All posts filed under: Sports

A Lao American Teen’s Take on Kneeling and the National Anthem

Published by littlelaosontheprairie

Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. The United States has used these words as a foundation for building society as we know it. But does life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness apply to everyone regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation, or color? Based on how polarizing the debate has become, one might start to think the answer is more complicated than just a straight yes or no. The answer, of course, depends on many factors; such as, how a person is raised, personal experiences, natural disposition, etcetera. According to Colin Kaepernick, a former National Football League (NFL) player for the San Francisco 49ers, our country is not respecting these words. Because of this, many athletes and American citizens are choosing not to participate in national traditions. Recently, the actions of a few NFL players, including Kaepernick, ignited large-scale controversy over the American flag and whether not participating in the Pledge of Allegiance and/or national anthem should be construed as disrespectful. Both sides make some fair points, but it is a person’s constitutional right …

Lao Chess on the Rise!

Published by Bryan Thao Worra

When it comes to chess in Southeast Asia, most people think of that highly problematic Murray Head song, “One Night in Bangkok” from the 80s musical Chess, and chess queens might not excite you the way it would others. Last month, the Laos Chess Federation made a strong showing to change that perception, hosting the 1st Laos International Open from January 3rd to 7th in Vientiane. Chess is an Asian strategy game over 1,500 years old, depicting the conflict between two rival armies, with each piece capable of unique moves to capture the other’s pieces. The goal is to place your opponent’s king into a situation where it is impossible for him to move safely, known as checkmate, from an Arabic term, shah mat, meaning “the King is dead” or “the King is helpless.” Today, it’s a game popular around the world, including Europe, Russia, the Middle East, and the US. Well-known players of the 20th century include Garry Kasparov and Bobby Fischer. Although chess is widely believed to have begun in India, India’s first modern Grandmaster, Viswanathan …