Dar Al-Taqwa Hosts New County Exec, Elected Officials

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On Sunday, February 8, 2015, newly elected Howard County Executive Allan Kittleman took the podium in front of about 70 Howard County Muslims including the Dar Al-Taqwa board. "Assalamu'alykum," he began.

"This is not a new place for me, I've been here many times," he told the small invitation only gathering to connect local elected officials with the Muslim community.

Kittleman said both Dar Al-Taqwa and Howard County have prioritized education. He thanked Muslim businesses and professionals for "helping the economy of Howard County" and, acknowledging the distance between Muslims and his Republican affiliation,  said "we're all together regardless of how we voted."

After a recition of the Qur'an by community youth Yahya Sidky, board members and guests took the podium for short remarks on Dar Al-Taqwa's mission and goals, and some on-going projects that need support from elected officials like the establishment of a daycare center, full-time school, and expanded parking.

President of the Board Adnan Khan introduced all the elected officials present including state delegates, county council members, and education board officials.

Khan said about 2,500 Muslims utilize the services of Dar Al-Taqwa each week.

Dr. Maqbool Patel led a communal prayer, asking the audience to bow their heads, praying that "God clear our hearts from arrogance and hypocrisy, and bless us with patience and understanding." Dinner was served and some members were recognized to close the program.

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