By Assunta Ng
Northwest Asian Weekly
It’s easy and challenging to write about Uncle Bob Santos, the legend — partly because he’s fascinating, with so many gut-wrenching stories. He was full of ambition, not for himself, but for the community. He dreamed often and succeeded in achieving big goals — his fingerprints are all over the International District (ID), including nine buildings for affordable housing, which he was directly or indirectly responsible for.
Santos died last Saturday at the age of 82, after staying five weeks in the hospital.
Who would have led protests at the age of 81, holding a bullhorn, firing off words with followers echoing him with enthusiasm? Santos instigated two protests last year after the death of community hero Donnie Chin, founder of the International District Emergency Center. Chin was killed in the crossfire of two rival gangs in the ID. The protests were targeting King’s Hookah Bar on 8th Ave. S. and S. Weller, half a block from where Chin was killed. The protests aimed at shutting down the bar.
But Santos didn’t just protest without warning. He shared his wish at an ID community meeting after Chin’s death. He and State Sen. Bob Hasegawa even met with the bar’s owner, and made him understand where the community was coming from. That’s Bob’s way of bridge building and problem-solving.
Who had the ears of the past five Seattle mayors? Uncle Bob was an adviser to the past five mayors. No one in the ID has that kind of clout.
Who would turn down powerful jobs? To stay in the community, Santos declined an administrative post to run a Washington state agency in 2001, and an offer to direct the Seattle Office of Neighborhoods in 2002.
Who would have come out of retirement multiple times to go back to work at Inter*Im, the organization he founded, to help businesses and residents foster a better ID? This year, he worked two days a week at the Inter*Im.
Santos enjoyed controversies
The last thing Santos wanted was to exclude himself out of controversies. Santos was one of the few people I know who thrive in controversies. It simply illustrated his fighting spirit. He wouldn’t stay silent in the face of accusations or attacks, such as the issue of the name “Chinatown International District.” Should the name Chinatown be a part of it, or before ID, or after ID, when naming the library or the Sound Transit station?
Some naysayers were from the Chinese community.
For past three-plus decades, the Asian Weekly has witnessed both good and bad in the community, and no one has done as much as Bob for the community — ID Village Square featuring affordable housing and programs for seniors, and a community center, public library, day care, clinic, and the Danny Woo Garden.
Part of his magic had to do with his charm, sense of social justice, and ability to raise millions of dollars and connect the dots. He often challenged himself, “What else can I do?”
“Bob did a lot for the community,” said Harry Chan, owner of Tai Tung Restaurant. “It’s hard to find someone like Bob. He fought for the community all the time. Look around all those buildings for affordable housing (in the ID). It’s his doing.”
As to criticism towards Santos, Chan said, “You can’t please everybody.”
A media darling
Media hates to hear “no comment” or “don’t quote me.” A number of Asian Americans are often hesitant to speak their mind, no matter how angry they are, or how strongly they believe in something. The fear of retaliation could be one of the reasons. But it could be our culture. Asian Americans were taught not to rock the boat. Keep quiet and be cautious. Not Uncle Bob.
I called him up for quotes in Asian Weekly stories and he never disappointed. Nor would he say, “Let me think about it.”
Everything he said, was right on. His statements were powerful, precise, honest, and above all, quotable.
Unlike some who give you juicy details, then say, “Don’t quote me.”
In late 2007, then-governor Christine Gregoire didn’t appoint the Asian community’s favorite contender, Mary Yu, to replace a retiring Washington Supreme Court Justice, and several community leaders were furious. Yet none of them would go on the record. Some finally sent the Asian Weekly a letter to the editor, complaining about the appointment of a white candidate. No one dared to sign the letter except Uncle Bob. He was happy to be the lone signer — the only one to put his name out there. Uncle Bob’s mind was fearless. He didn’t worry about who said what about him and what if — he just did what was right for the community.
More than karaoke at Bush Garden
“I was the matchmaker for Sharon (Santos’ wife) and Bob,” said Joan Seko, former owner of the restaurant. Both were karaoke regulars at Bush Garden. They liked each other initially, and Santos let Seko read their palms — Seko concluded that Sharon and Bob were compatible.
Since last Saturday, Santos’ singing pals have been dropping by Bush Garden every night for karaoke, dedicating songs to Santos. Elvis and Frank Sinatra were among his favorites.
Few people knew of Santos’ talent as a singer before karaoke became popular, said Karen Sakata, owner of Bush Garden. Bush was the first in the country to provide karaoke service in the late 1980s, and Santos became a regular customer since then.
As a state representative, Sharon is probably too busy to join us for karaoke, Seko said.
Several years ago, we honored Sharon at the Women of Color Empowered luncheon. I was not surprised that Uncle Bob came, but surprised that he came with flowers. The guy had his romantic side.
Uncle Bob was proud of Sharon’s work in the legislature and community, but he was frustrated because she doesn’t share her success with the community. She is chair of the education committee in the legislature and other national organizations. “She doesn’t tell people (of her contributions). I asked her, ‘Why didn’t you let me promote you?’” Sharon wouldn’t let him.
It bothered Santos that the Seattle Times endorsed Sharon’s opponent last time. This year, the Times endorsed Sharon before Bob’s death. He would be so proud. He must have felt, “Here at last!”
For the past decade, Uncle Bob spoke to students of the Asian Weekly’s Summer Youth Leadership Program (SYLP) at the Danny Woo Garden, which he founded. “Uncle Bob was one of the most memorable and impactful speakers for SYLP,” said Marvin Eng, past SYLP coordinator. “He would inspire and challenge the students to be agents of change and to step up as the next generation of leaders. Through his rich storytelling, we got glimpses of his work as an activist and his heart for people.”
In 2012, the Asian Weekly celebrated its 30th anniversary. Uncle Bob sang and I am glad we taped the whole program. I have to conclude that he’s a wonderful performer with a great sense of rhythm and a melodious voice. “I practiced for your event,” he said.
Uncle Bob, thank you for everything, especially for inspiring us to make a difference in the community.
Assunta can be reached at assunta@nwasianweekly.com.
OEM plastic parts supplier says
Fantastic web site. A lot of useful information here. I am
sending it to some pals ans additionally sharing in delicious.
And certainly, thanks in your effort!
piano avila says
You actually make it appear really easy together
with your presentation however I to find this topic to be really something that I feel I might
never understand. It sort of feels too complicated and extremely wide for me.
I’m taking a look forward on your next submit,
I’ll try to get the grasp of it!
Followers Instagram Gratis says
Currently it looks like Drupal is the preferred blogging platform out there right now.
(from what I’ve read) Is that what you are using on your blog?
list of tamil news channels says
you’re in point of fact a good webmaster. The web site loading speed is incredible.
It seems that you’re doing any unique trick. In addition,
The contents are masterwork. you have done a fantastic process on this topic!
web design Queenstown says
I am really thankful to the owner of this web page who
has shared this wonderful article at here.
author help says
Thank you, I have recently been searching for information approximately this subject for
ages and yours is the greatest I’ve came upon till now.
However, what about the bottom line? Are you sure
in regards to the supply?
find house for rent says
Hi there everybody, here every one is sharing these familiarity, thus it’s nice to read this web site, and I
used to pay a visit this webpage every day.
andhra pradesh news headlines says
Hi there to every one, for the reason that I am genuinely keen of reading this weblog’s post to be updated on a regular basis.
It includes pleasant material.
site says
At this time it appears like BlogEngine is the top blogging
platform available right now. (from what I’ve read) Is that what you’re using
on your blog?
modern furniture rental says
At this moment I am ready to do my breakfast, afterward having my breakfast coming again to read more news.
best home router says
Hi it’s me, I am also visiting this site on a regular basis,
this site is in fact good and the users are really sharing nice thoughts.
condos says
This is very interesting, You’re an excessively skilled blogger.
I’ve joined your feed and look ahead to searching for more of your wonderful post.
Additionally, I’ve shared your web site in my social networks
healthy says
There is certainly a lot to know about this topic.
I really like all of the points you’ve made.
csgo ranked accounts says
Very good article! We are linking to this particularly great post
on our website. Keep up the good writing.
Avionske karte says
I’m amazed, I have to admit. Rarely do I come across a blog
that’s both equally educative and engaging, and let me tell you,
you have hit the nail on the head. The issue is an issue that too few men and women are speaking intelligently about.
Now i’m very happy I came across this in my hunt for something concerning this.
Handmade greeting cards says
I’m impressed, I must say. Rarely do I come across a blog that’s both equally educative and entertaining, and
without a doubt, you’ve hit the nail on the head.
The problem is something that not enough men and women are speaking
intelligently about. I’m very happy that I came across
this in my search for something regarding this.
pittsburgh says
Excellent post. I was checking constantly this blog and I’m impressed!
Very useful information particularly the last part 🙂 I care for such information much.
I was looking for this particular information for a long time.
Thank you and best of luck.
Hair products says
Admiring the commitment you put into your blog and in depth information you provide.
It’s good to come across a blog every once in a while that isn’t the same unwanted rehashed information. Excellent read!
I’ve saved your site and I’m adding your
RSS feeds to my Google account.
men's athletic clothes says
Whats up very cool web site!! Man .. Excellent .. Superb ..
I will bookmark your website and take the feeds additionally?
I am satisfied to find so many useful information here in the submit, we’d
like work out more strategies in this regard, thanks for sharing.
. . . . .
sew-ins says
What i do not understood is actually how you are no longer
really a lot more well-liked than you may be right now.
You are very intelligent. You realize therefore considerably with regards
to this subject, produced me personally imagine it from so many various angles.
Its like men and women are not fascinated unless it is one thing to do with Girl gaga!
Your own stuffs outstanding. At all times handle it up!
is the bible true says
Hello to every one, for the reason that I am genuinely eager
of reading this blog’s post to be updated daily.
It contains good information.
businesses in Israel says
Heya outstanding blog! Does running a blog such as this take a great deal
of work? I have virtually no knowledge of coding but I was hoping to start my own blog soon. Anyway, if you have any ideas or tips
for new blog owners please share. I know this
is off subject but I just had to ask. Cheers!
remote control helicopter with camera says
I’d like to find out more? I’d love to find out more details.
wealth advisors marketing says
You can certainly see your skills in the work you write. The arena hopes for more passionate
writers like you who are not afraid to say
how they believe. All the time go after your heart.
Electricians Deptford says
Hmm it looks like your website ate my first comment
(it was extremely long) so I guess I’ll just sum it up what I submitted and say, I’m thoroughly enjoying your
blog. I as well am an aspiring blog blogger but I’m still new to the whole thing.
Do you have any tips for first-time blog writers? I’d really appreciate it.
gearboxes says
My brother suggested I may like this web site. He was
totally right. This publish truly made my day.
You cann’t imagine just how so much time I had spent for this
information! Thank you!
Blocked toilet london says
I am really delighted to glance at this blog
posts which consists of tons of helpful information, thanks for providing these kinds
of data.
7 Tips Liburan ke Shanghai says
At this time it sounds like BlogEngine is the best blogging
platform out there right now. (from what I’ve read)
Is that what you are using on your blog?
Poker Online Bonus Deposit Terbesar says
wonderful issues altogether, you just won a new reader.
What would you suggest about your put up that you simply
made some days ago? Any sure?
Dentist marketing says
I quite like reading a post that can make people think.
Also, thank you for permitting me to comment!
anger depression says
Hello, i feel that i saw you visited my blog thus i got here to go back
the prefer?.I am trying to to find issues
to improve my site!I suppose its adequate to use
some of your concepts!!
Software kaufen says
Valuable information. Fortunate me I found your website by
chance, and I am shocked why this accident did not came about in advance!
I bookmarked it.
good cheap dab rigs says
At this time it appears like Drupal is the top blogging platform out there right now.
(from what I’ve read) Is that what you’re using on your blog?
cricinfo live scorecard says
Thanks for finally talking about >Why I admire Uncle
Bob <Loved it!
Tactical Headlamps says
Thank you, I’ve just been searching for information approximately this subject for a while and yours is the best I have discovered so far.
But, what in regards to the conclusion? Are you sure in regards to the source?
kerala tourist places says
I do not know whether it’s just me or if everybody else experiencing issues with your website.
It appears as though some of the written text within your content
are running off the screen. Can somebody else please comment and let me know if this is happening to them too?
This may be a issue with my web browser because I’ve had this happen previously.
Cheers
buy fidget spinner says
I am not sure the place you are getting your info, however
great topic. I must spend a while studying more or
figuring out more. Thank you for great information I used to be looking for this info for
my mission.
Exhibitions says
I got this site from my buddy who shared with me about
this website and at the moment this time I am browsing this web page and reading
very informative content at this time.
Vacuum Pumps says
of course like your website but you have to test the spelling
on several of your posts. A number of them are rife with spelling problems and I find it very troublesome
to tell the truth then again I will definitely come back again.
organic skincare says
Nice blog here! Also your website quite a bit
up fast! What host are you the usage of? Can I get your affiliate hyperlink
in your host? I wish my site loaded up as quickly as yours lol
downloader says
I don’t even understand how I finished up here, but I believed this post was once good.
I don’t understand who you might be however certainly you’re going to a famous blogger when you are not already.
Cheers!
Hundefutter Test says
Thanks a lot for sharing this with all folks you really recognize what you’re talking about!
Bookmarked. Please also talk over with my site =). We may have a
link alternate contract between us
www.gpugrid.net says
Thanks , I’ve just been searching for info approximately this topic for a long time and yours
is the greatest I have came upon so far. However,
what concerning the conclusion? Are you positive concerning
the source?
Got Leads 365 says
There is definately a great deal to find out about this issue.
I like all of the points you made.
Gotleads 365 says
Admiring the commitment you put into your blog and in depth information you provide.
It’s nice to come across a blog every once in a
while that isn’t the same out of date rehashed material.
Wonderful read! I’ve bookmarked your site and I’m adding your RSS feeds
to my Google account.
dating advice says
WOW just what I was searching for. Came here by searching
for dating apps
Courses says
I think this is one of the such a lot vital information for me.
And i am glad reading your article. However want to commentary on some
normal things, The site taste is ideal, the articles is in reality great : D.
Excellent task, cheers
Duct Cleaning says
Thank you for the auspicious writeup. It in fact was a leisure account it.
Glance complex to far brought agreeable from you! By the way, how can we be in contact?
about China culture says
Oh my goodness! Impressive article dude! Thank you, However I am going through issues with your RSS.
I don’t know the reason why I am unable to join it. Is there anybody else having
similar RSS problems? Anyone that knows the solution can you kindly respond?
Thanx!!
Senior Care Franchise Opportuniy says
It’s really a nice and useful piece of information. I am glad that you shared this helpful info with
us. Please keep us informed like this. Thanks
for sharing.