Trail-Blazin'-Asian .....

I wish to sing the praises of those hearty pioneers who made successful inroads to West Texas palates with trailblazin' Asian cuisine.

And no, it's not the people we've been hearing so much about in the local media the past couple weeks to whom I tip my toque.

First, lets get something said right from the start ... good luck to Bushido Japanese Sushi Bar and Steakhouse in northwest Midland. We need more stories like theirs, about owning and operating your own business, and making it a success. But I suggest part of their success in getting Midlanders to eat raw seafood - other than the ubiquitous tuna fish salad - is due in part to the fact that we HAVE been enjoying fine sushi for quite some time now.

We've tried it, we like it, and we're ready for more - courtesy of Sushiya and 'your friendly neighborhood' H.E.B., where Luai and his staff have been serving up a wide variety of sushi, as well as pot stickers, spring rolls, Asian condiments and salads - available in individual servings, and in party-size trays.

Something neat about the Sushiya staff ... they are all newcomers to Midland. Among other things, they came here for the work, helping to fill a desperate shortage of workers in the local job force. But since then, they have come to appreciate the quality of life here, and they have established ties to the community and its people. Longtime and devoted customers have become good friends and advocates, and made them welcome in their adopted home.

So, good luck to Sushiya, as well!