Tag: Kentucky

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Di Tran’s Deep Gratitude: The Tri Ân Monument Legacy

Di Tran, a proud board member of Tri Ân and author of “Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERS,” stands on the brink of another significant achievement with the imminent release of his new book, “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH.” As an influential figure within the Vietnamese-American community in Louisville, Kentucky, Tran is an individual of deep-rooted values and indomitable spirit.

On this July 4th weekend, as the United States celebrates its Independence Day, Tran finds himself standing on the site of the nearing completion Tri Ân Monument at Veterans Memorial Park in Jeffersontown, Kentucky. This particular setting seems emblematic of his life’s journey – a testament to freedom, gratitude, and shared heritage.

As Tran describes himself, he is a “version 1.5 immigrant,” born and educated in Vietnam until the age of twelve, after which he migrated to Louisville, KY. Here, he completed his secondary education and went on to earn multiple college degrees, showcasing his relentless dedication to self-improvement and resilience.

For Tran, America stands as the top country on Earth – a beacon of freedom, opportunity, and strength. Being part of the Tri Ân Monument, especially under the leadership of fellow Vietnamese immigrants and revered Vietnam veterans, is an overwhelming experience for him. The presence of esteemed military generals, for whom Tran holds deep respect, elevates the importance of the project for him.

The Tri Ân Monument, with its towering walls, is a palpable representation of Tran’s Vietnam roots. Its stones, twice the height of Tran and sourced directly from Vietnam, symbolize the gratitude he feels towards Vietnam War veterans from both his birth and adopted countries. The phrase “Tri Ân” means “deep gratitude” in Vietnamese, an emotion Tran profoundly resonates with.

This monument, due for completion in October 2023, isn’t merely a physical structure. It’s an enduring generational signature for the Vietnamese community in Louisville, KY, and across the United States. It’s a tribute to America, the nation that has given them so much, and a token of gratitude to the brave soldiers who protected freedom and democracy.

Di Tran hopes that the Tri Ân Monument will also serve as a teaching tool for young Vietnamese-Americans. It is a concrete symbol of their ancestral roots and their present lives, reminding them of the importance of hard work, gratitude, and giving back to the United States. As Tran so often emphasizes, the monument embodies the spirit of dropping fear and focusing on faith.

The Tri Ân Monument and Veterans Memorial Park can be visited at 10707 Taylorsville Rd, Jeffersontown, Kentucky 40299. Its profound message of gratitude and unity reverberates well beyond its physical boundaries, reaching the hearts and minds of those who understand its significance. As it stands, it is a testament to the dreams, struggles, and triumphs of immigrants like Di Tran, who continue to write their remarkable stories in this land of the free.

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Bourbon Whiskey Community Corporation Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH Drop the ME and focus on the OTHERS Food Health Leadership Development Self-Improve Small Businesses

A Day of Resonance and Inspiration: Meeting Brittany Penny and her Husband at the Rotary Club of Louisville

At the heart of Kentucky, where the love for bourbon is as deep as its historical roots, the Rotary Club of Louisville’s weekly meeting at the Woman Club of Louisville provided a stage for an inspiring encounter. Among the distinguished attendees were Brittany Penny, the founder of IX Bourbon Whiskey, and her husband, who together are making waves in the traditionally male-dominated bourbon industry.

Raised in Louisville, Kentucky, Brittany developed a deep appreciation for bourbon, sparked by her father’s extensive knowledge and collection. Her passion for bourbon took a business turn in 2020 during her pregnancy when she was able to discern different aroma profiles from her husband’s bourbon collection. Guided by these newly discovered nuances, she took a leap of faith and, with the unwavering support of her husband, launched IX Bourbon Whiskey. It was not just about creating a unique brand of bourbon, but about disrupting an industry and paving the way for female entrepreneurs.

For the members of the Rotary Club of Louisville, and especially for serial entrepreneur and soon-to-be bourbon brand owner Di Tran, this tale of perseverance and determination hit a powerful chord. Like the Pennys, Tran is no stranger to the challenges of establishing a new brand, navigating the complexities of sourcing bourbon, bottling, and marketing. The meeting served as a platform for shared experiences, struggles, and triumphs.

What resonated with Tran was Brittany’s ethos, “Be yourself, flaw and all.” This maxim aligns perfectly with Tran’s own philosophy, set to be shared in his forthcoming book, “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH.” The book embraces the concept of learning from failures, appreciating them, and the strength found in rising from them.

Tran’s soon-to-be-released bourbon, named Belief, shares this essence of embracing challenges and rising above. It represents not just a product but a philosophy, a testament to Tran’s journey of faith and determination, akin to Brittany’s endeavor with IX Bourbon Whiskey.

The Penny’s story of daring to dream and challenge the status quo, and their demonstration of remarkable resilience, reflects a shared ethos with Di Tran. In Brittany, Tran found not just an inspiring entrepreneur, but also a mirror reflecting his own beliefs and values.

The Rotary Club meeting was more than just a gathering; it was an affirmation of shared values, of resilience, and a testament to the spirit of entrepreneurship. The stories of Brittany Penny and Di Tran serve as a reminder of the power of faith and perseverance, the importance of learning from failures, and the potential that lies in daring to dream.

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Community Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH Drop the ME and focus on the OTHERS Health Immigration Leadership Development Self-Improve Workforce Development

Di Tran and Hannah Drake: A Meeting of Minds and Passions at the Rotary Club of Louisville

Louisville, Kentucky, known as the gateway to the South, is a city rich in history and culture. At a recent Rotary Club of Louisville meeting held at the Woman’s Club of Louisville on 1320 S 4th St, Louisville, KY 40208, two remarkable figures found a connection in their shared values and visions for a better world. Di Tran, the author of “Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERS” and the soon-to-be-released “Drop the FEAR and focus on the FAITH”, was deeply impacted by the words of Hannah Drake, the renowned poet, author, and social advocate.

Hannah Drake, known for her powerful poetry and spoken word performances, is a figure who embodies pride in her heritage and has always been an advocate for social change. She took the stage with grace, and her opening words were poignant, “Space, my space, your space, our space.” These words resonated deeply with Di Tran, who himself is often heard in his speeches saying “USA is the number one country on earth”, indicating his love and responsibility towards his adopted homeland.

As Hannah emphasized the significance of history and the importance of knowing where one comes from, there was an echo in the room. For her, acknowledging your roots and origin is crucial, as it grounds you in your identity. She believes that this grounding provides a foundation upon which individuals can build and work towards contributing value to society and fulfilling their roles as citizens.

This sentiment struck a chord with Di Tran, whose writings often stress the importance of altruism and positive contribution to the community. His first book, “Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERS,” encourages individuals to look beyond themselves and consider the impact they can have on those around them. His upcoming book, “Drop the FEAR and focus on the FAITH,” is expected to delve further into overcoming personal limitations and embracing a larger vision for the common good.

In an age where division often seems more prominent than unity, the encounter between Hannah Drake and Di Tran symbolized a kindling of shared beliefs. They are both advocates for not only embracing and being proud of one’s heritage but also using that foundation to build bridges and contribute positively to society.

As members of the Rotary Club, an organization with a longstanding history of service and community building, their message was particularly apt. The resonance between Hannah’s emphasis on space and history, and Di’s focus on contribution and faith, reminds us that there are universal values that can unite people from diverse backgrounds.

In closing, this meeting was a reminder that regardless of where we come from, it’s where we’re going that counts. Hannah Drake and Di Tran are two figures that exemplify this, and through their words and actions, they continue to inspire all of us to stand tall and contribute to the tapestry of this great nation.

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Community Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH Drop the ME and focus on the OTHERS Immigration Leadership Development Self-Improve Small Businesses Workforce Development

Di Tran: A Night of Reflection and Inspiration at the Most Admired Woman Awards 2023

Local entrepreneur and author Di Tran attends the prestigious Most Admired Woman event and shares his profound reflections.

LOUISVILLE, KY, June 13, 2023 — Tonight, Mellwood Art Center at 1860 Mellwood Ave was abuzz with excitement and inspiration as it hosted the Most Admired Woman Awards 2023. Among the attendees was Di Tran, the co-founder and CEO of MiaHire USA, Louisville Beauty Academy, Louisville Institute of Technology, and Di Tran Enterprise. An entrepreneur, software developer, IT consultant, and author, Di Tran was deeply touched and honored to be among such an inspiring group of people, especially the women who were being celebrated on the night.

Di Tran’s respect for women, particularly mothers, runs deep and is a recurring theme in his writings. His book, “Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERs,” sheds light on this admiration and is an homage to his own mother, whom he considers his number one idol. In his book, he eloquently describes the sacrifices, strength, and dedication of mothers and women in general, who contribute so much to their families and communities.

As the night unfolded, Di Tran was taken by the stories of the women who were being honored. These incredible women, many of whom are mothers, juggle multiple responsibilities ranging from family care to running successful businesses, and community leadership. They handle familial obligations, domestic chores, business challenges, personal health, and still manage to lead and inspire. Di Tran observed that their energy seemed inexhaustible and their commitment unwavering.

One of the most striking takeaways from the evening for Di Tran was the role of spirituality in the lives of these amazing women. A recurring theme among the Most Admired Women of 2023 was their unwavering faith in God as a source of strength, guidance, and purpose. They credited their accomplishments to a higher power and showcased a deep sense of humility and gratitude.

Furthermore, the environment at the event was thick with mutual support. These women were not only successful in their own right but were also genuinely supportive of each other’s achievements. They embodied a mindset of rising beyond oneself for the betterment of the community and demonstrated that a “glass has to be full to be shared.”

Di Tran, already an advocate for selflessness and community, found his beliefs resonating strongly with the messages of the night. He left the Mellwood Art Center not only inspired but also reaffirmed in his commitment to focusing on others and contributing positively to society.

The Most Admired Woman Awards 2023 will remain a night of reflection and inspiration for Di Tran and all who were privileged to attend. It highlighted the incredible capacity of women, particularly mothers, to serve as the bedrock of families and communities, and it showcased the potent combination of faith, mutual support, and selfless service as a blueprint for a better world.

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Community Leadership Development Self-Improve

Beshear Family: A Remarkable Legacy of Leadership and Living by Example

The Beshear family is an admirable example of dedication, service, and the power of strong family values. In a proud state like Kentucky, it is a rarity to witness a father and son both serve as governors, making their story even more remarkable. Recently, during Andy Beshear’s campaign for his second term as governor, I had the pleasure of witnessing a heartwarming encounter between Di Tran, a local resident, and Steve Beshear, the former governor of Kentucky and father of Andy Beshear.

As Di Tran eagerly approached Steve Beshear, he extended his hand with a warm smile and asked, “Sir, how did you raise a son like this, with such a beautiful heart and mind?” Steve Beshear, known for his humility and down-to-earth nature, graciously accepted Di Tran’s handshake and replied, “It’s his mom’s work,” accompanied by a smile that spoke volumes.

Di Tran, a devoted family man himself, understands the joys and challenges that come with raising children. He and his wife, Vy Truong, have three sons and are constantly learning and growing as parents. They firmly believe that raising children is both a divine blessing and a significant responsibility that requires their utmost dedication.

The story of the Beshear family serves as an inspiration to all, emphasizing the importance of leading by example. As governors, both Steve and Andy Beshear have demonstrated their commitment to serving the people of Kentucky with integrity, compassion, and a genuine desire to make a positive impact. They have worked tirelessly to create opportunities, improve education, and enhance the overall well-being of their fellow Kentuckians.

Di Tran and Vy Truong have closely followed the Beshears’ journey, recognizing the significance of their father and son duo in shaping the future of Kentucky. They have long admired the Beshear family’s unwavering dedication to public service and the strong moral compass that guides their actions.

In a wonderful turn of events, Di Tran and Vy Truong had the privilege of meeting both Steve and Andy Beshear during the campaign for Andy’s second term. The meeting was a heartwarming occasion, as Di Tran expressed his deep appreciation for the Beshear family’s values and how they have influenced his own approach to parenting.

Di Tran and Vy Truong firmly believe that the key to raising children who embody kindness, empathy, and intelligence lies in living by example. They understand that their actions and words have a profound impact on their children’s development and future. Witnessing the remarkable journey of the Beshear family has reinforced their belief in the transformative power of leading by example.

As Di Tran and Vy Truong continue their own parenting journey, they draw inspiration from the admirable Beshear family. They strive to instill similar values in their own children, fostering a sense of responsibility, compassion, and commitment to making a difference in their community.

The story of the Beshear family, with their remarkable father and son duo as governors, has left an indelible mark on the proud state of Kentucky. Di Tran and Vy Truong stand as witnesses to the power of living by example and are grateful for the opportunity to meet the duo during Andy Beshear’s campaign for his second term. Their encounter has only deepened their admiration for the Beshear family and reaffirmed their dedication to raising children who will make a positive impact on the world, just like the remarkable father and son serving as governors in the great state of Kentucky.

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Kentucky Implements Stricter Policy for Car Registration: ITINs No Longer Accepted

Viet Bao Louisville, KY - Car Registration with ITIN
Viet Bao Louisville, KY - Car Registration with ITIN

Introduction:

Kentucky has recently implemented a more stringent policy regarding car registration and ownership, causing significant concerns among certain communities. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) has announced that Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITINs) will no longer be accepted for car titling and registration in the state. Instead, the only approved documents for these purposes are a Kentucky Driver’s License number, a Social Security Number, Visa, or Green Card. This change has raised questions about its impact on immigrant communities and the potential consequences for car owners who rely on ITINs.

Controversial Policy Change:

Previously, Fayette County in Kentucky was one of the few regions that allowed ITINs to be used for completing the car titling and registration process. However, the KYTC has decided to enforce a new policy, discontinuing the acceptance of ITINs. This decision has been met with criticism, particularly from individuals and organizations who argue that the new restrictions disproportionately affect immigrants and foreign nationals who do not possess Social Security Numbers.

Challenges for Immigrant Communities:

The exclusion of ITINs from the list of acceptable documents for car registration and ownership has raised concerns among immigrant communities in Kentucky. ITINs are tax processing numbers issued by the Internal Revenue Service for individuals who are ineligible for Social Security Numbers. They are widely used by individuals who are legally residing in the United States, including students, researchers, dependents, and spouses of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents.

Impact on Car Dealerships:

Local car dealerships, such as Galaxy Auto Sales, have expressed their surprise and disappointment at the sudden policy change. Many of these dealerships serve a significant number of buyers who rely on ITINs for their car purchases. In fact, it has been reported that approximately 30% of monthly car sales in such dealerships are made to buyers who use ITINs. This policy shift not only affects car dealerships’ revenue but also places them in a difficult situation, as they may have to repurchase vehicles sold to individuals using ITINs.

KYTC’s Justification and Lack of Clarity:

The KYTC spokesperson, Naitore Djigbenou, has defended the decision, claiming that ITINs were never intended for identity verification due to the potential for fraudulent use and the inability to verify them through the Cabinet’s automated vehicle information system. However, specific details regarding the timing of the policy change and the associated statute remain unclear. Requests for clarification on these matters have gone unanswered, leaving many stakeholders searching for answers.

Unintended Consequences:

Advocates for immigrant rights and equal justice have raised concerns about the narrow list of acceptable documents and the potential unintended consequences of the policy change. They worry that individuals who wish to purchase vehicles but are not drivers themselves may face difficulties. Additionally, in the event of a collision involving a registered vehicle, the change could complicate matters for law enforcement officers trying to enforce the law and ensure that all vehicles involved have proper registration and insurance.

Enforcement and Future Implications:

The enforcement of the new policy means that individuals using ITINs for car registration and ownership can now face citations for failure to transfer vehicle ownership. While the Kentucky State Police and local law enforcement agencies do not specifically target this issue during routine traffic stops, it may come to light if individuals are pulled over for expired registration or other related violations. This raises concerns about the potential risks associated with driving without proper registration and title, as well as the potential consequences for affected individuals.

Conclusion:

Kentucky’s decision to no longer accept ITINs for car registration and ownership has sparked controversy and drawn attention to the challenges faced by immigrant communities. The exclusion of ITINs from the approved list of documents for these

REFERENCES

https://www.kentucky.com/news/politics-government/article44119413.html

https://www.lex18.com/news/lex-in-depth/new-rules-for-vehicle-titling-registration-in-fayette-county-have-big-impact-on-itin-users

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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.