From a Hard Working Immigrant to U.S. Citizen

Some people had waited a very long time for this moment. The moment they finally became a U.S. citizen! They may have studied English for many years just to pass either the oral or written exam, which most native-born citizens take for granted. It is a new beginning and one of the biggest days of their lives.

I noticed thousands of people forming long lines of traffic as I sat in my car looking for parking at the L.A. County Fairgrounds/Pomona Fairplex. Last week, I had the opportunity to attend a U.S. Citizenship ceremony, which is also known as a Naturalization ceremony.



Even though I became a naturalized citizen six years ago in order to serve in the Peace Corps, today’s ceremony was still as emotional as it was my very first time and bought back some mixed feelings of happiness and uncertainty. I am sure the new naturalized citizens echo and shared similar feelings and emotions as they swore in for their citizenships.

For those of you who have not attended a Naturalization ceremony, allow me to share with you how it works. We started the ceremony with Oath of Allegiance, which was guided by the judge and followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Then, there was a message by the President, Barack Obama! Unfortunately, it was a recorded speech and not in person. However, the message was clear and very touching. I started to drop some tears as I was watching the president talk on the big white movie size screen and I also noticed others in the audience wipe their tears from their cheeks too. I have to say, it was a great speech!



It seems that the highlight for most new citizens is when they swear in and sign their Naturalization certificates! It seems all their troubles wash away and they start over in the land of freedom, called America! Most importantly, they can VOTE! Since they can vote now, many fill out their registration form and passport application. The ceremony took less than two hours. At the ceremony there were post office staff and passport agency representatives available to provide answers to any questions or concerns that the new citizens may have in regards to passports and voter registration. I heard from one of the post office staff that there were about 7, 000 people in the building who received their naturalization certificate that day! The large room was filled with new citizens from Mexico, the Philippines, China, Vietnam and Korea, just to name a few.



I watched them wave the small size flags in their hands as they embarked on a new journey in America as U.S. citizens. Some shared the tears and joy with their friends and family whom were standing patiently outside and inside nears the ceremony area. To most of them, it was their first step towards achieving the American dream.

Congratulation to new citizens!

UNSPOKEN Conference (Refugees and Human Rights), Utica, NY

It was an amazing to hear personal stories from current and former refugees in Utica, NY and the surrounding area. I was inspired by them and empowered to make a difference. Overall, my presentation went well. However, I wish I had more time visiting Utica. It such an interesting city especially so open and welcoming to refugees!


More pictures and updates on the conference coming soon!

Peace Writer; Every Woman Deserves...(VOF Week 4)

I am interested in being a Voice of Our Future (VOF) correspondent for World Pulse because of my personal experience as a child refugee, where I witnessed war and ongoing violence, firsthand. Being a refugee of wars where human rights were violated, showed me the value of human rights and opportunities such as education that only peace can provide. My ultimate goal is to make a contribution toward resolving international conflicts and the suffering caused by these conflicts to women throughout the world. The VOF aligns with this goal.

My experience as a refugee led me to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Community Studies at UC Santa Cruz. This program focused on social change and social justice. I learned how to assist diverse cross-cultural individuals and organizations through advocacy and how to educate the public in regard to immigration and domestic violence issues. My first encounter working with women’s conflict issues was when I volunteered with a non-profit organization called Committee Against Anti-Asian Violence in the Bronx neighborhood of New York City. Under the umbrella of the Women Domestic Worker project, I supported the media committee, assisted with donor communications, and fund-raising, and participated in various outreach campaigns. Through these experiences, I became committed to resolving conflicts and improving the lives of women. The opportunity to be a part of the VOF would allow me to continue my commitment as an advocate for women.

I continued to help women when I volunteered for two years in the Peace Corps in Costa Rica. During that time, I lived in a small village where I designed, implemented and facilitated grass roots projects. These projects included leadership workshops, girls’ soccer teams and women’s health and nutrition classes. Through sport activities, workshops and arts, the women in my village were able to express their emotions and cope with their experiences as victims of violence and sexual abuse. I appreciate the valuable experience I gained and the strong personal relationships I developed with the women’s group in my village. Through these projects, I was able to connect and understand their struggles, pain and sorrows. I am passionate about working and promoting social change and justice for women and children at the international level, which aligns with VOF.

Due to my Peace Corps experiences, I chose to pursue a Global and International Studies Master’s degree at UC Santa Barbara. The program emphasized living and working in a wide variety of cross-cultural contexts and focused on NGOs and using the bottom-up approach to addresses social justice issues globally and domestically. This opportunity provided me the skills and knowledge to confidently work towards conflict resolution. Working with VOF would provide me an opportunity to continue to put my passion and skills into practice.

I am interested in the VOF because I want to share the innocent voices of women who are victims of human rights violation. In the past, I have had the privilege to write about and to share stories of women; it has been rewarding to witness the impact that these stories have on others. I want to use my writing skills and passion to make change in the world by telling their stories and to inspire others to take up peace making efforts. I recognize the value of compelling writing to help people to understand, care, support and get involved in peace making efforts and to improve the rights of women.

Now that I am fortunate enough to be in a position to help others, I would like to continue promoting social change at the international level with an emphasis on women and human rights. Both my own experience as a refugee, along with the opportunities I’ve been so fortunate to have received, have grounded me and helped me understand the importance of giving back. I earnestly want my work to make the world a better place, one life at a time. I believe the VOF would enable me to further develop my communication skills and ability to serve as a voice for those women who are working hard to effect peaceful change in their conflict-ridden environments.


READ MORE..

2011 Voices of Our Future Applicants, World Pulse

I am a working progress! So I applied for the 2011 Voices of Our Future Applicants, World Pulse. As an Applicant, I write weekly article to complete the task. I am not sure if I will make the cut but I am excited to gain new skills, make friends I have never met across the globe and an opportunity to excel in my writing! Check out my first assignment!

Hope; Citizen Journalist

Three years ago, I started a blog, titled “Curious and Determined.” The purpose of this blog was to share updates with friends and family on humanitarian projects, interviews and experiences. I conducted research on returned refugees in Cambodia for my Master’s degree. However, as I was deep into my research, I realized returned refugees, particularly women and girls, are suffering from many problems such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and discrimination in their village upon resettling back to their home country, Cambodia. Their stories echoed. I wanted to do something about it. I started to share their stories on my blog.

A few months ago, I fell upon PulseWire’s website. I started to read stories and profiles of women across the globe who are doing amazing things with limited resources! Then it hit me, these women inspired me and gave me hope again to do something about women and girls whom I left behind in Cambodia two years ago.

I am extremely excited and grateful for the opportunity to use these amazing tools (Web 2.0) in order to make social change happen! I am most excited to learn new skills from other “Voices of Our Future” candidates and I would like to expand on my social networking community in the media. I look forward to share my experiences and meet new PulseWire friends. I hope to exchange ideas and receive feedback from my fellow PulseWire users.

Through using Web 2.0, I believe these tools will bring many solutions and opportunities for the women’s empowerment movement, globally. For example, up until a few months ago, I had no idea that there are women who have similar interest as me and are either already established into their projects/programs or just started to make a difference in their community and across the globe. The Web 2.0 brings women with similar interests and goals together in order to make social change not only locally but also globally. This tool is also giving women an opportunity to share their ideas and the confidence to ensure that those ideas will be put into action! Most importantly, through PulseWire providing a safe place for women to express themselves and to write their opinions and experiences, allows other like-minded people to learn and provide feedback. Through this social networking comes a strong community of women who are empowering each other, encouraging each other and working together for social change and social justice!

The Web 2.0 empowers me to believe in myself especially expressing myself through writing. Since I recently found my new passion for writing, I hope to excel as a writer and learn new skills as a journalist. Through these new skills, I hope to continue to help women and girls in Cambodia as well globally by being their voice and sharing their stories to the rest of the world.

Million of Gallons Sewage Were Spilled, Beaches in San Diego are closed!

The San Diego power outage is no longer a problem for residents; however, the beaches are closed. As the weekend approaches and the summer has come to an end, many locals and tourists are looking forward to a relaxing time at the beach this weekend. Tourists from the Midwest are excited to get some tanning in before they head back home. Local fishermen are hoping to catch some fish. However, due to Thursday's massive power outage, more than a million gallons of sewage spilled onto San Diego's popular beaches.

The lights were back as of Friday morning in sunny San Diego. Residents are back to work, children are out on the street (they get a day off from school), and businesses are back up and running! The electricity was accidentally cut by one of the workers around 3:30 p.m. Thursday in southwest Arizona. Millions of Southern California residents were affected by the power outage. Those who were stuck in the freeway either had no cell phone service or did not have access to the radio due to the power failure. In other words, they had no idea what was going on. Some believed it was another terrorist attack since 9/11 is just few days away. One main resource that America depends on is their electricity. Without it, San Diegans are hopeless and vulnerable. Others thought the power outage was due to over use of air-condition since it was in the high 90s and low 100 degrees in the beach town!

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Woke up to beautiful red wood trees!

Woke up to beautiful red wood trees! But had the worst Thai food ever in Crescent City! The road trip continues up North!

My husband and I stopped in Crescent City area to camp. The camp site was amazingly beautiful! We were surrounded by rivers and red wood trees! The ranger kept the bathrooms nice and clean! I had a nice warm shower last night but a cold one this morning because the heater is broken! They are fixing it at this moment...

We took a detour to Smith river with nice trail to hike. It was so refreshing with clean air! We stopped in Crescent City for lunch. I was surprised with so many Thai restaurants to choose from! Unfortunately, we ended up eating at the worst Thai food that I ever had! Their peanut sauce was full of salt! The BBQ chicken was not even BBQ! It was not cook but taste like microwave heated chicken! I learned my lesson!

We are continuing up North along the 101 highway....Stay tune!

Russian River; The Northern California Getaways!

My cell phone has no service, on most mornings it is overcast, and there is no Internet service. Besides the downside of a rural remote small town atmosphere, there are a lot to do at the Russian River! I have been staying at the Russian River since Monday. So far, I learned to river kayaking by myself, practiced yoga in an outdoor surrounding nature and took a lovely beach hike to visit the seals! I did all of these activities with just less than two days!

Since the place I am staying is not too far from the ocean but it is on the river, sometimes the fog hides the beauty of the area. However, once the fog slowly disappears, I enjoy looking at the cows across the river and appreciate the beautiful green trees and colorful flowers that this place has to offer! There are not too many options when its come to places to eat. I had clam chowder bowl at a small cafe along the ocean with an amazing view! The chowder was a bit watery but it was good! On a side note, I miss sf's chowder because it was thick and delicious!

So far, what I like about this place is that I can kayak on a calm water and peaceful environment! Once in awhile I get to see birds, seals and cows! Yesterday there was a friendly seal that was following us. It would pop up on the river surface every now and then. It would look at you in the eyes and then go back under the water! It was so cute. I felt we had our own entertainment on outdoor water! Other than that, I almost fell in the river while getting out of the kayak after parking it! I found out that I love river kayaking because it works my stomach and arms! I also love the Russian River so far!


P.S. I am off to Bodega Bay to have some delicious seafood for lunch! :)

Giant "Pho Bowl" in San Francisco!

When I am on an adventure and travel to a new place, I enjoy trying out new things. I guess you can say I'm still curious about life! Today, I tried the "Pho Challenge" in SF and the soup bowl was the size of me! :) I could of have taken a quick dip in it! Instead, I share it with three other wonderful Khmer friends. Is like sex & city except pho-licious and good Khmer girls companies! Yummy and fun time in the big city!

Today highlight: I am bless with great friends; no matter where I am & there I am...:) Their kindness, generosity & hospitality are beyond words can describe...

West Coast Road Trip Summer 2011

As I am done packing (camping items, food, clothes & books on cd) in my compact car, I am looking forward to my first West Coast Road Trip! I will be starting in San Diego and hope to end up in Portland. Planning to take the 101 freeways and the 1 highway along the California coast...From the big city to small town stops, I'm ready to camp out and stay on friends' couches. Let the adventure begin! Hello road trip!

Edens Edge -Taste of Arkansas’s Country in Sunny San Diego, CA

What is a better way to spend your lunch than with three lovely young talented Arkansas native country band singers? The KSON 97.3 radio station sometimes introduces new singers/bands to the city of San Diego. This past Thursday, they had the great honor of meeting and introducing Edens Edge to their listeners. Through their kindheartedness, the band performed live at the House of Blues (HOB) in downtown San Diego, CA for listeners and fans from all ages.


Edens Edge came a long way from small town Arkansas to perform in San Diego, one of the world's paradises. The American country band is composed of Hannah Blaylock (lead vocals), Cherrill Green (harmony vocals, mandolin, banjo, and guitar) and Dean Berner (harmony vocals, guitar, and dobro). Through their personal gift, they create a unique sound as well as their compelling vocal blend. People in the audience fell in love with their charms, lovely southern style, and beautiful voices! They also recruited new fans that didn't like country music before until they saw them perform live at the HOB!

Their first single, "Amen," was released in April. The song is catchy, cute, and profound especially with Hannah's clear strong voice! Hannah co-wrote the song from her small town experience and said, "We all grew up in small towns and in Arkansas there is a church on every corner. Amen is a fresh depiction of a small town love story." They sure did show a thing or two to the city fans about love and small towns in their songs. Edens Edge signed a record with the Big Machine last year. This summer and fall they are on the road with some of America's greatest country singers and bands including, Brad Paisley, Reba McEntire, and The Band Perry! Check out Edens Edge band website to see if they are going to hit your town or city this summer/fall!

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Interview with the Director and Co-founder of Self-Advocacy for Growth and Empowerment (S.A.G.E): From a Passionate Idea to a Successful Business

“My mission is to empower individuals regardless of their disabilities, race, gender, religion, etc. to strive for a better quality of life. Everyone deserves a chance at greatness. Given my family’s history and the adversities that we had overcome, I was able to accomplish many feats. Without assistance from others and having positive role models and amazing mentors, I would not be where I am today.”

The eldest of six children, Kwin Khieng was the first person in her family to attend and graduate from college. She studied at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and majored in Biology. Growing up as a Khmer American in a small town (Lake Elsinore) was confusing for Kwin. “Our parents barely spoke of the past and/or our country’s history, so relating to peers or other Khmer Americans was somewhat difficult. If my mom ever spoke about Cambodia, she only told stories of being in the refugee camp and how we fled to America. But she barely told us why and what exactly happened.”


In high school, like most Cambodian child refugees growing up in America, Kwin was in search of her identity and craved to belong to the dominant American culture. She shares, “I wanted so badly to be accepted by my American counterparts that I did not care to speak of my Khmer culture or where I came from.” She felt isolated and alone because it was rare to find Khmer friends that cared about schoolwork and had the desire to make a difference in the community. Kwin stayed focused on her academic studies and was involved in other extra-curricular activities such as Associate Student Body and Advance Placement classes. Due to her interests and passions, she found herself surrounded by non-Asian Americans.

Like most college students, Kwin discovered herself and her true calling when she was enrolled in college. She realized that she was not alone in her plight. She made friends with other Cambodian students who not only excelled in academia but also had a vast knowledge of her country’s history and culture. She shares, “During my freshman year of college, I met up with other Khmer students who had the same passion that I did. It was enlightening and refreshing to meet these smart and passionate Khmer students. Immediately, they took me under their wings and guided me throughout college. They were my friends away from home.”

Due to her personal experiences and a sense of belonging, Kwin got involved with the Khmer student organization called United Khmer Student (UKS) at UCLA. Through the UKS, she participated in a Khmer Culture Show, mentored Khmer students from a nearby high school, and helped to create a sense of Khmer community on campus. These activities made such a huge impact on her that she wanted to make a difference as part of her life’s work. Kwin continues to be involved in the UCLA community as an alumnus.

Today, Kwin runs and operates a behavioral management program in the Anaheim area, which assists adults with developmental disabilities. The program offers education including self-help skills and vocational skills. This program not only helps adults with disabilities, but it also provides job and internship opportunities for Khmer students who are interested in becoming behavioral psychologists or pursuing other majors related to the field. Kwin has come a long way to be where she is today, operating her own business. Her involvement at UCLA in the Khmer club and other community service organizations has greatly influenced her to give back to others.


Note: Part II of the in-person interview is in the video editing process. Check back soon!


Where were you born? Where are you based?
Kwin: Like many of my Cambodian peers, I was born in a refugee camp bordering Thailand and Cambodia called Kao-I-Dang. I am currently residing in Anaheim, California.

What is the name of your organization? What does it stand for?
Kwin: S.A.G.E. that stands for Self-Advocacy for Growth and Empowerment. It is a community-based management program.

What is your mission and purpose for S.A.G.E?
Kwin: My mission is to empower individuals regardless of their disabilities, race, gender, religion, etc. to strive for a better quality of life. Everyone deserves a chance at greatness. Given my family’s history and the adversities that we had overcome, I was able to accomplish many feats. Without assistance from others and having positive role models and amazing mentors, I would not be where I am today.

Who benefits from your organization?
Kwin: Our organization currently provides services for adults with developmental disabilities. Those services range from job development/ placement, art therapy, music therapy, basic daily living skills, mobility training, community services, etc.

What makes it different from other organizations that already exist with a similar purpose?
Kwin: Our program uniquely customized a plan to fit the individual. Whatever their goals in life may be, we will find the resources to aid that individual in accomplishing their dreams and aspirations.

Do you have a board?
Kwin: Yes, our board currently consists of the president, vice president, secretary, and treasurer.

During the process to start your organization, how much time did it take before it started functioning/running?
Kwin: Two years. Initially, we were not able to secure any business loans from the banks due to the fact that the new business/program was a start-up. Most banks were not approving FBA loans for new businesses. My partner and I scraped and saved just enough to cover the first month of expenses (rent, payroll, utilities, etc.). We did not have an office for the first three months. Since S.A.G.E. is a community-based program, we utilized the city’s resources as much as possible such as community centers, libraries, etc.

What are some of the steps you took to start your organization?
Kwin: We had to write and submit a (20 pg) proposal to the Regional Center of Orange County (RCOC), a non-profit agency that provides reimbursement for the services we give to our clients. A panel of individuals from the RCOC would read the proposals and select the best program design and send a letter to the prospectors to come in for an interview. Once the live interview is conducted, the RCOC makes their final decision and sends you a letter of acceptance. Before submitting the proposal, you have to provide proof to the RCOC that you have a business and have enough funding to sustain the program. Initially, we had a partner who had a business for over 20 years and could provide the financial backing if needed. Eventually, our partner left and we had to start everything from scratch. But out of 10 different organizations that submitted a proposal to start a program, we were one of the lucky three selected to open a program.

Do you need a license or certificate to be qualified as an organization?
Kwin: Yes, we are license through the city of Orange since our office is located there. Our program is under a corporation, which is also licensed through the state of California.

Where do you receive your funding?

Kwin: We receive reimbursement from the department of developmental services (the state). Regional Center is the non-profit agency that sends us referrals of different clients.

Do you accept donations or services for your organization? If so, what do you accept and not accept?
Kwin: We accept donations of in the form of currency, time, ideas, and job for our clients.

If I want to donate to your organization, what do I need to do to make this happen?
Kwin: Call or email us at 714.931.9242 or legalipp@gmail.com.

Is your organization a tax-exempt 501 (c)(3)? What does this mean for your organization?
Kwin: Our organization is not a 501 (c ) (3) nonprofit. However, the agency that refers clients to us is a 501 (c ) (3). This means that we cannot give tax exemptions if somebody donates money. However, we will be exploring our own tax exemption later this year so we can expand our services to individuals with developmental disabilities.

As a corporation, are there certain standards you need to follow?
Kwin: The standards that we need to follow consist of keeping meticulous records of all our financial affairs, maintain a high level of professionalism, and convey this professionalism to our clients and employees. We also need to maintain strong relationships with everyone in the industry so we can all help each other increase the quality of programming in this field.

What advice would you give to aspiring people who want to start their own non-profit or corporation?
Kwin: I would have to say that if what you are conceiving will make you happy and you are not risk averse, then do it. However, remember that you need a business plan and a backup plan, otherwise you may see yourself sidetracking instead of staying the course.

What are your goals and hopes for your organization for the next five years?
Kwin: Over the next five years, we hope to be Los Angeles County, Riverside, and Ventura. The expectation is that our program will eventually expand to a level where we will be able to serve children and then help reform the school system with regard to their special education programs. We also want to lead the pack in researching positive outcomes with technology and individuals that have disabilities.

Where can I find more information about your organization?
Kwin: You can find more info on the website, which is currently under construction.

Thailand Elects First Female Prime Minister, Yingluck Shinawatra

Thailand elected its first female prime minister today, Yingluck Shinawatra, as the ruling Pheu Thai Party claimed a historic victory. This is a significant moment in Thailand's history, to have a woman prime minister. It is a new chapter for Thailand.

Is Yingluck Shinawatra ready to be Thailand's first female prime minister? Unlike her brother, Thaksin Shinawatra, the former prime minister in exile overseas, the 44-year-old former beauty queen and businesswoman has no political experience. Many Thai voters are very proud and are in love with Ms. Yingluck's charm and beauty. Meanwhile, others are questioning her ability to lead the country, especially considering the controversial legacy of her brother, Mr. Thaksin.

Mr. Thaksin is in exile overseas due to allegations of corruption. Some media reports also allege that innocent people were killed under his rule. While he was in office, there were allegations that his government committed human rights violations against its own people. Despite these allegations, Mr. Thaksin still runs a multimillion dollar phone company in Thailand. His youngest sister, Ms. Yingluck, was a businesswoman in his telecommunications empire. There is also a belief by some that Ms. Yingluck is as a puppet taking orders from her brother and allowing him to call the shots from overseas.

Despite her brother's history, she is her own woman. Thai residents are making history in their country and the rest of the world. This election creates hope for positive change and women's rights. This is a huge step for Thailand and all Southeast Asian countries. This history marks a new beginning for women and girl empowerment in Thailand. It is interesting that more and more developing countries, such as Costa Rica, have female presidents (Laura Chinchilla), yet the U.S. has never elected a women for president. Should the U.S. elect a woman president for the 2012 election?

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Cervical Cancer Is the 2nd Leading Cause of Death Among Women

Imagine your daughter, sister, or close friend has recently been diagnosed with cervical cancer at age 19. She just graduated from high school with so much hope and so many dreams to accomplish. However, now that she discovered the heartbreaking news that she is dying from cancer, those dreams become dim and fade away, as she now has to contemplate how many more years she will live. Cervical cancer is the second leading cause of death among women globally.

According to Medicine.Net, cervical cancer is a result of "human papillomavirus (HPV) infections (due to) having many sexual partners, smoking, taking birth control pills and engaging in early sexual contact." In other words, habits that many women believe are good life choices, such as taking birth control pills to prevent pregnancy, may be a problem for them. This type of cancer is usually common among women between the ages of 35 to 55 years old. However, most recently, it has been more frequently diagnosed in women under the age of 20. It has even been detected in girls, as young as 11 years old.

Many women cannot feel the symptoms during the early stages of the cancer. In the article, "Top 10 Facts about Cervical Cancer," the author pointed out that women should be on the lookout for bleeding between regular menstrual periods or after sexual intercourse. For many women, once they discover they have cervical cancer, it is too late.

This is an urgent matter for women in regards to health internationally. Doctors are recommending women make appointments for regular pap tests and take two vaccine shots to prevent cervical cancer. However, the shot works best if taken before women become sexually active. The shot is not 100 percent guaranteed to prevent cervical cancer, but it is a strong deterrent.

At the moment, there are only three treatments for women who are already diagnosed. They have the option to have surgery, radiation therapy or chemotherapy. Meanwhile, girls and women from all ages are highly recommended to carefully watch their daily habits and take good care of their health. Women need to start caring for their body, mind, and health.

Jon Stewart Plays Soccer with the U.S Women's Team on ‘The Daily Show’

Recently, the Emmy Award winner based in New York City, Jon Stewart, played soccer with the U.S. Women's National Team. Stewart was obsessed with the magical goal that the U.S scored against Brazil; he recreated the biggest play for the U.S. at the 2011 Women's World Cup. Word on the street was that the comedian himself was once a star soccer player in college, until his injuries. It is no wonder; Stewart was so passionate about the game, especially the "injury goal" against Brazil.


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NBC's 'Today Show': Women’s Soccer Team, The New Heroes and Trendsetter

The U.S. Women's National Soccer Team may have lost in Germany against Japan for the 2011 Women World Cup in a shoot out. However, upon returning home, they received love and support from Americans. An interview with NBC's Today Show describes their true American spirits. These women are truly the new trendsetter, heroes, and winners in the eyes of Americans, no matter where they are from, their ages, or backgrounds.

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405 Freeway: 'Carmageddon' Changed LA’s Lifestyle...

When it comes to personal lifestyle, everyone has his or her own preference. In some parts of the world, biking miles to get to work or walking a few blocks to get food is considered normal. Meanwhile, in the fast-paced city lifestyle, as can be seen in Los Angeles, residents would rather sit in their cars, get stuck in the congested traffic for hours, and sing to their favorite song on the radio, while not moving an inch on the 405 freeway, than ride their bikes. Society is socially constructed to behave a certain way depending on the surroundings and environment. As far as the 405 freeway Carmageddon experience for LA residents, it changed their lifestyle, well at least for a weekend!


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Green Card Lottery; United States Almost Accidentally Lets in 22,000 Undocumented Immigrants…

To most Americans, winning millions of dollars in the lottery is a dream come true. However, immigrants have a similar dream, but instead of money they want a US Green Card. Millions of international people across the globe each year since 1990 enter to win a green card lottery. The US State Department (DOS) offers an opportunity for potential immigrants to obtain a Green Card, which grants permanent legal residence in the USA. This could be positive or negative depending on which side of the current immigration debate you are on.

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A Romantic Ocean Beach Anniversary; Grunion Style

It was midnight; we were driving from the Temecula area, on our way home to Ocean Beach, from visiting family. I was half asleep with lazy eyes, barley open. I was a little confused, waking up from a nap. I looked over to the driver side; there he was with baby blue eyes, dirty blonde hair and surfer body build, smiling kindly towards me. He said with excitement, "I have a surprise for you sleepy head!" My heart started to race with anticipation. "It is going to change your world," he continued. Just like that I was fully awake and curious of what the surprise might be!

It was 1:00am on a Sunday morning. This particular Sunday is not like any other Sunday; this day marked our one-year anniversary being married. Those baby blue eyes I woke up to are my husbands. We met in Costa Rica six years ago as Peace Corps Volunteers. On this special Sunday, he wanted to surprise me as a way to start out our second year of marriage together. I was excited and determined to find out the surprise, I do not want to miss anything that he had planned.

As our drive ended onto Sunset Cliff Blvd from the 8 west freeway, I thought we were going to head straight to our cottage studio; instead he took a detour towards Dog Beach. I continued to be curious and wonder what could this surprise be since it was passed midnight on a Sunday morning! He pulled up the car and parked. He smiled and repeated, "This is going to change your world." I began to ponder, "How is dog beach going to change my world? What a strange way to start my one-year anniversary celebration!" We got out of the car. I checked out the surroundings. It was full moon with a little light shining on us through the overcase sky. The sound of the waves crushing to the sand was calm, yet powerful, and overshadowed all of the other sounds that were trying to compete against it. I looked around, listened to the nature communicating and thought to myself, "I think I am falling in love with this romantic setting." A moment later, of course, as we were walking towards dog beach, I was a little skeptical. How romantic is dog beach? I continued to wonder, "What is it that my handsome husband has in mind for our one year-anniversary celebration at dog beach?"

As we were walking across the dry sand to the ocean, I noticed people with their flashlights and buckets, screaming and laughing their hearts out. There were between 5 to 10 people that we encountered. My husband stopped and turned over to me and asked with excitement, "Love, do you remember when I told you that there are fishes, the Grunion, that only appear on the beach between March and August during a full moon or a new moon? Well tonight it is your chance to witness the Grunion for the very first time!" I became sad, "Ok, my skeptical side was right! What is it about these fish that makes my husband so happy and excited that he wanted to mark the beginning of our second year of marriage with them?" Since we were already walking to the shore, I'll try to make the best out of the surprise.

We took out our cell phones since we didn't have a flashlight with us. As we approached the water, I noticed little silver fishes flopping their bodies around. It was like they were dancing the fish dance. I walked even closer to the wet sand. The wave crushed into the sand and when it pulled away from the sand, it left thousands of Grunions jumping and flopping around, on and in the sand! My heart beat fast with excitement and my mouth filled with smiles and then I began to laugh with joy. As I turned to my husband, he said, "See, I knew you would like this celebration. This is the beginning of our new year together. Happy anniversary love."

As we ran across the beach to the river mouth of the dog beach, I witnessed thousands of female Grunions digging by flopping their body through the sand making little holes. I asked my husband, "What are they doing?" He smiled and said, "They are mating! The female Grunion buries eggs under the sand more than 3 inches or so while many male Grunion flopped around touching her body of the female Grunion! This is how they make baby Grunion!" I was amazed how these interesting fish mate! There were more than four males Grunion to each female, now that is different!

That night, my husband was right, witnessing Grunion truly changed my world. This was the best one-year anniversary celebration ever! I was fortunate and glad that I had the opportunity to be a part of the development of Grunion along the Ocean Beach river mouth, on a calm summer morning, with my handsome husband, celebrating our one-year anniversary. We were a part of a history; we witnessed a new beginning as thousands of baby Grunions will be coming into this world. It doesn't take much to please me, especially if it is free and it is in our neighborhood.

Watching grunions lay their eggs in the sand is priceless.

Celebrating my one-year anniversary with my beloved, handsome, romantic husband and the grunion is priceless.

Walking on the beach under the moonlight is priceless.

Watching the Grunion was a symbol of the beginning of our second year of marriage as thousands of grunion buried their eggs under the sand so there could be future grunion. Hopefully our second year of married life will be filled with excitement, discovery, hope, surprises and many more experiences and memories to cherish together!

For our one-year get away, we did not need to go far. It was right under our nose the entire time here in our Ocean Beach neighborhood!

'Glee' Star, Cory Monteith, Receives High School Diploma at 29

As the American musical comedy-drama hit show Glee is preparing for its third season this fall, the star actor, Cory Monteith, is taking time to share his personal story as a troubled teen and how he has overcome many hardships in his life before the TV series.

The 29-year-old Canadian actor claimed that he is nothing like his character, Finn, in the hit TV show. He emphasized while growing up in Victoria, British Columbia, he felt like an outsider and had a hard time fitting in with the socially constructed society in high school. At the age 16, he dropped out of high school to support his bad habits of drinking and smoking pot. Cory remembers his addiction was so bad that it controlled the next three years of his life until he hit bottom at 19 years old. He recalled stealing a large amount of money from one of his family members and got caught for it. He had a choice to either turn himself in to the police or go to rehab. This was a turning point for the Canadian actor.

After getting himself cleaned up, Monteith moved in with a family friend and started rebuilding his life. He got a job at an acting studio, cleaning and running errands in exchange for acting classes. One day he was challenged to act in front of a camera and soon discovered his true calling. This spring, Cory finally received his high school diploma! Monteith felt good for the first time in his life receiving his diploma. Cory Monteith is sharing his struggles and pain growing up with addictions so that others like him can also overcome their weaknesses. Cory believes that there is hope and a true calling for everyone. They just need to be patient with themselves, have strong mind, believe in themselves, and surround themselves with people who care.

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Cameron Diaz, Justin Timberlake and Jason Segel! 'Bad Teacher' Hits Theaters Friday, June 24th

The sexy actress, Cameron Diaz is falling in love with her ex, Justin Timberlake, all over again! Well not in real life. It's in her new movie, 'Bad Teacher,' which opens in Theaters Friday, June 24th.

In the movie, the actress, who is best known for her performance in romantic comedies, plays a bad teacher. Other big names in the movie include Jason Segel, from the hit show "How I Met Your Mother," and singer Justin Timberlake. With the three of them in this comedy film, there are enough laughs to go around.




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Demi Moore shines a light on Nepal's Stolen Children

The CNN Freedom Project in partnership with the actress Demi Moore exposes victims of human trafficking in Nepal to tell a compelling story to the rest of the world. The documentary, "Nepal's Stolen Children" will premiere this Sunday, June 26, 2011 on CNN.

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Mike Mills' film: "Beginners"- Leave the Past and Mistakes Behind

Mike Mills, the director and writer of the film 'Beginners,' based the movie on his own personal experiences with his gay father. The movie sends the message that it is never too late to start your life again. Whatever your past may be, or the mistakes you had made, leave it behind and start with a 'beginners' mind and a fresh new life.

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Gather.com Freelance Writer!

Dear friends and followers, please help me jump start on my career as a freelance writer. Check out my published articles below. I write for Gather.com under their Entertainment section. I get paid on how many people view the article. Thanks so much for your help and effort. Happy Friday,

Yenly

Click on the article you want to read more.

Coldplay's New Release Song, "Every Teardrop Is a Waterfall"

'X-Men: First Class' - Hits Theaters Friday - Fiction Meets Realism

'America's Got Talent': Season 6-Audition on Youtube

'My Little Pony' Mimics Katy Perry's 'California Gurls' Music Video

Coldplay's New Release Song, "Every Teardrop Is a Waterfall"

The British Alternative Pop/Rock band, Coldplay, released a new song today, "Every Teardrop Is a Waterfall." It is now available on iTunes. It doesn't matter what kind of crazy world we live. As long as we have a favorite song to get us through the tough times we can jam out and cope with whatever life throws at us. Coldplay's new release just may be that song for many people.

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'X-Men: First Class' - Hits Theaters Friday - Fiction Meets Realism

The superhero movie, X-Men: First Class will hit the theaters this Friday. Tomorrow, America and the rest of the world will discover the history of the Cold War, Nazi Germany and the first Nuclear weapon discharge. With action, romance and self-discovery, X-Men: First Class will leave the audience to ponder for weeks.

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'America's Got Talent': Season 6-Audition on Youtube

America's Got Talent is looking for fresh new entertainment this summer, including singers, dancers, comedians and/or actors. It doesn't matter if you are 5 years old and tell jokes or 85 years old and break dance, they want talent! In partnership with YouTube, NBC network hopes to discover the future 2011 winner of Season Six.

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'My Little Pony' Mimics Katy Perry's 'California Gurls' Music Video

Katy Perry's 2010 hit single, "California Gurls" was recently re-made by horses. As cute as real California girls, the Equestria ponies and unicorns on the animated children's television series, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, had their own version of the music video.

READ MORE, CLICK HERE PLEASE..

Boun Loun- A Passionate Photographer and Graphic Designer

A native of Durham, North Carolina, Boun Loun, 27, began taking pictures when she was a sophomore in high school. Boun was the only and first Cambodian in her predominantly white community. While she was exploring her identity and trying to figure out how she fit in the society norm, Boun found true passion in many forms of arts and decided to put her energy in taking pictures. Like most artists, Boun sacrificed her time, energy and money in order to pursue her passion in photography, “I love to shoot all day, either I get paid for it or make it on my own. I love what I do,” she emphasized. These days, she is at Ocean Beach Starsbuck in San Diego, CA, a barrister, helping customers with their daily coffee wake up call. She is also a full-time stay-at-home mom. During her time off, Boun is a photographer and graphic designer. She has the passion for photography and works hard for it, “The most exciting part to me is when I am done with the photos and I hand it to the clients and they are very happy with the results. It is a great feeling when you know you make someone happy,” she said.

Are you a 100% Cambodian?
Boun: Mostly Cambodian, I have just a trace of Chinese and Vietnamese but mostly Cambodian.

Where were you born? Where are you based?
Boun: I was born in the Philippines and I am based out of San Diego, CA.

What kind of photography do you do?
Boun: I basically do everything. I do weddings, music, events, press reviews and family photos. Pretty much anything I can put my hands on.
What are you using to shoot with? Natural light or in studio?
Boun: I usually focus and capitalize on natural lighting.

When did you realize you wanted to be a photographer?
Boun: Pretty early on, I remember as a sophomore in high school. My dad took me to a college fair. We were discussing colleges and majors. Right away I wanted to be a photographer. To my father, coming from a medical background, was kind of hilarious to him. He thought I was just kidding. I still perused it and now he sees the work that I do. He respects it and accepts that is what I do and have passion for. I have always loved art. I started drawing in elementary school. I think it has always been in my blood any type of arts.

Do you remember the first photograph you took, which led you to become professional? What was the photo of?
Boun: My first paid gig as photographer, I would say it was a few years back. I did a high school dance team. It was a nerve racking. It was with a completely different age group, which was of high school girls. It was a bit off guard too because they wanted to be on the beach and not at the school. They wanted something more on location. However, it was a cool as well as a great experience and the excitement that came with it was a rush. They kept me on my toes. It was good to test the water my first time shooting professionally.

What would you say was your most embarrassing moment on the job?
Boun: In general, it is always nerve racking. Actually few weeks ago, I experienced my first embarrassing moment when my equipment failed! I was on a shoot and for some reason my memory card couldn’t read any of the images! Basically I lost the images! I had to take it to the camera shop. Lucky, I was able to recover all of them. If I couldn’t recover it, you don’t really know where to go from there with the clients. It teaches you to always come prepared and have a backup, i.e. bring a battery and extra card. It is always hard to have backup in this industry because the equipment is so expensive. If you have friends who are in the same field, it is always good to borrow or exchange equipment with them. You just have to always stay clam and stay professional at all time.

What would you say the coolest experience and most exciting part of your job?
Boun: I would say, when you are with a band you get to be on stage with them and catching the moment is the coolest experience. The most exciting part of my job, I would say looking back after I got my photos done and hand it to the clients. It is a great feeling to see their excitement in the final product. The most exciting thing to me is when you see the clients are just so happy with their photos that you shot and you worked so hard on the project. It is a great feeling when you know you make someone happy.

What would you say is the most challenging part of your job?
Boun: I would say one of the challenges, as a photographer is that I can’t always control the conditions. You can’t always control the time of the day or the sun. Things that I run into a lot are time conflicts. I always think that I am finished but I end up staying longer. The clients need to understand quality takes a lot of time. That is a downside.

I noticed you received your BA degree in Graphic Design and not photography?
Boun: I went to the Art Institute of Pittsburgh to receive my Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design. I actually do both photography and graphic design. To me, they really go hand in hand and complement each other. For example, if I need to do something graphically, I can use my own image through my own shooting. That is comforting because I can use my own image and work. I can offer a band by saying; hey I can do both your press photos and design your album cover. It is like the whole package but one person does it. Even though I do not have my degree in photography, I grew up using the camera and have professional experience. I am comfortable with the camera. The reason I got a degree in Graphic Design because it is more marketable.

When did you start your graphic design and photography company?
Boun: My business started while I was in college. I started with freelance jobs and slowly in 2007, I officially got my business license and website. Just recently that my business is starting to pick up through established clients. It is nice to build your clients. Then you can start doing their family and friends. I hope to look for clients that I can build on and lasting relationships.

What do you favor more? Photography or Graphic Design?
Boun: Its funny the other day, I was thinking what I like more? Sometimes I think I like photography more. Other times when I am working on a graphic design project, I think I like that more. To be honest, I love both them equally. They give me a different rush for different reasons. Being on the field shooting, you catch the moment. When you are designing something, it is like wow I created that appealing product.

What are your goals and hopes for the future for your company?
Boun: Ideally, I would like to continue with my own business or be a contactor for National Geographic or a huge band. I would love to shoot all day and either get paid for it or make it on my own. I love what I do. I get a rush out of it. I am in the process of shooting for a concert. The next big step is shooting for a big band. Right now, most of my clients are local. I meet them through Starsbuck. As much as I do not like waking up at 4:00am, it is a nice way to meet clients.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to get into photography?
Boun: If you have a passion for photography and art, it is a great job. It takes a lot of time unless you make it really big and become well established, it is a hard living. You really have to sacrifice especially it is hard on your family. But it is all worth it when you doing it at the moment and out in the field. I am always pumped. If you are willing to put some hard work into it and have passion for it, then I say go for it.

What is your favorite Khmer dish?
Boun: Well I can’t say I have a favorite, but I’m a big fan of a variety of stir-fry with white rice!

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2011 Kidney Walk & Update!

This past Saturday, I walked three miles along with some thousands other participants in the rain for the 2011 Kidney Walk in San Diego, CA. I had two weeks to meet my goal for the fundraising, which was $200. Within two weeks, not only I reached my goal but I also received extra funding from family and friends support and contribution towards the cause...

Aftermath of the International Conference in Montreal

I made it safe back to San Diego, CA from International Colloquium, “Cambodia, from then to now: Memories and Plural Identities in the aftermath of Genocide,” in Montreal, Canada. It was an amazing experience! I also met a lot of great academics and professionals who are involved with Cambodia both in the US, Canada, and elsewhere. I took video of my presentation and I am in the process of editing it. Please stay tuned........

Classical Khmer Dance in Montreal, Canada

Today, I had the great fortune to watch my very first ever Khmer Classical Dance live! It was even better that it took place in Montreal, Canada of all places! I just love the performer colorful dresses and outfits! They dance so beautifully and yet peacefully! It was like the Khmer Rouge regime didn't even existed for a brief moment. I was lost in their performance! Once the dance was over, we return our attention to the keynotes; Rithy Panh & Alex Hinton. Then follow by the documentary screening from both Paul Tom and Rithy Panh. I thought both documentaries were moving and yet got their message across.

I honestly cried three times watching "Le papier ne peut pas envelopper la braise" (Paper Cannot Wrap Ember). The reason is that the story was about prostitution in Cambodia. It showed the struggle and suffering of a life as a prostitute in Cambodia. I thought Rithy Panh did an excellent job on bringing the past, present and future of Cambodia in the film. I also noticed that the main character was a former child refugee who returned to her home country in 1992 when she was nine years old. This is actually align with my presentation on Saturday, May 7, 2011! Today was a great start of the conference! I am looking forward to many more speakers, presenters, documentaries, and arts from Cambodian all over the world as well as scholars in this subject matter!

The only down side I would have to say.....the screening was in Khmer and French. For those who do not understand Khmer or read French, seemed to be out of the loop. So I ended translating the dialogue and summarizing the stories to those who were curious.

I woke up in Montreal, Canada!!

As I am enjoying my fry crabs with noodle on the side for lunch, I realized I woke up in Montreal, Canada this morning!

I did not get to my friend's place until 1:30am eastern time. My flight got delay more than an hour due to the weather condition. It was good that we waited on the plane before we took off last night, especially after I heard a scary story from the person sat next to me! The native Canadian explained how he had an experience where one of the plane he was on, got hit by the thunder during a storm. It was so bad that his whole body flew up and land hard on the seat that his head got knock out and he passed out for a bit. Of course he is ok now. Great story to share before we were taking off on a storm!

My friend, the native Canadian French Cambodian has been a great host! Her mother and grandmother have been friendly and welcoming to me! They are amazed that I can speak perfect Khmer! I have been sharing my experience when I was in Cambodia while conducting my research for six months. Since they have not return back to their homeland for 30 years now, they seemed to enjoy the update and stories I shared. I was able to practice my presentation to them but in Khmer. This was a little difficult since I have been practicing in English.

The weather has not been nice to me this morning. It is actually overcast and some rainfall.

I am amazed of how my friend speaks four languages: French, Cambodian, and English & Spanish! I think most people here speak at least two or even three languages! Awesome!

Ten cups of Chinese tea later, I am ready to start my day in Montreal, Canada!

Weather Forecast: Montreal, QC

Flying to an International Conference in Montreal

As I am charging my laptop and waiting to be aboard from an hour delay flight, I am very excited to land in Montreal soil with just few hours to go!

It has been a long day of traveling. I left San Diego International Airport around 7:30am this morning. Although North Carolina is three hours ahead of California, I feel extremely tired! It is now 8:31pm eastern time and 5:31pm pacific time. Let me share with you that the entire time of traveling, I was on the go with the shape-shoes! I mean, I'm only allow the most half an hour between each flight! I honestly, thought I was going to miss my flight because they were late. Since I only have between 20 to 30 minutes to catch the next flight, I was late for this one. This is the last domestic flight before I head to Montreal, Canada! However, it got delay. So I guess it work out after all...

I have not explore Charlotte airport yet. Well I got a little rush and walk about an hour ago when I thought I was going to miss the flight. I had to run from one terminal to the next within 15 minutes! You see, I was not alone! I met a native Montreal, who happen to sat next to me from the last flight. We did not know that we are heading the same location until I saw her Canadian passport. So we rushed, ran and worried from one terminal to the next. Now, I have no idea where she is at. I guess I will see her again on the flight since we both are going to the same destination, Montreal. Boy, I gotta say, that was my work out for today! I actually miss yoga. I did not have time to practice yoga this morning. I'm a little tense. Well, I am off to checking in...Check back for an update when I land in Montreal, Canada!

International Conference in Montreal

As I am going over my one hundred pages Thesis, I realized I have less than 30 days to go before I present it at an International Conference in Montreal, Canada! Even though I had months to plan and prepare for it, I just got started! Yikes!

I have not been to Montreal. However, I heard great things about the city especially around the month of May. This is why hotels are getting so expensive! I guess as someone who just got her Master degree with no full-time job, can get a little intimidating. As I was trying to find a nice and affordable place to stay during my one week visit and present for the conference, I remembered hostel are more affordable than hotel. Even hostel are pretty pricey! I mean, for a one night in a hostel in downtown Montreal, we are looking around $56+! However, for a one night at a hotel is about $110+! Even though I bought my plane ticket to and from Montreal, I still have to figure out my lodging.....

Just my luck, I have a friend that I met while interning with the UNHCR two summer ago who is a resident from Montreal! So far, I just found out that I have a place to stay for at least most nights! For some nights, I will have to book myself for the hostels! So far, sound good...I just have to figure out transportation to and from the conference, where to eat and what to see!

Things I would love to see...

I am not a big fan of hockey but just for the fun of it, I actually would like to attend one!

Update on the International Conference: Cambodia, from then to now: Memory and plural identities in the aftermath of genocide



Montreal, Canada Here I Come!

DONALD JAMESON- Bumpy Development Road: Implications for US Interests

I am so honor that Don Jameson gave me the permission to publish his article that he wrote for the Asia Pacific Bulletin on Cambodia. This article was published March 15, 2011.

When US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton visited Cambodia in late 2010, she told senior Cambodian government officials "this does not look like the country I have been reading about in the press." Most first-time visitors to Phnom Penh would likely react similarly. The city hosts a vibrant society, with traffic-clogged streets, a proliferation of stylish restaurants and boutiques, and buildings under construction everywhere, many of them high-rise apartments and office blocks. If the visitor were to venture outside the capital, large-scale investment in infrastructure, especially roads and bridges, with construction underway on additional projects are what greet the eye. In addition, there are extensive land clearing projects underway for new plantations to grow rubber, palm oil, cashews and other tropical products, as well as new industrial sites springing up along main transportation arteries. In short, Cambodia is clearly a country on the move economically.

Having prepared for the visit by reading recent media coverage of Cambodia, much of it carrying headlines such as "The Beleaguered Cambodians," "Cambodia's Curse," and "Country for Sale," the majority of people would probably find themselves, like Mrs. Clinton, a bit confused. Many media reports revolve around how Cambodia is plagued by rampant corruption benefiting a wealthy ruling oligarchy and their crony capitalist friends, while much of the population lives in abject poverty. There is also much coverage about widespread human rights abuses, including the confiscation of land from small landholders for investment projects, often without adequate compensation. As a result, visitors are led to anticipate a culture of impunity that protects the rich and powerful while victimizing the poor and powerless. In addition, they would expect to hear about strict limits on freedom of expression and assembly, as well as frequent intimidation of politicians, journalists, labor leaders, human rights advocates and other critics of Prime Minister Hun Sen and his ruling Cambodian People's Party (CPP).

The truth is both of these contrasting visions are accurate and represent important aspects of the complex reality that is Cambodia today. In recent years, Hun Sen has consolidated power at the expense of a weak and fractured opposition and, since the 2008 election, enjoys a CPP supermajority in the National Assembly. This has allowed him to pass any legislation he desires as well as to take punitive actions, including withdrawal of parliamentary immunity from legislators who oppose him. As a consequence, Hun Sen now has virtually absolute power. He makes almost daily off-the-cuff speeches using colorful, and often demeaning, language to castigate his critics, both domestic and foreign. Additionally, he has cultivated close relations with China, Vietnam, and South Korea, which bankroll many of his development projects and provide political cover. These connections enable him to defiantly reject criticism of his authoritarian behavior by Western countries and the United Nations.

However, there is a positive side to Hun Sen's political dominance. He has imposed stability on a country that has experienced more than thirty years of turmoil and civil war. This has attracted the interest of international investors who see Cambodia as a potential new "Asian Tiger." Along with the ongoing activities of foreign aid donors and more than 2,000 non-governmental organizations, this has led to outside involvement in Cambodia on a scale unprecedented in its history. In the process, a once insular, heavily rural, and very conservative society is being transformed into an extension of the modern globalized world. It is difficult to predict where these deep social changes will eventually lead, but the old Cambodia characterized by its apparently gentle smiling people and languorous pastoral charm seems destined over time to resemble other fast-growing Asian countries. As Cambodia moves toward greater integration with the outside world, the personalized patrimonial political culture, which underlies current abusive governance practices, may gradually evolve toward a more responsive modern polity.

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Narin Jameson on Cooking and Culture in Cambodia

After arriving in the US in 1972, Narin Seng Jameson became homesick and yearned for the food of her childhood as a way to stay connected to home. After much research and persistence, she is now releasing the cookbook, “Cooking the Cambodian Way: The Intertwined Story of Cooking and Culture in Cambodia” as a way to preserve the traditional Cambodian recipes from the 1950's and 60's, the era of relative calm and peace, prior to the Khmer Rouge regime take over. She hopes the cookbook will reach young Cambodians/Americans who do not know how to cook the traditional recipes of their heritage. All proceeds of the book will go to the U.S. NGO, “Caring for Cambodia” To furthering the development of Cambodia especially in education.

Narin Seng Jameson came to the U.S. in 1972 with the hope to further her education and return to the homeland when Cambodia regains Peace, before the Khmer Rouge regime took power. She embarked on a study abroad program in Washington D.C. from the University of Phnom Penh and was able to be closer to her older sister, who was a Counselor at the Embassy of Cambodia. When Cambodia was taken over by the Maoist Khmer Rouge in 1975, it became impossible for Jameson to return home for the fifteen years under the dictator, Pol Pot.

Similar to most first year college students who study far away from home, Jameson had to learn to be independent, while simultaneously experiencing strong feelings of homesickness. She yearned for the traditional dishes that her family had made for her when growing up in Phnom Penh, because they brought back fond memories that she cherished. Jameson had memory of her childhood spent in the family kitchen and watched how the cook prepared the food and the comments made from her mother on what to add and what to reduce but no idea on how to find the ingredients as they are not available in the early 70s in the Washington metropolitan area. She decided to experiment Cambodian recipes from the 50s and 60s with the ingredients that friends and family provided to her, it was at that time she learned the substitutes of Khmer ingredients. The 50s and 60s represented Peace and Happiness in her childhood, she called it the Golden Era of Cambodia, before the war and violence in Cambodia began.

After many years of experimenting cooking while living with her sister and while living abroad as a spouse of a U.S. Foreign Service officer in different countries and entertained host dignitaries and fellow diplomats, Jameson’s interest in cooking continued and started to contribute recipes to many cookbooks that were created by different organizations she was a member of, including: the women’s association at The National War College in Washington D.C., The New Zealand Poultry Association in Wellington, and The International Cookery Group in Yangon, Myanmar. In May 1995, the Washington Post published some of her Cambodian recipes in their Food Section. She participated at the 7th Annual Asians in America Conference in NYU in 2001, Jameson has been an active board member at the Cambodian Buddhist Temple in Silver Spring, Maryland where she helps organize the education program, substitutes as a Khmer language teacher, and assists in the teaching of the Cambodian dance and Dhamma. After retiring from the World Bank Jameson becomes a consultant in the same organization.

Red Spicy Paste Recipe:


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Job Mentor; help refugees obtain their first employment in America

I have been volunteering as a Job Mentor at the International Rescue Committee (IRC) since last December (2010). As a job mentor, by far, I help new immigrants who were refugees from Thailand to find jobs in the United States, especially in the San Diego area. Within the first few weeks and months, I work closely with mentees on important tasks to get a job in America. Some of the skills I have taught are how to search for jobs online and/or in person, fill out applications online and/or print, do a follow up, and prepare for an interview. The last three months, I have been helping and providing assistance to four refugees from Burma (Myanmar). The first two Burmese, were a mother and a son. Although I was able to help the mother and son to achieve an employment, I am determined to find jobs for the newly arrived married couple who are eager to work hard for employment opportunities.

A few weeks ago, I met with Nee and Sem (made up names). They are in their mid 20s and have lived in America for about a month. Although I was surprised how thin they both are, I understand the malnourishment of refugee camps. Like my parents, Nee and Sem met in a refugee camp in Thailand. Similar to many Cambodian refugees I had interviewed, the couple has lived in Thai refugee camps for 14 years of their lives before they resettled in America. Nee arrived to the camp at age six and Sem at seven years old. The last camp they lived in is call Mae la oo in Thailand. In the camp, they received their high school diplomas. They shared with me that they learned Karen (native tongue), Burmese and Basic English along with math and science. (I am so pleased to have discovered that they had opportunities to learn while they were growing up in a refugee camp. Refugee camps today have changed and improved since I was in the camp.)

As a Job Mentor, I have to dig deep about their employment history. Although I am aware that most refugees do not work or have a job in a refugee camp, there are a few who do. I found out that both Nee and Sem worked in the camp. They were a caregiver and a youth mentor, respectively. Believe me when I say it was very hard working on their resume. I had to be creative when filling in the blanks on their resumes because their English is very limited and I do not speak Karen or Burmese. This was a challenge on both ends. It is not a surprise that there are limited IRC staff who speak the uncommon languages. I am sure within the next few years, they will have more Karen and Burmese translators. Just like any new immigrants, it is hard at first to adjust to the new country’s language and cultural barriers.

I was curious about the last camp they have lived. So I Googled “Mae la oo.” Just like that, the camp showed up. When I showed Nee and Sem the blog/website with pictures of the camp, their eyes lit up. They smiled and pointed to the screen and looked at me to make sure that I knew it was their home before America. The name of the blog is "In Burma." The blog is a great resource for me to better understand their life before arriving to San Diego, CA. I hope through learning about the camp and their background, I can better assist them in their new home in America and hopefully they both land a job soon before their terms end.

I was interested about what happens when refugees can’t find a job after their term has ended. I interviewed one of the IRC staff, Genevieve. She was happy to provide some answers. She mentioned that if they are not eligible for welfare (i.e. without children) and have not found a job at the end of their eight-month period, they would have no income. In other words, the cash aids that they received from the IRC to help them settle in America will expire. However, the IRC would continue to help them find jobs. Often what happens is those who did not find a job before their term is over, they end up depending on their family for support. In the worst case a few ended up on the street and were forced to be homeless. This is why it is very important for new immigrants to apply to as many jobs as quickly within their eight months term, so they have a better chance of obtaining a job at the end of their term.

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer and helping refugees search for jobs, and follow up on job leads, you can check the IRC website: www.rescue.org/sandiego for more detailed information.

Muay Thai Kickboxing: Yenly's Workout

A French Cambodian Singer for the Poland National Folk Ballet

I wanted to share with you my latest article for CAA interviewed with Christophe Lan. This article was published 3/10/11.


Christophe Lan is a product of globalization. Born in Paris, France- and now based in Warsaw, Poland. Lan is the first Cambodian French person to be singing for the Mirabilia Musica, Poland's National Folk Ballet. Lan has been singing in their vocalist ensemble for seven years. Mirabilia Musica is best known for their classical, religious, musical performances. Lan's father is from Cambodia and his mother is a native of France. Lan has traveled and lived in various countries and knows over four languages. Since his first singing lesson at age 17, Christophe discovered he had a natural talent and a passion for singing. Due to his language abilities, Christophe is an intentional singer: "Yes, I love to sing and have sang in various languages including Polish, French and German. I studied musicology (studies of music and culture), which helped prepare me for my current professional singing career. I am proud to say that I am the first Cambodian French who sang for the Mazowsze Zespol Ludowy, which is the Polish National Ballet.”


Christophe believes that music has a powerful ability to stir emotion and create a sense of connectedness:

“Music is so peaceful and you can make somebody happy, even crying with joy. For anniversaries of funerals, I was singing here in Poland and people were so happy to hear me sing ave maria caccini. When I sing for an audience, I feel that I am connected with them, here and there and further, it is like an experimental sensation of being everywhere and in communion with people and nature. My whole body is shivering and sounding.”-- Christophe

Khmer American Female Soccer Player

I would like to share with you an article, which is about me as a Khmer American Female Soccer Player by the Cambodian American Soccer Association. This was published March 3, 2011.


Growing up in a household with immigrant Khmer parents was difficult for Yenly and her pursuit to play soccer. It was tough for her mother to accept her daughter playing soccer which can be seen as dangerous. But soon enough, both her parents supported her dreams to play soccer. They realized their new home was America where girls can do anything like boys.

Yenly firmly believes that a sport such as soccer offers many life lessons. It has the ability to teach team work, communication, and building confidence. She learned many of these lessons while playing the sport and used it to help her cope with growing up in the ghetto. These lessons gave her strength and allowed her to be independent.

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