by Charles Bontémps
Another newsletter and yet another cultural celebration at SPSC!
In April, we celebrated the Cambodian New Year (also known as Khmer New Year) with our Seniors and it was a wonderful success.
We kicked off the evening with a traditional Cambodian meal: red chicken curry, which was served with bread, pickled greens, and mango. Many of our Seniors came dressed in traditional clothing which was absolutely beautiful and many photos were taken throughout the evening.
The New Year celebrations began with a Cambodian Blessing Dance, traditionally performed at the beginning of ceremonies or celebrations to greet, bless, and offer good wishes for all attending. After some technical difficulties (and an amazing dance performer who had to start over three times) the evening officially began!
The Seniors sang two beautiful Cambodian anthems, as well as playing the Star-Spangled Banner to honor the country they call home today. The evening included traditional games that our Seniors have played since they were children, a fashion show to share the beautiful colors and clothing of Cambodian culture, and lots of singing and dancing. The room was filled with so much joy, you couldn’t help but smile while watching the celebrations take place!
