APAICS Gala Dinner


The Asian Pacific American Institute for Congressional Studies started off it’s 8th Annual Leadership Academy for Elected Officials last night at the JW Marriott Hotel. A working partner of the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC), this group certainly takes pride in its heritage and traditions. It was fun to see so many in native dress last night!

I met such notables as Senator Akaka from Hawaii, Congressman Honda from California, former Secretary of Transportation Norman Mineta, and the Honoree of the evening, Secretary of Labor Elaine Chao.

I was delighted to have the chance to sit and get to know more about some of the Academy members including Mr. Ken Chew, city Councilmember for the town of Moraga, California; Mr. Andrew Luzod, Mayor of the City of Melvindale, Michigan; and Mr. Michael Park, Mayor of the City of Federal Way, Washington – all seated at a table with me!