Category: Community

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Community Self-Improve Small Businesses

The Top Scams of 2022 and How to Protect Against Them: Insights from the FTC and Ethnic Media Services

Scammers have continued to evolve their tactics, and 2022 saw a rise in the total amount lost by consumers and small businesses. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) partnered with Ethnic Media Services to reveal the top five scams of 2022 and their economic impact, as well as how to spot and protect against them.

Scammer

According to the FTC, while there was a decrease in the number of fraud reports received in 2022, the total amount lost by consumers and small businesses rose to $8.8 billion, the most ever reported. The top two frauds were imposter fraud and online shopping scams. Consumers reported losing $660 million to business imposters compared to $450 million the year before.

Investor fraud was the most lucrative for scammers, with consumers reporting a loss of almost $3.8 billion, with the majority in cryptocurrency scams. Scammers often entice consumers to invest in cryptocurrency through social media, presenting fake websites that show the consumer’s money growing. Social media was the contact method that had the highest aggregated dollar loss, with $1.2 billion.

The FTC experts also highlighted that scammers are targeting ethnic communities and speaking their language. For example, the Latino community filed a higher percentage of reports relating to problems with banks and lenders, related to debt collection, auto issues, and also business opportunities. Scammers also targeted Latinos with bogus business opportunities and work-at-home schemes. In contrast, the black community reported the largest number of reports about payday loan applications and student debt relief programs.

Scammer

To help people spot and avoid scams, the FTC provides information in a dozen languages, including Amharic, Arabic, Chinese (both simplified and traditional), French, Hmong, Korean, Russian, Somali, Tagalog, Vietnamese, and Ukrainian. The FTC’s downloadable publication, Spotting, Avoiding and Reporting Scams: A Fraud Handbook for recent refugees and immigrants, helps people learn to spot some of the scams related to looking for a job, going through the immigration process, or just trying to figure out how things work in the US. There are also graphics in each language at the bottom of each page to share on social media, helping people in various communities know how to spot, avoid, and report fraud.

In conclusion, while the number of fraud reports decreased in 2022, scammers continue to evolve their tactics, with investor fraud and cryptocurrency scams being the most lucrative. The FTC recommends being aware of scams and provides resources in multiple languages to help people spot, avoid, and report fraud.

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Community Self-Improve

Stop Telling Your Parents to Relax: Encouraging Meaningful Activities in Retirement

Viet Bao Louisville, KY
Viet Bao Louisville, KY

Retirement is often seen as a time to relax and take it easy, but for many individuals, continuing to work and stay active can be a more fulfilling and healthier option. Di Tran’s mom is a perfect example of this mentality, stating, “Don’t tell me to retire, nor tell me to stop working.” Many people may be quick to advise retirees to “just relax” and stay at home, but this can be a bad idea for aging parents. Instead, encouraging meaningful activities and work can lead to better health outcomes and a more fulfilling life.

Fun Church Activities for elders

Human biologists and experts have found that a sedentary lifestyle can have negative effects on both physical and mental health. Dr. Herman Pontzer states, “The human body is designed for activity, and without it, we experience a range of health problems. We need movement to keep our muscles, bones, and cardiovascular systems healthy.” A study published in the Journal of Aging and Health found that sedentary behavior is associated with negative health outcomes such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.

In addition, without a sense of purpose, retirees can feel aimless and disconnected. The transition from a structured work schedule to a life of leisure can be challenging. National Geographic Fellow and longevity expert Dr. Dan Buettner suggests, “Having a purpose in life is critical for our mental health and wellbeing. For many people, work provides a sense of purpose and structure. Without it, retirees can struggle to find meaning in their day-to-day lives.”

Fun community activities for elders

Instead of urging parents to retire, it is crucial to encourage meaningful work and activities that provide a sense of purpose. Retirement does not necessarily mean a complete withdrawal from work; it can be an opportunity to explore new interests and passions, pursue hobbies, or even start a new business. Continuing to work and stay active can have positive impacts on both physical and mental health outcomes. As Di Tran was advised, “Don’t tell your parents to just relax, and just stay home and rest or just eat. Bad bad idea for old age.”

The pursuit of comfort in retirement may not be the best option for our long-term health. Instead, encouraging meaningful work and activities can lead to better health outcomes and a more fulfilling life. As Di Tran’s mom suggests, don’t urge retirees to retire; instead, encourage them to continue working on activities that provide a sense of purpose and keep them active.

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Community

Di Tran’s Reflection on Resilience and Gratitude: A Family’s Experience during the Louisville Power Outage on February 27th, 2023

On February 27th, 2023, Louisville, Kentucky experienced strong winds gusting over 50 miles per hour that caused damage to trees and power lines, leading to power outages for over 7,000 households in the area. Di Tran and his family were among those affected, and they spent a night without electricity in their home.

Despite the hardship of the situation, Di Tran reflected on his gratitude for living in the United States, where he and his family could enjoy freedom and opportunity. He also remembered his past experiences in Vietnam, where he lived in a rural countryside without electricity, and taught his children to appreciate the simple things in life.

As the family sat in candlelight, they talked about their blessings and how they could help those less fortunate. The power outage brought them closer as a family and reminded them of the importance of resilience, gratitude, and community.

The following day, the power was restored, and life returned to normal. The experience left a lasting impression on Di Tran and his family, reminding them of the value of simple things and the power of human resilience in the face of adversity. The incident also highlighted the importance of preparedness for severe weather events and the need for community support during times of crisis.

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Community Self-Improve

Exploring Cultural Beliefs and Sayings about Turning 40

Viet Bao Louisville, KY
Viet Bao Louisville, KY

The milestone age of 40 is a subject of cultural and societal beliefs and sayings that have evolved over time. Here are some of the most common beliefs and their meanings:

“Life begins at 40″ – This popular saying suggests that 40 is the age when life starts anew. It implies that people at 40 feel more self-aware and are better equipped to embark on new adventures. According to the author Sarah Ban Breathnach, “We have learned to listen more closely to our intuition, to follow our dreams, and to take action on things that we are passionate about.”

“Over the hill” – This phrase is used humorously to describe someone who has passed their prime. The saying implies that people at 40 are past their peak and are now on the downward slope of their lives. However, this can be disputed, as many successful people such as J.K. Rowling, Jeff Bezos, and Elon Musk accomplished their biggest achievements after 40.

“Midlife crisis” – This phrase suggests that around the age of 40, many individuals experience a period of introspection and questioning about their life choices and goals. This term was first coined by psychoanalyst Elliot Jaques in 1965 to describe the sudden realization of one’s mortality and the resulting changes in priorities. In fact, many books such as “The Second Half of Life” by Angeles Arrien and “Man’s Search for Meaning” by Viktor E. Frankl, explore this subject in depth.

“Forty and fabulous” – This phrase celebrates reaching 40 and suggests that it can be a time when people feel confident, accomplished, and proud of what they have achieved. For many, 40 is a time of empowerment, as they’ve gained wisdom, knowledge, and experience over the years. According to the author Laura Fraser, “As I got older, I realized that what I wanted was more powerful than what I was afraid of.”

It’s important to note that while these sayings reflect common attitudes and beliefs about the age of 40, everyone’s experience of turning 40 is unique. Some may feel invigorated by this age, while others may feel anxious. Therefore, it’s important to approach the milestone with a positive outlook and embrace the opportunities it brings.

The cultural and societal beliefs and sayings about age 40 are varied and reflect a range of attitudes towards this milestone age. While some may suggest that 40 is over the hill or signals a midlife crisis, others view it as a time for new beginnings, empowerment, and self-reflection. Ultimately, the meaning of turning 40 is subjective and depends on the individual’s life experiences and attitude.

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Community Leadership Development Small Businesses Workforce Development

Di Tran’s Encounter with Dr. Price: A Message of Progress and Equity

Dr.Price and Di Tran
Dr.Price and Di Tran

On February 16th, 2023, Di Tran attended a weekly event hosted by the Rotary Club of Louisville where she had the opportunity to meet with Dr. Price. From the start of their conversation, Di Tran was struck by Dr. Price’s opening statement, “I pray that God talk through me, and to you today.” It was an indication of the deep connection that Dr. Price had to her faith and a sign of her sincerity in addressing the issues that affect the community.

Dr. Price introduced herself as a member of the Urban League, a non-profit organization that aims to promote economic empowerment and social justice for people of color. She described how she starts her staff meetings with a reflection on the past, present, and future of the Urban League. She spoke with conviction and confidence that the past is obsolete, the future is obsolete, and the current state of progress is where the focus should be. She emphasized that the community must work together to create a future where there is no need to talk about equity, especially for black and brown people.

Dr. Price’s message was about leaning into discomfort and feeling it for others. It was a call to action for people to step outside their comfort zones and confront the challenges facing the community. She stressed the importance of taking practical steps to address the issues that prevent people from realizing their full potential.

One practical example that Dr. Price shared was the accessibility of Kumon tutoring for underprivileged children. Di Tran was highly aligned with this idea, recognizing that education is one of the keys to breaking the cycle of poverty. Dr. Price’s emphasis on the importance of practical solutions and small steps resonated with Di Tran and many others in the room.

Dr. Price’s message was one of hope and progress. She talked about the future of the city being bright because of people like herself and Di Tran coming together to do small things that add up. It was a reminder that positive change is possible, and it starts with each individual making a difference in their own way. Di Tran left the event feeling inspired and encouraged to continue making a positive impact in the community.

In conclusion, Di Tran’s meeting with Dr. Price at the Rotary Club of Louisville’s weekly event was a reminder of the importance of focusing on others and having faith in the future. As Di Tran writes in his first book, “Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERs,” the key to personal and professional growth is shifting our attention away from ourselves and towards those around us. Dr. Price’s emphasis on leaning into discomfort and feeling it for others, as well as her commitment to providing resources like Kumon tutoring for underprivileged children, are shining examples of this principle in action.

Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH by Di Tran

As Di Tran prepares to release his second book, “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH,” we can look forward to further insights and inspiration on how to navigate the challenges of life and work with courage and conviction. With the guidance of leaders like Dr. Price and the example of Di Tran’s own journey, we can all strive to become better, more compassionate, and more effective in our personal and professional lives.

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Community Self-Improve Small Businesses Workforce Development

Surrendering to God and Filling the Emptiness: A Profound Conversation with Liz Curtis Higgs

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Who is Liz Curtis Higgs

Liz Curtis Higgs is a bestselling author, speaker, and Bible teacher. She was born in Kentucky, USA, in 1953, and grew up in a Christian family. She has written more than 30 books, including non-fiction works on topics such as biblical studies, women’s issues, and Christian living, as well as novels and children’s books.

Liz Curtis Higgs

Higgs is perhaps best known for her Bad Girls of the Bible series, which explores the lives of women in the Bible who made mistakes or broke the rules, such as Eve, Delilah, and Bathsheba. Her books have sold millions of copies and have been translated into numerous languages.

In addition to her writing, Higgs is a popular speaker and Bible teacher, and has traveled extensively to speak at conferences and events. She has also appeared on numerous television and radio programs. Higgs currently lives in Louisville, Kentucky, with her husband, Bill, and their two children.

Di Tran’s Meeting with Liz Curtis Higgs

Meeting Liz Curtis Higgs was a truly wonderful experience, and it was clear that God was working through both of us during our conversation. We talked about surrendering to God and the moment when we each became aware of the presence of the divine in our lives. Liz shared a profound insight with me, that our hearts, souls, and cores are like empty vacuum spaces that are constantly seeking to be filled with something.

As humans, we often seek to fill this emptiness with material things, food, alcohol, negativity, anger, power, success, or any number of other things. But what we fill up with truly matters, and the answer to our seeking is much simpler than we might imagine.

Di Tran + Liz Curtis Higgs

The answer has always been with us, as God is within each of us. We have everything we need, including the most powerful of all things, our spirit, which is in harmony with the infinite divine universe. The challenge is that we often don’t let our spirit do its job, as we try to control everything in our lives.

What we need to do is surrender and let go of our self, so that our spirit can run its course naturally and manifest the things we desire. This is in alignment with the idea of “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH,” which I explore in my upcoming book, the guide to faith by understanding fear and worry, and surrendering them so that God has the space to work through us.

It’s clear that filling the emptiness with things outside in the world doesn’t fill it. We need God as the energy to fill that space, and surrendering to God allows this energy to flow freely.

I’m so grateful for my conversation with Liz, and for the wisdom she shared with me. It’s clear that God is working through her, and through each of us, in ways that we might not even realize.

References

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Community Leadership Development

Steps to Becoming a Priest in the Catholic Church: An Overview of the Ranks and Requirements

Di Tran, CEO of Viet Bao Louisville Ky
Di Tran, CEO of Viet Bao Louisville Ky

In the Catholic Church, the priesthood is an ordained ministry that provides spiritual guidance and sacramental support to the faithful. Here is a list of the ranks in the priesthood, in ascending order:

  1. Deacon: To become a deacon, a man must first be a baptized and confirmed Catholic. He must then express a desire to serve in the diaconate, undergo formation and discernment, and be approved by his bishop. The formation process typically involves several years of academic study, spiritual development, and practical training. Once ordained, deacons serve in a variety of roles, including preaching, administering the sacrament of baptism, and performing charitable work.
  2. Priest: To become a priest, a man must first be a deacon, although some men enter directly into the seminary from lay life. Like those aspiring to the diaconate, men pursuing the priesthood must undergo formation and discernment, be approved by their bishop, and be ordained. The formation process for priests is typically more extensive than for deacons, including deeper studies in theology, philosophy, and pastoral ministry.
  3. Bishop: To become a bishop, a priest must first demonstrate a strong commitment to the Church and a high level of pastoral and theological expertise. He must also be approved by the Pope and receive the consensus of his fellow bishops. The process of becoming a bishop involves extensive consultation and evaluation, and the man selected must demonstrate exceptional leadership, spiritual depth, and a willingness to serve the Church.
  4. Archbishop: An archbishop is simply a bishop who heads an archdiocese, which is a particular church with a specific geographical jurisdiction. To become an archbishop, a bishop must first demonstrate a successful record of leadership and pastoral service in his diocese, and then be appointed by the Pope to lead the archdiocese.
  5. Cardinal: Cardinals are members of the College of Cardinals, which is a group of senior church leaders who advise the Pope and play a key role in electing a new Pope when the need arises. To become a cardinal, a bishop must be appointed by the Pope and receive the consensus of the College of Cardinals.
  6. Pope: The Pope is the Bishop of Rome and the leader of the worldwide Catholic Church. To become Pope, one must first be a bishop, although not necessarily a cardinal. When the Pope dies or resigns, the College of Cardinals meets in a process known as a conclave to elect a new Pope. The election is based on the qualities of the candidates, the needs of the Church, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The man elected Pope must then be approved by a two-thirds majority of the College of Cardinals.

It’s worth noting that not all priests become bishops, and not all bishops become cardinals. The appointment to each rank is made by the Pope and is based on a variety of factors, including experience, leadership skills, and the needs of the Church.

Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH

In conclusion, the priesthood is a noble and demanding form of community service that requires both dedication and courage. It is a calling to serve the Church and the people of God with love, compassion, and spiritual guidance. This calling is not for the faint of heart, as it requires a deep commitment to serving others and a willingness to sacrifice personal interests for the greater good. However, for those who are called to the priesthood, it can be an incredibly rewarding and fulfilling vocation that brings joy and meaning to their lives.

This message is in line with the teachings of Di Tran in his book “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITh.” Tran encourages readers to overcome their fears and to trust in God’s plan for their lives. He reminds us that with faith, we can overcome any obstacle and live a life of purpose and fulfillment. For those considering the priesthood, this message is particularly relevant. The priesthood can be a challenging path, but with faith and a commitment to serving others, it can also be a source of great joy and satisfaction. By focusing on the faith and letting go of fear, those called to the priesthood can confidently answer the call and make a positive impact on the world.

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Community

Celebrating 50 Years of Dedicated Service: Sister Ngoc Dung’s Golden Jubilee in Louisville, Kentucky

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Today, on February 12th, 2023, the Catholic community of Saint John Vianney in Louisville, Kentucky gathered to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of Sister Ngoc Dung, a Vietnamese immigrant who has dedicated 50 years of her life to serving God as a nun in the Catholic Church. The celebration Mass, held at St Gregory Catholic Church, was presided over by Archbishop Shelton J. Fabre and was a joyous and meaningful occasion for Sister Ngoc Dung and all who have been touched by her ministry and life.

St Gregory Catholic Church

Sister Ngoc Dung, also known as Sơ Ngọc Dung in Vietnamese, has been a beloved member of the Catholic community in Louisville for many years. Her dedication and commitment to serving others has earned her the respect and admiration of all who know her. Over the past 50 years, she has touched the lives of countless individuals through her ministry and has been a source of inspiration and guidance to those around her.

The celebration Mass was attended by family and friends from the Vietnamese community of Louisville, as well as members of the Catholic Church of Saint John Vianney. The Mass was a beautiful and meaningful celebration of Sister Ngoc Dung’s 50 years of service to God, and was a testament to the impact that her life has had on so many others.

During the Mass, Archbishop Shelton J. Fabre offered a homily in which he spoke about the significance of Sister Ngoc Dung’s Golden Jubilee and the importance of dedicating one’s life to serving God and others. He praised Sister Ngoc Dung for her unwavering faith and her commitment to her vocation, and he thanked her for all that she has done for the Catholic community in Louisville.

After the Mass, a reception was held in honor of Sister Ngoc Dung, where friends, family, and members of the community gathered to offer their congratulations and well wishes. The atmosphere was one of joy and celebration, as everyone came together to honor this remarkable woman and to celebrate the impact that her life has had on so many others.

The Golden Jubilee celebration of Sister Ngoc Dung was a truly special and meaningful occasion. Her 50 years of dedicated service to God and her commitment to her vocation have earned her the respect and admiration of all who know her, and today’s celebration was a fitting tribute to her life and her ministry. The Catholic community of Louisville is grateful to have Sister Ngoc Dung as a part of their lives, and they wish her many more years of happiness, health, and blessings.

Drop the FEAR and Focus on FAITH

In conclusion, Sister Ngoc Dung’s Golden Jubilee celebration serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that one person’s unwavering faith and commitment can have on the lives of so many others. Her 50 years of dedicated service to God and her community is a testament to the transformative power of dropping fear and focusing on faith. Sister Ngoc Dung’s story is an inspiration to all of us, reminding us that by embracing faith and living with purpose, we too can make a difference in the world.

Her journey, as reflected in Di Tran’s book “Drop the FEAR and Focus on FAITH,” shows us that by letting go of fear and embracing faith, we can overcome life’s challenges and fulfill our calling. Sister Ngoc Dung’s life serves as a shining example of how to live a life filled with meaning and purpose, and her Golden Jubilee is a time for us all to celebrate her achievements and to be inspired by her unwavering faith and dedication.

As Sister Ngoc Dung continues to live out her faith and serve her community, may we all be inspired by her example and find the courage to drop our fears and focus on our own faith, so that we too can make a positive impact on the world around us.

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Community

The Waves of Vietnamese Immigration to the United States: Characteristics and Settlement Patterns (1975-Present)

There have been several waves of Vietnamese immigration to the United States, each with its own unique circumstances and characteristics. The location of Vietnamese immigration to the U.S. has varied across each wave.

  1. First Wave (1975-1995): The first wave of Vietnamese refugees settled primarily in large cities on the West Coast and in Texas. Cities such as San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Houston became major centers for Vietnamese immigration and provided many of the resources and support networks necessary for these refugees to begin their new lives in the U.S. This wave was primarily composed of South Vietnamese military personnel, government officials, and their families, who were evacuated from the country during Operation Frequent Wind. Many of these refugees faced discrimination and struggled to assimilate into American society.
  2. Second Wave (1980s-1990s): The second wave of Vietnamese immigration was more dispersed, with many refugees settling in smaller cities and rural areas. This was due to a combination of factors, including the availability of sponsors and job opportunities, as well as the cost of living in larger cities. Many second-wave refugees settled in the Midwestern and Southern regions of the U.S., where they established new Vietnamese American communities. This wave was primarily composed of people who had been living in refugee camps in Southeast Asia and was sponsored by relatives or churches in the United States.
  3. Third Wave (1990s-Present): The third wave of Vietnamese immigration has been more diverse in terms of location, with many immigrants settling in both large cities and suburban areas. This wave of immigration has also been characterized by higher levels of education and financial stability, which has allowed many Vietnamese Americans to settle in more affluent areas. Additionally, the reunification of families has played a significant role in the settlement patterns of third-wave immigrants, with many choosing to live near relatives already established in the U.S. This wave of immigration has been driven by reunification of families and economic opportunities. Many of these immigrants have come to the U.S. through the family-sponsored immigration program.

Overall, the Vietnamese American community has made significant contributions to the U.S. and has established itself as a vibrant and successful community. Despite facing many challenges, the Vietnamese American community has remained strong and continues to grow and thrive in the United States, now found in many regions from California to New York and from Texas to Washington state.

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Community

Breaking Free from Negative News: Tips for Finding Informative and Positive Stories

In today’s fast-paced world, the media plays a crucial role in shaping our opinions, beliefs, and attitudes. With the advent of social media, the news has become more accessible, but at the same time, it has also become more sensationalized. News outlets are increasingly focused on grabbing our attention with shocking headlines and controversial stories, often at the expense of the truth.

Read Happy News Only

It’s easy to get caught up in the negativity and drama of the news, and feel anger or frustration towards specific individuals or groups. But while this might be a natural response, it’s important to recognize that this type of news is often intended to provoke our emotions and draw attention away from the actual story. By focusing on our reactions, these news outlets are able to manipulate the narrative and control the discourse.

So how can we break free from this cycle of negativity and find news that enlightens and raises our awareness to good? The answer lies in being more discerning about the sources we choose to consume. Here are a few tips for finding news that is both informative and positive:

  1. Look for reliable sources: It’s essential to choose news sources that have a strong reputation for impartiality, accuracy, and objectivity. Consider subscribing to trusted news outlets such as major newspapers, television networks, and online news websites.
  2. Seek out positive stories: It’s easy to get caught up in negative news, but it’s important to remember that there’s plenty of good in the world too. Look for news outlets that focus on positive stories, such as stories of human kindness, community spirit, and social justice.
  3. Get a diverse perspective: It’s essential to seek out different perspectives and understand the different sides of an issue. This can help you form a more well-rounded and nuanced view of the world. Consider subscribing to news outlets from different regions, cultures, and political affiliations.
  4. Seek out expert opinions: If you’re looking for in-depth analysis on a particular issue, look for news outlets that feature experts and specialists in the field. This can help you gain a deeper understanding of complex issues and make informed decisions.

It’s important to be mindful of the news we consume and how it affects our attitudes and beliefs. By seeking out reliable, positive, and diverse sources, we can ensure that the news we receive is both enlightening and raises our awareness to good. With a more informed and positive outlook on the world, we can make a positive difference in our communities and the world at large.

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