2001 Asian Pacific American Heritage Month Calendar

Richard M. Daley, Mayor

City of Chicago

Clarence N. Wood, Chair

Commission on Human Relations

William Yoshino, Chair

CCHR Advisory Council on Asian Affairs

Naisy Dolar, Director/Community Liaison

CCHR Advisory Council on Asian Affairs

Unless otherwise specified, all activities take place in the city of Chicago and Chicagoland area and are free of charge and open to the public. (Events are subject to change, you may wish to call to confirm.)

Common abbreviations and addresses:

AHS Asian Human Services

APA Asian Pacific American

BL Branch Library

CCC Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E. Washington St. (at Michigan Ave.)

CCHR Chicago Commission on Human Relations

CCM Chicago Children’s Museum, 700 E. Grand Ave., Navy Pier

CMAA Chinese Mutual Aid Association, 1016 W. Argyle St.

CPL Chicago Public Library

HWLC Harold Washington Library Center, 400 S. State St.

JASC Japanese American Service Committee, 4427 N. Clark St.

JRTC James R. Thompson Center, 100 W. Randolph St.

OCA Organization of Chinese Americans, Chicago Chapter

May Exhibits, Displays and Month-Long Performances

Chicago Public Library Exhibits/Displays

Taiwanese artifacts

Harold Washington Library Center, 400 S. State St.

Merlo BL, 644 W. Belmont Ave.

Origami by Caroline Dombrowski, a member of the Chicago Area Orgami Society

Mt. Greenwood BL, 11010 S. Kedzie Ave.

Asian poetry with Origami, art prints, Chinese lanterns and a paper dragon.

Sulzer Regional Library, 4455 N. Lincoln Ave.

“Treasure of Asia and the Pacific” includes two framed Asian print triptychs, print making tools and other decorative arts.

Humboldt Park BL, 1605 N. Troy St.

“Asian Kites in Folk Tales”

Oriole Park BL, 5201 N. Oketo Ave.

Asian artifacts and books on famous Asian-Americans with.

Roosevelt BL, 1101 W. Taylor St.

For more information on the above CPL exhibits or displays, please call Portia Johnson at 312.747.2805 or Marita Chuang at 312.746.5656.

Children’s Stories from India - Family Read Along

CCM, 2 p.m.

A family read-along introduces different children’s books from India. Stories are read in English. Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sundays only. Museum Admission Fee: $6.50. Sponsor: Chicago Children’s Museum. Call Elaine Bentley, 312.464.7691.

Cultural Connections - Toy and Games from India

CCM, 2 p.m. - 3 p.m.

Spin a top, win at marbles or surround your opponent in a game of Tigers and Goats. Wednesdays and Fridays only. Museum Admission Fee: $6.50. Sponsor: Chicago Children’s Museum. Call Elaine Bentley, 312.464.7691.

May 1 - June 15

Voices of Shakti - The Ongoing Struggle

DePaul University - The John T. Richardson Library, 2350 N. Kenmore Ave.,

7 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Exhibition Tour: Monday-Thursday: 8 a.m. -midnight; Friday: 8 a.m. -9 p.m.; Saturday: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Sunday: noon-midnight. Call 773.325.7864.

May 1 - May 4

Asian American Heritage Exhibition

JRTC, Atrium Level, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Exhibits from organizations representing various Asian American communities are featured. Sponsor: Office of the Governor George H. Ryan. Call Jimmy D. Lee, 312.814.2121.

May 7 - May 12

Asian American Art Exhibition

JRTC, Atrium Level, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

The Ramayana Institute of America features works based on the Ramayana stories of India, Cambodia, Thailand and Indonesia. Sponsor: Office of the Governor George H. Ryan. Call Jimmy D. Lee, 312.814.2121.

May 12 - May 28

Chinatown Lantern Display

Chinatown Sq., Wentworth Ave., Cermak Rd.

According to Chinese tradition, businesses decorate storefronts with lanterns to wish for prosperity. Cultural performances in Chinatown Square include such traditional Chinese folk dances as the lion dance, music, and martial art displays. A promotional coupon booklet allows savings at participating business during May. Call the Chamber for where to get a booklet. Sponsor: Chinatown Chamber of Commerce. Call Erica Chung, 312.326.5320, .

May 12 - May 19

The Art Exhibition

Vietnamese Association of Illinois, 5252 N. Broadway Ave., 2^nd Flr.

Water Paintings by Lu Tong Dao. Sponsor: Vietnamese Association of Illinois, Tam Duc Nguyen, 773.989.6170, .

May 21-26

Asian American Festival 2001

Daley Plaza, 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

A festival showcases cultural performances and a market full of Asian ethnic cuisine as well as arts and crafts. Performances are given Monday through Friday at noon. A cultural procession and celebration is scheduled on Saturday, May 26. Sponsors: Asian American Festival Committee, Asian American Coalition, Mayor’s Office of Special Events and CCHR Advisory Council on Asian Affairs. For more information call Evelyn Natividad at 773.342.0906.

Tours

Saturday, May 12

EastMidwest - The Chicago Asian Experience

CCC, 10:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

The unique cultures of Chicago’s expansive Asian communities are explored through stories and creative cuisine. This tour includes lunch. Admission Fee: $50.00 for adults; $45.00 for seniors over 65, children 8-16, and students with valid ID. Sponsor: Chicago Neighborhood Tours. Call 312.742.1190, .

Wednesday, May 23 & Thursday, May 24, 2001

Third Annual Circuit Court of Cook County Courthouse Tours

Circuit Court of Cook County, Richard J. Daley Center, 50 W. Washington St.

Tour departs from West Lobby (Randolph & Clark Streets) at 10:00 a.m.

(Please arrive by 9:45 a.m.)

Highlights of this tour include a visit to a courtroom to observe a trial in

process and the opportunity to meet with a judge of the Circuit Court for an

informal presentation. Sponsors: Chief Judge Donald P. O'Connell, the Asian American Bar Association of the Greater Chicago Area, the Chinese American Bar Association, the Filipino-American Bar Association, the Indian American Bar Association, the

Korean American Bar Association and the judges of the Circuit Court of

Cook County. Individuals or groups planning on attending may contact Vida Gosrisirikul, Asian American Community Liaison for the Office of the Chief Judge at (312) 603-3402. Please RSVP by May 17, 2001.

Sunday, May 27

Argyle Tour ( also known as “New Chinatown”)

AASBA office, 5023 N. Broadway Ave., noon - 2:30 p.m.

East meets West for good food at a good price. Included is a brief overview presentation of the community and its heritage followed by an ethnic (Chinese) lunch at Sun Wah and a walking tour through the most interesting and colorful Southeast Asia shopping center of the Midwest. Admission Fee: $10.00. Sponsor: Asian American Small Business Association of Chicago. Please call to confirm, 773.728.1030.

Events

Tuesday, April 24

Asian American Business Awards

Lawry’s Prime Rib, 100 E. Ontario St., 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.

Awards reception honors local Asian Americans in the following categories: Young Entrepreneur, Professional, Service Business, Manufacturer, Business Person of the Year and Business Partner of the Year. Admission Fee: $60.00. Sponsor: Asian American Alliance. Call Christine Takada, 312.326.2200, .

Friday, April 27

A Collection of Short Plays: “Asians In America - Again”

JASC, 8 p.m.

A collection of short plays by Asian American playwrights is performed.

Admission Fee: $10.00. Sponsor: North Avenue Productions and Angel Island Theatre, Call 773.973.7293.

Saturday, April 28

JASC Health Screening

JASC, 9 a.m. - noon

A blood test screening is given for diabetes, cholesterol, liver function, kidney function, electrolytes. Sponsor: Japanese American Service Committee. Call Sharon Harada or Kay Kawaguchi, 773.275.0097.

A Collection of Short Plays: “Asians In America - Again”

JASC, 8 pm.

See April 27 description.

Sunday, April 29

“Three Non-Blondes” and More

Dozo Sushi and Lobster Restaurant, 100 E. Walton St., 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.

Angel Island Theatre Company 2001 Spring Benefit. Admission Fee: $35 and up (sponsorships available). Sponsor: Angel Island Theatre Company. Call Quincy Wong, 773.973.7293.

A Collection of Short Plays “Asians In America - Again”

JASC, 3 p.m.

See April 27 description.

Monday, April 30

“Reproductive Rights: Perspectives of Asian American Women”

Law Offices of Skadden Arps Slate Meagher & Flom, 333 W. Wacker Dr., Suite 1900,

5:30 p.m - 7:30 p.m.

Sujata from Apna Ghar shares information concerning South Asian American women focus group discussions on reproductive choice. The focus groups were funded by CFW under the Reproductive Rights Initiative. This program seeks to broaden the circle of Asian American women and girls who are involved with CFW and to address issues of interest to the communities. Sponsor: Chicago Foundation for Women (CFW) Asian American Women’s Leadership Council. Call Deirda Lucas, 312.266.1176, .

Tuesday, May 1

The 2001 APA Heritage Month Kick-off and Commemorative Bookmark Release

Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave. , 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

OCA-Chicago and FOX Chicago TV host a press conference and release party.

Sponsor: Organization of Chinese Americans, Inc. Greater Chicago Chapter. Call 312.458.0832, .

The Seventh Annual Asian American Career Fair 2001 (AACF 2001)

Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT), Grover M. Herman Hall, 3241 S. Federal St.

10:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.

AACF 2001 builds bridges between Asian American students/professionals and employers to help candidates find ideal jobs. Sponsor: Asian Market Advertising Corp. and IIT. Call David Zhang, 312.808.1206,

Tai Chi Class

JASC, 1 p.m. - 2 p.m.

A daily vacation from the stresses of life is possible through the practice of a peaceful exercise often called meditation in motion. Tai Chi offers benefits for health, flexibility and peace of mind.

Sponsor: JASC. Call Sharon Harada or Kay Kawaguchi, 773.275.0097, .

Wednesday, May 2

Governor’s Asian Pacific American Heritage Kick-off

JRTC, Atrium Level, noon.

This event celebrates Asian American Heritage. Sponsor: Office of the Governor George H. Ryan. Call Jimmy D. Lee, 312.814.2121.

Mayor Richard M. Daley Asian Pacific Heritage Month Reception

CCC-GAR Hall Rotunda, 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

The Chicago Commission on Human Relations Advisory Council on Asian Affairs hosts a by-invitation reception celebrating Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. Call Naisy Dolar at 312.744.4479.

Thursday, May 3

Reflexology for Stress Management and Pain Relief Presented by Christina Singh-Taylor

South Shore BL, 2505 E. 73^th St., 6:30 p.m.

The main focus of Dr. Singh-Taylor, a Minister of Healing and Doctor of Divinity, is natural healing and the metaphysical overcoming of illness. The theory of reflexology is presented and a demonstration follows. Sponsor: Chicago Public Library. Call Charlotte Chung Sook Kim, 312.747.4212, .

Experience India!

CCM, 6:30 p.m. - 7:15 p.m.

Classical Indian dance with Prianita and Kalapriva tells stories through hand gestures and body movements. Sponsor: Chicago Children’s Museum. Call Gladys Hadsen - Guerra, 312.464.7676.

Opening Program of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month

Edgebrook BL, 5331 W. Devon Ave., 7 p.m.

Ki-Hyun Im plays the Korean instrument, “gayakum,” My Tran sings Vietnamese folk songs, and Kerry Leung plays Chinese classical music on bamboo flute. Janice Yang and Guang Long Li of the Yellow River Performing Arts play Night Songs from Fishing Boats on the classical Chinese instruments, “zheng” and “erhu”. Sponsor: Chicago Public Library. Call Charlotte Chung Sook Kim, 312.747.4212,

Friday, May 4

Kevin So - Free Lunchtime Concert

Ralph H. Metcalfe Federal Building, 77 W. Jackson Blvd.,GSA Conference Center, 3^rd Flr., Room 331, Noon - 1 p.m.

This Boston recording artist draws upon his Chinese-American heritage and blends folk, blues, R&B and jazz influences into original songs. Sponsor: Federal Asian Pacific Employee Council. Call Dolly Tong, 312.886.1019, .

3^rd Annual Congressional Reception

Ralph Metcalfe Federal Building, 77 W. Jackson Blvd., 3^rd Floor, Room 331,

5:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

A reception honors Asian Pacific American Heritage Month with cultural programs and food. Sponsor: Congressman Bobby L. Rush and his Asian Advisory Council. Call Younus Suleman, 708.422.4055, .

Accessibility of Jobs - The Asian American Perspective

DePaul University, DePaul Center, Room 8005, 5 p.m. - 7 p.m.

This roundtable discussion concerns employment issues facing Asian immigrants and provides information about United Way funded agencies that serve the needs of Asian Americans. Paul Igazaki, Vice Chair, U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, will be one of the panelists. Sponsor: Asian American Community Outreach Committee of United Way. For more information contact Jan Rector at 312.575.2585 or Jim Kales at 312.906.2393. RSVP: 312.575.2653.

8^th Annual Asian American Film Festival

Loyola University Chicago, Crown Center Auditorium, 7 p.m.

Admission $5; free to Loyola community. For more info call 773.508.2935 or visit

Saturday, May 5

Chinese Cooking - Dim Sum Presented by Andrew Comens

Lincoln Park BL, 1150 W. Fullerton Ave., 11 a.m.

Mr. Comens has taught the art of cooking at various branches of the Chicago Public Library. A cooking demonstration will be followed by a tasting. Sponsor: Chicago Public Library. Call Charlotte Chung Sook Kim, 312.747.4212, .

Origami Presented by Jerry Marciniak

Bezazian BL, 1220 W. Ainslie St., 11 a.m.

Learn various traditional origami arts. Origami is the Japanese art of folding paper into decorative objects. The history of traditional origami dates back to at least the 17^th century. (For children age 9 and up). Sponsor: Chicago Public Library. Call Charlotte Chung Sook Kim, 312.747.4212, .

20^th Anniversary Celebration

CMAA, Noon - 3 p.m.

CMAA celebrates 20 years of service to the immigrant and refugee community with cultural performances, special awards, and the unveiling of a new mural in the Youth Center. Sponsor: CMAA. Call Sarah Councell, 773.784.2900, .

JACL Scholarship Luncheon

Wilmette Park District Golf Course, “Terrace Restaurant” 12 p.m .- 3 p.m.

Annual awards luncheon honors deserving high school graduates from the Japanese American Community. Reservation required. For more info call Lillian Yamada, 773.728.7171, .

Sumi-e, Japanese Ink Painting Workshop

JASC, 12:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Individualized instruction in Sumi-e, the ancient art of Japanese ink painting is provided. Beginners learn to use Japanese painting equipment and employ basic techniques. Fee: $25 - $35, RSVP required. Sponsor: JASC, Sharon Harada/Kay Kawaguchi, 773.275.0097;

Taiwanese Folk Dance & Fashion Show Presented by Ann Lin

Wrightwood-Ashburn BL, 8530 S. Kedzie Ave., 1 p.m.

Performed by high school students, this program displays the beauty and gracefulness of Taiwanese culture. Sponsor: Chicago Public Library, Charlotte Chung Sook Kim, 312.747.4212, .

Art and Life of Chiura Obata

Heiwa Terrace, 920 W. Lawrence Ave., 1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

A slide presentation given by Kimi Kodani Hill covers her grandfather Chiura Obata’s art and life. He taught art classes at the University of California at Berkeley prior to World War II and at Tanforan and Topaz during internment. Kimi recently published Topaz Moon, Chiura Obata’s Art of the Internment. Sponsors: Chicago Japanese American Historical Society and the Illinois Association of Museums. Call Alice Murata, 773.463.4631, or Jean Mishima, 847.998.8101,

Poetry Reading Presented by Iftikar Nasim

HWLC, Chicago Author’s Room, 2 p.m.

The acclaimed East Indian poet will read and discuss his poetry. Sponsor: Chicago Public Library . For more information call 312.747.4700.

Tai Chi Presented by Lynn Baumhardt

Uptown BL, 929 W. Buena Ave., 2 p.m.

Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese exercise to achieve inner peace and rejuvenate the body. Ms. Baumhardt has practiced Tai Chi for 24 years and has taught the art for 16 years. Theories and demonstration are followed by simple warm-up exercises with participants. Sponsor: Chicago Public Library. Call Charlotte Chung Sook Kim, 312.747.4212, .

Traditional Martial Art and Self-Defense Presented by Greg Garrett

Mabel Manning BL, 6 S. Hoyne Ave., 2 p.m.

One of the head instructors of the Peace School teaches martial arts and the techniques of self defense. While the actions are dynamic and powerful, emphasis is placed on art as opposed to competition or fighting. The class is for men, women and children. Sponsor: Chicago Public Library. Call Charlotte Chung Sook Kim, 312.747.4212, .

Sing Me a Story presented by Nicole Allgood

Legler BL, 115 S. Pulaski Rd., 2 p.m.

This program combines three favorite children’s activities: music, literature and movement. Asian folk tales are introduced by a professional storyteller. (For preschool and early elementary ages) Sponsor: Chicago Public Library. Call Charlotte Chung Sook Kim, 312.747.4212, .

Masks and Folktales from Asia presented by Lea Atiq

Edgebrook BL, 5331 W. Devon Ave., 2 p.m.

Ms. Atiq is a storyteller and artist who creates masks and costumes which she wears when she presents enchanting Asian folk tales. The storytelling is accompanied by music and dance. (For Children age 7 and up) Sponsor: Chicago Public Library. Call Charlotte Chung Sook Kim, 312.747.4212, .

Ribbon Weaving Art Presented by Ginger Cheung

Austin BL, 5615 W. Race Ave., 2 p.m.

The class demonstrates how to make ribbon fish and birds. Participants will make ribbon fish. (For children age 7 and up) Sponsor: Chicago Public Library, Charlotte Chung Sook Kim, 312.747.4212, .

Origami Presented by Stephanie Spetter

Scottsdale BL, 4101 W. 79^th St., 2 p.m.

Participants are invited to learn the various traditional origami arts. Origami is the Japanese art of folding paper into decorative objects. The history of traditional origami dates back to at least the 17^th century. (For children age 9 and up) Sponsor: Chicago Public Library. Call Charlotte Chung Sook Kim, 312.747.4212, .

Reflexology for Stress Management and Pain Relief Presented by Christina Singh-Taylor

Woodson Regional Library, 9525 S. Halsted St., 2:30 p.m.

See May 3 description.

Bonsai, a Study in Harmony Presented by Roger D. Thompson

Independence BL, 3548 W. Irving Park Rd., 2:30 p.m.

Theory and styling techniques are explained with Bonsai examples. Sponsor: Chicago Public Library. Call Charlotte Chung Sook Kim, 312.747.4212, .

8^th Annual Asian American Film Festival

Loyola University Chicago, Crown Center Auditorium, 7 p.m.

Admission $5; free to Loyola community. For more info call 773.508.2935 or visit www.luc.edu/depts/diversity

Sunday, May 6

Kodomo Do Hi, Festival for Children

Christ Church of Chicago, 6047 N. Rockwell, 12:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

This celebration includes Japanese crafts, games, anime films, Kamishibai-storytelling, and a ticket to “The Very Hungry Oni”. Admission Fee: $6/child, $18/family. Sponsor: Christ Church of Chicago. Call Susan Takaki, 847.256.9182,

Monday, May 7

Ribbon Weaving Art Presented by Ginger Cheung

Brainerd BL, 1350 W. 89^th St., 3 p.m.

See May 5 description.

Origami Presented by Jerry Marciniak

Hall BL, 4801 S. Michigan Ave., 4 p.m.

See May 5 description.

Kites of Asia Presented by Charlie Sotich

Oriole Park BL, 5201 N. Oketo Ave., 6:30 p.m.

Mr. Sotich is an experienced artisan who has provided kite making programs for various branches of the Chicago Public Library. In this class, many forms of Asian kites are displayed and discussed. (For children age 9 and up) Sponsor: Chicago Public Library. Call Charlotte Chung Sook Kim, 312.747.4212, .

Illinois State Treasurer Judy Baar Topinka Asian Pacific Heritage Month Reception

JRTC, Concourse Level, 5:45 p.m.- 8:00 p.m.

The reception honors outstanding community leaders who have contributed to the

economic, cultural, political and social fabric of the State of Illinois.

Cultural performances are offered and authentic Asian food is served. This reception is open to the public. Call Nadja Lalvani at 312.814.1244.

Tuesday, May 8

AARP-55 Alive Driver’s Ed Class (in Japanese)

JASC, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Completing this two-session (8 hours) course in reviewing rules of the road and defensive driving will earn participants a certificate, which may (depending on their insurance companies) be used for a reduction on their car insurance rates. Admission Fee: $10.00 (Checks payable to AARP) RSVP required. Sponsor: Japanese American Service Committee, Sharon Harada or Kay Kawaguchi, 773.275.0097, .

Tai Chi Class

JASC, 1 p.m. - 2 p.m.

See May 1 description.

Ribbon Weaving Art Presented by Ginger Cheung

Blackstone Branch, 4904 S. Lake Park Ave., 2 p.m.

See May 5 description.

Wednesday, May 9

Rules of the Road Review Course (in Japanese)

JASC, 10 a.m. - noon

The purpose of this class is to prepare new drivers to acquire their Driver’s license and assist those who wish to renew licenses.

Sponsor: Japanese American Service Committee. Call Sharon Harada or Kay Kawaguchi, 773.275.0097, .

Health Care Needs in the Asian American Community

Uptown National Bank, 4753 N. Broadway Ave., 1^st Fl. Conference Room, 10 a.m. -11:30 a.m.

Jing Zhang, Ph.D. makes a presentation concerning the health needs in the Asian American community and discusses plans for the Asian Human Services Family Center. Sponsor: Asian Human Services. Call Jing Zhang, 77.728.2235 ext. 52.

Sing Me a Story Presented by Nicole Allgood

Sulzer Regional Library, 4455 N. Lincoln Ave., 6:30 p.m.

See May 5 description.

Kites of Asia Presented by Charlie Sotich

Archer Heights BL, 5055 S. Archer Ave., 6:30 p.m.

See May 7 description.

Origami Presented by Joshua Koppel

Brighton Park BL, 4314 S. Archer Ave., 7 p.m.

Learn the various traditional origami arts. Origami is the Japanese art of folding paper into decorative objects. The history of traditional origami dates back to at least the 17^th century. (For children age 9 and up) Sponsor: Chicago Public Library. Call Charlotte Chung Sook Kim, 312.747.4212, .

Thursday, May 10

AARP-55 Alive Driver’s Ed Class (in Japanese)

JASC, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

See May 8 description.

“From a Woman’s Eye”

DePaul University - John T. Richardson Library, 2350 N. Kenmore Ave., 3 p.m. - 6 p.m.

Skits and dances explore violence against women and seek to empower them in conjunction with “The Voices of Shakti.” Sponsor: Apna Ghar, Inc. Call Seema Sabnani, 773.334.0173, .

Ribbon Weaving Art Presented by Ginger Cheung

Coleman BL, 731 E. 63^rd St., 4 p.m.

See May 5 description.

Origami Presented by Jerry Marciniak

Chicago Bee Branch, 3647 S. State St., 4 p.m.

See May 5 description.

Masks and Folktales from Asia Presented by Lea Atiq

Jeffery Manor Branch, 2401 E. 100^th St., 5 p.m.

See May 5 description.

Chinese Music and Dance

CCM, 6:30 p.m. - 7:15 p.m.

An evening of Chinese music and dance is performed by the youth performing group of the Chinese American Service League. Sponsor: Chicago Children’s Museum. Call Gladys Hansen-Guerra, 312.464.7676.

Voices of Shakti - The Ongoing Struggle

DePaul University - The John T. Richardson Library, 2350 N. Kenmore Ave., 7 p.m. -

9 p.m.

An exhibit tour and discussion is held in the Haber Lounge, Room 400. Call 773.325.7864.

Friday, May 11