Designating the week of Monday, October 5, 2009 through Monday, October 12, 2009 as "Christopher Columbus Week" in celebration of the festivities commemorating Columbus' historic voyage to the New World.

WHEREAS, Five hundred and seventeen years ago, a courageous Italian visionary set out on what would become one of the most momentous journeys in the annals of history. Christopher Columbus and the maps he charted to the “New World” were guiding lights to every ship that came to America; and

WHEREAS,

The annual Philadelphia Columbus Day Parade began in South Philadelphia in 1957, and has since become one of the City's premier ethnic celebrations. On October 11, 2009, the Philadelphia Columbus Day Committee will host the annual parade. In addition to the active participation of the Delaware Valley's Italian American community, the Philadelphia Columbus Day parade tradition includes the world famous Philadelphia Mummers string bands, outstanding high school and elementary school marching bands, and many other marching groups representing the various ethnic traditions of our great City. The parade seeks to foster a spirit of multi-culturalism and respect for people of all ethnic backgrounds; and

WHEREAS, The Columbus Day festivities include a gala dinner and and an Italian Festival showcasing the culture and cuisine of the people of Italy. The annual Italian festival takes place at Marconi Plaza the day of the parade and includes food, dance, and music from the many diverse regions of Italy.

NOW THEREFORE, RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That we hereby designate the week of October 5, 2009 through October 12, 2009 as "Christopher Columbus Week".

FURTHER RESOLVED,

That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to the Philadelphia Columbus Day Committee as evidence of the sincere sentiments of this legislative body.

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