THE APPA Newsletter

Dec 18, 2007

See This Weekend

 

Last newsletter of the year, see you in January

 

MISSION STATEMENT:

Promote full utilization of the capabilities of the Enterprise's employees and champion the betterment of the company and community. Promote interest in Asian Pacific issues and culture and act as a bridge to all groups within our community. (substitute in your Enterprise and company, etcÉ)

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ed. by Douglas Ikemi

(dkikemi@pacbell.net)

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Back issues of the newsletter for all of 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, and 2006 are available at http://www.ikemi.info/APPA/newsletters.html if you want to look up some past event. The website www.apa-pro.org no longer exists. This newsletter was originally published under the auspices of the Hughes Asian Pacific Professional Association (no longer extant). It currently has no affiliation and is available to anyone who is interested in downloading it.

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Please send in information on cultural events and news items to dkikemi@pacbell.net or dkikemi@mac.com . Thanks to those who have.

 

Long range calendar items:

 

Chinatown Farmers Market EVERY THURSDAY FROM 2-6PM, the Chinatown Farmers' Market takes place at Hill & Alpine bringing fresh fruits and produce by California Farmers to the Chinatown Community. FRIED BANANA, FRIED YAM, HAWAIIAN CHICKEN. We invite you to come and experience the Chinatown Farmers' Market. Free parking with purchase.

 

The Downtown Arts District/Little Tokyo Farmers' Market

Weller Court 2nd & San Pedro in

Little Tokyo Summer Hours 10-3pm

Features fresh produce, Hawaiian Chicken, more food gifts...and live jazz band.

Tuesdays from 10 a.m.- 3 p.m.

The weekly market is held every Tuesday from 10 a.m.- 3 p.m year round, rain or shine.

Sponsored by LARABA the market will include farm-fresh produce, Asian produce, organic produce, eggs, seafood, cheese, olives, olive oils, flowers, plants, bread and prepared foods and more.

Hawaiian Chicken, Roasted corn on the cobb

Local businesses interested in having a prepared food booth at the market or individuals interested in volunteering at this non-profit event, please contact Susan Hutchinson at 323-660-8660 for more information

 

Los Angeles Public Library Celebrates our DiverseCity

http://www.lapl.org/kidspath/events/diversecity/index.html

 

GIANT ROBOT BIENNALE: 50 Issues

November 3, 2007 - January 13, 2008

In celebration of its 50th issue and in collaboration with the Museum, the pop-culture magazine Giant Robot has assembled works by ten cutting-edge artists from around the country. Janm.org

 

October 12, 2007 - January 21, 2008

Rank and Style : Power Dressing in Imperial China

For generations ChinaÕs rulers wore emblems on their robes that identified their place in a complex system of rank and privilege. This exhibition explores how this imperial hierarchy was maintained through the bestowing and wearing of exquisitely woven and embroidered Ôrank badges,Õ as they have become known in the West.

Identity and status, so carefully crafted and preserved among ChinaÕs elite, were expressed primarily through garments and their decoration, making them virtually a second skin Ð so intimately connected to oneÕs person that even in death wearing the appropriate badge assured a continuation of earthly status. The exhibition is rich in a wide variety of rank and festival badges worn by the emperor, members of the imperial household, and civil and military officials.

Rank and Style: Power Dressing in Imperial China presents for the first time in the United States selections from the Chris Hall Collection of Hong Kong. These rare and exquisite rank badges date from 1500 to the mid-19th century, with many from the Ming Dynasty (1368Ð1644). Numerous badges feature woven or embroidered mythical creatures such as the dragon and phoenix, while others depict rabbits, cranes and tigers. Additional pieces in the exhibition are drawn from the collections of the Pacific Asia Museum and local collections.

Dale Gluckman, Guest Curator

This exhibition will be part of the fourth city-wide collaboration of PasadenaÕs cultural institutions, ÒArt and Ideas.Ó

Related Events

Saturday, November 3, 2007, 1-4pm,

Free Family Festival

In celebration of the new exhibition Rank and Style: Power Dressing in Imperial China, this all-ages festival will focus on activities related to Imperial Chinese culture and the symbolism of dragons, birds, lions, tigers, flowers and lanterns in works of art.  Free.

46 North Los Robles Avenue, Pasadena California 91101 [Google Map]

Hours: Wed Ð Sun: 10:00am-6:00pm

www.pacificasiamuseum.org

 

*NOVEMBER/DECEMBER

Chinese American Museum, El Pueblo de Los Angeles, www.camla.org

Jake Lee exhibit opens.

THE CHINESE AMERICAN MUSEUM AND AUTO CLUB GIVE LEGENDARY CALIFORNIA PAINTER DAY IN SUNSHINE

California Artist Fused Chinese Heritage with California Scenes

(LOS ANGELES, Oct. 31, 2007) ÐÑ Jake Lee, a highly respected, yet quiet and enigmatic painter who influenced numerous other artists in California for decades, has not been the subject of a major retrospective, until now. ÒSunshine & Shadow: In Search of Jake LeeÓ an exhibition hosted by the Chinese American Museum of Los Angeles, co-produced with the Automobile Club of Southern California, marks the first comprehensive and critical review of a prolific artist who embraced California landscapes and city scenes through watercolor.

Showcasing at the Chinese American Museum (CAM) from Dec. 1 to April 13, 2008, ÒSunshine & ShadowÓ will highlight more than 60 watercolors, including eight from the Auto ClubÕs WESTWAYS cover art collection. The collection will also illustrate with photos and letters more details of the artistÕs professional career and his family life, which he kept distinctly separate for many years. 
ÒJake Lee is among the most well known and prolific watercolor artists of the 20th Century, yet we found very little published about his personal life as we researched this exhibition,Ó said Dr. Pauline Wong, Executive Director of the museum. ÒWe had no problem locating his art and his influence Ð it lives in collections throughout the state and in the hearts of his many students. But it was more challenging to find the man. We believe this exhibition and catalogue will result in new appreciation for his artistic production and his influence.Ó

*SPRING 2008

Corky Lee exhibit opens.

http://camla.org/

 

JANUARY 2008

Sunday, January 6 2008, 1pm

KOTOHAJIME

First Performance of the New Year: Hatsu Mukashi (FirstÐLong Ago) Created by Hirokazu Kosaka

Both solemn and festive, the closing of an old year and the beginning of a new one are viewed as a time of reflection as well as festivity. Kotohajime is the JACCCÕs annual celebration featuring both traditional and contemporary performances in observance of the New Year. This yearÕs Kotohajime celebration includes a unique collaborative performance arranged and led by Hirokazu Kosaka. Viewing Los Angeles as the contemporary Silk Road, where the routes for commerce, culture, language, and art intermingle as they migrate, the performance combines an eclectic blend of traditional and contemporary arts.

JACCC Plaza Free Admission

Japanese American Cultural and Community Center

244 South San Pedro Street, Suite 505

(between 2nd and 3rd Streets)

Los Angeles (Little Tokyo), CA 90012

(213) 628-2725

www.jaccc.org

 

January 6 Ð February 24, 2008

10TH Annual SHIKISHI Exhibition

One of the most interesting and popular annual exhibitions in Los Angeles returns to mark its 10th year. The exhibition is open to anyone with a creative spark who looks to express their hopes for the New Year through the shikishi. This year's exhibit continues to showcase shikishi signed by dignitaries, and will feature art work based on this yearÕs theme Hatsu Mukashi (FirstÐLong Ago) as well as references to the Year of the Rat, the animal which sits atop the 12-year Lunar Calendar cycle.

George J. Doizaki Gallery/ North Gallery Free Admission

George J. Doizaki Gallery Hours Tuesday Ð Friday 12noon to 5pm Saturday & Sunday 11am to 4pm Closed Mondays and holidays

Japanese American Cultural and Community Center

244 South San Pedro Street, Suite 505

(between 2nd and 3rd Streets)

Los Angeles (Little Tokyo), CA 90012

(213) 628-2725

www.jaccc.org

 

Sunday, January 06, 2008

Family Festivals

Oshogatsu Family Festival & First Sundays are For Families

11AM-4PM

FREE, no reservations required

Ring in the New Year with fun arts and crafts, whimsical tales, and exciting performances at the National Museum. This year's festival will feature a special activity created by Giant Robot.

Visitors will also receive free admission to MOCA's ©Murakami exhibition as a part of their "First Sundays are For Families" program by checking in at the "For Families" table (1:00 Ð 3:30 PM).

In conjunction with the exhibition Giant Robot Biennale: 50 Issues

JAPANESE AMERICAN NATIONAL MUSEUM

369 East First Street

Los Angeles, California 90012

phone: (213) 625-0414

fax: (213) 625-1770

 

Saturday, January 12, 2008

Art, Culture, & Identity

Giant Robot Artist Roundtable

Free with museum admission 2PM

Join the artists of Giant Robot Biennale: 50 Issues for a roundtable discussion moderated by Eric Nakamura. Light refreshments will be served following the program.

This event is sponsored by Imprint Culture Lab.

In conjunction with the exhibition Giant Robot Biennale: 50 Issues

JAPANESE AMERICAN NATIONAL MUSEUM

369 East First Street

Los Angeles, California 90012

phone: (213) 625-0414

fax: (213) 625-1770

 

 

Sunday, January 13, 2008

Partnerships & Collaborations

Teens of Contemporary Art (TOCA)

3-5PM

FREE, no reservations required

Teens are invited to explore art and materials at MOCA's ©Murakami and the National Museum's Giant Robot Biennale: 50 Issues, then try their own hand at painting and silkscreening.

For additional information on TOCA, call 213.633.5310 or email dgray@moca.org.

In conjunction with the exhibition Giant Robot Biennale: 50 Issues and ©Murakami at MOCA's Geffen Contemporary.

In conjunction with the exhibition Giant Robot Biennale: 50 Issues

JAPANESE AMERICAN NATIONAL MUSEUM

369 East First Street

Los Angeles, California 90012

phone: (213) 625-0414

fax: (213) 625-1770

 

Wednesday  January 16 2008 7pm

Hogaku First time in the US!

New Sounds from Japan Wariki and Goto & Obama

This group of innovative emerging artists from Japan transcends time and place to lead the audience on a journey back to the roots of Japanese music and push the restraints of their traditional training to present an energetic musical exploration.

Aratani/Japan America Theatre $20 General Admission $15 JACCC Members, Seniors and Students

Japanese American Cultural and Community Center

244 South San Pedro Street, Suite 505
(between 2nd and 3rd Streets)

Los Angeles (Little Tokyo), CA 90012

(213) 628-2725

www.jaccc.org

 

Saturday January 19 2008 12:40pm

Hana no Kai

HisamiWakayagi with Guest Artists from Japan Wakayagi Kikosaemon and Wakayagi Sanjyuro

Special Guest Keiko Yonamine and her Okinawa group

This concert offers a rare opportunity to experience Japanese traditional dance and Okinawa dance as Mme.Wakayagi reprises ÒShizuhatabiÓ from her triumphant performance at the National Theater of Japan this past October. Special guest artist Keiko Yonamine and her colorful troupe will showcase the beauty and grace of Okinawa Ryu-kyu dance.

Aratani/Japan America Theatre $35 General Admission

Aratani/Japan America Theatre $20 General Admission $15 JACCC Members, Seniors and Students

Japanese American Cultural and Community Center

244 South San Pedro Street, Suite 505
(between 2nd and 3rd Streets)

Los Angeles (Little Tokyo), CA 90012

(213) 628-2725

www.jaccc.org

 

Saturday, January 19, 2008

Unfinished Business by Steven Okazaki

REDRESS REMEMBERED

2PM

(Part 1 of 2)

Screening of Academy Award nominated documentary about coram nobis cases. Special tour of Common Ground with Prof. Mitch Maki to follow.

JAPANESE AMERICAN NATIONAL MUSEUM

369 East First Street

Los Angeles, California 90012

phone: (213) 625-0414

fax: (213) 625-1770

www.janm.org

 

Saturday, January 26, 2008

Lifelong Learning

Little Tokyo Walking Tour

10:15AM-12:15PM

Relive history, learn about present-day Little Tokyo with National Museum docents. $8 Members; $13 non-members, includes Museum admission. Comfortable walking shoes and clothes recommended. Weather permitting.

JAPANESE AMERICAN NATIONAL MUSEUM

369 East First Street

Los Angeles, California 90012

phone: (213) 625-0414

fax: (213) 625-1770

www.janm.org

 

Sunday January 27, 2008 9am

4th Annual Kyokushin Karate U.S. Weight Category Karate Championship Competitors from ten countries come to represent the diversity and spirit of Kyokushin Karate. Competition opens with (Kata) to Knockdown Fighting (Kumite) leading up to the all weight category finals. For information contact Kyokushin Karate L.A Branch at www.kyokushinkaratela.com or call (877) 662-7947

Aratani/Japan America Theatre $40 VIP, $20 General Admission

Aratani/Japan America Theatre $20 General Admission $15 JACCC Members, Seniors and Students

Japanese American Cultural and Community Center

244 South San Pedro Street, Suite 505
(between 2nd and 3rd Streets)

Los Angeles (Little Tokyo), CA 90012

(213) 628-2725

www.jaccc.org

 

February 16 2008 Award-winning taiko virtuoso Shuichi Hidano celebrates his 20th anniversary as a taiko artist with his first concert in Los Angeles. Hidano has captivated audiences in over 20 countries with his innovative approach to rhythm and dynamic beats.

Some of LAÕs premier jazz, Latin, and rock studio musicians along with special guests on koto and shamisen join Hidano as well as a 30-member group from the Taiko Center of Los Angeles.

Saturday  8pm Aratani/Japan America Theatre

$25 General Admission $22 JACCC Members

For more information, call (626) 307-3839

www.taikocenter.com

 

 

See LA Library DiverseCity events at http://www.lapl.org/kidspath/events/diversecity/index.html

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This Weekend (and earlier/later)            

 

Thursday, December 27, 2007 10am & 3pm

Friday December 28, 2007  10am & 3pm 2008

Year of the Rat ChildrenÕs Oshogatsu Workshops

Celebrate the coming of 2008 during this one-day workshop learning about the symbols and traditions surrounding Oshogatsu or Japanese New Year. Learn about this special holiday celebration through hands-on craft activities and workshops as well as demonstrations led by local artists and community members. Workshops are designed for children ages 7 to 12.

Registration is limited to 30 participants per session, pre-registration is required and will be filled on a first come first served basis. For more information or to register, please contact Jessie Kikuchi at (213) 628-2725 ext. 142 or jkikuchi@jaccc.org.

JACCC, Second Floor Conference Rooms $30 per child $25 JACCC Members

 

Saturday, December 29, 2007

Little Tokyo Walking Tour

10:15AM

Relive history and learn about present-day Little Tokyo with National Museum docents on this historic walking tour. $8 for National Museum members and $13 for non-members, includes Museum admission. Reservations along with comfortable walking shoes and clothes are recommended. Weather permitting.

JAPANESE AMERICAN NATIONAL MUSEUM

369 East First Street

Los Angeles, California 90012

phone: (213) 625-0414

fax: (213) 625-1770

www.janm.org

 

January 1st, 2008 New Year's Celebration in Little Tokyo

"Oshogatsu in Little Tokyo"   

At  Weller Court, Onizuka Street and Japanese Villege Plaza

Food Kiosk, Culture Booths and more!

Traditional Oshogatsu Performances on Stage

Please Sign-Up For Volunteers!

Please contact JCC Office

(213) 626-3067

(213) 626-3070

office@jccsc.com

Committee Chair

Carl Kawata

 

 

 

 

Last weekend (or so) I went to: 

 

 

 

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Links to selected articles from the LA Times. To actually access the articles, you may have to sign up for a free account.

 

A lesson in diversity

One of L.A.'s first magnet schools shows what the court battle was all about.

By Mitchell Lansdberg, Los Angeles Times Staff Writer

December 13, 2007

http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-magnet13dec13,1,7632051.story?ctrack=1&cset=true

 

Kuroda expects to feel pressure

Pitcher says at a news conference that the $35.3-million contract he signed with the Dodgers would be 'unthinkable' in Japan.

By Dylan Hernandez, Los Angeles Times Staff Writer

December 17, 2007

http://www.latimes.com/sports/la-sp-dodgers17dec17,1,3398609.story?ctrack=2&cset=true

 

A note of foreboding for Peking opera

The 200-year-old Chinese art form, with its painted faces and pageantry, now draws mostly tourists and aging stalwarts. The government launches an effort to save it.

By John M. Glionna, Los Angeles Times Staff Writer

December 17, 2007

http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/world/la-fg-opera17dec17,1,1300696.story?ctrack=4&cset=true

 

Diplomacy through music

The New York Philharmonic's North Korea concert is the latest cultural outreach.

By Anne Gearan, Associated Press

December 17, 2007

WASHINGTON -- China had its pingpong players, the Soviet Union its ballet dancers, Iran its soccer players.

http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/la-et-diplomacy17dec17,1,1589216.story?ctrack=5&cset=true

 

McCain wants interrogation that precludes torture

The presidential hopeful tells a graduating class that harsh methods 'are not American tools, and the easy way is not the American way.'

From the Associated Press

December 16, 2007

http://www.latimes.com/news/printedition/asection/la-na-mccain16dec16,1,4674050.story?ctrack=6&cset=true

 

South Korean campaign gets an L.A. twist

Korean Americans can't vote or contribute to candidates, but their backing is sought to influence friends and family back in South Korea.

By K. Connie Kang, Los Angeles Times Staff Writer

December 18, 2007

http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-korean18dec18,1,7758536.story?ctrack=8&cset=true

 

 

Emotions don't reach S. Korea voters

The country prepares to replace its unpopular president this week, but the lack of fervor is palpable.

By Bruce Wallace, Los Angeles Times Staff Writer

December 15, 2007

http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/world/la-fg-korea15dec15,1,5368520.story