On the evening of Feb. 25, Asians and Friends kicked off the Lunar New Year with their annual dinner and celebration at Pho Viet Vietnamese Restaurant.

This year's event was focused on this being the Year of the Dragon, which, according to the Chinese calendar, is a year of auspicious opportunity and exciting advancements for all.

The evening started with friends old and new mingling and socializing, followed by a four-course meal and a variety show, with members of the group performing in drag as the five elements: water, air, fire, earth and metal. There was also a raffle and an acknowledgement of the group's official photographer, Marty Dundee, who passed away last year.

Asians and Friends has been around since 1984, but this annual celebration always finds ways to refresh and surprise with each passing year. This time out Joel Camden performed a full vocal version of "When You're Good to Mama (Mama's Good to You)" from the Broadway show Chicago which brought the house down, while many members and guests dressed in traditional Chinese costumes.

The Year of the Dragon is one of twelve animal signs in the Chinese zodiac and is considered a celestial and divine creature with the ability to control the natural elements. The Dragon itself symbolizes power, strength, good luck and wisdom.

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