III 110th CONGRESS 2d Session S. RES. 457 IN THE SENATE OF THE UNITED STATES February 14, 2008 Mr. Reid submitted the following resolution; which was considered and agreed to RESOLUTION Recognizing the cultural and historical significance of the Chinese New Year or Spring Festival.

Whereas the Chinese New Year is celebrated on the second new moon following the winter solstice; Whereas February 7, 2008, marks the first day of the Chinese New Year for 2008, also known as the Year of the Rat or the Year of Wu Zi; Whereas the Chinese New Year festivities begin on the first day of the first lunar month and end 15 days later with the celebration of the Lantern Festival; Whereas there are approximately 3,500,000 Chinese-Americans in the United States, many of whom will be commemorating this important occasion; Whereas this day will be marked by celebrations throughout our country as Chinese-Americans gather to watch the dragon and lion dances; and Whereas the United States Postal Service will debut a new stamp series for the 12 animals in the Chinese calendar on February 9, 2008, with the series continuing through 2019: Now, therefore, be it

That the Senate— (1)recognizes the cultural and historical significance of the Chinese New Year or Spring Festival; (2)in observance of the Chinese New Year, expresses its deepest respect for Chinese-Americans and all those throughout the world who will be celebrating this significant occasion; and (3)wishes Chinese-Americans and all those who observe this holiday a happy and prosperous new year.