Annise D. Parker, newly-elected Mayor of the City of Houston, has proclaimed February 12, 2010 as Chinese New Year Day in Houston, Texas. 'The people of Houston are proud to join the people of China in celebrating and offer best wishes for a joyous New Year,' Parker said in a proclamation to more than two million Houstonians. The proclamation later was presented to Gao Yanping, Consul General of the People's Republic of China in Houston, on Friday. Parker said Houstonians are honored to observe the Chinese New Year of Tiger because the Tiger is a sign of courage, power, passion and royalty and reflect opportunities for growth and positive change. 'We also appreciate this time of celebration as an opportunity to learn more about the rich cultural heritage of our local Chinese and Chinese-American communities,' she said. The Spring Festival, or China's Lunar New Year which falls on Sunday this year, is China's most important annual event for family reunions. 