A lot of independent bookstores are struggling in these tough economic times. Competition from the big chains, Amazon, e-books: it all chips away at the bottom line. But at Green Apple, we're holding our own. One might ask the secret of our success. Is it our business acumen? Our aggressive marketing? No, it all comes down to The Lion Dance. Every Chinese New Year, members from local martial arts clubs come around and, for a small donation, perform a Lion Dance in the entryway of the store and set off some firecrackers to ward off the evil spirits. This ensures good fortune for the coming year. So Gung Hay Fat Choy, everyone. For a good book on Chinese New Year, check out Celebrate Chinese New Year by Carolyn Otto.