In The News

Lunar New Year-Valentine's Party

February '10

On Saturday, Feb. 13, resident Sean Nguyen and his family hosted a Lunar New Year - Valentine's party for all Aliana™ residents at the clubhouse. This is the Year of the Tiger, which is also known by its formal name of Geng Yin. The party was a huge success as residents brought potluck dishes and enjoyed creating origami fish and other craft games. Families celebrated with food, candy and drinks such as Lemony Love Potion while meeting new neighbors. As groups gathered in the main hall of the clubhouse, three dragons came dancing through the halls in full costume and performed to a drum band. The dancing was a magnificent display of culture that ended with residents feeding the dragons money and cards for good luck and fortune in the coming year.

After the music and dance, there was a martial arts demonstration. Nguyen taught residents self-defense moves to help prevent and deter possible attackers. Martial arts is “a form of self-defense taught to the locals to teach them to defend and protect their neighbors, community and country,” said Nguyen. He stated that staying calm and thinking clearly can save your life. Nguyen said to remember the vulnerable points on the attacker's body. They can consist of the groin, toes, kidneys, or even fingers. He then demonstrated how to use elbows, legs or other body parts to defend yourself against the attacker.

Lemony Love Potion

1 2-oz. can pink lemonade concentrate
Pint of raspberry sherbet
2 -L. bottle of lemon/ lime soda

1. Mix the lemonade concentrate with the recommended amount of water.
2. Add sherbet and stir until dissolved.
3. Add the soda, stir and serve.