As the crisp air of early 2026 settles over Orange County, there is a familiar electricity humming through the streets of Little Saigon. It is the season of renewal, reflection, and—most importantly—celebration.
I am beyond thrilled to announce that #VNARPSOCAL is serving as a proud community media partner for one of the most anticipated cultural milestones of the year: the Tết at Home – Vietnamese Tết Fair 2026.
For our community, Tết is more than just a date on the lunar calendar; it is the heartbeat of our heritage. This year’s kick-off event promises to be a landmark occasion, blending our deep-rooted traditions with fresh, modern energy.
1. A New Chapter at the Sapphire Center
This year’s celebration holds a special significance as we gather at the Sapphire Center—a venue many of us have long known and loved as the former Saigon Performing Arts Center. This space has always been a pillar of Vietnamese culture in Southern California, and seeing it transformed for the 2026 Tết Fair feels like the perfect metaphor for our community: honoring our history while embracing a bright, sophisticated future.
2. What to Expect: Tradition Meets Innovation
The “Tết at Home” Fair is designed to be an immersive experience. For the first time, several new cultural activities will be introduced to the public, offering even those who have celebrated Tết for decades a chance to see our traditions through a new lens.
The event will be a feast for the senses, featuring:
- Traditional Games: Rediscover the joy of folk games that have been passed down through generations.
- Live Cultural Performances: From the rhythmic beat of the lion dances to contemporary musical showcases.
- Festive Flavors: No Tết celebration is complete without the tastes of home. Expect an array of traditional foods that evoke memories of family kitchens and street markets.
- Community Connection: Beyond the sights and sounds, this is a space to reconnect with old friends and forge new partnerships.
3. Empowering Our Local Economy
At VNARP SoCal, we believe that cultural strength and economic growth go hand in hand. This fair isn’t just a celebration; it’s a platform. We are calling on local business owners and entrepreneurs to take part in this vibrant gathering.
Sponsorship opportunities are still available, offering a unique chance to showcase your brand to thousands of attendees while directly supporting the preservation of Vietnamese culture in the diaspora. You can view the full sponsorship details and packages here:
4. Join Us This Weekend!
The festivities are spread across two days of excitement, and I personally invite you, your family, and your colleagues to join us. Let’s fill the Sapphire Center with laughter and the spirit of Chúc Mừng Năm Mới.
- When:
- Saturday, Jan 30 (9 AM – 8 PM)
- Sunday, Jan 31 (10 AM – 9 PM)
- Where: Sapphire Center (16149 Brookhurst St, Fountain Valley, CA)
- Admission: Free!
As we prepare to welcome the New Year, let us do so together. Let’s honor our roots, support our local creators, and create new memories that will last a lifetime. I look forward to seeing you there!
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Did you know that January marks the highest volume of Workers’ Compensation policy renewals in the country?
This makes January a critical window when businesses actively review their coverage and look for better options. And this year, the timing is especially important. Here’s what’s happening in the market:
January = peak renewal season for Workers’ Compensation policies
Many other commercial insurance lines are seeing rate increases across multiple industries
Several competitors are increasing Workers’ Compensation rates, even for historically stable classes
However, there’s good news.
1. Rate Decreases for Select Industries - Effective January 1, 2026
While the overall California Workers’ Compensation rate is increasing by +1.5%, several key industries are seeing significant rate decreases effective:
- January 1, 2026 for new business
- January 1, 2026 for renewal business
We’ve attached a list of high-potential class codes and industries that are experiencing notable decreases, including professional services, manufacturing, warehousing, specialty trades, and more.
2. Why this matters to you
If your business falls under one of these class codes, you may be:
- Overpaying at renewal
- Missing an opportunity for immediate savings
- Renewing with a carrier that is increasing rates unnecessarily
A quick review of your Workers’ Compensation policy could result in meaningful premium savings—especially during this renewal window.
3. Next step
We encourage you to review your business classification and reach out to us to see if your industry qualifies for these lower rates. There is no obligation—just an opportunity to make sure your coverage and pricing are still working in your favor.
It is the best time to act. Let’s make sure you’re not leaving savings on the table.
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We’re excited to share a new funding opportunity from the State of California that could support entrepreneurs and community-oriented small business initiatives across the state.
Social Entrepreneurs for Economic Development 3 (SEED 3)
This grant program aims to encourage and support entrepreneurship among individuals who face significant barriers to employment — particularly those with limited English proficiency and immigrants — by providing micro-grants, entrepreneurial training, and technical assistance to help start or sustain small businesses that address social needs in their communities. (California Grants Portal)
What the SEED 3 Grant Offers
- Purpose: Support entrepreneurs in launching or maintaining businesses that address community needs and social challenges. (California Grants Portal)
- Target populations: Individuals who face employment barriers, including those with limited English proficiency and non-citizens (including DACA or TPS recipients), as well as U.S. citizens within those groups. (California Grants Portal)
- Who can apply: Businesses, individuals, nonprofits, legal entities, public agencies, and tribal governments. (California Grants Portal)
- Total funding: Approximately $6,750,000 available statewide. (California Grants Portal)
Why this matters
- Encourages inclusive economic development
- Helps overcome barriers to business ownership and growth.
- Provides both financial support and valuable training.
Important Dates
- The grant is expected to open January 26, 2026. (California Grants Portal)
- Full application details and guidelines will be available at that time via the California Grants Portal.
This opportunity could be highly valuable for entrepreneurs ready to make a positive impact in their communities while building a sustainable business.
For full details, eligibility criteria, and application instructions, please visit the California Grants Portal. If you would like assistance reviewing your eligibility or preparing an application, feel free to reach out.