To jump-start the new year, KAPS held its kick-off party at Chin-Goo-Ya in Edmond, Wash. Dancing and karaoke-ing away to old tunes, members got to let loose and to release some pent-up stress. Approximately 75 members came to see old and new friends, all while rocking to old Korean ballads. The favorite tune of the first generation, “My Way,” was included. KAPS Happy Hours are held the second Friday of every month at Jasmine’s, located on the corner of 4th and Spring Street in downtown Seattle.

Gala On The Pier

The 10th Annual KAPS Leadership Gala is just about a month away and the committee is hard at work. Most of us have heard about the hardship the first generation endured during the first 100 years of immigration. This year, the committee concentrated on what the second generation needs to do in the next 100 years to really make our American dreams come true.

This year’s theme is “Inspire. Involve. Make a Difference.” The gala is set for Friday, June 17, at the beautiful Bell Harbor Conference Center, located on Pier 66 on the waterfront overlooking the city of Seattle. This event is sponsored by numerous corporations who recognize the impact of Korean Americans in the greater Puget Sound region.

President Janette Kwon (right) gets a dance lesson from honorary board member Franklin Yi. • ABOVE: Members Minsun Kim (left) and Jina Yun pose in a traditional “V.”

In the past, the KAPS gala has been emceed by KING 5 news reporter Elisa Hahn. And every year, KAPS has awarded a scholarship to an outstanding high school graduate and given special recognition to those who have made a difference in the community. The gala is open to everyone. Awards nominations and corporate sponsor information can be found on the KAPS Web site, www.seattlekaps.org.

Another Round, Anyone?

The Fifth Annual KAPS/KABA Golf Tourney is set for 1 p.m. on June 4 at Hawks Prairie Links Course in Lacey, Wash. This tournament was started to help the Korean Community Counseling Center, a nonprofit organization that gives free aid to immigrants and offers a leadership camp to Korean American students. This event is not only entertaining, but full of great prizes and awards as well. To join in on the fun, call KAPS at (206) 633-9400 for more information.