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The Unified Nationalist Vietnamese Committee of Colorado (UNVCC) and the Vietnamese Elderly Association of Colorado jointly held its annual Vietnamese Lunar New Year at the All Saints Parish Church in Denver on January 13, 2001 starting at 11:00 a.m.

The first part of the program was the introduction of dignitaries and representatives, leaders of Asian community organizations and important guests. Among those present were: The Most Ven. Thich Chanh Lac, Thien, Tri Vien, Mr. Mike Coffman (State Treasurer), Dr. Hai Bui (representing Governor Bill Owens), a representative of Lakewood Mayor Steve Burkholder (read a proclamation), Tom Migaki) , (representing Mayor Wellington Webb), Tong Heng (Chair, Chinese, American Council of Colorado), Lily Shen (President, Colorado Chinese Club); Doung Nguyen (outgoing President, Vietnamese Community of Colorado), Ba Vovan (DPS official), Nai Li Yee (Chinese Cultural Center of Colorado), Yang Chee, (President, Lao-Hmong Coalition), Nestor Mercado (Philippine/Asian Ameican Times) and several Denver Police officers.

An offering of flowers and incense to show respect to their ancestors was a traditional ceremony performed by young girls dressed in colorful Vietnamese costumes together with older men in the community.

This was followed by beautiful songs, including the classic Ave Maria, were by several lovely young ladies.

The Martial Arts demonstrations presented precision style movements by young and old alike.

The famous lion dance accompanied by drumbeats demonstrated the symbol of power as the Vietnamese share and promote their culture. The lion went around the room, receiving money in red envelopes.

Mr. Nguyen T. Quang, President of the Vietnamese Elderly Association, welcomed the guests and wished all a Happy and Prosperous New Year. He happily announced that the Association has now the 501C3 status and has just recently received a grant of $100,000 for 3 years for the use of the elderly in the community. He also recognized and gave appreciation certificates to Mrs. Laurie Bacon, Mrs. Jane Oliver and to Dam Nguyen, Treasurer for their outstanding services to the Association.

The oldest members of the community: Nguyen V. Nguyen, 93, and Vu Tuyen, 89, were honored and recognized with gifts.

Mr. Sum Cong Nguyen, UNVCC President, in his proud and happy voice, announced the names of the outstanding members of the Committee and handed them framed certifications.

The celebration ended with more songs as guests partook of lunch of delicious Vietnamese cuisine.