Discoverer of Hepatitis B Virus & Developer of Hepatitis B Vaccine
SAN FRANCISCO (August 30, 2010) –Nobel Laureate Dr. Baruch Blumberg who discovered the Hepatitis B Virus and developed the Hepatitis Vaccine will be honored by the Chinese Hospital and San Francisco’s Hepatitis B community. The honor will take place at the Hep B Free Coast to Coast dinner on September 16 at the Regency Grand Ballroom. For ticket or sponsorship information, please go to http://sfhepbfree.org/gala/.
San Francisco’s Hep B Free has created an innovative ecosystem which includes over 50 private and public organizations whose goal is to turn San Francisco into the first hepatitis B city nationwide. Their successful public health model has inspired a national Hep B Free movement from coast to coast.
The 37th Annual Award will be bestowed by the Chinese Hospital in recognition of Dr. Blumberg’s contribution to improving the health of Asians. The night's event is presented by SF Hep B Free and Chinese Hospital, and produced by the AsianWeek Foundation. Past notable awardees include Dr. Samuel So, Director, Asian Liver Center at Stanford University, Dr. David Ho, Director of the Aaron Diamond AIDS Research Center and Dr. James Y. Suen, Professor and Chairman of the Department of Otolaryngology, University of Arkansas & President Bill Clinton’s personal physician.
“As one of the first institutions in the U.S, to provide community screenings for Hepatitis B, honoring Dr. Blumberg is particularly meaningful for us,” said Dr. Joseph Woo, Chief of Staff, Chinese Hospital. “Without Dr. Blumberg’s extraordinary discovery, we would not have been able to help our community and save lives.”
Blumberg received the 1976 Nobel Prize in medicine for his discovery of the Hepatitis B Virus, and in the development of the first vaccine to fight Hepatitis B. His research has had a major impact on worldwide public health. Blumberg is a professor of medicine and anthropology at the University of Pennsylvania and Distinguished Scientist at the Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia. More recently, he has been involved in research at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, where he is director of the NASA Astrobiology Institute, which studies the origin, evolution, distribution and future of life in the universe.
“The means are available to prevent and treat Hepatitis B Virus infection,” said Blumberg. “These good outcomes can only be fully achieved if the public, and particularly populations with a high rate of infection, including those of Asian origin, are educated about the virus and take part in the program of vaccination, detection, and treatment. The Chinese Hospital, Hep B Free Campaign in San Francisco, along with others such as those of the Hepatitis B Foundation in Pennsylvania and other Hep B free initiatives across the nation are making the public aware of the problem and leading the efforts to solve it.”
Recently, the World Health Organization passed a resolution to mark World Hepatitis Day on July 28, Blumberg’s birthday.
About Hepatitis B (source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
There are more than 43,000 new Hepatitis B cases in United States each year, with the greatest incidence among adults between ages 19–49 years old.Hepatitis B is one of the leading health disparities between Asians and non-Hispanic whites.Among the Asian population the predominant mode of transmission is from infected mother to child during the birthing process. Hepatitis B can also be spread through unprotected sex and shared needles.There is a safe and effective vaccine to protect against infection from Hepatitis B.
About Chinese Hospital
Chinese Hospital, a community-owned, not-for-profit organization, exists primarily to deliver quality health care in a cost effective way, responsive to the community's ethnic and cultural uniqueness. The hospital provides access to health care and acceptability to all socioeconomic levels. Chinese Hospital is governed by a voluntary Board of Trustees, broadly representative of the community, and strives to assume a leadership role in all health matters. For more info, go to http://www.chinesehospital-sf.org.
About AsianWeek Foundation
AsianWeek Foundationis a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to promote and develop Asian Pacific American identity, community and diversity. AWF does this by bringing people together through cultural events, media campaigns, consulting and innovative programs. AWF encourages the sharing of differences and appreciation of diversity, and works to strengthen relations between all Asian and Pacific Islander cultures, newer and older generations of Asian Pacific Americans, and Asians and non-Asians.
About San Francisco Hep B Free
San Francisco Hep B Free is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between city government, private healthcare community organizations and businesses. The campaign’s goal is to make San Francisco Hepatitis B-free by (1) creating public and healthcare provider awareness about the importance of testing & vaccinating Asian and Pacific Islanders for Hepatitis B; (2) promoting routine Hepatitis B screenings and vaccinations within the primary care medical community; and (3) facilitating access to treatment for chronically infected individuals. The SF Hep B Free Steering Committee is made up of the San Francisco Department of Public Health, the Asian Liver Center at Stanford University and the Asian Week Foundation. For more info, please go to www.sfhepbfree.org.
###
Media Contact:
Grace Niwa, Niwa Public Relations
(617) 299-9848
grace@niwapr.com
Showing posts with label Media Files: Press Releases. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Media Files: Press Releases. Show all posts
Monday, August 30, 2010
Monday, May 24, 2010
PRESSS RELEASE: San Francisco Hep B Free Announces New Partnership with SavantMD.com
Online Videos Educate Asian Americans About Hepatitis B
Download PDF
SAN FRANCISCO (May 24, 2010) – The San Francisco Hep B Free Campaign is proud to announce a new partnership with SavantMD.com, a health and wellness website that features a multicultural team of local medical professionals offering timely health and wellness advice through videos, podcasts, and blogs.
In conjunction with May being "Hepatitis Awareness Month", SavantMD.com will feature doctor and patient videos about hepatitis B, a potentially deadly virus which causes 80% of all liver cancer and is especially prevalent among Asian and Pacific Islanders (APIs). 1 in 10 APIs is chronically infected with hepatitis B versus 1 in 1,000 in the general population, and yet there are no symptoms until it’s almost too late.
The videos highlight the need to get tested and vaccinated as well as the treatment options available for those who test positive. In addition to the special section featured on SavantMD.com, the videos will also run on the SFhepBfree.org and AsianWeek.com websites throughout May. The AsianWeek Foundation serves the Asian/Pacific Islander American community and is one of the founding members of SF Hep B Free.
"At least half of our medical professionals are Asian and Pacific Islanders, making this partnership a perfect match," stated Brian Colbert, CEO and cofounder of SavantMD.com. "Because we are based in the San Francisco Bay Area, home to one of the largest API communities in the U.S., SavantMD.com is able to provide local viewers with the knowledge, experience, and Internet savvy to help overcome this disease."
"Health issues like hepatitis B are of immediate concern to Asian communities," said Angela Pang, Community Editor for AsianWeek. "SavantMD addresses these and other health issues in a straightforward and helpful way."
About San Francisco Hep B Free Campaign
SFhepBfree.org
San Francisco Hep B Free (SFHBF) is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between city government, healthcare organizations, community groups, and businesses to make San Francisco the first city in the nation to be free of hepatitis B. The largest, most intensive healthcare campaign for Asian and Pacific Islanders in the U.S., SFHBF has become a model for the nation. The Steering Committee is comprised of the San Francisco Department of Public Health, AsianWeek Foundation, and the Asian Liver Center at Stanford University.
About SavantMD.com
SavantMD.com
SavantMD.com is a health and wellness company whose Internet site features a multicultural team of local medical professionals offering timely health and wellness advice through videos, podcasts, and blogs. Dr. Mark Savant is cofounder of SavantMD.com, a popular (five-stars on Yelp and accolades from his medical peers) internist with a practice in San Francisco, where he is head of a local Asian physicians’ network. Cofounder and CEO of SavantMD.com is Brian Colbert, a seasoned social media entrepreneur.
#####
Download PDF
SAN FRANCISCO (May 24, 2010) – The San Francisco Hep B Free Campaign is proud to announce a new partnership with SavantMD.com, a health and wellness website that features a multicultural team of local medical professionals offering timely health and wellness advice through videos, podcasts, and blogs.
In conjunction with May being "Hepatitis Awareness Month", SavantMD.com will feature doctor and patient videos about hepatitis B, a potentially deadly virus which causes 80% of all liver cancer and is especially prevalent among Asian and Pacific Islanders (APIs). 1 in 10 APIs is chronically infected with hepatitis B versus 1 in 1,000 in the general population, and yet there are no symptoms until it’s almost too late.
The videos highlight the need to get tested and vaccinated as well as the treatment options available for those who test positive. In addition to the special section featured on SavantMD.com, the videos will also run on the SFhepBfree.org and AsianWeek.com websites throughout May. The AsianWeek Foundation serves the Asian/Pacific Islander American community and is one of the founding members of SF Hep B Free.
"At least half of our medical professionals are Asian and Pacific Islanders, making this partnership a perfect match," stated Brian Colbert, CEO and cofounder of SavantMD.com. "Because we are based in the San Francisco Bay Area, home to one of the largest API communities in the U.S., SavantMD.com is able to provide local viewers with the knowledge, experience, and Internet savvy to help overcome this disease."
"Health issues like hepatitis B are of immediate concern to Asian communities," said Angela Pang, Community Editor for AsianWeek. "SavantMD addresses these and other health issues in a straightforward and helpful way."
About San Francisco Hep B Free Campaign
SFhepBfree.org
San Francisco Hep B Free (SFHBF) is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between city government, healthcare organizations, community groups, and businesses to make San Francisco the first city in the nation to be free of hepatitis B. The largest, most intensive healthcare campaign for Asian and Pacific Islanders in the U.S., SFHBF has become a model for the nation. The Steering Committee is comprised of the San Francisco Department of Public Health, AsianWeek Foundation, and the Asian Liver Center at Stanford University.
About SavantMD.com
SavantMD.com
SavantMD.com is a health and wellness company whose Internet site features a multicultural team of local medical professionals offering timely health and wellness advice through videos, podcasts, and blogs. Dr. Mark Savant is cofounder of SavantMD.com, a popular (five-stars on Yelp and accolades from his medical peers) internist with a practice in San Francisco, where he is head of a local Asian physicians’ network. Cofounder and CEO of SavantMD.com is Brian Colbert, a seasoned social media entrepreneur.
#####
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
DAE Behind Groundbreaking Ad Campaign To Help Turn San Francisco Into First Hepatitis B Free City Nationwide
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SF Hep B Free Ad Campaign Asks "Which One Deserves To Die"
San Francisco, CA (May 4, 2010) – DAE, an award-winning Asian American advertising agency based in San Francisco provided pro bono services for San Francisco Hep B Free, a model collaboration of over 50 private and public organizations whose goal is to turn San Francisco into the first hepatitis B free city nationwide. Recent data released from the National Cancer Institute confirms that San Francisco has the highest rate of liver cancer in the nation. It is the gateway for immigrants from Asian countries where there is a high prevalence of hepatitis B.
Recently featured in the New York Times (May 3, 2010), DAE created a unique and provocative ad campaign called "Which One Deserves To Die?” alerting the public that 1 in 10 Asian Americans is chronically infected with hepatitis B compared to 1 in 1,000 in the general population. Hepatitis B infection causes up to 80 percent of all liver cancers worldwide. More than one in four patients is likely to develop liver cancer if the infection is left untreated.
“As Asian American ourselves, we have the responsibility to do something to help stop hepatitis B,” said Vicky Wong, President & CEO, DAE. “For us, it’s an honor to take this on because we can save lives by using our talent and expertise. I was in shock when I first heard that 1 in 10 Asian Americans is chronically affected with hepatitis B. This campaign recreated that shock and in turn commands immediate attention.”
“This is the first ever major ad campaign to feature real Asian Americans from all walks of life and that’s why it’s going to have some emotional impact,” said Ted Fang, AsianWeek Foundation and Co-Founder, SF Hep B Free. “These ads speak to the Asian American consumer and equally important, they will motivate the general public to understand that all society must work together to end Hep B disease and liver cancer.”
This ad campaign will appear in ethnic and local mainstream newspapers, billboards, bus transit boards in honor of the 15th Anniversary of National Hepatitis Awareness Month and Asian Pacific Heritage Month in May. TV commercials were also produced and will receive wide exposure on Comcast cable, broadcast and Asian television stations. The "Which One Deserves To Die?" print ads and PSAs can be viewed at: http://sfhepbfree.org/preview2010
About DAE:
DAE is an EFFIE award-winning, full-service agency specializing in marketing communications to the Asian American market. Founded in 1990, DAE combines mainstream advertising knowledge with a true understanding of East West cultures to deliver breakthrough, strategically focused programs that yield proven results for clients that include Wells Fargo, Southwest Airlines, Asian Art Museum, and Cathay Pacific Airways. DAE celebrates 20th anniversary this year.
About San Francisco Hep B Free:
San Francisco Hep B Free is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between city government, private healthcare community organizations and businesses. The campaign’s goal is to make San Francisco hepatitis B-free by (1) creating public and healthcare provider awareness about the importance of testing & vaccinating Asian and Pacific Islanders for hepatitis B; (2) promoting routine hepatitis B screenings and vaccinations within the primary care medical community; and (3) facilitating access to treatment for chronically infected individuals. For more info, please go to www.sfhepbfree.org.
###
Media Contacts:
Grace Niwa, Niwa Public Relations
grace@niwapr.com
(617) 299-9848
SF Hep B Free Ad Campaign Asks "Which One Deserves To Die"
San Francisco, CA (May 4, 2010) – DAE, an award-winning Asian American advertising agency based in San Francisco provided pro bono services for San Francisco Hep B Free, a model collaboration of over 50 private and public organizations whose goal is to turn San Francisco into the first hepatitis B free city nationwide. Recent data released from the National Cancer Institute confirms that San Francisco has the highest rate of liver cancer in the nation. It is the gateway for immigrants from Asian countries where there is a high prevalence of hepatitis B.
Recently featured in the New York Times (May 3, 2010), DAE created a unique and provocative ad campaign called "Which One Deserves To Die?” alerting the public that 1 in 10 Asian Americans is chronically infected with hepatitis B compared to 1 in 1,000 in the general population. Hepatitis B infection causes up to 80 percent of all liver cancers worldwide. More than one in four patients is likely to develop liver cancer if the infection is left untreated.
“As Asian American ourselves, we have the responsibility to do something to help stop hepatitis B,” said Vicky Wong, President & CEO, DAE. “For us, it’s an honor to take this on because we can save lives by using our talent and expertise. I was in shock when I first heard that 1 in 10 Asian Americans is chronically affected with hepatitis B. This campaign recreated that shock and in turn commands immediate attention.”
“This is the first ever major ad campaign to feature real Asian Americans from all walks of life and that’s why it’s going to have some emotional impact,” said Ted Fang, AsianWeek Foundation and Co-Founder, SF Hep B Free. “These ads speak to the Asian American consumer and equally important, they will motivate the general public to understand that all society must work together to end Hep B disease and liver cancer.”
This ad campaign will appear in ethnic and local mainstream newspapers, billboards, bus transit boards in honor of the 15th Anniversary of National Hepatitis Awareness Month and Asian Pacific Heritage Month in May. TV commercials were also produced and will receive wide exposure on Comcast cable, broadcast and Asian television stations. The "Which One Deserves To Die?" print ads and PSAs can be viewed at: http://sfhepbfree.org/preview2010
About DAE:
DAE is an EFFIE award-winning, full-service agency specializing in marketing communications to the Asian American market. Founded in 1990, DAE combines mainstream advertising knowledge with a true understanding of East West cultures to deliver breakthrough, strategically focused programs that yield proven results for clients that include Wells Fargo, Southwest Airlines, Asian Art Museum, and Cathay Pacific Airways. DAE celebrates 20th anniversary this year.
About San Francisco Hep B Free:
San Francisco Hep B Free is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between city government, private healthcare community organizations and businesses. The campaign’s goal is to make San Francisco hepatitis B-free by (1) creating public and healthcare provider awareness about the importance of testing & vaccinating Asian and Pacific Islanders for hepatitis B; (2) promoting routine hepatitis B screenings and vaccinations within the primary care medical community; and (3) facilitating access to treatment for chronically infected individuals. For more info, please go to www.sfhepbfree.org.
###
Media Contacts:
Grace Niwa, Niwa Public Relations
grace@niwapr.com
(617) 299-9848
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: New Federal Data Confirms San Francisco Has The Highest Rate of Liver Cancer In The U.S.
California Assemblywoman Fiona Ma Takes Personal Fight Against Hepatitis B National
SF Hep B Free Ad Campaign Asks "Which One Deserves To Die?"
San Francisco - April 28, 2010 – Recent data released from the National Cancer Institute confirms that San Francisco has the highest rate of liver cancer in the nation. It is the gateway for immigrants from Asian countries where there is a high prevalence of hepatitis B. San Francisco Hep B Free is a unique collaboration of over 50 private and public organizations whose goal is to turn San Francisco into the first hepatitis B free city nationwide.
For the 15th Anniversary of National Hepatitis Awareness Month in May, SF Hep B Free will launch "Which One Deserves To Die?" a provocative ad campaign alerting the public that 1 in 10 Asian Americans is chronically infected with hepatitis B compared to 1 in 1,000 in the general population. Hepatitis B infection causes up to 80 percent of liver cancers worldwide. The ad campaign was produced pro bono by DAE Advertising, a leading Asian American advertising agency based in San Francisco. These advertisements are the first major market health campaign in the country to feature more than 60 people from the Bay Area’s Asian American community. This million dollar ad campaign will appear in ethnic and local newspapers, billboards, bus shelters for the month of May. TV commercials were also produced and will be shown on cable, broadcast and Asian television.
Assemblywoman Fiona Ma (D-SF) has chronic hepatitis B, known in the health community as a "silent killer." Her experience propelled her to work with San Francisco Hep B Free, and since joining the campaign, Assemblywoman Ma has authored groundbreaking legislation in California for residents to get screened and vaccinated. She is working on health care policy reform and a bill calling for preventative care and vaccination. "As a Chinese-American, I have been the legislature's leading advocate to eliminate hepatitis B. The cause has special meaning to me because I live with chronic hepatitis B, a disease that affects 2 million Americans," said Assemblywoman Ma.
Hepatitis B Disease Background (source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
San Francisco Hep B Free is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between city government, private healthcare community organizations and businesses. The campaign’s goal is to make San Francisco hepatitis B-free by (1) creating public and healthcare provider awareness about the importance of testing & vaccinating Asian and Pacific Islanders for hepatitis B; (2) promoting routine hepatitis B screenings and vaccinations within the primary care medical community; and (3) facilitating access to treatment for chronically infected individuals. For more info, please go to www.sfhepbfree.org.
###
Media Contacts:
Bonnie Kwong, Niwa Public Relations, SF
bonniekwong_niwapr@yahoo.com
(415) 321-5893
Grace Niwa, Niwa Public Relations
grace@niwapr.com
(617) 299-9848
Visuals:
Click here to download all visuals including ad images and TV commercials.
SF Hep B Free Ad Campaign Asks "Which One Deserves To Die?"
San Francisco - April 28, 2010 – Recent data released from the National Cancer Institute confirms that San Francisco has the highest rate of liver cancer in the nation. It is the gateway for immigrants from Asian countries where there is a high prevalence of hepatitis B. San Francisco Hep B Free is a unique collaboration of over 50 private and public organizations whose goal is to turn San Francisco into the first hepatitis B free city nationwide.
For the 15th Anniversary of National Hepatitis Awareness Month in May, SF Hep B Free will launch "Which One Deserves To Die?" a provocative ad campaign alerting the public that 1 in 10 Asian Americans is chronically infected with hepatitis B compared to 1 in 1,000 in the general population. Hepatitis B infection causes up to 80 percent of liver cancers worldwide. The ad campaign was produced pro bono by DAE Advertising, a leading Asian American advertising agency based in San Francisco. These advertisements are the first major market health campaign in the country to feature more than 60 people from the Bay Area’s Asian American community. This million dollar ad campaign will appear in ethnic and local newspapers, billboards, bus shelters for the month of May. TV commercials were also produced and will be shown on cable, broadcast and Asian television.
Assemblywoman Fiona Ma (D-SF) has chronic hepatitis B, known in the health community as a "silent killer." Her experience propelled her to work with San Francisco Hep B Free, and since joining the campaign, Assemblywoman Ma has authored groundbreaking legislation in California for residents to get screened and vaccinated. She is working on health care policy reform and a bill calling for preventative care and vaccination. "As a Chinese-American, I have been the legislature's leading advocate to eliminate hepatitis B. The cause has special meaning to me because I live with chronic hepatitis B, a disease that affects 2 million Americans," said Assemblywoman Ma.
Hepatitis B Disease Background (source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
- Approximately 350 to 400 million people worldwide have hepatitis B, and many do not know they are infected. Hepatitis B silently attacks the liver and is the leading cause of liver cancer, one of the most lethal, expensive and fastest growing cancers in America.
- There are more than 43,000 new hepatitis B cases in United States each year, with the greatest incidence among adults between ages 19-49 years old.
- Hepatitis B is one of the leading health disparities between Asians and non-Hispanic whites.
- Among the Asian population the predominant mode of transmission is from infected mother to child during the birthing process. Hepatitis B can also be spread through unprotected sex and shared needles.
- There is a safe and effective vaccine to prevent infection from hepatitis B.
San Francisco Hep B Free is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between city government, private healthcare community organizations and businesses. The campaign’s goal is to make San Francisco hepatitis B-free by (1) creating public and healthcare provider awareness about the importance of testing & vaccinating Asian and Pacific Islanders for hepatitis B; (2) promoting routine hepatitis B screenings and vaccinations within the primary care medical community; and (3) facilitating access to treatment for chronically infected individuals. For more info, please go to www.sfhepbfree.org.
###
Media Contacts:
Bonnie Kwong, Niwa Public Relations, SF
bonniekwong_niwapr@yahoo.com
(415) 321-5893
Grace Niwa, Niwa Public Relations
grace@niwapr.com
(617) 299-9848
Visuals:
Click here to download all visuals including ad images and TV commercials.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
MEDIA ADVISORY: Community & Press Preview Event
MEDIA ADVISORY
Contact: Bonnie Kwong (415) 321-5893
bonniekwong_niwapr@yahoo.com
New Federal Data Confirms San Francisco Has Highest Rate of Liver Cancer in the Country
1 in 10 Asian Americans Is Infected By Hepatitis B, The Leading Cause of Liver Cancer
San Francisco Hep B Free Launches New Provocative Ad Campaign
WHAT:
Recent data released from the National Cancer Institute confirms that San Francisco has the highest rate of liver cancer in the nation. The city is a gateway for immigrants from Asian countries where there is a high prevalence of hepatitis B. San Francisco Hep B Free is a unique collaboration of more than 50 private and public organizations working together to turn San Francisco into the first hepatitis B-free city nationwide.
For the 15th Anniversary of National Hepatitis Awareness Month in May, SF Hep B Free will launch "Which One Deserves To Die?" a provocative new ad campaign designed by DAE Advertising featuring more than 60 people from the Bay Area's Asian American community in print ads and public service announcements. This campaign alerts the Asian American community that 1 in 10 Asian Americans is chronically infected with hepatitis B compared to 1 in 1,000 in the general population.
Hear how community leaders, medical professionals, and public officials plan to turn San Francisco into the first hepatitis B-free city in the nation, and be one of the first to see the unveiling of San Francisco Hep B Free's new, provocative "Which One Deserves to Die?" ad campaign.
WHO:
Emceed by Larry Kitagawa, Community Ambassador, San Francisco Hep B Free
Speakers include:
* Fiona Ma, California State Assemblywoman, 12th District
* Dr. Edward Chow, Director, Chinese Community Healthcare Association
* Ted Fang, Director, Asian Week Foundation & San Francisco Hep B Free Committee Member
* Sunny Teo, Executive Creative Director, DAE Advertising
* Elaine Fong, Community Ambassador, San Francisco Hep B Free
WHEN:
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
5:30 p.m. Reception with light refreshments
6:00 p.m. Program
WHERE:
Togonon Gallery
77 Geary Street, 2nd Floor, San Francisco, CA 94108
VISUALS:
Interviews with San Francisco Hep B Free spokespersons, elected officials, physicians, images and commercials from the new ad campaign by DAE Advertising, community members that participated in the San Francisco Hep B Free new Ad Campaign, and community and healthcare leaders.
MEDIA RSVP:
Bonnie Kwong (415) 321-5893 or
bonniekwong_niwapr@yahoo.com
###
About San Francisco Hep B Free:
San Francisco Hep B Free is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between city government, private healthcare community organizations and businesses. The campaign's goal is to make San Francisco hepatitis B-free by (1) creating public and healthcare provider awareness about the importance of testing & vaccinating Asian and Pacific Islanders for hepatitis B; (2) promoting routine hepatitis B screenings and vaccinations within the primary care medical community; and (3) facilitating access to treatment for chronically infected individuals. For more info, please go to
www.sfhepbfree.org
Contact: Bonnie Kwong (415) 321-5893
bonniekwong_niwapr@yahoo.com
New Federal Data Confirms San Francisco Has Highest Rate of Liver Cancer in the Country
1 in 10 Asian Americans Is Infected By Hepatitis B, The Leading Cause of Liver Cancer
San Francisco Hep B Free Launches New Provocative Ad Campaign
WHAT:
Recent data released from the National Cancer Institute confirms that San Francisco has the highest rate of liver cancer in the nation. The city is a gateway for immigrants from Asian countries where there is a high prevalence of hepatitis B. San Francisco Hep B Free is a unique collaboration of more than 50 private and public organizations working together to turn San Francisco into the first hepatitis B-free city nationwide.
For the 15th Anniversary of National Hepatitis Awareness Month in May, SF Hep B Free will launch "Which One Deserves To Die?" a provocative new ad campaign designed by DAE Advertising featuring more than 60 people from the Bay Area's Asian American community in print ads and public service announcements. This campaign alerts the Asian American community that 1 in 10 Asian Americans is chronically infected with hepatitis B compared to 1 in 1,000 in the general population.
Hear how community leaders, medical professionals, and public officials plan to turn San Francisco into the first hepatitis B-free city in the nation, and be one of the first to see the unveiling of San Francisco Hep B Free's new, provocative "Which One Deserves to Die?" ad campaign.
WHO:
Emceed by Larry Kitagawa, Community Ambassador, San Francisco Hep B Free
Speakers include:
* Fiona Ma, California State Assemblywoman, 12th District
* Dr. Edward Chow, Director, Chinese Community Healthcare Association
* Ted Fang, Director, Asian Week Foundation & San Francisco Hep B Free Committee Member
* Sunny Teo, Executive Creative Director, DAE Advertising
* Elaine Fong, Community Ambassador, San Francisco Hep B Free
WHEN:
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
5:30 p.m. Reception with light refreshments
6:00 p.m. Program
WHERE:
Togonon Gallery
77 Geary Street, 2nd Floor, San Francisco, CA 94108
VISUALS:
Interviews with San Francisco Hep B Free spokespersons, elected officials, physicians, images and commercials from the new ad campaign by DAE Advertising, community members that participated in the San Francisco Hep B Free new Ad Campaign, and community and healthcare leaders.
MEDIA RSVP:
Bonnie Kwong (415) 321-5893 or
bonniekwong_niwapr@yahoo.com
###
About San Francisco Hep B Free:
San Francisco Hep B Free is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between city government, private healthcare community organizations and businesses. The campaign's goal is to make San Francisco hepatitis B-free by (1) creating public and healthcare provider awareness about the importance of testing & vaccinating Asian and Pacific Islanders for hepatitis B; (2) promoting routine hepatitis B screenings and vaccinations within the primary care medical community; and (3) facilitating access to treatment for chronically infected individuals. For more info, please go to
www.sfhepbfree.org
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Chinese Community Groups Recognized for Hepatitis B Awareness Efforts
Contact: Angela Pang, apang@asianweek.com, (415) 321-5894
SAN FRANCISCO - San Francisco Hep B Free will be honoring 9 Chinatown community organizations for their efforts in helping make San Francisco free of Hepatitis B. The organizations include: Lim Family Association, Hop Wo Benevolent Association, Hoy Sun Ning Yung Benevolent Association, Sam Yup Association, Chinese Hospital, Soo Yuen Benevolent Association, Portsmouth Square Garage, North East Medical Services and American Legion Cathay Post #384. This Spring, Chinese Hospital will be partnering with these organizations to provide free hepatitis B screenings in Chinatown.
San Francisco has the highest rate of liver cancer in the country, primarily among Chinese and Asian residents. 80% of all liver cancer is caused by Hepatitis B infection. Chinese and Asians are 100 times more likely to be infected with Hep B than non-Asians. One out of 10 Chinese has chronic Hep B disease and could develop liver cancer. Only one out of 1,000 non-Asians is infected with Hep B. There is a vaccine that prevents Hepatitis B infection, and there is medicine to prevent liver cancer.
All Chinese and Asians in San Francisco should be tested for Hep B and see their doctor.
WHEN:
Thursday January 28, noon
WHO:
Carmen Chu, Supervisor District 4
Roger Louie, Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association Presiding President
Damon Yee, Hop Wo Benevolent Association
Michael Kay, Sam Yup Association
WHERE:
Imperial Palace Restaurant
816 Washington Street, San Francisco
Lunch will be provided for media, please RSVP to Angela Pang, apang@asianweek.com, (415) 321-5894 by Wednesday Jan. 25 at 2pm.
###
ABOUT Hepatitis B
Asian and Pacific Islanders (APIs) are disproportionately impacted by Hepatitis B. It is a disease of the liver caused by HBV, a virus often called a "silent killer" because it can cause liver cancer, cirrhosis or liver failure without producing symptoms. San Francisco has the highest liver cancer rate in the nation, and 80% of liver cancer in APIs is caused by HBV. But it's preventable with a simple vaccine.
ABOUT San Francisco Hep B Free
www.sfhepbfree.org
San Francisco Hep B Free is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between city government, private healthcare and community organizations. The program's goal is to make San Francisco a hepatitis B-free city by (1) creating public and healthcare provider awareness about the importance of testing & vaccinating APIs for hepatitis B; (2) promoting routine HBV screenings and vaccinations within the primary care medical community; and (3) facilitating access to treatment for chronically infected individuals. The campaign's theme is "B a Hero. See a doctor who tests for Hepatitis B."
SAN FRANCISCO - San Francisco Hep B Free will be honoring 9 Chinatown community organizations for their efforts in helping make San Francisco free of Hepatitis B. The organizations include: Lim Family Association, Hop Wo Benevolent Association, Hoy Sun Ning Yung Benevolent Association, Sam Yup Association, Chinese Hospital, Soo Yuen Benevolent Association, Portsmouth Square Garage, North East Medical Services and American Legion Cathay Post #384. This Spring, Chinese Hospital will be partnering with these organizations to provide free hepatitis B screenings in Chinatown.
San Francisco has the highest rate of liver cancer in the country, primarily among Chinese and Asian residents. 80% of all liver cancer is caused by Hepatitis B infection. Chinese and Asians are 100 times more likely to be infected with Hep B than non-Asians. One out of 10 Chinese has chronic Hep B disease and could develop liver cancer. Only one out of 1,000 non-Asians is infected with Hep B. There is a vaccine that prevents Hepatitis B infection, and there is medicine to prevent liver cancer.
All Chinese and Asians in San Francisco should be tested for Hep B and see their doctor.
WHEN:
Thursday January 28, noon
WHO:
Carmen Chu, Supervisor District 4
Roger Louie, Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association Presiding President
Damon Yee, Hop Wo Benevolent Association
Michael Kay, Sam Yup Association
WHERE:
Imperial Palace Restaurant
816 Washington Street, San Francisco
Lunch will be provided for media, please RSVP to Angela Pang, apang@asianweek.com, (415) 321-5894 by Wednesday Jan. 25 at 2pm.
###
ABOUT Hepatitis B
Asian and Pacific Islanders (APIs) are disproportionately impacted by Hepatitis B. It is a disease of the liver caused by HBV, a virus often called a "silent killer" because it can cause liver cancer, cirrhosis or liver failure without producing symptoms. San Francisco has the highest liver cancer rate in the nation, and 80% of liver cancer in APIs is caused by HBV. But it's preventable with a simple vaccine.
ABOUT San Francisco Hep B Free
www.sfhepbfree.org
San Francisco Hep B Free is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between city government, private healthcare and community organizations. The program's goal is to make San Francisco a hepatitis B-free city by (1) creating public and healthcare provider awareness about the importance of testing & vaccinating APIs for hepatitis B; (2) promoting routine HBV screenings and vaccinations within the primary care medical community; and (3) facilitating access to treatment for chronically infected individuals. The campaign's theme is "B a Hero. See a doctor who tests for Hepatitis B."
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Warriors Donate Portion of Asian Heritage Night Proceeds to SF Hep B Free
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | PDF
-Assemblywoman Fiona Ma to accept check during January 22 game-
WHAT: The Golden State Warriors will donate a portion of the proceeds from their Annual Asian Heritage Night on Friday January 22 to San Francisco Hep B Free - a citywide campaign to raise awareness of the importance of testing and vaccinating all Asian and Pacific Islanders for Hepatitis B. Assemblywoman Fiona Ma, honorary chairperson of the campaign who is chronically infected with hepatitis B, will be participating in a check presentation before the game. She will be accompanied by the campaign's community supporters who will be dressed in Asian ethnic attire to celebrate the team's Asian heritage night.
Approximately 1 in 10 Asian American Pacific Islanders (APIs) in San Francisco has an undiagnosed case of hepatitis B. San Francisco has the highest rate of liver cancer in the nation.
All attendees who purchase the special Asian Heritage Night tickets will receive a free commemorative Asian Heritage Night T-shirt. Tickets can still be purchased today at:
https://www.gs-warriors.com/forms/secure/fct_asianamerican10.html
To celebrate Asian Heritage, prior to the game, Chinese-Taiwanese-American Alice Tong will sing the national anthem. During half time, the Cherng Loong Lion Dance Troupe will perform an energetic routine.
WHO:
Assemblywoman Fiona Ma, a chronic hep B patient
Community supporters of SF Hep B Free campaign
WHEN:
Friday, January 22, 7:15pm
WHERE:
Oracle Arena
7000 Coliseum Way
Oakland, CA
VISUALS:
Colorful lion dance troupe during half time
Warriors check presentation with Assemblywoman Fiona Ma
CONTACT:
Troy Corti: TACorti@gs-warriors.com or (510) 986-5408 by Thursday Jan. 21 at 3pm to obtain media credentials for the game and access to the court during the pre-game check presentation.
###
ABOUT HBV: APIs are disproportionately impacted by Hepatitis B. It is a disease of the liver caused by HBV, a virus often called a "silent killer" because it can cause liver cancer, cirrhosis or liver failure without producing symptoms. Eighty percent of liver cancer in APIs is caused by HBV. But it's preventable with a simple vaccine.
ABOUT SF Hep B Free: SF Hep B Free (sfhepbfree.org) is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between city government, private healthcare and community organizations. The goal of the citywide campaign is to eradicate hepatitis B in San Francisco by screening, testing and vaccinating all API residents.
-Assemblywoman Fiona Ma to accept check during January 22 game-
WHAT: The Golden State Warriors will donate a portion of the proceeds from their Annual Asian Heritage Night on Friday January 22 to San Francisco Hep B Free - a citywide campaign to raise awareness of the importance of testing and vaccinating all Asian and Pacific Islanders for Hepatitis B. Assemblywoman Fiona Ma, honorary chairperson of the campaign who is chronically infected with hepatitis B, will be participating in a check presentation before the game. She will be accompanied by the campaign's community supporters who will be dressed in Asian ethnic attire to celebrate the team's Asian heritage night.
Approximately 1 in 10 Asian American Pacific Islanders (APIs) in San Francisco has an undiagnosed case of hepatitis B. San Francisco has the highest rate of liver cancer in the nation.
All attendees who purchase the special Asian Heritage Night tickets will receive a free commemorative Asian Heritage Night T-shirt. Tickets can still be purchased today at:
https://www.gs-warriors.com/forms/secure/fct_asianamerican10.html
To celebrate Asian Heritage, prior to the game, Chinese-Taiwanese-American Alice Tong will sing the national anthem. During half time, the Cherng Loong Lion Dance Troupe will perform an energetic routine.
WHO:
Assemblywoman Fiona Ma, a chronic hep B patient
Community supporters of SF Hep B Free campaign
WHEN:
Friday, January 22, 7:15pm
WHERE:
Oracle Arena
7000 Coliseum Way
Oakland, CA
VISUALS:
Colorful lion dance troupe during half time
Warriors check presentation with Assemblywoman Fiona Ma
CONTACT:
Troy Corti: TACorti@gs-warriors.com or (510) 986-5408 by Thursday Jan. 21 at 3pm to obtain media credentials for the game and access to the court during the pre-game check presentation.
###
ABOUT HBV: APIs are disproportionately impacted by Hepatitis B. It is a disease of the liver caused by HBV, a virus often called a "silent killer" because it can cause liver cancer, cirrhosis or liver failure without producing symptoms. Eighty percent of liver cancer in APIs is caused by HBV. But it's preventable with a simple vaccine.
ABOUT SF Hep B Free: SF Hep B Free (sfhepbfree.org) is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between city government, private healthcare and community organizations. The goal of the citywide campaign is to eradicate hepatitis B in San Francisco by screening, testing and vaccinating all API residents.
Monday, November 2, 2009
PRESS RELEASE: Subaru Leads the Pack in the Fight Against Hepatitis B Among Asian Americans
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Julie Sellew, Niwa Public Relations
(508) 238-6547
julie@niwapr.com
"Hep B Hero Mobile" Hits the Road to Promote Hep B Awareness
San Mateo Hep B Free To Launch November 4, 2009
November 2, 2009 - Subaru of America, Inc. is taking an innovative approach in the fight against hepatitis B disease among the Asian American community with its donation of a 2010 Subaru Legacy Sedan to the San Francisco Hep B Free campaign. The first partnership of its kind, the Legacy will serve as a vehicle, both literally and figuratively, to promote awareness on hepatitis B and liver cancer with a traveling road show throughout California’s Bay Area and a social media campaign that will outreach to Asian Americans nationwide.
"Subaru is leading the pack among car companies as the first to support a health initiative campaign for the Asian American community and their example is one to be followed," said Ted Fang, AsianWeek Foundation Director and SF Hep B Free Steering Committee Member. "With their generosity we are now able to expand our efforts beyond San Francisco and reach a national audience which is invaluable to us."
Appropriately dubbed the "Hep B Hero Mobile" the new model 2010 Subaru Legacy Sedan is detailed in full-color artwork and promotes the campaign theme which calls on everyone to "B a Hero" in preventing liver cancer and hepatitis B. The vehicle made its debut last month at the Annual Be A Hero Gala, a benefit fundraiser for San Francisco Hep B Free. It will continue to be featured at prominent Bay Area Asian American-oriented events including the kick-off event for the newly launched San Mateo Hep B Free, a replication of the successful SF Hep B Free program, on November 4th, 2009 at the Hong Kong Flower Lounge in Millbrae, CA. To RSVP, please contact (650) 312-1663 or smhepfree@gmail.com
"Subaru is committed to helping educate the community and increase awareness through the Hep B Free movement," said Todd Lawrence, promotions and sponsorship manager, Subaru of America, Inc. "The Asian American/Pacific Islander community is one of the most vibrant and fastest growing in America. We are proud to be part of the community’s good health initiatives and continued development."
Asian and Pacific Islanders (API) bear a disproportionate burden of liver disease and liver cancer as a result of undetected chronic hepatitis B infection. One in 10 Asians and Asian Americans are chronically infected with hepatitis B and are four times more likely to die from liver cancer if unmonitored, compared to the general population, making it the greatest health disparity affecting API populations both locally and worldwide. Hepatitis B is not only vaccine preventable, but it also has effective treatments that can slow or prevent liver damage caused by the disease. Early detection of hepatitis B will benefit the infected individual as well as prevent the infection from spreading.
The AsianWeek Foundation
www.asianweek.com
The AsianWeek Foundation is a founding Steering Committee member of the Hep B Free campaign and focuses on community organizing and strategic partnerships. AsianWeek Foundation’s purpose is to bring together the diverse segments, organizations and individuals of the Asian Pacific/Islander community. AsianWeek Foundation also organizes the Asian Heritage Street Celebration, a celebration of traditional and contemporary culture in Asian Pacific America. It is the largest one-day gathering of Asians in America. www.asianfairsf.com
Subaru of America, Inc.
www.subaru.com
Subaru of America, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J., the company markets and distributes Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of nearly 600 dealers across the United States. Subaru boasts the most fuel efficient line-up of all-wheel drive products sold in the market today based on Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) fuel economy standards. All Subaru products are manufactured in zero- landfill production plants and Subaru of Indiana Automotive Inc. is the only U.S. automobile production plant to be designated a backyard wildlife Habitat by the National Wildlife Federation.
###
Contact:
Julie Sellew, Niwa Public Relations
(508) 238-6547
julie@niwapr.com
"Hep B Hero Mobile" Hits the Road to Promote Hep B Awareness
San Mateo Hep B Free To Launch November 4, 2009
November 2, 2009 - Subaru of America, Inc. is taking an innovative approach in the fight against hepatitis B disease among the Asian American community with its donation of a 2010 Subaru Legacy Sedan to the San Francisco Hep B Free campaign. The first partnership of its kind, the Legacy will serve as a vehicle, both literally and figuratively, to promote awareness on hepatitis B and liver cancer with a traveling road show throughout California’s Bay Area and a social media campaign that will outreach to Asian Americans nationwide.
"Subaru is leading the pack among car companies as the first to support a health initiative campaign for the Asian American community and their example is one to be followed," said Ted Fang, AsianWeek Foundation Director and SF Hep B Free Steering Committee Member. "With their generosity we are now able to expand our efforts beyond San Francisco and reach a national audience which is invaluable to us."
Appropriately dubbed the "Hep B Hero Mobile" the new model 2010 Subaru Legacy Sedan is detailed in full-color artwork and promotes the campaign theme which calls on everyone to "B a Hero" in preventing liver cancer and hepatitis B. The vehicle made its debut last month at the Annual Be A Hero Gala, a benefit fundraiser for San Francisco Hep B Free. It will continue to be featured at prominent Bay Area Asian American-oriented events including the kick-off event for the newly launched San Mateo Hep B Free, a replication of the successful SF Hep B Free program, on November 4th, 2009 at the Hong Kong Flower Lounge in Millbrae, CA. To RSVP, please contact (650) 312-1663 or smhepfree@gmail.com
"Subaru is committed to helping educate the community and increase awareness through the Hep B Free movement," said Todd Lawrence, promotions and sponsorship manager, Subaru of America, Inc. "The Asian American/Pacific Islander community is one of the most vibrant and fastest growing in America. We are proud to be part of the community’s good health initiatives and continued development."
Asian and Pacific Islanders (API) bear a disproportionate burden of liver disease and liver cancer as a result of undetected chronic hepatitis B infection. One in 10 Asians and Asian Americans are chronically infected with hepatitis B and are four times more likely to die from liver cancer if unmonitored, compared to the general population, making it the greatest health disparity affecting API populations both locally and worldwide. Hepatitis B is not only vaccine preventable, but it also has effective treatments that can slow or prevent liver damage caused by the disease. Early detection of hepatitis B will benefit the infected individual as well as prevent the infection from spreading.
The AsianWeek Foundation
www.asianweek.com
The AsianWeek Foundation is a founding Steering Committee member of the Hep B Free campaign and focuses on community organizing and strategic partnerships. AsianWeek Foundation’s purpose is to bring together the diverse segments, organizations and individuals of the Asian Pacific/Islander community. AsianWeek Foundation also organizes the Asian Heritage Street Celebration, a celebration of traditional and contemporary culture in Asian Pacific America. It is the largest one-day gathering of Asians in America. www.asianfairsf.com
Subaru of America, Inc.
www.subaru.com
Subaru of America, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J., the company markets and distributes Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of nearly 600 dealers across the United States. Subaru boasts the most fuel efficient line-up of all-wheel drive products sold in the market today based on Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) fuel economy standards. All Subaru products are manufactured in zero- landfill production plants and Subaru of Indiana Automotive Inc. is the only U.S. automobile production plant to be designated a backyard wildlife Habitat by the National Wildlife Federation.
###
Thursday, October 29, 2009
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: SPEAKER PELOSI ADDRESSES COMMUNITY BASED HEALTHCARE REFORM; Calls for Bay Area Businesses to Help Prevent Liver Cancer
Download PDF 
WHAT:
Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi will address the need for community based healthcare reform highlighting the example of San Francisco Hep B Free (sfhepbfree.org), a comprehensive campaign to prevent liver cancer resulting from hepatitis B. Approximately 1 in 10 Asian American Pacific Islanders (APIs) in San Francisco has an undiagnosed case of hepatitis B. San Francisco has the highest rate of liver cancer in the nation.
Assemblywoman Fiona Ma - who is chronically infected with hepatitis B - is among those who will join the Speaker. They will address how fear of pre-existing condition exclusions discourages people from taking measures to prevent liver cancer, and how SF Hep B Free is addressing this issue. They also will request the partnership of the Bay Area's largest and most well-known businesses in helping to address hepatitis B.
WHO:
Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi
Assemblywoman Fiona Ma, a chronic hep B patient
Congresswoman Jackie Speier
Dr. Garth Graham, Director of Office Minority Health
David Chiu, San Francisco Board of Supervisors President
Jim Wunderman, President and Chief Executive Officer, Bay Area Council
Ted Fang, AsianWeek Foundation, SF Hep B Free Campaign member
WHEN: Saturday, October 31, 10:00 a.m.
WHERE: Chinese Hospital - 845 Jackson Street, San Francisco 94133
VISUALS:
• Individuals getting tested for hepatitis B
• Colorful lion dance troupe
• Guests include House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Assemblywoman Fiona Ma
• Interviews with San Francisco Hep B Free spokespersons, physicians, Hep B
patients, community and healthcare leaders
RSVP: Ayaka Emoto
ayaka@allisonpr.com - (o): 415-277-4915 - (c): 650-339-0470
###
ABOUT HBV: APIs are disproportionately impacted by Hepatitis B. It is a disease of the liver caused by HBV, a virus often called a "silent killer" because it can cause liver cancer, cirrhosis or liver failure without producing symptoms. Eighty percent of liver cancer in APIs is caused by HBV. But it's preventable with a simple vaccine.
ABOUT SF Hep B Free: SF Hep B Free (sfhepbfree.org) is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between city government, private healthcare and community organizations. The goal of the citywide campaign is to eradicate hepatitis B in San Francisco by screening, testing and vaccinating all API residents.
WHAT:
Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi will address the need for community based healthcare reform highlighting the example of San Francisco Hep B Free (sfhepbfree.org), a comprehensive campaign to prevent liver cancer resulting from hepatitis B. Approximately 1 in 10 Asian American Pacific Islanders (APIs) in San Francisco has an undiagnosed case of hepatitis B. San Francisco has the highest rate of liver cancer in the nation.
Assemblywoman Fiona Ma - who is chronically infected with hepatitis B - is among those who will join the Speaker. They will address how fear of pre-existing condition exclusions discourages people from taking measures to prevent liver cancer, and how SF Hep B Free is addressing this issue. They also will request the partnership of the Bay Area's largest and most well-known businesses in helping to address hepatitis B.
WHO:
Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi
Assemblywoman Fiona Ma, a chronic hep B patient
Congresswoman Jackie Speier
Dr. Garth Graham, Director of Office Minority Health
David Chiu, San Francisco Board of Supervisors President
Jim Wunderman, President and Chief Executive Officer, Bay Area Council
Ted Fang, AsianWeek Foundation, SF Hep B Free Campaign member
WHEN: Saturday, October 31, 10:00 a.m.
WHERE: Chinese Hospital - 845 Jackson Street, San Francisco 94133
VISUALS:
• Individuals getting tested for hepatitis B
• Colorful lion dance troupe
• Guests include House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Assemblywoman Fiona Ma
• Interviews with San Francisco Hep B Free spokespersons, physicians, Hep B
patients, community and healthcare leaders
RSVP: Ayaka Emoto
ayaka@allisonpr.com - (o): 415-277-4915 - (c): 650-339-0470
###
ABOUT HBV: APIs are disproportionately impacted by Hepatitis B. It is a disease of the liver caused by HBV, a virus often called a "silent killer" because it can cause liver cancer, cirrhosis or liver failure without producing symptoms. Eighty percent of liver cancer in APIs is caused by HBV. But it's preventable with a simple vaccine.
ABOUT SF Hep B Free: SF Hep B Free (sfhepbfree.org) is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between city government, private healthcare and community organizations. The goal of the citywide campaign is to eradicate hepatitis B in San Francisco by screening, testing and vaccinating all API residents.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Subaru Donates “Hep B Hero Mobile” to Support Campaign
-- Company Supports Asian/Pacific Islander Community in Promoting Hep B Awareness --
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Christine Hsu, media@sfhepbfree.org or Angela Pang, apang@asianweek.com, work: (415) 321-5894
Subaru Hep B Mobile SAN FRANCISCO, CA, October 15, 2009 - Subaru of America is joining the San Francisco Hep B Free campaign as the official vehicle and partner by donating the use of a 2010 Subaru Legacy detailed with full color artwork promoting the campaign theme which calls on everyone to "B a Hero" in preventing liver cancer and the hepatitis B disease.
Hepatitis B causes up to 80 percent of all liver cancers, and disproportionately affects 1 in 10 Asian and Pacific Islanders. A safe and effective vaccine prevents infection and liver cancer caused by hepatitis B. The most important step towards eliminating hepatitis B disease is by bring tested for infection in your doctor's office.
The new model 2010 Subaru Legacy Sedan is black with a cape design and features the "B" emblem of the campaign along with the Subaru logo. It will debut at the 2nd annual B a Hero Gala - a benefit fundraiser for SF Hep B Free, the citywide campaign to screen and vaccinate all Asian and Pacific Islanders for hepatitis B. The car will be on display in front of the Empress of China on Oct 15 from 5:30 to 9pm and will be featured in prominent Bay Area Asian American oriented events including the Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival, Pistahan Parade and Festival and Autumn Moon Festival. The car will make its traveling road show debut on November 4 at the San Mateo Hep B Free launch.
"Subaru is committed to helping educate the community and increase awareness through the Hep B Free movement," said Todd Lawrence, promotions and sponsorship manager, Subaru of America, Inc. "The Asian American/Pacific Islander community is one of the most vibrant and fastest growing in America. We are proud to be part of the community's good health initiatives and continued development.
HBV is the greatest health disparity between Asians and non-Asians. One in 10 Asians are chronically infected with Hep B and are four times more likely to die from liver cancer compared with the general population. 80 percent of liver cancer worldwide is caused by chronic HBV infection. Early detection of HBV will benefit the carrier as well as prevent the infection from spreading. Hepatitis B is not only vaccine preventable, but it also has effective treatments that can slow or prevent liver damage caused by the disease.
"The Asian community draws its heritage from some of the oldest cultures in the world. Today Subaru is starting a new "legacy" with the donation of this Subaru Legacy and becoming the first car company to become a major player in the health and well-being of the growing Asian/Pacific Islander community," said Ted Fang, AsianWeek Foundation Director and SF Hep B Free Steering Committee Member.
"Thanks to Subaru's generosity, SF Hep B Free is delighted to have the hepatitis B awareness message displayed in such an innovative and fun manner," said Janet Zola, Health Prevention Specialist with the SF Dept. of Public Health and SF Hep B Free Steering Committee Member. "We are on the right path to eliminating the transmission of this very serious disease as we encourage everyone to be screened and vaccinated if they have not yet done so."
San Francisco Hep B Free
www.sfhepbfree.org
San Francisco Hep B Free is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between city government, private healthcare and community organizations. The program's goal is to make San Francisco a hepatitis B-free city by (1) creating public and healthcare provider awareness about the importance of testing & vaccinating APIS for hepatitis B; (2) promoting routine HBV screenings and vaccinations within the primary care medical community; and (3) facilitating access to treatment for chronically infected individuals. SF Hep B Free is a project of Community Initiatives, a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization.
The AsianWeek Foundation
www.asianweek.com
The AsianWeek Foundation is a founding Steering Committee member of the Hep B Free campaign and focuses on community organizing and strategic partnerships. AsianWeek Foundation's purpose is to bring together the diverse segments, organizations and individuals of the Asian Pacific/Islander community. AsianWeek Foundation also organizes the Asian Heritage Street Celebration, a celebration of traditional and contemporary culture in Asian Pacific America. It is the largest one-day gathering of Asians in America. www.asianfairsf.com
Subaru of America, Inc.
Subaru of America, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J., the company markets and distributes Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of nearly 600 dealers across the United States. Subaru boasts the most fuel efficient line-up of all-wheel drive products sold in the market today based on Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) fuel economy standards. All Subaru products are manufactured in zero- landfill production plants and Subaru of Indiana Automotive Inc. is the only U.S. automobile production plant to be designated a backyard wildlife Habitat by the National Wildlife Federation. For additional information visit www.subaru.com
###
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Christine Hsu, media@sfhepbfree.org or Angela Pang, apang@asianweek.com, work: (415) 321-5894
Subaru Hep B Mobile SAN FRANCISCO, CA, October 15, 2009 - Subaru of America is joining the San Francisco Hep B Free campaign as the official vehicle and partner by donating the use of a 2010 Subaru Legacy detailed with full color artwork promoting the campaign theme which calls on everyone to "B a Hero" in preventing liver cancer and the hepatitis B disease.
Hepatitis B causes up to 80 percent of all liver cancers, and disproportionately affects 1 in 10 Asian and Pacific Islanders. A safe and effective vaccine prevents infection and liver cancer caused by hepatitis B. The most important step towards eliminating hepatitis B disease is by bring tested for infection in your doctor's office.
The new model 2010 Subaru Legacy Sedan is black with a cape design and features the "B" emblem of the campaign along with the Subaru logo. It will debut at the 2nd annual B a Hero Gala - a benefit fundraiser for SF Hep B Free, the citywide campaign to screen and vaccinate all Asian and Pacific Islanders for hepatitis B. The car will be on display in front of the Empress of China on Oct 15 from 5:30 to 9pm and will be featured in prominent Bay Area Asian American oriented events including the Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival, Pistahan Parade and Festival and Autumn Moon Festival. The car will make its traveling road show debut on November 4 at the San Mateo Hep B Free launch.
"Subaru is committed to helping educate the community and increase awareness through the Hep B Free movement," said Todd Lawrence, promotions and sponsorship manager, Subaru of America, Inc. "The Asian American/Pacific Islander community is one of the most vibrant and fastest growing in America. We are proud to be part of the community's good health initiatives and continued development.
HBV is the greatest health disparity between Asians and non-Asians. One in 10 Asians are chronically infected with Hep B and are four times more likely to die from liver cancer compared with the general population. 80 percent of liver cancer worldwide is caused by chronic HBV infection. Early detection of HBV will benefit the carrier as well as prevent the infection from spreading. Hepatitis B is not only vaccine preventable, but it also has effective treatments that can slow or prevent liver damage caused by the disease.
"The Asian community draws its heritage from some of the oldest cultures in the world. Today Subaru is starting a new "legacy" with the donation of this Subaru Legacy and becoming the first car company to become a major player in the health and well-being of the growing Asian/Pacific Islander community," said Ted Fang, AsianWeek Foundation Director and SF Hep B Free Steering Committee Member.
"Thanks to Subaru's generosity, SF Hep B Free is delighted to have the hepatitis B awareness message displayed in such an innovative and fun manner," said Janet Zola, Health Prevention Specialist with the SF Dept. of Public Health and SF Hep B Free Steering Committee Member. "We are on the right path to eliminating the transmission of this very serious disease as we encourage everyone to be screened and vaccinated if they have not yet done so."
San Francisco Hep B Free
www.sfhepbfree.org
San Francisco Hep B Free is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between city government, private healthcare and community organizations. The program's goal is to make San Francisco a hepatitis B-free city by (1) creating public and healthcare provider awareness about the importance of testing & vaccinating APIS for hepatitis B; (2) promoting routine HBV screenings and vaccinations within the primary care medical community; and (3) facilitating access to treatment for chronically infected individuals. SF Hep B Free is a project of Community Initiatives, a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization.
The AsianWeek Foundation
www.asianweek.com
The AsianWeek Foundation is a founding Steering Committee member of the Hep B Free campaign and focuses on community organizing and strategic partnerships. AsianWeek Foundation's purpose is to bring together the diverse segments, organizations and individuals of the Asian Pacific/Islander community. AsianWeek Foundation also organizes the Asian Heritage Street Celebration, a celebration of traditional and contemporary culture in Asian Pacific America. It is the largest one-day gathering of Asians in America. www.asianfairsf.com
Subaru of America, Inc.
Subaru of America, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J., the company markets and distributes Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of nearly 600 dealers across the United States. Subaru boasts the most fuel efficient line-up of all-wheel drive products sold in the market today based on Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) fuel economy standards. All Subaru products are manufactured in zero- landfill production plants and Subaru of Indiana Automotive Inc. is the only U.S. automobile production plant to be designated a backyard wildlife Habitat by the National Wildlife Federation. For additional information visit www.subaru.com
###
SF Hep B Free Gala Supports Free Chinatown Screenings
-Chinese Hospital, Chinatown community organizations and benevolent associations partner to stop liver cancer-
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Christine Hsu, media@sfhepbfree.org or Angela Pang, apang@asianweek.com, work: (415) 321-5894, cell: (650) 703-9364
SAN FRANCISCO, October 15, 2009 - SF Hep B Free is partnering with Chinese Family Associations, Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association and Chinese Hospital, to offer free hepatitis B screenings in Chinatown. The program will be announced at San Francisco Hep B Free gala on Thursday October 15 at the Empress of China Restaurant. Screening for hepatitis B disease is the most effective way to prevent liver cancer.
"We are happy to support hepatitis B testing in Chinatown and hope the screenings will be successful," said Albert G. Chin, president of the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association.
Hepatitis B causes up to 80% of all liver cancers, and disproportionately affects 1 in 10 Asian and Pacific Islanders. A safe and effective vaccine prevents infection and liver cancer cause by hepatitis B. The most important step towards eliminating hepatitis B disease is by being tested for infection in your doctor's office.
The Chinatown community testing program is being provided by Chinese Hospital and will take place with screening events to be held in selected Chinatown locations. Chinese Hospital will provide results to all those tested.
"Hepatitis B is a very important health issue and everyone who does not know if their status, should become tested," said San Francisco Health Commissioner Edward A. Chow, M.D.
SF Hep B Free is supported by Mayor Gavin Newsom, Assemblywoman Fiona Ma, and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
###
ABOUT Hepatitis B
Asian and Pacific Islanders (APIs) are disproportionately impacted by Hepatitis B. It is a disease of the liver caused by HBV, a virus often called a "silent killer" because it can cause liver cancer, cirrhosis or liver failure without producing symptoms. San Francisco has the highest liver cancer rate in the nation and 80% of liver cancer in APIs is caused by HBV. But it's preventable with a simple vaccine.
ABOUT San Francisco Hep B Free
www.sfhepbfree.org
San Francisco Hep B Free is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between city government, private healthcare and community organizations. The program's goal is to make San Francisco a hepatitis B-free city by (1) creating public and healthcare provider awareness about the importance of testing & vaccinating APIS for hepatitis B; (2) promoting routine HBV screenings and vaccinations within the primary care medical community; and (3) facilitating access to treatment for chronically infected individuals. The campaign's theme is "B a Hero. See a doctor who tests for Hepatitis B."
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Christine Hsu, media@sfhepbfree.org or Angela Pang, apang@asianweek.com, work: (415) 321-5894, cell: (650) 703-9364
SAN FRANCISCO, October 15, 2009 - SF Hep B Free is partnering with Chinese Family Associations, Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association and Chinese Hospital, to offer free hepatitis B screenings in Chinatown. The program will be announced at San Francisco Hep B Free gala on Thursday October 15 at the Empress of China Restaurant. Screening for hepatitis B disease is the most effective way to prevent liver cancer.
"We are happy to support hepatitis B testing in Chinatown and hope the screenings will be successful," said Albert G. Chin, president of the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association.
Hepatitis B causes up to 80% of all liver cancers, and disproportionately affects 1 in 10 Asian and Pacific Islanders. A safe and effective vaccine prevents infection and liver cancer cause by hepatitis B. The most important step towards eliminating hepatitis B disease is by being tested for infection in your doctor's office.
The Chinatown community testing program is being provided by Chinese Hospital and will take place with screening events to be held in selected Chinatown locations. Chinese Hospital will provide results to all those tested.
"Hepatitis B is a very important health issue and everyone who does not know if their status, should become tested," said San Francisco Health Commissioner Edward A. Chow, M.D.
SF Hep B Free is supported by Mayor Gavin Newsom, Assemblywoman Fiona Ma, and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
###
ABOUT Hepatitis B
Asian and Pacific Islanders (APIs) are disproportionately impacted by Hepatitis B. It is a disease of the liver caused by HBV, a virus often called a "silent killer" because it can cause liver cancer, cirrhosis or liver failure without producing symptoms. San Francisco has the highest liver cancer rate in the nation and 80% of liver cancer in APIs is caused by HBV. But it's preventable with a simple vaccine.
ABOUT San Francisco Hep B Free
www.sfhepbfree.org
San Francisco Hep B Free is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between city government, private healthcare and community organizations. The program's goal is to make San Francisco a hepatitis B-free city by (1) creating public and healthcare provider awareness about the importance of testing & vaccinating APIS for hepatitis B; (2) promoting routine HBV screenings and vaccinations within the primary care medical community; and (3) facilitating access to treatment for chronically infected individuals. The campaign's theme is "B a Hero. See a doctor who tests for Hepatitis B."
Friday, October 2, 2009
Press Release: "Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association Partners with San Francisco Hep B Free"
SF Hep B Free
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Dr. Mitch Katz, Executive Director SF Dept of Public Health
Edward A. Chow, M.D., San Francisco Health Commissioner
Brenda Yee, President Chinese Hospital
Ted Fang, AsianWeek Foundation
Bong L. Wong, Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association
Tong Jack Lew, Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association
Damon Yee, Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association
Wing Y. Leung, Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association
Larry Lo, Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association
Michael Kay, Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association
Ivan S. Pung, Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association
Albert G. Chin, Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association
WHERE: Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association
843 Stockton St.
San Francisco, CA
RSVP to: Angela Pang, apang@asianweek.com, (415) 321-5894
About Hepatitis B
San Francisco has the highest liver cancer rate in the nation, due to its high population of Asian Americans. HBV is the greatest health disparity between Asians and non-Asians. One in 10 Asians are chronically infected with Hep B and are 4 times more likely to die from liver cancer compared with the general population. 80% of liver cancer worldwide is caused by chronic HBV infection. Early detection of HBV will benefit the carrier as well as prevent the infection from spreading. Hepatitis B is not only vaccine preventable, but it also has effective treatments that can slow or prevent liver damage caused by the disease.
About San Francisco Hep B Free
San Francisco Hep B Free is a multi-faceted and comprehensive citywide campaign to turn San Francisco into the first HBV free city in the nation. It has become the model for the country and is being replicated in Washington DC, Philadelphia, San Mateo County, Los Angeles County, Orange County and other municipalities.
About B a Hero Gala Fundraiser
B a Hero Gala Dinner on Thursday, October 15, 2009 at the Empress of China Restaurant Grand Ballroom, 838 Grant Ave, San Francisco, beginning at 6pm. This dinner will support free Hepatitis B screenings in Chinatown, partnering with Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association members and Chinese Hospital.
Special rate for community members of $100 ticket or $1,000 per table. For information and reservations contact Tamiko Wong, twong@awfoundation.com or (415) 321-5865.
sfhepbfree.org
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association Partners with San Francisco Hep B Free
Annual B a Hero Gala Dinner on October 15 to support
free Chinatown screening program with Chinese Hospital
free Chinatown screening program with Chinese Hospital
SAN FRANCISCO - San Francisco has the highest rate of liver cancer in the country, primarily among Chinese and Asian residents. 80% of all liver cancer is caused by Hepatitis B infection. Chinese and Asians are 100 times more likely to be infected with Hep B than non-Asians. One out of 10 Chinese has chronic Hep B disease and could develop liver cancer. Only one out of 1,000 non-Asians is infected with Hep B.
There is a vaccine that prevents Hepatitis B infection, and there is medicine to prevent liver cancer.
SF Hep B Free will hold a dinner fundraiser on Thursday October 15 at the Empress of China. This dinner will support a partnership with the Chinese Family Associations and the Chinese Hospital, to offer free Hep B screenings in Chinatown. All Chinese and Asians in San Francisco should be tested for Hep B and see their doctor.
WHAT: B a Hero Gala fundraiser on Oct. 15, at the Empress of China Restaurant in San Francisco Chinatown, partnering with the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association, Chinese Family Associations, and Chinese Hospital to provide free hepatitis B screenings in Chinatown.
WHEN: Monday October 5, 1:30 pm
Dr. Mitch Katz, Executive Director SF Dept of Public Health
Edward A. Chow, M.D., San Francisco Health Commissioner
Brenda Yee, President Chinese Hospital
Ted Fang, AsianWeek Foundation
Bong L. Wong, Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association
Tong Jack Lew, Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association
Damon Yee, Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association
Wing Y. Leung, Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association
Larry Lo, Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association
Michael Kay, Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association
Ivan S. Pung, Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association
Albert G. Chin, Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association
WHERE: Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association
843 Stockton St.
San Francisco, CA
RSVP to: Angela Pang, apang@asianweek.com, (415) 321-5894
###
About Hepatitis B
San Francisco has the highest liver cancer rate in the nation, due to its high population of Asian Americans. HBV is the greatest health disparity between Asians and non-Asians. One in 10 Asians are chronically infected with Hep B and are 4 times more likely to die from liver cancer compared with the general population. 80% of liver cancer worldwide is caused by chronic HBV infection. Early detection of HBV will benefit the carrier as well as prevent the infection from spreading. Hepatitis B is not only vaccine preventable, but it also has effective treatments that can slow or prevent liver damage caused by the disease.
About San Francisco Hep B Free
San Francisco Hep B Free is a multi-faceted and comprehensive citywide campaign to turn San Francisco into the first HBV free city in the nation. It has become the model for the country and is being replicated in Washington DC, Philadelphia, San Mateo County, Los Angeles County, Orange County and other municipalities.
About B a Hero Gala Fundraiser
B a Hero Gala Dinner on Thursday, October 15, 2009 at the Empress of China Restaurant Grand Ballroom, 838 Grant Ave, San Francisco, beginning at 6pm. This dinner will support free Hepatitis B screenings in Chinatown, partnering with Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association members and Chinese Hospital.
Special rate for community members of $100 ticket or $1,000 per table. For information and reservations contact Tamiko Wong, twong@awfoundation.com or (415) 321-5865.
sfhepbfree.org
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Press Release: "Mayor Gavin Newsom Orders Hepatitis B Educational Materials to Be Distributed to the City's Newlyweds"
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Christine Hsu, media@sfhepbfree.org
or
Angela Pang, apang@asianweek.com, (415) 321-5894
Mayor Gavin Newsom Orders Hepatitis B Educational Materials to Be Distributed to the City's Newlyweds
SAN FRANCISCO, CA, September 9, 2009 - All couples registering for marriage licenses in San Francisco will now receive additional information on Hepatitis B, thanks to an executive directive issued by San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom on September 9, 2009, an auspicious day for many Asians. The directive orders the San Francisco County Clerk to offer information on hepatitis B testing and vaccination locations along with the required marriage license booklet. Hepatitis B information will be prepared and supplied by the Department of Public Health.
"The prevalence of Hepatitis B in San Francisco's Asian community demands intervention to increase awareness of this vaccine preventable disease," says Mayor Gavin Newsom in his executive directive. Mayor Newsom and Assemblywoman Fiona Ma, both active supporters of San Francisco Hep B Free, are leading the Hepatitis B awareness effort, along with more than 50 healthcare and Asian Pacific Islander (API) organizations.
San Francisco has the highest liver cancer rate in the nation, due to its high population of Asian Americans. HBV is the greatest health disparity between Asians and non-Asians. One in 10 Asians are chronically infected with Hep B and are 4 times more likely to die from liver cancer compared with the general population. 80% of liver cancer worldwide is caused by chronic HBV infection. Early detection of HBV will benefit the carrier as well as prevent the infection from spreading. Hepatitis B is not only vaccine preventable, but it also has effective treatments that can slow or prevent liver damage caused by the disease.
The SF Board of Supervisors and SF Health Commission have passed unanimous resolutions supporting SF Hep B Free. The campaign puts San Francisco at the forefront of the nation in fighting chronic hepatitis B. It is the largest, most intensive healthcare campaign for Asian and Pacific Islanders in the U.S. This initiative has received national attention and is being looked to as a model by the California legislature.
###
About San Francisco Hep B Free Campaign
San Francisco Hep B Free is a citywide campaign to turn San Francisco into the first HBV free city in the nation. This unprecedented campaign will screen, vaccinate and treat all San Francisco Asian and Pacific Islander (API) residents for HBV by providing convenient, free or low-cost testing opportunities at partnering health facilities and events.
San Francisco Hep B Free will be hosting its 2nd annual fundraiser - the B a Hero Gala on Thursday, October 15, 2009 at the Empress of China Restaurant Grand Ballroom located at 838 Grant Ave, San Francisco, beginning at 6pm. For more information contact Tamiko Wong, twong@awfoundation.com or (415) 321-5865.
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Press Release: "Have an 'Unexpected Encounter' With Two Talented APA Musicians"
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Christine Hsu, media@sfhepbfree.org
or
Steve Liu, 206.972.3560, steven@vivesf.com
Have an "Unexpected Encounter" With Two Talented APA Musicians
-Odessa Chen and Alice Tong headline dinner benefiting the San Francisco Hep B Free Campaign-
-Odessa Chen and Alice Tong headline dinner benefiting the San Francisco Hep B Free Campaign-
From left to right: Odessa Chen, photo courtesy of Elena Maria LaCuesta, and Alice Tong
SAN FRANCISCO, CA, August 11, 2009 - Two beautiful up and coming Asian Pacific American female musicians - Odessa Chen and Alice Tong, have joined the San Francisco Hep B Free Campaign to help promote awareness about the impact of the hepatitis b virus (HBV) on Asian Pacific Americans. The two will be performing at "An Unexpected Encounter: A night on the town filled with music, dinner & friends" on Friday Aug. 21, from 6 to 9pm at Jillians, located at 101 4th St., inside the San Francisco Metreon. Attendees will enjoy a scrumptious 3-course meal featuring chicken picatta, spaghetti and sausage, or vegetable skewers, enjoy amazing musical performances, and learn about hepatitis B. Tickets are $45 per person. All proceeds will benefit S.F. Hep B Free - a citywide campaign to turn San Francisco into the first hepatitis B free city in the nation.
"The fact that 1 in 10 Asians is infected, is alarming. As an Asian American, I want to do what I can to help raise awareness of this disease, and am happy to use my music to do so," says Odessa Chen, a guitarist and vocalist whose work has appeared in independent films, compilations, and on radio stations. "This will be fun event, and is not to be missed!"
Guests will be in for a treat, as Chen plans to perform for the first time, "Giving Up the Ghosts," a love song from an upcoming album.
HBV is the greatest health disparity between Asians and non-Asians. One in 10 Asians are chronically infected with hepatitis B and of those who are infected, 25% will die prematurely from liver disease. 80% of liver cancer worldwide is caused by chronic HBV infection. Hepatitis B is not only vaccine preventable, but it also has effective treatments that can slow or prevent liver damage caused by the disease.
"With both my father and grandmother being survivors of hepatitis B, this is an issue that is both personal to me and too widespread to be overlooked in our community as Asian Americans," says Alice Tong, whose music has been in independent films, including "American Fusion" which won the Audience Award at the Hawaii International Film Festival. "I really admire the work SF Hep B Free is doing to educate our community and am looking forward to being able to contribute to this important cause on Aug. 21st."
The event is being organized by vive, a new Asian Pacific American events company.
For sponsorship opportunities email steven@vivesf.com
Tickets can be purchased at www.vivesf.com.
What: An Unexpected Encounter: A night on the town with music, dinner, and friends, a benefit for SF Hep B Free
When: Friday, Aug. 21, 6pm to 9pm
Where: Jillians, 101 4th St., inside the San Francisco Metreon
Cost: $45
###
About San Francisco Hep B Free Campaign
San Francisco Hep B Free is a citywide campaign to turn San Francisco into the first HBV free city in the nation. This unprecedented 2-year-long campaign will screen, vaccinate and treat all San Francisco Asian and Pacific Islander (API) residents of HBV by providing convenient, free or low-cost testing opportunities at partnering health facilities and events.
http://www.sfhepbfree.org
About Odessa Chen
Described as intelligent, subtle, and haunting, Odessa Chen's pure, ethereal voice and finger-picking guitar style has attracted international attention with her debut One Room Palace (2003) and has laid the foundation for her current release The Ballad of Paper Ships, which she wrote, produced, and arranged. Chen has been interviewed on NPR, MTV and KRON4's Pacific Fusion TV.
http://www.odessachen.com/
About Alice Tong
Alice Tong is a singer, songwriter, artist, activist, social worker, 2nd generation Chinese-Taiwanese-American. Tong has a BA in Ethnomusicology and a Masters in Social Work. Her musical style ranges from such categories as folk rock, indie rock, soul, and jazz. Alice's album "Small" can be bought on iTunes.
http://www.myspace.com/alicetongmusic
About vive
Wanting to give young Asian Pacific Americans the opportunity on Friday and Saturday nights to do more than just hitting San Francisco's bustling club scene, vive launched in Feb. 2009, to combine people's love for a lively atmosphere with a chance to express and absorb APA heritage and culture. Bringing together all groups of people, Asian Americans and non Asians, to be inspired by the art and community that stem from Asian/Pacific Islander cultures, vive promotes healthy development of Asian Pacific American identity by promoting events, concerts, and activities.
http://www.vivesf.com
Friday, July 17, 2009
Miss Asian America Pageant Joins the Jade Ribbon Campaign to Fight Hepatitis B and Liver Cancer
SAN FRANCISCO, CA - Bay Area Contestants of the longest running Miss Asian pageant in the United States will make their first appearance at Chef Khai Duong's Ana Mandara Restaurant (891 Beach St @ Polk) on Saturday, July 18 at 2pm.
The 24th Miss Asian America Pageant, a Celebration of Beauty, Culture and Talent will be held on Saturday, August 8 at the Palace of Fine Arts Theatre in San Francisco. Curtain time is 6:45pm.
The pageant will continue to bring awareness about Hepatitis B and liver cancer which affects as many as 1 out of 10 Asian and Pacific Islander Americans (API). One out of every four Hepatitis B carrier will eventually die of liver cancer of liver failure. Most do not know that they are infected.
Twenty-three contestants from all over the United States will be competing for the title of Miss Asian America 2009-2010. The categories of competition are Ethnic Costume/Self Introductions, Swimsuit, Evening Gown, Talent and Speech Presentation.
The pageant is made possible by the generous support of our sponsors, Van
Vic Express, Yes Style.com, Blue Moon, Jack Lee Fong Insurance Agency, Kwong Sang Lung Co., Michael Toshio Cuisine, World Channel, Sugar Bowl Bakery, Monster Cable, La Princesse Salon and Spa, QC Designs, Pier 39, Shangri-La Lotus Salon, American Legion Cathay Post 384, Wax Museum Fisherman's Wharf, Cache Creek Casino, Chinatown Merchants Association and Bich Lien Beauty Care.
###
About the Miss Asian America Pageant
Founded by Rose Chung, the Miss Asian America Pageant has been the premier event in Asian American community for the past two decades and the longest running Asian American pageant in the United States. From our humble beginnings in 1985 with the Asian American Arts Festival, our event has expanded to an internationally recognized event with regional competitions nationwide.
Since its inception, the Miss Asian America Pageant has been more than a platform for the growth and inspiration of young Asian America women, it has also been about building a strong community for Asian America.
http://www.missasianamerica.com
The 24th Miss Asian America Pageant, a Celebration of Beauty, Culture and Talent will be held on Saturday, August 8 at the Palace of Fine Arts Theatre in San Francisco. Curtain time is 6:45pm.
The pageant will continue to bring awareness about Hepatitis B and liver cancer which affects as many as 1 out of 10 Asian and Pacific Islander Americans (API). One out of every four Hepatitis B carrier will eventually die of liver cancer of liver failure. Most do not know that they are infected.
Twenty-three contestants from all over the United States will be competing for the title of Miss Asian America 2009-2010. The categories of competition are Ethnic Costume/Self Introductions, Swimsuit, Evening Gown, Talent and Speech Presentation.
The pageant is made possible by the generous support of our sponsors, Van
Vic Express, Yes Style.com, Blue Moon, Jack Lee Fong Insurance Agency, Kwong Sang Lung Co., Michael Toshio Cuisine, World Channel, Sugar Bowl Bakery, Monster Cable, La Princesse Salon and Spa, QC Designs, Pier 39, Shangri-La Lotus Salon, American Legion Cathay Post 384, Wax Museum Fisherman's Wharf, Cache Creek Casino, Chinatown Merchants Association and Bich Lien Beauty Care.
###
About the Miss Asian America Pageant
Founded by Rose Chung, the Miss Asian America Pageant has been the premier event in Asian American community for the past two decades and the longest running Asian American pageant in the United States. From our humble beginnings in 1985 with the Asian American Arts Festival, our event has expanded to an internationally recognized event with regional competitions nationwide.
Since its inception, the Miss Asian America Pageant has been more than a platform for the growth and inspiration of young Asian America women, it has also been about building a strong community for Asian America.
http://www.missasianamerica.com
Monday, June 29, 2009
Media Advisory: "SF Hep B Free and Supervisor Maxwell Promote Hepatitis B Awareness in Visitacion Valley"
Media Advisory
June 29, 2009
WHAT: To further promote their citywide effort to educate, screen, and vaccinate all Asian and Pacific Islanders for hepatitis B, SF Hep B Free has teamed up with Supervisor Sophie Maxwell to outreach to the Asian American community in Visitacion Valley. Maxwell along with representatives from the neighborhood, and the SF Hep B Free campaign will distribute free bright-yellow biodegradeable shopping bags with imprinted hepatitis B prevention messages to local merchants.
"Hepatitis B is manageable and preventable," said District 10 Supervisor Sophie Maxwell. "It is important for people to get tested and become informed about Hepatitis B."
One side of the bag carries the "B a Hero" logo of the SF Hep B Free campaign, which encourages all San Franciscans to be a hero by simply getting tested for the hepatitis B virus and encouraging their friends and families to get tested as well. The other side of the bag displays the hepatitis B message in four languages: English, Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean.
The SF Hep B Free bags were donated by Hayward-based Tri Star Plastic, Inc. Tri Star CEO Andrew Chen's father was diagnosed with chronic hepatitis B several years ago and underwent a successful liver transplant. Now, Chen says he wishes to do whatever he can to let people know about hepatitis B, which, left unmonitored and untreated, can cause cirrhosis of the liver, liver cancer and liver failure. Hepatitis B is responsible for one-in-four liver cancer cases among Asian and Pacific Islander Americans.
"Hepatitis B is a serious disease," says Chen. "I'd like to see more dialogue about this disease and more action, so that more lives can be saved."
WHEN: Monday, June 29, 2009, 11:30 am
WHO: Sophie Maxwell, San Francisco Board of Supervisors, District 10
Ted Fang, AsianWeek Foundation, SF Hep B Free Campaign member
Janet Zola, Health Prevention Specialist, SF Dept. of Public Health
WHERE: Departing from Sterling Bank at 11:45am.
2555 San Bruno Avenue (near Burrows)
San Francisco, CA
*Call Angela Pang at (650) 703-9364, if running late.
VISUALS: Interviews with SF Hep B Free spokespersons and Supervisor Maxwell.
ABOUT HBV: Asian and Pacific Islanders (APIs) are disproportionately impacted by Hepatitis B. It is a disease of the liver caused by HBV, a virus often called a "silent killer" because it can cause liver cancer, cirrhosis or liver failure without producing symptoms. San Francisco has the highest liver cancer rate in the nation and 80% of liver cancer in APIs is caused by HBV. But it's preventable with a simple vaccine.
ABOUT SF Hep B Free: SF Hep B Free is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between city government, private healthcare and community organizations. The program's goal is to make San Francisco a hepatitis B-free city by (1) creating public and healthcare provider awareness about the importance of testing & vaccinating APIS for hepatitis B; (2) promoting routine HBV screenings and vaccinations within the primary care medical community; and (3) facilitating access to treatment for chronically infected individuals.
http://www.sfhepbfree.org
June 29, 2009
SF Hep B Free and Supervisor Maxwell Promote Hepatitis B Awareness in Visitacion Valley
-Free biodegradable grocery bags to be distributed to local merchants-
-Free biodegradable grocery bags to be distributed to local merchants-
WHAT: To further promote their citywide effort to educate, screen, and vaccinate all Asian and Pacific Islanders for hepatitis B, SF Hep B Free has teamed up with Supervisor Sophie Maxwell to outreach to the Asian American community in Visitacion Valley. Maxwell along with representatives from the neighborhood, and the SF Hep B Free campaign will distribute free bright-yellow biodegradeable shopping bags with imprinted hepatitis B prevention messages to local merchants.
"Hepatitis B is manageable and preventable," said District 10 Supervisor Sophie Maxwell. "It is important for people to get tested and become informed about Hepatitis B."
One side of the bag carries the "B a Hero" logo of the SF Hep B Free campaign, which encourages all San Franciscans to be a hero by simply getting tested for the hepatitis B virus and encouraging their friends and families to get tested as well. The other side of the bag displays the hepatitis B message in four languages: English, Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean.
The SF Hep B Free bags were donated by Hayward-based Tri Star Plastic, Inc. Tri Star CEO Andrew Chen's father was diagnosed with chronic hepatitis B several years ago and underwent a successful liver transplant. Now, Chen says he wishes to do whatever he can to let people know about hepatitis B, which, left unmonitored and untreated, can cause cirrhosis of the liver, liver cancer and liver failure. Hepatitis B is responsible for one-in-four liver cancer cases among Asian and Pacific Islander Americans.
"Hepatitis B is a serious disease," says Chen. "I'd like to see more dialogue about this disease and more action, so that more lives can be saved."
WHEN: Monday, June 29, 2009, 11:30 am
WHO: Sophie Maxwell, San Francisco Board of Supervisors, District 10
Ted Fang, AsianWeek Foundation, SF Hep B Free Campaign member
Janet Zola, Health Prevention Specialist, SF Dept. of Public Health
WHERE: Departing from Sterling Bank at 11:45am.
2555 San Bruno Avenue (near Burrows)
San Francisco, CA
*Call Angela Pang at (650) 703-9364, if running late.
VISUALS: Interviews with SF Hep B Free spokespersons and Supervisor Maxwell.
###
ABOUT HBV: Asian and Pacific Islanders (APIs) are disproportionately impacted by Hepatitis B. It is a disease of the liver caused by HBV, a virus often called a "silent killer" because it can cause liver cancer, cirrhosis or liver failure without producing symptoms. San Francisco has the highest liver cancer rate in the nation and 80% of liver cancer in APIs is caused by HBV. But it's preventable with a simple vaccine.
ABOUT SF Hep B Free: SF Hep B Free is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between city government, private healthcare and community organizations. The program's goal is to make San Francisco a hepatitis B-free city by (1) creating public and healthcare provider awareness about the importance of testing & vaccinating APIS for hepatitis B; (2) promoting routine HBV screenings and vaccinations within the primary care medical community; and (3) facilitating access to treatment for chronically infected individuals.
http://www.sfhepbfree.org
SF Hep B Free and Supervisor Maxwell Promote Hepatitis B Awareness in Visitacion Valley
SF Hep B Free and Supervisor Maxwell Promote Hepatitis B Awareness in Visitacion Valley -Free biodegradable grocery bags to be distributed to local merchants-
WHAT: To further promote their citywide effort to educate, screen, and vaccinate all Asian and Pacific Islanders for hepatitis B, SF Hep B Free has teamed up with Supervisor Sophie Maxwell to outreach to the Asian American community in Visitacion Valley. Maxwell along with representatives from the neighborhood, and the SF Hep B Free campaign will distribute free bright-yellow biodegradeable shopping bags with imprinted hepatitis B prevention messages to local merchants.
"Hepatitis B is manageable and preventable," said District 10 Supervisor Sophie Maxwell. "It is important for people to get tested and become informed about Hepatitis B."
One side of the bag carries the "B a Hero" logo of the SF Hep B Free campaign, which encourages all San Franciscans to be a hero by simply getting tested for the hepatitis B virus and encouraging their friends and families to get tested as well. The other side of the bag displays the hepatitis B message in four languages: English, Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean.
The SF Hep B Free bags were donated by Hayward-based Tri Star Plastic, Inc. Tri Star CEO Andrew Chen's father was diagnosed with chronic hepatitis B several years ago and underwent a successful liver transplant. Now, Chen says he wishes to do whatever he can to let people know about hepatitis B, which, left unmonitored and untreated, can cause cirrhosis of the liver, liver cancer and liver failure. Hepatitis B is responsible for one-in-four liver cancer cases among Asian and Pacific Islander Americans.
"Hepatitis B is a serious disease," says Chen. "I'd like to see more dialogue about this disease and more action, so that more lives can be saved."
WHEN: Monday, June 29, 2009, 11:30 am
WHO: Sophie Maxwell, San Francisco Board of Supervisors, District 10
Ted Fang, AsianWeek Foundation, SF Hep B Free Campaign member
Janet Zola, Health Prevention Specialist, SF Dept. of Public Health
WHERE: Departing from Sterling Bank at 11:45am.
2555 San Bruno Avenue (near Burrows)
San Francisco, CA
VISUALS: Interviews with SF Hep B Free spokespersons and Supervisor Maxwell.
###
ABOUT HBV: Asian and Pacific Islanders (APIs) are disproportionately impacted by Hepatitis B. It is a disease of the liver caused by HBV, a virus often called a "silent killer" because it can cause liver cancer, cirrhosis or liver failure without producing symptoms. San Francisco has the highest liver cancer rate in the nation and 80% of liver cancer in APIs is caused by HBV. But it's preventable with a simple vaccine.
ABOUT SF Hep B Free: SF Hep B Free is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between city government, private healthcare and community organizations. The program's goal is to make San Francisco a hepatitis B-free city by (1) creating public and healthcare provider awareness about the importance of testing & vaccinating APIS for hepatitis B; (2) promoting routine HBV screenings and vaccinations within the primary care medical community; and (3) facilitating access to treatment for chronically infected individuals. http://www.sfhepbfree.org
Friday, June 26, 2009
Media Advisory: "SF Hep B Free and Supervisor Maxwell Promote Hepatitis B Awareness in Visitacion Valley"
Media Advisory
June 26, 2009
WHAT: To further promote their citywide effort to educate, screen, and vaccinate all Asian and Pacific Islanders for hepatitis B, SF Hep B Free has teamed up with Supervisor Sophie Maxwell to outreach to the Asian American community in Visitacion Valley. Maxwell along with representatives from the neighborhood, and the SF Hep B Free campaign will distribute free bright-yellow biodegradeable shopping bags with imprinted hepatitis B prevention messages to local merchants.
"Hepatitis B is manageable and preventable," said District 10 Supervisor Sophie Maxwell. "It is important for people to get tested and become informed about Hepatitis B."
One side of the bag carries the "B a Hero" logo of the SF Hep B Free campaign, which encourages all San Franciscans to be a hero by simply getting tested for the hepatitis B virus and encouraging their friends and families to get tested as well. The other side of the bag displays the hepatitis B message in four languages: English, Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean.
The SF Hep B Free bags were donated by Hayward-based Tri Star Plastic, Inc. Tri Star CEO Andrew Chen's father was diagnosed with chronic hepatitis B several years ago and underwent a successful liver transplant. Now, Chen says he wishes to do whatever he can to let people know about hepatitis B, which, left unmonitored and untreated, can cause cirrhosis of the liver, liver cancer and liver failure. Hepatitis B is responsible for one-in-four liver cancer cases among Asian and Pacific Islander Americans.
"Hepatitis B is a serious disease," says Chen. "I'd like to see more dialogue about this disease and more action, so that more lives can be saved."
WHEN: Monday, June 29, 2009, 11:30 am
WHO: Sophie Maxwell, San Francisco Board of Supervisors, District 10
Ted Fang, AsianWeek Foundation, SF Hep B Free Campaign member
Janet Zola, Health Prevention Specialist, SF Dept. of Public Health
WHERE: Departing from Sterling Bank at 11:45am.
2555 San Bruno Avenue (near Burrows)
San Francisco, CA
*Call Angela Pang at (650) 703-9364, if running late.
VISUALS: Interviews with SF Hep B Free spokespersons and Supervisor Maxwell.
ABOUT HBV: Asian and Pacific Islanders (APIs) are disproportionately impacted by Hepatitis B. It is a disease of the liver caused by HBV, a virus often called a "silent killer" because it can cause liver cancer, cirrhosis or liver failure without producing symptoms. San Francisco has the highest liver cancer rate in the nation and 80% of liver cancer in APIs is caused by HBV. But it's preventable with a simple vaccine.
ABOUT SF Hep B Free: SF Hep B Free is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between city government, private healthcare and community organizations. The program's goal is to make San Francisco a hepatitis B-free city by (1) creating public and healthcare provider awareness about the importance of testing & vaccinating APIS for hepatitis B; (2) promoting routine HBV screenings and vaccinations within the primary care medical community; and (3) facilitating access to treatment for chronically infected individuals.
http://www.sfhepbfree.org
June 26, 2009
SF Hep B Free and Supervisor Maxwell Promote Hepatitis B Awareness in Visitacion Valley
-Free biodegradable grocery bags to be distributed to local merchants-
-Free biodegradable grocery bags to be distributed to local merchants-
WHAT: To further promote their citywide effort to educate, screen, and vaccinate all Asian and Pacific Islanders for hepatitis B, SF Hep B Free has teamed up with Supervisor Sophie Maxwell to outreach to the Asian American community in Visitacion Valley. Maxwell along with representatives from the neighborhood, and the SF Hep B Free campaign will distribute free bright-yellow biodegradeable shopping bags with imprinted hepatitis B prevention messages to local merchants.
"Hepatitis B is manageable and preventable," said District 10 Supervisor Sophie Maxwell. "It is important for people to get tested and become informed about Hepatitis B."
One side of the bag carries the "B a Hero" logo of the SF Hep B Free campaign, which encourages all San Franciscans to be a hero by simply getting tested for the hepatitis B virus and encouraging their friends and families to get tested as well. The other side of the bag displays the hepatitis B message in four languages: English, Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean.
The SF Hep B Free bags were donated by Hayward-based Tri Star Plastic, Inc. Tri Star CEO Andrew Chen's father was diagnosed with chronic hepatitis B several years ago and underwent a successful liver transplant. Now, Chen says he wishes to do whatever he can to let people know about hepatitis B, which, left unmonitored and untreated, can cause cirrhosis of the liver, liver cancer and liver failure. Hepatitis B is responsible for one-in-four liver cancer cases among Asian and Pacific Islander Americans.
"Hepatitis B is a serious disease," says Chen. "I'd like to see more dialogue about this disease and more action, so that more lives can be saved."
WHEN: Monday, June 29, 2009, 11:30 am
WHO: Sophie Maxwell, San Francisco Board of Supervisors, District 10
Ted Fang, AsianWeek Foundation, SF Hep B Free Campaign member
Janet Zola, Health Prevention Specialist, SF Dept. of Public Health
WHERE: Departing from Sterling Bank at 11:45am.
2555 San Bruno Avenue (near Burrows)
San Francisco, CA
*Call Angela Pang at (650) 703-9364, if running late.
VISUALS: Interviews with SF Hep B Free spokespersons and Supervisor Maxwell.
###
ABOUT HBV: Asian and Pacific Islanders (APIs) are disproportionately impacted by Hepatitis B. It is a disease of the liver caused by HBV, a virus often called a "silent killer" because it can cause liver cancer, cirrhosis or liver failure without producing symptoms. San Francisco has the highest liver cancer rate in the nation and 80% of liver cancer in APIs is caused by HBV. But it's preventable with a simple vaccine.
ABOUT SF Hep B Free: SF Hep B Free is a first-of-its-kind collaboration between city government, private healthcare and community organizations. The program's goal is to make San Francisco a hepatitis B-free city by (1) creating public and healthcare provider awareness about the importance of testing & vaccinating APIS for hepatitis B; (2) promoting routine HBV screenings and vaccinations within the primary care medical community; and (3) facilitating access to treatment for chronically infected individuals.
http://www.sfhepbfree.org
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Press Release: "Asian Heritage Street Celebration Draws 100,000 Attendees"
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Angela Pang
AsianWeek Foundation
apang@asianweek.com
w: 415.321.5894
c: 650.703.9364
SAN FRANCISCO (May 19, 2009) - Approximately 100,000 people of all ages and races overflowed Larkin Street from McAllister to Ellis Streets to enjoy the sunshine and celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month in San Francisco on May 16.
The fifth annual Asian Heritage Street Celebration - the largest gathering of Asian Pacific Americans in the nation - featured a muay Thai kickboxing ring, delicious pan Asian cuisine, J-cars, tons of arts and crafts booths, Asian American musical artists, martial arts, a cultural procession, carnival rides and games, and more.
Presented by California Pacific Medical Center and Subaru, the 5th Annual Asian Heritage Street Celebration took place in San Francisco's Civic Center in front of the Asian Art Museum, leading up to the Little Saigon District.
The city's three Asian American Supervisors Carmen Chu, Eric Mar, and President of the Board of Supervisors David Chiu, kicked off the street fair with warm wishes and greetings for fairgoers at the Asian Art Museum stage. Chiu told the crowd it was fitting that the nation's largest Asian street celebration took place in the city because San Francisco is "the heart of our country's Asian American community."
Proud San Francisco Unified School District Awards parents surrounded the Little Saigon Stage, in the early afternoon with camcorders and digital cameras to snap footage of their children during the fair's annual SFUSD Student Awards Ceremony. For excellence in nutrition and fitness, forty-nine students received glass plaques designed by Dave San Pedro and created by Art Crystal, Ltd. The ceremony was part of the annual SFUSD Student Awards Program that the AHSC has hosted annually to recognize the accomplishments of students who are of Asian Pacific Islander heritage in categories not typically celebrated.
Approximately 160 people took advantage of the free hepatitis B screenings presented by California Pacific Medical Center and the San Francisco Hep B Free campaign.
Assemblywoman Fiona Ma and ABC7 anchor Alan Wang spoke at the Asian Art Museum Stage about the importance of getting screened for hepatitis B. Asian Pacific Islanders have the highest rate of the disease compared to any ethnic group, and it is estimated that 1 in 10 people in the API community have an undiagnosed infection. Both Ma and Wang have chronic hepatitis B and were infected at birth. Wang wore a jade ribbon during his 5pm, 6pm and 11pm newscast that evening, showing his support of hepatitis B awareness and is one of the first Asian American newscasters nationwide to do so.
In the late afternoon, the Asian Art Museum stage became a dance floor, as a crowd formed in front of the stage, bobbing their heads, swaying their hips and arms while jamming to the electric performance by Bay Area rapper Lyrics Born and wife Joyo Velarde.
"The crowd and event was fantastic!" exclaimed Lyrics Born, after his performance. "There aren't many Asians in the arts so it is important for others to see arts like myself out there performing to change that."
The AHSC, organized by the AsianWeek Foundation, is the only outdoor event in the Bay Area to rotate its location each year in order to showcase that APIs reside in all San Francisco neighborhoods. The first Celebration highlighted the Japanese community in Japantown, the second showcased the Chinese on Irving Street in the Sunset District, the third paid homage to the large Filipino community in the South of Market area, last year the fair returned to Japantown and this year the fair celebrated the large Vietnamese community in the city's Little Saigon neighborhood.
"I am very excited and proud that the Vietnamese community that the AsianWeek Foundation chose to host their event in Little Saigon This year. Everyone knows that there is a Chinatown and Japantown, but not many know about Little Saigon for the Vietnamese community," said Hang Le To, Program Director/The Founder of Au Co Cultural & Leadership Youth Team for the Au Co Vietnamese Cultural Center.
This year's sponsors include California Pacific Medical Center, Subaru, Brown and Toland Physicians, Comcast, Kaiser Permanente, Visa, AT&T, Pacific Gas & Electric Company, Golden Gate Disposal, San Francisco Chronicle, CBS 5/CW Bay Area, AsianWeek, Northern California Carpenters Regional Council, BART, and the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency.
About the Asian Heritage Street Celebration
The Asian Heritage Street Celebration is organized by the AsianWeek Foundation in cooperation with over 150 organizations in the local and Asian American community. It is the largest outdoor gathering of Asians in America and features arts and crafts vendors, two stages for live performances, carnival rides, import car shows, a kickboxing ring, Asian food vendors and more. This year's sponsors include California Pacific Medical Center, Subaru, Brown and Toland Medical Group, Comcast, Kaiser Permanente, Visa, AT&T, Pacific Gas & Electric Company, Golden Gate Disposal, San Francisco Chronicle, CBS 5/CW Bay Area, AsianWeek, Northern California Carpenters Regional Council, BART, and the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency. The AsianWeek Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)3 committed to developing Asian American community. All proceeds from the Celebration are donated to local and national charities.
AsianFairSF.com
Contact:
Angela Pang
AsianWeek Foundation
apang@asianweek.com
w: 415.321.5894
c: 650.703.9364
Asian Heritage Street Celebration Draws 100,000 Attendees
-Festival highlights pan Asian culture and heritage-
-Festival highlights pan Asian culture and heritage-
SAN FRANCISCO (May 19, 2009) - Approximately 100,000 people of all ages and races overflowed Larkin Street from McAllister to Ellis Streets to enjoy the sunshine and celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month in San Francisco on May 16.
The fifth annual Asian Heritage Street Celebration - the largest gathering of Asian Pacific Americans in the nation - featured a muay Thai kickboxing ring, delicious pan Asian cuisine, J-cars, tons of arts and crafts booths, Asian American musical artists, martial arts, a cultural procession, carnival rides and games, and more.Presented by California Pacific Medical Center and Subaru, the 5th Annual Asian Heritage Street Celebration took place in San Francisco's Civic Center in front of the Asian Art Museum, leading up to the Little Saigon District.
The city's three Asian American Supervisors Carmen Chu, Eric Mar, and President of the Board of Supervisors David Chiu, kicked off the street fair with warm wishes and greetings for fairgoers at the Asian Art Museum stage. Chiu told the crowd it was fitting that the nation's largest Asian street celebration took place in the city because San Francisco is "the heart of our country's Asian American community."
Proud San Francisco Unified School District Awards parents surrounded the Little Saigon Stage, in the early afternoon with camcorders and digital cameras to snap footage of their children during the fair's annual SFUSD Student Awards Ceremony. For excellence in nutrition and fitness, forty-nine students received glass plaques designed by Dave San Pedro and created by Art Crystal, Ltd. The ceremony was part of the annual SFUSD Student Awards Program that the AHSC has hosted annually to recognize the accomplishments of students who are of Asian Pacific Islander heritage in categories not typically celebrated.
Approximately 160 people took advantage of the free hepatitis B screenings presented by California Pacific Medical Center and the San Francisco Hep B Free campaign.
Assemblywoman Fiona Ma and ABC7 anchor Alan Wang spoke at the Asian Art Museum Stage about the importance of getting screened for hepatitis B. Asian Pacific Islanders have the highest rate of the disease compared to any ethnic group, and it is estimated that 1 in 10 people in the API community have an undiagnosed infection. Both Ma and Wang have chronic hepatitis B and were infected at birth. Wang wore a jade ribbon during his 5pm, 6pm and 11pm newscast that evening, showing his support of hepatitis B awareness and is one of the first Asian American newscasters nationwide to do so. In the late afternoon, the Asian Art Museum stage became a dance floor, as a crowd formed in front of the stage, bobbing their heads, swaying their hips and arms while jamming to the electric performance by Bay Area rapper Lyrics Born and wife Joyo Velarde.
"The crowd and event was fantastic!" exclaimed Lyrics Born, after his performance. "There aren't many Asians in the arts so it is important for others to see arts like myself out there performing to change that."
The AHSC, organized by the AsianWeek Foundation, is the only outdoor event in the Bay Area to rotate its location each year in order to showcase that APIs reside in all San Francisco neighborhoods. The first Celebration highlighted the Japanese community in Japantown, the second showcased the Chinese on Irving Street in the Sunset District, the third paid homage to the large Filipino community in the South of Market area, last year the fair returned to Japantown and this year the fair celebrated the large Vietnamese community in the city's Little Saigon neighborhood.
"I am very excited and proud that the Vietnamese community that the AsianWeek Foundation chose to host their event in Little Saigon This year. Everyone knows that there is a Chinatown and Japantown, but not many know about Little Saigon for the Vietnamese community," said Hang Le To, Program Director/The Founder of Au Co Cultural & Leadership Youth Team for the Au Co Vietnamese Cultural Center.
This year's sponsors include California Pacific Medical Center, Subaru, Brown and Toland Physicians, Comcast, Kaiser Permanente, Visa, AT&T, Pacific Gas & Electric Company, Golden Gate Disposal, San Francisco Chronicle, CBS 5/CW Bay Area, AsianWeek, Northern California Carpenters Regional Council, BART, and the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency.
###
About the Asian Heritage Street Celebration
The Asian Heritage Street Celebration is organized by the AsianWeek Foundation in cooperation with over 150 organizations in the local and Asian American community. It is the largest outdoor gathering of Asians in America and features arts and crafts vendors, two stages for live performances, carnival rides, import car shows, a kickboxing ring, Asian food vendors and more. This year's sponsors include California Pacific Medical Center, Subaru, Brown and Toland Medical Group, Comcast, Kaiser Permanente, Visa, AT&T, Pacific Gas & Electric Company, Golden Gate Disposal, San Francisco Chronicle, CBS 5/CW Bay Area, AsianWeek, Northern California Carpenters Regional Council, BART, and the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency. The AsianWeek Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)3 committed to developing Asian American community. All proceeds from the Celebration are donated to local and national charities.
AsianFairSF.com
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Press Release: "5TH ANNUAL ASIAN HERITAGE STREET CELEBRATION"
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Angela Pang
AsianWeek Foundation
apang@asianweek.com
650.703.9364
***MEDIA ALERT***
5TH ANNUAL ASIAN HERITAGE STREET CELEBRATION
Featuring J-Cars, Kickboxing Ring, Entertainment by Lyrics Born, Curt Yagi, Planet Infinity's Taekwondo Team & Charlie Chin& more
WHO: Critically acclaimed hip-hop artist Lyrics Born, singer/songwriter Curt Yagi, Planet Infinity's Taekwondo Team, classically-trained storyteller Charlie Chin, and San Francisco's World Team USA Muay Thai Kickboxing Team.
WHAT: The 5th Annual Asian American Heritage Street Celebration (AHSC) presented by California Pacific Medical Center and Subaru.
Performances and Exhibitions by:
· Lyrics Born, critically acclaimed hip-hop artist
· Curt Yagi, 2008's Best of the Bay Singer Songwriter
· Charlie Chin, musician, author, historian, and classically-trained storyteller
· Planet Infinity's Taekwondo Demo Team
· J-Cars
· San Francisco's World Team USA Muay Thai Kickboxing Team
Featuring free Hepatitis B screenings, free Asian Art Museum Tickets, an AHSC Best Dance Crew Contest and more.
WHERE: Civic Center (in front of Asian Art Museum, on Larkin and McAllister Streets) leading up to Little Saigon District, San Francisco, CA
WHEN: Saturday, May 16, 2009
11:00 AM - 6:00 PM
WHY: To promote and foster Asian Pacific American identity by bringing together community and encouraging the sharing of differences and appreciation of diversity. To pay homage to the San Francisco Vietnamese community.
ASIAN HERITAGE STREET CELEBRATION PHOTO HIGHLIGHTS
ALL DAY EVENTS
Muay Thai Kickboxing
12:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Turk and Larkin Streets
JCars
11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Polk and Golden Gate Streets
Hepatitis B Screenings
11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
McAllister at Larkin Street
Photo Op:
ABC 7 Reporter Alan Wang
1:00 PM to 2:00 PM
LITTLE SAIGON STAGE at Ellis and Larkin Streets
(Times Subject to Change)
11:00:00 AM Miss National Asia Pageant
11:05:00 AM Citizen School Tinikling Performance
11:15:00 AM Pushin' The Bay - Emcee T, Mac Mall and Ray Luv
11:25:00 AM Mark Munoz UFC Fighter Filipino Wrecking Machine
11:30:00 AM Planet Infinity's More Than Medals Taekwando Team
11:50:00 AM UBI
12:00:00 PM Indonesian Consulate Dance Performance
12:10:00 PM Charlie Chin
12:45:00 PM Argonne Elementary School Dance Performance
1:00:00 PM School Award Presentation
1:30:00 PM Faces of Asia Procession Presentation
1:40:00 PM Nguyen Dance Company
2:00:00 PM Downe-FX
2:10:00 PM LIKHA - Pilipino Folk Ensemble
2:20:00 PM Go Bigg
2:30:00 PM AHSC's Best Dance Crew - Contest hosted by WILD949
3:30:00 PM Animemyu plus CosPlay
4:00:00 PM US Wing Chun
4:30:00 PM Karaoke Contest
5:30:00 PM Kickboxing Demomonstration
Asian Art Museun Stage at Fulton and Larkin Streets
(Times Subject to Change)
11:00:00 AM San Francisco Supervisors
11:05:00 AM Chung Ngai Dance Troupe
11:20:00 AM Amber Field
11:30:00 AM Rendezvous
12:00:00 PM Kaz-well
12:15:00 PM KAPAKAHI
12:45:00 PM Mango Kingz
1:15:00 PM Miles Outside
1:45:00 PM Curt Yago
2:00:00 PM REN THE VINYL ARCHAEOLOGIST
2:15:00 PM Native Elements
2:45:00 PM Lyrics Born with Joyo Velarde
3:30:00 PM Thomas' Aparttment
4:00:00 PM The Campaign
4:20:00 PM Enoch
4:30:00 PM Drunken Hu?
5:00:00 PM Random Ninjas
+ Resident DJs Tone Def & Jay Plus, Greetings from Elected Officials, Raffle Prizes and More!
To RSVP for this event, please reply to Angela Pang at apang@asianweek.com or (650)703-9364
About the Asian Heritage Street Celebration
The Asian Heritage Street Celebration is organized by the AsianWeek Foundation in cooperation with over 150 organizations in the local and Asian American community. It is the largest outdoor gathering of Asians in America and features arts and crafts vendors, two stages for live performances, carnival rides, import car show, kickboxing ring, Asian food vendors and more. This year's sponsors include California Pacific Medical Center, Subaru, Brown and Toland Medical Group, Comcast, Kaiser Permanente, Visa, AT&T, Pacific Gas & Electric Company, Golden Gate Disposal, San Francisco Chronicle, CBS 5/CW Bay Area, AsianWeek, Northern California Carpenters Union, BART, and the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency.
The AsianWeek Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)3 committed to developing Asian American community. All proceeds from the Celebration are donated to local and national charities.
www.asianfairsf.com
Contact:
Angela Pang
AsianWeek Foundation
apang@asianweek.com
650.703.9364
***MEDIA ALERT***
5TH ANNUAL ASIAN HERITAGE STREET CELEBRATION
-Largest APA Heritage Month Celebration Nationwide this Saturday May 16-
Featuring J-Cars, Kickboxing Ring, Entertainment by Lyrics Born, Curt Yagi, Planet Infinity's Taekwondo Team & Charlie Chin& more
WHO: Critically acclaimed hip-hop artist Lyrics Born, singer/songwriter Curt Yagi, Planet Infinity's Taekwondo Team, classically-trained storyteller Charlie Chin, and San Francisco's World Team USA Muay Thai Kickboxing Team.
WHAT: The 5th Annual Asian American Heritage Street Celebration (AHSC) presented by California Pacific Medical Center and Subaru.
Performances and Exhibitions by:
· Lyrics Born, critically acclaimed hip-hop artist
· Curt Yagi, 2008's Best of the Bay Singer Songwriter
· Charlie Chin, musician, author, historian, and classically-trained storyteller
· Planet Infinity's Taekwondo Demo Team
· J-Cars
· San Francisco's World Team USA Muay Thai Kickboxing Team
· SFUSD Students Awards Program
Featuring free Hepatitis B screenings, free Asian Art Museum Tickets, an AHSC Best Dance Crew Contest and more.
WHERE: Civic Center (in front of Asian Art Museum, on Larkin and McAllister Streets) leading up to Little Saigon District, San Francisco, CA
WHEN: Saturday, May 16, 2009
11:00 AM - 6:00 PM
WHY: To promote and foster Asian Pacific American identity by bringing together community and encouraging the sharing of differences and appreciation of diversity. To pay homage to the San Francisco Vietnamese community.
ASIAN HERITAGE STREET CELEBRATION PHOTO HIGHLIGHTS
ALL DAY EVENTS
Muay Thai Kickboxing
12:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Turk and Larkin Streets
JCars
11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Polk and Golden Gate Streets
Hepatitis B Screenings
11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
McAllister at Larkin Street
Photo Op:
ABC 7 Reporter Alan Wang
1:00 PM to 2:00 PM
LITTLE SAIGON STAGE at Ellis and Larkin Streets
(Times Subject to Change)
11:00:00 AM Miss National Asia Pageant
11:05:00 AM Citizen School Tinikling Performance
11:15:00 AM Pushin' The Bay - Emcee T, Mac Mall and Ray Luv
11:25:00 AM Mark Munoz UFC Fighter Filipino Wrecking Machine
11:30:00 AM Planet Infinity's More Than Medals Taekwando Team
11:50:00 AM UBI
12:00:00 PM Indonesian Consulate Dance Performance
12:10:00 PM Charlie Chin
12:45:00 PM Argonne Elementary School Dance Performance
1:00:00 PM School Award Presentation
1:30:00 PM Faces of Asia Procession Presentation
1:40:00 PM Nguyen Dance Company
2:00:00 PM Downe-FX
2:10:00 PM LIKHA - Pilipino Folk Ensemble
2:20:00 PM Go Bigg
2:30:00 PM AHSC's Best Dance Crew - Contest hosted by WILD949
3:30:00 PM Animemyu plus CosPlay
4:00:00 PM US Wing Chun
4:30:00 PM Karaoke Contest
5:30:00 PM Kickboxing Demomonstration
Asian Art Museun Stage at Fulton and Larkin Streets
(Times Subject to Change)
11:00:00 AM San Francisco Supervisors
11:05:00 AM Chung Ngai Dance Troupe
11:20:00 AM Amber Field
11:30:00 AM Rendezvous
12:00:00 PM Kaz-well
12:15:00 PM KAPAKAHI
12:45:00 PM Mango Kingz
1:15:00 PM Miles Outside
1:45:00 PM Curt Yago
2:00:00 PM REN THE VINYL ARCHAEOLOGIST
2:15:00 PM Native Elements
2:45:00 PM Lyrics Born with Joyo Velarde
3:30:00 PM Thomas' Aparttment
4:00:00 PM The Campaign
4:20:00 PM Enoch
4:30:00 PM Drunken Hu?
5:00:00 PM Random Ninjas
+ Resident DJs Tone Def & Jay Plus, Greetings from Elected Officials, Raffle Prizes and More!
To RSVP for this event, please reply to Angela Pang at apang@asianweek.com or (650)703-9364
###
About the Asian Heritage Street Celebration
The Asian Heritage Street Celebration is organized by the AsianWeek Foundation in cooperation with over 150 organizations in the local and Asian American community. It is the largest outdoor gathering of Asians in America and features arts and crafts vendors, two stages for live performances, carnival rides, import car show, kickboxing ring, Asian food vendors and more. This year's sponsors include California Pacific Medical Center, Subaru, Brown and Toland Medical Group, Comcast, Kaiser Permanente, Visa, AT&T, Pacific Gas & Electric Company, Golden Gate Disposal, San Francisco Chronicle, CBS 5/CW Bay Area, AsianWeek, Northern California Carpenters Union, BART, and the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency.
The AsianWeek Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)3 committed to developing Asian American community. All proceeds from the Celebration are donated to local and national charities.
www.asianfairsf.com
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