The Arcadia High School Chinese Parents Booster Club (AHSCPBC) hosted its 32nd annual Chinese New Year Gala on Feb. 8, featuring performances, food, and festivities. The ticket price this year was set at $88.
In the past, this gala has been a massive fundraising event to raise monetary donations for Arcadia schools, with last year’s donations exceeding $60,000. This year’s fundraising effort has been extended to support the teachers and staff who have been affected by the Eaton Fire, and about $65,000 was raised.
As guests walked through the brightly decorated entrance of the Arcadia Masonic Center, they were greeted by a wishing tree, which brings good luck and fortune for the new year. Guests were given the opportunity to write down their wishes and hang them on the tree before stepping into the main hall, where many attendees were taking pictures with family and friends.
“It’s my first time here, and I’m very excited,” said Sarah Li, who attended the event.
The gala started by featuring young martial artists from Fong’s Kung Fu School, who were led by Board of Education member Fenton Eng. Whilst they performed the traditional lion dance to drive away evil spirits, the God of Fortune made an appearance, blessing each table with prosperity and good fortune. Following this, students and seniors were invited up to receive a monetary gift enclosed in a red envelope which symbolizes good luck and prosperity.
When asked about the planning that went into the event, AHSCPBC Chinese New Year Committee Co-Chair Vivie Niu said that there were many things. The two main tasks involved getting the programs and the silent auction items, which were split between Niu and Pearl Cheung, the other AHSCPBC Chinese New Year Committee Co-Chair.
“We also needed to get the tables and decorations set up, invite all the performers, and communicate,” said Niu.
Not only were the administrative staff of Arcadia High School (AHS) in attendance, but also Superintendent Dr. David Vannasdall, board members of the Arcadia Unified School District, Arcadia Mayor Dr. Michael Cao and council members, and the Arcadia Fire Department Chief also present at the event. Many of the speakers had high praise to offer for the Chinese New Year Gala.
“These events are so important to the children [of Arcadia],” said city council board member Sharon Kwan. “They remind [the children] of our Chinese heritage and keep them engaged.”
Students in many organizations were invited to volunteer and perform at the gala. From National Honor Society (NHS), Seniors of Merit at Work (SMW) members, and students from Advanced Stagecraft, volunteers lent a hand to the success of the event. Whilst the guests enjoyed their six-course entrées, they were able to enjoy the entertainment provided by Pep Band, Orchesis, and Choir. Each performance was followed by loud applause from the audience.
“I’m glad we were able to showcase the unique [musical] culture to so many Arcadia residents,” said junior Matthew Wang, a member of Pep Band.
Meanwhile, senior Sophia Tun, SMW member and one of the performers for Arcadia Choirs, said that she was “a bit nervous to be performing for so many familiar eyes,” but it was “exciting” nonetheless.
Students were not the sole performers for the event; magicians, Chinese Yue Opera dancers, and members of the Arcadia High School Parents Choir enhanced the lively atmosphere. Zumba performers also danced alongside SMW members to “APT” by Rosé’.
Throughout the event, attendees were able to bid on centerpieces, floral arrangements, and other items in a silent auction—items such as appliances, gift vouchers, and a pickleball set—to earn money in supporting school programs and those in the community. One of the largest bids was a floral orchid arrangement, which was sold for $500.
Several raffles were held during the gala, with winners obtaining exciting grand prizes such as the newest AirPods and a Marshalls bluetooth speaker.
Nearing the end of the night, red handkerchiefs were passed out in preparation for the Yangge Dance, a popular Northern Chinese folk dance. Audience members with the red handkerchiefs were invited onstage to participate in the dance as well.
During the closing speech, Dr. John Tung, a host of the event and the principal of Rancho Learning Center said, “I’m so happy that we were able to fund so many programs and help those who needed it most.”
All in all, the gala’s fundraising goals and cheerful atmosphere showed the tight bond within the Arcadia community.
