Contents

• President's Message
• Another Milestone Reached
• Construction Nears Finale
• CAM & Community News
  • Arrival of New General Manager at El Pueblo
  • Nissan Foundation Awards $50,000 to FCAM
  • El Pueblo: The Historic Heart of Los Angeles
  • Lantern Festival Meetings
• Sixth Annual Historymakers Awards Gala Banquet
• 2002 Getty Summer Interns
  • Kristinne Uy
  • David Wang
• In Loving Memory of Gerald Jann
• FCAM New Collections Update
• Board of Directors
• Staff & Consultants
• Newsletter Staff

It is a very exciting time for Friends of CAM right now, as we are able to visualize the progress of the Construction Project, expected to reach completion by the end of October. In addition to construction aspects, the exhibit team has been working on the installation of exhibits for the various galleries in the Museum. We would like to thank all those who have generously supported CAM throughout the years.

On November 9th, FCAM will be holding our 6th Annual Historymakers Awards Gala & Banquet at the Universal Hilton Hotel & Towers. This year, the Museum will be honoring one of our founding board members Gerald Jann posthumously for the Dan Louie, Jr. Award and Hon. Delbert Wong & Mrs. Dolores Wong for their lifetime achievements in the area of law and community service. In addition, we will be honoring Nobel Prize Winner, Dr. Steven Chu for his exceptional achievement in the area of Science. Hopefully you can join us to celebrate these outstanding achievements by these Historymakers and support the Museum.

The Lantern Festival Planning Committee has begun work for our 2nd Annual Lantern Festival. FCAM’s first Lantern Festival achieved much success as it drew a crowd of over 10,000 visitors throughout the day. Volunteers are welcomed to take part in the planning of next year’s event, to be held in February of 2003.

As we continue to make large strides towards the opening of the Museum in the summer of 2003, I sincerely encourage all of you to continue supporting the CAM project. It is with great anticipation that this vision will soon become a reality.

Sincerely,
Terry R. Loo

July 2, 2002 at the Federal Courthouse was certainly one of our proudest moments with the induction of the Hon. Debra Yang as United States Attorney for Central District of California, an area comprising a population of 15.4 million. Attorney Yang’s arrival represents a signal step in the civic empowerment of Chinese Americans.

The Hon. Debra Yang had just recently resigned from the position of President and from the Board of the Friends of CAM to assume her new appointment.

With her family and mother, Dore, holding the Bible, she was sworn in by the Hon. Ronald S.W. Lew, Judge of the U.S. District Court, and President Emeritus of FCAM.

Senator Dianne Feinstein, Chair of the Judiciary Committee, noted upon Senate approval of Yang’s nomination by President Bush, “The U. S. Attorney in Los Angeles is responsible for a seven county area larger than most states. It is an important post and I look forward to working with Judge Yang…”

In recalling the days of Chinese Exclusion, Justice Ming Chen of the California Supreme Court emphasized, “the (historical) road that has brought Debra Yang to this day has been harsh.” He further noted that she is both outstanding and able, “a rare combination of intelligence, empathy, and common sense.” Reflecting on Sept. 11 of last year, he noted, “Prosecutors of high quality will insure our freedom and safety.”

Also acknowledging the sensitive climate in which we all live, Assistant Attorney General Viet Dinh noticed the relationship between lawyers and the making of history, “Being here, we are able to achieve extraordinary things for freedom, opportunity, equality…It is an honor to be able to serve in this dire time of need.”

New U.S. Attorney Yang herself admitted that the importance and burden of the office is just beginning to sink in. She said in jest, “ I passed Castelar today (her elementary school in Chinatown) and perhaps I have not gone very far.”

She gave tribute to two men: her father, who always urged her “to do better,” and to Hon. Ronald Lew, who instilled in her a sense of responsibility for her life and career.

In answer to the unspoken question of leaving the relative comfort of the judiciary, she declared that this was an opportunity “to fight for justice.” She is enthusiastic about the chance to lead a staff she regards as “an excellent team.”

Finally, she declared that the full impact of the office was becoming clear, “ I represent the United States of America!”

In this case, our tenant improvements have meant starting with a bare historical shell of brick, braced by steel beams, and then building attractive and comfortable rooms for modern museum usage. Walls had to be installed except where historical brickwork itself will be exposed at several places so that the building itself is part exhibit. Many original doors and windows are preserved. Ceilings with modern lighting and built-in lighting to spotlight exhibits had to be mounted.

Floors were the last elements to be installed in September. All floors will be polished and stained hardwood. Furthermore, the floor on the first floor of the Garnier North Bay will be restored to historical appearance. Modern ramps and lifts have been integrated to allow access for the handicapped.

Fulfilling a Getty Institute preservation grant, the FCAM construction team wil restore the second story balcony of a Garnier temple as an architectural exhibit. Four long marble panels with original poetry and calligraphy created by Professor Lo Ch’ing-Che, and structurally developed by CAM architect ChoyAssociates, will be installed.

The FCAM team of Munson Kwok, Jan Wang, Jean Bruce Poole, Winston Wu and ChoyAssociates has been maintaining optimal museum space and function during coordination with Shull, and General Services workmen.

By mid-October, the brand new house will be built. Then it will await the furnishings and the official move-in.

“I’ve seen it today, and now I am really excited!”

M. Kwok
09/02/02

A graduate from the University of California, Davis, Mr. Navarro served as a field superintendent for the California State Park system for the past 16 years.

A welcome reception was held at the Avila Adobe courtyard on July 17, in celebration of the arrival of El Pueblo’s new general manager. FCAM looks forward to developing this new relationship in building and supporting the Chinese American Museum.

Nissan Foundation Awards $50,000 to FCAM
The Nissan Foundation hosted a special luncheon on July 17, 2002 to acknowledge the work of and present awards to its 2002 grant recipients: FCAM, Art Center College of Design, the Autry Museum of Western Heritage, the Japanese American National Museum, Pierce College, Self Help Graphics, and the Skirball Cultural Center.

As the proud recipient of a $50,000 grant from the Nissan Foundation, FCAM plans to use this funding to create and support an inaugural educational project, “Family History Scrapbook,” intended to strengthen children’s self-esteem by developing their multicultural understanding of Southern California.

This education program will entail the development of workshops and textbooks, as well as transportation for school children from underserved communities. The Museum hopes to launch this program at its opening in Summer 2003.

FCAM is grateful for the Nissan Foundation’s generous support of the Museum and its mission.

El Pueblo: The Historic Heart of Los Angeles
Co-authors Ms. Jean Bruce Poole and Mr. Tevvy Ball appeared for a book signing party at the Avila Adobe on Olvera Street to celebrate their recent publication of El Pueblo: The Historic Heart of Los Angeles (Getty Publications).

The long awaited book, a project of the Getty Conservation Institute, offers an account of the rich history of El Pueblo de Los Angeles, predating the birth of the city up to El Pueblo as many know it today.

In addition to serving as the former executive director for FCAM, Jean Bruce Poole has acted as the senior curator and historic museum director of El Pueblo Historical Monument. Following her retirement in 2001, she has been working as a consultant for FCAM. Tevvy Ball is an editor with Getty Publication.

The 132-page account of the history of El Pueblo includes a timeline as well as many color photographs.

If you are interested in purchasing this book, please call El Pueblo’s Visitors’ Center at (213) 625-3800.

Lantern Festival Meetings
Friends of the Chinese American Museum, it is once again that time of year! The Lantern Festival Planning Committee has started preparations for the 2nd Annual Lantern Festival, an all-day event that celebrates the traditions of the Lunar New Year. Please check our web site for meeting schedules, or e-mail LanternFestival2003@yahoo.com for more information.

Past honorees have included former California Secretary of State March Fong Eu, author Iris Chang, actress Joan Chen, figure skater Michelle Kwan, businessman Gareth Chang, Federal District Court Judge Ronald Lew and celebrated artist Tyrus Wong. This gala banquet has become one of the premiere Asian-American events in Southern California.

This year’s dinner has a special significance as the Museum is honoring one of its own, Gerald Jann. Jerry, a founding member of the Museum’s Board of Directors, was dedicated to improving the lives of fellow Chinese Americans in Los Angeles. In addition to being an active community member, Jerry co-founded Jade Magazine, the first Asian American magazine. In light of Jerry’s recent passing on August 25, 2002, we would like to celebrate his life by honoring him with the Museum’s Dan Louie Jr. Award. This award recognizes those individuals who have dedicated a lifetime of service to the Chinese American community in Southern California.

The pioneering achievements of Hon. Delbert Wong, retired judge of the Appellate Court, and his wife, Mrs. Dolores Wong will be specially recognized at this year’s Banquet. Judge Wong, the first Chinese American California Deputy Attorney General, and the first Chinese American to be appointed judge in the United States will be present to accept this year’s Historymakers Award, with Mrs. Dolores Wong, an outstanding professional in volunteerism, education, and literacy, and a major supporter of the Chinatown Public Library.

Dr. Steven Chu, 1997 Nobel Peace Prize recipient in physics, will be recognized for his significant contributions in the area od science. Dr. Chu is currently a physics professor at Stanford University.

President and owner of Evergreen Publishing & Stationery, Mr. Bing Liu, will be honored with an award for Excellence in Cultural Advancement. Mr. Liu is a dedicated member of the local community, and an avid promoter of Chinese cultural education.

The dinner features a multi-course Chinese banquet and entertainment. Past dinners have featured acrobats, choirs, dancers, magicians and musicians. This year’s entertainment promises to be the most exciting, as there will be acts from each of the different genres featured in past years.

The dinner will be held at the elegant Universal Hilton, located in Universal City, California. Cocktail hour starts at 5:30 p.m. and features piano music by Peter R. Kwong. A silent auction will also be conducted throughout the evening. Dinner will start promptly at 6:30 p.m. Last year’s dinner was a sellout with 600 people in attendance. This year’s dinner expects even greater success.

For event information, please call (213) 626-5240.

In the fall I will be entering my sophomore year at Claremont McKenna College, where I am majoring in economics. Though I have a strong interest in business, I have always had a passion for the arts. Knowing this, my Chinese professor brought the CAM internship opportunity to my attention and, much to my delight, I was selected.

Thus far, my experience at the Museum has been one of constant learning, with each day yielding some new discovery. David, the other intern, and I spend a lot of our time with the museum’s artifacts. Working with these objects, these echoes of Chinese American experiences, has taught me a lot about Chinese American history and has strengthened my sense of myself.

In learning the stories behind these artifacts and studying the prejudices which have shaped much of Chinese immigration to America, I see my own family’s trials of immigration and belonging. I like to think that each day I work at the Museum, I am helping to establish a place where other Chinese Americans might find the same comfort and empowerment that I have found in discovering the mutuality of the Chinese American experience.

Yet beyond what this museum will provide for other Chinese Americans, I am thrilled that we can share our story with all peoples. Recognition of Chinese contributions to this country is past due and there is a universality to our struggle which I believe will speak to all who visit the Museum.

Perhaps the most important thing I have gained from this internship has been my belief in the cause. It would be difficult for anyone to work with people like Suellen, Sonia, Betty, and Jan, people who are so impassioned and dedicated, and not be inspired. There is an immense sense of excitement and pride, even a nobility of cause at the heart of this museum, and I am grateful every day to be a part of it.

David Wang
As a Chinese American I am proud of the history and courageous path marked by the Chinese pioneers in the early 19th century. It wasn’t long ago when I took my first Asian American Studies class, leading me to realize the direct effects of those early Chinese Americans on the lives of Chinese Americans today. Their courage and struggle has helped us gain acceptance and success.

Being an intern at the Chinese American Museum has given me an opportunity to further my education of the history of their establishments. I enjoy the work I do at CAM because it gives me a better understanding of that history.

Under the guidance of Sonia Mak (my supervisor), Kristinne (the other intern) and I get hands-on experience with the artifacts. We get to study each item and understand the significant historical background behind them. According to Suellen (curator) all of our work plays an important part in the Museum.

The photograph collection is especially interesting because it captures a realistic impression of the past. The collection is extremely broad, with photo themes ranging through several different categories and spanning the length of a century. Our job includes sorting out these photos as well as assigning them appropriate descriptions. Sometimes it is hard not to stop my work to look at the pictures.

Through this internship, my knowledge of the Chinese American experience in America has increased dramatically. Because of my own immigration experience, working at the Museum has given me a greater appreciation for the opportunities I have before me now and a deep respect for the role previous Chinese American immigrants have played in establishing a place for Chinese in America.

Growing up in the family restaurant “Chinese Inn” in Hollywood, Jerry was inspired by many movie personalities. He worked steadily as an actor in Hollywood films for over 40 years, never retiring. His work in media includes KRKD Radio, Hollywood Reporter, numerous movie and television productions, television commercials, and magazine publishing.

Jerry’s movie credits include Tea House of the August Moon, Flower Drum Song, Around the World in Eighty Days, The Apartment, Best Defense, Sand Pebbles, and Love Bug. His most acclaimed starring role was that of Inspector Ling of Hong Kong, a 1960-61 television series with Rod Taylor.

Jerry co-founded Jade Magazine, the first Asian American Magazine with his long-time friend Dr. Dan Louie, Jr. He was the Magazine’s publisher and editor for the magazine for thirteen years (1975 -1988). “Jerry was my old friend for more than 60 years and my big brother. When he came to me with the idea of publishing a quality and elegant magazine that would speak for Asian Americans, I happily encouraged him and supported it.”

Jerry was a founding member and president of the Los Angeles Central City Optimist Club and Los Angeles Chinese Guardsmen Club. He also continuously supported many Chinese community organizations including Friends of Chinatown Library, Chinatown Service Center, and Alpine Recreation Center.

Over a good meal of Chinese soul food, he often told stories about Chinese American pioneers, including his Aunt Mabel Chow, Uncle Robert Chow, Uncle Tom Wing, James Wong Howe, Tyrus Wong, Jake Lee, Dong Kingman, Judge Delbert Wong, Y.C. Hong, and Beulah Quo. He recounted their achievements with that special pride of being Chinese American but he was always reluctant to share his own accomplishment.

Jerry was a man with vision, yet with a good sense of practicality and work ethic. “Face it, you got a job to do, you just do it.”

“Jerry was kind and generous. He was friend to many,” said Edward Foster, one of his closest friends.

As a founding Board member of the Friends of the Chinese American Museum, Jerry volunteered for many of the museum projects including building traveling exhibits and a model of Old Chinatown, and participating on the Getty Intern Committee, Historymaker Dinner Committee, and just about all CAM events of last 14 years.

Founding CAM Board member Munson Kwok comments: “Virtually the last thought to me from him was while we stood on the Plaza after a recent Board meeting. ‘This is ridiculous,’ Jerry said after the parsimonious CAM Board voted down the garden designer because of cost. ‘We’ve got to have that garden!’ ‘If you’ll put up $500, I’ll put up $500, and we’ll find two more guys. You get one; I’ll get one!’ Tomorrow never quite arrive for us on this one.”

We will miss our dear friend Jerry.

Mrs. Christie Bourdet has given several historical books from the late 19th to early 20th century, which detail popular and official American opinions about Chinese immigrants. Donors Mr. and Mrs. Rui Wang have contributed books as well as traditional Chinese papercutting pieces. Mr. Gim Fong has donated a wide variety of original objects from China City and the original Chinatown.

Sizable family collections have been generously donated by both Mr. Robert J. Chandler and Mrs. Vicky Tong Young, which document the important local pioneering families of Spencer and Caroline Chan and George Tong, respectively.

Many of these donors have kindly granted the Museum permission to document their personal stories through oral history interviews. The Museum is humbly and eternally grateful for all of these new gifts which promise to enrich the Chinese American story the Museum aims to interpret and share.

President Emeriti
Dan Louie, Jr.
Ronald S. W. Lew

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