Chinese New Year celebrated at Calvin Calvin College Dining Hall was transformed into a festive, lively place one day in February. It was the location of the Chinese New Year celebration, which provided delicious Chinese food [catered by Oriental Forest] and entertainment for all who attended. This is the Year of the Rabbit on the Chinese lunar calendar. Like the Western new year, it is a time that signifies turning over a new leaf. Socially, it is a time for family reunions, and visiting friends and relatives. Sandra Xu, a Chinese woman who lives in Grand Rapids and participated in the fashion show, explained the importance of the New Year. "The first day of the New Year is a big deal," she stated. "The Spring Festival is [to Chinese] what the Christmas holiday is to [Americans]." Master of Ceremonies Tony Wu agreed. "It is very significant because this is the last Chinese New Year festival before the millennium," he said. "I'm very glad to see so many come." Indeed, many people did come. More than 600 people of all ethnic backgrounds attended. "There is a Chinese population of about 500 in Grand Rapids," stated Wu, who is a member of the Chinese Association of Western Michigan. "About 200 of us are here." The program, which was organized by the Chinese Association, included an evening of great entertainment. The Asian Center, Chen's Kung Fu School and a Chinese language school provided a variety of acts. One young performer, who did a line dance meant to ensure good luck, stated that he was "happy to be able to help other people celebrate important events in their culture." Children of all ages were fascinated with the Lion Dance, which combines a vibrantly-colored costume of a large lion head with pounding drums and a pulsating dance of skill. The children were just as fixated on the next act: Tai Chi and Tai Kwan Do. One martial arts demonstration displayed a mock fight with a single sword and staff. Children from the Chinese Language School of Western Michigan sang songs and performed plays and skits. Following the performances was a fashion show representing clothing from all periods of China's history. The styles spanned from the early 19th century to now-popular fashions. The evening concluded with the distribution of "lucky money." According to ancient tradition, elders give children money in order to ensure their good fortune for the coming year. By Kathleen Minkner