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WHEREAS, the Lunar New Year is the central cultural event in the Chinese community around the world; and
WHEREAS, since the 1800s, the local Chinese community has been an asset to the City of Pittsburgh and its social, cultural, and economic development; and
WHEREAS, members of the local Chinese community have made innumerable contributions in the fields of business, education, research, arts, medicine, engineering, social services and science; and
WHEREAS, there are several Chinese organizations in the Pittsburgh area that contribute to our region's cultural diversity, including the Pittsburgh Chinese Restaurant Association which highlights the culinary contributions of Asian cultures in the area, the Confucius Institute which champions the common ideals of both East and West through education and partnerships, while promoting the study of Asia, and WholeRen, which seeks to develop common bonds and exchanges between China and the United States; and
WHEREAS, the Organization of Chinese Americans (OCA), which works to meet the needs of the community, promote civic goals, and preserve cultural ties, organizes an annual banquet celebrating the Lunar New Year, and
WHEREAS, the families and professionals of our Chinese community join together at this festive event to showcase what is best about their culture and accomplishments as well as other Asian societies; and
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NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby recognize and honor the Organization of Chinese Americans Annual Banquet, celebrating the Year of the Horse 4712 in the lunar calendar; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby declare February 8, 2014 to be the "Year of the Horse OCA New Year's Celebration 4712 Day" in the City of Pittsburgh.