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IMPORTANT: Census 2010
LACS in conjunction with LANA (Laotian American National Alliance) is stressing the importance of every Laotians being counted in the 2010 Census; together both organizations are attempting to have April 3 and April 4 set aside as Census Days, where anyone who needs help to fill out the Census forms can go to their local temples, churches or social service agencies for support. Many of the Laotians in the community and across the nation are unaware of the importance of being counted in the Census; many programs can be created for the Laotians in need of assistance, but only if it is known that there is a larger population of Laotians in America. We urge all Laotians to recognize this very important function and participate in getting the Census filled out and returned for your family and other Laotians in the community.
HAPPENINGS:
Secretary of State Jesse White was honored at a Post-Birthday Celebration on August 6, 2009 at The Chandlers Banquets at 401 N. Roselle Road in Schaumburg, Illinois. The honorable Jesse White, as many of you know, is a very big supporter of the Lao Community and it was a very special way to show him our gratitude for his support. Khamphoui Singvongsa, Jesse Le and Contessa Robins from LACS attended the dinner and it was a very nice event.
Asian Festival was held on September 5, 2009 at 132 S. Grove Elgin, IL from 11am-10pm. Thavone Nyatso attended and had a booth to pass out information on the services LACS provided.
Lao Community Annual Picnic was held on Sunday September 20, 2009. The picnic was held again at Bunker Hill Forest Preserve, and this year we had little problem with everyone finding their way. A large spot was reserved this year to host the picnic and we were fortunate that a lot of the community could participate. Many people brought a dish to share with everyone, and those that could not share food brought a donation to the LACS. Needless to say, there was plenty of good food and laughter to go around.
At the picnic we honored Souma Phosaraj for all of his years of service to the Lao Community through volunteer work. LACS was also presented with an Award from the office of Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas; Pat was slated to attend the picnic and present the award, but through unforeseen circumstances was unable to make it to the event to present the award.
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LANA
The Laotian American National Alliance (LANA) is the premier resource and advocacy organization in the United States who strives to cultivate the strengths and leadership of all Laotian Americans comprising of the diverse ethnic communities from Hmong, Iu-Mien, Khmu, Lahu, Lao, Tai Lue, Phu Tai, Tai Dam, Tai Phuan and other descendants from Laos who make up the dynamic, collective Laotian American community.
The mission, of the Laotian American National Alliance, Inc. (LANA) as a national organization, is dedicated to advancing the social, and economic well-being of Laotian Americans in the United States through civic participation and public policy advocacy.
To fulfill its mission, LANA has established the following goals:
- To advocate for social justice, equal opportunity and fair treatment for all multi-ethnics from Laos;
- To promote civic participation, education, and leadership;
- To develop a new generation of non-profit, public sector, and corporate leaders.
- To advance coalitions and community building;
- To increase funding support for Laotian Community Based Organizations (CBOs) and Faith Based Organizations (FBOs).
- To foster cultural heritage.
Also, LANA held a teleconference on September 22, 2009 in which it was unanimously voted that Khamphoui Singvongsa serve on the board of directors and at the same time become LANA board chairman. This is an awesome opportunity and Khamphoui Singvongsa will now be serving the Laotian American Community on a national level. Khamphoui Singvongsa and LANA board plan to reorganize and restructure LANA during his tenure of administration and leadership. Please visit www.lana-usa.org to learn more about LANA.
LACS Annual New Year’s Eve Fundraiser
LACS will be holding it’s annual New Year’s Eve Holiday Party/Fundraiser on Thursday, December 31st. Official start time is 6:00 pm—1:00 am, dinner starts at 7:00pm. Tickets are $45 in advance/$50 at the door for adults, $30 in advance/$35 at the door for children aged 3-12. There will be a cash bar, cultural performance, dancing and great raffle prizes.
Music will be performed by Chicago Band.
Free parking available just south of restaurant on a first come, first served basis.
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