Lion Dancers and Dragon Dancers welcomed the residents to Monterey Park’s Lunar celebration in Barnes Park on February 20.

City Treasurer Joseph Leon, Councilmember Mitch Ing, Councilmember Frank Venti, Councilmember David Lau, City Clerk David Barron and Bob Lockovich from the United States Post Office unveiled the Year of the Tiger stamp.  Kam Mak, the artist, chose narcissus flowers, which are considered auspicious at any time of the year and thus especially appropriate at this time of renewed hope for the future. The illustration was originally created using oil paints on a fiberboard panel.

David Lau welcomed everyone to the Year of the Tiger celebration in Chinese.

Frank Venti wished everyone a Happy New Year in both English and Chinese. He said it is wonderful to see all the people participate in all the cultural events. He asked God’s blessing on all.

Mitch Ing welcomed all to celebrate the rich Chinese culture in Barnes Park. The culture is over 5,000 years old. He thanked all for coming.

David Barron wished everyone a Happy New Year! Have a great time. Call your family to come and join us at this great party.

Joseph Leon wished everyone a Happy New Year! Have a great day!

City Manager June Yotsuya wished everyone a Happy New Year! This is a wonderful day. She thanked the Parks and Recreation Department for this party.

Bob Lockovich, City Manager June Yotsuya, Councilmember Mitch Ing, Councilmember Frank Venti, Princess Michelle Kung, Miss Taiwanese- American Connie Muramoto, Councilmember David Lau and City Treasurer Joseph Leon joined in the celebration.

Michelle Kung performed a traditional Peacock dance to the delight of the audience.

Entertainment included jugglers and dancers performing folk dances in their colorful attire.

Cici Lau entertained the crowd with a Chinese solo.  Her husband, David Lau proudly watched her performance from the audience.

The event also featured face painting, a petting zoo and several Asian food booths.

The Year of the Tiger was welcomed into Monterey Park.