Oakdale Elementary Celebrates Chinese New Year

With the help of Hong Kong-born parent volunteer, Betty Lee Kilroy, the fourth grade class of Ed Paris at the celebrated the Chinese New Year in style.The Asian culture has 12 animals that represent the cycle of their years. This year (4709 according to the lunar calendar) is the Year of the Dragon.

Mrs. Kilroy explained a brief background of her culture and shared some of the traditions involved when opening a New Year. Commonly, older or married folks give out "red envelopes" called a "hung-bao" to the younger, single members of the family. This red envelope contains something sweet (for pleasure and happiness) and a bit of "lucky money" (for prosperity).

During this weeklong event, families come together to share a meal and hang red lanterns in their homes and businesses. The color red symbolizes good luck and is abundant in an Asian home during the New Year. In spite of adopting much of the American way of life, the Asian community still holds the New Year in high regard. It is believed that no matter what has happened in the past, the New Year offers you hope for a fresh start and the beginning of a new chapter in your life.

After a brief question and answer session, Mrs. Kilroy and her daughter Kara, handed out their own red bags to the class and the teachers. Wishing all a Happy New Year - Gung Hey Fa Choy!