SpringfieldNewsSun.com

SPRINGFIELD, Ohio — The community will have a second chance to celebrate a new year when Wittenberg University's associate professor of theater and dance presents the customs, celebrations and foods of the Chinese New Year during the January installment of the Global Table.

The event begins at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 15, in room 105 of Wittenberg University's Shouvlin Center.

Attendees of the free event will learn how to make egg rolls while Taiwan-born Shih-Ming Li Chang explains the meaning behind the decorations, dances and foods used during the multi-day festival.

Chang will reveal what Chinese New Year's food tradition promises financial good fortune and what not-so-fresh food tradition keeps children on their best behavior during the days preceding the new year. She also will give her personal tips on the proper way to prepare Chinese food.

A video slide show of Chang's recent visit to China will be shown while some traditional sweets that mark the new year will be offered to attendees.

"I'm hoping (attendees) will understand more about the Chinese culture," Chang said. "Maybe when they see so spectacular celebrations they might be interested in going to China."

The Global Education and Peace Network, which co-sponsors the event with Wittenberg, began as a response to the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. The Global Education Series provides an opportunity for the community to be exposed to other ethnic groups, cultures and religions as a way of increasing understanding and respect.

The event is free and open to the public. For more information call, (937) 324-7696.

Contact this reporter at (937) 328-0347 or kmori@coxohio.com.