Summer happenings are running “fast with class” as some like to call it, as extraordinary exhibits and programs are presented with style for all to enjoy. The Asian Art Museum of San Francisco is currently presenting the exhibit Tibet: Treasures from the Roof of the World — a landmark exhibition showcasing nearly 200 rare objects never seen before in a Western world exhibit.
Opening night was a sensational affair as elegantly dressed patrons sipped champagne and dined on fine hors d’oeuvres and a filet mignon dinner, while dancing and enjoying the lavish artwork and treasures from Tibet. This exhibit will run until Sep. 11.
A nice tribute was made by Doris Shoong and Theodore Lee, who generously contributed the funds for the Opening Gallery. Other patrons included Linda and David Lei, Angela Han, Martha Hertelendy, Dr. Edmund Jung, Dr. Haw Chan Jung, Sue Chee, Ada Tom, Goretti and Lawrence Lui, Maura Morey, Judy Wilber, Judge and Mrs. Ming Chinn and many others.
With construction on the campus, and neither room nor studio for rehearsals, the award-winning Foothill College Repertory Dance Group went on and presented its annual dance exhibition and performance, titled “In the House” on June 3 and 4.
Under the direction of Foothill’s brilliant director Bubba Gong, nearly 100 students performed traditional Asian dances, fast hip-hop, modern dancing, dirty dancing, ballet, mambo, Latin dances and Middle Eastern dances with storytelling, smoothness and style.
At the 54th Annual San Francisco Chinatown Lions Club Annual Celebration, vision, care and new leadership were emphasized with millennium co-presidents Dan Ng and Teresa Chu installed as well as Macy Mak installed Lions President. Handling emcee duties were Felix Chu and Eugene Chan. A Mediterranean dinner and exotic belly-dancing followed at the Luxor Club in Daly City, June 12.
Over in the East Bay, the 37th Annual Family Bridges Social Services Fundraising Dinner and Auction took place at the Marriott Hotel, June 18.
A fabulous musical concert was presented by popular Hong Kong star Louis Castro while local activist Raymond Chan was honored for his many contributions.
Future stars are babies Peyton Kiana Tom of the Peninsula and Krista Nicole Lam of San Francisco.
Princess Peyton was welcomed at a Red Eggs and Ginger Banquet hosted by grandparents Arthur and Julie Tom at the Ming’s Restaurant in Palo Alto. Parents are Daniel and Carolyn Tom.
Princess Krista was welcomed at a Luncheon Banquet with dancing, given by her grandparents Wayman and Betty Lum, at the Empress of China in The City. Krista’s parents are Mr. and Mrs. Darrin Lum, Sr.
Both girls have 20+ years of schooling to look forward to.
Speaking of school, Cal Alumni Association, Chinese Chapter recently sponsored a very successful Faculty Speakers Series event with Dr. Jeffrey Hadler as keynote speaker, June 9.
A large crowd turned out to hear the professor speak on a mentally stimulating topic, “Chinese, Jews, and Violence in Modern Indonesia.”
The good attendance for the sold-out event brought in many accomplished persons interested in the discussion and interchange of ideas and questions and answers afterwards.
Event was co-chaired by Victor Chan and yours truly.
And speaking of interesting speakers, there were three featured speakers at the Salvation Army Fundraising dinner June 24: Chief of Police Heather Fong, Superior Court Judge Lillian Sing and Community College Trustee Lawrence Wong. Congratulations to chairman Howard Lee, who kept the program on schedule so the crowd could enjoy the dancing after dinner.
Friends and colleagues were saddened by the recent passing of Jason Yuen. He was the director of planning and construction for the San Francisco International Airport and chairman of the Master Plan Advisory Board. A major contributor to the International Airport’s recently completed expansion, Jason was also an adviser to many major airports including Atlanta, Miami, Toronto, Manila and Taipei. Our condolences to his wife Jo Ann and family.