To celebrate the Chinese New Year and to strengthen relations with the local Chinese community, the Confucius Institute at Dawson College co-sponsored a Chinese New Year Gala at Place des Arts Jan. 18. The evening was a showcase of Chinese culture featuring dance, acrobatics and singing. The Chinese New Year, which was officially welcomed Jan. 24-25, is the major celebration of the year for the Chinese. Wishing everyone great happiness and prosperity for the Year of the Rat!