The February 6, 2020 meeting of the Twentieth Century Club of Garrettsville was held at the home of Leah Schultz, with co-hostess Betty Clapp and butler Jack Schultz. Many members of the group were basking in the rays in Florida but those in attendance on an Ohio February evening were in fine fettle and excellent spirits.
Roll call was answered by declaring the member’s affiliation within the Chinese zodiac symbols currently displayed marking the Chinese or Lunar New Year. Descriptions and commentary on the characteristics ascribed to the various signs were the source of much entertainment.
Information on the upcoming Guest Night, to be held at the Garrettsville United Methodist Church on February 20 was presented–all about travel and travel stories– members were urged to bring guests and to RSVP to co-hostesses. The recent constitutional revisions were reviewed and voted on. A nominating committee to offer a slate of officers will make their presentation at a March meeting.
The evening’s program was focussed on the Chinese (Lunar) New Year and presented by Jane Hill, who opened with a learning experience using a word-search and a word-scramble, just to get the basics in mind. Prizes created by the Hill grandchildren were awarded and admired.
Next came a swift trip through the 4000-year history of the celebration, sometimes known as the Spring Festival, as well as the best-known symbols on display around the world, wherever Chinese communities are found. These include lions & dragons, fireworks and dumplings and the color red. Except for the dumplings, these are all things that scare away a fearful monster which makes an appearance at this time of year ( The dumplings just symbolize the family gathering aspect of the celebration…and prosperity.). It was informative and entertaining, followed by refreshment and conversation. Gong Hay Fat Choy!
