Task #34: Attend the Chinese Fair at McMahon CGS (Rachael and Kim)

33. Attend the Chinese fair at McMahon CGS.

As one of our tasks, we wanted to attend a language class at the McMahon Center for Global Studies.  Norwalk High does not offer the variety of languages and the same cultural experiences offered at McMahon, so we wanted to try it out for ourselves.  Mr. Karl put us in contact with a person at McMahon, and we heard about the Chinese New Year fair.

When we arrived, we were exposed to a number of things, including calligraphy, tai chi, paper lantern making, using chopsticks, dumpling making, and Dragon Dance.

I really enjoyed learning calligraphy from a Chinese student.  It was amazing because although we could not communicate well with one another, she was able to teach us so much in a short amount of time.

John taught Rachael how to prepare a dumpling.

He also taught Rachael how to fill the dumplings with a mixture containing scallions.

Making dumplings in the kitchen.

Signs denoted each station. 

We practiced picking up M & M's and marshmallows with chopsticks.

A Chinese student tried to teach Rachael and I how to write "Happy New Year" in Chinese.  

A Chinese game.  McMahon students kicked lanterns and tried to keep them up in the air. 

Tai chi taught by a Chinese instructor.

Calligraphy done by other McMahon students.

Rachael and I attempted to copy the calligraphy on paper that divided the space and made it easier to follow.

The calligraphy table.