Tag: Rotary Club of Louisville

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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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Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH Early Childhood Education Immigration Leadership Development Self-Improve

Di Tran’s Memorable Encounter with Baseball and Umpire Tom Hallion

Introduction:

On May 25, 2023, at the Woman Club of Louisville, the Rotary Club of Louisville hosted a special meeting featuring a distinguished guest speaker: Tom Hallion, a renowned Major League Baseball umpire. Among the attendees was Di Tran, CEO of several small businesses, including the Louisville Beauty Academy, Louisville Institute of Technology, and MiaHire.US. As an almost 30-year immigrant to the United States, Di Tran had little exposure to baseball, making this encounter with Tom Hallion a significant learning experience.

The National Pastime and Tom Hallion’s Legacy:

Baseball, often hailed as the national pastime in America, carries deep cultural significance within the country. With its roots tracing back to the mid-19th century, baseball has become synonymous with teamwork, competition, and fair play. As Di Tran engaged with Tom Hallion, he discovered the sport’s rich history and its connection to American values.

Tom Hallion, an esteemed MLB umpire, boasts an illustrious career and is widely respected within the baseball community. Known for his competitive nature and winning mentality, Hallion has officiated numerous high-profile games, including World Series and All-Star Games. Even at his current stage in life, Hallion’s energy and dedication remain as vibrant as ever.

The Impactful Statement on Family:

During the Rotary Club meeting, Tom Hallion shared a poignant and relatable sentiment about the role of family in his life and career. Reflecting on his journey from the minor leagues to the big leagues and back, he acknowledged the unwavering support of his loved ones. Hallion emphasized the significance of his family’s presence during both the highs and lows of his umpiring career.

As Hallion spoke about his emotional connection to family, Di Tran experienced a powerful moment of resonance. The umpire’s admission that his wife and children stood by him during difficult times struck a chord with Di Tran’s own journey as an immigrant entrepreneur. It highlighted the importance of having a strong support system during challenging moments.

A Touching Tribute to Wives:

Tom Hallion took a moment to acknowledge and appreciate the often overlooked contributions of wives in the lives of umpires and, by extension, all individuals pursuing their passions. He expressed admiration for the unwavering dedication and support his wife and countless other wives provide, acknowledging the sacrifices they make behind the scenes.

For Di Tran, this tribute resonated deeply, prompting him to applaud along with the rest of the crowd. It served as a reminder of the often underappreciated role that spouses play in the pursuit of dreams and goals. Di Tran was moved by Hallion’s genuine and heartfelt expression of gratitude towards these unsung heroes.

Conclusion:

The meeting between Di Tran, CEO of various small businesses, and renowned MLB umpire Tom Hallion at the Woman Club of Louisville proved to be an eye-opening experience. As a newcomer to baseball, Di Tran was introduced to the sport’s cultural significance and gained insights into Tom Hallion’s accomplished career. Hallion’s emphasis on the importance of family and his heartfelt tribute to spouses left a lasting impression on Di Tran, serving as a poignant reminder of the support required to navigate life’s ups and downs.

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Community Corporation Small Businesses

Di Tran, CEO of Viet Bao Louisville, Delighted by First Turn Club Experience at Churchill Downs on “Champions Day

On May 3rd, 2023, the “Champions Day” at Churchill Downs was a day to remember for Di Tran, the CEO of Viet Bao Louisville, and his wife Vy Truong. The couple has been attending the event for the past few years as members of the Rotary Club of Louisville, one of the largest Rotary Clubs in the world.

This year’s event was especially memorable, as they were introduced to the brand new First Turn Club facility. The service was exceptional, with all-inclusive food and drinks throughout the event. The spacious dining area was a welcome addition, providing a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all attendees. The proximity to the horses was a highlight of the day, allowing viewers to have a close-up view of the majestic creatures as they raced and walked by. The beautiful backdrop of the Twin Towers of Churchill Downs made for some stunning photo opportunities, adding to the already memorable experience.

The weather on this day could not have been more perfect, with a cool breeze, blue skies, and the sun shining. Di Tran was especially thrilled by the excitement of the races, almost winning the trifecta twice, missing by only one horse. The energy of the crowd was electric, and the day was filled with joy and laughter.

After the difficulties of the past few years, Louisville is finally seeing a return to normalcy, and the beauty of traditional horse racing culture is back with a renewed sense of energy and betterment in all facets. As a member of the Louisville community, Di Tran is grateful for this sense of hope and optimism.

As CEO of Viet Bao Louisville, Di Tran is also grateful for the opportunity to attend and share his experience with readers. The Rotary Club of Louisville and Churchill Downs deserve special thanks for hosting such an exceptional event. Di Tran and Vy Truong are already looking forward to next year’s Kentucky Derby and can’t wait to experience the magic once again.

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Community Leadership Development Self-Improve Workforce Development

Serving Others and Growing Together: Di Tran Reflects on the Power of Rotary Club of Louisville Projects

Di Tran, the CEO of Di Tran Enterprise, has built a successful business that includes Louisville Beauty Academy, Louisville Institute of Technology, and other small businesses. As an author of “Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERS” and soon to be released “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH,” Di Tran has made serving others a central theme in his work and personal life. Recently, he reflected on the Rotary event fundraising efforts and expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve others through the Rotary Club of Louisville projects.

Vy Truong – Di Tran’s Wife

The Rotary Club is a global organization that is dedicated to promoting peace and improving communities around the world. The Rotary Club of Louisville is one of the largest Rotary Clubs in the world, with over 350 members, and has been serving the community for more than 110 years. The club is committed to making a positive impact in the community and beyond, with initiatives that focus on education, health, and community development projects.

The Rotary Club of Louisville has undertaken numerous projects over the years, including the Rotary Promise Scholarships, which provide tuition-free enrollment at Jefferson Community & Technical College to qualifying graduates from two high schools in the Jefferson County Public School system. The scholarships are designed to motivate students to be academically successful in high school and improve the college-going rate. Another project is the Rotary Youth Leadership Academy, which provides scholarships for students to attend a three-day leadership program.

Dr. B, Vy Truong and Di Tran

The club also recognizes unsung heroes each year by honoring one senior from each public, private, and Catholic high school for their school and community volunteer work. They also award two Unsung Heroes students a $2,000 renewable scholarship to a local four-year college that is matched by most of the institutions. In addition, they support various community projects, such as Repair Affair, which mobilizes resources and volunteers to make repairs on homes owned by low-income homeowners who are elderly or disabled.

On an international level, the Rotary Club of Louisville contributes annually to Rotary International’s 32-year-long campaign to eradicate polio in the world. They also partner with other Rotary Clubs in the U.S. or abroad to support various projects, such as providing clean water, working septic systems, kitchen gardens, and instruction on recycling and environmental protection in eight isolated schools in a mountainous area of Colombia.

March 27th at Waterfront Botanical Gardens! – Fundraising

Di Tran, at 40 years old, is grateful for the opportunity to learn and serve others through Rotary projects. As a young CEO compared to many of the other leaders and successful business owners in the Rotary Club of Louisville, he recognizes the importance of the Rotary Club’s values of truth, fairness, goodwill, and friendship. He believes that serving others is the true meaning of life, and he strives to instill this value in his work and personal life.

The fundraising event that Di Tran reflected on was a recent Rotary Club of Louisville initiative that aimed to raise funds to support various community and international projects. The event took place at the Waterfront Botanical Gardens and included the opportunity to attend in person, buy raffle tickets for a chance to win an amazing trip, or bid on online auction experiences. The fundraising event was a way for Rotary to raise funds to help others, and Di Tran is blessed to be part of such an important effort.

Di Tran believes that being around the “have done it” and weekly reminding himself of the Rotary mission, such as “is it the truth, is it fair to all concern, will it build goodwill and better friendship, and will it be beneficial to all concern” Rotary four-way test, has helped him grow each day. He wishes to teach his kids the same values, and he feels grateful to be part of the Rotary Club of Louisville’s efforts to serve others and make a positive impact in the world.

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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.