WHEREAS, dating from 2600 B.C., the Asian lunar calendar is the oldest calendar on earth and the longest chronological record in history; and

WHEREAS, the new year on the Asian lunar calendar begins at the second lunar month after the winter solstice; and

WHEREAS, the lunar new year is a time of commemoration, celebration, and deep meaning for over a billion people throughout the world, including countless people in the United States and the Commonwealth of Virginia; and

WHEREAS, the lunar new year is of particular significance to Asian Americans, including those of Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Vietnamese descent now living in the Commonwealth; and

WHEREAS, the many individuals who celebrate the lunar new year have made many economic and cultural contributions to the nation and the Commonwealth; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by the House of Delegates, the Senate concurring, That the General Assembly designate the day designated as new year on the Asian lunar calendar, in 2012 and in each succeeding year, as Asian Lunar New Year Day in Virginia; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates post the designation of this day on the General Assembly's website.