years of his high school career. With his ambitions and passion for computer science and programming, Andy has interned at both the University of Washington (UW) and the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center. Helping his team go to back-toback World Championships for Robotics as a programmer and driver, Andy is excited to utilize his skills as a intern at Microsoft

Jill Kumasaka

Jill Kumasaka is a top scholar at Franklin High School, National Merit Scholarship qualifier, salutatorian, and 101 scholarathlete. She plans on attending the UW in the fall, majoring in International Studies on the pre-med track, while participating in the honors program. From presiding over Japanese Culture Club to leading yearbook as an editor-in-chief, Jill said high school continuously challenged and refined her

leadership skills. “I will continue to pursue my various passions while at the UW through clubs and organizations,” Jill said. In the future, she hopes to pursue medicine abroad and work with an organization like Doctors Without Borders to provide healthcare to places that need it most. Tina Rajabi began her journey at Edmonds Community College as an English as a Second Language (ESL) student, and eventually tutored other ESL students. Rajabi also works as a teaching assistant in the math department. Rajabi was a semifinalist for the prestigious Jack Kent Cooke Foundation

transfer scholarship, an Edmonds CC Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement (MESA) program member, and a Relationships in Science Education (RISE) program member. She was also one of 10 students chosen from among 325 applicants to attend Seattle University’s Mathematics Early Research (SUMmER) program in 2017. She presented her research at Stanford University in April. At 20, Rajabi will be graduating with her Associate in Science degree with a focus in mathematics. She is anticipating acceptance into the UW’s mathematics program. 

■ ON THE SHELF

Book recommendations: Murder mysteries

By Samantha Pak NORTHWEST ASIAN WEEKLY

Death by Dumpling

By Vivien Chien St. Martin’s Paperbacks, 2018 Now that she is an adult, the last place Lana Lee thought she would end up is back at her family’s Chinese restaurant. But life happened — a bad break-up and dramatic walkout from her job have landed her back where she started and she’s working to put her life back together. Dealing with a mother determined to marry her off is initially the biggest thorn in her side. That quickly changes as their property manager, Mr. Feng, dies as a result of shrimp dumplings from Lana’s family’s restaurant. Everyone on staff knew about Mr. Feng’s allergy, so as people start questioning how it happened, people — including the police — quickly begin to think that it was murder. And the restaurant staff are soon the top suspects. So Lana becomes an amateur detective and works to clear her family and friends’ names. “Dumpling” has all the makings of a great cozy mystery: From a down-on-her-

luck heroine and a cast of multifaceted characters, who will have readers questioning their innocence, to the various red herrings and twists and turns that will

keep readers guessing “whodunnit” till the mystery is revealed. Lana is a strong character who readers can relate to. She’s not perfect — in fact, in

some areas, she’s in a bit of a rut. But she’s trying — like the rest of us. see SHELF on 15

asianweekly northwest

36 YEARS

JUNE 23 – JUNE 29, 2018

■ PUBLISHER’S BLOG

Photos by Rebecca Ip

China-Taiwan tension melts in Seattle’s Chinatown

Recently retired Consul General Luo Linquan and his wife.

Taiwan dinner guests with Taiwan Director General Vincent Yao and Kaohsiung Deputy Mayor Yang Ming-Jou, and U.S. oﬃcials State. Sen. Bob Hasegawa, State Rep. Mia Gregerson, Seattle Deputy Mayor Mike Fong, and the Hon. Brad Owen.

By Assunta Ng NORTHWEST ASIAN WEEKLY

to schmooze both sides. At the House of Hong, the Chinese community organized a dinner of 500, for San Francisco’s Consul General of China Luo Linquan’s retirement after his term of three and a half years. Luo has since left the United States and returned to Beijing. Washington state is one of the states under the jurisdiction of the San Francisco Chinese consul oﬃce. Two blocks away, another Chinese group of 100 welcomed Taiwan Deputy Mayor of Kaohsiung, Yang Ming-Jou, to Seattle at the

While China and Taiwan are at odds with one another globally, Seattle’s Chinatown has quietly orchestrated the two sides into quiet acceptance. On June 10, several Chinese and Taiwan oﬃcials were celebrating in Seattle’s Chinatown, in good spirits — without creating fury or crisis — and local elected oﬃcials crisscrossed from one restaurant to another like a swarm of bees,

Ocean Star Restaurant. Seattle has been Kaohsiung’s sister city for 27 years. The coordination between the events were so much in synch that Washington state oﬃcials could attend both dinners without missing the handshakes, photo opportunities, and lion dances. How did the Chinese community orchestrate both events simultaneously without the Chinese or Taiwan oﬃcials feeling slighted or being upstaged? see BLOG on 15

WEEKLY SPECIALS June 20-26, 2018

Presents the World Famous Total Experience Gospel Choir Featuring Pastor Pat Wright Saturday June 30th 7 - 9 PM

GROCERY

SEAFOOD

Uwajimaya’s Own

CHUKAZANMAI

SUKIYAKI BEEF

Hiyashi Cold Noodles with Sesame Vinegar Dressing or Tsukemen(Spicy Sesame Sauce)

Thinly Sliced

8.99 lb

2.99

“Myojo” (17.98 oz)

HIYASHI CHUKA Cold Noodle with Goma (Sesame) Flavor Dressing

3.49

8.49 lb

2-4 oz. Ideal to Marinate and Bake or Grill. Firm Texture Great for Seafood Tacos or Kabobs. Previously Frozen

Assorted Variety

4.59

6.99 lb

INSTANT GUANGXI SPECIALTY LUOSI RICE NOODLE

2.19

“Shirakiku” (454 g)

“Hoshino” (400 g)

Large & Sweet!

KENT MANGOES

10/$10 Fresh!

LYCHEE

3.88 lb

3.99

“Myojo” (15.50-15.99 oz)

YAKISOBA

with Sauce. Futomen (Thick) Miso or Jumbo

1.99-2.99

2.49

“Toa” (8.82 oz)

Questions? Call 206-957-8067 or email jcastle@lihi.org

PRODUCE

Zaru Udon, Hiyamugi Udon or Somen

Udon or Soba

Up Next: August 4th Hijos de Agueybana Afro-Puerto Rican Roots Music and Dance !

2.29 lb

JYOSHU CHAYA DRIED NOODLE

INAKA DRIED NOODLES

If you want to be engulfed by a good foot tapping, multicultural, heart thumping, soul saving, gospel music extravaganza; you need to take a listen to Pastor Pat Wright and the Total Experience Gospel Choir.

CHICKEN BREASTS

Southern Grown

9.49 lb

TUNA STEAK

“Pulmuone” (2 pk)

“Luo Ba Wang” (280 g)

Boneless and Skinless

ATLANTIC SALMON

Fresh! Farm Raised from Canada. Excellent to Bake, Broil or Pan Fry Fillets Steaks

FRESH COLD NOODLE

Under the direction of founder Pat Wright, the Total Experience Gospel Choir is a well oiled spiritual machine of perpetual movement, having toured and done charitable works locally and across the country and world since 1973, winning over 150 awards. Their beat literally goes on and on.

MEAT

“Myojo” (11.63-12.02 oz)

IBO NO ITO SOMEN

DELI CHA SHU BOW Steamed Bun with BBQ Pork Filling from the Deli Steamer

1.35 ea

3.99

SLICED BBQ PORK

“JFC” (3 lb)

DRIED NOODLE Zarusoba

5.49

Tomoshiraga Somen

4.79

www.uwajimaya.com

Ready to Eat! Sold by the lb. From our Deli Cooler

“Sapporo Ichiban”(3.5-3.6 oz)

INSTANT NOODLE Single

Assorted Variety Case (24 pk)

.59-.69

Seattle & Bellevue Hours Mon.-Sat. 8am -10pm Sun. 9am - 9pm

13.99-15.99

12.99 lb

All Seafood & Produce subject to availability due to changes in season or adverse weather conditions.

A Tradition of Good Taste Since 1928

Renton & Beaverton Hours Open Daily 9 am - 9 pm

To See All of our Weekly Specials, Recipes, Store Events and Announcements, visit www.uwajimaya.com

seattle | bellevue | renton | beaverton | www.uwajimaya.com

asianweekly northwest

YOUR VOICE

JUNE 23 – JUNE 29, 2018

■ EDITORIAL

Personality crisis? Harvard accused of discrimination

A lawsuit has accused Harvard University of discriminating against Asian American applicants by rating them lower than others on traits like positive personality, likeability, courage, kindness, and being widely respected — thus lowering their chances of admission despite having done better than applicants from other racial/ethnic groups on test scores, grades, or extracurriculars. Harvard’s own internal review in 2013 showed that the proportion of Asian American students would rise from the actual 19 percent to 43 percent, if academic achievement was the only factor. After considering preferences for athletes and legacy applicants, the proportion of Asian Americans admitted fell to 31 percent. When extracurricular activities and personal ratings were considered, the percentage of Asian Americans dropped to 26 percent. When a category called “demographic”

was applied, the percentage of Asian Americans fell to roughly 18 percent. “It turns out that the suspicions of Asian American alumni, students, and applicants were right all along,” Students for Fair Admissions said. “Harvard today engages in the same kind of discrimination and stereotyping that it used to justify quotas on Jewish applicants in the 1920s and 1930s.” Edward Blum, a legal strategist who founded Students for Fair Admissions, said his group’s filing “exposes the startling magnitude of Harvard’s discrimination.” Harvard has objected to the group’s use of the 2013 internal study, which was uncovered during discovery. In a statement, the school called the lawsuit an attack on its ability to consider race in admissions, which it says is necessary to gather a racially diverse mix of students. Asian American Coalition for Education (AACE) said it

vehemently denounces Harvard for its systematic and blatant stereotypes and higher admission standards to unduly harm Asian American applicants. “Its proven discriminatory practices and refusal to change constitute a modern-day “Chinese Exclusion Act,” AACE said in a statement. “These unlawful acts are often committed under the politically correct name of diversity, undertaken by reputable institutions like Harvard, simply because Asian Americans are not politically powerful and rarely vocal about the injustices they endure.” AACE also notes that many elite U.S. colleges apply the admission model similar to Harvard’s and unlawfully discriminate against Asian American students. It is illegal and immoral. And it must stop. 

TARIFFS from 3

He said China’s recent claims of “openness and globalization’’ are “a joke.’’ He added that China is a “predatory economic government’’ that is “long overdue in being tackled,’’ matters that include IP theft and Chinese steel and aluminum flooding the U.S. market. “Everyone knows ... China is the main perpetrator,’’ he said. “It’s an unprecedented level of larceny.’’ “Just ask yourself: Would China have allowed America to do to it what China has done to America?’’ he said later. “This is predatory economics 101.’’ The Chinese Embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Pompeo raised the trade issue directly with China earlier this month, when he met in Beijing with President Xi Jinping and others. “I reminded him that’s not fair competition,’’ Pompeo said. President Donald Trump had announced a 25 percent tariff on up to $50 billion in Chinese imports. China is retaliating by raising import duties on $34 billion worth

of American goods, including soybeans, electric cars and whiskey. Trump also has slapped tariffs on steel and aluminum imports from Canada, Mexico and European allies. Wall Street has viewed the escalating trade tensions with wariness, fearful they could strangle the economic growth achieved during Trump’s watch. Gary Cohn, Trump’s former top economic adviser, said that a “tariff battle’’ could result in price inflation and consumer debt — “historic ingredients for an economic slowdown.’’ Pompeo described U.S. actions as “economic diplomacy,’’ which, when done right, strengthens national security and international alliances, he added. “We use American power, economic might and influence as a tool of economic policy,’’ he said. “We do our best to call out unfair economic behaviors as well.’’ In a statement, Trump says he has an “excellent relationship’’ with Xi, “but the United States will no longer be taken advantage of on trade by China and other countries in the world.’’ 

“We are already seeing the harmful effects of the leak of this proposed rule and want to make sure that individuals are well informed of who it does, and doesn’t, apply to,” said Domondon. The New York Times reported in March that immigrants who are hoping for permanent residence are already dropping out of public nutrition programs even before prominent elements of the policy changes are enacted, fearful that participating could threaten their citizenship eligibility or put them at risk for deportation. The rule is still under review at the Oﬃce of Management and Budget, and has not yet been published. However, Washington lawmakers — including Gov. Jay Inslee and Mayor Jenny Durkan — have been taking action to combat the administration. “Our state is home to 455,000 U.S. citizen children with

at least one immigrant parent,” read a statement on the Northwest Health Law Advocates website. A Center on Poverty and Social Policy report found that the proposed changes to the public charge rule would have a disproportionate effect on citizen children of immigrant parents — putting 500,000 more U.S. citizen children at risk of poverty by foregoing non-cash food assistance benefits. Community-based organizations are sharing key facts with clients about the proposed rule to mitigate fears. For more information, go to https://goo.gl/Kz4b75. 

practices, it is now threatening United States companies, workers, and farmers who have done nothing wrong.’’ Trump added: “These tariffs will go into effect if China refuses to change its practices, and also if it insists on going forward with the new tariffs that it has recently announced.’’ Trump said that if China responds to this fresh round of tariffs, then he will move to counter “by pursuing additional tariffs on another $200 billion of goods.’’ Trump’s comments come hours after the top U.S. diplomat accused China of engaging in “predatory economics 101’’ and an “unprecedented level of larceny’’ of intellectual property. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo made the remarks at the Detroit Economic Club as global markets reacted to trade tensions between the U.S. and China. Both nations started putting trade tariffs in motion that are set to take effect July 6.

PUBLIC CHARGE from 1 determination process, specific benefits would also be made exempt from consideration, including “earned” benefits from work, loans, military service, and disaster/emergency assistance. Also excluded are government student loans, in-state tuition, and specific emergency services, such as emergency Medicaid. As it stands, current policy allows immigrants and immigrant candidates to seek healthcare and nutrition assistance without being considered a public charge. However, these alterations to the public charge regulations would not only affect the ability of immigrants and immigrant candidates to seek assistance, but would also apply to the current benefits experienced by legal immigrants and their U.S. citizen spouses and children.

Reach

Washington Impact ads get results!

2 Million Readers

Festivals, Fairs, car shows, resorts and golf courses love the results they get! Inquire at this newspaper or call 360-344-2938 • ads@wnpa.com

Have a story idea that you think would ﬁt perfectly in Northwest Asian Weekly? We want to know about it. Send it to us at info@nwasianweekly.com.

Sophia can be reached at info@nwasianweekly.com.

KING COUNTY REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS ADVERTISEMENT Proposals will be received for E00547E18, Engineering Services Harbor Island Dock for Solid Waste Division; by the King County Procurement and Payables Section, 3rd Floor, 401 Fifth Avenue, Seattle, WA 98104, until 12:00 PM on June 27, 2018. Total Estimated Price: $675,000 There is a 7% minimum requirement for King County Certiﬁed Small Contractor and Supplier (SCS) ﬁrms on this contract. All solicitation documents are published at: https:// procurement.kingcounty.gov/procurement_ovr/login. aspx?ReturnUrl=%2fprocurement_ovr%2fdefault.aspx Contact: Alice Phoenix, 206-263-9311, alice.phoenix@ kingcounty.gov

asianweekly northwest

JUNE 23 – JUNE 29, 2018

36 YEARS

■ NATIONAL NEWS All 5 ﬁrst ladies speak out on family separations at border Laura Bush likened it to the Japanese internment By LEANNE ITALIE ASSOCIATED PRESS NEW YORK (AP) — All four former first ladies have joined the current one, Melania Trump, in an unusual united political front expressing horror at children separated from their parents at the U.S.-Mexico border. As Michelle Obama put it on Twitter, in support of Laura Bush: “Sometimes truth transcends party.’’ Mrs. Obama, a Democrat, wrote those words as she retweeted Mrs. Bush, a Republican, who first spoke out in an opinion piece on June 17 in The Laura Bush Washington Post. “I live in a border state. I appreciate the need to enforce and protect our international boundaries, but this zero-tolerance policy is cruel. It is immoral. And it breaks my heart,’’ Mrs. Bush said on Twitter as she shared her column. Bush called it “eerily reminiscent” of the U.S. internment of Americans of Japanese descent during World War II. Hillary Clinton, speaking at a women’s event in New York, said the Trump administration’s “zero tolerance’’ policy that has separated children and parents at the southern border was a “moral and humanitarian crisis.’’ Their outrage and call for reforms come after nearly 2,000 Hillary Clinton minors were separated from MRS. MINNESOTA from 5 Now 43 years old, the Oakdale woman is competing to be Mrs. Minnesota America 2018, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reported. “I just knew that for myself, I was better than what people made me out to be,’’ Chauvin said. “I know it took me a long time to realize that, but it’s never too late.’’ She will face off against seven others on June 23 in Bloomington. If she wins, she’ll be the first “Mrs. Hmong,’’ as she calls it, to score a victory in the pageant nationally. One other Hmong woman from Minnesota is also competing this year. Chauvin was born in Laos in 1974 during a time of war. In 1977, her family fled to safety in Thailand, where they lived in a refugee camp. Chauvin still remembers the challenges of being a refugee. Their only possessions were the ones they could carry on their backs. She watched people die from illness. To this day, she avoids eating oatmeal because it takes her back to her days at the camp. After three years there, Chauvin and her family moved to Eau Claire, Wisconsin, It was a cold October and Chauvin had to wear a boy’s jacket because that’s all that was available. Even in America, Chauvin said, she felt like she was still in a refugee camp. Ten years old, she was placed in a kindergarten class, where she knew less about reading and writing English than her younger classmates. “They say ‘land of the free,’ but I still didn’t feel like we were free,’’ Chauvin said. “We didn’t know English. My parents didn’t want us leaving the house because they didn’t trust the world. You land into this brand-new world and you don’t know what to expect, and so we were always kept inside.’’ Chauvin’s parents found her a husband when she was 17 years old and they married before she turned 18. She hardly knew him. “As a Hmong woman, if you’re not married by 18 then your parents think that nobody will marry you,’’ Chauvin said. The couple had two children, and Chauvin said she

adults in the six weeks following Attorney General Jeff Sessions’ announcement of the zero-tolerance approach to illegal border crossings. In perhaps the most surprising response from a first lady, a statement from Mrs. Trump’s oﬃce said she “hates’’ to see families separated at the border. Her spokeswoman, Stephanie Grisham, said, “She believes we need to be a country that follows all laws, but also a country that governs with heart.’’ But the statement didn’t reference the “no tolerance’’ policy and instead said Mrs. Trump hoped “both sides of the aisle’’ can change immigration laws. The senior among the first ladies, Rosalynn Carter, spoke through The Carter Center: “The practice and policy today of removing children from their parents’ care at our border with Mexico is disgraceful and a shame to our country.’’ Mrs. Carter led a delegation to Thailand in 1979 for a firsthand look at the plight of Cambodian and Laotian refugees, recalling today the “trauma of parents and children separated by circumstances beyond their control.’’ Mrs. Clinton, former first lady, secretary of state and Democratic presidential nominee, said at an awards lunch for the Women’s Forum of New York that the separations are not required by law and are not grounded in any religion. The latter refers to Sessions quoting a Bible verse to defend the administration’s policy. “We are a better country than one that tears families apart,’’ she said. Anita McBride, executive-in-residence at the Center for Congressional and Presidential Studies at American University in Washington and a former chief of staff for Mrs. Bush, said these first ladies are well-known for standing up for women’s issues. “This issue certainly has tugged at people on all sides

of the aisle, whether they’re elected oﬃcials or private citizens. Sometimes in our lives, in our country, in our history, people who have a high profile and an opportunity to speak out do so,’’ she said. Carl Anthony, a first ladies historian and author in Los Angeles, said it’s rare but not unprecedented for a majority of all living first ladies to weigh in similarly on political and catastrophic events. Eleanor Roosevelt actually contradicted her husband on the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II and on European refugees during the same war. “The fact that Mrs. Trump even issued a statement on the immigration policy is in and of itself worth raising an eyebrow or two because it’s so unusual for first ladies to voice an opinion that could suggest a departure with at least the administration, if not their husband,’’ Anthony said Asked whether there was any daylight between the president and first lady on the issue of family separation, White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders chose to instead address the administration’s dispute with Democrats. “I think we’ve made it abundantly clear that the daylight exists between Democrats and Congress and their ability to change this law,’’ she said. And as for the criticism from Laura Bush, Sanders said that while “we share the concern’’ Mrs. Bush voiced about children, Sanders pointed blame back at the Bush administration, saying, “Frankly, this law was actually signed into effect in 2008 under her husband’s leadership.’’ In 2008, President George W. Bush focused on the problem of minors crossing the border without their parents and signed a law unanimously passed by Congress that called for such “unaccompanied minors’’ to be released into the “least restrictive setting.’’ 

fought to make the marriage work. But after 10 years in an abusive relationship, she says, she decided to divorce and move to Minnesota. Her former husband died shortly after. Chauvin earned her associate’s degree in radiology and took an internship in the emergency room of Hennepin County Medical Center in Minneapolis. The internship turned into a full-time position, and she stayed for 13 years. It was at the hospital that she met her current husband, Derek Chauvin. The Minneapolis police oﬃcer spotted his future wife when he brought someone in for a health check before an arrest. After taking the suspect to jail, Derek Chauvin returned and asked her out. “Under all that uniform, he’s just a softie,’’ Kellie Chauvin said. “He’s such a gentleman. He still opens the door for me, still puts my coat on for me. After my divorce, I had a list of must-haves if I were ever to be in a relationship, and he fit all of them.’’ They’ve been married for eight years. During that time, Chauvin resigned from the hospital, went to Kaplan University for residential real estate and began working as a Realtor with Re/Max Results. Five years ago, Chauvin said, she wouldn’t have considered signing up for a pageant. So when longtime friend Sophia Xiong-Yang approached Chauvin with the idea in January, she was surprised to hear Chauvin agree. “She is such a go-getter,’’ Xiong-Yang said. “I feel that it takes someone who is very caring, compassionate and has a lot of empathy for others to be able to do the things she does. It would be amazing if she makes Minnesota history by being the first Hmong woman to win the title Mrs. Minnesota.’’ The pageant is split into four parts: a private interview with the judges, a public interview, a swimsuit round and an evening-gown round. Chauvin has worked with a coach to prepare for the interviews but is most nervous about walking in 5 1/2-inch heels. “If I fall flat on my face, at least somebody will remember,’’ Chauvin said. Her evening gown is navy blue with a smattering of sparkles — an homage to police oﬃcers. “When I saw the dress, it was almost like it was in a movie where the girl sees a dress,’’ Chauvin said. “I was

immediately drawn to it.’’ Contestants in Mrs. Minnesota America are not required to have an oﬃcial platform, but they are expected to be invested in their communities. That’s easy for Chauvin, who said, “My hobby is just helping people.’’ And she donates to and volunteers with Hmong Empowering Women, a nonprofit dedicated to helping Hmong women who have recently arrived in the United States find jobs, child care and a community. “I dedicate myself to animals and children and women,’’ Chauvin said. “That’s my passion. It doesn’t feel like work to me.’’ “They’re looking for a contestant who can speak to anyone and be approachable to other people,’’ said pageant director Carl Schway. “Personality . vibrance, ability to speak and articulate. It’s almost like going to a job interview and trying to win that job.’’ Married women who are at least 18 years old and who are United States and Minnesota citizens are eligible to compete. The winner will advance to the Mrs. America pageant, which will be held in Las Vegas in August. The winner of Mrs. America can compete in Mrs. World. Winners typically make several public appearances, speaking at events and continuing to give back to their communities. 

Dentures For You Do you have dentures problem?

We do full and partial denture reline and repair with affordable price.

(206) 568-0903

3230 Beacon Ave. S., Unite B Seattle, WA 98144

Sandy Zhang

asianweekly northwest

YOUR VOICE

JUNE 23 – JUNE 29, 2018

■ ASTROLOGY

Predictions and advice for the week of June 23–29, 2018 By Sun Lee Chang

Rat — Where others see only what is on the surface, you are able to recognize the true value that lies beneath.

Dragon — The curves in the road could be diﬃcult to maneuver, but it should be manageable with a little bit of patience and concentration.

Monkey — If you don’t understand what is going on, then it behooves you to ask as many questions as you need to.

Ox — Although you have a solid plan, don’t be afraid to deviate from it when it makes sense to do so.

Snake — Do you keep making the same mistake? Look carefully at the pattern that is emerging and you should be able to pinpoint what needs to change.

Rooster — While some might scurry away from a challenge, you are intrigued by the puzzle and the prospect of solving it.

Tiger — Does it seem like you are going against the current? As long as you keep moving forward, the tide will soon turn in the other direction. Rabbit — Tying up loose ends as you encounter them should save you from having to deal with an even bigger problem down the line.

Horse — You would rather stand out as opposed to blend in. The desire to be diﬀerent could lead you into some interesting situations. Goat — Have recent developments been a cause for concern? Instead of waiting on the sidelines, this is the time to get involved.

Dog — Is someone trying to sway your opinion away from what you are actually thinking? Trust your instincts on this one. Pig — Do you suddenly ﬁnd yourself in a swirl of activity? Even though there is a lot going on around you, stay focused on what you are doing.

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, 2016 Rooster 1921, 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017 Dog 1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018 Pig 1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007

*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.

VARGAS from 4

POLITICAL AD from 4

system, I am overwhelmed by this totally unexpected and deeply meaningful honor,’’ Vargas said in a statement. The school will open in August 2019. Blakely said Vargas’ name was initially floated about a year ago. “He’s been the face of the American dream for so many students who came here as children, and really grew up as Americans without having citizenship,’’ she said. 

will, in China.’’ Blankenship’s new ad says McConnell has created jobs for “China people’’ and charges that his “China family’’ has given him millions of dollars. McConnell’s wife is U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao, who was born in Taiwan. Blankenship says the ad is in response to false, negative ads that McConnell’s “swamp people’’ are running against him. Donald Trump Jr. has since echoed a McConnelllinked super PAC in publicly calling for Blankenship’s defeat, saying if he’s victorious, the party can’t win West Virginia in November. “If he were to be the nominee, we would instantly squander a viable opportunity, and lose a seat — just like Roy Moore did — we might have been able to win,’’ said Steven Law, president of the McConnell-linked super PAC Senate Leadership Fund. Law was referring to Alabama Republican Roy Moore, a former state Supreme Court judge, who lost a special Senate election last year. The Blankenship ad also has the potential of turning away potential swing voters to the Republican Party more broadly, Law said. “I do think there is a segment of the press corps that loves to cover Republicans who spew racist claptrap because it portrays our party in a negative light and turns off educated voters, upper income voters,’’ Law said. “It’s a problem when someone carries on like that.’’ On June 15, Elaine Chao did not respond to a question about Blankenship’s ads as she left an event at an elementary school in Frankfort, Kentucky. Blankenship filed for the Senate seat after serving prison time for a misdemeanor conviction of violating federal mine safety standards at Upper Big Branch Mine in southern West Virginia, where an explosion in 2010 killed 29 men. He has vehemently denied responsibility for the deadly blast. As of mid-April, Blankenship has put $3.5 million of his own money into the campaign, has only received $2,000 in campaign checks and has spent $2.8 million, according to federal campaign finance disclosures. Blankenship was asked about the “China person’’ comment during a debate last week in Morgantown. “This idea that I called somebody a China person, I mean I’m an American person,’’ Blankenship said. “I don’t see this insinuation by the press that there’s something racist about saying a China person. Some

VALEDICTORIAN from 5 Many of the graduates wearing purple and white robes stood up, cheered and chanted “let her speak’’ as she tried to finish her speech June 2, The Press Democrat of Santa Rosa reported. Students clapped in support and shouted as she returned to her seat in the front row during the ceremony on the school football field. Seitz said she was “appalled’’ that the school had pulled the plug on her address, though oﬃcials said all speakers had been warned the microphone would be muted if they went off message. Principal David Stirrat said the school had been tipped off in advance that Seitz might deviate from her approved remarks. Seitz said the school administration feared the truth. She posted video on YouTube of her interrupted speech and added an uncensored version of the full speech she tried to deliver. In the expanded version, she said students hadn’t let it drag them down when some on campus defended perpetrators of sexual violence and silenced their victims. Seitz said she was sexually assaulted on campus by someone she knew and wanted to show frustration for a lack of action by the school. “I thought this is a public school with freedom of speech,’’ she told the newspaper. “This is for my class that stood up and said ‘let her speak.’ Even if the administration doesn’t give me a mic, I still want to speak.’’ Seitz is the first member of her family to graduate from high school. She will attend Stanford University. 

people are Korean persons and some of them are African persons. It’s not any slander there.’’ Blankenship is at odds with McConnell, who he says is “spending millions to defeat me.’’ In response, the Senate Leadership Fund has pointed to statements in 2009 in which Blankenship mulled a move to China. “I’m actually considering moving to China or somewhere and being more like George Washington, you know,’’ Blankenship said in the 2009 recorded phone call, which was used as evidence in his criminal trial. “If I can get citizenship, I can probably get citizenship in India. I’d rather be in China, but the hard work and the effort and the creativity that we put into running businesses in the U.S. would be much more valuable in other places.’’ A spokesman for the Senate GOP’s most powerful super PAC has declined to confirm or deny a connection to Mountain Families PAC, an organization that has invested more than $700,000 attacking Blankenship on television. Blankenship’s reference to “Cocaine Mitch’’ stems from a 2014 magazine article alleging drugs were found aboard a commercial cargo ship owned by Chao’s family. Chao was born in Taiwan and immigrated to the United States as a child with her family. Her father later founded a successful shipping company in New York. Chao worked in the administrations of presidents Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush. In 1993, she married McConnell and has since served as cabinet secretaries for presidents George W. Bush and Donald Trump. Blankenship said in a statement on June 14 that the establishment is doing everything it can to keep Manchin in oﬃce. “I am not just ready to help President Trump drain the swamp — I am the only candidate that is capable of doing so. If I am not the Republican nominee against Joe Manchin in the fall, Manchin will win,’’ he said. Six Republican candidates are in the primary, including U.S. Rep. Evan Jenkins and state Attorney General Patrick Morrisey, who was endorsed on June 14 by Kentucky’s junior U.S. Sen. Rand Paul. Jenkins and Morrisey aso distanced themselves from McConnell during a recent debate, when no one raised their hands to say they’d support McConnell as majority leader. Trump’s son, Donald Trump Jr., tweeted that he thinks a Blankenship nomination guarantees another Manchin term. 

Do you know an outstanding grad? The Northwest Asian Weekly is looking to feature outstanding students of Asian descent who have displayed one of more of the following: outstanding leadership, a unique talent, top G.P.A., or who has overcome adversity, promotes diversity, and builds community. You can send us the student’s bio and photo or 100 words about his/her achievement. Send to our editor, Ruth Bayang, at editor@nwasianweekly.com.

asianweekly

JUNE 23 – JUNE 29, 2018

NotICe

northwest

36 YEARS

employmeNt

FIRST PUBLICATION

Somerset Gardens Apartments lllp landscaping at Somerset Gardens Apartments

BID DUe DAte: July 12th, 2018 at 11:59 pm ReQUeSt FoR BIDS Somerset Gardens Apartments LLLP is seeking qualified contractors interested in submitting bids for the Landscaping at Somerset Gardens Apartments. The work includes, but is not limited to, pruning and removal of trees and vegetation, concrete removal, landscaping, planting, and irrigation, and other tasks as described in the bid documents. The property is located at 14700 NE 29th Pl, Bellevue, WA 98007. There is an optional prebid meeting at the property on June 26th, 2018 at 10:00 a.m. Bid packets are available for download on KCHA’s website at http://www.kcha.org/business/construction/ open/. All bids must be received by Somerset Gardens Apartments LLLP no later than the above due date and time at 600 Andover Park West, Seattle, WA 98188. No Bids will be accepted after that date and time. If you have questions, please contact Cristy Thompson at cristyt@ kcha.org. The estimate is $149,368.00.

Get your Classified Ad here now!

Outdoor Research is hiring experienced fulltime sewing operators, especially Flatseam, Coverstitch, and Single needle machine operators. This position will be eligible for medical insurance and paid vacation benefits. Please come apply in person at 2203 1st Ave S. Seattle, WA 98134 or fax resume to 206-467-0374 or email jobs@orgear.com

Place a 6 line classified ad for just $30! Or $5/line for a week. Your ad will also be placed in our Seattle Chinese Post and nwasianweekly.com. Call 206-223-0623

HardWok Cafe (Bellevue Location) currently hiring Full / Part Time enthusiastic servers with experience. Bilingual preferred but not required : English / Mandarin Chinese. Please message www.facebook.com/hardwokcafebellevue

Subscribe to the Northwest Asian Weekly $40 for one year. Name__________________________ Address ________________________ City ___________________State____ Zip Code _______________________ Phone _________________________ Mail to: NW Asian Weekly 412 Maynard Ave. S. Seattle, WA 98104 or call 206-223-0623

Service Directory Just $10 a week! Check below for more info. Must run 12 weeks for $120. Call 206-223-0623

PROMOTE YOUR REGIONAL EVENT STATEWIDE WITH A $325 CLASSIFIED LISTING

A PLACE FOR MOM HAS HELPED OVER A MILLION FAMILIES FIND SENIOR LIVING.

OR $1,575 FOR A DISPLAY AD. CALL THIS NEWSPAPER OR 360-344-2938

OUR TRUSTED LOCAL ADVISORS HELP SOLUTIONS TO YOUR UNIQUE NEEDS AT NO

FOR DETAILS.

COST TO YOU! CALL 855-415-4148.

HOME SECURITY. LEADING SMART HOME PROVIDER VIVINT SMART HOME HAS AN

DONATE YOUR CAR TO CHARITY. RECEIVE MAXIMUM VALUE OF WRITE OFF FOR

OFFER JUST FOR YOU. CALL 866-387-2013 TO GET A PROFESSIONALLY INSTALLED

YOUR TAXES. RUNNING OR NOT! ALL CONDITIONS ACCEPTED. FREE PICKUP. CALL

HOME SECURITY SYSTEM WITH $0 ACTIVATION.

FOR DETAILS, 855-635-4229.

OCEAN’S 8 from 7 forever due to infighting. As pleasant as the movie was to watch, the movie lacked drama and tension. The original “Ocean’s” trilogy was directed by Oscar winner Steven Soderbergh, who is really great at giving his films a sense of place and a visual style that feels like its own character. “Ocean’s 8” was directed by Gary Ross (“Seabiscuit, “The Hunger Games”), and while really fun to look at, the beauty was largely in costuming. The film kind of felt perfunctory and almost routine under Ross’ direction. There are some really beautiful and iconic scenes from “Ocean’s 11” that was missing in “Ocean’s 8.” Like, where was the moment that was like the dancing water show in front of the Bellagio as Clair de Lune swelled in the background? “Ocean’s 8” felt like it lacked iconic moments. (But maybe I am dumb and wrong and 12 years from now, we will remember the moment all the women sat together on a New York City train as . . . a song played in the background.) Now the bright, Asian-y bits. Awkwafina, a New York Citybased rapper who is Chinese American and Korean American, probably had the least name-recognition going into this movie,

yet she held her own very well and had great screen presence. She was comic relief and definitely defied model minority stereotypes. No Asian parent dreams of having their Asian daughter grow up to be a really amazing pickpocket. But now, maybe after seeing Awkwafina’s character lift watches seemingly without effort and walk away with loads of cash money — maybe Asian parents will expand their definitions of success. Toward the beginning of the film, we see Kaling drop a fair bit of Hindi, which was cool and novel to see. Kaling doesn’t speak Hindi and had to learn the lines for this role. Beyond that, I found Kaling’s role to be fairly low-key, but still sweet. “Ocean’s 8” debuted number one at the box oﬃce, earning $41.5 million its first three days in theaters. This opening exceeds all of the preceding “Ocean’s” films (though it’s a little hard to compare opening weekend numbers, due to inflation and also the changing ways we absorb media aka what I’m calling the “Netflix effect”). According to Box Oﬃce Mojo, 69 percent of “Ocean’s 8” opening weekend watchers were women. This is not really exceptionally novel though. Female-led movies have been profitable for years, and perhaps executives are finally paying more attention to the numbers. 

Stacy can be reached at stacy@nwasianweekly.com.

SOLUTION from SUDOKU on page 6.

SERVICE DIRECTORY DONE RITE

The American Legion Cathay Post 186

CARPET CLEANING

Serving the community since 1946

206-487-8236

GOAL: MORE CASHFLOW

(737) 200-1055 www.retirenow2018.com Questions? Contact us at bettye@retirenow2018.com

cathaypost@hotmail.com

HONG LAW FIRM, PLLC 206-856-8291  honglegal@gmail.com

Bankruptcy Chapter 7  Personal Injury Landlord-Tenant  Simple Wills

Frank S. Hong, A�orney at Law avvo.com

» PERSONAL INJURY

» WRONGFUL DEATH

» AIRLINE DISASTERS

» DOG BITES

» BICYCLE ACCIDENTS

» PEDESTRIAN ACCIDENTS

Mandarin, Cantonese & Korean Interpreter available

206-625-9104

WEBSITE: HLG.LAWYER

SPIRITUAL HEALER Guaranteed results in 24 hours.

Finally there is a born gifted healer you can trust …

347-368-2424

If Anna cannot help you, no one can!

She is superior to all others. She is one of the only certiﬁed Spiritual healers.

JUNE 23 – JUNE 29, 2018

SHELF from 9 In addition to doing a great job of introducing readers to Lana and the other characters, Chien creates a character in itself in the Asian shopping plaza where the story takes place, a refreshing new setting compared to the usual bookstore or bakery featured in many cozy mysteries. We see the tight-knit community that has been formed among the different business owners and employees, as many have worked side-by-side for years, if not decades. And as with any small community, there is no end to drama and infighting that are cause for ongoing amusement and intrigue.

Red Mandarin Dress: An Inspector Chen Novel By Qiu Xiaolong Minotaur Books, 2007

After he is asked to look into a sensitive corruption case, Chief Inspector Chen Cao of the Shanghai Police Department, takes action immediately — by taking leave from work. But while he is out of the oﬃce, the body of a young woman is discovered in a highly congested area of the city, with the only notable thing about her being the red mandarin dress she is wearing. Then a second body is found in another busy part of town — also wearing the same kind of red mandarin dress — and Chen soon finds himself back on active duty to help with the manhunt. The newspapers are soon speculating that Shanghai is being targeted by its first serial killer and the Communist Party is anxious to have the murders resolved as quickly BLOG from 10

Past conﬂicts

Conflicts between China and Taiwan have permeated to the local scene since the last century. It was not easy for the Chinese community to stay neutral. Just like U.S. partisan politics, you were either red (proChina), blue (pro-Taiwan), or green (proTaiwan independence). If you were pro-China, you were less likely to attend Taiwan’s community events. If you were pro-Taiwan, you disagree with China being totalitarian, and state that Taiwan is a democracy. In the past, both sides organized protests at opponents’ events. You’re just asking for trouble if you invited both Chinese and Taiwan officials to sit in one room. Before the event, you would be traumatized with harsh negotiations. Each country’s representative would fight for the head table and demand its official flag to be displayed in the room. One big symbol of legitimacy was the presence of American officials at the event. And who would sit next to the U.S. officials? Local Chinese community leaders learned their lesson the hard way.

Why switch sides

Several Chinese community organizations have experienced internal power struggles because of their China or Taiwan stance. Traditionally, Chinese organizations were on Taiwan’s side. However, the Chinese consul generals are relentless in courting community support over the years, and have granted prestigious titles and honors to overseas Chinese, in addition to hosting trips for them in China. (Taiwan employs a similar agenda). One by one, several organizations switched to supporting China. The Chinese community’s original ties to Taiwan were influenced by two factors: the dominance of the Chow family dynasty and the community’s fear and dislike of communism. Some Chinese family members had suffered persecution under the Chinese Communist regime. From the late matriarch Ruby Chow, a former King County councilmember, to daughter Cheryl Chow, a former Seattle City councilmember, the Chow family who controlled the Chong Wah Benevolent Association were diehard supporters of the Taiwan government for decades. After the death of Ruby and Cheryl, it was like the passing of an era. In 2009, Ruby’s late husband Ping was invited to ride in the community parade for China’s 60th anniversary celebration. Collective jaws dropped when community members

asianweekly northwest

YOUR VOICE

as possible. Taking place in the mid 1990s, “Red Mandarin Dress” gives readers a glimpse into China’s post Cultural Revolution. We see how the Party and government operate, which is different from what most readers in the Western world are accustomed to. In addition to Chen, Xiaolong has created an entire cast of complex characters who work together (though sometimes against each other) to try and solve the case. These characters include Detective Yu Guangming, the acting head of the department while Chen is on leave, and Yu’s wife Peiqin, who does a little bit of her own detective work to find who is killing the young women. While “Red Mandarin Dress” is the fifth book in Xiaolong’s Inspector Chen series (something I didn’t realize until I was already halfway through the book), readers won’t need to have read the previous books as it works as a standalone story. But as my regular readers would know, I’m a sucker for a series and this introduction into Chen’s world has got me hooked, so don’t be surprised if you see more of his adventures in future columns.

The Good Son

By You-Jeong Jeong, translated by Chi-Young Kim Penguin Books, 2018 One morning, Yu-jin wakes up to a strange metallic smell of blood and a call from his brother asking if everything is okay, as he had missed a call from their mother in the middle of the night. Initially, Yu-jin tells him everything is fine, but then he realizes he is in the same clothes from

saw that Ping was in the parade. What made many community members shift alliances from Taiwan to China was due to China’s rise to power on the global stage. Buoyed by the No. 1 Chinese leaders’ visit to Seattle, including Jiang Zemin, Hu Jintao, Xi Jinping (for choosing Seattle as their first stop in the U.S.) over the past quarter of the century, their fear and skepticism towards their native land has been transformed to pride and support.

Taiwan’s strategy

Years ago, Taiwan government officials were not open to community members favoring China. As China tries to isolate Taiwan, its officials have adopted a new approach. Taiwan officials have told community members that it’s okay to be friends of both. “There is no conflict to support both Taiwan and China. You are China’s friend and you are also Taiwan’s friend,” said a Taiwan diplomat. On Taiwan’s annual celebration of its Republic of China’s anniversary in a mainstream hotel, it is common to see pro-China folks showing up. If politics are seen as a hard strategy to pursue, Taiwan diplomats and immigrants have shifted its focus to promote Taiwan’s culture and heritage instead. It’s a indirect way to illustrate the difference between China’s and Taiwan’s way of life. The annual Taiwan Festival in Seattle has grown from a day to several days, then weeks to more than a month. Its annual Night Market at the University of Washington is a packed and expanded event every year.

June 10

On June 10, young Chinatown community leaders played a big role in organizing two different banquets at two different locations for the Chinese consul general and the Taiwan deputy mayor, with skill and tact. Initially, the Taiwan group planned to have its welcoming party in Bellevue. But they were willing to change venues due to the importance of having U.S. officials showing up. It was so seamless that many in the audience weren’t aware there were two political events held simultaneously, and American officials including former Lt. Gov. Brad Owen, State Sen. Bob Hasegawa, and Seattle Senior Deputy Mayor Mike Fong were at both events. Born in Taiwan, State Rep. Mia Gregerson attended only the Taiwan event. The presence of U.S officials is important as it validates both sides. It’s a matter of “face” for both China and Taiwan dip-

the night before and covered in blood — not mud as he originally thought. If that weren’t enough, once he is out of the shower, he discovers his mother’s body in a pool of blood at the bottom of the stairs of their posh Seoul duplex. Try as he might, the 26-year-old can’t remember much about the night before — he has had seizures for most of his life and has trouble with his memory. All Yu-jin has is the faint impression of his mother calling his name. But he doesn’t know if she was calling for help or if she was begging for her life. This leads to a three-day search for the truth, as Yu-jin frantically tries to uncover what happened. “The Good Son” is a fast-paced psychological thriller, giving readers insight into how the mind and memory work. We follow Yu-jin as he works to find out who killed his mother — even questioning if he was the one who did it. In addition to Yu-jin’s memories of that tragic night, Jeong gives readers a glimpse into Yu-jin’s life prior to that night, both recent and from years past. We see the twisted relationship between mother and son and slowly learn the truth about their family right alongside Yu-jin. All of which could have led to Yu-jin killing his mother. “The Good Son” will have readers on the edge of their seats and Jeong does a great job of portraying the urgency Yu-jin feels to learn the truth. We are right there with him, wanting to know what really happened to his mother and whether or not he was involved in her demise.  Samantha can be reached at info@nwasianweekly.com.

lomats. Hasegawa and Owen have also visited China and Taiwan. It was so perfectly timed that the same lion dance was transported from one event to another. Were the two sides aware of what was going on? Yes. Organizers noticed some seats at the head table were empty and then people would return after 20 minutes. How did the young Chinese community organizers manage the whole situation? Since both events were held on the same night, it’s more convenient for Washington state government oﬃcials to attend both dinners, said Tony Au, one of the organizers. In the old days, Chinese oﬃcials might not be happy. Now, both sides have developed an understanding and acceptance.

“This is America’s soil, not China or Taiwan,” said Au. “For centuries, Chinese have been discriminated in America. Now in the Chinese community, we don’t need power struggles, being divided, or left out. We need to focus on unity and harmony. We need to find solutions and not be the problem. The older generations have done things differently. But times have changed, and we should, too. We have to follow the new era and move on.” Now, this perspective and new phenomenon would take years to develop in San Francisco’s or New York’s Chinatown. Call it leadership.  Assunta can be reached at assunta@nwasianweekly.com.

asianweekly northwest

36 YEARS

JUNE 23 – JUNE 29, 2018

LE from 1 information to the public following officer-involved shootings — it used Le’s incident as a case study. Le, a 20-year-old Vietnamese American, was fatally shot by a King County deputy on June 13, 2017. The report recommended better ways in which KCSO can be more transparent about high-profile police shootings. Le’s sister, Uyen Le, along with aunt Xuyen Le, Le’s family legal counsel Jeffrey Campiche, Le’s mother, Deu Ho Yuew, and Linda Diem Tran, Le family’s interpreter and legal counsel, testified at King County Council chambers on June 12, about the harm done by the KSCO’s handling of the details surrounding Le’s death. Initial reports from the Sheriff ’s Office claimed that Le had been carrying a knife, but was later found to have been carrying a pen when he died. To date, there has been no evidence indicating that Le ever had a knife in his possession. According to the report, the Sheriff ’s Office failed to correct these inaccuracies, only reporting that only a pen had been found, following media coverage. “A year has passed and King County has not accepted responsibility for how it has misrepresented [Tommy] to the public and in the media,” said the Le family statement. “The officer who shot Tommy still blatantly carries a gun

in our neighborhood. Public information officials who have misrepresented the truth, or those who allowed mistruths, are still in office (at their jobs).” After Le’s death, several forums were held that publicly addressed the consequences of the Sheriff Office’s lack of clarity Tommy Le and communication, and the need for responding measures for accountability to be taken. Le’s family wants justice. “We are a strong Vietnamese family, one who works hard within society, one that has led a good life, a family that is supported by the local Vietnamese community — and we will not give up until King County takes responsibility for what happened to our Tommy.” “What appears in the press about an incident has a profound impact on the public’s perception of an incident, as well as on the loved ones of anyone harmed during an interaction with police,” said Deborah Jacobs, Director of OLEO. “It’s important that the Sheriff ’s Office have

towards progressively phasing out select plastic utensils and packaging, including plastic bags, spoons, forks, and polystyrene foam containers. Failure to comply with the food service ordinance may lead to a $250 fine. Ditching plastic straws, among the last utensils required to be replaced with compostable options, will make Seattle the largest metropolitan city to ban single-use plastic straws. The move away from plastics in recent years have led companies like EcoProducts and Karat Earth to provide PLA (plant-based compostable plastic) onetime-use utensils and packaging for food establishments. However, the transition is challenging for bubble tea shops, where its signature straw is as crucial to the enjoyment of the product as the beverage itself. The sound of that gratifying pop, where the characteristic angled tip of a thick bubble tea straw punctures the firm heat sealed lid, signifies the start of a refreshing, sweet bubble tea experience. Along with its angled tip, a classic bubble tea straw measures roughly 10.5-millimeters wide to accommodate large tapioca bubbles. The growth of the bubble tea industry has since led to the popularity of other toppings to fit through such a straw, including grass or ai yu jelly, flavored popping boba, pudding, and more. Currently, Eco-Products has jumbo straws with appropriate widths for bubble tea, but without the angled tip required to break through the heat-sealed cups, which has become a standard for many bubble tea chains in the industry. The market has yet to catch up to the demands for PLA bubble tea straws, but local bubble tea shops must gear up for the switch nonetheless. “For the environment, I think [the straw ban] is a good thing, but I wish we had more resources,” said Ian Chow, manager of Sharetea UW branch. Chow is prepared to offer PLA compostable straws to customers in July, but admits the cost of these one-time-use straws will be five times more than the average cost of the plastic straws currently in use, excluding shipping. Available compostable options, like the bamboo or paper straws that Chow found from a general internet search is often catered towards home-use and not sold in large wholesale prices. While Chow says the city provided ample notice for the ban, the samples and brands they provide don’t apply to the needs of bubble tea. With Seattle being among the first major city to institute such a ban, Chow and other local proprietors must set the precedent in sourcing and utilizing compostable bubble tea straws at a time when the market for such products

Photo by Han Bui

STRAW BAN from 1

has yet to catch up to demand. Sego Jackson, the Solid Waste Policy Liaison for SPU, admits to seeing the lack of options for bubble tea shops, particularly with the angle tipped straws needed to puncture heat-sealed lids. “I’m advocating with other companies that this is a growing market. It’s happening all over the world right now. There’s no doubt that anybody producing PLA angled cut straws is going to have that marketplace,” said Jackson. Dan, a manager of U-District based Kung Fu Tea who declined to give his last name, has been concerned about the transition and the lack of options. “The city provided samples of paper straws that just didn’t work. The paper doesn’t hold up well and the boba gets stuck in the straw,” said Dan. In terms of cost, he adds, stores would have to purchase a very large lot of straws with each order to balance out the cost, which would require more storage than stores like Kung Fu Tea could afford. “We realize there is going to be a delay in being able to transition out of those [plastic straws] that are absolutely essential for those heat-sealed cups and we’re asking companies to do what they can,” said Jackson. His hope is that such companies paving the way can find temporary solutions — using a tool to break the seal, for example, or using scissors to cut the ends of the PLA straws to create an angled tip — until companies like Eco-Products adapt to meet those demands. Vivienne Pai, owner of the Moo Bar with locations in Northern California and Seattle, estimates she still has a couple thousand non-compliant straws which she might ship back to California to be utilized at other Moo Bar locations before July 1. Pai has been able to secure PLA bubble tea straws from Taiwan, reporting that Taiwanese producers are responsive to what

policies that build trust and legitimacy with communities by ensuring communications originating from their oﬃce are accurate, timely, and respectful.” Measures in the report include protocol for timely reporting of critical incidents, transparent corrections in cases of misinformation or misleading reporting, and improved communications between the Sheriff ’s Oﬃce and multicultural communities, particularly ethnic media serving non-English-speaking populations. “We’re excited to have the opportunity to work cooperatively with a forward-thinking law enforcement agency on formulating a set of best practices that will minimize friction in interactions with journalists in highpressure situations,” said Frank LoMonte, Director of the Brechner Center for Freedom of Information. “When a newsworthy event occurs, people are bombarded with rumors and speculations on social media. Pushing out reliable information promptly, and keeping that information regularly updated, is the best antidote.” The Le family said, “The Asian community is waiting for justice, waiting for King County to do more than express sympathy and remorse.”  Sophia can be reached at info@nwasianweekly.com. Ruth can be reached at editor@nwasianweekly.com.

they see as a growing need, but because the need is still exclusive to Seattle and select businesses, the Moo Bar would still be requesting PLA straws as custom orders, requiring that she order a large amount to be produced, shipped, and stored at a separate facility. But seeing the trend towards phasing out plastics, Pai has gone further to also designing branded glass mugs with hopes that customers might take to adopting reusable glass mugs they can bring back and use at Moo Bar for a discount. The goal, said Jackson, is to work towards compliance as soon as possible. He encourages companies encountering diﬃculties to reach out and set up a compliance schedule and inform SPU of the steps they’re taking to try and meet compliance. While they are not providing waivers or exemptions to the

rule, companies can work with SPU to extend their transition time, source compostable alternatives, and run out their current supply. Companies are encouraged to have specifically marked trash cans for compost, trash, and recycling, and use signage and information provided by SPU to inform customers of how the straws and utensils currently in use should be disposed. The adjustment period will require transparency and teamwork between businesses and SPU, said Jackson, but at no point would bubble tea fans have to worry about using their last straw. By July 1, they would simply be using a different one.  Tiﬀany can be reached at info@nwasianweekly.com.