• A Note from Ellen
• Committing to Save Lives
• Ellen’s Widespread Support Continues
• Central Northwest Candidate Forum

A Note from Ellen

Public safety is a top priority for me. During my 18 years as President and CEO of the Houston Area Women’s Center (HAWC), I met countless individuals who were the victims of domestic and sexual violence. Day in and day out, their stories and courage continued to motivate me to make a difference. Serving over 6,000 women, children, and men annually, our impact was undoubtedly felt. But, the fight to end domestic and sexual violence continues.

Last week, the Texas Supreme Court gave officials the go-ahead to continue collecting a fee on strip clubs in the State. The bill, which I authored in 2007, is intended to direct the first $25 million in proceeds to programs that help victims of sexual assault. The remaining funds are then delegated for health care programs for uninsured people.

It was recently reported that approximately 7,000 rape kits remain untested at HPD’s lab. The City of Houston has taken early steps towards creating a regional crime lab, which will hopefully address the backlog issue. As agreed upon in a council meeting, the City will start sending about 25 DNA samples to the County’s forensic center every 2 months. While this is good news, and a step in the right direction, it does not go far enough.

Did you know that HPD graduates two cadet classes a year for approximately 140 new officers? This rate is not nearly enough to keep up with the city’s growing population and the 150 police officers who retire every year. If elected to City Council, I will work diligently to be sure Houstonians are protected, cadet classes are increased, and the backlog of DNA cases is cleared.

Sincerely,

Committing to Save Lives

Ellen partnered with Harris County Sheriff Adrian Garcia, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO), and LifeGift to promote organ and tissue donation among HCSO employees and the community. Learn More »

Ellen’s Widespread Support Continues

Ellen’s campaign for Houston City Council District C continues to garner endorsements from a diverse group of individuals and organizations including the Harris County Young Democrats, the Houston Council of Engineering Companies, and the Greater Houston Builders Association Home PAC. Read full list of endorsements »

Central Northwest Candidate Forum

The Forest West Civic Club is hosting a Candidate Forum in the northern part of District C on Monday, September 26th. The area, formerly represented by Council Member Stardig, is now part of District C. All are welcome and invited to attend. Learn More »

Listen…can you hear that? It’s the sound of a city growing. Despite the economic downturn, Houston is moving forward. Its residents have a lot to say and if we want our progress to continue, we must listen.

If a city is only as strong as its neighborhoods, we’ve got reason to be hopeful. All around us, communities are organizing and building coalitions around their issues. They are coming together to meet with leaders and to foster the collaboration between residents and elected officials.

I learned that this type of collaboration is essential as a state legislator listening to the constituents I represented then. Now, I’m reminded of it every day talking to people in District C who I hope to represent in the future.

Can you lend a hand by lending an ear and block walking this weekend?

Knocking on doors and visiting with constituents one-on-one gives me an opportunity to find out what issues are weighing on the minds of the community and also to share my vision for Houston’s future.

Will you donate a few hours of your time this weekend to help us visit with residents of District C?

I pride myself on being a problem solver. I look forward to working closely with my neighbors in District C to find solutions to the challenges we face, and to find ways to make the District strong, viable, and influential in city government.

Sincerely,

• A Note from Ellen
• H.E.B. Water Playground Grand Opening
• 2011 Houston Art Car Parade

A Note from Ellen

This morning, City Council approved a map that places my residence in District C. I am thrilled to announce that I am definitely running for the open City Council District C seat.

District C encompasses segments of my former legislative district and includes portions of the historic Heights, eclectic Montrose, the strong and stable neighborhoods of Old Braeswood, Meyerland, and South Hampton, scenic Memorial Park, and many other phenomenal neighborhoods including Oak Forest and Garden Oaks. Representing such a diverse and dynamic district is an amazing opportunity!

The redistricting process was not easy, and the city had a challenging task in trying to satisfy all of the interested parties. To those of you who are not in District C, it is true that you cannot vote for me. However, I can vote for you because my vote on City Council would affect all of you! We all want streets free of flooding, air free of pollution, and a city free of crime. If I am fortunate enough to be elected to City Council, I will work every day to ensure that Houston is a leader among the great cities in this country, and for that matter, in the world.

Sincerely,

H.E.B. Water Playground Grand Opening

Join Ellen, Friends of Jaycee Park, and other special guests this Saturday, May 21 at 10:00 a.m. as she celebrates the grand opening of the H.E.B. Water Playground at Jaycee Park. Since the initiative to improve the park began 2 years ago, over $300,000 has been raised by the community and its partners. This is a great opportunity to meet and visit members of the community.

2011 Houston Art Car Parade

Celebrate the drive to create this Sunday, May 22 at 1:00 p.m. for this fantastic, fun and free event! The parade will run down Allen Parkway from Bagby to Waugh. Come experience this truly unique event!

• A Note from Ellen
• Campaign Kickoff – Wed. March 23!
• This Month in New Media

A Note from Ellen

I am so thrilled that my good friend Jackie Martin agreed to act as treasurer for my City Council Campaign. I’ve known Jackie over 20 years and have the greatest respect for her. In 1989, Jackie and I were both volunteers for Congressman Mickey Leland. When we first met, it was August and the entire country was hoping for good news about his plane which had gone missing during a storm while en route to an Ethiopian refugee camp. Jackie and I were both in his office on that fateful day. I answered what I thought would be a routine call—it wasn’t. I received the dreaded news that the remains of the plane had been found and that all 16 people on board were dead. It was the worst possible ending to the dramatic search and Jackie and I bonded through our mutual grief. I am grateful that our friendship was able to provide a silver lining to the terribly tragic situation. Of course, we didn’t know then that I would eventually enter the world of politics and that I would ask Jackie, because of her long history of serving the community, to be my treasurer. But I did, and happily, she agreed.

Jackie, now a consultant with over 30 years experience serving the community, spent six years as president of the United Way, the largest charitable giving organization in the Houston area. Under her leadership, the United Way made enormous strides and raised the funds necessary to move into their current location on Waugh. I know Jackie will show the same enthusiasm for my campaign and I am grateful to have her as both friend and Treasurer. If you are able to make it to my kickoff next Wednesday , take a moment and introduce yourself to Jackie. You’ll be glad you did!

Sincerely,

City Council Campaign Kickoff

My City Council Campaign Kickoff is less than a week away! I hope you’ll join me on Wednesday, March 23 from 5 – 7 p.m. at Sonoma Retail Wine Bar & Restaurant located at 2720 Richmond Avenue! Bring your friends and family and enjoy refreshments. Take home Ellen Cohen for City Council t-shirts and magnets! For those of you in my Twitter family, help spread the word by using the #CohenKickoff hash tag!

This Month in New Media

If you have not yet become part of the social media craze, here is some of what you missed! This week on Facebook, my good friend Mayor Bill White took the time to clear up some confusion. He said, “Houston City Council District C candidate Brian Cweren placed my photo in a local weekly, beside the words “I’m backing Brian.” Well, no. I never talked to him about the race, but I have talked about city issues with another candidate, my friend Ellen Cohen, a public servant with integrity. There will be “big shoes to fill” in that district when Ann Clutterbuck leaves.” I appreciate the Mayor’s kind words and his friendship over the years!

The city is currently seeking feedback on the redistricting process and now it’s easier than ever to submit your own plan. A computer with the redistricting software will be set up for public use! To learn more, visit the Special Events

• A Letter from Ellen
• Ellen’s Campaign Kickoff
• Check out the new website – www.ellencohen.org!
• Facebook & Twitter Challenge!

A Letter from Ellen

In 1977, my late husband Lyon and I decided to move our family to Houston. We weren’t transferred and we didn’t have relatives or friends here. We just knew instinctively that Texas, and in particular Houston, would be a wonderful place to live and raise a family. Clearly, it was one of the best decisions we ever made!

Houstonians were so welcoming. It didn’t make a difference whether you were a new arrival or a fourth generation Texan. You were accepted if you were prepared to work hard, keep your word, and honor your obligations, and the community quickly embraced us. Our children, Marcie and Eric, graduated from Bellaire High School. Lyon and I both found rewarding work, and thanks to the skilled professionals at the Texas Medical Center, Lyon survived for 18 years following a devastating cancer diagnosis.

For 33 years, Houston has been my home and my recent experience as a State Legislator ignited in me a deep commitment and passion for public service. In keeping with that spirit, I am very excited to announce that I am running for Houston City Council, District C. The district runs from the Texas Medical Center out to Beltway 8 and from Main to the Galleria. It includes Rice University, wonderful restaurants, and thriving businesses. However, it’s important to note that as a result of Houston’s population growth, we will also be adding two new district seats, which will affect all of the present district lines. Should the new boundaries of District C affect my residency requirements, I will expand my campaign to the open At-Large city-wide position.

As you know, decisions reached by Houston City Council have an impact on all Houstonians. Whether you live within Houston city limits or just travel through them on your way to work or play, council policies undoubtedly affect you. Everyone wants the streets to be free of potholes and flooding. We all care about the quality of the air we breathe and we all want to feel safe as we move about the city.

Serving on Houston City Council would be an honor and a privilege.

Thank you in advance for your support.

Sincerely,

Join us for Ellen’s Campaign Kickoff

Join us for Ellen’s Campaign Kickoff on Wednesday, March 23 from 5 – 7 p.m. at Sonoma Retail Wine Bar & Restaurant located at 2720 Richmond Avenue! Bring your friends and family and enjoy refreshments. Take home Ellen Cohen for City Council t-shirts and magnets! For those of you in our Twitter family, help spread the word by using the #CohenKickoff hash tag!

Check Out the New Website – www.ellencohen.org

The Ellen Cohen for City Council website is up and running! The new logo is finalized and the campaign is in full gear. Check out the website and get connected with Team Cohen. You can sign up to volunteer, read all the latest news, and find out about upcoming events.

Facebook & Twitter Challenge!

Help Ellen strengthen her numbers on Facebook and Twitter! We want to reach 3,000 fans and 600 followers by the end of March. Invite your friends to “like” Ellen on Facebook and follow her on Twitter!

News

Useful Links:

• City of Houston
• 2011 Redistricting Town Hall Meetings
• Trash Pick-up Service

• Rising Cost of Homeowners Insurance
• Early Voting/Election Day Update & Links
• Women for Ellen Rally & Block Walk
• Ellen Needs YOU!!!

Ellen on the Issues

Texans pay the highest homeowners insurance rates in the nation. Take a moment and let that sentence sink in. This begs the question—why? I hear from constituents asking this exact question—why do we have some of the highest insurance rates in the country? Let me share some background information.

In the past, the process for overseeing insurance companies in the state worked differently than it does today. Before 2003, the state insurance commissioner established rates and insurers had to seek approval for rates that were outside of a specified range. Despite a legal loophole that allowed 95% of the market to sidestep this approval, insurers began to lose money as a result of a massive upswing in claims for mold. Partly because of this increase, the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) adopted a new rule that allowed insurers to dramatically reduce the coverage in the homeowner policies being offered.

The position of the insurance companies was that the reduction in coverage did not do enough to cover losses, and the industry lobbied for additional relief to lessen regulation. Senate Bill 14, passed in 2003, was a major overhaul of the property and casualty insurance market. Among other changes, this bill removed the rate approval requirement by the insurance commissioner altogether. This overhaul resulted in a significant decrease in coverage for the insured. The bottom line is that consumers are now paying more money for less coverage.

Homeowners insurance companies have little oversight in Texas. This, coupled with our high rates compared to other parts of the country, dictate a need for insurance reform. I will support legislation in the next session to require insurance companies to justify their rates and seek approval of rate increases. Rate increases should be submitted and approved by the Texas Department of Insurance. Further, I will support a bill that requires the Commissioner of Insurance to be elected by the public, not appointed by the Governor. Those paying insurance premiums should have their voices heard and this is one way it can be achieved. Insurance companies play a critical role in our state in offering protection for one of our most critical assets – our homes. I am confident we can create a solution that balances consumer protections with the needs of the insurance industry.

I look forward to addressing insurance reform in the next legislative session. I always welcome your feedback. If you have thoughts on insurance reform or other matters, please email me at ellen.cohen@house.state.tx.us.  As I prepare for the upcoming legislative session, your feedback is important.

Rep. Ellen Cohen

Vote Early! Early Voting Dates: October 18–October 29

As you may be aware, on August 27 a fire destroyed a warehouse that housed Harris County’s voting equipment. A plan was formulated and approved by the Harris County Commissioner’s Court that guarantees the County will have enough electronic voting equipment to allocate to all early voting locations as usual. The County is working to provide as many electronic voting machines as possible on Election Day, with paper ballots on hand as a backup. You are strongly encouraged to vote during Early Voting.

Remember, you can vote early at any location.

Ellen in the District

October Slideshow: Check out photos from some of Ellen’s activities this month, including the Young Professionals for Ellen event, the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, and a Town Hall to discuss the State Board of Education (SBOE).

If you would like to invite Rep. Cohen to participate in an upcoming event, please e-mail us or call (713) 627-0134.

Campaign News

Women for Ellen Rally

On Saturday, Oct. 16 from 2:00–4:00 at Sherlock’s on W. Gray, join Mayor Annise Parker and Commissioner Sylvia Garcia along with Annie’s List, EMILY’s List, and other supporters for a rally to support Ellen. The Women for Ellen Rally is being held two days before early voting starts so come out and learn more about how you can Enlist, Educate, Energize, and Engage voters for Ellen. We are asking women to speak up, reach out, and ensure that a strong voice for women returns to Austin.

Enjoy complimentary drinks, snacks and music! RSVP today on our Facebook page! I hope you can attend — bring your husband, partner, daughter, sister, friends and colleagues! All ages are welcome, men too!

Women for Ellen Block Walk

The following weekend, on Saturday, October 23 at 9 a.m., we look forward to partnering once again with the Women for Ellen” Leadership Council, Annie’s List, and EMILY’s List for the Women for Ellen Block Walk. We will meet at our Campaign Office located at 1535 West Loop South, Suite 412. This is a great opportunity to reach out to voters one-on-one and connect with them about Ellen. Help us reach our goal to have 75 women block walking for Ellen! RSVP on our facebook page!

Calling All Volunteers! Ellen needs YOU!

Since the launch of the campaign, Team Cohen has knocked on over 6,500 doors, delivered over 1,700 yard signs, and held 50+ events all over the District. What is most impressive about these numbers is that we rely on our wonderful volunteer base to achieve these results. Over the final 4 weeks of the campaign, we will be knocking on even more doors and making thousands of phone calls to ensure that Ellen returns to Austin in January.

Please take a few quick moments to view and sign up for our current volunteer opportunities. Thank you for your support!

Important Election Dates & Links:

• First day of Early Voting: Oct. 18
• Last day to apply for Ballot by Mail: Oct. 26 (must be received, not merely postmarked).
• Last day of Early Voting: Oct. 29
• Election Day: Nov. 2
• Vote Texas
• Check Your Voter Registration
• See Your Sample Ballot
• Vote by Mail (Deadline: Oct. 26)
• Early Voting Q&A

• Women for Ellen Website Launched
• Ellen’s Birthday Bash
• State Board of Education Town Hall

Ellen on the Issues

The right to vote is a powerful privilege. It allows us to decide which issues are important and which officials can best represent our stance on those issues. It gives us the opportunity to set priorities and shape society. It is why so many have marched for, fought for, and even died for the right to vote.

This month marks the 90th anniversary of the ratification of the Nineteenth Amendment which finally gave women the right to vote. The battle, which began when a group of 5 women invited the public to the First Women’s Rights Convention in Seneca Falls, New York, was a hard fought one. Large suffrage marches, parades and demonstrations were organized, and many women were jailed. Susan B. Anthony was arrested and found guilty of voting illegally. Alice Paul and many other women were arrested for “obstructing traffic” following months of picketing in front of the White House. In jail they were beaten and forced to live in unsanitary conditions. After the women instituted a hunger strike, many were brutally force fed several times a day, and Paul was even transferred to the psychiatric ward in the hope that she would be declared insane. These brave women literally fought with their blood, sweat and tears. It was an important victory for them as they fought for equality on all fronts. However, the struggle for other minorities to gain voting rights would continue for decades.

Last week, I announced the launch of the Women for Ellen website, which was created as part of the Women for Ellen initiative. I am honored that supporters in my district found my work on women’s issues important enough to create this community. As we remember those who fought for women’s equality this month, I encourage everyone, not just women, to visit the website. It has often been said that men of quality are not threatened by women seeking equality. I hope that everyone seeking equality for all will make sure their voice is heard on Tuesday November 2.

State Representative Ellen Cohen

Environmental Links

Vote Texas

Secretary of State

Harris County Voter Registration Department

Campaign News

Ellen’s Birthday, BBQ and Yard Sign Bash

Yard signs are here just in time for Ellen’s birthday, and we’re going to have a party to celebrate! We will be serving BBQ with all the “fixins” and of course, birthday cake. The festivities take place from 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 21 at Southside Place Clubhouse located at 3743 Garnet. It’s a great opportunity to say hello to Ellen and pick up your yard signs, bumper magnets, and t-shirts. If you have a visible place in the District where we can display a larger 4 x 4 yard sign, please just let us know and we will handle the install. Email Dave Bonem at dave@ellencohen.org or call 713.838.0134. We hope to see everyone on the 21st!

Upcoming Town Hall – A Discussion on the SBOE

On Wednesday, September 29 from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m., Ellen will host a town hall meeting at the Houston Community College West Loop Center located at 5601 West Loop South. The meeting will address issues affecting the State Board of Education, which will be meeting one week prior to the town hall. Panelists include:

• Representative Scott Hochberg, Vice Chair of the House Committee on Public Education
• Honorable Lawrence Allen, Vice Chair of the State Board of Education
• Kathy Miller, President of Texas Freedom Network
• Angela Miller, Manager of Secondary Social Studies Curriculum for the Houston Independent School District
• Sharon Pope, Director of Publications for Texas Council for the Social Studies.

Please join us to discuss your issues and concerns with our participants. We look forward to a great turnout!

Watch the
August Slideshow!

Check out photos from some of the activities in which Ellen participated this month! They include attending the signing of a partnership between HCC’s Coleman College & UT School of Nursing at Houston, a Meet & Greet at the House of Coffee Beans, hosting a listening session with local realtors, and much more.

If you would like to invite Rep. Cohen to participate in an upcoming event, please email us or call (713) 627-0134.

View Rep. Cohen’s event calendar.

• EPA Invalidates TCEQ Permits
• Ellen’s Birthday Bash
• Calling Blockwalkers!

Ellen on the Issues

The Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) recent invalidation of permits issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) has raised ire, support, and questions. I firmly believe for the good of the state of Texas and the health of its people, the two entities must work together. When the EPA is the largest environmental agency in the world and TCEQ the second largest, the need for conversation and collaboration is imperative.

The reason for the invalidation of over 120 permits is that the EPA rejects Texas’ use of “flexible permits.” Flexible permits essentially put a cap on overall emissions of a facility, but allow leeway for various units within that plant. The EPA believes that this permitting system does not live up to the requirements of the Clean Air Act. The TCEQ believes that the flexible permitting system is in compliance with federal laws, and claims that the EPA is interfering with state’s rights.

While the problems are complex, facts and figures rather than finger-pointing will lead us to viable solutions. The ramifications are many, including our quality of life, our children’s health, and our ability to attract businesses. TCEQ will be under a routine review process by the Sunset Advisory Commission later this year. Please contact members of the Sunset Commission and share your thoughts

Please email me at info@ellencohen.org to let me know your thoughts on possible solutions and your concerns

State Representative Ellen Cohen

Environmental Links

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ)

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

Environmental Defense Fund

Sierra Club

Air Alliance

Campaign News

Save the Date – Ellen’s Birthday, BBQ, and Yard Sign Bash

Join Ellen, her family, friends, and supporters for the celebration. Please drop by for BBQ and to pick up your Ellen Cohen yard sign. You won’t want to miss the fun!

The event takes place on Saturday, August 21, 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Southside Place Clubhouse located at 3743 Garnet. If you can’t make the party but want a yard sign, email Dave Bonem at dave@ellencohen.org or call 713.838.0134.

Blockwalkers Needed!

Join us each Saturday in July for blockwalking District 134. We meet at 1535 West Loop South, Suite 412, at 9:00 a.m. First is an orientation, then we blockwalk for no more than 90 minutes, and finally we end with a debriefing. You will definitely be finished by noon. With four blockwalks behind us, we’ve already knocked on more than 1000 doors. You can make that number grow! For more information email Dave Bonem at dave@ellencohen.org or call 713.838.0134.

Serving in the Legislature, meetings with constituents, speaking engagements, and attending events in District 134 are what Ellen enjoys doing most. Check out photos from some of the activities in which Ellen’s participated this month! They include a trip to Lamar University in Beaumont, the Pride Parade, a tour of the UT Health Stem Cell Research Lab, house parties at the homes of Jim & Beverly Postl and Drs. George & Cindy Santos, and much more.

If you would like to invite Rep. Cohen to participate in an upcoming event, please email us or call (713) 627-0134.

See Ellen participating in Austin during an Appropriations Subcommittee on Health and Human Services June 14-15.

View Rep. Cohen’s event calendar.

• Reflections on Reasoned Discourse
• Scholarships Available
• Photos from Campaign Office Open House
• Blockwalking Begins!

Update from Ellen

When offered the option between contentious public debate and reasoned discourse, I always choose the latter. I am confident that getting things done in the Texas House is not about pointing fingers, not about making people afraid. It’s about respecting those who may not agree with everything I believe and working through our differences. The next session will bring incredible challenges with a projected budget deficit of $18 billion. We will need to make hard decisions understanding that people’s lives are deeply impacted by our choices.

A good example of the reasoned discourse I’m describing took place during my first term in 2007. Legislation, often described as Jessica’s Law, was introduced as a result of the 2005 abduction, sexual assault, and murder of 9-year-old Jessica Lunsford in Florida. The bill provided that if a child is a victim of aggravated sexual assault by a previously convicted sex offender then the offense could be punishable as a capital felony. At face value, this bill “looked good on paper,” as do so many under consideration.

I was outraged by Jessica’s assault and murder—as were my colleagues. But the suggested recourse concerned me deeply. With 18 years of experience at the Houston Area Women’s Center (HAWC) dealing with victims of sexual and domestic violence, I knew that approximately 90% of sexually abused children are abused by family members. What girl or boy who is sexually assaulted by a family member is then going to be able to testify knowing that their testimony could put Uncle Bill, Cousin Bob, or Granddad to death? Those of us who opposed the law felt it would re-victimize the victims.

Prosecutors and law enforcement agreed and also suggested that the availability of the death penalty would decrease reporting in rape cases and might lead some perpetrators to kill their victims to keep them from testifying.

In the end, even though many of my colleagues agreed with the reasoned response that I and others presented, they couldn’t vote in such a way that they felt would make them appear soft on crime. The bill passed 122-17. In 2008, however, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down a similar Louisiana law that allowed the death penalty for the sexual assault of a child younger than 12 and, thus, invalidated the death penalty provision in Jessica’s Law.

As I reflect on my approach to Jessica’s Law, I know that my vote represented the right decision to truly protect children. As I consider the upcoming session with the extraordinary deficit and difficult decisions that will be required, I will continue my commitment to protecting the youngest and most vulnerable among us.

I know, at times, some of my votes may not be politically advantageous, but for District 134, I am more concerned about making good laws than making headlines. I welcome your feedback on this and any other issues of concern. Please email me at info@ellencohen.org.

State Representative Ellen Cohen

Ellen in the District

Blockwalking Begins!

The Campaign Office open house was a full morning that included visits from familiar faces and new volunteers. Next on the campaign agenda is our upcoming blockwalk. Scheduled for 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, June 12, the walk will begin at the Campaign Office location at 1535 West Loop South, Suite 412. An orientation and all supplies will be provided. For more information or to volunteer, please email dave@ellencohen.org or call 713.838.0134.

Helpful Links

Hurricane season begins June 1. You can find a hurricane preparation checklist at ready.gov.

To view Appropriations and Higher Education Committee meetings online, go to www.house.state.tx.us/media. Upcoming meetings for Rep. Cohen are June 14-15.

Learn more about Women for Ellen!

Sign up to volunteer or host a house party!

Donate to the campaign!

Constituent Services

View Previous Editions of Cohen Connection

News

SBOE Update

The State Board of Education’s (SBOE) final vote on the new social studies standards has drawn nationwide attention. With board members voting on hundreds of changes to social studies standards without the presence of a historian, economist or any other social studies expert in the room to advise them, the ensuing outcry is justified. You can read a minute-by-minute account of the debate on the Texas Freedom Network’s blog at www.tfninsider.org.

Save The Date! On September 22, Rep. Cohen is planning a Town Hall Meeting focusing on the SBOE and needed changes. Location and details will be forthcoming in future issues of the Cohen Connection.

Scholarships Available

Two scholarship opportunities have come to the attention of the District 134 office.

The Urban Scholarship Fund is for graduating high school seniors and/or new and returning college students attending any accredited nonprofit college, university or technical school. Amounts vary from $700 to $2000. The deadline to apply is July 6, 2010. For information or an application, visit the Texas Association of Developing Colleges website.

America’s Promise Alliance and AT&T have launched the “My Idea Grants Program” which will benefit students who offer ideas to help increase a community’s graduation rate. National grants of $10,000 – $20,000 will be awarded to 25 young people across the U.S. Grants of $500 – $1500 are available to support local projects in urban areas including Houston. Applications are available here and are due June 11, 2010.

Child Advocates Needed

Child Advocates, Inc., located in the heart of District 134, is Houston’s leader in providing critical advocacy for Harris County’s most severely abused children. Since its inception, Child Advocates has provided life-saving support to more than 16,000 abused children. Volunteers are needed to serve as court appointed advocates, guiding the children and helping to break the vicious cycle of child abuse.

For more information, attend an event listed online at www.childadvocates.org or plan to participate in a one-hour orientation. Dates are included on the website.

Events in the District

Serving in the Legislature, meetings with constituents, speaking engagements, and attending events in District 134 are what Rep. Cohen enjoys doing most. Below is a partial list of recent activities. Those marked with * are linked to online photo albums.

• Serving as honorary starter for the ACHIEVE Triathlon at the Jewish Community Center *
• Presenting a flag at a West University Little League Celebration of players receiving the Senior World Series Championship rings *
• Speaking to the Greater Houston Partnership
• Hosting Appropriations Forum with Chairman Jim Pitts *
• Presenting proclamation to Jerry Wische, retiring executive vice president of the Jewish Community Center
• Presenting award to Sherry Merfish at the Houston Area Women’s Center Gala
• Speaking at the graduation ceremonies of Texas Southern University and the Harris County Hospital District’s School of Diagnostic Imaging*
• Participating in the park and field dedication at Poe Elementary *
• Speaking to the Women’s Finance Exchange *
• Hosting the Campaign Office Open House *
• Attending the Human Rights Campaign Gala *
• Participating in the Baylor College of Medicine Commencement
• Meeting supporters at the Young Professionals for Ellen event *
• Touring Holcombe Life Sciences Plaza *
• Celebrating 40 years of cancer survivorship at the 20th anniversary CanCare Survivors Luncheon *
• Participating in the Texas Council on Economic Education *
• Cutting ribbon at the Colonial Park Pool opening *

If you would like to invite Rep. Cohen to participate in an upcoming event, please email us or call (713) 627-0134.

View Rep. Cohen’s event calendar.

• Saving Lives Through Organ Donation
• Appropriations Forum This Thursday, May 6 — Upper Kirby District Center
• Join the Movement — Join Women for Ellen Today
• Texas Constitution and Statutes Website Updated to Reflect New Laws

Update from Ellen

Thank you to the more than 150 supporters who joined me as we kicked off the 2010 campaign. The Chocolate Bar made the event even “sweeeeter.” We have great pictures of the event — check out the photo album on Flickr. My deep gratitude goes to Mayor Annise Parker, Southside Place Mayor Richard Rothfelder, and West University Councilmember Steve Segal for participating.

Many of you have asked how you can get involved with my campaign. You can help in so many ways:

• Volunteering in the campaign office
• Hosting a house party
• Blockwalking
• Spreading the word by forwarding the Cohen Connection and posting a link of the newsletter to your Facebook and Twitter page
• Contributing. Your financial support is always appreciated!

While the campaign is definitely underway, I continue my daily work as your State Representative. In the last issue of the Cohen Connection, I expressed my concerns about the State Board of Education (SBOE). If you didn’t see that article, please click here. To stay up-to-date on the SBOE controversy and learn more about how you can take action, visit the Texas Freedom Network’s website.

This month, I’d like to address another important issue. I recently received an update noting that Texas has more than 9.000 people on a waiting list for life-saving transplants. In fact, our state ranks last among all 50 states in the number of registered organ and tissue donors above the age of 18, according to Donate Life Texas.

Despite continuing efforts via public education, myths about donations persist. LifeGift, a not-for-profit organ procurement organization that recovers organs and tissues for individuals needing transplants in 109 Texas counties, addresses many of these myths on www.lifegift.org . Donate Life America, the educational counterpart of the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS), has launched Donate Life-Houston which works in conjunction with LifeGift to increase awareness about organ donation in the City of Houston.

We need to continue to educate the community about the critical need for organ and tissue donation. Some individuals may think it is a time-consuming process to register. However, in 2005, Texas joined 40 other states by creating its own state donor registry — the Glenda P. Dawson Donate Life Texas Registry — so registering takes only minutes. You can get further information at the Donate Life Texas site.

Another misconception is tied to religion. Did you know that most major religions encourage organ and tissue donation? (Click here for an overview of religious viewpoints.) However, I understand that some people have religious concerns, and I certainly respect their positions.

What is your perspective on organ donation? Do you have a personal story you would like to share? What are your suggestions for creating awareness and encouraging dialogue. Please email me your thoughts at info@ellencohen.org.

Thank you for the honor of representing District 134,

State Representative Ellen Cohen

Ellen in the District

Reminder: Appropriations Forum Scheduled for Thursday, May 6

Rep. Jim Pitts, Waxahachie Appropriations Committee Chair Jim Pitts will address the Texas appropriations process and the budgetary challenges facing the state currently and in the next legislative session in an Appropriations Forum hosted by State Rep. Ellen Cohen. The forum is scheduled for Thursday, May 6, from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m., at the Upper Kirby District Center, 3015 Richmond Ave., 77098.

Rep. Cohen, who serves alongside Chairman Pitts on the Appropriations Committee, will follow his remarks with a facilitated discussion. The public is invited to participate in the 90–minute forum.

Drop By the Campaign Office Open House — May 22

Please join us for coffee and pastries — and take home a bumper magnet and your 2010 campaign t-shirt — when you stop in at the Campaign Office Open House on May 22, from 9:00 to 11:30 a.m. The office is located at 1535 West Loop South, Ste. 412 77027. You don’t have to wait until the open house to volunteer. We can use your help now, so if you want to be added to our volunteer roster, please click here.

Helpful Links

The Texas State Historical Association Online — a digital gateway to Texas History

This Week in Texas History — a 60-second weekly radio feature from the Save Texas History program

Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board — includes information on the Closing the Gaps Higher Education Plan and applying and paying for college

81st Legislature’s General Appropriations Act

Learn more about the Committees on which Rep. Cohen serves:

• Appropriations Committee
• Higher Education Committee
• House Select Committee on Federal Legislation

Constituent Services

Learn More About Women for Ellen

Sign Up to Host a House Party

Donate to the Campaign

View Previous Editions of Cohen Connection

News

New Initiative to Educate, Enlist, Engage!

Women provided Ellen with the decisive margin of victory in 2006 and 2008. For Ellen to win in 2010, women across the political spectrum must cast their ballots for her once again. The newly formed Women for Ellen Leadership Council — chaired by Sherry Merfish with event chair Bobbie Nau — is asking women to speak up, reach out, and ensure that a strong voice for women returns to Austin.

Please visit the Women for Ellen website to learn more about Ellen’s record on issues important to women and to see video testimonials from some of the Women for Ellen Leadership Council on why they support Ellen. You can also join Women for Ellen and then help enlist others and encourage all women to engage by contributing, volunteering with the campaign and especially getting the vote out in November.

A sample enlistment email is also available, as well as Women for Ellen t-shirts. For more information visit Women for Ellen, call 713.838.0134 or email info@ellencohen.org.

Many thanks go to Sherry Merfish, Bobbie Nau and host Poppi Massey for their generous support of the Women for Ellen Leadership Council event.

View Photos »

Statutes Website Updated

The Texas Legislative Council is pleased to announce that the Texas Constitution and Statutes website has been updated to include statutes passed during the regular and first called sessions of the 81st Legislature and constitutional amendments approved by the voters in November 2009. When the council was unable to resolve a conflict or contingency, an explanatory statement was provided. If you have questions, please use the Contact tab on the website to access a convenient feedback form.

Events in the District

Below is a partial list of Rep. Cohen’s recent activities. Click on the links to see photos on Flickr.

• Memorial Park Conservancy Fun Run and Kids’ K
• Memorial Hermann Trauma/LifeFlight Tour
• United Way’s Finance and Human Resource Forum
• University of Texas at Dallas
• Children’s Defense Fund 2010 Awards Dinner
• Texas Holocaust and Genocide Commission meeting
• AT&T Meyerland Grand Opening Benefitting Air Alliance
• West Montrose Management District Informational Gathering
• West University Elementary 4th Grade
• Israel’s Independence Day Celebration
• Houston Executive Roundtable
• Houston Pediatric Hospice Luncheon
• Methodist Hospital’s Inaugural Collaborative Research and Evidence Based Practice Conference
• Mental Health America of Greater Houston 2010 Spirit of Hope Awards
• Children’s Assessment Center Awards Reception
• Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas Tools for Texans
• Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
• Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Planned Parenthood
• The Council on Alcohol and Drugs Houston 27th Annual Spring Luncheon
• Texas Lyceum (speaking)
• Flag Presentation at the Dedication of New Southside Place City Hall
• 2010 Campaign Kick-off
• University of Texas System Reception
• Houston City Hall Fellows
• Childhood Obesity Conference
• Forum on Education with U.S. Department of Education Secretary Arne Duncan

If you would like Rep. Cohen to participate in an upcoming event, please email or call (713) 627-0134.

View Rep. Cohen’s event calendar