HAPPY

by Kristina Geerken

assistant features editor

Gong Hay Fa Choy! Every year, I get to say this to my family and close friends. In other words, Happy New Year!

••Filled with the stench of burnt paper and the snap, crackle and pop of frrecrackers, the streets of Chinatown in Philadelphia come to life. With little elbowroom available, the people in the streets gather around to watch the dragon slither through the narrow streets and do a traditional "warding off of bad spirits."

No, this isn't the dragon that they keep locked up in the city jail, but rather a colorful and intricate costume powered by a few people. This dance is also considered the "lion dance" by few.

As a child, I remember fearing that the dragon would come and eat me. With all of the excitement in the streets, it is hard not to be anxious and literally ecstatic with all of the festivities.

This is the year of the Rabbit. The Chinese have a 12-year cycle that involves a different animal. These animals are part of the Chinese zodiac as well. In a few short days, it will be the year of theDragon. on left; This is the chinese wheel of furtune. Isn't it pretty? on left and bottom; This is the dragon that is the symbol of celebration for the chinese new year. internet.

It is said that the year of the Dragon is a year of extremes. My grandmother has mentioned to me that fortune and disaster can come in massive waves.

Every year, the Chinese begin their New Year with a celebration. Not only is there a parade through the streets, but also the exchange of red envelopes. In these envelopes, there is some lucky money. It is a gift, usually from married couples to the children and unmarried adults.

Signifying prosperity and happiness, these envelopes are red, which the Chinese also consider a color of luck and good fortune. This giving is also the chance to start the New Year with a giving spirit.

A tasty meal usuaUy follows, consisting of dumplings and long-life noodles. In between visiting relatives and wishing them a Happy New Year, it is a day of excitement and reflection.

Saturday, Febru5 is Chinese New Year. Downtown Chinatown in Philadelphia usually has an impressive parade along with lots of "irecrackers ad tons of ,pirit.

by Kristina Geerken assistant features editor

Adorning the wrists of many, power bead bracelets have become a popular accessory. These beads are inexpensive and boast the power to perform special powers. Each color represents a different power or soothing effect.

Susan Sipes, a junior, is a non-believer of the supernarural effect of the beads. "I got the bracelet as a gift and I wear it all of the time. I think it is more of a psyche thing for peace of mind than an actual healing power."

For those with a creative twist, making your own bracelets has become a popular past-time. Many craft eastores offer the beads as well as the other supplies necessary in creating your own fate.

Healing beads that can provide spiritual, emotional or physical wellbeading? That is for the buyer to decide.

Beading up the intenet!

To find out more about beads, visit these great sites: www.beadsnbeads.com www.beadsofparadlse.com www.barefootbeads.com

Buy beads and bead supplies online!

A virtual cournocopuia of beads.

Power beads, such as the pink ones at Jettfor romance, add mystery. Home-made trinkits, above, can be easily constructed with simple supplies.