vol 31 no 44 | october 27 - november 2

VOL 31 NO 44 OCTOBER 27 – NOVEMBER 2, 2012 FREE 30 YEARS YOUR VOICE

PRSRT STDU.S. Postage PaidPermit No. 746Seattle, WA

■ 412 Maynard Ave. S., Seattle, WA 98104 • t. 206.223.5559 • f. 206.223.0626 • [email protected] • [email protected] • www.nwasianweekly.com

THEELECTION

ISSUE

By Chris BrummittTHE ASSOCIATED PRESS

On board the USS George Wash-ington (AP) — A U.S. aircraft car-rier group cruised through the dis-puted South China Sea on Saturday in a show of American power in waters that are fast becoming a fo-cal point of Washington’s strategic rivalry with Beijing.

Vietnamese security and gov-

ernment officials were flown onto the nuclear-powered USS George Washington ship, underlining the burgeoning military relationship between the former enemies. A small number of journalists were also invited to witness the display of maritime might in the oil-rich waters, which are home to islands disputed between China and the

{see USS cont’d on page 12}

Both gubernatorial candidates have heavily courted the Asian and Asian Pacific community’s support this year. They have both opened and actively used offices in or near the International District. They have reached out at events, such as the Asian

Pacific American Community Summit held in Tacoma in September. They both even attended the Northwest Asian Weekly’s 30th Anniversary Gala and led the opening ceremony for the dinner.

The APA community, traditionally

considered one of the more politically inactive segments of the population, has responded in spades, holding public and private fundraisers for both candidates. By now, most families and clans have chosen their candidate, and, after reviewing what we

know about both men, the Northwest Asian Weekly has come to the conclusion that no matter who wins, the Asian community will benefit.

Read on for the Northwest Asian Weekly’s endorsements.

Northwest Asian Weekly Endorses...

U.S. carrier cruises in disputed South China Sea

The USS George Washington visiting Japan.

» Employs Asian and Pacific Americans in staff, including Campaign Manager Joby Shimomura (Hired as Chief of Staff when Inslee represented the 1st District), Deputy Campaign Manager Kelly Wicker, and Outreach Director Unjin Lee.

» Has served as U.S. Representative of both 1st and 4th districts of Washington, working with people from both East and West Washington.

» Voted for the Affordable Care Act.

» Lacks experience managing large-sized staffs.

» Shepherded the Japanese-American Me-morial on Bainbridge Island project while in Congress.

» As Attorney General, McKenna ap-pointed the first woman Asian American Deputy Attorney General, Tina Kondo and promoted Gary Ikeda to division chief at the University of Washington and Mary Li to chief of the Social and Health Services division of the Seattle office.

» Has spent more time in Washington State, working in state government.

» Joined a lawsuit by multiple State At-torney Generals challenging the constitu-tionality of Obamacare. Did not contribute state funds but contributed his time.

» Spent the last 8 years as Attorney Gen-eral, managing approximately 1150 staff members in 12 offices.

» Cracked down on sex trafficking as Attorney General, a practice that affects many in South East Asia.

Jay Inslee (D) Jay Inslee (D)On the issuesRob McKenna (R) Rob McKenna (R)

Marijuana legalization

Education funding

Transportation infrastructure

Small businesses

Taxes

Charter schools

Same-sex marriage

» Opposes the legalization of marijuana.

» Supports increased fund-ing for K–12 and Higher Education.

» Supports new taxes to improve infrastructure, focusing on public transit.

» Favors tax cuts for small businesses.

» Opposes raising taxes, but supports closing existing tax loopholes.

» Does not favor charter schools. Supports giving grants to innovative public schools.

» Supports same-sex marriage.

» Opposes the legalization of marijuana.

» Supports increased funding for K–12 and Higher Education.

» Supports new taxes to improve infrastructure, focusing on new roadways.

» Favors tax cuts for small businesses.

» Opposes raising taxes, but supports closing existing tax loopholes.

» Supports a charter school program.

» Supports equal rights for domestic partners, opposes same-sex marriage due to faith.

{see EDITORIAL cont’d on page 15}

Inslee, McKenna appear at communities of color forum

By Charles LamNORTHWEST ASIAN WEEKLy

Washington Communities of Color United for Progress hosted a legislative discussion day and candidate forum to discuss necessary legislative priorities on education, eco-nomic development, and crim-inal justice this past Saturday, Oct. 20 at Rainier Beach High School. These priorities will go on to be presented to winning candidates as issues important to communities of color. Ap-proximately 100 individuals attended and participated in the discussion.

The legislative portion of the event took place in the morn-ing and was at times heated.

{see FORUM cont’d on page 14}

2 OCTOBER 27 – NOVEMBER 2, 2012 asianweeklynorthwest

■ NAMES IN THE NEWS

Bob Ferguson will protect taxpayers.

Bob Ferguson will protect consumers and protect vulnerable communities from fraud and scams.

Bob Ferguson will keep our communities safe.

Bob will stand up for civil rights.

Democrat Bob Ferguson has the support of Washington State’s communities of color. He has been endorsed by the Filipino American Political Action Group of Washington, Asian Pacific Americans for Civic Empowerment, the Northwest Asian Weekly, and the Seattle Chinese Post.

Paid for by Friends of Bob Ferguson – (D)

Bob Ferguson – Our Choice for Attorney GeneralEndorsed by the Northwest Asian Weekly and the Seattle Chinese Post

Luly Yang previews new designs at Wells Fargo Women’s Roundtable

Seattle-based fashion designer Luly Yang previewed some of her latest pieces Thursday, Oct. 18, at a Wells Fargo Women’s Roundtable event.

The roundtable was attended by approximately 90 women and was held at the Four Seasons Hotel in Seattle.

yang, who graduated from the University of Washington with a degree in graphic design, is well known for her bridal gowns and evening ensembles. She has been awarded Seattle’s best designer for seven years by Seattle Bridal magazine.

Uwajimaya receives EnergySmart Grover award

Grocery store Uwajimaya was honored at a ceremony at its International District location on Oct. 9 for its efforts in reducing its energy usage. It was awarded a large check in the amount of $255,166, signifying the amount of rebates it has received for the efficiency improvements it has made over the years.

Uwaijimaya began working with EnergySmart Grocer in 2006 and has completed 11 energy-saving projects, saving 1.7 million kilowatt-hours annually.

“BRA is very pleased that Uwajimaya has so strongly embraced the EnergySmart Grocer program,” said program manager Gary Smith. “Uwajimaya’s strategy of rolling over the energy savings and rebate incentives from one project to help pay for the next project is a winning formula…”

Filipino American teen is first runner-up Miss WA Teen USA

Puget Sound high schooler Starla Sam-paco was crowned first runner-up Miss WA Teen USA dur-ing the Miss Wash-ington USA pageant that took place over the weekend of Oct. 20 and Oct. 21. In ad-dition to first runner-up, she was awarded most academic and most photogenic.

Sampaco is cur-rently a high school senior, is a member of her school’s newspaper, and hosts a Seattle public access TV show named “What’s Good, 206?” She intends to go on to become a broadcast journalist.

She will be serving as runner-up to 2013 Miss Washington Teen USA Imani Blackmon.

Luly Yang (in green vest) is known for her evening wear, gowns, and dresses.

The value of the check represents the amount of money Uwaijimaya has saved through rebates.

From left: Event Organizers Sue Sewell; Mary Knell, president of the WA Wells Fargo Commercial Bankl; Erika Freitas; and Tran L. Meyers

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Northwest Asian Weekly is always looking for Asian American community news. If you are the host or an attendee of an API fundraiser, e-mail us a big photo, event highlights, and the amount of money raised. We are also looking for news about APIs in new jobs and APIs getting public recognition and awards.

Please send materials to [email protected] with “names in the news” as the subject line.

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30 YEARS YOUR VOICE OCTOBER 27 – NOVEMBER 2, 2012 3


■ WORld NEWS

■ bRIEflY

By Chris BrummittTHE ASSOCIATED PRESS

HANOI, VIETNAM (AP) — Vietnam’s embattled prime minister acknowledged Monday, Oct. 23, that he had mismanaged the country’s slumping economy, and he pledged to push forward with difficult reforms of bloated state-owned enterprises.

Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung made the remarks at the opening of the national assembly, three-quarters of the way through what is turning out to be a rough year for a Southeast Asian nation once touted as an emerging “tiger” economy. As foreign ambassadors looked on from the balcony, Dung was able to claim credit for stabilizing inflation, but listed a series of economic failings.

“There are enormous challenges,” he said to the 500 parliamentarians, more than 90 percent of whom are members of the Communist Party. “Public dissatisfaction persists.”

The growth of Vietnam’s once-booming economy has slowed to around 5 percent this year. It has been dragged down by the country’s corruption-prone and inefficient state-owned industries, which have borrowed heavily from banks and have been unable to turn a profit.

With credit drying up within the country, businesses have been unable to invest, and the global economic slowdown has taken its toll on exports.

Dung, a little more than one-year into his second five-year term, was publicly rebuked last week by the Communist Party following a meeting of its central committee. Some reports suggested that he had survived a leadership challenge.

In his speech, he accused blogs for reporting on rumors and the power struggles within the government, saying “hostile forces” were abusing the Internet to “slander” the government. International rights groups say Dung has overseen a crackdown on freedom of expression in the country.

Dung said he took personal responsibility for heavy losses run up by Vinashin and Vinalines, two state-owned shipping companies. He pledged that reforms aimed at cutting those and other state-owned companies down to size will speed up in 2013.

Dung said Vietnam would need fourth-quarter economic growth of 6.5 percent to reach its target of 5.2 percent for the whole year. He predicted growth of 5.5 percent next year, with inflation at 8 percent.

Vietnam prime minister admits mismanaging economy

you still have time to register to vote. The dead-line for in-person voter registration in King County is Monday, Oct. 29. Though you can no longer reg-ister online, you can still register at the King Coun-ty Elections headquarters in Renton or the King County Voter Registration annex in downtown Seattle in time to vote in the Nov. 6 election. Regis-tration forms are available in English, Cambodian, Chinese, Korean, Laotian, Russian, Spanish, and Vietnamese.

For directions, visit www.kingcounty.gov/elections/aboutus/directions.aspx. For more information, visit www.kingcounty.gov/elections/registration.aspx.

In addition to the standard English Voter’s Guide, Washington state also produces voter information packets in Spanish, Vietnamese, and Chinese as required by Federal law. These packets are available by mail and by pick up from local sources.

To access these materials online, visit www.kingcounty.gov/elections/currentelections/201211/voterspamphlet.aspx.

Voter registration still open

Voter materials available in multiple languages


■ NATIONAl NEWS

By StaffTHE ASSOCIATED PRESS

CLEVELAND (AP) — A new northeast Ohio casino is reaching out to gamblers of Asian descent with events tailored to Asian tastes and hosts that handle tasks for those bettors — including arranging for complimentary meals or hotel stays.

The Horseshoe Casino Cleveland is among U.S. casinos catering to the ethnic group. Those players are important to the Ohio casino, where two baccarat tables are regularly packed with players of Asian de-scent — primarily Chinese — who might spend hours there, The Plain Dealer report-ed.

On a recent Monday, eight of the seats at one of the baccarat tables were filled by Asian women — five who have reached the top level in a customer loyalty program run by Caesars Entertainment, the compa-ny that manages the Cleveland casino.

Gambling has been growing in popular-ity in Asia, with PricewaterhouseCoopers analysts predicting that gambling revenue in Asia will rise 18.3 percent a year and hit $79.3 billion annually by 2015, according to the Plain Dealer.

The latest census estimates show that northeast Ohio’s Asian communities are

small — including only about 16,000 peo-ple of Chinese descent — but leaders of Cleveland’s Chinese community acknowl-edge gambling has a significant place in their culture.

“Gambling is in our blood,” said attor-ney Margaret Wong, a Chinese American widely known for her work in immigration law. “We gamble. We take risks. The Chi-nese are all about risk.”

But Kent Woo, who heads NICOS — a group that advocates for the health of Chi-nese Americans in San Francisco — be-lieves the major attraction is based more on luck and a cultural acceptance that begins with recreational gambling in the home.

NICOS, an acronym for the names of founding agencies, started a problem-gambling program in 1997 after a survey of more than 1,800 adults in San Francisco ranked gambling addiction as the Chinese community’s most serious social problem.

Johnny Wu, president of the Organi-zation of Chinese Americans of Greater Cleveland, has been a consultant for the Presque Isle casino in Pennsylvania and Mountaineer casino in West Virginia. Wu and Wong said that they had not heard any alarm about gambling in Cleveland’s Chi-nese community.

The Cleveland casino’s efforts to cater

to Asian American players have includ-ed its recent staging of a series of events capped by a Moon Festival, featuring music and comedy performances — one in Man-darin Chinese and one in English — at a nearby hotel.

Two Chinese-speaking natives of Hong Kong have been assigned as liaisons for the Asian American bettors. Jason Tsang and Wesley Poon are the only members of the casino’s “executive host” team who are dedicated to a specific ethnic group.

Tsang and Poon each have about 250 cli-ents whose betting levels gain them special attention.

Tsang tries to meet players’ needs, but doesn’t pressure them to gamble.

“They will play if they feel like it,” Tsang said. “My job is to take care of them.”

Poon said he provides a friendly face for those who often find it much easier and more comfortable to talk to other Asians.

William Nguyen, 47, of Vietnamese de-scent, is a Trumbull County business owner who says he sometimes calls Poon late at home, if he is too tired to drive home and needs a hotel room.

Ohio casino caters to Asian American gamblers


■ COMMUNITY CAlENdAR

King County is requesting Statements of Qualifications from qualified shipyard con-tractors with the ability to design, construct and deliver two (2) new 250-passenger, passenger-only ferries for the King County Ferry District.

The Request for Qualifications, all ad-denda and current document holder’s list are available on the internet at http://www.kingcounty.gov/procurement. The County will not mail, ship or fax RFQs or addenda.

Interested firms must register with the County at time of download and ensure that a valid contact email address is given. No-tification of addenda will be sent to the reg-istered email address. Failure to register will result in the respondent not being notified of any addenda, which may result in rejection of the proposal.

ContraCt title: King County Ferry District New Passenger Vessel Constructionnumber: E00282E12rFQ responses due: December 3, 2012time: 5:00 p.m. pre-statement oF QualiFiCations meeting: October 29, 2012 time: 9:30 a.m.loCation: Room 3D/3E, King Street Center, 201 S. Jackson St, Seattle, WA

summarY oF WorK: The County’s esti-mate of cost for design, construction, and post construction services for the contract is between $9 million and $12 million. The County requires turn-key vessels, fully equipped and complete in every regard, built in compliance with applicable regula-tory requirements, inspected and certified by the U.S. Coast Guard, and ready for pas-senger service by approximately the end of the third quarter of 2014.

This work is funded, in part, by the Fed-eral Transit Administration and applicable federal requirements apply.

subConsultant opportunities: Provid-ed for informational purposes only, following are subconsulting opportunities that may be available on this Contract: Vessel Construc-tion Electrical; Vessel Construction Piping

Questions: Questions concerning this solicitation should be directed to Gib Myers, Contract Specialist at 206-263-9323, TTY Relay: 711. The Proposer may be requested to submit the question in writing. No verbal answers by County personnel will be bind-ing on the County.

This information is available in alternate formats for individuals with disabilities upon advance request by calling 206-263-9400, TTY Relay: 711.

KING COUNTY REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS ADVERTISEMENT

THU 10/25

WHAT: Annual CIDBIA Ratepayer Meeting & OIS Town HallWHERE: Chong Wa Benevolent Association, 522 7th Ave. S., SeattleWHEN: 3:30–7 p.m.INFO: www.cidbia.org

SAT 10/27

WHAT: Buddhist Activism in MyanmarWHERE: Seattle Asian Art Museum, 1400 E. Prospect St., SeattleWHEN: 9:30–11 a.m.COST: $5–$86INFO: www.seattleartmuseum.org

WHAT: The 4th Annual Seattle Education ExpositionWHERE: Newport High School, 4333 Factoria Blvd. S.E., Bellevue

WHEN: 8 a.m.–3 p.m.INFO: www.myinspirasian.com

MON 10/29

WHAT: JCCCW’s tea ceremonyWHERE: JCCCW, 1414 S. Weller St., SeattleCOST: $10–$25REGISTRATION: www.jcccw.orgINFO: 206-568-7114, [email protected]

WHAT: Domestic Violence Awareness MonthWHERE: Madison St. overpass of I-5 in downtown SeattleWHEN: 7–8:30 a.m.INFO: 206-722-6057, [email protected]

MON 10/29 THRU FRI 11/2

WHAT: Evenings with Ai Weiwei: A UW Film SeriesWHERE: UW, Smith Hall,

Room 120WHEN: 7 p.m.COST: Free admission

THU 11/1

WHAT: 4G LTE Game Show presented by VerizonWHERE: Wing Luke Museum, 719 S. King St., SeattleWHEN: 7–10 p.m.INFO: www.thewing.org

FRI 11/2

WHAT: LIHI’s gala & auction, 10th AnniversaryWHERE: Hyatt at Olive 8, 1635 8th Ave., SeattleWHEN: 5:30 p.m.COST: $100/person, $1,000/table for 10TICKETS: www.lihi.orgINFO: 206-443-9935 extension 140, [email protected]

WHAT: An evening of Korean Arts & Culture, featuring the

Korean Changgeuk Institute, Soloist Hyeon Hee Park & The Performing Arts Troupe KKocdoosehWHERE: Asia Pacific Cultural Center, 4851 S. Tacoma Way, TacomaWHEN: 7 p.m.COST: $7RSVP: 253-383-3900INFO: www.asiapacificculturalcenter.org

WHAT: Sound Singers Japanese Choir presents Benefit ConcertWHERE: Japanese Baptist Church, 160 Broadway, SeattleWHEN: 7:30 p.m.INFO: [email protected], www.soundsingers.org

SAT 11/3

WHAT: Upland Peoples of Southeast Asia: Evading States for more than Two MilleniaWHERE: Seattle Asian Art Museum, 1400 E. Prospect St.,

SeattleWHEN: 9:30–11 a.m.COST: $5–$86INFO: www.seattleartmuseum.org

WHAT: Women of Courage: Braving New HorizonsWHERE: Fairmont Olympic Hotel, 411 University St., SeattleWHEN: 6 p.m.COST: $150TICKETS: www.brownpapertickets.com/event/245341INFO: 206-685-2940, [email protected]

WHAT: Sound Singers Japanese Choir presents Benefit ConcertWHERE: Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 215 W. Mukilteo Blvd., EverettWHEN: 7:30 p.m.INFO: [email protected], www.soundsingers.org


1221 S. King St. Seattle, WA 98144 206-720-0969Open daily: 8:30 a.m.–8 p.m. www.facebook.com/lamseafood www.lamsseafood.com

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Super goo d

By Andrew HamlinNORTHWEST ASIAN WEEKLy

“Ramayana,” A Contemporary Theatre’s adaptation of the Indian epic going back almost 2,000 years, runs roughly three hours, including intermissions. It tells a story of great loves, courage, battles against villains, and sacrifices, all interlaced with a warm helping of hu-mor.

The saga opens and closes, with the singing of one young boy, Akhi Vadari. Over the course of the saga, and between his songs, young Vadari dons one costume after another, at one point personifying an arrow shot from a mighty bow. His constant participation accentu-ates a certain through-line in the wide-spanning narra-tive. No matter what goes on at center stage, from fight-ing to lovers soothing each other, he keeps a watch from the edge of the action.

This production of “Ramayana” is written by yussef El Guindi and Stephanie Timm. It concentrates on Prince Rama (Rafael Untalan) and his beautiful bride Sita (Khanh Doan), who are both meant to sit on the throne vacated by Rama’s father Dasartha (Jim Gall).

But the couple find themselves exiled to a magical and dangerous forest, accompanied only by Rama’s faithful brother Lakshmana (Tim Gouran). Their quests bring them to join forces with Hanuman (Brandon O’Neill), the flamboyant leader of a tribe of monkeys.

The direction, by Shelia Daniels and Kurt Beattie, puts the action at the center of the stage, brightly deco-rated with Indian symbols courtesy of scenic designer Matthew Smucker. Actors run in and out of four en-trances and exits. They occasionally come and go via the aisles by the audience’s seats — so plan on keeping your seat once you claim it.

The three leads work together to stay on top of the re-lentless pace, with admirable results. As Prince Rama, Rafael Untalan must present a character that fights and wins, but is also modest and accepting, sometimes to what Westerners would consider a fault. He is always, even in extreme situations, willing to consider his op-ponent’s point of view and provide his opponent with a modicum of respect.

Khanh Doan’s Sita proves equally fiery as Untalan, never failing to remind her onstage husband that she too boasts an impeccable lineage and deserves respect. Her loyalty to her husband never wavers, even when his loy-alty to her seems to falter. Doan channels her passion into vivid speeches and set pieces, but she can also move as fluidly as any other actor or dancer in the ensemble.

As Lakshmana, Tim Gouran faces the tough task of always playing behind, and often walking behind, the two leads. He admires his brother Rama and indeed insists on following Rama into danger. The adversities faced by the trio, both together and separately, tests his resolve and his perspective, but never saps his inner strength.

A special mention goes to Brandon O’Neill, who plays the monkey man, Hanuman. Rushing into the

{see RAMAYANA cont’d on page 11}

By Charles LamNORTHWEST ASIAN WEEKLy

Jonathan Park’s debut album, DFD, was perfect. It showcased his velvety smooth, quick flow and was built on masterful production. It reached near mainstream status, hitting number 7 on Billboard’s Heatseekers chart as well as num-ber 24 on its Rap Albums chart and cemented Park’s place as one of youTube’s top emcees.

Park, also known by his stage name Dumbfoundead, released his sophomore album last Tuesday, Oct. 16.

It is not perfect. It is not even close.

Sophomore albums are always a little tricky, but, in this case, ev-erything that was good on DFD — the quick wit, the fast flow, the nice guy sound, the production — is completely gone. In its place is a disjointed effort with no cohesive sound, themes, or vision.

Take the Stares opens with “Stairs Intro,” a bite-sized, airy verse that delivers Dumbfoundead’s classic quick delivery. It’s a hope-ful opener and teases listeners with what could be. The image is quickly dashed with track two, S.C.R.a.M.

The transition is jarring. Light

synthesized horns and strings yield abruptly to a dark, harsh beat. Park’s verses are horrible — slow, basic, and simplistic. The distorted vocals used in the chorus are a fore-boding preview to the rest of the album, which is full of gratuitous voice manipulation that actually subtracts from some songs.

The next transition is just as harsh as the first. The third track, New Chick, is mellow and warm, which is nice, but it doesn’t belong after S.C.R.a.M. To make things worse, the lyrical content is contra-dicted later in the album.

There are some bright spots. Growing young, the first single

off the album, and Wine are tracks five and six and are a return to prior form. They feature perfectly produced, simple beats buoyed

{see DUMBFOUNDEAD cont’d on page 11}

{DUMBFOUNDEAD cont’d

■ ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Dumbfoundead can’t ‘Take the Stares’By Rama’s bow

We supportCongressman Jay Inslee

as the next governor of Washington State

Kim and Kathy ChinnEvelyn Yenson

Arlene OkiMichael IttiPaige Miller

Ruthann KuroseVera & Joel IngJoan Yositomi

Ruth WooJulie Locke

Henry & June ChenBang & Tona Hwang

Joan & Pi-Chu LaiKim & Kathy Chinn

Kip TokudaBob Santos

Sharon TomikoRobert & Alice McIntyre

Pat & Jeremy Chen

www.jayinslee.com

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By Samantha TestNORTHWEST ASIAN WEEKLy

The Slants, a Portland-based crew of five Asian Americans, put on an energetic, sweaty,

and intense head-nodding-to-the-beat rock show last Saturday night, Oct. 20 at the

Columbia City Theater. The band played songs off of their latest project, third

album “The yellow Album,” which won’t be released until Nov. 6.

Lead singer Aron Moxley claims that they “put on one of the best live shows ever.” Based on the reaction of the 75-plus person crowd Sat-urday night, he might be right.

“The energy’s there, the heart is there, all you have to do is bring a pair of ears and a pair of great dancing shoes!” Moxley continued. “Re-

ally, we put our heart and soul into it and love to have fun with everyone there.”

They call their sound “Chinatown Dance Rock.” It’s a blend of 80s-style synth pop and more modern rock and dance music.

“Modern new wave with a hard rock and punk influence,” said Thai Dao (guitar/keyboards). “The Bravery with more balls. Depeche Mode meets The Ramones meets The Faint.”

The band has been compared to The Killers, Neon Tree, She Wants Revenge and Depeche Mode.

The title track off the new album is “yellow,” a name that has roots in the band members’ heri-tage — all are of Asian Pacific Islander descent.

“This is my favorite work of music I’ve done by far. I’m really proud of it,” said Simon young (bass). “I think we’ve come a long way in terms

of songwriting. It’s still fun for me to listen to and I’ve heard it endlessly on repeat while we were working on it - that’s always a great sign.”

Drummer Tyler Chen said all the songs reflect the lives of the band members “in brutal hon-esty.”

young agreed, “I think all of the songs pres-ent a picture of real life experiences, from feel-ing like an outsider to finding love. We’re real people with real feelings that everyone can relate to. We just try and package it in a way that’s fun, meaningful, and danceable.”

The song “Adopted” is an example of how front man Moxley lays out his personal qualms to share with fans.

“I was one of the babies born in Saigon during the Vietnam War. I’ll never know my real

birthday, let alone find out who my mother is

or know if she’s still alive,” he said.While the band uses their heritage, and com-

mon stereotypes about that heritage, to stand out, they hope an Asian American rock band one day is conventional.

“The benefit of being an all Asian-American band is that we stand out as being unique,” said Chen.

“However, the challenge is that many people have preconceived notions of what we’re going to sound like when they hear about us, and some-time don’t even make the effort to listen to our music for the first time.”

It normally takes only one listen for people to change their minds.

{see THE SLANTS cont’d on page

13}

■ ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

The Slants are not a gimmick

The Slants are a band based in Portland, Ore. made up of purely Asian and Pacific Americans. The Slant’s music is strong and energetic, providing for exciting shows.

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The recent controversy involving the Seattle Times publisher’s support of Republican gu-bernatorial candidate Rob McKenna by giving free advertising worth over $70,000 puzzles a little publisher like me.

Small papers like the Asian Weekly look up to The Seattle Times. They’re our role models for high journalistic standards and ethics. Once, a Times journalist and I had lunch, I reached to pay for the bill.

“Times doesn’t allow that,” she replied. So we split the bill.

years ago, I approached a Times photogra-pher to judge the Miss Chinatown pageant. He told me that the Times had strict ethics guide-lines that would not let him participate if there would be perception of partiality.

With the recent scandal, does the Times owner believe he can set a different standard for himself? Is it worth risking the destruction of their history of integrity, respect, and cred-ibility simply because he wants to help his fa-vorite candidate win?

We publishers fail to do the right thing at times when we only remember that we are run-ning a business and not a newspaper, when we interpret the newspaper as a weapon and not a tool, when we decide that our ego is more im-portant than the public, when we want to prove that our medium is better than other mediums, when we are frustrated that the Internet and

television are getting all the advertisement rev-enue, when money is the end result and not the quality of the product.

I have to confess that I have encountered temptations about not placing the public trust first. Here are some lessons I have learned from my experience.

1. Say “no” to politiciansSeveral years ago, one of the Seattle City

council members invited me to introduce her at her re-election campaign kick off. Initially, I felt flattered and was tempted to say yes.

“Let me just check,” I told her.“you know better than that,” my editor said,

shaking her head when she heard the news. My editor was right. If it wasn’t an election event, it would have been fine, but because it was for her re-election, it would have been inappropri-ate for me to speak on her behalf, even though the official is my friend

2. Learn to let goThere are many outstanding candidates who

are also my friends. The temptation to help them beat their opponents, especially the hor-rible ones, is strong. But journalists donating to politicians or getting involved in campaigns compromises their integrity. Some broadcast journalists have been fired because they do-nated to their preferred candidates.

I have had to force myself to step back from candidates that I would love to support many times. Instead, I give moral support through voting or endorsements, or speak to friends about these candidates. Were there times when I wanted to give them more in my newspapers? Of course. Those questions of “Should I?” or “Shouldn’t I?” often agonize me. But, after more thought, I come to my senses before the paper goes to press.

3. I am no big shotWhenever we take photos of celebrities, they

often invite me to be in the picture with them. Of course there are dignitaries that I would love to be photographed with, but I often have to back away.

I remind myself, “you are not part of the news,” and, more importantly, “you are not a big shot!” It is my golden reminder.

yes, my treasures include photos with Vice President Joe Biden at the White House, with former Commerce Secretary Gary Locke, now U.S. Ambassador to China, with the late Wash-ington Post Publisher Katherine Graham, and many others. However, I don’t want to show off in the paper.

My staff knows better. Whenever they see me in a group photo, they just crop me out before they place it in the paper. I call it wise judgment.

4. Resist getting free mealsWhen we dine at Asian restaurants, many of

them don’t give us the check after we eat. We appreciate the gesture, but insist on paying.

I have to threaten the owners a little.“If you don’t give us the check, I won’t eat

at your restaurant again.” Or, “If you don’t let us pay, I won’t be able to write about your res-taurant.”

It works.

5. Label paid adsSometimes, advertisers persuade us to print

their article as if it were our own. Our rule is to state the source if we are not the writers. If the article looks like an ad, we rather it say, “Paid advertisement,” so readers can distinguish whether or not it is an advertorial.

6. We cannot accept all adsMy staff can overrule me in rejecting ads

when they feel it is not in the best interest of the paper. I am easily persuaded if they give me sound reasons.

Publishers are human, too. We often encoun-ter a lot of temptation. I credit my employees for providing me with insight and perspective that I have never thought of. Sometimes, there are a lot of gray areas, and we just have to talk them over to get the best solutions.

OPINION■ COMMENTARY

■ PUblISHER’S blOg

Want to get the inside scoop

on the latest happenings of

Seattle’s Asian American

community? Follow Publisher

Assunta Ng’s blog at nwasianweekly.

com under the Opinion section.

Temptations facing a newspaper publisher

By Assunta NgNORTHWEST ASIAN WEEKLy

In contrast to the star chefs’ demonstra-tions at the Asian Counseling & Referral Ser-vice benefit gala on Oct. 6, David Ma walked onto the stage without any fanfare. But, de-spite this, the first words he spoke caught the audience’s attention. He revealed his 30-year struggle of fighting to change his dark think-ing into an untarnished mind.

“I am a person who once lived under the control of mental illness,” said Ma, an im-migrant from Hong Kong. “However, these days, I control it.”

Speaking in Mandarin through a transla-tor, Ma’s simple yet powerful words sur-prised me. Because of the stigma Asian cul-tures have toward mentally ill patients, I had never seen an Asian immigrant dare to speak publicly to a room of 300 strangers and admit that he was once crazy and that he at one time needed a shrink.

“At the age of 16, I began acting out in an-ger and paranoia,” Ma said. “I didn’t know why at the time, and my parents just asked me to go lose temper outside, rather than at home.”

I suspect most Asian parents can’t handle kids with mental illness. Most lack knowl-edge to seek help for their children.

When Ma was 20 years old, he heard voices. The voices called him “stupid … a pig, and worthless.” Those voices continued when he emigrated to the United States in

1977. He thought people were following him and wanted to attack him.

Later, he found help from ACRS. Even asking for mental health help for

Asian Americans takes courage, since so much stigma is attached to those seeking psy-chiatrists. This explains why Asian Ameri-cans “have the lowest utilization rate for mental health services among all populations, regardless of gender, age, and geographical

location,” according to the Francis Lu’s ar-ticle in Western Journal of Medicine, “The poor mental health care of Asian Americans.”

The counselor taught him to meditate to re-duce the voices and how to call 911. Ma also learned to study his favorite books and he would write down his favorite English words and sentences to distract himself from the voices.

Ma also experienced depression and sui-

cidal thoughts during his challenging journey.How did he stand up every day and figure

out the difference between what was real and what was delusional?

His counselor taught Ma reality checks. Whenever he felt someone was following him, he looked around to see if there was any-one. If there was no one, it was his delusion, and he could just ignore it.

How did he not let the past haunt him?“Through a structured lifestyle,” Ma said.

He meditates, visits the library, reads news-papers, and takes walks. Most importantly, “I help others,” Ma said.

Today, Ma is the co-facilitator for ACRS’s Chinese support group for those who hear voices. Talking about his past liberates him from fear and distress. By serving others, Ma found his purpose in life. Helping those who need support actually enhances his own re-covery.

“you don’t have to be extraordinary to do extraordinary things,” Nelson Mandela, for-mer president of South Africa, once said.

I had never met Ma until Oct. 6. His four-minute speech was inspiring and genuine. If I were to name someone for “the man of cour-age” award this year, it would be David Ma.

David, thank you for your efforts to heal yourself and heal others, and your immense courage to speak out to help those who cannot speak for themselves.

Assunta Ng can be reached at [email protected].

Dealing with mental illness in the Asian community

David Ma on stage at the Asian Counseling and Referral Service benefit gala.

What killed Elaine Akagi, president of the Japanese American Citizens League Seattle chapter? Selflessness. A former educator, Akagi was the co-chair for the group’s national convention at the Bellevue Hyatt Hotel last July. She was sick while working on the convention, but her selfless attitude pushed her to continue giving and serving the community.

The last time community members saw Elaine Akagi was Aug. 16 at

the Four Seas Restaurant. It was supposed to be a dinner to see her off for her cancer treatment. No one knew then that it was a farewell dinner.

Akagi passed away last Thursday, Oct. 18 in Maryland. We will remem-ber Akagi as the hardworking, generous, and thoughtful leader of the Asian community. May I suggest JACL dedicate a scholarship in her name.

Remembering Elaine Akagi


OPINION■ COMMENTARY

The only weekly English-language newspaper serving Washington’s Asian community. The NW Asian Weekly has one simple goal:

“To empower the Asian community.”

The Editorial Board reserves the right to reject any advertisement, letter or article. Subscriptions cost $30 for 52 weeks of the NW Asian Weekly and $25 for 52 weeks of the

Seattle Chinese Post. The NW Asian Weekly owns the copyright for all its content. All rights reserved. No part of this paper may be reprinted without permission.

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By Rahul GuptaAPACE BOARD MEMBERON BEHALF OF APACE

Asian and Pacific Islander Americans have several beliefs in common. Our families need to be strong, our elders need security, and our children deserve a fair shot at a prosperous future. Our proud

history as Americans and Washingtonians is what keeps us focused on making our communities stronger by fighting for fair housing laws, affordable and quality healthcare, livable wage jobs, and a quality education. Our businesses are the backbone of our success.

Today, we are at a point in our history where we have the opportunity to make our voice stronger and louder. Our com-munities have more than doubled in population since 1990. Nearly 250,000 APIs are eligible to vote in Washington (ac-counting for nearly one in 10 voters). Sadly, however, fewer

than half of APIs are registered to vote.Asian Pacific Islander Americans for Civic Empowerment

(APACE) and a broad coalition of community partners are working to strengthen our community by registering, educat-ing, and mobilizing eligible voters. When ballots are delivered later this month, a strong API vote could change the outcome of elections that matter to us. The API community needs to select candidates who will support our interests and be held accountable to our values in Olympia and Washington, D.C.

Too many candidates and media outlets have ignored our concerns this election. It’s a shame when the resignation of a Rob McKenna campaign staffer who posted disparaging remarks about Asians and senior citizens on Twitter is, argu-ably, the most attention any API issue received this election season.

With the election less than a month away, we are reminded that API voter participation increased only 4 percent from 2004 to 2008, according to national statistics. This year, API voters are expected to turn out nationally like never before

and we believe Washington state can set a high bar for the rest of the country to follow.

We need to keep pushing our successes. In King County, the state’s most-inhabited county, the API population has al-most tripled in the past two decades and it helped to create the first majority people of color congressional district and three of the four majority people of color legislative districts around the state (the 11th, 33rd, and 37th).

Our growing API population in Washington state can claim its voice by registering and exercising our rights as voters and Americans. While electronic registration is over, first time registrants may still register to vote at their local elections of-fice until October 29th. Participating fully in our democracy, and in our communities, is essential to building a strong base and voice in Olympia and Washington, D.C.

Only then will the real issues we all face be more important than a Twitter post.

APIs need to vote

Rahul Gupta

{RAMAYANA cont’d from page 8}

narrative one-third of the way through, he immediately commands the audience’s un-divided attention. He’s undeniably a self-serving rascal, but he brings wit, charm, and a winning physicality to the role, whether he’s dancing, bouncing, bounding, or dangling from a rope dropped from the ceiling.

The production certainly features a great deal of warfare, both personal and political. But it always explains everyone’s point of view, vilifying no one, not even the worst of the worst. Each character, “Ramayana”

says, has a story. Everyone has a reason to believe and act as they do, and that should always be taken into consideration, that may be its most lasting lesson.

“Ramayana” plays through Sunday, Nov. 11th, at A Contemporary Theatre (ACT), 700 Union Street at the Washington State Convention & Trade Center. For tickets, showtimes, and other information, call 206-292-7676 or visit wwww.acttheatre.org.

Andrew Hamlin can be reached at [email protected].

from page 8}

by strong vocal performances. Though they’re not as addicting as many

of the tracks on Park’s debut album, but they are strong enough to stand on their own right.

Unfortunately, they’re quickly overshad-owed by Korean Jesus, the second single and the epitome of all that is wrong with this al-bum. The track features a heavy, obnoxious beat and an unimpressive vocal performance that screams “on trend hip hop.” It sounds as if Park abandoned his own style to emulate Tyga or Drake only to lack the multi-symbolic rhyme schemes that make them so impressive.

Even featured talent wasted. “It’s Not you,” the ninth track, features youTube star David Choi’s soft and textured vocals. Unfortunate-ly, his strong performance is squandered by a beat that is needlessly complicated. The por-tion of the song where Choi’s vocals appear unbacked at, hands down, the best.

Take the Stares ends with “Word,” a com-forting end as comfortable as a pity hug fol-lowing a broken heart. It features percussive and fast delivery layered over a beat that right-ly takes the back seat, but, just like that hug, all it does is briefly and bitterly remind you of something that no longer exists.

Take the Stares is weak. It’s fractured. It feels like pieces of three separate albums glued to each other haphazardly. The transi-tions don’t transition, the themes contradict, and, ultimately, it just can’t take the stares.

For more information and to purchase “Take the Stares,” visit www.dumbfoundead.com.

Charles Lam can be reached at [email protected].

Jonathan Park


Thank you for recycling this newspaper!

{USS cont’d from page 1}

other smaller Asian nations facing the sea.The visit will likely reassure Vietnam

and the Philippines of American support, but could annoy China, whose growing economic and naval strength is leading to a greater assertiveness in pressing its claims there. The United States is building closer economic and military alliances with Viet-nam and other nations in the region as part of a “pivot” away from the Middle East to Asia, a shift in large part meant to counter rising Chinese influence.

The Vietnamese officials took photos of F-18 fighter jets taking off and landing on the ship’s 1,000-foot-long flight deck, met the captain, and toured the hulking ship, which has more than 5,000 sailors on board.

The mission came a day after Beijing staged military exercises near islands in the nearby East China Sea it disputes with U.S ally Japan. Those tensions have flared in re-cent days.

China claims nearly all of the South China Sea, where the United States says it has a national interest in ensuring freedom of navigation in an area crossed by vital shipping lanes. Vietnam, the Philippines, and several other Asian nations also claim parts of the sea. The disputes attracted little international interest until the late 1990s, when surveys indicated possible large oil reserves. American rivalry with China has given the disputes an extra dimension in re-cent years.

The U.S. Navy regularly patrols the Asia Pacific region, conducting joint exercises with its allies and training in the strategic region. The trip by the George Washington off the coast of Vietnam is its third in as many years. A second aircraft carrier, the USS John C. Stennis, has also been con-ducting operations in the western Pacific region recently, according to the U.S. Pa-cific Fleet.

Capt. Gregory Fenton said the mission was aimed in part at improving relations with Vietnam and ensuring the United

States had free passage in the South China Sea.

China’s military buildup, including the launch of its own carrier last year and rapid development of ballistic missiles and cy-ber warfare capabilities, could potentially crimp the U.S. forces’ freedom to operate in the waters. The United States doesn’t publicly take sides in the territorial disputes among China and its neighbors.

“It is our goal to see the region’s nations figure out these tensions ... on their own, our role of that to date is to conduct free-dom of navigation exercises within interna-tional waters,” Fenton said in an interview on the bridge.

Although claimant countries have pledged to settle the territorial rifts peace-fully, the disputes have erupted in violence in the past, including in 1988 when China and Vietnam clashed in the Spratly Islands in a confrontation that killed 64 Vietnam-ese soldiers. Many fear the disputes could become Asia’s next flash point for armed conflict.

Vietnam is pleased to accept help from its one-time foe America as a hedge against its giant neighbor China, with which it also tries to maintain good relations.

Still, the Hanoi government reacted an-grily to recent moves by Beijing to estab-lish a garrison on one of the Paracel islands, which Vietnam claims. The United States also criticized the move by Beijing, earning it a rebuke from the government there.

“China will take this (cruise) as another expression by the United States of its de-sire to maintain regional domination,” said Denny Roy, a senior fellow at the East-West Center in Hawaii. “The U.S also wants to send a message to the region that it is here for the long haul ... and that it wants to back up international law.”

While most analysts believe military confrontation in the waters is highly un-likely anytime soon, they say tensions are likely to increase as China continues press-ing its claims and building its navy.


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, 2001Horse 1918, 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002 Goat 1919, 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003 Monkey 1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004 Rooster 1921, 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005 Dog 1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006 Pig 1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007

*The year ends on the first new moon of the following year. For those born in January and February, please take care when determining your sign.

RATThose who know you well understand that you have an independent streak that runs deep. However, you tend to be selective on when you choose to display it.

OXSpending too much time on chores at the end of the week? Instead of cleaning all at once, try spreading it out over time.

TIGEREven little bad habits can add up to trouble if you aren’t careful. Take care of these issues before it reaches that point.

RABBITRelying on inaccurate or outdated material may result in a poor decision. Get educated with current information.

DRAGONWondering how it could be is different from lamenting about what should have been. One looks forward, while the other looks back.

SNAKEIf you borrow something from a friend, return it in the same condition and in a timely manner.

HORSEDo you feel as though everyone wants a piece of you today? It is perfectly acceptable to pick and choose the projects you want.

GOATAn act of kindness warms your heart. A little thoughtfulness goes a long way, so pass on the good feelings by doing something nice for someone else.

MONKEYGood looks will only carry you so far. The rest of the way must be traversed with well-honed assets.

ROOSTERResist the inclination to overindulge in a particular food just because its health benefits have been touted.

DOGThere is nothing like a looming deadline to get you moving, though it will be to your benefit to act deliberately rather than hastily.

PIGIt is all well and good to stop and smell the roses, but don’t linger too long if you have things you need to get done.

For the week of October 27–November 2, 2012

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 [email protected].

■ ASTROlOgY

Architects, Consultants & ContractorsKCLS Library Contract Information Available Online!

Check www.kcls.org/buildings for information about KCLS construction and the latest available

details on current and pending projects.Requests for Proposals•Requests for Qualifications•Current Project Bid Listing•Call for Art Proposals•Site Selection Policy•

Announcements of Finalists•Community Meetings•Contacts•New Releases•

The King County Library System recognizes strength and value within our communities, and we encourage all interested and qualified service providers to review

our public bid construction opportunities.

Contact Kelly Iverson, Facilities [email protected] or 425.369.3308

Attorney James C. Buckley

Attorney Paul B. Apple

Attorney Edward J. Hemingway

Attorney Efrem R. Krisher

Attorney Ronal Unger

Attorney Erica B. Buckley

Attorney Christine Kim

Seattle Office675 S. Lane St. Suite 300Seattle, WA 98104Office: (206) 622-1100Toll free: (800) 404-6200Fax: (206) 622-0688

Tacoma OfficeWells Fargo Plaza Suite 1400Tacoma, WA 98402(appointment only)

www.buckleylaw.net

Our Attorneys & Staff Proudly Serving the Community

Quick Settlements!2-4 months after treatment for most cases

Back & neck injuries

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Home & hospital visits availableParalegal: Mary Zhu206-622-1100 Toll Free: 1-800-404-6200Cell: 206-920-6721 Office Direct Line: 206-957-1203Mandarin, Cantonese, and Tai Shan speaking

Our law firm has recovered

over $180 million for

clients

Member of the Million Dollar Advocates ForumSelected as Super Lawyer

Member of Several Bar Associations

{THE SLANTS cont’d from page 9}

“We get a lot of people who say ‘I didn’t expect for this band to rock the way it does! I hope that doesn’t sound bad, and I’m not saying you sound good for Asians, you guys just sound good!’” said Dao. “I like that we shatter someone’s pre-conceived notion of how good a band of all Asian guys can be. On the other hand, I’d love to be in a world one day where those preconceptions are gone.”

The Slants do things their own way. Like when it turned down a sure million-dollar contract.

The band competed in the Bodog Music Battle of the Bands in 2008. They placed first in every round of the competition, winning the chance to be on a Fuse TV reality show in addition to a one million dollar recording contract. However, when the band learned that the contract was non-nego-tiable and that they had to sign to even finish the competition, they walked away.

Since then, they’ve carved their own path for themselves.

“We’re the only band that tours anime/geek conventions, plays in prisons, do shows for troops serving overseas, play cultural festivals, and per-form at rock clubs...sometimes in the same month. We’ve created our own niche and I wouldn’t have it any other way,” said young.

A more recent battle the band has won was against the United States Patent and Trademark Office. A government attorney claimed the band’s name was disparaging to Asians.

“It was like banging our head against the wall, trying to convince someone that we were not of-fensive to ourselves, that the community was in overwhelming support of our band,” said young.

They won the battle and have been able to keep their name.

“I remember that we received some criticism early on for putting our pan-Asian heritage on our sleeve but that certainly anything that we’re ashamed of. Like anything else in life, people will make assumptions about you and what you’re do-ing. Our band is a testament to the idea that it’s possible to overcome those kinds of challenges. I like to say that the best kind of revenge is to do well, to prove the naysayers that they were wrong.”

The Slants new album, The Yellow Album, will be released Nov. 6. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/theslants.

Samantha Test can be reached at [email protected].


phone 360-725-5667fax 360-586-9501

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{FORUM cont’d from page 1}

Participants of the discussion spotlighted the importance of education catering to minority children, the need for proper training and retraining for teachers, and the role of the com-munity in caring for children. The importance of disciplinary record keeping was mentioned multiple times.

“It’s important that we not only keep track of the reasons why our kids are disciplined, but also that we keep track of where they ultimately end up,” said a young Black man during the discussion.

A lion’s share of the blame for the unresponsive school sys-tem was placed upon the legislature, though State Representa-tive Sharon Tomiko Santos (D-37), who was present and is the chair of the Education Committee, did not agree.

She said that while the grievances expressed by the discus-sion had merit, they matched those that the Education Com-mittee had identified. She stressed that while the legislature had some failings, it is also up to the local school boards to shape local school policy.

After a brief break, the attendees moved to the auditorium, where the candidate forum was to be held.

The attendees prepared questions for moderator Essex Por-ter of KIRO 7 to ask the gubernatorial candidates. They in-cluded such topics as charter schools, marijuana legalization, and minority business.

Democratic candidate Jay Inslee was first to answer ques-tions on stage, followed by Republican Rob McKenna. They were not on stage at the same time, nor did they publicly in-teract.

For the most part, they reiterated their well-worn positions with occasional personal stories to illustrate their positions.

Inslee highlighted his time visiting Seattle-area schools when asked about improving education for minority children. He said that class sizes were too high to properly engage all children and that much of that stress fell on newly minted teachers. He proposed lowering class sizes, primarily in the early grades to help better prepare children to learn, and re-cruiting more teachers from minority communities — both were solutions which were specifically addressed earlier, dur-ing the legislative discussion.

When asked the same question, Rob McKenna spoke on the importance of funding early education preparation programs. Both candidates agreed on a move to all-day kindergarten.

Both candidates’ campaigns are ramping up for the last two weeks before the election.

For more information about Jay Inslee, visit www.jayinslee.com. For more information about Rob McKenna, visit www.robmckenna.org.

Charles Lam can be reached at [email protected].

TOP CONTRIBUTORS TO THE ASIAN COMMUNITY

Friday, Dec. 7, 2012 • 6 p.m.China Harbor Restaurant

2040 Westlake Ave. N., Seattle206-286-1688


“Secret Asian Man” comic books are now available at the Kinokuniya bookstore in Seattle.

Want to become a fan on Facebook

or follow us on Twitter?

Visit www.nwasianweekly.com.

{EDITORIAL cont’d from page 1}

The Northwest Asian Weekly has decided to endorse neither candidate.

Instead, we present their pros, cons, and stances or major issues, so those who are undecided can make a decision on their own.

U.S. SenatorMaria Cantwell

U.S. Representative District 7Jim McDermott

U.S. Representative District 9Adam Smith

Lieutenant GovernorBrad Owen

Secretary of StateKathleen Drew

State TreasurerJim McIntire

State AuditorTroy Kelley

Attorney GeneralBob Ferguson

Commissioner of Public LandsPeter J. Goldmark

Insurance CommissionerMike Kreidler

State Senator District 11Bob Hasegawa

State Representative District 11 Position 1Zack Hudgins

State Representative District 11 Position 2Steve Bergquist

State Representative District 32 Position 1Cindy Ryu

Initiative Measure No. 1185 Require a two-thirds legislative vote to

raise taxes.

NOThis initiative would only increase the

legislative gridlock in Olympia and limit the resources that the legislature will

have to work with.

Initiative Measure No. 502 Legalize and tax recreational marijuana

use for those over 21.

NOThough there are some good arguments why marijuana should be legalized, such

as lowering enforcement costs, Washington should not serve as a guinea pig.

King County Proposition 1

APPROVEInitiative Measure No. 1240Create a public charter school system.

NO

Senate Joint Resolution 8221Lower the state debt limit.

APPROVENo appreciable negatives. Makes

Washington’s debt more stable and manageable. Wide bipartisan support.

City of Seattle Proposition 1

APPROVESenate Joint Resolution 8223Allow the University of Washington and Washington State University to invest its funds, including in private companies.

APPROVEIncreases the funds available to both university systems with very little risk as investments will be handled by the

separate State Investment board.

Referendum Measure No. 74Legalize same-sex marriage.

APPROVE

ME

ASU

RE

SEL

ECT

ED O

FFIC

IALS

State Representative District 32 Position 2Ruth Kagi

State Representative District 24 Position 1Eileen L. Cody

State Representative District 36 Position 2Gael Tarleton

State Representative District 37 Position 1Sharon Tomiko Santos

State Representative District 37 Position 2Eric Pettigrew

State Representative District 43 Position 2Frank Chopp

Supreme Court Justice Position 2Susan Owens

Supreme Court Justice Position 8Steve Gonzalez

Supreme Court Justice Position 9Sheryl Gordon McCloud

Court of Appeals Judge Division 1 District 1 Position 4Ronald E. Cox

Court of Appeals Judge Division 1 District 1 Position 7Marlin Appelwick

King County Superior Court Judge Position 42Christopher A. Washington

King County SheriffSteve Strachan

Jim McDermott

Sharon Tomiko Santos

Christopher A. Washington

Steve Gonzalez

Frank Chopp

Ruth Kagi

Kathleen Drew

Jim McIntire

Eric Pettigrew

Adam Smith

Bob Hasegawa

Eileen L. Cody

Mike Kreidler

Bob Ferguson

Steve Bergquist

Brad Owen Cindy Ryu

Gael Tarleton

Zack Hudgins

Sheryl Gordon McCloud

Peter J. Goldmark

Maria Cantwell

vol 31 no 44 | october 27 - november 2

Documents