According to the Vietnamese zodiac, 2011 is the Year of the Metal Cat. A prowler by nature, the cat represents sensitivity, gentleness and kindness. The metal cat—as opposed to the wood and water cats of other years—sets itself apart through the virtues of resiliency, determination and strength. Children that are born this year are said to have these qualities, and one would be hard pressed to find a better combination of them for this moment in history. Today, the four square blocks of San Francisco’s Tenderloin recently named Little Saigon transformed into a ribbon of food stalls, flower vendors, a smattering of American and South Vietnamese flags, bubble makers, balloons, entertainment; and possibly most amazing given the density of this neighborhood, a ferris wheel overlooking the whole scene. One more reason to love San Francisco’s Tenderloin District.