Chad Hugo Elementary

Allegations surround Pao; Here's an alternative

MADISON, WI - Former Vietnam era Hmong General Vang Pao and nine other men have been federally charged in California in an alleged plot to overthrow the communist government of Laos.

News reports have Pao and the others allegedly purchasing dozens of AK-47 machine guns and smoke grenades and inspected Stinger missiles, with material to be delivered to Bangkok next week. The apparent goal was to target military and civilian personnel along with military occupied buildings for attack.

It was only two months ago that the Madison School Board approved naming a new west side elementary school in honor of the Hmong general and former Wisconsin state legislative aide.

The growing Hmong community in Madison have characterized Pao's legacy as one of trailblazing leadership that has led to opportunities not usually afforded to the Hmong population. Supporters have pointed out Pao's assistance to the U.S. military in Vietnam, and his aid of refugees to back up this claim.

Opponents, on the other hand, have sited allegations of drug trafficking and war crimes as being enough to prohibit the School Board's approval.

Certainly these recent allegations will add fuel to the fire.

I've got an idea to appease both sides.

Madison's Asian population has dramatically increased over the years, so recognition is surely do. However selecting General Pao as that representation is indeed misled. I offer a man whose Asian heritage and character has never been questioned. Here is a committed family man who has gained great wealth in the United States and has equally given back to the community. That man is none other than Chad Hugo, one half of the immensely successful Hip Hop production team known as the Neptunes (and their excellent genre hopping side project, N.E.R.D.)

Hugo, who is of Filipino decent, arguably is the right fit for a new elementary school. His honor and loyalty to children is best evidenced in his refusal to ever accompany N.E.R.D on tours across the country. I've been to two of their shows and have yet to see anything but Pharrell hopping around shirtless on stage urging both males and females to scream in support of the opposite sex...(oddly enough the Mij responded to the former.)

Also, after a quick glance at the globe, I've yet to find the country of Hmong. Who exactly are these people? Full disclosure: I am of Filipino decent, and have been told that I'm exceptionally cool considering my race. I don't know any cool Hmong people, just some chick I tried dating some years back, but as I moved in for the kiss I was suddenly reminded of every female member of my family. Needless to say, my associations with the Hmong people have been confusing at best.

So please help me in championing Chad Hugo as the face of Asian-Americans in these troubling times. One things for sure: the music program will be fully funded.