NOBEL PEACE PRIZE COMMEMORATION
Friday December 10, 2004

Following the "March for Tibet's Independence," Tibetans of Chicago warmly welcomed the walkers and demonstrators from all over the Midwest who filled the Tibetan Community Center to celebrate the occasion. The Tibetans of Chicago brought delicious food for a potluck party that was held soon afterwards. A wonderful performance of traditional Tibetan music was given by younger and older Tibetans. The demonstrators and walkers as well as the Chicagoans were entertained and enjoyed the performance very much. There was no doubt that this day was extremely successful.

MARCH FOR TIBET'S INDEPENDENCE
Friday December 10, 2004

See photos of the March

The last day of the "March for Tibet's Independence" was very successful. The original 10 walkers were joined by 60 additional individuals walking the last 12 miles to the Chinese Consulate.

At Water Tower Place, downtown Chicago, the walkers were warmly welcomed by a large number of Tibetans including the leaders of the Tibetan Community of Chicago. After brief welcoming speeches, the entire group began their final walk to the Chinese Consulate. About 300 individuals from Minnesota, Indiana, Wisconsin, Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky, and Illinois participated in this final segment of the 200 mile, 11 day "March for Tibet's Independence." Also, SFT members from Indiana University, Berea College, Indian University-Fort Wayne, and Chicago attended.

At the Chinese Consulate, the demonstration began with prayers, opening remarks by the leader of the Tibetan Alliance of Chicago and was followed by an inspirational speech by Ngawang Norbu. The whole group chanted "CHINA OUT OF TIBET," 'RELEASE TENZIN DELEK RINPOCHE AND THE PACHEN LAMA," throughout the demonstration. Finally the group proudly sang the Tibetan National Anthem.

That evening, all demonstrators and walkers were welcomed by the Tibetans of Chicago at the Tibetan Community Center where they were served a delicious pot luck dinner.

TIBETAN CULTURAL PERFORMANCE
November 27th, 2004

The Tibetan Cultural Performance Group (Thangtong Lhugar) from India performed Tibetan cultural songs and music at the community center.

THANKSGIVING GATHERING
November 24th, 2004

The community brought their own food to celebrate Thanksgiving at the community center.

A political debate was held about the future Independence of Tibet. The participants were Mr. Tseten Wangyal Lungkara, Mr. Sonam Gonpo and Mr. Karma la. Mr. Kelsang Draggo moderated the debate.

SPIRIT OF TIBET
November 13th event

Saturday, November 13th, 2004 was an eventful day for the Tibetan community in Chicago. Many local Tibetans and non-Tibetans were graced by the arrival of Keutsang Rinpoche at Lake Street, Evanston—a city north of Chicago.

Tibetan Buddhists consider receiving teachings from high lamas an important part of our religious/spiritual tradition. Keutsang Rinpoche gave those who were gathered at the church an initiation of what is called the Hayagriva Longevity Empowerment—specific prayers and teachings in Tibetan Buddhism in reverence to Avalokiteshwara—the Buddha of Compassion. Like many other kinds of buddhist teachings, Hayagriva Empowerment is also given to reduce and/or eliminate negative impediments, and promote positivity in one’s life, particularly in a spiritual context.

After the religious/spiritual part of the event was over, various members of the Tibetan community presented cultural songs and dances, while a popular traditional Tibetan cuisine—momo—was served.

Another highlight of the event was a presentation by Douglas A. Wissing, the author of a book titled Pioneer in Tibet: The Life and Perils of Dr. Albert Shelton. In it, Wissing traced the experiences of the famed American missionary inside Tibet, and the mystery surrounding his death. For the people gathered at Lake Street Church, the author presented a slide show of pictures that he took during his two trips into Tibet.

Last but not least, after the events were concluded at Lake Street Church, a fundraising party was held at the Tibetan community hall, located at 950 W. Carmen Avenue, Chicago. It was hosted by members of Students for a Free Tibet (SFT), and many Tibetans attended the party to show support.

On Sunday, November 14th, Wissing held a discussion with a group of young Tibetans at the Tibetan community hall. During that session various issues relating to Tibet and Tibetans were addressed with active participation from the youth.

In the afternoon, Keutsang Rinpoche held a private audience with Tibetans only at the community hall, where he kindly gave more teachings and addressed the group.

We, the Tibetans of Chicago, thank the Rinpoche and author Douglas A. Wissing for their time.

LHABAB DHUE-CHEN
November 4th, 2004

The Tibetan community gathered and prayed during this auspicious day at the community center.

Mrs. Kelsang Deckyi, Tsering Wangmo and Ani Kunsang sponsored dinner to all community members.

Mrs. Tashi (Skokie) sponsored Tibetan tea and India tea.

Mid-Year Community General Meeting
October 9th, 2004

The community brought delicious food and attended the Mid-Year community meeting at the Community Center.

TAC's President announced all the upcoming events and future programs/plans to the community.

The survey for the future Community Center was distributed to the community members. Community members were asked to return their duly filled survey to TAC' office no later than mid-November 2004.

TIBETAN DEMOCRACY DAY
September 4, 2004

The Tibetan Community observed Tibetan Democracy Day on Saturday, September 4th at the community center. Community members brought delicious Tibetan food and drinks, which helped make it a wonderful evening.

The special program, a Quiz Competition about Tibet, was held for the Tibetan adolescent children during the Democray Day. Our main goal was to encourage our children to learn more about Tibet. Mr. Tenzin Phuchung was in charge of this program. He put all questions together and quizzed the contestants.

The girls group—Nordon, Palmo and Sonam—won the Quiz Competition!

TAC CAMPING TRIP
August 20-22, 2004

About 60 Tibetans attended the 3-day camping trip. There were 6 groups in total and each group cooked their own Tibetan food on bonfire and barbeque.

Children had fun playing all day while parents sat around the fire at night and had a wonderful time talking. This camping trip was a huge success and hopefully it will become an annual Tibetan Community Camping Trip.

CHOEKHOR DHUE-CHEN
(BUDDHA SHAKYAMUNI'S FIRST TEACHING)
July 21, 2004

The Tibetan community prayed and offered Tsok at the community center during the auspicious occasion of Choekhor Dhue-Chen.

Members from the Tibetan community brought various Tsok items. Mr. Sonam Dhargye la made special Tsok by hand and led the special prayer session. Tibetan Tea and Tsok items were distributed to the community.

WORLD TIBET DAY CELEBRATION
July 17, 2004

This year the celebration of His Holiness the Dalai Lama's birthday carried special meaning. In conjunction with the day, July 6th was also declared World Tibet Day. The idea of World Tibet Day mostly aimed at creating more awareness of the Tibetan cause and celebrating Tibetan culture, which was exactly how the Tibetans in Chicago commemorated the day.

Overlooking Lake Michigan, along the scenic Lakeshore Drive, Chicago Tibetans, and supporters and friends of the Tibetan community, gathered at St. Andrew's church to enjoy an evening of much festivity. Beginning with the offering of traditional scarfs (khataks) to the altar of H.H. The Dalai Lama, a series of Tibetan songs and dances were also performed. The participants included community members from different age groups. Also, a number of new items were also featured.

On top of the musical entertainment, the church was also decked with rare pictures from Tibet that were on display. Also, a small Tibetan 'market' was held by a group of Tibetans who brought various items such as jewelry and clothes. Meanwhile, the guests were able to enjoy a variety of freshly made Tibetan cuisine.

After the performances concluded with the singing of the Tibetan national anthem at St. Andrew's church, the party resumed back at the Tibetan community center.

BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION FOR
H. H. THE DALAI LAMA
July 5, 2004

The Tibetan community gathered at the Community Center to celebrate the 69th birthday of H.H. The Dalai Lama.

The Tibetan community prayed and offered scarves to the alter of H.H. The Dalai Lama. Traditional Tibetan tea and sweet rice were served.

After the prayer, the attendees enjoyed interesting games and a group dance, which we call Gorshay, led by Mr. Tseten Wangyal.

After the celebration at the Community Center, everyone went to Foster beach for a potluck party. Members brought along delicious foods and enjoyed lunch at the beach.

An exciting volleyball game was played between Ridge Team and Sheridan Team.

ZAMLING CHI-SANG
July 2, 2004

The Zamling Chi-sang prayer was held at the community center.

The Tibetan community also recited special prayers sent by the Tibetan Government-in-exile, Dharamsala (India).

World Refugee Day
June 19, 2004

TAC participated in the celebration of World Refugee Day at the Old Town School of Folk Music. The Chicago Tibetan Cultural Dance Group presented Tibetan dance and music.

Every year the world around celebrates World Refugee Day with activities highlighting the plight of refugees globally, but also celebrating the rich culture and heritage refugees bring from each community.

The festivities began with a keynote address covering a global update on the refugee situation and continued with empowerment workshops for refugees as well as a series of seminars for refugee service providers, educators, and others interested in refugee issues.

World Refugee Day concluded with a powerful cultural program which included presentations by refugee singers, dancers, poets from countries including Tibet, Angola, Bosnia, China, Russia, Congo, Haiti, Ukraine and many more.

Saka Dawa Prayer
(Tsepa Chonga)
June 3, 2004

Saka Dawa is one of the most important Buddhist holy days, on which falls the three events in Lord Buddha's life—birth, death and enlightenment.

The community showed up and Saka Dawa prayers were held at the Community Center for two hours. TAC board members Mr. Norbu Samphell and Sonam la explained to the Tibetan community about the importance of Saka Dawa.

Delicious Tibetan bread and Tibetan tea were served, which were sponsored by the Tibetans.

Potluck Party at Foster Beach
May 30, 2004

A potluck party was scheduled to be held with TIPA at Foster Beach. Unfortunately due to severe raining, it was held at the Community Center.

The Tibetan community brought delicious foods for the potluck party. After the feast TAC'S president, on behalf of the Tibetan community, gave TIPA a donation and thank-you scarves - a small token of our appreciation.

After the potluck party, the weather cleared so we went to Foster Beach to play volleyball. The Tibetan community as well as TIPA enjoyed themselves.

Drepung Gomang Monks
May 29, 2004

Eleven monks from Drepung Gomang Monastery came to the Tibetan Community Center at 2:00 P.M. and did a special offering of Tsok prayers for Saga Dawa.

The Tibetan community gathered at the Community Center and gave donations for the prayers. TAC gave donations to the monks as well. Tsering Lhamo & family made Tibetan bread and tea.

Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts
(TIPA)
May 28 , 2004

A large number of Tibetan Community Members gathered at the Community Center to see the TIPA performance. The director of TIPA explained TIPA's tour in the U.S. and she described the importance of preserving Tibet's rich culture.

TIPA's performance at the Tibetan Community Hall was greatly appreciated by the Tibetan people and all who attended. On behalf of the Tibetan community, TAC's president gave a formal thank-you speech. After the performances, a dance party was held with TIPA at the Community Center.

By Law Meeting
May 22, 2004

TAC's new By Law was passed and approved by the TAC members on May 22nd 2004. The new By Law is now in effect and will be followed by TAC.

Mother's Day Celebration
May 8, 2004

There was a Mother's Day Celebration with traditional Tibetan music at the Community Center.

Featuring:
- Jamyang Choeden (TIPA)
- Tsering Youdon (Switzerland)

Also Chicago's very own:
- Lobsang Yangphel
- Passang Lama
- Tenchoe

A Dance Party was held at the Community Center afterwards.

Hunger Strike at Chinese Consulate
April 28, 2004

TAC organized a hunger strike in front of the Chinese Consulate in Chicago on April 28th to urge China to release the XI th Pachen Lama and Tenzin Delek Rinpoche. Also in support of the Hunger Strike going on in New York.

The following are the eight Tibetans in Chicago that participated in the Hunger Strike:

Lobsang Gawa, Pippen, Tenzin Jamyang, Thupten Chosang, Tenzin Cee, Tsering Youdon, Tenzin Youdon, Tenzin Dawa

Prayer Vigil
April 25, 2004

Tibetan community of Chicago gathered and a prayer vigil was held in the community center on April 25th in support of an on-going Hunger Strike in New York.

Farewell Potluck Party
April 17, 2004

The Tibetan community threw a farewell potluck party for the outgoing board members on April 17th, 2004 at the Tibetan community center.

Mr. Tsering Chonjor, new President of TAC, handed out thank you scarves to the outgoing board members.

Birthday Parties
April 10th & 16th, 2004

Two birthday parties were celebrated in the community center.

New TAC Board Members for 2004

On 27th of March, 2004, a new board was elected to run the Tibetan Alliance of Chicago. The term of this new board will be for one year and there are 20 new members.

The following are the new board members elected for the year 2004-2005 by the Tibetan Community of Chicago.

President: Tsering Chonjor
Vice President: Pema Rinzin
Treasurer: Namgyal Shallung
General Secretary: Tenzin Nyendrak

Board of Directors:

Namgyal Gorong
Youtso
Tsering Dolma
Nawang Thinley
Sonam Dhargay
Tenpa
Tamdin Tso
Tsering Dolma
Dolkar
Kelsang Chodak
Rinzin
Tsering Dolkar
Norbu Samphel
Penpa Bhuti
Dawa Dolma
Ama Dolma

Tashi Gyatso—Tibetan Magician
March 27, 2004

The Tibetan Alliance of Chicago is pleased to announce that we have a professional Tibetan magician in our community in Chicago. The name of the magician is Mr. Tashi Gyatso, from Amdo region of Tibet.

On 27th of March, we invited Mr. Tashi to the community center and he gave a free magic show to the community. It was a great performance!

Mr. Tashi had immigrated to the United States in 1993 and was settled in Chicago as one of the thousand Tibetan immigrants resettled in the U.S. It was not easy at first and he had to go through a difficult period of family misfortunes and hardship of being in an alien land. But the idea of tricks and the world of magic had brought him peace and hope. In fact, it had fascinated him right from his early childhood days.

Mr. Tashi Gyatso hungrily dabbled in the magic world and had studied the trade from different sources. He even traveled to such countries like England, Italy, Romania, Mexico and Mongolia to gain experiences in the world of magic. Today, he is a professional magician and runs his own company. He calls himself 'Tashi the Magician from Himalayas'.

Mr. Tashi is married to a charming Mexican lady named Mayo Gyatso who happens to be a Realtor. They have two children and live in north side of Chicago. On 27th of March, Mr. Tashi Gyatso gave a free performance to the Tibetan community in Chicago.

Interested people can contact him at 773 405 3649 or e-mail him at Tashigmagician@yahoo.com

Pa-Tsering—Tibetan Comedian
March 20, 2004

The Tibetan Alliance of Chicago had been trying hard to invite the famous Tibetan comedian Mr. Pa Tsering to Chicago. In collaboration with coordinators of 'Peace Ride for Tibet's Independence,' the Tibetan Alliance decided to organize an event called 'An evening with Pa- Tsering.' This is to raise funds for the upcoming Peace Ride—a cycling campaign for Tibet from Washington to Toronto.

The event drew a large number of people. Pa Tsering, with his wit and humor, entertained the crowd for almost 3 hours with rib-roaring Tibetan jokes and funny anecdotes. At the end, there was a question answer session. Mr. Pa Tsering stayed in Chicago at Mr. Lhakpa Tsering's house. The Tibetan Alliance was able to raise nearly one thousand dollars for the Peace Ride.

An Evening with Prof. Jan Andersson
March 13, 2004

Professor Jan Andersson is a well known figure in Tibetan community in exile and Tibet Support Group. In fact, he is the cofounder of Swedish Tibet Committee in 1967—the first Tibet Support Group in the world. The professor has served the cause of Tibet in various capacities and has lectured on Tibet all over the world. Today, he is the co-founder and chairman of International Campaign for Tibet, Germany.

Dr. Andersson was here in Chicago to attend a conference on Chemistry at the University of Chicago. The Tibetan Alliance of Chicago invited the professor to meet with the community. He gave a wonderful slide show tracing the history of Tibet movement and the role of Tibet Support Group around the world. The talk was very educational, insightful and inspiring. His talk was followed by a question and answer session.

The community took great interest in his talk and learned much. Later in the evening, TAC general secretary Mr. Lobsang Gawa hosted a dinner at his home, in honor of the visiting professor.

Tibetan National Uprising Day
March 10, 2004

The 45th Tibetan National Uprising Day fell on March 10 this year. On this day, some 45 years ago, Tibetans rose up against the Chinese occupation army and their evil designs to get rid of the Tibetan leader. The 10 March is observed all over the world wherever there are Tibetan communities.

Here in downtown Chicago, the Tibetan community gathered at the Water Tower. They were joined by representatives of Students for a Free Tibet (Missouri chapter) and people from Indiana. The event started with reading of His Holiness Dalai Lama's message by the President of Tibetan Alliance of Chicago. The protest march snaked through Michigan avenue, NBC Tower and finally ended before the Chinese Consulate.

Marchers shouted protests and read out messages in Tibetan, English and Chinese languages. The highlight of the day was placing of a special placard reading 'China Out of Tibet' in front of the consulate entrance, unfurling of a huge banner that read 'Stop execution of Tenzin Gelek Rinpoche'. This banner was made by SFT, Missouri chapter. The protest day ended with burning of Chinese flag and singing of Tibetan National anthem.

Losar—The Tibetan New Year
February 21& 28, 2004

The Tibetan New Year of 'Wood Monkey' was celebrated in Chicago with great pomp and gaiety. This year's celebration was very different from all the previous Losars the community has celebrated in the last ten years. This is all due to the creativity and dedication of the board members who worked hard for months to make it a success.

On the first day of Losar, the community hall was packed to it's capacity with no empty space to spare. Almost all the community members joined a special one day get together where they feasted on exotic buffet for dinner and lunch. The ceremony started with introduction from TAC President Mr. Sherab Gyatso followed by prayers and Khatag offering to the Dalai Lama throne. This was followed by dances, songs, mono acting, group dances, narration of poetic verses, jokes, humorous personal anecdotes and many others. The New Year celebration went on into the early wee hours of the morning.

On 28th of the month, a special New Year fundraiser event was organized at St. Andrew's church where the community brought potluck dinner for the guests. The event drew the largest number of American supporters to date. There was a spectacular cultural show where children and elders both took turns giving performances. Another highlight of the event was the debut performance of the drama called 'Wheel of Karma' and dances by a Mongolian pop group, both of which drew praises from the audience.

Chicago Conference:
Students for a Free Tibet
February 6-8, 2004

The Midwest chapter of Students for a Free Tibet held their second conference at the Tibetan Community Center.