obama commemorates the year of the ox

To commemorate the new year, President Barack Obama released the following statement celebrating the Year of the Ox:

"I send my warmest wishes to people across Asia, in America, and indeed around the world who are celebrating the Lunar New Year and welcoming the Year of the Ox. As they gather with their families and celebrate over meals, they welcome new beginnings and honor the enduring wisdom of their ancestors.

"From the lion dances in San Francisco to festivals in Atlanta and parades in New York City and Washington, D.C., Americans of Asian descent carry on the vibrant traditions of their forefathers and enrich America's cultural diversity. I wish all those celebrating the New Year to be blessed with peace, prosperity, and good health."

One noteworthy fact the President neglects to mention -- he too, is an Ox. Obama was born in 1961, the Year of the Ox. I'd say his year is off to a pretty good start.