It might be the year of the ox elsewhere, but in Cumberland it is the season of the Chinese Emperor Dragon. That's who is featured on a custom-designed t-shirt by graphic artist May Gee of the Coal Creek Historic Park Advisory Committee. The dragon, symbolizing power, protection and good fortune, honours and remembers the strong spirit of the Chinese who lived in Cumberland Chinatown. The glowing pearl is associated with knowledge, wealth, good luck and prosperity. The coalscuttle reflects Cumberland's coal mining history; it's Chinese character meaning luck and fortune. This symbolic word is often displayed in doorways, blessing all who pass through.

Proceeds of t-shirt sales will go toward building a picnic shelter in Chinatown. Shirts are available at Seeds Natural Food Market (Dunsmuir at Third Street in Cumberland) and the Cumberland and District Credit Union. They will also be on sale at the Cumberland Taiwanese Lantern Festival March 28. The Committee thanks Cumberland Chinatown descendant May Gee for her generous donation of the design. Available in S, M, L, XL, XXL ($20) and Youth ($19) sizes.

FMI about the Coal Creek Park project or to volunteer, contact co-chairs John Leung (336-2115) or Grace Doherty (336-8921)


Group Photo Credit: Robert Saint Amour . The photo is of (L to R): Joyce Lowe, May Gee, John Leung and Grace Doherty of the Coal Creek Historic Park Advisory Committee.