H.R. No. 88 R E S O L U T I O N WHEREAS, The Abu Dhabi, Baku, Istanbul, and Karachi Sister City Associations are joining with other organizations to host the Houston Iftar annual Ramadan dinner with Mayor Annise Parker on July 27, 2013; and WHEREAS, The ninth and holiest month of the Islamic calendar, Ramadan is a time for prayer, reflection, and sacrifice; the faithful demonstrate compassion through good deeds and charitable giving, and they change their daily routine to gain perspective on their own lives and achieve greater spiritual understanding; and WHEREAS, The strong Sister City relationships Houston enjoys are a powerful reflection of its status as one of the world's most diverse municipalities; fittingly, the Houston Iftar not only celebrates solidarity and unity among Muslim organizations and religious groups, but also provides an opportunity for Texans to come together with those of other faiths, recognizing shared values and expressing mutual respect; and WHEREAS, This joyous and inclusive event promotes fellowship and deepens understanding and appreciation for the rich cultural heritage that makes Houston such a vibrant and welcoming city; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 83rd Texas Legislature, 2nd Called Session, hereby commemorate the 2013 Houston Iftar and extend to all those in attendance sincere best wishes for a meaningful observance; and, be it further RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for the organizers of the Houston Iftar as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives. Wu ______________________________ Speaker of the House I certify that H.R. No. 88 was adopted by the House on July 25, 2013, by a non-record vote. ______________________________ Chief Clerk of the House