Video / George Yen
The Irvine Book Club celebrated the Lunar New Year with lively riddles, classic cuisine stories, ukulele melodies, calligraphy, book swaps, and festive raffles at the South Coast Chinese Cultural Center — on February 11.
Brain Buzz · Laughter Fills
Members checked in with bright smiles as Vice President Jennifer Lin, on behalf of President Rose Cheung and the volunteer team, thanked everyone for their steadfast support and wished the club a year of unceasing learning.
In the Year of the Horse—symbolizing strength and forward drive—she encouraged all to keep their curiosity galloping ahead.
The “Brain Candy” team—Li Jia-he, Zhuang Qian-xin, Gloria Glickley and Dr. Zhang Xin—then launched a lively riddle session blending holiday lore, current events, and cultural trivia.
Hands shot up, answers flew, and laughter rippled through the room, setting an energetic tone for the celebration.
Culinary Tales · Culture Served
Former President Anna Fu shared stories behind classic Chinese dishes—from Hubei’s pearl meatballs to the Hunan saying that “a pinch of salt and chili can fuel an army.”
Her storytelling turned familiar flavors into living symbols of heritage and memory, drawing smiles and nods of recognition from the audience.
Ukulele Vibes · Music Soars
The OC Golden Ukulele ensemble, founded in September 2025 by local music lovers—many of them club members—filled the hall with warmth.
Led by Cathy Chiang,George and Laura Yen, the group performed beloved Mandarin classics including Small Town Story, Spring Blossoms, Read You, Love Me Well, and Congratulations.
With lyrics projected onscreen, members clapped and sang along, as the festive favorite “Congratulations” brought the house together in joyful chorus.
Books & Blessings · Spring in Full
Beyond games and music, calligrapher Tang Chao-hui gifted auspicious phrases, while the “Book Journey Station” encouraged members to exchange treasured reads.
Raffles featuring generous prizes—sponsored by President Rose Cheung and Bower’s Museum Chair Anne Shih—added delight to the afternoon.
More than a holiday gathering, the Irvine Book Club’s Lunar celebration became a meeting of minds and hearts—ushering in the new year with wisdom, warmth, and shared joy.
Video / George Yen