Tag: Louisville Kentucky

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Self-Improve Workforce Development

An Inspiring Encounter at the Rotary Club of Louisville: Di Tran and Angela Billings

At the recent Rotary Club of Louisville meeting, members and guests were treated to a remarkable presentation by Angela Billings, a U.S. Air Force veteran, public relations expert, and author of Command the Crisis: Navigate Chaos with Battle-Tested Public Relations and Communication Strategies. Among the captivated attendees was Di Tran, a Vietnamese immigrant, entrepreneur, and community leader who has frequently expressed his deep admiration for America, referring to the country as “heaven on earth.”

Angela Billings is a true embodiment of resilience and dedication, having served in high-profile positions during her military career, including as a spokesperson for the U.S. Air Force in Washington, D.C., and international posts in Germany, Korea, and Afghanistan. On September 11, 2001, she was in the Pentagon when American Airlines Flight 77 crashed into the building. Angela’s harrowing experience that day gave her unique insight into managing crises, not just in theory, but under unimaginable circumstances. Her talk, “Under Attack,” conveyed her hard-earned lessons in crisis management and offered valuable insights into navigating communication during critical moments. As she shared her story, Di Tran listened in awe, deeply moved by her courage and the pivotal role she continues to play in public service.

For Di Tran, meeting Angela was a profound experience. As they shook hands, he expressed his admiration, sharing, “I only watch people like you in movies. You’re the first person I’ve met who lived through the 9/11 attack at the Pentagon, and now you’re a communications professional who is still serving, making an impact in the Kentucky Senate.” Di Tran’s respect was evident as he recognized Angela not only as a veteran of military service but also as a mentor to many, a crisis expert, and a key player in Kentucky’s political landscape. Her current role as director of communications for the Kentucky Senate Majority allows her to continue her legacy of service, this time on behalf of the Commonwealth.

The significance of their meeting was heightened by their shared commitment to recent legislative progress. Di Tran, an advocate for inclusivity and workforce development, has been an enthusiastic supporter of Senate Bill 14. This landmark bill, passed earlier this year, expands the Kentucky Board of Cosmetology to include diverse representation, promotes multilingual testing, and underscores the importance of inclusivity within the state’s beauty industry. For Di Tran, who has been deeply involved in this advocacy, Angela’s presence underscored the power of determined individuals working within government to effect change.

Angela Billings’s strength and composure, qualities honed through years of experience and tested under unimaginable circumstances, are a source of inspiration for leaders like Di Tran. Her willingness to share her story and her insights into crisis communication serve as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by public servants. In Angela, Di sees a reflection of his own values—a commitment to service, the courage to face adversity, and the passion to improve the world around them. Both Angela and Di Tran share a profound belief in the promise of America, each working in their way to uphold its ideals and elevate those around them.

This powerful connection at the Rotary Club serves as a testament to the enduring strength of service and resilience. As Di Tran often says, “America is heaven on earth.” Meeting Angela Billings, a hero in her own right, only deepened his belief, reminding everyone present of the extraordinary individuals who stand ready to serve and protect, in times of peace and crisis alike.

Louisville Beauty Academy: A Beacon of Inclusivity and Excellence, Celebrating Spectrum News Coverage and the Unanimous Passage of Senate Bill 14
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El Crisol Divino: La Historia de Di Tran y el Papel del Supermercado Guanajuato en Tejer el Sueño Americano

En el corazón de Louisville, Kentucky, se desarrolla una historia que entrelaza las hebras de cultura, cocina y comunidad: una narrativa que pertenece a Di Tran, un local vietnamita con un profundo amor por la comida latina. Es una historia que no solo explora la cocina, sino también el lenguaje universal de las sonrisas, compartido a través de culturas, y el poder de la comida para unir a las personas. El viaje de Di Tran refleja el de muchos inmigrantes, comenzando con su llegada a EE.UU. en 1995 sin habilidades en inglés, comunicándose a través del lenguaje internacional de gestos y buena voluntad. Como él, dos trabajadoras del Supermercado Guanajuato #2, con su limitado inglés, transmiten calor y bienvenida a través de sus sonrisas y frases entrecortadas. En su intercambio de orígenes, “vietnamita” se encuentra con “guatemalteco”, y en sus sonrisas, una comprensión compartida.

La esencia de la historia de Di Tran es la fusión, una fusión que trasciende la simple mezcla de tradiciones culinarias. Su uso innovador del pan plano, que recuerda a su infancia en Vietnam, cortándolo en tiras similares a fideos o envolviéndolo alrededor de repollo finamente cortado, crea un delicioso tapiz de sabores y texturas. Sin embargo, la fusión va más profundo, simbolizando la mezcla armoniosa de diferentes antecedentes y experiencias que contribuyen al vibrante tapiz de la sociedad estadounidense.

Louisville, conocida por su encanto sureño, se ha convertido en un lienzo para esta hermosa convergencia de culturas. El amor de Di Tran por el pan plano recién salido del horno, envuelto con carnes al estilo asiático, crea una experiencia compartida que resuena no solo con él, sino con todos los que llaman hogar a Louisville. Es una ciudad donde el calor de su gente, ya sean nativos o inmigrantes, crea un ambiente tan nutritivo y reconfortante como la comida que comparten.

A través de los ojos de Di Tran, la belleza de Louisville brilla no solo en sus paisajes, sino en los rostros de su gente: cuidadosos, amorosos y que abrazan la diversidad. El espíritu de la ciudad hace eco de sus recuerdos de una infancia en una cabaña de barro donde todos eran cuidadosos, prueba de que, independientemente de nuestros orígenes, la experiencia humana, en su esencia, es compartida. La vida de Di Tran y su comida son testimonios del hecho de que la fusión no se trata solo de crear nuevos sabores; se trata de forjar nuevas comunidades, nuevas conexiones y un nuevo entendimiento de lo que significa estar en casa.

PD: En una mezcla armoniosa de compasión y belleza, Di Tran fundó la Louisville Beauty Academy. Arraigada en Kentucky y floreciente con dos campus, esta universidad acreditada por el estado se ha convertido en un faro de aprendizaje para una comunidad diversa. Se erige como una institución orgullosa donde los inmigrantes latinos, asiáticos y europeos, entre otros, reciben no solo educación sino un lugar para florecer. Esta academia celebra el espíritu de inclusividad y empoderamiento, encarnando la dedicación de Di Tran a proporcionar oportunidades para todos, uniendo las hebras de la belleza divina en el sueño de cada individuo.

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Community Immigration

A Tapestry of Dreams: Louisville’s Immigrant Luminaries Celebrate Unity and Achievement

As the sun set on Louisville, Kentucky, a remarkable group of thirteen individuals gathered, each a beacon of hope and a testament to the city’s vibrant diversity. This assembly was not just a celebration of personal triumphs but a powerful homage to the spirit of immigration that has, and continues to, enrich the United States.

In a modest yet welcoming room, voices mingled in a symphony of accents, each telling a story of resilience and determination. From the Jewish heritage of Siera to Daniela’s roots in Panama and Mexican culture, from Erica’s Haitian pride to Oumie’s Gambian strength, and Sarah’s U.S. upbringing, the group embodied the world in microcosm. Hadiya brought tales from Pakistan, Karina shared memories of Guatemala, Eva brought the warmth of Mexico, while Amos, Stanley, Brother Di, Edward, and Mandela added the perspectives of Burundi, Haiti, Vietnam, Kenya, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, respectively.

Each member of this diverse group carried a narrative marked by the trials of their immigrant journeys, yet their stories were underscored by a common theme: a profound appreciation for the freedom found in their adopted homeland. They have seized every second to not only savor their liberties but also to exert themselves tirelessly in contributing to the nation’s prosperity.

Their contributions are manifold — uplifting hundreds and thousands around them through education, business, and service. PhDs, entrepreneurs, and community leaders sit side by side, united by their extraordinary achievements and driven by a mission to serve.

In a moment of reflection, Di Tran, a man whose journey from Vietnam to the upper echelons of education and entrepreneurship embodies the American dream, was moved to express a heartfelt sentiment: “Lord of God, you are beautiful.” This statement was a quiet acknowledgment of the divine grace he sees in the collective success and unity of his peers.

The gathering was not just a meeting of minds but of hearts — a testament to the city of Louisville’s growing power and potential. It is a city buoyed by the spirit of its people, and as Di Tran and his companions have shown, it is a city on the cusp of an even brighter, stronger future.

Through their lives and work, these thirteen individuals demonstrate that the strength of a community lies in its diversity and its unyielding capacity for kindness and support. Louisville stands as a beacon of what can be achieved when we embrace our differences and work together towards common goals.

As we celebrate these stories of strength and respectability, we recognize that this is the essence of America’s promise — a promise kept alive by the indomitable spirit of its immigrant sons and daughters.

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Community

The Heartwarming Tradition of Bánh Trưng and Bánh Tét at Saint John Vianney in Louisville, Kentucky

In the heart of Louisville, Kentucky, amidst the chilly embrace of winter, a warm and vibrant tradition flourishes, echoing the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam. This tradition centers around “Bánh Trưng” and “Bánh Tét,” two quintessential Vietnamese dishes that symbolize the essence of Tết, the Lunar New Year celebration. Far from their tropical homeland, the Vietnamese community at Saint John Vianney, a Catholic Church with a significant Vietnamese congregation led by Father Anthony Chinh Ngo, keeps this tradition alive with love, dedication, and a deep sense of community.

The Tradition of Bánh Trưng and Bánh Tét

Bánh Trưng and Bánh Tét are more than just food; they are embodiments of Vietnamese culture and history. Bánh Trưng, a square-shaped glutinous rice cake, symbolizes the Earth, while Bánh Tét, its cylindrical counterpart, represents the moon. Both are meticulously wrapped in banana leaves and filled with mung beans and pork, requiring hours of preparation and cooking. These culinary delights date back thousands of years, linked to the legend of Lang Liêu, a prince who offered them to his father, the King, as a symbol of his respect and filial piety.

A Bridge Between Cultures

In Louisville, Kentucky, the making of Bánh Trưng and Bánh Tét has become more than a culinary endeavor; it’s a bridge connecting generations and cultures. At Saint John Vianney, this tradition is not only preserved but celebrated with enthusiasm and love. The elders in the community, often grandparents, gather together to share their knowledge and skills with younger generations, ensuring that this precious cultural heritage is not lost in the snows of Kentucky but thrives in the hearts of the Vietnamese diaspora.

A Labor of Love and Community Spirit

The preparation of Bánh Trưng and Bánh Tét for Tết at Saint John Vianney is a labor of love and a testament to the community’s solidarity. Hundreds of volunteers, from seasoned cooks to eager novices, come together in the church’s kitchen to prepare thousands of these cakes. This massive undertaking is not just for celebration but also for a noble cause: fundraising to build a new church. The process, from sourcing ingredients to the communal cooking that often lasts through the night, embodies the community’s dedication to their faith and cultural heritage.

Caring, Sharing, and Teaching

The tradition of making Bánh Trưng and Bánh Tét is imbued with the values of caring, sharing, and teaching. It offers a moment for the community to come together, share stories, and pass on traditions. It’s a time when love is not just felt but actively expressed through the careful preparation of food, symbolizing hope, renewal, and gratitude. Children learn the importance of cultural identity and the joy of giving, as the sales from these cakes go towards a communal goal that benefits all.

Conclusion

In the snowy state of Kentucky, far from the lush landscapes of Vietnam, the tradition of Bánh Trưng and Bánh Tét during Tết is a vivid reminder of the enduring spirit of Vietnamese culture. At Saint John Vianney, this tradition is a beacon of love, community, and cultural pride. It demonstrates how traditions can transcend borders, bringing people together in celebration, service, and unity. As the Lunar New Year of the Dragon dawns in 2024, the community’s efforts embody a profound expression of love: for tradition, for culture, and, most importantly, for each other. Through these endeavors, they are not just building a church; they are fortifying the bonds that connect them, ensuring their heritage continues to flourish for generations to come.

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Community

The Waste Reduction Center: A Convenient Solution for Louisville Residents to Dispose of Bulky Waste

Viet Bao Louisville, KY - Landfill and Waste Management
Viet Bao Louisville, KY - Landfill and Waste Management

As a citizen of Louisville, Kentucky, you may never have to worry about large waste or dump when running your business, doing construction, or moving. This is because the city provides a convenient solution in the form of the Waste Reduction Center.

The Waste Reduction Center is a facility where Louisville/Jefferson County residents can dispose of a wide range of waste items, including tires, household bulky waste, appliances, electronics, tree limbs and stumps up to three feet in diameter, unbagged yard waste, construction debris, and furniture. The center is located at 636 Meriwether Avenue, with the entrance on Bland Street.

Residents can drop off up to four household bulky items per day at no charge. However, any bulky loads or drop-offs exceeding four items will be charged according to the fee schedule, and cash is the only accepted form of payment. For example, residents can drop off up to four passenger tires, one appliance, or one large household item such as a mattress, box spring, sofa, or chair, at no cost.

The Waste Reduction Center is open Tuesday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. It is important to note that trucks with trailers must arrive at least 15 minutes before closing. Also, the center’s hours may be affected by certain holidays such as New Year’s Day, MLK Jr. Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, July 4th, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas.

If you have a bulky load or drop-off that exceeds four items, you can still dispose of it at the Waste Reduction Center, but fees will apply. Cash is the only accepted form of payment for these fees. Also, it is important to note that if you have lawn maintenance equipment, you can recycle it at the center in partnership with the Metro Air Pollution Control District. Rebate vouchers are issued as proof of recycling, which participants can use to receive the larger bonus rebate instead of the standard rebate when the vouchers are used for electric or human-powered equipment.

Overall, the Waste Reduction Center is a convenient solution for Louisville residents who need to dispose of bulky waste items. The center accepts a wide range of items and provides a convenient location for residents to drop them off. If you have any questions about the Waste Reduction Center or the items that it accepts, you can contact the facility directly or visit their website for more information.

The Waste Reduction Center is a valuable resource for Louisville residents to dispose of bulky waste items in a convenient and environmentally-friendly way. With the ability to drop off items such as furniture, appliances, electronics, and construction debris, the center provides an easy solution to waste disposal needs. It is important to note that residents can drop off up to four bulky items per day at no charge, but fees will apply for larger loads or drop-offs exceeding four items. Additionally, participants in the lawn care program can receive bonus rebates when they recycle their equipment at the center. It is worth mentioning that residents can also schedule a waste pickup at their address for even more convenience. With these options available, Louisville residents have a range of convenient and eco-friendly solutions for their waste disposal needs.

REFERENCES

https://louisvilleky.gov/government/public-works/waste-reduction-center