LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION honoring the Asian American community upon the
occasion of the celebration of the Lunar New Year 4709, the Year of the
Rabbit, on February 3, 2011

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to honor, with pleas-
ure and great pride, the Asian American community of the State of New
York upon the occasion of the celebration of the Lunar New Year; and
WHEREAS, The Lunar New Year is the most important and most popular of
festivals observed by Asian Americans; it is always greeted with much
preparation and much celebration; and
WHEREAS, According to legend, Buddha invited the animals of the world
to visit him, rewarding those who came by naming a year in their honor;
each animal in turn gave its characteristics to the people born in its
year; and
WHEREAS, On February 3, 2011, in accordance with their calendar and
beliefs, Asian Americans will joyously usher in the Year of the Rabbit,
4709; and
WHEREAS, People born in the Year of the Rabbit are talented and affec-
tionate, yet shy; they are good companions and work well with people;
and
WHEREAS, Those born under the sign of the Rabbit are noble and
elegant; they are also cautious and known for their careful and system-
atic thinking; they do well in their work, are intelligent in business,
and have creative minds; and
WHEREAS, Refined, stylish and sophisticated, with impeccable manners,
individuals born in the Year of the Rabbit are peace-loving and gentle,
with an artistic side which demonstrates their good taste; and
WHEREAS, The unique beauty of Asian culture and the contribution of
its people to literature, the arts and sciences, and the economy are
well-known and well-appreciated around the world; the contributions of
Asian Americans are especially bountiful throughout the Empire State and
are distinguished by their excellence; and
WHEREAS, Recognizing the significance of their contributions to the
City and State of New York, this Legislative Body is proud to honor all
New Yorkers of Asian ancestry, joining with them in welcoming the Year
of the Rabbit, 4709, on February 3, 2011; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor the Asian American community upon the auspicious occasion of the
celebration of the Lunar New Year, the Year of the Rabbit; and be it
further
RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to distinguished members of the Asian American community.