May 20, 2022
May is Asian American Pacific Islander month, or AAPI for short, a time to celebrate the Asian and Pacific Islanders in the United States and their contributions to the history of this country. By recognizing the culture, history, and achievements of Asian American and Pacific Islanders, we can broaden the understanding of their countries and cultures, as well as enhance the appreciation for all that they have given to make this country great.
As is the case with many commemorative months, AAPI originated with Congress. In 1978, Congress passed, and President Jimmy Carter signed into law, a joint resolution declaring a week in May as “Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week.” This was later expanded to a month, and in 1992, May was designated as Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month.
At Cedar Trails Senior Living Freeburg, IL, we will be celebrating by honoring the countries of Vietnam, Samoa, Korea, and the Philippines.
The dishes I am making are as follows: Vietnam – I am making beef pho and fresh spring roll with peanut sauce; Samoa – I am having pineapple chicken skewers, coconut sweet rice and via meleni watermelon drink; Korea – I am making beef bulgogi, Korean pancake and japchae; and Philippines – I am going make chicken inasal, pork BBQ skewers and banana turron.
I let Cedar Trails department heads decide which counties they wanted to celebrate and the corresponding dishes. Sheila picked beef pho to try authentic Vietnamese pho. Michelle’s pick was pineapple skewers because she thought it sounded good. Shelbe picked beef bulgogi because she loves spicy food. I picked chicken inasal because I love grilled foods.
As a culinary director, I feel we should celebrate Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month because I came from one of these countries and I’m so excited for the AAPI celebration.
We are honored to have the opportunity to celebrate these countries, their contributions, and their foods this month! And we would be even more honored if you would join us. Give us a call to learn more about how you can get a seat at the table this month!
Cedar Trails Senior Living in Freeburg, IL offers independent senior apartments, assisted living, and memory care with a variety of services and a range of floor plan options. Amenities include restaurant dining, 24-hour bistro, concierge service, housekeeping, events and entertainment, personal care, transportation services, and more. Centrally located near St. Elizabeth’s Hospital with convenient access to major shopping centers, including The Orchards Golf Club, Target, Eckerts Belleville Farm, Braeutigam Orchards, and the Belle Clair fairgrounds & Expo Center.
