![]() Happy New Year! My biggest learning from 2009: when all seems lost, how you overcome and move forward is a true testament to your ability, character and courage. Admittedly, 2009 was a challenging year for many people across our country, myself included. But I feel I am a stronger and better person for it, and it has set me up for some positive goals and changes, as we head into 2010. What are your new year’s resolutions? This month, we welcome the talented Gwendoline Yeo to Denver as she performs her one-woman hit, “Laughing With My Mouth Wide Open”. On January 16th, she will share her vivid and humorous story about growing up with Chinese immigrant parents in San Francisco, at the Ricketson Theatre. We’d like to congratulate the Denver Zoo for its groundbreaking of the Asian Tropics exhibit. We will stay up-to-date as its creation progresses and look forward to its official opening in two years. Also, a big congrats to Pacific Ocean Marketplace for the celebration of its 18th Anniversary in 2010. The supermarket will be providing 288 prizes to its customers and giving away a brand new car mid-February. Visit either location to fill out an entry form! Last month, Mary Schultz did some extensive research and investigating on Japanese sake here in Denver. She provides an article sharing the basic need-to-knows about sake, and also the best places to get sake in town. Organizations celebrated the holidays in all different ways, and Asian Avenue magazine was “on scene” in order to share them in this issue. The Denver Parks and Recreation held its annual Mayor’s Gala Ball with Miss Asian American Colorado, Erika Tanaka, as the special guest. The Indonesian community held both a fundraising event for victims affected by the Indonesian earthquake last September, as well as a holiday party to celebrate their culture through art and music. Denise Gliwa also shares her trip to China with the Nathan Yip Foundation, a very touching story about this Denver-based non-profit organization. Lastly, we would like to invite you to our 2nd Annual Lunar New Year Dinner with our Joy of Living Club. It will be held on Friday, January 29th at King’s Land Seafood Restaurant. More information on page 10. We hope to see you there! Annie Guo President, Asian Avenue magazine |