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Community Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH Drop the ME and focus on the OTHERS Guiding Lights: A Journey of Courage, Compassion and Faith Small Businesses Vietnamese

Tam V. Ho: An Emblem of Heroism and Triumph in the Face of Adversity

As the sun rose on February 23, 2024, it was not just another day for Di Tran, the president of the New American Business Association Inc. Today marked a pinnacle moment, a culmination of years of advocacy for Senate Bill 14, a landmark piece of legislation set to revolutionize the beauty industry in Kentucky. This bill, tirelessly revised over three years and led by the dedication of Kentucky State Senator Reggie Thomas, has seen countless meetings and discussions across all committee levels. It stands today, passed unanimously in the Kentucky State Senate, as a beacon of progress and unity.

In the shadow of this legislative victory, Di Tran stands with an emotion that transcends words, a gratitude that encompasses his faith and love for God. On this momentous day, he shares the spotlight with an American and Vietnamese hero, Tam V. Ho, whose story is a testament to the spirit that Senate Bill 14 embodies.

Tam Ho’s tale is one of profound bravery and selflessness. As COVID-19 swept the globe in March 2020, he was amongst the first, if not the only, nurse to walk into the storm as healthcare facilities cautiously reopened. With the pandemic raging, Tam faced a personal crossroads: his daughter’s wedding was on the horizon. With a father’s love, he chose to advance the wedding, ensuring he could witness the milestone, all the while preparing for what he considered might be a final act of service to his community.

Tam Ho’s decision to continue working amidst the pandemic was akin to signing a life-risking contract with fate. While doctors maintained a distance, Tam was in the trenches, mere hands away from those afflicted by the virus. His courage during those uncertain times became a silent legend, known by those who witnessed his dedication firsthand.

Di Tran, standing beside Tam Ho on this historic day, reflects on the courage and the journey they shared. Both men, united by their Vietnamese heritage and their American dreams, have made indelible marks on their community. As Senate Bill 14 now moves to the Kentucky State House of Representatives, it carries with it the spirit of every nail technician, every entrepreneur, and every student who seeks safety, education, and a place in this high-demand industry.

This bill, a first of its kind, championed by the Asian community and specifically by Asian Nail Technicians, represents more than just reform; it is a narrative of empowerment, of the right to work and learn in a safe environment. It signifies a future where the beauty industry in Kentucky is not just seen as a workforce area but as a field of professional artisans equipped with the knowledge and protocol to thrive safely.

Today, as Di Tran celebrates this legislative milestone, he does so with a heart full of pride for being in the presence of a hero like Tam Ho. It’s a story of two men, from different walks of life, who faced adversity head-on, not just for their own sakes, but for the betterment of all. The passage of Senate Bill 14 is not just a triumph for the beauty industry; it’s a triumph of the human spirit—a spirit embodied by Tam V. Ho, a man who prepared to give everything for his fellow Americans.

On this day, we not only acknowledge the passage of a bill but the passage of a torch—from one hero to another, from one generation to the next. It is the story of Di Tran and Tam Ho, a narrative that will inspire countless others to act with courage, to advocate for change, and to live with a selflessness that defines true heroism.

PS: Dr. Tam V. Ho is an esteemed professional with a PhD in Chemistry, reflecting a profound level of expertise and analytical skill. His multidimensional career spans healthcare and community service, underpinned by a deep commitment to public health and education. As a Licensed Practical Nurse, he has demonstrated extraordinary courage and dedication, particularly noted during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Complementing his scientific acumen, Tam’s wife is a distinguished linguist, fluent in English, French, and Vietnamese. Her educational background in the French system in Vietnam has equipped her to serve as a cultural and linguistic bridge. Her proficiency in Vietnamese literature and her work as a translator for the Vietnamese government underscore a rich engagement with language and communication. Together, they form a remarkable duo, contributing to their communities through a blend of scientific knowledge, healthcare dedication, and linguistic talent.

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Community Leadership Development Small Businesses Workforce Development

GLI and Di Tran: Pioneering Inclusive Growth in Louisville’s Business Landscape

In the business corridors of Louisville, Greater Louisville Inc (GLI) stands as a beacon of innovation and inclusivity. This Chamber of Commerce, with its unwavering commitment to promoting an inclusive economic ecosystem, has caught the attention of many, including the dynamic Di Tran, president of the New American Business Association Inc.

GLI: Leading by Example

GLI has long been a pillar of support for businesses in Louisville and beyond. Their endeavors range from offering business support services to ensuring fairness in business growth, with a vision always leaning towards inclusivity and fairness. It’s this commitment that has positioned GLI as not just an organization but as a catalyst for change in Kentucky’s business community.

Di Tran: A Synergy of Vision and Passion

Di Tran’s association with GLI is more than just participatory; it’s symbiotic. As a Vietnamese immigrant who faced the challenges of establishing a business in a foreign land, Di recognizes the value of platforms like GLI. Their support for businesses, big and small, and their dedication to fostering growth is what drew Di closer to GLI’s mission.

With a personal story marked by resilience and ambition, Di, who now helms a series of successful Asian-owned businesses, sees GLI’s vision and his personal mission aligning seamlessly. He not only appreciates GLI’s contributions but also collaborates actively with its Education and Workforce Development Committee.

The 10% Advocacy: A Shared Dream

The mutual respect between GLI and Di Tran becomes even more evident in their shared objectives. Di’s advocacy, ensuring a 10% representation of immigrants, especially those grappling with English as a second language, echoes GLI’s broader inclusive goals. It’s not just about representing a minority; it’s about amplifying the voices that often remain unheard.

GLI, with its steadfast commitment to diversity, finds in Di Tran an ally who embodies the very essence of their vision. Together, they’re not just addressing an oversight but pioneering an inclusive economic transformation in Louisville.

Crafting a Collaborative Future

The alliance between Di Tran and GLI underscores the transformative power of collaboration. By bringing to the fore the unique challenges and contributions of immigrant entrepreneurs, they’re paving the way for a Louisville where every business voice, regardless of its origin, is valued.

Elevating GLI’s mission through real-life examples like Di Tran’s journey offers a testament to their overarching goal: a business ecosystem that’s diverse, inclusive, and thriving. With GLI’s visionary approach and Di Tran’s fervent advocacy, Louisville is set on a trajectory of not just economic growth but inclusive prosperity.

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Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH Drop the ME and focus on the OTHERS Guiding Lights: A Journey of Courage, Compassion and Faith Immigration Leadership Development Small Businesses

Delighting Donut Devotees: How Gaby Shanklin’s ‘Lil Shanklin’s Donuts’ is Set to Take Over Louisville

A good donut can indeed transform an ordinary day into an extraordinary one – a sentiment shared by many, including Di Tran, the president of New American Business Association Inc. His recent interest was piqued by Lil Shanklin’s Donuts, a vibrant and promising venture by Gaby Shanklin, which with his endorsement, shows immense potential to become a regular feature at Louisville Beauty Academy.

Gaby Shanklin, a passionate baker since her teenage years, has always been fascinated by the art of baking. Her early entrepreneurial journey began by creating Latin desserts, selling homemade treats to friends and family. However, it was her discovery of mini donuts during the 2020 pandemic that truly ignited her business journey and led to the birth of Lil Shanklin’s Donuts.

Lil Shanklin’s Donuts, a home-based/mobile donut shop, specializes in delightfully creative mini donuts for every occasion. It is her ability to infuse joy into each piece that has caught the eye of many, including Di Tran. Recognizing the unique potential in Gaby’s venture, Tran foresees a promising future for these mini marvels.

With Tran’s endorsement, there is growing anticipation that Lil Shanklin’s Donuts could soon become a regular feature at the Louisville Beauty Academy. This venture would provide staff, students, and visitors with a delicious, bite-sized pick-me-up, perfect for those busy days of learning and creativity.

From vending events to the Jeffersonville Farmers Market and private event catering, Lil Shanklin’s Donuts has been delighting people with its charming presence. With the potential opportunity at Louisville Beauty Academy, it is set to expand its reach further.

Di Tran’s support underscores what Gaby’s loyal customers already knew – her mini donuts are a culinary marvel, both in terms of their aesthetic appeal and their scrumptious taste. A small but mighty delight, Gaby Shanklin’s mini donuts are proof that size does not define taste, and every little piece can offer a sizable amount of joy.

As Gaby prepares to potentially enter this new chapter with Louisville Beauty Academy, she carries with her the shared sentiment of all those who have tried her mini donuts: amazement at just how good a donut can look, and taste! The success story of Lil Shanklin’s Donuts serves as a testament to the idea that, with passion, creativity, and a little help from unexpected quarters, a simple donut can become a symbol of joy, success, and community spirit.