Hong Bao Gala – Year of the Horse Benefits Northwest Chinese Academy

Beaverton, January 25th, 2014. Over 150 supporters kicked up their heels as Northwest Chinese Academy (NWCA) held its annual auction, the Hong Bao Gala – Year of the Horse. KGW’s Emcee, Drew Carney, Event Co-chairs, Joel Simon and Lisa Snyder and Auctioneer, Kelly Russell enjoyed the evening. The benefit celebrated Chinese New Year and the tradition of giving money in red envelopes, Hong Bao, to wish people good luck in the new year.

Pre-Kindergarten Teacher, Donna Laoshi, speaking to guests about her experiences at NWCA

Event guests included Sate Representative Dennis Richardson, City of Forest Grove and North Plains city officials, community members, parents, family and friends. Guests celebrated special student achievements, exquisite student art projects and bid on a variety of silent and live auction items. The school is thankful for the overwhelming support of donors that helped raise $85,000 to maintain Northwest Chinese Academy’s high educational standards. The proceeds allow NWCA to deliver an outstanding Mandarin immersion education unlike any other in the Portland Metro area.

Auction Co-chairs, Lisa Snyder and Joel Simon

Lisa Snyder and Joel Simon Co-Chairs – extended caption:
Auction Co-chairs, Lisa Snyder and Joel Simon

NWCA’s 4th Grade, Preschool and 3rd Grade Chinese Teachers

Elisa Klein

I’ve been a professional journalist and writer since 1987, (and long-time reporter for KOIN-TV.) As a nationally published reporter, with a Master’s Degree in Journalism, I love to report positive news and information. Journalism has also connected me with another non-profit where I served as a leader; the Northwest’s biggest writer’s organization: The Willamette Writers.