Raw .srt transcript file as collected from the source layer.
1 00:00:01,869 --> 00:00:10,310 ♪♪ 2 00:00:10,310 --> 00:00:14,715 ♪♪ 3 00:00:15,349 --> 00:00:16,583 -Good morning, everybody. 4 00:00:16,583 --> 00:00:18,852 I'm really excited here to share some great news 5 00:00:18,852 --> 00:00:20,654 that we're trying to do here. 6 00:00:20,654 --> 00:00:23,423 I have a superstar of speakers in back of me, 7 00:00:23,423 --> 00:00:24,791 so I'm actually going to be brief. 8 00:00:24,791 --> 00:00:26,093 I'm just going to sort of give the parameters 9 00:00:26,093 --> 00:00:27,127 of what we're announcing. 10 00:00:27,127 --> 00:00:28,996 And I have a lot of thank yous, 11 00:00:28,996 --> 00:00:32,165 but I'll thank these speakers after they speak. 12 00:00:34,735 --> 00:00:38,539 I've already forewarned Gary Locke that he is the closer, 13 00:00:38,539 --> 00:00:41,508 like we close -- like the Mariners closed last night. 14 00:00:41,508 --> 00:00:43,577 He's the closer. 15 00:00:43,577 --> 00:00:45,012 So you've got to -- you've got to win the game for us, Gary. 16 00:00:47,447 --> 00:00:49,783 The most important concept of what we're trying 17 00:00:49,783 --> 00:00:53,020 to do in making sure this community here, 18 00:00:53,020 --> 00:00:55,088 the Chinatown International District, 19 00:00:55,088 --> 00:01:00,093 elders and family and friends around here at any block here, 20 00:01:00,093 --> 00:01:04,498 any restaurant, any business and feel safe and be safe. 21 00:01:04,498 --> 00:01:06,967 And this exciting investment, 22 00:01:06,967 --> 00:01:08,936 a million dollar investment from the city, 23 00:01:08,936 --> 00:01:12,172 the Asian-American Foundation known as TAAF, 24 00:01:12,172 --> 00:01:14,775 Amazon is designed to do that, 25 00:01:14,775 --> 00:01:17,044 to help our businesses, 26 00:01:17,044 --> 00:01:20,814 these blocks that we walk and treasure for decades and decades 27 00:01:20,814 --> 00:01:24,484 and the lives here be safe in Chinatown, Japantown, 28 00:01:24,484 --> 00:01:26,420 and Little Saigon. 29 00:01:26,420 --> 00:01:30,591 Now, we know for too long that we've had conditions 30 00:01:30,591 --> 00:01:32,492 that are intolerable. 31 00:01:32,492 --> 00:01:35,762 People are struggling with health issues, addictions. 32 00:01:35,762 --> 00:01:38,131 There's been public safety issues. 33 00:01:38,131 --> 00:01:40,067 And we're trying and trying and trying, 34 00:01:40,067 --> 00:01:42,402 and we keep pushing that boulder up a hill. 35 00:01:42,402 --> 00:01:44,271 And we think we're making considerable progress 36 00:01:44,271 --> 00:01:46,306 when you look at the data. 37 00:01:46,306 --> 00:01:50,444 Their program, it has a simple but very important mission, 38 00:01:50,444 --> 00:01:53,180 to provide regular, visible, 39 00:01:53,180 --> 00:01:55,849 and reliable support to the neighborhood; 40 00:01:55,849 --> 00:01:58,185 to activate it through these fine people 41 00:01:58,185 --> 00:02:01,989 that believe in protecting and saving lives and helping people. 42 00:02:01,989 --> 00:02:04,291 And sometimes it could be as easy 43 00:02:04,291 --> 00:02:07,628 as giving some fine human beings 44 00:02:07,628 --> 00:02:10,597 that are capable of doing this work. 45 00:02:10,597 --> 00:02:12,499 And I want to thank you for coming this morning. 46 00:02:12,499 --> 00:02:14,234 Let's give them a hand right now. 47 00:02:19,039 --> 00:02:21,842 This program is modeled after other 48 00:02:21,842 --> 00:02:23,544 successful Ambassador Programs 49 00:02:23,544 --> 00:02:25,746 that we partner with like we're doing with 50 00:02:25,746 --> 00:02:27,781 the downtown Seattle Association, 51 00:02:27,781 --> 00:02:30,517 the MID ambassadors, the Ballard Alliance. 52 00:02:30,517 --> 00:02:32,319 These on-the-ground teams will serve 53 00:02:32,319 --> 00:02:34,655 as safety partners and neighborhood stewards. 54 00:02:34,655 --> 00:02:37,257 Again, they'll help connect people to services. 55 00:02:37,257 --> 00:02:39,293 You want to come and get a close-up shot. 56 00:02:39,293 --> 00:02:40,727 This is -- this is the better side over here, by the way. 57 00:02:40,727 --> 00:02:42,229 I'm just messing with you. 58 00:02:42,229 --> 00:02:43,964 They'll support tourists 59 00:02:43,964 --> 00:02:45,599 and local residents navigating the district. 60 00:02:45,599 --> 00:02:47,367 They'll build relationships 61 00:02:47,367 --> 00:02:49,736 and provide assistance to business owners. 62 00:02:49,736 --> 00:02:52,339 They'll emphasize enough 63 00:02:52,339 --> 00:02:55,108 that a strong partnership with the county 64 00:02:55,108 --> 00:02:58,612 that runs the health system is needed in this kind of work. 65 00:02:58,612 --> 00:03:02,516 A lot of these people are sick. They need to be treated. 66 00:03:02,516 --> 00:03:04,084 They need services. 67 00:03:04,084 --> 00:03:06,587 And so I wanted to impress upon you 68 00:03:06,587 --> 00:03:09,423 that our partnership with the county that runs that system, 69 00:03:09,423 --> 00:03:11,225 the only thing we're doing, of course, 70 00:03:11,225 --> 00:03:13,160 this is one piece of the puzzle; 71 00:03:13,160 --> 00:03:14,962 and it builds on a lot of work 72 00:03:14,962 --> 00:03:16,897 we're continuing to do through the district. 73 00:03:16,897 --> 00:03:20,000 You know that our investments are helping improve 74 00:03:20,000 --> 00:03:22,302 the built environment through graffiti removal, 75 00:03:22,302 --> 00:03:24,738 art and better lighting here -- and here, for example, 76 00:03:24,738 --> 00:03:26,907 in Hing Hay Park and King Street, 77 00:03:26,907 --> 00:03:28,642 we're expanding affordable housing 78 00:03:28,642 --> 00:03:30,511 and strengthening small business support 79 00:03:30,511 --> 00:03:32,646 and supporting more neighborhood activation. 80 00:03:32,646 --> 00:03:35,115 You've heard me use that term a lot since I've been mayor, 81 00:03:35,115 --> 00:03:37,184 activation, because, at the end of the day, 82 00:03:37,184 --> 00:03:40,254 we want areas to be vibrant and active 83 00:03:40,254 --> 00:03:43,023 with the right kinds of activity. 84 00:03:43,023 --> 00:03:44,658 We're supporting community driven efforts 85 00:03:44,658 --> 00:03:47,494 like the CID visioning group 86 00:03:47,494 --> 00:03:51,031 and the full depth initiative led by Friends of Little Saigon. 87 00:03:51,031 --> 00:03:52,766 They're doing amazing work. 88 00:03:52,766 --> 00:03:54,535 We've doubled down on addressing the public safety 89 00:03:54,535 --> 00:03:58,138 and economic challenges facing Little Saigon. 90 00:03:58,138 --> 00:03:59,873 You see it. 91 00:03:59,873 --> 00:04:01,842 You see the work we're doing since November 20 -- 92 00:04:01,842 --> 00:04:04,578 since November 1, 2024, 93 00:04:04,578 --> 00:04:07,347 our downtown activation team has completed three 94 00:04:07,347 --> 00:04:10,884 scheduled restoration actions, 95 00:04:10,884 --> 00:04:16,456 three completed scheduled restoration actions every day 96 00:04:16,456 --> 00:04:18,492 in the Little Saigon neighborhood. 97 00:04:18,492 --> 00:04:21,195 We're putting our resources where we believe our values are, 98 00:04:21,195 --> 00:04:25,766 which is to keep this community safe. 99 00:04:25,766 --> 00:04:27,534 But, once again, change and progress 100 00:04:27,534 --> 00:04:30,237 doesn't come alone in City Hall. 101 00:04:30,237 --> 00:04:33,173 My style of leadership is one that is collaborative; 102 00:04:33,173 --> 00:04:36,210 and I look for great partners, great teams. 103 00:04:36,210 --> 00:04:39,146 The public sector, the private sector, our BIA, 104 00:04:39,146 --> 00:04:42,649 the businesses, advocates, you, community members and leaders 105 00:04:42,649 --> 00:04:46,386 working together toward a shared vision. 106 00:04:46,386 --> 00:04:49,790 And that is a great segue into listening to our next speaker. 107 00:04:49,790 --> 00:04:52,059 I'd like to introduce Georgette Bhathena, 108 00:04:52,059 --> 00:04:55,796 the chief programs officer at the Asian-American Foundation. 109 00:04:55,796 --> 00:05:00,634 And we're so excited to partner with T-A-A-F, 110 00:05:00,634 --> 00:05:02,870 TAFF -- am I saying it right? 111 00:05:02,870 --> 00:05:06,340 Okay -- TAFF on this exciting work. 112 00:05:06,340 --> 00:05:09,910 And Georgette will be sharing a very special announcement about 113 00:05:09,910 --> 00:05:12,079 how TAAF, along with their partners, 114 00:05:12,079 --> 00:05:14,882 are investing right here in Seattle to advance safety 115 00:05:14,882 --> 00:05:18,018 and economic prosperity for the AAPI community. 116 00:05:18,018 --> 00:05:19,820 We are very blessed 117 00:05:19,820 --> 00:05:21,121 and fortunate to have Georgette's leadership 118 00:05:21,121 --> 00:05:23,090 and her organization. 119 00:05:23,090 --> 00:05:25,659 And, Georgette, I'm going to leave all this stuff up here 120 00:05:25,659 --> 00:05:27,361 because I'm sort of the MC. 121 00:05:27,361 --> 00:05:28,962 I hope it doesn't mess you up a little bit. 122 00:05:28,962 --> 00:05:30,597 Let's give Georgette a hand. 123 00:05:40,407 --> 00:05:42,242 -Great. Good morning, everyone. 124 00:05:42,242 --> 00:05:44,378 It's a pleasure to be here with you today. 125 00:05:44,378 --> 00:05:48,182 So I'm Georgette Bhathena, the chief programs officer at TAAF. 126 00:05:48,182 --> 00:05:50,417 And TAAF was launched in 2021 127 00:05:50,417 --> 00:05:53,220 in response to the rise of anti-Asian hate 128 00:05:53,220 --> 00:05:55,789 and to address the long-standing underinvestment 129 00:05:55,789 --> 00:05:57,724 in our communities. 130 00:05:57,724 --> 00:06:00,294 Our mission is to promote safety, foster belonging, 131 00:06:00,294 --> 00:06:03,830 and advance prosperity for our AANHPI communities 132 00:06:03,830 --> 00:06:05,399 across the country. 133 00:06:05,399 --> 00:06:06,800 The Chinatown International District 134 00:06:06,800 --> 00:06:08,869 has always felt like home to me. 135 00:06:08,869 --> 00:06:10,938 I was born and raised in South Seattle 136 00:06:10,938 --> 00:06:13,974 and spent a lot of time in the CID growing up. 137 00:06:13,974 --> 00:06:15,676 And, during college, 138 00:06:15,676 --> 00:06:17,277 I was a docent at the Wing Luke Asian Museum. 139 00:06:17,277 --> 00:06:18,979 And I served as a student consultant 140 00:06:18,979 --> 00:06:20,848 to the Northwest Asian-American Theater, 141 00:06:20,848 --> 00:06:23,317 as well as the CID BIA 142 00:06:23,317 --> 00:06:25,352 while at the University of Washington's 143 00:06:25,352 --> 00:06:26,587 Foster School of Business. 144 00:06:26,587 --> 00:06:28,555 Go Huskies. 145 00:06:28,555 --> 00:06:31,692 So I'm very excited about the CID Ambassadors Program 146 00:06:31,692 --> 00:06:33,694 on a personal level. 147 00:06:33,694 --> 00:06:36,697 This program marks the launch of TAAF Cities Initiative 148 00:06:36,697 --> 00:06:39,800 and is aimed at catalyzing cross-sector collaboration 149 00:06:39,800 --> 00:06:43,103 to support Seattle's AANHPI communities. 150 00:06:43,103 --> 00:06:45,572 And we're also honored to have the support of Amazon 151 00:06:45,572 --> 00:06:49,209 as well as Bank of America join us as founding partners. 152 00:06:49,209 --> 00:06:52,279 TAAF Cities is focused on driving place-based change. 153 00:06:52,279 --> 00:06:54,181 So, while we're a national organization, 154 00:06:54,181 --> 00:06:56,683 we know that a lot of important change and investment 155 00:06:56,683 --> 00:06:59,186 is needed and required at a local level. 156 00:06:59,186 --> 00:07:02,322 And we do that by working hand in hand with local leaders 157 00:07:02,322 --> 00:07:04,258 because, across the country, 158 00:07:04,258 --> 00:07:07,194 AANHPI communities are shaping the future of cities. 159 00:07:07,194 --> 00:07:08,896 But too often they're expected to do it 160 00:07:08,896 --> 00:07:10,531 without real investment. 161 00:07:10,531 --> 00:07:12,599 So, to address this challenge, 162 00:07:12,599 --> 00:07:15,335 TAAF is supporting coalitions like this one across sectors, 163 00:07:15,335 --> 00:07:17,671 government, business, and community. 164 00:07:17,671 --> 00:07:20,774 And Seattle was chosen as a pilot city in this initiative 165 00:07:20,774 --> 00:07:23,043 because of its history as a major cultural 166 00:07:23,043 --> 00:07:28,048 and economic hub with a strong and vibrant AANHPI community. 167 00:07:28,048 --> 00:07:30,250 So we're coming together to invest in neighborhoods 168 00:07:30,250 --> 00:07:32,186 like the CID, 169 00:07:32,186 --> 00:07:35,122 not as problems to fix but foundations to build upon. 170 00:07:35,122 --> 00:07:38,258 And how do we do this? So, to begin with, 171 00:07:38,258 --> 00:07:40,227 we can't talk about community investment 172 00:07:40,227 --> 00:07:42,296 without talking about the importance of safety. 173 00:07:42,296 --> 00:07:43,864 Through our partners, 174 00:07:43,864 --> 00:07:45,732 we have learned about the urgency 175 00:07:45,732 --> 00:07:48,702 and the need to develop solutions to prioritize safety, 176 00:07:48,702 --> 00:07:51,839 and we admire the work that's already being done here 177 00:07:51,839 --> 00:07:53,574 by community based organizations 178 00:07:53,574 --> 00:07:55,909 like the Chinese Information and Service Center, 179 00:07:55,909 --> 00:07:58,445 CISC -- and I see Michael in the audience -- 180 00:07:58,445 --> 00:08:00,881 a leading organization responding to hate incidents 181 00:08:00,881 --> 00:08:02,816 and also a partner who has been leading the way 182 00:08:02,816 --> 00:08:05,819 in providing services to our immigrant communities. 183 00:08:05,819 --> 00:08:09,022 And we released our Seattle safety study last fall 184 00:08:09,022 --> 00:08:12,159 to help identify gaps in public safety, 185 00:08:12,159 --> 00:08:14,127 areas for investment in city infrastructure, 186 00:08:14,127 --> 00:08:16,597 and also community resources 187 00:08:16,597 --> 00:08:21,602 that would help the city become safer for the AANHPI community. 188 00:08:21,602 --> 00:08:24,071 There are two statistics that I want to share briefly. 189 00:08:24,071 --> 00:08:26,006 So, according to the study, 190 00:08:26,006 --> 00:08:29,476 54% of AANHPIs in the city said that public safety is 191 00:08:29,476 --> 00:08:32,312 either a major problem or somewhat of a problem 192 00:08:32,312 --> 00:08:33,814 that needed to be addressed. 193 00:08:33,814 --> 00:08:35,482 Sadly, the study also showed 194 00:08:35,482 --> 00:08:38,452 that nearly 1 in 3 AANHPIs in Seattle 195 00:08:38,452 --> 00:08:40,821 said they personally feared being attacked. 196 00:08:40,821 --> 00:08:42,890 So, with the CID Ambassadors Program, 197 00:08:42,890 --> 00:08:44,791 we're supporting a community based solution 198 00:08:44,791 --> 00:08:46,493 to address these problems. 199 00:08:46,493 --> 00:08:48,896 The CID Ambassadors will walk 200 00:08:48,896 --> 00:08:51,064 and watch over neighborhood blocks to ensure 201 00:08:51,064 --> 00:08:53,567 that they are safer, cleaner, and cared for. 202 00:08:53,567 --> 00:08:55,335 So we believe that, 203 00:08:55,335 --> 00:08:57,304 working together with coalitions like this one, 204 00:08:57,304 --> 00:08:59,173 we can strengthen neighborhoods, 205 00:08:59,173 --> 00:09:01,642 we can empower small businesses, and we can build cities 206 00:09:01,642 --> 00:09:03,210 where everyone belongs. 207 00:09:03,210 --> 00:09:09,249 Thank you. -Thank you, Georgette. 208 00:09:09,249 --> 00:09:11,518 In order -- in order to give a good speech, 209 00:09:11,518 --> 00:09:15,556 sometimes it's necessary to steal things. 210 00:09:15,556 --> 00:09:17,591 And what I loved what Georgette said 211 00:09:17,591 --> 00:09:21,828 was this is not perceived as a problem to fix 212 00:09:21,828 --> 00:09:24,464 but a foundation to build upon. 213 00:09:24,464 --> 00:09:26,099 I'll be stealing that in another speech, 214 00:09:26,099 --> 00:09:27,835 so I'm just giving you forewarning. 215 00:09:27,835 --> 00:09:29,736 That is exactly how we are approaching this. 216 00:09:29,736 --> 00:09:32,039 So next we're going to hear from who you know, 217 00:09:32,039 --> 00:09:36,310 Taylor Wong, Senior Manager of Community Engagement in Amazon, 218 00:09:36,310 --> 00:09:38,145 to bring some brief remarks. 219 00:09:38,145 --> 00:09:40,581 But I want to thank Taylor for a strong commitment 220 00:09:40,581 --> 00:09:42,516 to our community here 221 00:09:42,516 --> 00:09:44,151 and to the city of Seattle through Amazon's efforts. 222 00:09:44,151 --> 00:09:45,886 And we are very fortunate 223 00:09:45,886 --> 00:09:47,454 that we have her at that position at Amazon. 224 00:09:47,454 --> 00:09:49,323 So, Taylor, take it away. 225 00:09:52,893 --> 00:09:54,761 -Thank you, Mayor. 226 00:09:54,761 --> 00:09:57,431 I can't tell you how deeply moved 227 00:09:57,431 --> 00:09:59,766 and excited I am to be here today 228 00:09:59,766 --> 00:10:02,870 as we announce the CID Ambassador Program. 229 00:10:02,870 --> 00:10:06,473 This neighborhood holds a very special place in my heart. 230 00:10:06,473 --> 00:10:08,809 It's where my parents have their business, 231 00:10:08,809 --> 00:10:10,844 where I grew up, 232 00:10:10,844 --> 00:10:14,281 and where I've spent countless hours working with many of you, 233 00:10:14,281 --> 00:10:15,916 our partners in the community, 234 00:10:15,916 --> 00:10:17,417 to make this a safe and vibrant -- 235 00:10:17,417 --> 00:10:19,486 the Chinatown International 236 00:10:19,486 --> 00:10:22,222 District Business Improvement Area, Friends of Little Saigon 237 00:10:22,222 --> 00:10:25,192 and many more partners in this coordinated 238 00:10:25,192 --> 00:10:30,030 $1 million investment. Last September, 239 00:10:30,030 --> 00:10:33,166 Amazon was honored to help bring back the night market, 240 00:10:33,166 --> 00:10:37,104 and we're excited to return this fall. 241 00:10:37,104 --> 00:10:40,507 Our commitment, our $250,000 commitment, 242 00:10:40,507 --> 00:10:42,809 contribution to Friends of Little Saigon, 243 00:10:42,809 --> 00:10:46,747 in addition to what TAAF and the mayor has already announced, 244 00:10:46,747 --> 00:10:49,216 will help further demonstrate our commitment 245 00:10:49,216 --> 00:10:52,186 to supporting economic development and public safety 246 00:10:52,186 --> 00:10:54,154 in this neighborhood. 247 00:10:54,154 --> 00:10:57,090 This public-private partnership shows that we can achieve 248 00:10:57,090 --> 00:10:59,059 when government, business, 249 00:10:59,059 --> 00:11:03,030 and community organizations work with shared purpose. 250 00:11:03,030 --> 00:11:06,533 As someone who has witnessed this neighborhood's challenges, 251 00:11:06,533 --> 00:11:10,137 triumphs firsthand, I'm grateful for Amazon 252 00:11:10,137 --> 00:11:13,540 and their continued support and excitement 253 00:11:13,540 --> 00:11:15,542 that we will bring to this neighborhood. 254 00:11:15,542 --> 00:11:18,345 So thank you to all the partners and Mayor. 255 00:11:18,345 --> 00:11:20,981 -Thank you, Taylor. 256 00:11:20,981 --> 00:11:22,916 -Thank you, Taylor. 257 00:11:22,916 --> 00:11:25,752 Next, I'd like to invite Tuyen Than, 258 00:11:25,752 --> 00:11:29,523 the new executive director for the CID BIA, to bring remarks. 259 00:11:29,523 --> 00:11:31,458 And, you know, a couple of weeks ago, 260 00:11:31,458 --> 00:11:32,726 Tuyen and I and others 261 00:11:32,726 --> 00:11:34,628 announced the launch 262 00:11:34,628 --> 00:11:37,164 of the Comcast RISE Small Business Grant Program. 263 00:11:37,164 --> 00:11:38,765 And that was indeed exciting, 264 00:11:38,765 --> 00:11:40,534 and she has hit the ground running. 265 00:11:40,534 --> 00:11:43,136 I'm very excited to reintroduce to most of you 266 00:11:43,136 --> 00:11:44,905 because you already know her Tuyen. 267 00:11:44,905 --> 00:11:46,173 Please take it away. 268 00:11:48,609 --> 00:11:52,579 -Hello, hello, hello. Good morning, everybody. 269 00:11:52,579 --> 00:11:54,748 It might be a long one, but we -- 270 00:11:54,748 --> 00:11:56,884 as you can see, we all have our pieces of paper 271 00:11:56,884 --> 00:11:58,785 that we're going to read from. 272 00:11:58,785 --> 00:12:01,188 So thank you for -- all for being here today. 273 00:12:01,188 --> 00:12:06,593 I want to share a moment that stuck with me. 274 00:12:06,593 --> 00:12:08,362 A few months ago, 275 00:12:08,362 --> 00:12:10,230 a small business owner in the CID told me, 276 00:12:10,230 --> 00:12:13,400 I just want to feel like someone has our back. 277 00:12:13,400 --> 00:12:15,302 And that stuck with me 278 00:12:15,302 --> 00:12:16,837 because it captured what so many in our community 279 00:12:16,837 --> 00:12:18,672 have been feeling for years: 280 00:12:18,672 --> 00:12:22,876 unseen, unheard, and left to fend for ourselves. 281 00:12:22,876 --> 00:12:25,812 Getting to this point took a tremendous amount of work. 282 00:12:25,812 --> 00:12:28,815 It took long meetings, a lot of them; 283 00:12:28,815 --> 00:12:33,020 difficult conversations; and people who refused to give up. 284 00:12:33,020 --> 00:12:36,290 So I want to thank Natalie, the CID BIA team, 285 00:12:36,290 --> 00:12:39,026 Jeff Liang, TAAF, the City of Seattle, 286 00:12:39,026 --> 00:12:40,894 Office of Economic Development, 287 00:12:40,894 --> 00:12:44,598 and all the other -- and Amazon, Bank of America, 288 00:12:44,598 --> 00:12:46,200 and all the other hands and hearts 289 00:12:46,200 --> 00:12:47,901 who helped make this possible. 290 00:12:47,901 --> 00:12:49,603 Today is a turning point. 291 00:12:49,603 --> 00:12:51,205 The launch of the Safety Ambassadors 292 00:12:51,205 --> 00:12:52,906 isn't just about visibility. 293 00:12:52,906 --> 00:12:55,976 It's about trust, presence, and hope. 294 00:12:55,976 --> 00:12:57,945 This is what the community asked for, 295 00:12:57,945 --> 00:13:00,080 and it's a step toward reclaiming our streets 296 00:13:00,080 --> 00:13:02,082 with dignity and care. 297 00:13:02,082 --> 00:13:05,586 We still have a lot of work ahead, but this moment matters. 298 00:13:05,586 --> 00:13:08,856 And it's a reminder that when we listen, invest, and show up, 299 00:13:08,856 --> 00:13:12,159 we can move toward the kind of neighborhood we all deserve. 300 00:13:12,159 --> 00:13:19,900 Thank you. -Thank you, Tuyen. 301 00:13:19,900 --> 00:13:22,469 Before I introduce our next speaker, 302 00:13:22,469 --> 00:13:24,738 I'd like to just recognize 303 00:13:24,738 --> 00:13:26,740 that former council member Tanya Wu is here. 304 00:13:26,740 --> 00:13:28,575 Thank you for being here. 305 00:13:28,575 --> 00:13:30,911 And former council member David Della is here. 306 00:13:30,911 --> 00:13:32,479 Once a community public servant, 307 00:13:32,479 --> 00:13:34,248 always a community public servant. 308 00:13:34,248 --> 00:13:35,716 And we know how much you love this community. 309 00:13:35,716 --> 00:13:38,252 Thank you. Let's see here. 310 00:13:38,252 --> 00:13:41,488 Going down the list of superstars, 311 00:13:41,488 --> 00:13:44,291 another critical partner, Quynh Pham. 312 00:13:44,291 --> 00:13:46,460 Many of you know Quynh, Executive Director, 313 00:13:46,460 --> 00:13:47,861 Friends of Little Saigon. 314 00:13:47,861 --> 00:13:49,129 And we want to recognize 315 00:13:49,129 --> 00:13:50,898 the outstanding leadership Quynh is shown. 316 00:13:50,898 --> 00:13:53,333 And, Quynh, please bring us some remarks. 317 00:13:58,238 --> 00:14:00,807 -Hi, everyone. Good morning. Are you still awake? 318 00:14:00,807 --> 00:14:04,511 Yeah. Hi. My name is Quynh Pham. 319 00:14:04,511 --> 00:14:07,414 I am the Executive Director of the Friends of Little Saigon. 320 00:14:07,414 --> 00:14:10,250 We're a place-based community development organization 321 00:14:10,250 --> 00:14:12,920 dedicated to preserving and enhancing the cultural, 322 00:14:12,920 --> 00:14:16,557 economic, and historic vitality of Little Saigon. 323 00:14:16,557 --> 00:14:18,025 Over the past year, 324 00:14:18,025 --> 00:14:20,027 Friends of Little Saigon 325 00:14:20,027 --> 00:14:22,696 has engaged more than 100 stakeholders in conversations 326 00:14:22,696 --> 00:14:26,033 about community safety, identifying our challenges 327 00:14:26,033 --> 00:14:29,002 and working together on potential solutions. 328 00:14:29,002 --> 00:14:32,439 This collective effort has led to the launch of the Pho Dep, 329 00:14:32,439 --> 00:14:34,675 Beautiful Neighborhood initiative. 330 00:14:34,675 --> 00:14:37,644 Through it, we developed a comprehensive safety plan, 331 00:14:37,644 --> 00:14:39,746 formed a community coalition, 332 00:14:39,746 --> 00:14:41,582 and secured financial investments, 333 00:14:41,582 --> 00:14:43,450 not just for Little Saigon but 334 00:14:43,450 --> 00:14:46,253 for the Chinatown International District as a whole. 335 00:14:46,253 --> 00:14:48,856 This initiative has fostered true, 336 00:14:48,856 --> 00:14:51,458 meaningful collaborations and partnerships, 337 00:14:51,458 --> 00:14:53,460 strengthened trust, 338 00:14:53,460 --> 00:14:56,396 and helped us leverage community and local government resources. 339 00:14:56,396 --> 00:14:59,433 Together, we are implementing very tailored, 340 00:14:59,433 --> 00:15:01,401 immediate solutions, 341 00:15:01,401 --> 00:15:05,339 while also building momentum for longer-term progress. 342 00:15:05,339 --> 00:15:07,808 Our interventions really briefly are really grounded 343 00:15:07,808 --> 00:15:10,010 in three strategic areas. 344 00:15:10,010 --> 00:15:12,179 It's around improving neighborhood conditions 345 00:15:12,179 --> 00:15:15,816 using crime prevention through environmental design principles, 346 00:15:15,816 --> 00:15:19,319 bolstering our small businesses, and building community capacity 347 00:15:19,319 --> 00:15:21,655 and providing human-centered services. 348 00:15:21,655 --> 00:15:23,090 Shout-out to We Deliver Care. 349 00:15:23,090 --> 00:15:24,825 Thank you all for your work. 350 00:15:28,061 --> 00:15:31,598 In other words, improving the neighborhood block by block, 351 00:15:31,598 --> 00:15:33,233 strengthening our small businesses, 352 00:15:33,233 --> 00:15:35,169 and truly investing in the people 353 00:15:35,169 --> 00:15:37,437 and the lives in this neighborhood. 354 00:15:37,437 --> 00:15:39,573 And this work is made possible by both public 355 00:15:39,573 --> 00:15:41,308 and private partnerships. 356 00:15:41,308 --> 00:15:43,744 So I want to again thank the City of Seattle 357 00:15:43,744 --> 00:15:45,779 for their commitment 358 00:15:45,779 --> 00:15:47,748 and continue to work towards this shared community vision. 359 00:15:47,748 --> 00:15:50,317 We're grateful for this ongoing partnership and support 360 00:15:50,317 --> 00:15:52,186 for our neighborhood, 361 00:15:52,186 --> 00:15:56,123 but we know that there's still a lot more to be done. 362 00:15:56,123 --> 00:15:58,158 And, with this public partnership, 363 00:15:58,158 --> 00:16:00,027 as you've heard, 364 00:16:00,027 --> 00:16:01,995 we've been able to leverage our private investments. 365 00:16:01,995 --> 00:16:06,700 As mentioned, Amazon is contributing another $250,000 366 00:16:06,700 --> 00:16:09,169 which will specifically go to support safety, 367 00:16:09,169 --> 00:16:11,905 security, and culturally specific capital improvements 368 00:16:11,905 --> 00:16:13,774 in Little Saigon. 369 00:16:13,774 --> 00:16:16,276 So thank you again to our city leadership, TAAF, 370 00:16:16,276 --> 00:16:18,679 and Amazon for your commitment to the CID and 371 00:16:18,679 --> 00:16:21,281 for helping us expand the impact of this critical work. 372 00:16:21,281 --> 00:16:23,116 Thank you. 373 00:16:23,116 --> 00:16:25,018 -Thank you, Quynh. 374 00:16:25,018 --> 00:16:28,222 -Thank you, Quynh. See how efficient we are here. 375 00:16:28,222 --> 00:16:29,823 That's how we run the show here 376 00:16:29,823 --> 00:16:32,025 in Chinatown International District. 377 00:16:32,025 --> 00:16:34,194 You know, not only is this Asian-American 378 00:16:34,194 --> 00:16:35,929 and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, 379 00:16:35,929 --> 00:16:38,298 it's also Small Business Awareness Month. 380 00:16:38,298 --> 00:16:41,068 And one of our strongest partners in the City of Seattle 381 00:16:41,068 --> 00:16:44,471 and strongest leaders in this area is Laura Clise. 382 00:16:44,471 --> 00:16:46,640 She, of course, is from the Intentionalist, 383 00:16:46,640 --> 00:16:48,075 and she'll bring some brief remarks. 384 00:16:48,075 --> 00:16:49,343 And we just love working with Laura. 385 00:16:49,343 --> 00:16:50,644 Laura, take it away. 386 00:17:01,588 --> 00:17:04,558 -Good morning. I'm Laura Clise. 387 00:17:04,558 --> 00:17:08,929 I'm the founder and CEO of Intentionalist and 388 00:17:08,929 --> 00:17:14,134 self-proclaimed small business super fan. 389 00:17:14,134 --> 00:17:15,969 At Intentionalist, 390 00:17:15,969 --> 00:17:20,274 we believe that where we spend our money matters 391 00:17:20,274 --> 00:17:23,777 and that everyday decisions about where we eat, 392 00:17:23,777 --> 00:17:28,882 drink, and shop are opportunities to connect with 393 00:17:28,882 --> 00:17:33,587 and intentionally spend money in support of the small businesses 394 00:17:33,587 --> 00:17:37,291 at the heart of our communities. 395 00:17:37,291 --> 00:17:42,829 We're here today for the love of Seattle's 396 00:17:42,829 --> 00:17:45,799 Chinatown International District, 397 00:17:45,799 --> 00:17:47,768 neighborhoods 398 00:17:47,768 --> 00:17:52,439 whose story is still being written every day by the people 399 00:17:52,439 --> 00:17:56,210 and small businesses who call it home. 400 00:17:56,210 --> 00:17:58,178 We're also here today 401 00:17:58,178 --> 00:18:02,349 because we believe in what's possible through community 402 00:18:02,349 --> 00:18:04,451 when we connect with, 403 00:18:04,451 --> 00:18:11,825 show up for, and invest in people and places that matter. 404 00:18:11,825 --> 00:18:15,529 The power of community and collective action is what 405 00:18:15,529 --> 00:18:20,167 AMPLIFY Chinatown International District is all about. 406 00:18:20,167 --> 00:18:22,836 AMPLIFY Chinatown International District is 407 00:18:22,836 --> 00:18:27,040 a cross-sector collaboration with the City of Seattle, 408 00:18:27,040 --> 00:18:30,644 the Asian-American Foundation, Visit Seattle, 409 00:18:30,644 --> 00:18:36,817 and Seattle's FIFA World Cup 2026 Local Organizing Committee. 410 00:18:36,817 --> 00:18:42,523 The activation supports 35 small businesses throughout Chinatown, 411 00:18:42,523 --> 00:18:45,726 Japantown, and Little Saigon. 412 00:18:45,726 --> 00:18:49,496 I want to shout out Vlack Media who worked with us 413 00:18:49,496 --> 00:18:53,634 to capture professional photos of all of the businesses 414 00:18:53,634 --> 00:18:58,772 that help tell the story behind every storefront. 415 00:18:58,772 --> 00:19:04,578 Local Filipina artist Shayla Hufana created 416 00:19:04,578 --> 00:19:08,549 the AMPLIFY Chinatown International District artwork 417 00:19:08,549 --> 00:19:10,851 and digital marketing assets 418 00:19:10,851 --> 00:19:15,656 that partners are using to promote the businesses. 419 00:19:15,656 --> 00:19:20,294 And this Saturday, May 17, 420 00:19:20,294 --> 00:19:24,965 alongside the CID BIA and Friends of Little Saigon, 421 00:19:24,965 --> 00:19:29,536 we're excited to welcome the community to come out, 422 00:19:29,536 --> 00:19:31,805 explore the neighborhoods, 423 00:19:31,805 --> 00:19:35,809 and use the free AMPLIFY Chinatown International 424 00:19:35,809 --> 00:19:42,049 District Small Business pass to enjoy free treats and discounts 425 00:19:42,049 --> 00:19:45,319 at 35 local businesses. 426 00:19:45,319 --> 00:19:48,922 And thanks to the Asian-American Foundation, 427 00:19:48,922 --> 00:19:53,026 the cost of all of the discounts is covered, 428 00:19:53,026 --> 00:19:56,129 which means that the deals that we enjoy 429 00:19:56,129 --> 00:20:02,736 don't come at the expense of the small businesses that we love. 430 00:20:02,736 --> 00:20:06,440 The next chapter of the story of Seattle's 431 00:20:06,440 --> 00:20:12,012 Chinatown International District is being written by all of us 432 00:20:12,012 --> 00:20:15,282 and the intentional decisions we make. 433 00:20:15,282 --> 00:20:19,586 AMPLIFY Chinatown International District is our way 434 00:20:19,586 --> 00:20:28,862 of saying these neighborhoods matter, these businesses matter. 435 00:20:28,862 --> 00:20:33,667 And we can all play a part in helping them thrive 436 00:20:33,667 --> 00:20:35,602 when we spend like it matters. 437 00:20:35,602 --> 00:20:39,173 Thank you. -Thank you, Laura. 438 00:20:41,775 --> 00:20:43,243 -You know, our next speaker is Yenvy, 439 00:20:43,243 --> 00:20:45,112 and this is what it's all about, a small business owner. 440 00:20:45,112 --> 00:20:46,847 I was just trying to get to know her a little better, 441 00:20:46,847 --> 00:20:49,550 and I asked what high school she went to. 442 00:20:49,550 --> 00:20:51,218 She didn't say Garfield or Franklin. 443 00:20:51,218 --> 00:20:53,253 So I said, I'm not going to say that. 444 00:20:53,253 --> 00:20:55,122 I said, What's your favorite hobby? 445 00:20:55,122 --> 00:20:57,124 She says, eating. So I'm going to go with that. 446 00:20:57,124 --> 00:21:01,428 And how -- how appropriate for what she does for a living. 447 00:21:01,428 --> 00:21:03,263 I think many of you know Yenvy. 448 00:21:03,263 --> 00:21:06,700 Yenvy Pham is owner of Hello em and Pho Bac, 449 00:21:06,700 --> 00:21:10,070 and we are delighted to have her bring some remarks to us who -- 450 00:21:10,070 --> 00:21:11,071 and she loves to eat. 451 00:21:11,071 --> 00:21:12,339 Means she must love to cook. 452 00:21:12,339 --> 00:21:14,441 So take it over, Yenvy. 453 00:21:17,778 --> 00:21:21,448 -Good morning. Y'all hear me? Wow. 454 00:21:21,448 --> 00:21:23,584 What a crowd. I was so unprepared. 455 00:21:23,584 --> 00:21:25,586 But it's okay. That's what we do. 456 00:21:25,586 --> 00:21:27,754 Anyways, I'm Yenvy Pham. 457 00:21:27,754 --> 00:21:30,123 I grew up in Seattle, born at Swedish. 458 00:21:30,123 --> 00:21:32,960 My parents opened the first Pho back in 1982. 459 00:21:32,960 --> 00:21:37,598 So this is my hood. This is where home is, right. 460 00:21:37,598 --> 00:21:41,301 And we want to continue that home for generations to come. 461 00:21:41,301 --> 00:21:43,203 The hope of this Ambassador Program 462 00:21:43,203 --> 00:21:47,074 is to kind of reconnect to each other, 463 00:21:47,074 --> 00:21:49,109 to have a human-to-human connection, 464 00:21:49,109 --> 00:21:51,879 and to break down the barriers between those who need help 465 00:21:51,879 --> 00:21:53,947 and an everyday person, right. 466 00:21:53,947 --> 00:21:56,149 In my time here, 467 00:21:56,149 --> 00:21:58,819 it's been -- we've seen some really traumatic things. 468 00:21:58,819 --> 00:22:00,888 Just maybe two weeks ago, 469 00:22:00,888 --> 00:22:03,423 someone OD'd in front of soup shop, right? 470 00:22:03,423 --> 00:22:05,325 And it was like 8pm. 471 00:22:05,325 --> 00:22:08,529 There was customers, and this guy was laying there. 472 00:22:08,529 --> 00:22:10,697 And everyone was just walking past him. 473 00:22:10,697 --> 00:22:12,132 Like, I wasn't there, 474 00:22:12,132 --> 00:22:13,700 but I was watching my cameras 475 00:22:13,700 --> 00:22:14,868 because the cops asked for cameras. 476 00:22:14,868 --> 00:22:16,103 But, anyways, 477 00:22:16,103 --> 00:22:17,771 but I was watching the camera, 478 00:22:17,771 --> 00:22:22,276 and I just saw how sad it was that -- 479 00:22:22,276 --> 00:22:25,479 how easy it is to ignore, right? 480 00:22:25,479 --> 00:22:27,247 So what is -- what is this Ambassador Program? 481 00:22:27,247 --> 00:22:30,117 This Ambassador Program is to engage, 482 00:22:30,117 --> 00:22:32,419 to actually care for each other 483 00:22:32,419 --> 00:22:35,255 and see if everyone's doing okay because most of the time, 484 00:22:35,255 --> 00:22:39,359 if someone's acting a fool, they're in pain, you know. 485 00:22:39,359 --> 00:22:41,728 And most of the time they want someone to talk to. 486 00:22:41,728 --> 00:22:43,730 So this is that little step, 487 00:22:43,730 --> 00:22:49,102 that very obtainable thing to do is to engage and not ignore, 488 00:22:49,102 --> 00:22:52,940 to give attention to someone 489 00:22:52,940 --> 00:22:55,909 that may not get attention, right? 490 00:22:55,909 --> 00:22:58,278 And that helps everyone because, 491 00:22:58,278 --> 00:23:00,948 you know, we're not going to eradicate homelessness. 492 00:23:00,948 --> 00:23:02,316 We're not going to eradicate drug use. 493 00:23:02,316 --> 00:23:03,483 It's not going to happen. 494 00:23:03,483 --> 00:23:05,185 You know, that's the reality of it. 495 00:23:05,185 --> 00:23:10,824 But what we can do is just try to reach out 496 00:23:10,824 --> 00:23:12,860 and try to deescalate. 497 00:23:12,860 --> 00:23:17,097 And most of the time it's just people just want to feel loved, 498 00:23:17,097 --> 00:23:18,866 right? 499 00:23:18,866 --> 00:23:20,501 And this is what that Ambassador Program can do 500 00:23:20,501 --> 00:23:23,370 is just have that human connection, 501 00:23:23,370 --> 00:23:25,372 break down the barriers, 502 00:23:25,372 --> 00:23:29,209 and just get back to just talking to each other, right? 503 00:23:29,209 --> 00:23:31,211 And so I'm very excited for this. 504 00:23:31,211 --> 00:23:33,947 I'm really excited for all the organizations behind this. 505 00:23:33,947 --> 00:23:36,116 I don't -- everyone behind me, 506 00:23:36,116 --> 00:23:40,020 do you see how they're all ladies, by the way? 507 00:23:40,020 --> 00:23:41,555 All the ladies in the house. 508 00:23:41,555 --> 00:23:43,090 That's right. 509 00:23:43,090 --> 00:23:46,560 And two gentlemen, of course. But thank you for your time. 510 00:23:46,560 --> 00:23:49,796 I'm really excited for the program, and let's do this. 511 00:23:49,796 --> 00:23:50,931 Bye! 512 00:23:55,369 --> 00:23:59,740 -That's real talk from the Yenvy, real talk. 513 00:23:59,740 --> 00:24:04,745 And now the closer, standing at 6 foot wing, 190 pounds. 514 00:24:04,745 --> 00:24:06,580 You know him as the governor. 515 00:24:06,580 --> 00:24:08,815 You may know him as Commerce Secretary. 516 00:24:08,815 --> 00:24:10,484 You may know him as the ambassador to China. 517 00:24:10,484 --> 00:24:11,852 I present to you -- by the way, 518 00:24:11,852 --> 00:24:13,487 athletes always exaggerate their size, Gary. 519 00:24:13,487 --> 00:24:14,888 That's where I was going with that one. 520 00:24:14,888 --> 00:24:22,262 I present to you Gary Locke. -Thanks, Mayor. 521 00:24:22,262 --> 00:24:25,632 We're talking about maintaining the vibrancy of our communities. 522 00:24:25,632 --> 00:24:27,501 And I can tell you that the Chinatown 523 00:24:27,501 --> 00:24:30,404 International District is very dear to my heart. 524 00:24:30,404 --> 00:24:32,272 As a little kid, 525 00:24:32,272 --> 00:24:33,774 my mom and dad used to come to some of the Chinese groceries 526 00:24:33,774 --> 00:24:37,945 and get Chinese food, herbs. I used to be in the Boy Scouts, 527 00:24:37,945 --> 00:24:39,646 and we met at Chinese Baptist Church 528 00:24:39,646 --> 00:24:41,782 just a few blocks up from here. 529 00:24:41,782 --> 00:24:44,985 Many of us have grown around this community, 530 00:24:44,985 --> 00:24:48,288 but what does it take to be a vibrant community? 531 00:24:48,288 --> 00:24:50,357 You want those small businesses run by mom 532 00:24:50,357 --> 00:24:52,392 and pops to be successful 533 00:24:52,392 --> 00:24:54,761 because they support their families. 534 00:24:54,761 --> 00:24:56,663 You want the restaurants to be attractive 535 00:24:56,663 --> 00:24:58,665 and bringing people here. 536 00:24:58,665 --> 00:25:01,568 We want open spaces where our seniors can play ping pong 537 00:25:01,568 --> 00:25:04,404 and just walk around and enjoy. 538 00:25:04,404 --> 00:25:08,475 But everybody needs to feel safe. 539 00:25:08,475 --> 00:25:10,944 And it's -- government cannot do it by itself. 540 00:25:10,944 --> 00:25:13,046 It's not just the police department 541 00:25:13,046 --> 00:25:14,915 but it's human service organizations 542 00:25:14,915 --> 00:25:16,950 that take care of the needs of the people, 543 00:25:16,950 --> 00:25:21,522 whether it's mental illness or housing and healthcare and food. 544 00:25:21,522 --> 00:25:24,591 It's the involvement of business associations 545 00:25:24,591 --> 00:25:27,227 that advocate for the businesses that are here, 546 00:25:27,227 --> 00:25:30,998 again, really run by mom and pop enterprises and families, 547 00:25:30,998 --> 00:25:35,536 not big corporations and faceless people but people 548 00:25:35,536 --> 00:25:38,772 of our community. And, of course, 549 00:25:38,772 --> 00:25:42,476 we really need to make sure that everybody is pulling together. 550 00:25:42,476 --> 00:25:44,578 Nonprofits can't do it by itself. 551 00:25:44,578 --> 00:25:46,246 Government can't do it by itself. 552 00:25:46,246 --> 00:25:48,715 The police can't do it by themselves. 553 00:25:48,715 --> 00:25:51,752 And so we have programs like the Ambassadorship Program, 554 00:25:51,752 --> 00:25:57,057 sponsored by nonprofits, sponsored by corporations, 555 00:25:57,057 --> 00:25:59,960 and pulling all the elements of this community 556 00:25:59,960 --> 00:26:03,664 together to make sure that it remains vibrant. 557 00:26:03,664 --> 00:26:05,499 The Chinatown International District has seen 558 00:26:05,499 --> 00:26:07,367 some hard times over the last several years, 559 00:26:07,367 --> 00:26:09,736 especially during the COVID era. 560 00:26:09,736 --> 00:26:13,874 It's hard to come back from that isolation and closure 561 00:26:13,874 --> 00:26:16,043 when shops are boarded up 562 00:26:16,043 --> 00:26:19,012 and people feel kind of out of place. 563 00:26:19,012 --> 00:26:21,048 But that's what this program is all about. 564 00:26:21,048 --> 00:26:23,517 And so I'm really excited with the leadership of the mayor; 565 00:26:23,517 --> 00:26:26,753 nonprofit organizations, including TAAF, 566 00:26:26,753 --> 00:26:28,755 and the Ambassadors Program 567 00:26:28,755 --> 00:26:31,458 and the participation and contributions of corporations. 568 00:26:31,458 --> 00:26:32,593 We're showing, 569 00:26:32,593 --> 00:26:34,461 we're saying 570 00:26:34,461 --> 00:26:36,830 that we want the Chinatown International District 571 00:26:36,830 --> 00:26:39,900 to remain vibrant and to be better than ever before. 572 00:26:39,900 --> 00:26:41,134 Thank you very much. 573 00:26:45,038 --> 00:26:47,941 -Thank you very much, Gary. 574 00:26:47,941 --> 00:26:50,944 So our Ambassadors will work seven days a week. 575 00:26:50,944 --> 00:26:52,246 Let me make that very clear. 576 00:26:52,246 --> 00:26:54,515 From 2pm to 10pm, 577 00:26:54,515 --> 00:26:58,485 our We Deliver Care investment and that fine organization 578 00:26:58,485 --> 00:27:02,389 will work seven days a week, from 7:30 to 3. 579 00:27:02,389 --> 00:27:05,225 So we're trying to demonstrate to the community 580 00:27:05,225 --> 00:27:08,228 that we love that we're here for you. 581 00:27:08,228 --> 00:27:10,097 And, with that, if there are any questions, 582 00:27:10,097 --> 00:27:11,965 we'd love to entertain a few questions. 583 00:27:11,965 --> 00:27:16,670 And I will say I want to thank the speakers for, 584 00:27:16,670 --> 00:27:19,173 to coin the phrase used by Yenvy, real talk. 585 00:27:19,173 --> 00:27:20,874 And, if there's any questions 586 00:27:20,874 --> 00:27:22,342 that you would like to respond to you, 587 00:27:22,342 --> 00:27:23,911 you have the license to do that. 588 00:27:23,911 --> 00:27:25,812 So are there any questions that I could address? 589 00:27:25,812 --> 00:27:34,054 Yes, sir Mr. Lynch. Yes. Yenvy. Encore, encore, encore. 590 00:27:34,054 --> 00:27:37,191 -What does all of this mean for your family businesses, 591 00:27:37,191 --> 00:27:38,992 and how excited are you? 592 00:27:38,992 --> 00:27:40,827 -And what to -- what's going forward. 593 00:27:40,827 --> 00:27:42,829 Correct. 594 00:27:42,829 --> 00:27:46,099 What it means is that we're able to have a safe environment 595 00:27:46,099 --> 00:27:48,135 for our staff, 596 00:27:48,135 --> 00:27:51,605 for our customers, and to kind of -- and just really create -- 597 00:27:51,605 --> 00:27:54,875 like, for me, my personal goal is just to, like, 598 00:27:54,875 --> 00:27:58,245 enjoy my neighborhood, right; to, like, work in it, 599 00:27:58,245 --> 00:27:59,947 to hang out in it, you know, 600 00:27:59,947 --> 00:28:02,749 have a few drinks, walk the streets 601 00:28:02,749 --> 00:28:06,253 and not have to worry about my public safety, right? 602 00:28:06,253 --> 00:28:07,688 That's about -- that's about, like, 603 00:28:07,688 --> 00:28:09,590 just bringing people together 604 00:28:09,590 --> 00:28:12,226 and having this amazing energy in this neighborhood 605 00:28:12,226 --> 00:28:15,095 where we can enjoy one is just a place 606 00:28:15,095 --> 00:28:18,365 where we can really come together and gather. 607 00:28:18,365 --> 00:28:21,869 I think Seattle's missing gathering places, you know. 608 00:28:21,869 --> 00:28:24,471 And the CID is such -- 609 00:28:24,471 --> 00:28:28,675 so much potential to bring back what it used to be of gathering 610 00:28:28,675 --> 00:28:32,412 and bringing people together again. 611 00:28:32,412 --> 00:28:39,820 Yenvy is Y-E-N V as in Victor Y; P-H-A-M as in mother. 612 00:28:39,820 --> 00:28:41,421 Thank you. 613 00:28:41,421 --> 00:28:46,560 -Thank you, Yenvy. -Yes, sir. 614 00:28:46,560 --> 00:28:49,630 -Downtown Ambassador Program has an ongoing revenue 615 00:28:49,630 --> 00:28:52,032 [inaudible] 616 00:28:52,032 --> 00:28:56,837 What are the prospects for the long-term sustainability? 617 00:28:56,837 --> 00:28:58,272 -Yes. 618 00:28:58,272 --> 00:29:00,040 So the question is, for those that didn't hear it, 619 00:29:00,040 --> 00:29:03,243 what is the long-term sustainability plan, 620 00:29:03,243 --> 00:29:06,413 which is -- on this project, which is -- 621 00:29:06,413 --> 00:29:08,182 could be differentiated from some other Ambassador Programs. 622 00:29:08,182 --> 00:29:09,550 So we're working through that. 623 00:29:09,550 --> 00:29:11,518 We think that, once again, 624 00:29:11,518 --> 00:29:14,321 we're going to demonstrate that this is a good investment. 625 00:29:14,321 --> 00:29:16,857 And, again, I want to thank Amazon and TAAF. 626 00:29:16,857 --> 00:29:19,760 We're going to demonstrate there are other corporations out here 627 00:29:19,760 --> 00:29:22,729 that would look at -- they see this as the economic vitality. 628 00:29:22,729 --> 00:29:26,300 So my executive team are looking at sustainability streams, 629 00:29:26,300 --> 00:29:28,735 and we think we're going to make a good case with this, 630 00:29:28,735 --> 00:29:30,804 this -- I don't want to call it a pilot. 631 00:29:30,804 --> 00:29:32,506 But we'll look at that. 632 00:29:32,506 --> 00:29:34,408 And the City, of course, will step up, as we have in the past. 633 00:29:34,408 --> 00:29:37,144 We have approximately $500,000 in this investment, 634 00:29:37,144 --> 00:29:38,912 and this is a treasured investment. 635 00:29:38,912 --> 00:29:40,948 So we'll make our decisions accordingly. 636 00:29:40,948 --> 00:29:43,984 But we feel like this is going to be a sustainable program. 637 00:29:43,984 --> 00:29:45,586 Yes. -We see a lot [inaudible] 638 00:29:57,130 --> 00:29:59,733 -Yeah. The question is, what makes this different? 639 00:29:59,733 --> 00:30:01,235 Why does this sort of stand out? 640 00:30:01,235 --> 00:30:05,105 And I guess I'll answer it this way. 641 00:30:05,105 --> 00:30:06,907 We've seen the MID Ambassadors. 642 00:30:06,907 --> 00:30:09,643 We've seen the Ballard Alliance Ambassadors, 643 00:30:09,643 --> 00:30:13,313 and we've seen members of our downtown activation team. 644 00:30:13,313 --> 00:30:15,649 So it's not necessarily different in that sense. 645 00:30:15,649 --> 00:30:17,651 This strategy works. 646 00:30:17,651 --> 00:30:20,554 So we're not trying to create something 647 00:30:20,554 --> 00:30:23,357 that is not working in other parts of the city. 648 00:30:23,357 --> 00:30:25,392 The fine gentlemen standing in back of me 649 00:30:25,392 --> 00:30:27,127 are experienced doing this job. 650 00:30:27,127 --> 00:30:29,796 And we're actually looking for, I've been told, 651 00:30:29,796 --> 00:30:31,331 more ambassadors. 652 00:30:31,331 --> 00:30:33,066 And so any of those that are interested 653 00:30:33,066 --> 00:30:35,202 in helping keep a community safe, come and join. 654 00:30:35,202 --> 00:30:38,272 So we are employing what we can see -- 655 00:30:38,272 --> 00:30:42,109 perceive as the best practice that works in communities, 656 00:30:42,109 --> 00:30:44,178 people that actually love 657 00:30:44,178 --> 00:30:45,579 and want to protect their own community walking around here 658 00:30:45,579 --> 00:30:47,347 and being vibrant. 659 00:30:47,347 --> 00:30:49,816 So we're just sort of continuing an air -- 660 00:30:49,816 --> 00:30:53,020 continuing with a strategy that works. 661 00:30:53,020 --> 00:30:57,257 -Can you specifically address Hoa Mai Park for me. 662 00:30:57,257 --> 00:31:00,494 We've talked to people just recently, just a week ago, 663 00:31:00,494 --> 00:31:02,763 who refer to that as dope slope. 664 00:31:02,763 --> 00:31:07,000 And what is this plan going to do to rectify that situation? 665 00:31:07,000 --> 00:31:09,002 What's the plan? 666 00:31:09,002 --> 00:31:12,005 -So I'm not -- I couldn't even hear half the question. 667 00:31:12,005 --> 00:31:13,841 Yeah, please. 668 00:31:13,841 --> 00:31:17,611 What -- specifically another part of Chinatown 669 00:31:17,611 --> 00:31:18,846 are you referring to? 670 00:31:18,846 --> 00:31:21,048 Yeah. And I haven't heard the terms you're using. 671 00:31:21,048 --> 00:31:22,549 That's why. 672 00:31:22,549 --> 00:31:24,484 -Oh. Hoa Mai Park. -Okay. Go ahead. 673 00:31:24,484 --> 00:31:26,053 -Are you familiar with that? That's that new park. 674 00:31:26,053 --> 00:31:27,588 -No. I'm familiar with that one. 675 00:31:27,588 --> 00:31:28,989 Yes. -Okay. It's across from -- 676 00:31:28,989 --> 00:31:30,057 -I just couldn't hear you. 677 00:31:30,057 --> 00:31:31,959 -Yeah. 678 00:31:31,959 --> 00:31:33,727 What I'm asking is, what does this plan do about that? 679 00:31:33,727 --> 00:31:35,529 Just last week, 680 00:31:35,529 --> 00:31:36,930 you were talking to business owners of people who live here 681 00:31:36,930 --> 00:31:38,966 who refer to that as dope slope. 682 00:31:38,966 --> 00:31:43,871 It's a public safety concern and just keeps getting worse. 683 00:31:43,871 --> 00:31:48,175 So how does this fix that? -Good question. 684 00:31:48,175 --> 00:31:53,080 So, when we participated in the opening of that park, 685 00:31:53,080 --> 00:31:56,283 we had so much excitement because this is an investment 686 00:31:56,283 --> 00:31:58,051 that the City are making. 687 00:31:58,051 --> 00:32:00,220 And, again, I'm -- actually alluded to this 688 00:32:00,220 --> 00:32:01,822 in my earlier remarks. 689 00:32:01,822 --> 00:32:03,624 There are people that are sick out there. 690 00:32:06,193 --> 00:32:09,830 I think Yenvy sort of alluded to that, as well. 691 00:32:09,830 --> 00:32:13,734 And we don't have the county standing with us right now. 692 00:32:13,734 --> 00:32:17,404 And what we think this strategy does is, number one, 693 00:32:17,404 --> 00:32:19,273 it gives more activation, 694 00:32:19,273 --> 00:32:23,777 more people that can help get people services. 695 00:32:23,777 --> 00:32:27,981 A lot of these folks don't have any social ties. 696 00:32:27,981 --> 00:32:29,683 We also have to get good information 697 00:32:29,683 --> 00:32:31,585 to our police department. 698 00:32:31,585 --> 00:32:34,288 So what this does is basically gives us the ability 699 00:32:34,288 --> 00:32:38,358 to form relationships to let our police department know 700 00:32:38,358 --> 00:32:40,260 where there are serious criminal activity 701 00:32:40,260 --> 00:32:42,729 that we have to investigate and possibly arrest, 702 00:32:42,729 --> 00:32:45,599 but it gives us more eyes on the ground. 703 00:32:45,599 --> 00:32:47,868 And I've made it very clear 704 00:32:47,868 --> 00:32:53,273 that my public safety strategy and enforcement 705 00:32:53,273 --> 00:32:58,712 ability should not be confused with the public health approach, 706 00:32:58,712 --> 00:33:00,247 that I do lead with empathy. 707 00:33:00,247 --> 00:33:02,115 When people are sick, I want them treated. 708 00:33:02,115 --> 00:33:07,454 And so I made comments earlier about improvements 709 00:33:07,454 --> 00:33:09,489 with our health department 710 00:33:09,489 --> 00:33:11,058 and what we have to do when we look at what we're seeing. 711 00:33:11,058 --> 00:33:14,962 So some people are bad actors, 712 00:33:14,962 --> 00:33:17,531 and we will take the appropriate action there. 713 00:33:17,531 --> 00:33:19,166 But many of these people need help. 714 00:33:19,166 --> 00:33:21,101 So these ambassadors are just that. 715 00:33:21,101 --> 00:33:24,071 They are ambassadors. This is like a home for them. 716 00:33:24,071 --> 00:33:26,406 And so they'll make sure that we get the right information 717 00:33:26,406 --> 00:33:28,609 to take the right action. 718 00:33:28,609 --> 00:33:34,548 Okay. Yes, sir. -If someone point 719 00:33:34,548 --> 00:33:36,383 [inaudible] 720 00:33:36,383 --> 00:33:38,519 where are you going to be for that? 721 00:33:38,519 --> 00:33:42,556 The crowd here, I live here a long time. 722 00:33:42,556 --> 00:33:44,625 I cannot find police [inaudible] 723 00:33:44,625 --> 00:33:47,261 I don't even know where the police station is, 724 00:33:47,261 --> 00:33:50,464 and I can only talk to the security guard 725 00:33:50,464 --> 00:33:52,065 at the library station. 726 00:33:52,065 --> 00:33:55,235 And they couldn't answer my question. 727 00:33:55,235 --> 00:33:57,804 And what should I do. -Okay. 728 00:33:57,804 --> 00:33:59,506 I'm going to talk to you 729 00:33:59,506 --> 00:34:00,807 because you're not with the press, correct? 730 00:34:00,807 --> 00:34:02,509 Okay. 731 00:34:02,509 --> 00:34:03,911 Can you just stick around after this, 732 00:34:03,911 --> 00:34:05,112 and we'll make sure we give you that information. 733 00:34:05,112 --> 00:34:06,847 Thank you for being here, by the way. 734 00:34:06,847 --> 00:34:10,384 So we'll talk to you off camera, answer your questions. 735 00:34:10,384 --> 00:34:12,386 Okay. David, you have another question. 736 00:34:12,386 --> 00:34:14,855 -What sort of reassurances can you give to this community? 737 00:34:14,855 --> 00:34:17,357 I remember when we talked to you in the past 738 00:34:17,357 --> 00:34:21,929 over the hot spots in 12th and Jackson in Little Saigon. 739 00:34:21,929 --> 00:34:24,831 And we're going to fix that, and that's an issue. 740 00:34:24,831 --> 00:34:27,668 Here we are years later, and it's still an issue. 741 00:34:27,668 --> 00:34:31,338 So what can you -- what sort of reassurances 742 00:34:31,338 --> 00:34:36,510 can you give this community this is going to make a difference? 743 00:34:36,510 --> 00:34:42,583 -So I'll look at the data. 744 00:34:42,583 --> 00:34:45,319 And, once again, we are here for a reason. 745 00:34:45,319 --> 00:34:47,921 That is to show a continuum of investments 746 00:34:47,921 --> 00:34:49,790 in the Chinatown International District. 747 00:34:49,790 --> 00:34:51,692 The fact of the matter is, 748 00:34:51,692 --> 00:34:55,195 is that crime rates are down across the board 18%. 749 00:34:55,195 --> 00:34:59,499 The fact is that homicides are down in our city 27.5%. 750 00:34:59,499 --> 00:35:01,201 The fact of the matter is, 751 00:35:01,201 --> 00:35:03,971 is that violent crimes are down 12.5%. 752 00:35:03,971 --> 00:35:07,741 The fact of the matter is, is that shots fired are down 22%. 753 00:35:07,741 --> 00:35:09,443 We lead with data. 754 00:35:09,443 --> 00:35:11,578 And what we're showing is, once again, 755 00:35:11,578 --> 00:35:13,580 when we're in Chinatown International District, 756 00:35:13,580 --> 00:35:16,583 that this is an investment that we will continue to make. 757 00:35:16,583 --> 00:35:18,886 These partnerships we formed with TAAF, 758 00:35:18,886 --> 00:35:21,722 these partnerships we formed with Amazon 759 00:35:21,722 --> 00:35:25,025 are a result of them being willing to partner with us 760 00:35:25,025 --> 00:35:27,594 and the city being willing to look for partnerships. 761 00:35:27,594 --> 00:35:30,130 This just doesn't happen organically. 762 00:35:30,130 --> 00:35:35,335 I love Laura Clise's organizations name, 763 00:35:35,335 --> 00:35:37,204 The Intentionalist. 764 00:35:37,204 --> 00:35:40,607 We are very intentional about protecting this community. 765 00:35:40,607 --> 00:35:42,643 That's the assurance I'll give you. 766 00:35:42,643 --> 00:35:44,778 Many of you know my roots here in this community. 767 00:35:44,778 --> 00:35:46,780 Many of you know that my personal family 768 00:35:46,780 --> 00:35:49,850 of my aunts and uncles have owned property here. 769 00:35:49,850 --> 00:35:51,585 I'm not a stranger. 770 00:35:51,585 --> 00:35:53,720 I was only born a couple of miles from here. 771 00:35:53,720 --> 00:35:55,455 So, under my administration, 772 00:35:55,455 --> 00:35:57,558 we will continue to invest in this community 773 00:35:57,558 --> 00:36:00,494 because of what it means to this entire city. 774 00:36:00,494 --> 00:36:02,496 Dare, Gary Locke, 775 00:36:02,496 --> 00:36:05,999 did I say what this community means to the entire state. 776 00:36:05,999 --> 00:36:09,770 And, with that, I'm not going to take any more questions. 777 00:36:09,770 --> 00:36:13,106 And I want to welcome councilor -- Port Commissioner. 778 00:36:13,106 --> 00:36:14,408 Where you looking, Sam Cho. 779 00:36:14,408 --> 00:36:15,843 Port Commissioner Sam Cho here. 780 00:36:15,843 --> 00:36:16,844 I'll take some more questions. 781 00:36:16,844 --> 00:36:18,312 David, did you have a question? 782 00:36:18,312 --> 00:36:19,646 That was my mic drop, by the way. 783 00:36:19,646 --> 00:36:29,656 Go ahead. [inaudible] Because I -- 784 00:36:33,861 --> 00:36:37,030 the fact that I just can't hear. 785 00:36:37,030 --> 00:36:41,468 [ Inaudible Comments ] 786 00:36:44,004 --> 00:36:48,041 Yeah. It's still being -- yeah. It's still at the -- 787 00:36:48,041 --> 00:36:49,810 I believe it hasn't been finally passed yet. 788 00:36:49,810 --> 00:36:51,512 I think it's still in deliberation. 789 00:36:51,512 --> 00:36:57,651 Yeah. Okay. Yeah. It's not in effect yet. 790 00:36:57,651 --> 00:37:00,721 But, again, this is one of the areas among many 791 00:37:00,721 --> 00:37:03,524 that we're looking at on how we could be smart 792 00:37:03,524 --> 00:37:06,093 and how we can enforce some of the laws on the books. 793 00:37:06,093 --> 00:37:07,461 -How are you going to measure this, Mayor? 794 00:37:07,461 --> 00:37:08,729 I mean, it's one thing to come here and say, 795 00:37:08,729 --> 00:37:10,464 We're going to do this. 796 00:37:10,464 --> 00:37:12,232 And I get that it's a community, government, 797 00:37:12,232 --> 00:37:14,768 private partnership, public partnership. 798 00:37:14,768 --> 00:37:16,837 But how are you going to measure whether it's successful? 799 00:37:16,837 --> 00:37:20,741 How are we going to know? I know you're there with that. 800 00:37:20,741 --> 00:37:23,477 -Quarterly surveys with the businesses, 801 00:37:23,477 --> 00:37:26,947 the residents, as well as visitors to the neighborhood. 802 00:37:26,947 --> 00:37:31,785 So a text message. You know, fill it out. 803 00:37:31,785 --> 00:37:35,189 -Do you know any specifics about Hoa Mai Park 804 00:37:35,189 --> 00:37:37,224 and getting that area restored? 805 00:37:37,224 --> 00:37:40,127 -I don't know any specifics about it, 806 00:37:40,127 --> 00:37:42,129 but I definitely see it. 807 00:37:42,129 --> 00:37:52,139 Yeah. Tuyen, T-U-Y-E-N; last name Than, T-H-A-N. 808 00:37:53,006 --> 00:37:56,743 Thanks. -Okay. 809 00:37:56,743 --> 00:37:58,178 It looks like I'm going to -- yeah. 810 00:38:00,581 --> 00:38:03,283 Can I talk to you after? I'm going to respect the elder. 811 00:38:03,283 --> 00:38:04,418 Go ahead. 812 00:38:16,897 --> 00:38:21,335 [ Inaudible Comments ] 813 00:38:30,244 --> 00:38:34,581 Yes. 814 00:38:34,581 --> 00:38:36,250 Let me say what Mr. Chucking said. 815 00:38:36,250 --> 00:38:38,085 We're going to -- come on, come on. 816 00:38:38,085 --> 00:38:42,656 Mr. Chucking said that he's been here a long time, 817 00:38:42,656 --> 00:38:47,160 and I'm the best mayor he's ever seen in his entire life. 818 00:38:47,160 --> 00:38:50,464 And he said that he's -- hopes that this works. 819 00:38:50,464 --> 00:38:52,766 And he's got a Husky shirt on -- coat on, 820 00:38:52,766 --> 00:38:56,069 too, so he's just really on all -- he's on fire, Mr. Chucking. 821 00:38:56,069 --> 00:38:58,071 Thank you for your comments. 822 00:38:58,071 --> 00:39:01,375 And we're going to have another address to a previous question. 823 00:39:01,375 --> 00:39:03,243 -I don't -- okay. 824 00:39:03,243 --> 00:39:06,246 I just wanted to address the Hoa Mai Park question 825 00:39:06,246 --> 00:39:09,249 because I know that that has been one 826 00:39:09,249 --> 00:39:13,120 of the identified focus areas or hot spots. 827 00:39:13,120 --> 00:39:15,155 Many of you who passed by Hoa Mai, 828 00:39:15,155 --> 00:39:17,024 it's right across from Lam Seafood 829 00:39:17,024 --> 00:39:24,064 on King between 12th and Rainier Avenue, our newest park. 830 00:39:24,064 --> 00:39:26,200 It's been open less than a year. 831 00:39:26,200 --> 00:39:29,236 But we're still seeing just the highest number 832 00:39:29,236 --> 00:39:31,538 of challenges there. 833 00:39:31,538 --> 00:39:33,373 Let's just put it that way. 834 00:39:33,373 --> 00:39:35,375 I think there has been a lot of focus 835 00:39:35,375 --> 00:39:39,213 on addressing things like that, addressing the challenges there. 836 00:39:39,213 --> 00:39:42,749 We see, like, We Deliver Care make their presence. 837 00:39:42,749 --> 00:39:45,018 The City has done a lot with their -- 838 00:39:45,018 --> 00:39:51,792 the DAT, right, DAT team to do both outreach and clean up 839 00:39:51,792 --> 00:39:53,360 and all of those things. 840 00:39:53,360 --> 00:39:55,262 And so I think there is an effort, 841 00:39:55,262 --> 00:39:59,499 but I believe there could be more done 842 00:39:59,499 --> 00:40:01,635 to prioritize the resources 843 00:40:01,635 --> 00:40:06,607 to at least address the problems in different phases. 844 00:40:06,607 --> 00:40:12,713 It can't be a kind of piecemeal approach from services 845 00:40:12,713 --> 00:40:16,750 to activation to other physical and art investments. 846 00:40:16,750 --> 00:40:20,721 They need to line up to see the actual impacts 847 00:40:20,721 --> 00:40:22,589 and improvements at the park. 848 00:40:27,027 --> 00:40:28,729 We're also going to make it prettier 849 00:40:28,729 --> 00:40:30,297 and more activations there. 850 00:40:35,202 --> 00:40:36,870 -Again, thank you for being here. 851 00:40:36,870 --> 00:40:38,872 Follow up on the question May 19 is 852 00:40:38,872 --> 00:40:41,942 when the nightlife ordinance will kick in and is applied. 853 00:40:41,942 --> 00:40:44,311 So I want to give you that information, David. 854 00:40:44,311 --> 00:40:46,813 Thank you for being here. This means a lot to us. 855 00:40:46,813 --> 00:40:50,083 But when you show up like this, community, and even the media, 856 00:40:50,083 --> 00:40:52,219 when you show up like this, it means you care as well. 857 00:40:52,219 --> 00:40:53,687 So thank everyone for being here, 858 00:40:53,687 --> 00:40:54,688 and let's make it a great day. 859 00:40:54,688 --> 00:40:55,856 Thank you very much.