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.
Shared Office Space In Vancouver WA says
Hi every one, here every person is sharing
these familiarity, therefore it’s good to read this website, and I used to pay a
quick visit this web site all the time.
STOW CLEANING COMPANY says
Thank you, I’ve recently been searching for info approximately this subject for a long time and
yours is the greatest I’ve discovered till now. But, what concerning the conclusion? Are you certain in regards to
the source?
prise de masse says
If you wish for to grow your know-how simply keep visiting this web site and be updated with the hottest gossip posted here.
High Dusting Services says
Wow! At last I got a webpage from where I be capable
of really obtain useful information concerning my study and knowledge.
venice tuna fishing says
I like the valuable info you provide to your articles.
I will bookmark your weblog and take a look at again here
regularly. I’m quite certain I will be told many new stuff proper here!
Good luck for the next!
programme de remise en forme says
Hi there, I desire to subscribe for this website to obtain hottest updates, therefore where can i do it please assist.
Rebekah says
Hi to all, the contents existing at this site are in fact amazing for people knowledge, well, keep
up the nice work fellows.
Krav Maga Tigard says
Appreciating the persistence you put into your blog and detailed information you provide.
It’s nice to come across a blog every once in a while that isn’t the same unwanted rehashed information. Excellent
read! I’ve bookmarked your site and I’m adding your RSS feeds to my Google account.
breitling says
Admiring the commitment you put into your website and detailed information you
present. It’s nice to come across a blog every once in a while that isn’t the same outdated rehashed information. Excellent read!
I’ve saved your site and I’m adding your RSS feeds to my Google
account.
Islam says
Hi there, after reading this amazing article i am also
happy to share my experience here with mates.
investasi terpercaya says
Simply want to say your article is as astonishing. The clearness to your put
up is just great and i can suppose you’re knowledgeable on this subject.
Fine together with your permission let me to grasp your RSS feed to
keep updated with impending post. Thanks 1,000,000 and please keep up the rewarding work.
safisana isamado getgas jumia littlecabs says
This is my first time pay a quick visit at here and i am really impressed to read all at single place.
Lottery systems that work says
If some one wants to be updated with latest technologies therefore
he must be go to see this web page and be up to date every day.
buy a concentrate rig says
This is the perfect webpage for anyone who wishes to understand this topic.
You understand so much its almost hard to argue with you (not that I actually would want to…HaHa).
You definitely put a brand new spin on a subject which has been discussed for years.
Excellent stuff, just excellent!
senior care articles says
We’re a bunch of volunteers and opening a new scheme in our community.
Your site provided us with useful info to work on. You’ve done an impressive task and our whole
group shall be grateful to you.
appbounty hack says
A software should have of hack needlessly where you’ve to have
anything hues and cheat devicds to state,.; And massive Goal debuted its mobile gift-card
approach that has been new on its site, comprehensive appbounty hack tool having a film
on acquire, combination and how to get and show gift cards all on your own mobile products.;
Thus here’s some AppNana cheats that are completely
legit, lawful, and wont get your account forbidden!; I have been appling
that I possibly could make sure that is legit annd
AppBounty limitations since this year that was past.
Gebrauchte Smartphones says
Hurrah! At last I got a website from where I can in fact get useful data concerning
my study and knowledge.
slots says
What’s up mates, how is everything, and what you wish for
to say regarding this post, in my view its in fact awesome in favor of me.
tester05 says
I am actually pleased to read this website posts which carries
plenty of valuable information, thanks for
providing such data.
selber bauen says
Have you ever thought about adding a little bit more than just your articles?
I mean, what you say is valuable and everything. Nevertheless think
about if you added some great pictures or video clips to give
your posts more, “pop”! Your content is excellent but with images and videos, this blog could undeniably be one of the very best in its
niche. Very good blog!
galaxy s7 case etsy says
I’d like to find out more? I’d want to find out more details.
Under desk bikes says
Pretty! This has been a really wonderful article.
Thanks for providing this information.
writing says
When someone writes an article he/she maintains the image
of a user in his/her mind that how a user can know it. Therefore that’s
why this post is outstdanding. Thanks!
agen nola says
Tremendous things here. I’m very satisfied to see your article.
Thanks a lot and I’m looking forward to touch you. Will you
please drop me a e-mail?
Therapist Near Me in Silver Spring says
Hi colleagues, its great piece of writing concerning cultureand entirely explained, keep it up all the time.
social media analytics says
Hi there mates, good piece of writing and good arguments commented
here, I am actually enjoying by these.
Online business says
Hmm it seems like your site ate my first comment (it was super
long) so I guess I’ll just sum it up what I wrote and say, I’m thoroughly enjoying your blog.
I too am an aspiring blog writer but I’m still new to the whole thing.
Do you have any tips for first-time blog writers? I’d certainly appreciate
it.
building maintenance says
After checking out a number of the articles on your blog,
I seriously appreciate your technique of writing a blog.
I added it to my bookmark site list and will be
checking back soon. Please check out my web site too and let
me know what you think.
enail says
Thanks , I have recently been searching for information about this topic for a while and yours is the greatest I’ve came upon till now.
However, what about the bottom line? Are you sure in regards to the
source?
Vivo Diamonds says
This post will assist the internet users for creating new blog or even a weblog from start to end.
burun estetigi says
This site definitely has all the information and facts I needed about this subject and didn’t know who to
ask.
Partnerlinks says
My family always say that I am killing my time here at net, however I
know I am getting know-how daily by reading thes good content.
Software Estimation says
That is a good tip particularly to those fresh to the blogosphere.
Short but very precise information… Many thanks for sharing this
one. A must read post!
Pitbull Niebezpieczne Kobiety Oglądaj Online says
Having read this I believed it was extremely enlightening.
I appreciate you spending some time and effort to put this article together.
I once again find myself personally spending way too much time both
reading and posting comments. But so what, it was still worthwhile!
download full pc games says
Hi, its good piece of writing on the topic of media print, we
all understand media is a wonderful source of information.
Charlotte says
Hello to every , as I am genuinely eager of reading
this weblog’s post to be updated regularly. It contains good stuff.
free merchant account in india says
My brother recommended I might like this website. He was totally right.
This put up truly made my day. You cann’t imagine just how a lot time I had spent for this info!
Thanks!
linterna led buena says
I don’t leave a leave a response, but after looking at through a few of the comments on this page Why I admire Uncle Bob.
I actually do have 2 questions for you if you do not mind.
Is it just me or does it look like some of the comments appear as if
they are left by brain dead folks? 😛 And,
if you are writing on other social sites, I would like to
follow anything new you have to post. Would you make a list of all of your social community pages like your
linkedin profile, Facebook page or twitter feed?
Mauritius holiday says
Hi there to all, the contents present at this site are actually awesome for people
knowledge, well, keep up the good work fellows.
twitter promotion says
Have you ever thought about adding a little bit more than just your articles?
I mean, what you say is important and everything.
However just imagine if you added some great images or videos to give your posts
more, “pop”! Your content is excellent but with pics and video clips, this blog could certainly be one of the
greatest in its niche. Good blog!
contractors says
Hello, of course this paragraph is in fact pleasant and I have learned
lot of things from it concerning blogging. thanks.
Abnehmen leicht gemacht says
Hello, after reading this amazing post i am also delighted
to share my knowledge here with colleagues.
Franklin says
Fantastic blog! Do you have any suggestions for aspiring writers?
I’m hoping to start my own website soon but I’m a little lost on everything.
Would you propose starting with a free platform like WordPress or go for a paid option? There are so many choices out there that I’m totally overwhelmed ..
Any suggestions? Kudos!
code promo vente privée says
Thank you for another wonderful article. The place else could anyone
get that type of info in such a perfect approach of writing?
I have a presentation next week, and I’m on the search for such information.
Insurance says
Hello there I am so glad I found your webpage, I really
found you by error, while I was looking on Google for something else,
Regardless I am here now and would just like to say thanks
for a incredible post and a all round thrilling blog (I also love the theme/design), I don’t have time to read it all at
the moment but I have saved it and also included
your RSS feeds, so when I have time I will be back to
read more, Please do keep up the fantastic job.
brandbeveiliging says
This website was… how do I say it? Relevant!!
Finally I’ve found something which helped me.
Thank you!
Jim Lutes says
Great beat ! I would like to apprentice while you amend your website, how can i subscribe for a weblog web site?
The account aided me a acceptable deal. I were a little bit familiar
of this your broadcast provided bright transparent idea
armenian coffee says
Hello, i think that i saw you visited my web site thus i got here to return the choose?.I am attempting to find things to enhance my web site!I guess its good enough to use some of your ideas!!
buy virgin hair says
In fact no matter if someone doesn’t be aware of
then its up to other people that they will help, so
here it takes place.
Angela says
La experiencia de los pacientes renales crónicos a respeito de de
su sexualidad está íntimamente vinculado con la relación sexual saludables tanto a nivel biológico como emocional. http://www.solitaire-galerie-berlin.de/guestbox/guestbox.php?Anfangsposition=0