Chinese tradition passing on Chinese tradition passing on (February 11, 2005)

Celebration drew 200 people

By Allison Gerard

Although most of us bought new calendars a month ago, the Chinese community turned the pages to a brand-new year on Wednesday. In honor of the year of the rooster, area celebrations such as parades, festivals and concerts are continuing until Feb. 20.

Students at Yew Chung International School in Mountain View celebrated the festive tradition with a concert followed by a feast.

"Chinese New Year is a very traditional part of Chinese culture, and we try to teach the children how they celebrate in China," said Sylvia Chau, head of admissions at the bilingual school. "We try to get the children involved by having them make lanterns and (toy) firecrackers."

Students participated in a concert on Feb. 4 to celebrate the new year. Performances included dancing, singing, drama and the playing of the violin and piano. Afterwards, there was a feast to which parents were encouraged to bring their favorite dish.

"We had a local restaurant cater, and we had all the traditional foods such as fish, meat, rice, noodles, spring rolls and Chinese pudding," Chau said.

Every class participated in the concert that had a turnout of over 200 people.

"The atmosphere was really happy and all the children enjoyed watching each other perform," Chau said.

Two teachers also sang a song during the concert in Mandarin Chinese.

The school was closed on Feb. 9 in observance of the holiday.

"It's a belief that if you work on New Year Day, you will work the rest of the year," Chau said.

E-mail Allison Gerard at agerard@mv-voice.com

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