5th Annual Charity Ball
Ambassador Sichan Siv and 2004-2005 LAS President Ann Rithmyxay converse behind the intricate fruit carving table
LAS Natasinh Dance Class practicing before the event, led by teacher Nina Siharath
LAS Natasinh Dance School performing Houaphone Blessing Dance
L to R: Arianna Pathammavong, Jennifer Nguyen, Stephanie Nguyen, Merlena Kenson, Indy Malaythong
Music by Fisheye
Music by Noumkhousonh
Traditional Lao Instruments
LAS Natasinh performing the lum Salavanh dance
L to R: Melanie Mey, Melanie Kenson, Sara Phouangphet, Tila Malaythong, Mollie Pathammavong
Dance Teacher Nina Siharath and Costume Seamstress Pikul Kongpachit
Just a small sampling of Laos' many ethnic groups, depicted in a Fashion Show.
Among the invited VIPs were long time sponsors of LAS’s Educational Award Ceremony and scholarship program. LAS would like to thank the Ken Lee Foundation, UPS, and Mr. Voranath Chanthavong, owner of NKK Design. All have been generous sponsors over the years. LAS would also like to thank the other new and returning sponsors for this year, Chick-fil-A, Wal-Mart, and Swift Atlanta. For full sponsors and donors, please download the program book below.
Ambassador Sichan Siv talking about his life and book, "Golden Bones."
The night was made more special by guest of honor, former Ambassador Sichan Siv. He gave a speech about his life struggles and triumphs, and reminded all in the audience to “Never give up hope.” Ambassador Siv was also kind enough to sign copies of his books to all that asked, and also pose for photos.
The slogan, “Pride in our Heritage and Passion for our Future,” was coined by current president of LAS, Mrs. Daravanh Cookie Morey, when she joined the board in the spring of 2004. Mrs. Morey, as chair of this year’s event, along with all the volunteers and performers again showcased the Lao spirit and passion on center stage. Many thanks to all who came out to support the LAS Ball, with a special note to Mrs. Malay Surivong Wu and family, one of the first presidents of LAS, who traveled all the way from Shanghai, China to be at the event.
Vannasone Keodara from VOA presenting in both English and Lao
LAS President Daravanh Cookie Morey
L to R: LAS Board, Noy Lounnarath, Fawn Boutviseth Nguyen, Dao Malaythong, Kim Ting Pathammavong, Neo Douangpraseuth
If you weren’t able to attend the 5th Annual Laotian American Society Charity ball this year, you missed the cultural performances by the adorable LAS Natasinh dance troupe, the traditional music by the khean (bamboo pipe) piper and friends, American rock songs by Fisheye and Lao music by Noumkhousonh, a fashion show featuring a host of models dressed in the Laotian traditional tribal costumes, an inspiring speech by Ambassador Sichan Siv, the smiling faces of LAS board and members greeting you at the door, and another fun night with friends and family. With that in mind, we hope to see you at the next LAS event!
Money raised from this annual ball, along with sponsorship money, will go towards LAS’s scholarship program, which gives grants to promising Laotian-American college students, as well as awards to grade school children. Laotian-American students still rank behind other minorities in terms of high school graduation rates, and that translates into harder opportunites in the future for personal and career advancement. Other proceeds go towards funding and sustaining LAS’s youth, senior, and other community programs. To see previous year’s recipients visit the EAC portion of our site. LAS is a non profit organization comprised of volunteers.
Recap Contributed by:
Amphone Sengchanh
Event Photography Provided by:
www.b-vong.com
Program Book Download (PDF)
Sponsors, Volunteers List, Event Guide
The Laotian American Society (LAS) is a non-profit organization committed to being a resource to all people of ethnic origins native to Laos or have ties to Lao culture and heritage in order to improve their quality of life, education, health, and welfare by organizing and sponsoring educational, cultural, social, and other related activities as well as promoting communication and education about issues related to the Laotian community.
Download a Membership Application and Volunteer with LAS: We are looking for serious, selfless people willing to work together to fulfill our dreams of a united and growing Laotian American community in Georgia and abroad.
LAS Membership Form
Laotian American Society (LAS)
P.O. Box 48432
Atlanta, GA 30362
www.lasga.org
info [at] lasga.org
