H.R. No. 1187 R E S O L U T I O N WHEREAS, The Parkinson Voice Project of Richardson surpassed its fund-raising goal for 2012, raising more than $1.3 million; and WHEREAS, A nonprofit organization, the Parkinson Voice Project seeks to help those with Parkinson's disease and related neurological disorders by providing intensive voice therapy, follow-up support, education, research, and community awareness; and WHEREAS, Nearly a million people in the United States, including about 5,000 individuals in North Texas, are affected by Parkinson's disease, which puts them in danger of losing the ability to speak; the Parkinson Voice Project assists those suffering from the disease with its SPEAK OUT program, which works with individuals to improve vocal volume and speech articulation; and WHEREAS, In 2012, the Parkinson Voice Project raised more than double its previous year's total donations, with generous support from the Rainwater Charitable Foundation and the Pauline Allen Gill Foundation, as well as contributions from patients, family members, and others in the community; the funds are being directed toward the cost of leasing and remodeling a larger treatment facility and expanding therapy services; and WHEREAS, Ably led by founder and CEO Samantha Elandary, the Parkinson Voice Project is enhancing the quality of life of many Texans with Parkinson's disease, and it is a pleasure to recognize the staff and supporters of this outstanding organization; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 83rd Texas Legislature hereby congratulate the Parkinson Voice Project on surpassing its 2012 fund-raising goal and extend to all those associated with the project sincere best wishes for continued success with their important work; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for the organization as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives. Button ______________________________ Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 1187 was adopted by the House on April 17, 2013, by a non-record vote. ______________________________ Chief Clerk of the House