Benyon Junior High students perform lion dance for Chinese New Year celebration

The 2022 General Legislative Session in Utah convened on January 28, 2022, with a series of discussions and announcements that highlighted community engagement and upcoming cultural events. The session began with a personal privilege request from a representative who introduced students from Benyon Junior High School, accompanied by their instructor, Michael Markram. The students were recognized for their participation in a lion dance, a traditional performance heralding the Chinese New Year, which falls on February 1. The representative encouraged attendees to witness the lion dance in the rotunda, emphasizing its significance in promoting prosperity, good luck, and peace.

Following this cultural highlight, Representative Johnson noted that the day also coincided with National Have Fun at Work Day and National Kazoo Day, bringing a light-hearted spirit to the proceedings. He mentioned a fundraising initiative for the spouse service project, aimed at providing kits for a period project, and encouraged contributions from fellow legislators.

As the session progressed, representatives took a moment to celebrate birthdays within the chamber, leading to a collective singing of "Happy Birthday," fostering camaraderie among members.

In closing, Representative Brian King addressed the chamber on behalf of the minority caucus, wishing everyone a restful weekend and expressing anticipation for the next session. Representative Schultz echoed these sentiments, and the session concluded with a motion to adjourn until Monday, January 31, at 11 AM. This meeting underscored the blend of legislative duties with community and cultural recognition, setting a positive tone for the upcoming week.