engelhart4judge.com 2012

Thoughts on the Beginning of the School Year

2011-08-27T22:18:00.000-05:00

My boys have returned to school after a terrific Summer. They spent 3 weeks in sleepaway camp. Eva & I celebrated our 15th wedding anniversary (belatedly) and we even got in a fishing expedition to Galveston.

One of these things is not like the other . . .

The rest of the bar is finishing up its summer, too, and our trial dockets are burgeoning.

I just want to say how excited to take on the 151st's Fall dockets. As I always say, my job is really great. I look forward to continuing to serve as a civil district court judge this year and next, and hopefully for many more years to come.

I need your help to make that happen. Please join our campaign by entering your info above. Consider making a contribution, too, as campaigns cost money. Head over to our Facebook page and please "Like" that, too, HERE.

I pledge to continue to rule on your motions quickly. I promise to continue to use my experience as a board certified litigator to see the larger picture, and to shepherd your case through our system fairly and efficiently. Please lend a hand to our efforts today. Thanks, Mike.

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Mike, Joey & Zachy March in Bellaire July 4th Parade!

2011-07-06T22:42:00.000-05:00

Mike and his two boys marched with the Bellaire Democrats in the 4th of July Parade! Joey valiantly carried the banner with Dad for most of the parade, while Zachy threw beads to the cheering crowd. Happy Birthday USA!

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Announcing Updated Steering Committee for 2012 Re-Election Campaign

2011-06-23T20:11:00.002-05:00

Mike Engelhart is very proud to announce his updated Re-Elect Judge Mike Engelhart 2012 Steering Committee. Many of Houston's most well-known and accomplished attorneys and business people are part of this committee. The campaign could not possibly be prouder of this group and its willingness to help with Mike's re-election. As of press time, this committee, which is still growing, includes:

Adams,Will
Agosto, Benny, Jr.
Alexander, Joe
Allen, Brandon T.
Altsuler, Kent
Anaipakos, Demetrios
Arellano, Lee
Arreola, Marrissa & Antroy
Atlas, Scott J.
Banks, Kris
Barnes, Thomas
Barrera, Ricky
Barton, Alla & Dan
Baumann, Monique
Bell, Chris
Bennett, Ann
Bennett, Jennifer & Mark
Bennett, Robin
Berg, David
Binderim, Gary
Boudreaux, Olan
Boyd, Larry
Bragg, Melanie
Brain, Allan
Brown, Tom
Bryant, Donna Hackemack
Carter, Amy
Carter, Eric William
Clearman, Scott
Coronado, Carolyn
Cox, Collin
Danziger, Paul
David, Isabel & Danny
Dean, J. Christopher
Dow, Sanford L.
Doyle, Mike
Drews, Karl
Dyer, Patrick J.
Elias, Todd
Fass, Richard T.
Fisher, Joe J.
Floyd, Katie
Forestier, Tom
Freeman, Ernest
Ganucheau, Tom
Gardner, Barbara J.
Gardner, Michael B.
Gibbs, Robin
Gibson, George
Gibson, Jason
Goldberg, Daniel J.
Golub, Andrew S.
Golub, Jeff M.
Gonzalez, Maria C., Ph.D.
Goodman, Maxine
Gorczynski, John C.
Greenwood Prather, Kelly
Greenwood, Sean
Greer, Jennifer H.
Griffin, Martha
Hall, Benjamin
Hanslik, Chris
Hardaway, Jeffrey
Hargis, Hal
Harris, Jonathan
Harris, Warren
Harrison, Lauren & Geoffrey
Hicks, Pamela
Hinojosa, J.L. "Larry"
Hodgson, Anne
Hoffman, Kevin
Horowitz, III, Daniel D.
Houston, Sam
Howard, C. Elaine
Hughes, Carlos, Jr.
Hughes, Laura
Jackson, Loren
Johnson, Andrea "AJ"
Johnson, Betsy
Kamin, Betsy
Kaplan, Alexander L.
Kaplan, Richard
Kerner, Debra
Kherker, Steven
Kidd, Don
King, Lee Keller
Kreindler, Mitch
Kretzer, Seth
LeBlanc, Jared
Levin, Alan F.
Lewis, Ron
Mahendru, Ashish
Manne, Neal
Marshall, Diana E.
Mattheisen, Dave
McCleary, Roger L.
McConnico, Kate
Miller, Adam
Mintz, Silvia
Mithoff, Richard
Moll, Stefanie & Douglas K.
Moser, Bert
Mostyn, Amber Anderson
Mullin, Michele P.
Mumey, Jane Johnston
Nathan, Marvin
Neff, Sabrina
Newport, Jeffrey R.
Nolen, Rand
Odam, John
Oliver-Parrott, Alice
Padilla, Elizabeth & John
Peckham, Charles H.
Perdue, Jr., Nicole & Jim M.
Pool, Jenifer Rene
Post, Russell
Prather, Mike
Presnal, Justin
Puente, Sandra
Radnofsky, Barbara Ann
Raizner, Jeff
Ramos, Dion
Reasoner, Susan & Barrett
Reeder, Jim
Referente, J. Anthony
Remels, Keith
Ricca, Linda
Riley, Tim
Roden, Joe M.
Rodriquez, James
Rojas, Rachal
Rounsavall, Rachel
Rosenbaum, Glen
Rothman, Marcy L.
Rubin, Stephan
Saxe, Maria & Gregg
Scamardi, Joey
Shellist, Marty
Siegel, Bettina & Martin
Singh, Manpreet
Slovacek, Joe
Sorrels, Randy
St. Clair, Carolyn
Steed, Christian A.
Taylor, Beth & Warren
Todd, Alton
Trachtenberg, Mark
Vethan, Charles
Vidor, Erik
Vujasinovic, Vuk
Waldman, Steve
Walton, Gib
Wardell, Ronald
Weems, Jeff
Wilshire, Eugene B., Jr.
Yeates, Marie
Zavitsanos, John
Zimmerman, Brian

Thank you very much to each and every one of you for helping Mike kick off his 2012 re-election campaign with such an incredible array of supporters.

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, P.O. Box 56386, Houston, Texas 77256 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

July 12, 2011 Event - Re-Election Kickoff @ Mai's Restaurant Midtown!

2011-06-08T22:22:00.002-05:00

Please come to Judge Mike Engelhart's Campaign Kickoff at the newly re-opened Mai's. Here's the Facebook Event Link. We're celebrating (1) the kickoff of Mike's 2012 re-election campaign, (2) the unveiling of our 2012 website that will be at www.JudgeEngelhart.com, and (3) Mike's 41st birthday! It'll be fun, and you know you want to see what the new Mai's looks like!

For those with no Facebook access/desire, here's the info:

What: Mike's 2012 Re-Election Campaign Kickoff

When: Tuesday, July 12, 2011, 5pm to 7pm

Where: Mai's Restaurant, 3403 Milam, Houston, Texas

Who: You!

We're looking forward to seeing you there.

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Fundraising for 2012 Starts Monday, June 6, 2011

2011-06-06T00:01:00.004-05:00

Fundraising for Mike's 2012 Re-Election Campaign starts Monday, June 6, 2011. Please Tweet or Facebook "like" this blog entry and share it with your friends so they can click on the red "Donate Now" button to the right and help support Mike's 2012 re-election. We'd be grateful. Thanks!

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Re-Elect Judge Mike Engelhart 2012 Steering Committee Announced!

2011-06-05T20:26:00.035-05:00

Mike Engelhart is very proud to announce the formation of the Re-Elect Judge Mike Engelhart 2012 Steering Committee. Many of Houston's most well-known and accomplished attorneys and business people are part of this committee. The campaign could not possibly be prouder of this group and its willingness to help with Mike's re-election. As of press time, this committee, which is still growing, includes:

Adams,Will
Agosto, Benny, Jr.
Alexander, Joe
Allen, Brandon T.
Altsuler, Kent
Anaipakos, Demetrios
Arellano, Lee
Arreola, Marrissa & Antroy
Atlas, Scott J.
Banks, Kris
Barnes, Thomas
Barrera, Ricky
Barton, Alla & Dan
Baumann, Monique
Bell, Chris
Bennett, Ann
Bennett, Jennifer & Mark
Bennett, Robin
Berg, David
Binderim, Gary
Boudreaux, Olan
Boyd, Larry
Bragg, Melanie
Brain, Allan
Brown, Tom
Bryant, Donna Hackemack
Carter, Amy
Carter, Eric William
Clearman, Scott
Coronado, Carolyn
Danziger, Paul
David, Isabel & Danny
Dean, J. Christopher
Dow, Sanford L.
Doyle, Mike
Drews, Karl
Dyer, Patrick J.
Elias, Todd
Fass, Richard T.
Fisher, Joe J.
Floyd, Katie
Forestier, Tom
Freeman, Ernest
Ganucheau, Tom
Gardner, Barbara J.
Gardner, Michael B.
Gibbs, Robin
Gibson, George
Gibson, Jason
Goldberg, Daniel J.
Golub, Andrew S.
Golub, Jeff M.
Gonzalez, Maria C., Ph.D.
Goodman, Maxine
Gorczynski, John C.
Greenwood Prather, Kelly
Greenwood, Sean
Greer, Jennifer H.
Griffin, Martha
Hall, Benjamin
Hanslik, Chris
Hardaway, Jeffrey
Hargis, Hal
Harris, Jonathan
Harris, Warren
Harrison, Lauren & Geoffrey
Hicks, Pamela
Hinojosa, J.L. "Larry"
Hodgson, Anne
Hoffman, Kevin
Horowitz, III, Daniel D.
Houston, Sam
Howard, C. Elaine
Hughes, Carlos, Jr.
Hughes, Laura
Jackson, Loren
Johnson, Andrea "AJ"
Johnson, Betsy
Kamin, Betsy
Kaplan, Alexander L.
Kaplan, Richard
Kerner, Debra
Kherker, Steven
Kidd, Don
King, Lee Keller
Kreindler, Mitch
Kretzer, Seth
LeBlanc, Jared
Levin, Alan F.
Lewis, Ron
Mahendru, Ashish
Manne, Neal
Marshall, Diana E.
Mattheisen, Dave
McConnico, Kate
Miller, Adam
Mintz, Silvia
Mithoff, Richard
Moll, Stefanie & Douglas K.
Moser, Bert
Mostyn, Amber Anderson
Mullin, Michele P.
Mumey, Jane Johnston
Nathan, Marvin
Neff, Sabrina
Newport, Jeffrey R.
Nolen, Rand
Odam, John
Oliver-Parrott, Alice
Padilla, Elizabeth & John
Peckham, Charles H.
Perdue, Jr., Nicole & Jim M.
Pool, Jenifer Rene
Post, Russell
Prather, Mike
Presnal, Justin
Puente, Sandra
Radnofsky, Barbara Ann
Raizner, Jeff
Ramos, Dion
Reasoner, Susan & Barrett
Reeder, Jim
Referente, J. Anthony
Remels, Keith
Ricca, Linda
Riley, Tim
Roden, Joe M.
Rodriquez, James
Rojas, Rachal
Rounsavall, Rachel
Rosenbaum, Glen
Rothman, Marcy L.
Rubin, Stephan
Saxe, Maria & Gregg
Scamardi, Joey
Shellist, Marty
Siegel, Bettina & Martin
Singh, Manpreet
Slovacek, Joe
Sorrels, Randy
St. Clair, Carolyn
Steed, Christian A.
Taylor, Beth & Warren
Todd, Alton
Trachtenberg, Mark
Vethan, Charles
Vidor, Erik
Vujasinovic, Vuk
Waldman, Steve
Walton, Gib
Wardell, Ronald
Weems, Jeff
Wilshire, Eugene B., Jr.
Yeates, Marie
Zavitsanos, John
Zimmerman, Brian

Thank you very much to each and every one of you for helping Mike kick off his 2012 re-election campaign with such an incredible array of supporters.

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

CLE Presentation in San Antonio a Success

2011-05-06T18:16:00.000-05:00

Mike just returned from San Antonio where he addressed the State Bar of Texas Collections & Creditors' Rights seminar. The topic was Ethics and Collection Law. This was the second year in a row Mike was invited to address this conference. The speech was a success, and the paper Mike prepared will be available on the State Bar's website next month.

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Mike Invited to Address Civil Trial & Appellate Specialists Association

2011-04-23T15:21:00.003-05:00

On the evening of Thursday, April 21, 2011, Mike addressed the Texas Association of Civil Trial and Appellate Specialists (TACTAS). Mike had presided over the trial of Koonce v. Brennan's et al. in January 2011. The case arose out of a fire at Brennan's Restaurant in Houston on the night that Hurricane Ike hit Houston, on the night of September 12-13, 2008.

Two of the jurors from the trial were present, as well as almost every attorney involved in the case. The idea of the presentation was to discuss the impact of the attorneys' trial strategies & presentations on the jury. What did the jury think about what they were shown? What did the attorneys think about what the jurors had to say? Because the case settled in mid-trial, the jurors had never delivered a verdict. Thus, all parties were eager to hear what they had to say.

Mike was introduced by Judge Jane Bland of Houston's First Court of Appeals. Thanks to Pam Howell for her hard work in helping organize the event. And, of course, thanks to all in attendance.

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, Bellaire, Texas in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Mike Travels to Austin for Board Certification Ceremony

2011-04-23T15:10:00.000-05:00

Mike and his oldest son, Joey, traveled to Austin for the Texas Board of Legal Specialization induction ceremony. Mike earned his board certification in Personal Injury Trial Law in January 2011 after taking the exam in October 2010.

It was a really fun day. Joey & Mike dropped Zachy off at school at 7:30. Mike entered the GPS coordinates for the Texas Law Center building right by the Capitol Austin. Then they were off in the engelhart4judge.com 2012 green hybrid. They coasted, in electric-only mode the 167 miles or so, stopping for gas and Passover-friendly snacks along the way.

The ceremony was excellent. The entire Texas Supreme Court was there and Wallace Jefferson and Phil Johnson spoke. Mike received a beautiful certificate that is in the process of being framed. Afterwards, the TBLS served a delicious BBQ buffet lunch. Mike took a really nice photo of Joey & Justice Eva Guzman.

They ate with Justice Lehrmann and had a really interesting talk. Then Justice Lehrmann was kind enough to show Mike & Joey around the Texas Supreme Court across the street.

Mike & Joey headed back to the car and coasted back down Hwy. 71 to I-10 in electric-only mode and were home in time for supper.

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, Bellaire, Texas in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

151st Hosts Girl Scout Troop from Kolter Elementary

2011-04-03T18:59:00.000-05:00

On Thursday, March 24, 2011, the 151st hosted the Girl Scout Troop from Kolter Elementary. The girls arrived in the afternoon after trial, and the attorneys from the trial were kind enough to stay. The Court's deputy, Victor, lined the girls up in the hallway like a voir dire panel. They were suitably impressed by his stern manner. The girls and chaperone parents were brought in lines into the courtroom and seated in the court's gallery like a real jury! Judge Mike Engelhart walked in from his chambers and commenced the proceedings.

The girls became a jury for the case of Jenny Jones v. The Girl Scouts. Factually, it was alleged that Jenny got sick from eating girl scout cookies. The volunteer attorneys examined the panel as to whether they could be fair in this case and whether they were qualified to serve on the jury. 12 jurors were empaneled after voir dire. Another girl scout played the role of Jenny Jones.

Jenny testified that she had eaten 4 BOXES of girl scout cookies in one sitting. These included Thanks-a-Lots, Thin Mints, Lemonades & Caramel deLites. She also testified there was no warning label on the boxes that the cookies are addictive!

Both sides rested and gave very brief closing arguments. The Girl Scout jury deliberated for a minute or two, and returned a verdict against Jenny Jones and in favor of the Girl Scouts.

After that, the girls took a tour of the judge's chambers and the jury room. They asked many good questions and got to take pictures with the judge sitting in the judge's chair.

It was reported that the judge and the parents had a terrific time, too.

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Latest Comings & Goings & Announcement!

2011-02-18T09:24:00.000-06:00

Here's the big news: I am announcing my candidacy for Judge the 151st Civil District Court of Harris County, Texas for 2012! Big news. I know. I will be scheduling organizational meetings soon.

I note with interest that the State Bar referendum on the new proposed ethics rules failed by a wide margin. I can't ethically comment on the rules, really, but I did note this quote from Linda Eads of SMU from the Texas Lawyer "TexParte" blog article from last night by John Council: “We will be one of the few states that doesn’t prohibit having sex directly with clients.” As opposed to what, exactly?

In other Mike Engelhart news, I am proud to say that I am now Board Certified in Personal Injury Trial Law. I took the test last October and got the results in January. I was quite relieved. I studied very very hard for that test. Of course, nothing I studied was on the test. Nevertheless, very proud of myself.

Finally, I wanted to bring your attention to the new FreeFax filing option in the 151st and several other courts. It allows you to fax no-fee filings through from your desktop through a fax-server. It's free and it's available from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays only. It's a limited alternative to e-filing, and it's free, and I know many of you have complained about the cost of e-filing in some instances. Go to the District Clerk's website (LINK), log in (you must log in or you won't see the link/icon), and there'll be an icon for FreeFax filing. Give it a try. Also, there will be 1/2-hour seminars held by the District Clerk's office at the Harris County Civil Courthouse (17th Floor) on March 3, 2011 at 10 a.m., noon and 3 p.m. I should be at those and will say a few brief words.

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Mike Engelhart's Sneaker Recycling Project a Success!

2010-06-13T11:11:00.000-05:00

Judge Mike Engelhart put together a sneaker recycling drive at the Harris County Courthouse complex in May and June. The effort was in collaboration with the Nike Reuse-a-Shoe program. Mike called it "Harris County Shoe Mania 2010," along the lines of his companion program, Styromania 2009, and the upcoming, Styromania 2010 Styrofoam recycling project. Said the Judge, "the courthouse staff at the civil, criminal and family-law courthouses were really responsive, and we collected more than 100 pairs of sneakers. The sneakers have been dropped off at the Nike Outlet in Katy, Texas, and will shortly be on their way to Nike in Oregon, where they'll be ground up to make playground flooring and track and field surfaces."

Here are some photos of the results of the drive's sneaker haul.

"The sneakers don't have to be Nike's; they can be any brand, but they have to be sneakers. We received some regular shoes, too, which Nike won't accept, but we dropped those off at Goodwill," the Judge added.

Styromania 2010 is coming up during the December 2010 holiday season. Start setting aside your Styrofoam packaging today, and stay tuned!

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

The 151st Hosts 2nd Graders from Dodson Elementary School in Houston

2010-06-13T10:48:00.000-05:00

Mike Engelhart, Judge of the 151st Civil District Court, hosted his second grade class from the HISD Real Men Read Program.

The kids toured the Civil Courthouse and the courtroom, and got to try out the gavel, the courtroom technology, and even meet our court reporter and our bailiff. Here are some photos of the event. Mike was so grateful to the Dodson administration who helped organize the field trip for the kids!

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Mike's Chili Finishes 2nd in the Cy-Fair Annual Chili Cookoff!

2010-05-27T09:16:00.000-05:00

Here is the report of the event from the CY-FAIR Democrats:

Cy-Fair Dems' chili cookoff on Saturday, April 17, was FABULOUS. We had just about ideal sunny cool weather and a gorgeous venue at Cullen Park, near I-10 and Barker Cypress. Sorry for those of you who were unable to find us (we'll do better with directions and signage next year).

Our top chili cooking team was Houston Stonewall Young Democrats, whose 7-man team put out a predictably delicious spread and who just edged out Judge Mike Engelhart's 151st CDCourt cooking team. Mike's cornbread almost won the day, but HSYD's variety of accoutrements (yum!) got a few more votes. (Because we're Democrats, doggone it, we didn't have any royalist judging panel but a straight up-&-down vote of all participants.)

We were lucky enough to have the next County Judge, Gordon Quan, drop by, AND we raised $1,100 for the HCDP Coordinated Campaign ($100 from us, $1,000 from Mike Engelhart). So I guess you could say we owe a lot of our success to Mike!! Thanks again to everyone who took part.

Here's a link to a Facebook album of photos of the event.

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Podcast of Mike's Interview on CNN 650 is up!

2010-05-03T23:05:00.001-05:00

Here's a link to the podcast of Mike's recent hour-long interview on CNN 650. Take a listen!

http://www.midtownmeeting.com/archives

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

E-filing Seminar -- Free!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-05-03T22:38:00.001-05:00

Harris County District Clerk Loren Jackson is sponsoring a free e-filing seminar on Wednesday, May 12, 2010. Two sessions: 10am-Noon OR 2-4pm. 201 Caroline, 7th Floor. Refreshments to be served. Several e-filing vendors presenting their wares.

RSVP to Mike Lykes at michael.lykes@hcdistrictclerk.com TODAY! Don't miss it.

E-filing couldn't be easier and more efficient. It's the most cost effective way to file, and will save taxpayers millions, and even a whole lotta trees, too!

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Going Solar in Houston

2010-04-11T12:51:00.001-05:00

One Block Off the Grid

Great info about going solar and organizing in your community!

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

151st is Recognized by the Harris County District Clerk's Office!

2010-04-02T18:52:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Loren Jackson, the Harris County District Clerk for recognizing the efforts of the 151st and several other courts who have mandated electronic filing for their courts, in whole or in part.

HERE IS A LINK TO THE WEB PAGE.

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Early Voting for Harris County Runoff Elections Starts Monday, April 5, 2010!

2010-03-31T13:36:00.001-05:00

Early voting for Harris County runoff elections starts Monday April 5, 2010. Here are locations and times. LINK TO MAP OF LOCATIONS AND TIMES

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

New Website Created to Translate 151st's Court Procedures

2010-03-11T11:57:00.000-06:00

Judge Mike Engelhart has created a link on his official court procedures page to enable non-English readers who practice in the 151st to translate the court's procedures into dozens of different languages.

The official court procedures page is located at: http://www.justex.net/Courts/Civil/CourtSection.aspx?crt=10&sid=40

There is a new link at the top of that page which takes you to THIS PAGE (click) which has the 151st procedures verbatim. That new page is enabled with a Google Translate tool at the top which has a drop down menu of many different languages.

Rather than stick taxpayers with the bill for translation services for a page to be hosted by the District Courts servers, Judge Engelhart has found a way to create a free separate site that provides excellent translation to just about any language you'd want, at no cost whatsoever.

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

March 24, 2010 Public Forum on Harris County e-filing

2010-03-08T17:06:00.000-06:00

The Harris County District Judges

and
The Harris County District Clerk
Invite you to attend a
PUBLIC FORUM ON E-FILING

Everything you ever wanted to know...ask...or say
about E-Filing in Harris County Courts

This forum is your opportunity to learn about and make your voice heard on
proposed mandatory e-filing policies.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 24, 2010
NOON
17TH FLOOR CONFERENCE SUITE
Across from the Ceremonial Courtroom in the Civil Courthouse
201 Caroline

BRING YOUR OWN LUNCH

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

151st's Court Reporter Makes the Chronicle!

2010-03-08T15:40:00.000-06:00

Here's a funny blog entry by Mary Flood, Chronicle reporter, about my court reporter, Carolyn Coronado's adventures on jury duty last week.

http://blogs.chron.com/legaltrade/2010/03/always_a_panel_member_never_a.html#comments

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

E-filing Alert! Mandatory E-filing with 5th Circuit to Start 3/15/2010!

2010-03-08T11:14:00.001-06:00

Here's the Order from the 5th Circuit -- mandatory e-filing to start on 3/15/2010. Make sure you're registered.

http://www.ca5.uscourts.gov/news/news/mandatoryecf.blurb.pdf.blurb.pdf

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Appellate Court E-Filing Becoming a Reality : Texas Appellate Law Blog

2010-02-21T15:55:00.000-06:00

Appellate Court E-Filing Becoming a Reality : Texas Appellate Law Blog

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Supreme Court campaign finance ruling means changes on way in Texas | News for Dallas, Texas | Dallas Morning News | Texas Regional News

2010-01-24T15:50:00.001-06:00

Supreme Court campaign finance ruling means changes on way in Texas | News for Dallas, Texas | Dallas Morning News | Texas Regional News

Posted using ShareThis

Record Levels of E-filing in Harris County District Courts!

2010-01-20T16:12:00.000-06:00

Here is a lette from Ken Ollive, Chief Deputy for Court Administration in the Harris County District Clerk's Office regarding e-filing:

Good afternoon Judges,

Yesterday, we reached a milestone in the District Clerk’s Office. At present we have two Courts with e-filing Orders, two Courts with e-filing Orders after review, and 1 Court with e-filing Orders regarding Ike Cases.

In January of 2009 we averaged 260 e-filings a day. Yesterday, January 19, 2009, we processed 997 e-filings. As you know, our office spent $710,000 last year imaging paper-filed documents in civil cases alone. We expect to spend $796,000 in 2010. Every new e-filing assists in driving those costs down and we truly appreciate each of your consideration. Our office actually set another milestone a while back, in that we set the record for the fastest processing time of an electronic filing – 26 SECONDS! Our closest competitor took over 3 minutes. That is a testament to the hard working clerks we have in our intake areas who process e-filings with great professionalism. In fact, our office routinely processes e-filings THREE times faster than a paper-filed document. Thank you for your partnership and for your consideration to our taxpayers

Ken Olive
Chief Deputy - Court Admin.
for Loren Jackson, District Clerk
Harris County Texas

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Highest Daily Total for E-Filing Recorded on Friday 1-15-2010!

2010-01-19T15:59:00.000-06:00

On Friday, January 15, 2010, TexasOnline reported its highest e-filing rate so far - -746 filings in one day (which is a lot) for Harris County District Courts!

We're saving trees and saving taxpayer money! Here's a note I got from Ruth at e-filing in the clerk's office.

We wanted to thank you for your contribution. Friday we made our highest filing rate so far-746 which is a lot of eFiling…..thank you so much for your help 

Thank you and have a Wonderful Day

Ruth Ann McDugle

Manager, Civil Bureau

Civil/Family/Juvenile Courts and support areas

Loren Jackson, Harris County District Clerk

713-755-5939 Fax 713-755-8923

View our Website at:www.hcdistrictclerk.com

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Twittering Juries?

2010-01-07T20:00:00.001-06:00

Great article on social networking sites and juries.

College-Bulletin-Fall-09.pdf (application/pdf Object)

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

LegalFront Article about Free Legal Tech training to Legal Aid Providers

2010-01-03T16:28:00.000-06:00

Here's a link to the the Fall 2009 issue of LegalFront, the magazine of the Pro Bono/Legal Services arm of the State Bar of Texas. On page 6 of this .pdf is a good article about Free Technology Training being provided to Texas legal aid providers. It is amazing what technology can do for the provision of low cost or pro bono legal services.

Legal Front, Vol 10, No. 4

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Texas Lawyer Article about 2009 E-filing

2009-12-21T10:40:00.001-06:00

Harris County e-filing article from Texas Lawyer.

Template.cfm application/pdf Object

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

eFiler Focus Newsletter

2009-12-21T10:37:00.001-06:00

Great info about e-filing.

eFiler Focus Newsletter

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Judges confounded by jury's access to cyberspace -- baltimoresun.com

2009-12-13T19:46:00.001-06:00

Judges confounded by jury's access to cyberspace -- baltimoresun.com

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Texas Lawyer Blog: Judge Al Bennett of 61st District Court elected administrative judge over Harris County civil district courts

2009-12-10T20:52:00.000-06:00

Texas Lawyer Blog: Judge Al Bennett of 61st District Court elected administrative judge over Harris County civil district courts

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Greater Heights Democratic Club » styrofoam recycling after New Yrs!!

2009-12-10T20:47:00.002-06:00

The GHDC picked up on our Styrofoam recycling drive and is getting the word out!

Greater Heights Democratic Club » styrofoam recycling after New Yrs!!

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Carolyn Clause Garcia Portrait Unveiling!!!!

2009-10-12T21:49:00.002-05:00

Please come to the portrait unveiling for our good friend Carolyn Clause Garcia, former Judge of the 151st Civil District Court. It will be held at 11:30 a.m. in the 151st District Court, 201 Caroline, 11th Floor, Houston, Texas 77002. A brief ceremony and unveiling of the portrait will be followed by a reception on the 17th Floor. We would love to have you in attendance.

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

An Interesting Article About Judges and Lawyers Blogging and Posting on Social Network Sites Like Facebook and Twitter

2009-09-13T21:14:00.001-05:00

A Legal Battle for Lawyers - Online Attitude vs. Rules of the Bar - NYTimes.com

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I've Been Meaning to Add This. Article about Bike Messengers and my E-filing Order.

2009-09-13T20:38:00.002-05:00

Cycle messengers are switching to driving pedicabs and food delivery | Austin Pedicab Alliance

Read the comments to the post. I really am sorry that they're losing their jobs, but I think the long term upside outweighs this obvious downside.

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151st Becomes First Mandatory E-File Court in Harris County

2009-04-20T19:58:00.002-05:00

Today the 151^st Civil District Court of Harris County, Texas posted its “Standing Order” on its website’s Court Procedures page requiring all documents in new lawsuits to be electronically filed. A link to the court’s standing order is posted on the procedures page at this address: http://www.justex.net/Courts/Civil/CourtSection.aspx?crt=10&sid=40

Further, the Court Procedures page has links to the Harris County Local Rules of the District Courts Concerning the Electronic Filing of Documents, as well as a link to TEXASONLINE, the required e-filing portal for Texas Courts. At TEXASONLINE, litigants may find information about Electronic Filing Service Providers (EFSPs) – companies that provide electronic document filing services that are in partnership with Texas Courts.

It is the Court’s hope that by instituting this new requirement for all new lawsuits in the 151^st, more courts will take the plunge and become mandatory e-filing courts, and that Harris County will thereby catch up with Travis County, certain courts in Montgomery and Jefferson Counties, and all federal courts, which require electronic filing of documents. Moreover, the Court hopes that electronic filing will reduce paper waste and increase energy efficiency by Harris County attorneys. The Standing Order allows exceptions for pro-se litigants, and allows for waivers to be granted by the Court in the case of substantial hardship.

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

New Harris County Democratic Judges Well Received

2009-04-11T11:10:00.007-05:00

The Texas Lawyer newspaper had a lengthy article LINK in its April 6, 2009 issue about the early marks for the newly elected Democratic civil and criminal Judges in Harris County.

To quote the piece:

. . . in interviews with 17 Houston litigators — including plaintiffs lawyers, civil-defense lawyers, criminal-defense lawyers and prosecutors who have appeared before the new Harris County judges during their first 100 days on the bench — the reviews are overwhelmingly positive.

Your favorite blogger was not mentioned in the story. One of the themes prevalent in the article, at least with respect to the civil judges, is that cases are finally moving to trial:

They're moving cases to trial. That's pretty unusual in Harris County," says Caddell, a partner in Houston's Caddell & Chapman. Caddell had all but given up on trying suits in his own hometown because of the time it took to get a case before a jury. He even went as far as taking the California bar exam two years ago so he could practice in that state. But it's a new day in the Harris County Civil Courthouse, Caddell says.

It's a great read. Thanks to everyone who helped get us elected. Send the article to your friends!

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Investiture Ceremony for Mike Engelhart

2009-01-18T12:03:00.003-06:00

The investiture ceremony (formal swearing in) for Mike Engelhart will be held on Friday, January 30, 2009 at Noon in the Ceremonial Courtroom of the Harris County Civil Courthouse, 201 Caroline, 17th Floor, Houston, Texas 77002. The public is welcome to attend.

Map to Harris County Civil Courthouse

The brief ceremony will be followed by a light snack reception in the conference room across the hall from the Courtroom.

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

We Did It!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-11-05T01:44:00.004-06:00

We Won! The final numbers are in, and we won 50.8% to 49.2%. We won by about 17,000 votes out of about 1.1 million cast. Thank you all for your help. This was clearly a team effort and we're very proud and very pleased and grateful. We'll post more soon.

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Radio Commercial is on the Air!

2008-11-01T21:43:00.005-05:00

Here is our new radio commercial, airing on KHMX, 96.5 FM in Houston.

RADIO COMMERCIAL

It's started airing Thursday, and will run through Tuesday. I am fairly happy with it. It's not as polished as some of the Republicans' slick, narrated spots, but I think it's more authentic for that reason.

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Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Save the Date!

2008-10-23T22:45:00.003-05:00

Final pre-election fundraiser and auction to support Mike Engelhart for Judge at Pearl Bar on Washington Street on Tuesday, October 28, 2008 at 6:30 p.m. Event is hosted by Mike Doyle and Jeff Raizner, Thomas Barnes, and City Councilmember Jolanda Jones.

There will be incredible items in the auction to bid on. Come support Mike and win some really cool items!

More info to come.

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Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Early Voting is Underway

2008-10-23T22:32:00.003-05:00

Here are a few quick hits about Mike's experience getting ready for and during early voting:

1. On Sunday night, after the big GOTV rally at Discovery Green, Mike and a volunteer and fellow blogger picked up about infinity signs and loaded them into Mike's wife's truck and drove to far west Harris County. The two placed Democratic yard signs at the Bear Creek voting location and at a second location at Fry Road even further west than the first. It was a late night, and the two worked under the headlights putting together signs and placing them in what was unusually hard ground. It took a while, but it was fun.

2. In the first four days of early voting, turnout has been up more than 100% overall. It's amazing, and bodes well, but you never know what tomorrow will bring.

3. A woman had a funny zinger for Mike while he was greeting voters at the polls. A young African American woman in a bright yellow top was leaving her car and headed for the entrance to the West Gray early voting location. She was exceedingly pregnant -- about 9.5 months pregnant, at least. Mike asked if she got to vote twice. (Har!). She didn't miss a beat, and said, "What, are you with ACORN?" Touche!

4. This guy got out of his car, and had on a University of Wisconsin t-shirt. He was one of those "walking with a sense of purpose" voters. Head down, and not wanting to be bothered. Mike offered a "Go Badgers!" cheer (in a normal speaking tone). The man said something like, "that's the smartest thing any of you has ever said at one of these places!" Growling. On the way out, as he drove in front of the row of us who were holding signs and asking for votes, he quite obviously extended a certain finger and pretended to be scratching his right cheek with it. He flipped them the bird! We here at engelhart4judge.com just don't get it. What's so terrible about being asked for your vote at a polling place? Someone please explain it to us.

5. Mike is feeling optimistic. He's getting a ton of winks, thumbs up, and you-got-my-votes while working the polls. It's a lot of fun. The best part of the campaign. The weather has been beautiful, too.

6. At night, Mike has been volunteering to make calls at HCDP headquarters. They are terrifically organized down there, and Mike's made hundreds of calls this week, and will keep doing so through the election.

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Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Mike Quoted in Houston Chronicle

2008-10-23T22:23:00.003-05:00

Mike was interviewed by phone by Houston Chronicle reporter Mary Flood last week. On Monday morning, his quote was included in her article about the upcoming election.

Mike was asked why he identified himself as a Democrat on his billboard that is located between Shepherd and Greenbriar on US-59 inside the Loop. Here's Mike's portion of the article

Michael Engelhart, a Democratic challenger for a civil bench, included his affiliation on his billboard.

"I'm a Democrat, and I think it will be a good year for Democrats," he said. "I'm proud to be a Democrat."

Mike loves Mary, but he's told her it's "Mike" like a zillion times. Beggars can't be choosers, though. The flip side of the issue is that Republicans, including Mike's opponent, are afraid to put "Republican" on their signs. Yet, they say "Republican" in their TV ads. Which is it? We here at engelhart4judge.com are so confused.

This article was published on the first morning of early voting. Timing, as they say, is everything.

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Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Precinct 182 Blockwalking a Success!

2008-10-23T22:18:00.003-05:00

Mike took on an additional role in his spare time to serve as Volunteer Precinct Coordinator for Precinct 182. The Precinct is located inside the loop in Bellaire, bordered by I-610 on the west, Bellaire Blvd. on the north, the rail line on the east, and Beechnut to the south.

Mike and several volunteers gathered in Mike's garage in the southern end of the Precinct and prepared packets to give to our voters. We covered most of the Precinct on Saturday morning, and will work this weekend to complete the walk.

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Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Baptist Ministers Endorse Mike Engelhart for Judge!

2008-10-17T02:17:00.004-05:00

Today Mike was informed that he has received the very valuable and meaningful endorsement of the Baptist Ministers PAC. As a result, Mike will be included on their organization's slate card that will be given out to thousands of Harris County voters. Mike greatly appreciates this wonderful honor and looks forward to serving these community leaders and their flocks as the next Judge of the 151st Civil District Court.

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Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Another Endorsement! Jewish Herald Voice Endorses Mike Engelhart!

2008-10-16T12:34:00.005-05:00

The Jewish Herald Voice newspaper, a very influential subscription-only paper in the Houston area, endorsed Mike Engelhart for Judge of the 151st Civil District Court yesterday! Mike is exceedingly proud to have received this influential endorsement. It, too, was a hotly contested endorsement race between Mike and his opponent. And, it follows closely on the heels of Mike's endorsement by the Mexican American Bar Association-Houston (MABAH).

Mike's parents were absolutely kvelling about this endorsement, too, it is reported.

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Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Engelhart Beats Out Opponent for Hotly Contested Endorsement!

2008-10-15T09:34:00.005-05:00

The Mike Engelhart for Judge Campaign is very (!) excited to announce that Mike has won the endorsement of the Mexican American Bar Association of Houston (MABAH). Mike and his opponent actively sought this very important endorsement by this influential group of attorneys. They both interviewed with the screening committee, and they both addressed the entire group at a meeting on Monday night, October 13, 2008.

Here is a LINK to the list of endorsements for the 2008 General Election.

Mike believes his vision of actively working to create a level playing field for Hispanic litigants in his courtroom, should he be elected, resonated with the members of MABAH. Moreover, he believes that they saw that level playing field lacking in the 12 years Mike's opponent has held this office.

This is a real feather in the campaign's cap, and Mike looks forward to welcoming MABAH members to his courtroom next year.

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Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Engelhart Receives Prestigious Endorsement

2008-10-10T10:09:00.004-05:00

Mike Engelhart for Judge is very proud to announce that his candidacy for the 151st Civil District Court of Harris County, Texas was endorsed on October 7, 2008 by the Pakistani American Council of Texas (PACT)!

Some of you may have read the earlier entry HERE about Mike's visit with PACT and the Pakistani American Public Affairs Committee. Well, the announcement came through, and we are very proud to announce that we received this endorsement over our incumbent opponent.

This endorsement is very important to Mike as he continues to talk about the necessity of Judges being open and welcoming to litigants of all backgrounds. Mike intends to ensure fairness, respect and dignity for all members of the Harris County community and all others who appear in the 151st. Mike is very very grateful for this coveted endorsement.

UPDATE:

So, for those keeping score at home, some of Mike's most prestigious endorsements include:

Houston Police Patrolmen's Union
HGLBTPC
AFL-CIO
Ambassador Arthur Schechter
Barbara Ann Radnofsky (former US Senate Candidate from Texas)
PACT
Houston City Councilmember Melissa Noriega

Caroline Baker Hurley excellent judges courthouse excellence

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Mike Visits with Mexican American Bar Association of Houston

2008-10-01T20:30:00.003-05:00

On Monday night, Mike met with representatives of the Mexican American Bar Association of Houston to screen for their important endorsement. This group and this endorsement would be of great significance to Mike because Mike came to Houston in the first place to go to law school because he speaks fluent Spanish and wanted very badly to work with the large Hispanic community of Houston in his law career.

Moreover, Mike has largely worked with Hispanic clients in his small law firm career, and his courtroom would gladly welcome Hispanic attorneys and litigants, and have great understanding of their needs and particular issues.

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Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Engelhart Visits with Houston Pakistani Leaders

2008-10-01T20:16:00.003-05:00

On Sunday, September 28, 2008, the engelhart4judge.com 2008 green hybrid coasted silently in electric-only mode over to Hillcroft in southwest Houston to meet with the Pakistani American Public Affairs Committee. Mike got a chance to speak to the members of the organization. There were more than 40 Democratic candidates in attendance, and only a handful of Republicans. Mike's opponent did not show up to meet with this important constituency, without explanation.

Mike related the story of his grandmother to the people in attendance. She came to this country as a little girl. She had to journey thousands of miles, hidden under blankets in carts and wagons by her older brothers, to escape the Soviet Pogroms. A 1992 book was written about her experiences. When she arrived, she came through Ellis Island, and later married a Union organizer. So not only does Mike descend from a woman who risked her life to come to the United States, he also descends from a man who fought for basic worker's rights in this country from the 1930s on. This seemed to resonate with the room full of immigrants who have come to the US to make a better life for themselves and their families. This would be a terrific endorsement for Mike and he would be deeply honored to receive it.

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Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Engelhart Visits with Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

2008-10-01T20:03:00.003-05:00

Mike Engelhart met with representatives of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Mike is seeking their endorsement in his campaign for the 151st Civil District Court, and would be grateful to have it.

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Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Engelhart Campaign Gets Involved in Hurricane Relief Efforts

2008-09-18T15:57:00.006-05:00

Mike Engelhart's campaign spent Wednesday delivering food to needy area residents. First, we drove down to Kemah and brought groceries to some flooded residents there. The devastation was overwhelming. More than a dozen houses in a row were destroyed, and all of their belongings were drying on their front lawns. We brought water, toiletries, charcoal and burgers, paper plates, and a ton of non-perishable items.

Then Mike headed over to St. Paul UMC near the medical center to deliver meals for the Meals on Wheels program. The people to whom we delivered were just amazed that the program was still running during this crisis. It's a great program, and more people should get involved during normal non-crisis periods. It is extremely rewarding and valuable.

Today, Mike and his staff spent the morning and early afternoon calling residents of Precinct 182 to check on their welfare, and to offer them telephone numbers and other contact info for relief agencies, Centerpoint Energy, as well as for opportunities to volunteer in the relief efforts.

By the way -- our billboard is back up as of Thursday afternoon! It was deliberately taken down before the storm to avoid damage. And like a Phoenix rising from the ashes (ok - too dramatic), uh, like a "rubber ball of change" (to coin a phrase) it has bounced back and is once again proudly surveying the traffic jams on the Southwest Freeway inside the loop between Shepherd and Greenbriar!

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Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Thank You -- We Made It! -- Message from Mike Engelhart

2008-09-16T10:34:00.005-05:00

Message from Mike Engelhart --

We survived Ike! It was a very scary night. I stared at the big oak tree in our front yard, waiting for it to come through the bedroom window. I was ready to catch it with my bare hands. It stood its ground.

Unfortunately, many other trees in the neighborhood didn't, and it looks like a war zone here. We're cleaning up and the power is now back on -- as of Monday afternoon. Thank goodness for the cool weather the last couple of days!

We lost a wooden fence and 1/2 a gutter on one side of the house. Not much to complain about, really.

Most of Houston and the surrounding area is still without power, though. There are lines for gasoline and ice. My law firm staff is ok -- one has power and the other has a generator. I've invited them over to grill tonight.

My parents were over last night and my sister and brother-in-law and their kids spent the night. My sister works at a major trauma center hospital here (Memorial Hermann) and has been at work since Sunday with few breaks.

Galveston, Surfside and Bolivar (coastline areas) are badly damaged. There was flooding and as most of you have seen on the news, many buildings were just erased.

How to Help -- I will be at a POD distribution center on Pinemont this afternoon trying to pitch in. Try to find one near you and offer to help out if you're local and have some time. Chris Bell sent the following information out, as well:

The American Red Cross needs your help. Here is a link where you can give a donation to disaster relief, or find the Red Cross location closest to you: www.redcross.org

As many as 37,000 people were reported to be in shelters across Texas on Monday. You can find out how to donate money and volunteer your time no matter where you live at this site:
http://www.usafreedomcorps.gov/about_usafc/special/hurricane_2008.asp
Gas prices are going up, in some cases obscenely. With many people forced onto highways for long drives, our only defense is to educate ourselves. Here's a list of the lowest gas prices in the Houston area, with the latest information gathered and submitted by your neighbors: http://www.houstongasprices.com/
You also can type in your Zip code at the above link and find the lowest gas prices in other areas.

Good luck to everyone here in H-town, and thanks to all of you from out of town who checked in on us. We (my family) are fine and really very fortunate. Let us know immediately if we can be of help to you. 713-298-9460. mengelhart0@gmail.com.

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Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Engelhart Attends Houston Area Urban League Young Professionals State of the City Meeting

2008-09-12T14:40:00.004-05:00

Last Tuesday September 9 , the campaign headed over to the TSU campus to the new Barbara Jordan/Mickey Leland Public Policy building for the state of the city lecture. Mike met dozens of attendees and was introduced to the audience before the lecture. It was a fascinating talk about infrastructure and mobility. Mike really appreciated the opportunity to meet the students and speakers at this important community event.

From there, Mike headed over to Texadelphia on Westheimer to meet with the Galleria Area Democrats. They had a great presentation by an Obama delegate and a Clinton delegate's experiences at the Democratic National Convention. Mike has visited with this group before, but is always made to feel extremely welcomed.

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Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Engelhart Attends Important Pasadena GOTV Events!

2008-09-12T14:25:00.004-05:00

On Saturday, September 6, 2008, Mike Engelhart traveled to Pasadena to attend two very crucial GOTV events in Pasadena. The first event was at Mamacita's restaurant on Spencer Highway. Members of the local SEIU and Unite Now union groups were out in force. Mike got to address the huge group of attendees. The excitement and hunger for change in the room were so thick you could spread them on your bagel!

Next, the engelhart4judge.com 2008 green hybrid, Mike headed over to the Southeast Harris County satellite office opening. It was SRO. Commissioner Sylvia Garcia addressed the crowd and was given a floral arrangement for her birthday. Congratulations to the HCDP for its ongoing organizational efforts and success.

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Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Engelhart Will Be on Praise Radio, 92.1 FM on Saturday Morning!

2008-09-05T21:31:00.005-05:00

Be sure to listen to 92.1 FM tomorrow morning between 9 and 10 a.m. Mike is the guest of former Houston councilmember Ada Edwards on her "Dialogue" program. Mike's really looking forward to it.

Mike will try to record the program and make it available in mp3 format for his loyal fans.

An update will follow the broadcast.

UPDATE

We had a great time on the broadcast. Many reported having heard it. We were on for about 20 minutes. Ada asked us about why we felt we were ready to be a judge. She asked an interesting question about how someone would know they had received justice whether or not they won their case. I think that fit right in with our narrative of having an open mind and not being afraid to allow the common law to grow and adapt to changing community needs.

We really appreciate the opportunity to have spoken to Ada's audience.

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Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Update

2008-09-05T21:14:00.002-05:00

Mike's Campaign has been turning up the intensity in his effort to restore balance and fundamental fairness to our courts. In the last week or so, in addition to the other entries, Mike has:

Visited the law firms Jackson & Walker and Chamberlain, Hrdlicka. Friends of Mikes were kind enough to show Mike around and introduce him to dozens of attorneys. The vast majority of the attorneys Mike got to meet were very welcoming, and seemed to agree that it was time for a change down at the Harris County Courthouse. Mike reminded them about getting the HBA's Preference Poll and asked them to vote for Mike.

On Wednesday, September 3, 2008, Mike had the great pleasure of stopping by the Houston Hillel on Bissonnet in the Rice U area. The Young Professionals group was hosting a fun wine and cheese party, and Mike got to speak with several yound doctors and other professionals about the campaign, the courts and Mike's plan to streamline and improve the way the 151st is run.

Finally, on Thursday night, September 4th, Mike stopped by a fundraiser for a local judicial candidate running for a probate court. In the 20 months + that Mike has been campaigning, he has not had the pleasure of visiting with a group of probate attorneys. Mike got some free advice on a case he's working on, and got to speak with a terrific group of lawyers.

After that, Mike and the engelhart4judge.com 2008 green hybrid cruised up to Mike's second-home, the Acres Home area of Houston. He attended a meet-the-candidates forum at the Guiding Light church. Pastor Baker and Reverend Hill officiated. Mike got to speak with a packed house of local residents. He railed against the culture of entitlement at the Harris County Courthouse, and promised to be welcoming and respectful of all individuals who come before him starting next January. There is nothing better (campaign-wise) than grabbing a microphone and speaking in front of a full house at the church!

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Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

University of Michigan Alums Get a Visit from Mike Engelhart for Judge

2008-09-05T21:06:00.004-05:00

As you all know (or maybe not), Mike Engelhart got his BA from the University of Michigan. The Michigan Alumni Association in Houston is growing every year, and is already quite large.

On Saturday, August 30, 2008, after the Labor Day cookoff, the engelhart4judge.com 2008 green hybrid cruised over to a local establishment for the UM v. Utah opener. Michigan didn't quite come through for Mike. However, Mike got to meet about 50 Houston alums of his alma mater. He handed out cards, and gave his elevator speech to the group during a commercial. Everyone seemed pleased that their fellow alum was running for judge here in town, and wished Mike the best. Several offered to host house parties, and almost everyone promised to vote for Mike.

There are several games between now and the election, and Mike intends to return to the Mezzanine each week to meet with his fellow alums.

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Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Mike Engelhart Savors Labor Day BBQ with the AFL-CIO

2008-09-05T20:56:00.003-05:00

Like last year, the engelhart4judge.com 2008 green hybrid coasted silently in electric-only mode over to the Pasadena Fairgrounds for the Labor Day BBQ cookoff held by the AFL-CIO. Dozens of cookers and locals set up their grills. They cooked brisket, chicken, ribs, etc. Last year, Mike was a "celebrity" judge for the brisket competition. This year, Mike judged the chicken and then the ribs.

As wonderful as the meats were prepared and as good as they tasted, it's not quite as fun as it sounds. As a judge, you have to take a small bite, throw away your fork and knife, cleanse your palate, and then sample the next entrant's meat. It's fairly clinical. Nevertheless, it's the proverbial "free lunch". So, it could be worse.

Mike walked around the cookers and locals camped out and enjoying the sunny day around the grounds, and had a blast. Labor runs in Mike's family, so it was like old home week. Plus, Mike's already been endorsed by the AFL-CIO.

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Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Mike Engelhart Attends HTLA Mixer and Obama Nomination Party

2008-09-05T20:46:00.003-05:00

Last Thursday, Mike Engelhart had the pleasure of heading over to the Pearl Bar on Washington and meeting with members of the Houston Trial Lawyers Association (HTLA). Mike got to visit with some old friends and make some new ones. The optimism in the air about the Democrats' chances in 2008 was so thick, you could spread it on your toast.

Later, Mike and his beautiful wife Eva, and his two boys, Joey & Zachary, piled into the engelhart4judge.com 2008 green hybrid and puttered over to the Renaissance Hotel for the official HCDP Obama nomination party. Everyone who's anyone in the Democratic Party was there. There were a whole lot of "community organizers" there. The speech was cheered throughout, as it should have been.

Mike's boys were treated like royalty as people recognized them from Mike's campaign billboard. The billboard is located on US-59 inside the loop between Shepard & Greenbriar. Check it out.

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Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Engelhart Visits With Katy Bar Association

2008-09-05T20:37:00.003-05:00

On Tuesday, August 26, 2008, the engelhart4judge.com 2008 green hybrid cruised silently in electric-only mode out to Katy, Texas. There Mike met with the Katy Bar Association. Each of the candidates in attendance (and only Democratic candidates were in attendance for some reason) got to address the group. We discussed the issues important to us, as well as those particular to the Katy attorneys. There was an excellent give and take, and Mike was very happy to have been able to speak with the group.

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Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Engelhart Attends Bay Area County Party Satellite Office Opening

2008-08-24T19:00:00.006-05:00

The Harris County Democratic Party and the Bay Area New Democrats celebrated the opening of the newest 2008 satellite campaign office on El Dorado Boulevard in Webster, Texas on Saturday, August 23rd. Mike Engelhart was fortunate enough to have attended the opening.

Mekisha Murray, herself a candidate, introduced Mike to the group. Several other County, state and federal candidates were there. It was a great event, and another example of the unprecedented organization and enthusiasm of Harris County Democrats for 2008.

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Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Mike Engelhart Visits With Magnolia Park Civic Association

2008-08-24T18:36:00.007-05:00

On Saturday, August 23rd, 2008, Mike Engelhart had the pleasure of visiting with the Magnolia Park Civic Club at the American Legion Hall east of downtown. The meeting was about upcoming improvements and historical preservation in the area.

The group was very welcoming. Mike just spoke for a few minutes, and discussed the Harris County Democratic Party's plans for the upcoming election. He talked about the importance of restoring balance and fundamental fairness to the court, and changing the atmosphere from one of entrenched incumbency to a new sense of public service for all members of our community. Several members took Mike aside after the meeting to talk about getting more involved in the campaign.

It was a nice opportunity for Mike's campaign, and he looks forward to visiting with the Magnolia Park Civic Club again soon.

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Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Engelhart Wears Holes in his Shoes on Saturday

2008-08-10T20:23:00.004-05:00

On Saturday, August 9, 2008, Mike Engelhart campaigned from dawn past dusk. He started the day meeting up with HoustonVotes.org volunteers to hang voter registration cards and instructions on the doors of unregistered voters in the Alief area. He brought donuts for everyone, and spent about 2 hours walking the streets of Alief, between the Westpark Tollway and Highstar hanging the cards on targeted homes.

Needless to say, shortly into the endeavor, he was sweaty and cranky. Nevertheless, it was very worthwhile, as the group undoubtedly handed out more than 1000 voter registration cards.

Next, Mike headed over to midtown Houston for the grand opening of the HCDP campaign office. As with the previous two satellite office openings, it was packed. Democratic groups of every stripe were there, ready to work together to turn Houston blue.

Later, Mike headed over to the India Fest at the George R. Brown Convention Center and shook hundreds of hands and handed out at least as many cards. The attendees were enthusiastic and the reception was warm. Congratulations to the local Indian community on their independence celebration.

From there, Mike headed over to the Guava Lamp on Waugh for a Houston Young Democrats candidate reception where he met many dedicated activists and talked at length about the campaign and upcoming election.

Finally, at about 9:30 p.m., Mike headed back to the GRB for the Pakistani Independence Day Festival. He got to meet the attendees, of which there were hundreds. Then, he was introduced to the group at about 10:00 p.m., and got to say a few words about voter registration and his campaign. It was a terrific event, and there were many Democratic candidates present. The enthusiastic crowd welcomed them warmly.

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Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Engelhart Wins Coveted GLBT Endorsement

2008-08-07T13:51:00.006-05:00

Mike Engelhart's campaign for judge of the 151st Civil District Court in Harris County got a great boost last night as he received the endorsement of the Houston Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual Transgendered Political Caucus (HGLBTPC) for the November 4th general election. Mike's opponent--reportedly the most GLBT friendly of the incumbent Republicans-- was not willing to come seek the endorsement, though two other Republican incumbents did (neither received the nod).

Mike spoke to the group prior to the endorsement, and told them that he had come to one of their meetings about 18 months ago because he had heard of their power in electoral circles in Houston. He joined the club as a member, and since then has been very active, marching in the Pride Parade, donating, stuffing envelopes, screening candidates, and coming to meetings. Mike said that he had made a lot of new friends, and that it was been very rewarding to have become part of the group, and that he would like to have the group's endorsement.

Mike is very proud to have received this very important endorsement that has made the difference in many political races in the area in the last several years. He looks forward to campaigning with the GLBT towards victory in November.

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Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Engelhart Attends Eastside and Westside Harris County Coordinated Campaign Openings.

2008-08-05T20:49:00.010-05:00

On Saturday, July 26, 2008, Mike Engelhart attended the grand opening of the eastside office of the Harris County Coordinated Campaign.

It's a terrific building in a great location. Mike's yardsigns adorn the grassy area by the road in front of the building.

The coordinated campaign is opening one county satellite office each Saturday through mid-September.

On Saturday, August 2, 2008, the engelhart4judge.com 2008 green hybrid travelled to the 13000 block of Westheimer, near Eldridge Pkwy, for the opening of the westside office. The office was packed to the gills, and many big name speakers were in attendance.

Gerry Birnberg heroically spoke less than one week after his grandson's tragic passing in a car accident. He asked us all to redouble our efforts to carry on and make his dream of a better world for his grandson a reality. Chris Bell, Al Green, Scott Hochberg, and several others made passionate speeches. Mike got to meet a ton of Democrats he hadn't met before, and handed out a many cards and collected many more for his database.

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Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Video! - Mike Engelhart for Judge of the 151st in Harris County, Texas

2008-07-28T14:45:00.005-05:00

Here's our first campaign video. I love it! My family and the videographer did a great job. I can't wait to take over the 151st and restore balance to our Harris County courts.

Here's a LINK to the video on youtube.

Ask me about excellent judges, and courthouse excellence

Caroline Baker Hurley

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

It Just Gets Better in Harris County for Democrats

2008-07-23T12:08:00.005-05:00

In a stunning article in today's Houston Chronicle, Alan Bernstein detailed the distinct financial advantage that Harris County Democrats will have heading into the November election.

Little-known Texas organizations that support Democratic candidates are pouring money and personnel into Harris County at seldom-seen levels for the Nov. 4 election, with the help of a few wealthy statewide donors and national labor unions.

The outpouring of support is part of a well organized effort to take back Harris County:

the work is part of an unprecedented push to aim resources at Houston-area elections through two groups run by a Washington-based director: The Texas Democratic Trust and the Lone Star Fund.

One of the largest donors, John Eddie Williams said the reason for the effort is that:

"There is no down-the-middle approach anymore" in the local justice system, he said. "The Republicans have the (Texas) Supreme Court, the appeals courts and district courts, and working families in Texas are losing their rights, and corporate America now owns our court system."

Remember, Democrats have Nick Lampson spending money to get out the Democratic vote in the area, and his television ads, if nothing else, will bleed into Harris County. Democrats have Barack Obama, Rick Noriega, Adrian Garcia, David Mincberg, Chris Bell, Michael Skelly, Christy Thibault, and others running in the western part of Harris County, and thus are likely to see unprecedented turnout among Democrats in that region who are rarely if ever addressed in county-wide races.

The Mike Engelhart for Judge Campaign is very excited to be part of this important effort to restore a level playing field to Harris County and our courts.

Ask me about excellent judges

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Engelhart Attends Netroots Nation Candidate Celebration

2008-07-20T19:39:00.005-05:00

On Friday afternoon, July 18th, the engelhart4judge.com 2008 green hybrid coasted silently in electric-only mode all the way to downtown Austin for the Netroots Nation Candidate Celebration.

Christine Pelosi and others

Dozens of congressional candidates, University Board of Trustees Candidates, State Representative, and other types of candidates from 15 different states were in attendance at this national bloggers convention.

Mike was the only judicial candidate and got to address the hundreds in attendance at this Friday night party.

A beautiful program was created, and Mike was honored to autograph many for the bloggers.

Mike is, obviously, a blogger too, and got to meet some of the people he had only had the chance to interact with online.

Many were already aware of your favorite judicial candidate's campaign, and many more got the word Friday night.

Mike's blog has already gotten many more unique hits since Friday night, and he has been talked about in many new quarters of the internet as well. It was a great event, as was Netroots Nation overall.

Ask me about excellent judges. Courthouse excellence. Caroline Baker Hurley

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Engelhart Attends Senate District 6 Celebration and More on Thursday, July 17th

2008-07-20T19:32:00.004-05:00

The engelhart4judge.com 2008 green hybrid cruised silently in electric-only mode to the Heights home of Janie and Fulmencio Reyes last Thursday for a Celebration of the hard work and dedication of the leaders of Senate District 6.

Dozens were there, and many Democratic candidates as well. A Harris County official was there to deputize at least 20 people as deputy voter registrars as well.

Mike learned about the opening, next Saturday, of an East end voter outreach office as well.

From there, Mike hopped in the Engelhart-mobile and headed over to El Tiempo Cantina on Montrose for the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals mixers. Mike mixed it up with the packed house of young professionals, and discussed the importance of a district court judge in their profession. Mike handed out many cards, and collected many as well to add to his campaign for Judge of the 151st Civil District Court.

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Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Mike Engelhart Campaign Participates in Volunteer Playground Build

2008-07-20T19:25:00.005-05:00

Mike Engelhart's campaign participated in a volunteer playground build on Wednesday, July 9, 2008. The build took place at the CandlelightOaks neighborhood in northwest Houston, on West Tidwell between Antoine and TC Jester.

More than 250 volunteers turned out to build this fantastic new park and playground for the neighborhood kids. The finished product looks amazing. It was all built within a matter of about10 hours.

Volunteers put up playground equipment, dug holes for cement supports, laid down a mountain of mulch underneath the equipment, and built fences, walkways, and shaded sitting areas for the community.

Mike and his campaign were very proud to have been a part of it.

Ask me about excellent judges. Courthouse excellence. Caroline Baker Hurley

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Engelhart's 4th of July a Full Day of Celebration

2008-07-20T19:14:00.004-05:00

The engelhart4judge.com 2008 green hybrid cruised silently in electric-only mode up to Kingwood, Texas on the early morning of July4th for the Kingwood 4th of July Parade. Mike's brother-in-law came along with Mike to drive the car in the parade. Mike ran alongside.

Mike walked the length of the parade, handing out little American flags with his campaign cards attached. He also handed out Democratic candies with little donkeys on them to the thousands in attendance.

Like last year, the reception was amazing. People were genuinely pleased to see a Democratic presence back in Kingwood, and were very encouraging.

Everyone like the car, too.

It looks like things are changing -- even in Kingwood.

After that, Mike attended the open house of the Democratic Northside Voter Outreach Office open house with his two boys, Joey & Zachary. There he met with State Reps Ana Hernandez and Jessica Farrar and several Democratic judicial candidates and met dozens of local voters who had come to learn more about the upcoming election. It was a great event, and Mike was glad to have attended.

That night, the GLBTPC threw a July 4th party for the ages at the ROC bar downtown. The attendees were treated to great food, a reading by an author from his new book, and some amazing patriotic songs from a terrific singer.

From the balcony, we were able to see the fireworks from Eleanor Tinsley Park. The party did not wind down until late that night. It was a terrific way to cap off a long, but rewarding day of campaigning.

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Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Engelhart Marches in front of 200,000 in 2008 Pride Parade

2008-07-20T18:44:00.003-05:00

On June 28th, Mike Engelhart marched in front of 200k onlookers along with more than 20 other Harris County Democratic candidates. The screaming throngs were ecstatic to see the great Democratic turnout.

Before the parade, Mike participated in the HRA's voter identification project in which volunteers helped ID hundreds of Pride celebrants to make sure they get registered to vote for the November election.

The night was amazing, Mike ran from side to side fist-bumping and shaking hands with the 10-deep crowd. It was an amazing time.

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Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Even Hotze Agrees it's Time for a Change!

2008-06-18T20:21:00.005-05:00

You're not going to believe Stephen Hotze's column in the Bellaire Examiner this week. You may know Dr. Hotze, the Republican king-maker. Where Rudy Giuliani is Mr. "noun-verb 9/11," Dr. Hotze's columns are analogous: "noun-verb socialism." He is not a friend of progressives, historically, except for this week.

To begin with, the column is titled: "No justice for the common man with GOP judges." That's amazing enough on its own. The column then goes on to rail against the 14th Court of Appeals three-judge panel's decision to take away the substantial Vioxx verdict from Brazoria County.

Dr. Hotze complains that Vioxx's makers knew about the problems with the drug and the connection between the drug and heart attacks, according to him, and that they had hid those problems prior to receiving FDA approval.

He railed about the fact that this was no plaintiff's jury, 11 of the 12 were registered Republicans, and the trial judge was Republican as well. This was no runaway tribunal. The court of appeals reversed the trial court's judgment in favor of the widowed plaintiff, and determined she should receive nothing.

He ends the piece like this:

Yet the Republican judges on the 14th Court of Appeals sided with the pharmaceutical giant Merck and reversed the decision for the widow of Bob Ernst and left her empty handed.

It's high time that we elect judges who will uphold justice for the common man and not side with the corporations who want no liability for their corrupt actions.

Whatever one thinks about Stephen Hotze, the evidence in the Ernst case, or level playing fields in courtrooms (I am in favor of the last one), one has to be shocked by Hotze's willingness to call for a revolution in our courts. Even he can see that this one-party system in Harris County and on our local courts of appeal and the Texas Supreme Court has gone too far. It is time to restore balance to our courts. Elect Democratic judges in 2008!

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Read about excellent judges.

Republican Convention Mercifully Closes in Houston

2008-06-17T15:26:00.009-05:00

The Texas State Republican Convention is over, thank goodness. This is the high class, high-minded message that has apparently been delivered to the sleepy, bored attendees:

This button was on sale at the convention. Nice bunch of folks, eh? Apparently other vendors had buttons that said: "Press 1 for English, Press 2 for Deportation." Stay classy, Republicans . . .

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Read about Excellent Judges.

Engelhart Attends UH Law Center Alumni Meeting

2008-06-15T17:58:00.003-05:00

On the evening of Tuesday, June 10, 2008, the engelhart4judge.com 2008 green hybrid coasted silently through the downtown streets of Houston to 919 Milam to attend the UH Law Center alumni annual reception and meeting. The Coronado Club was filled to the gills with alums. Recently-made-permanent Dean Ray Nimmer spoke, and Jim Perdue, Jr. was the master of ceremonies.

Mike got to see some old friends, and discuss his campaign with several of the attendees. Representatives of some of the earliest classes at UHLC were in attendance as well. As everyone knows, the Law Center has produced some of the country's best and most successful attorneys, and even some excellent judges.

It was a very nice evening, and Mike looks forward to the UHLC reception at the State Bar meeting next week as well.

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

South Asian Chamber of Commerce Gives Engelhart Warm Welcome

2008-06-15T17:44:00.005-05:00

Mike attended the South Asian Chamber of Commerce Gala on Thursday, June 5 at the Westin Oaks Hotel at the Houston Galleria.

The event was almost SRO, as hundreds packed in to the ballroom to celebrate this amazing group's growing economic and political muscle. Mustafa Tameez was an organizer and spoke eloquently. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff and Mayor Bill White were the headliners.

Mike had a great chance to speak with attendees and talk about his prospective role as district court judge. Everyone he spoke with expressed terrific enthusiasm about the opportunity for changing and diversifying Harris County's government.

Mike expects to continue to be involved with this group of engaged citizens, who are always looking for excellent judges, and looks forward to building the relationship with them through the campaign and beyond.

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bell
aire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Engelhart Walks for Respect

2008-06-15T17:33:00.005-05:00

On Thursday June 5, Mike Engelhart had the wonderful opportunity to walk in the 1st Annual Walk for Respect in Memorial Park. The event was put together by the Anti-Defamation League and other local civil rights groups. Its purpose was to bring attention to the ongoing need for tolerance and understanding between different minority and majority groups, as well as to commemorate the 10th Anniversary of the horrific dragging death of James Byrd, Jr. James' family was in attendance, as well as representatives from PFLAG, the NAACP, and LULAC.

The walk kicked off around 11 a.m., and participants followed a banner around the 3 mile park walking trail.

Mike was able to speak with the walk's many participants and learn their concerns and what led them to be involved in this historic undertaking. A Gatorade-like drink called "Respect" was distributed, and, happily, everyone seemed to be able to complete the walk without falling over from the heat.

Mike was proud to be a part of this event, and will certainly be a part of next year's walk as well.

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Engelhart Wins Coveted AFL-CIO Endorsement!

2008-06-09T13:43:00.004-05:00

IT'S OFFICIAL! Mike Engelhart has been endorsed by the Harris County AFL-CIO in his race for the 151st Civil District Court! This is a huge and important endorsement for any candidate, and the campaign is proud to announce that it went to Mike and not to his incumbent opponent.

Unions are a very important contributor to society. They should be respected and welcomed in Texas and in Harris County because of their vital efforts on behalf of working people and their families.

Mike is very proud to have won this key endorsement.

Mike has also been previously endorsed by, among other groups and individuals, the Houston Police Patrolmen's Union for the general election.

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Engelhart Attends GLBT Caucus Meeting and Howard Nations Fundraiser

2008-06-05T21:23:00.005-05:00

On Wednesday evening, Mike attended the HGLBTPC endorsement meeting. Several prominent local candidates were present and got to speak to the group, including Chief C.O. Bradford, the Democratic nominee for District Attorney, Adrian Garcia, the Democratic nominee for Sheriff, and Michael Skelly, CD-7 nominee.

Prior to the speeches and the votes on endorsements, the Caucus held a wonderful reception and Mike had a great chance to speak with the Caucus leadership, as well as mingle with current City Council members and meet some first time Caucus meeting attendees.

After that the engelhart4judge.com 2008 green hybrid cruised over to The Sterling Mansion on Yoakum Street for a fundraiser thrown by local attorney Howard Nations. The Mansion is a beautifully restored home/office, and the event was packed. It was beautifully coordinated with strolling troubadours. The event was a terrific success.

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Engelhart Cooks with West End Democrats

2008-05-31T11:32:00.008-05:00

On Saturday morning, Mike put his world famous dish, tortilla de patatas, into the engelhart4judge.com 2008 green hybrid and coasted silently, in electric-only mode, over to the Rice Military area. There he met with the West End Democrats. There were about 20 Democratic candidates at this pot-luck breakfast. We got to introduce ourselves to this lively and attentive group.

We explained the importance of voting straight-ticket this year, or at least voting in every race all the way down the November ballot.

Our hosts had a lovely home tucked away just north of Memorial, just west of Shepherd. It's a beautiful area, and the Democrats as a slate of candidates were very thankful for the opportunity to spend the morning with the West End Democrats.

Mike looks forward to visiting with them again soon.

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Engelhart's Opponent Concedes that Republicans Can't Win Harris County

2008-05-30T21:46:00.006-05:00

Mike's Republican opponent for the 151st Civil District Court is afraid (or ashamed) to admit she's a Republican. Her "excuse-me" yard signs made their first appearance in May, 2008 (gotta be a record). Here's a picture:

Notice anything? Anything missing? Oh yeah, her party! Mike's REPUBLICAN opponent is afraid to tell Harris County residents that she is a REPUBLICAN! If that is not an implicit admission of the tough row Republicans must hoe in Harris County this year, then we don't know what is.

Members of the party that won election after election in Harris County for 15 years is now not willing to admit their party affiliation. We can not logically conclude that bodes well for them in November.

UPDATE

LOL REPUBLICANZ:

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Engelhart Attends HTLA Gathering

2008-05-30T21:38:00.003-05:00

The Pearl Bar on Washington, an industrial-style refurbished bodega was the scene of the HTLA's event on Thursday evening, May 29, 2008. The engelhart4judge.com 2008 green hybrid cruised silently in electric-only mode down Washington looking for a place to park, and circled, and circled, and circled, and finally found a spot.

The bar was jam-packed with Mike's good friends and colleagues, each of whom was well aware of the Democrats ferocious campaign, and each of whom was exceedingly confident of Democratic victory this fall in Harris County and beyond.

The attendees snapped up Mike's magnetic bumper stickers. They pledged their support, and everyone had a good time. Mike made some new friends, and caught up with some old ones. We discussed the news of the day, and many agreed that change must come to Harris County's courts at the earliest possible moment.

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Spring Branch Democrats Welcome Mike Engelhart

2008-05-30T21:30:00.004-05:00

Mike's last stop on Wednesday night, May 28, 2008, was a yummy Tex-Mex restaurant off of Hwy 290, just outside Loop 610.

There the new and hyper-enthusiastic and energetic Spring Branch Democrats were having their monthly meeting. The group is led by the very dynamic Christina Walsh. It was a two-fer, as Mike got to enjoy some delicious fajitas, and speak with a group of well-organized activists.

They had insightful and important questions for Mike, and he was very pleased to have the opportunity to meet them. He passed out bumper magnets and push cards, and had a terrific time. Mike looks forward to visiting with them again soon.

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Engelhart Gets to Visit with Harris County AFL-CIO

2008-05-30T20:58:00.006-05:00

It was Mike Engelhart's great pleasure this past Wednesday evening to speak before the membership of the Harris County AFL-CIO. As regular readers of Mike's blog will remember, unions are a big part of Mike's life. Mike maternal grandfather, Harry Avrutin, was the Secretary of New York Central Labor Council for many years prior to his death in 1988. He was a big part of Mike's childhood, and Mike remembers attending Labor Day Parades, meeting local and national leaders, and hearing stories about unions battling for the little guy.

Mike got a chance to speak to the group, and asked them directly for their endorsement. As he said, it would be a great honor to receive this group's backing, and it would go a long way to show that Mike intends to be a judge for all of Harris County and for all Texans, rather than just a judge for an elite few. Oddly, no Republicans were present asking for the group's endorsement.

Mike's Grandfather Supervising Office Workers' Protest in 1930s in New York City.

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Engelhart Meets the Katy Area Chamber of Commerce

2008-05-30T20:33:00.007-05:00

On a beautiful Wednesday, this week, the engelhart4judge.com 2008 green hybrid made the trek to western Harris County to attend a networking luncheon held by the Katy Area Chamber of Commerce. These are the same folks who help put on the Katy Rice Harvest Festival and many other worthwhile events throughout the year.

Mike got to meet dozens of powerful Katy area business and community leaders. He was introduced to the group as a whole as well. It was very well attended and the members and guests were very enthusiastic about Mike's campaign. Everyone Mike spoke with agreed with the need for change in Harris County.

It was a terrific opportunity for the campaign, and Mike thanks the Chamber for their excellent hospitality.

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Moving Memorial Day Commemoration for Engelhart

2008-05-26T18:59:00.013-05:00

Harris County Precinct 3 is home to the War Memorial monument in Bear Creek Park. The engelhart4judge.com 2008 green hybrid coasted silently in electric-only mode to the western part of the County to pay the campaign's respects to our fallen heroes.

The ceremonies were very well done. They took place at the pavilion adjacent to the County's permanent memorials. They are lovely stone walls with the names of those killed carved into the rock. There are WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam, and Persian Gulf monoliths. The last is a newly placed round structure that seems to contain both Gulf War (1990-91) names and names from the current conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan.

A gentleman from the Harris County veterans' services department spoke movingly about having served as a Marine in the 1960s including a 13 month combat tour in Vietnam. He spoke in practical terms about the programs for injured and sick veterans that Harris County has to offer. The Harris County Veterans Services Office is located at 9418 Jensen Drive, Suite 200, Houston, Texas 77093. Their number is 281-876-6600. Veterans and their spouses should call this office right away if they are not already benefiting from these programs.

When taps was played after the jarring 21 gun salute, two women behind me were sobbing inconsolably. The trumpeter played a moving ode to those who gave the ultimate sacrifice.

Mike was wearing his nametag listing the position he is seeking and that he is a Democrat, and several people came up to him to tell him they thought Democrats were going to do very well in Harris County this year.

There were no Republican elected officials or candidates present at this lone official Harris County Memorial Day observance, unfortunately. Though the organizer of the event was ostensibly Commissioner Steve Radack, he, too, was absent. That was confusing as well.

UPDATE

My friend and great advisor, Toni Medellin, formerly of Kingwood, had this to say:

Mike,

Of all the campaign emails I received this weekend, your Memorial Day message was by far the most meaningful. Thanks for running and reminding people what democracy is all about.

I hope things are going well in Houston/Harris County. We're getting settled in in Dallas, but there is still a ways to go.

Toni

That was nice. Thank you, Toni.

Here are some photos of the event:

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Engelhart's Reflections on Memorial Day

2008-05-25T10:17:00.008-05:00

This is the second Memorial Day of the engelhart4judge.com 2008 campaign. We'll be attending a ceremony in western Harris County tomorrow to commemorate and give thanks for the sacrifices of those who gave their lives of this great country.

To be honest, though, we at engelhart4judge.com 2008 believe that the best way to commemorate the deaths of those soldiers is to ensure that they were not in vain.

That is, flag lapel pins and yellow ribbons are not enough. We need to ensure that starting this year, we aggressively restore our democracy. We as a country need to elect people who care deeply about our Constitution and the rights of individuals to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

In that way, we can ensure our future security because those who are contemplating joining our armed forces will be more inclined to do so because they will know that they are serving the greatest country in the world.

We hope that you and your family have a relaxing, and peaceful Memorial Day weekend, and that you take time to think about what truly makes our country great.

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Excitement in the Air at Strawberry Festival

2008-05-18T21:15:00.005-05:00

Faithful readers of the engelhart4judge.com 2008 blog will no doubt remember this entry from last May in which I discussed campaigning at the Pasadena Strawberry Festival. Well, it's hard to believe that was almost one year ago, and we had already been campaigning hard for a few months at that point.

Well, it's Strawberry Festival time again this weekend, and on Sunday, May 18 the engelhart4judge.com 2008 green hybrid made its second trip of the campaign out to the Pasadena Fairgrounds for the Festival. We coasted silently along Fairmont Parkway in electric-only mode and found a great spot near the entrance to the festivities.

This year we tried something different. We parked on the the north side of the Festival grounds which were much busier than the south side we campaigned at last year. And we held up a yard sign so even people whose hands we didn't get to shake would see who we were and what we were doing there.

While last year we ran across the occasional Republican who was not interested in talking to us, we didn't run across a single one this year (at least who was willing to cop to it). Almost everyone we met thanked us for running, and expressed their willingness to come out in November, and vote straight-ticket Democrat, or at least go all the way down the ballot.

The enthusiasm of the attendees was contagious. When they saw the "Mike Engelhart, Democrat" sign we held, they uniformly stopped to shake hands and get more information. They all swore they were registered to vote and would be there for us in November.

It was another amazing day for this humble campaign, and things really seem to be snowballing for us Democrats. The people we spoke with in eastern Harris County on Sunday seemed ready to run through walls for Democrats to bring back balance to Harris County again in November.

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

More Bad Pub for the all Republican Texas Supreme Court

2008-05-13T12:55:00.004-05:00

The Texas Supreme Court has 9 members -- all Republicans. They are getting some pretty bad publicity lately.

One Justice's wife was indicted for felony arson.

Now local media is looking into whether the Justice's campaign contributions can be used to predict the outcomes of their cases.

DO NOT WANT . . .

to be a Republican this year.

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Things Go from Bad to Worse for the GOP

2008-05-12T21:14:00.006-05:00

National view of Republican economy

A Research 2000 poll confirmed the earlier Rasmussen Texas poll showing a neck and neck US Senate race between John Cornyn and Col. Rick Noriega.

The earlier poll, HERE, completed May 1, 2008, showed the sitting Republican Senator, Cornyn, receiving 47% and the little-known Democratic candidate closing fast at 43%.

The more recent poll, taken from May 5 through May 7, 2008, showed a similar result, with Cornyn getting 48% and Noriega getting 44%.

If that's the status of the race, and it seems like it is as shown by these two polls, in May, then it's only going to get worse for the GOP candidate. And, as I've said before, if Noriega's that close statewide, then he must be well ahead in Harris County!

Look for the Democratic National Committee and the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee to put some money into this race, and for Sen. Obama to campaign in very-competitive Texas!

Dems are going to take back Harris County in 2008. It's getting clearer by the day!

UPDATE:

A new ABC/Washington Post poll had this interesting tidbit about Democratic/Republican matchups in general:

Overall, Democrats hold a 21-percentage-point advantage over Republicans as the party better equipped to handle the nation's problems.

That can't hurt Democrats chances in Harris County in November, either.

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Engelhart Visits 1960 Area Democrats

2008-05-12T20:56:00.003-05:00

The engelhart4judge.com 2008 green hybrid silently braved rush hour traffic to head north, in electric-only mode to the Doss Community Center to visit with the 1960 Area Democrats. They were holding their monthly meeting. Attendance was through the roof, as they are still excited about the March 4 Primary, and the upcoming State Convention in August.

The group filled a room at the community center that was located just off of Veterans Memorial, just south of the Sam Houston Tollway. Members were steadily streaming in as Mike delivered a 5 minute talk. The group was worked up and asked a lot of good questions. They all took car bumper magnets and promised to put them on their cars.

They wanted to know how they could help. Mike stressed the importance of voting straight ticket Democrat, or at least voting all the way down the ballot, as the down-ballot races are every bit as important to their day to day lives as who they elect President, Senator and Representative. They all nodded in agreement.

They were all aware of the strong slate of candidates Democrats have county-wide, and seemed ready to run through walls to get Democrats elected in Harris County in 2008. It was a great experience. Mike is already looking forward to visiting them again in the fall. He ended by inviting them to the victory party in November!

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Republicans Unraveling All Around

2008-05-06T16:21:00.004-05:00

Several news stories show that the Texas and national Republican parties are in deep deep trouble in 2008. I would be very concerned to be a Republican in Harris County this year. It has to be troubling indeed to see this once dominant party fall away to irrelevance.

First, there's the special election in Louisiana that just finished up. In it, Don Cazayoux, the Democrat, beat Woody Jenkins, the Republican, for an open seat that had been held by Republicans since 1974. This is after Hurricanes Rita and Katrina had depleted the Democratic base in that state considerably. And, the Republican had tried to tie Cazayoux to Barack Obama in a negative fashion. Remember, this is the second special election that Democrats have won recently in strong traditionally Republican strongholds. Bill Foster won former House Speaker Dennis Hastert's seat in Illinois in March of this year.

Second, in this recent article, a new study shows that trial lawyers are no longer perceived as the complete bogeyman they have been over the last several election cycles, and Republican tactics of associating Democrats with them may not be as effective. The author notes:

But the public attitude is changing, according to Republican pollster Bryan Eppstein, who has been tracking this issue for several years for the Texas Medical Association.

In his most recent voter survey, trial lawyers dropped to third — behind health insurance companies and drug manufacturers — when respondents were asked, “Whom do you blame most for the high cost of health care in Texas?”

So, when Republicans inevitably drag out the old, tired line about trial lawyers, the may "misunderestimate" the public who appears to be on to them.

Third, Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich (R-Ga.) is calling on Republicans to seek "real change to avoid a real disaster," and warns of impending national Republican electoral doom. Newt sees the writing on the wall, and he wants nothing to do with it.

Fourth, here in Texas, it is becoming clear that the entire state is becoming disenchanted with the Republican Party. A recent Rasmussen Poll showed that Democratic US Sen. candidate Rick Noriega trails Republican incumbent John Cornyn by only four points, 47-43. This is a statewide poll, which means that Rick Noriega must be leading John Cornyn significantly in Harris County.

With all of the great candidates the Democrats have been and are fielding in Harris County, it looks like it's a bad bad year to be a Republican.

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Harris County GOP Under Fire from Federal Judge

2008-05-01T11:27:00.004-05:00

Here's an interesting press release from David Mincberg's campaign I thought I'd share. I think the failure of leadership goes well beyond Ed Emmett, and into a general unresponsiveness and sense of entitlement that has ossified the Republicans in Harris County and caused them to ignore the citizens' everyday needs for good government and fundamental fairness for too long:

Federal Judge Questions Harris County Leadership

Emmett’s lackluster leadership cost Harris County taxpayers at least $5.4 million … and counting.

Houston, Texas, May 1st, 2008 — On Tuesday, Federal District Judge Kenneth Hoyt faulted Harris County for refusing to settle the Ibarras case, even though its own legal experts were telling them it was in the county’s best interest. In his decision Judge Hoyt talked about “the absence of leadership in the handling of Harris County’s business” and ruled that Harris County must pay an addition $1.4 million in lawyers fees to Ibarras attorneys. That’s on top of the $1.7 million the county paid to the Ibarra brothers.

“A Federal Judge is telling Ed Emmett that business as usual needs to come to an end in Harris County,” said David Mincberg. “At a time when Harris County government is facing political scandals, indictments, ethics violations, and resignations, the last thing we need is a lack of leadership. What we don’t need is more wasteful spending.”

The Ibarra brothers sued Harris County in 2004 after their civil rights were violated when sheriff’s deputies stormed their house and arrested them after they filmed a raid on the next door property. Harris County used 26 attorneys on the Ibarras case costing taxpayers nearly $2.3 million in billable hours. According to Judge Hoyt, two to four attorneys would have been “more than sufficient.”

“Harris County taxpayers deserve a County Judge who provides leadership and doesn’t mismanage their money,” Mincberg concluded. “As a successful businessman, not a career politician, I know how to run things honestly and efficiently. I have created jobs, opportunity, growth, and success. I’ll bring that same hands-on approach to Harris County government.”

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Fantastic Fundraising Fest @ Solar & Padilla Last Thursday!

2008-04-25T21:19:00.004-05:00

The engelhart4judge.com 2008 green hybrid (silently) fought rush hour traffic (in electric-only mode, of course) to get over to the Galleria area office of Solar & Padilla. There the campaign was given an amazing fundraiser Thursday Night. Great turnout of committed supporters. We raised a significant amount of money for our cause, and got to meet some new friends, and see some old friends again. Thanks to John Padilla and James Rodriguez for being terrific hosts. And thanks to the guests for their heartwarming show of support, both financial and otherwise. It really gave our campaign another shot in the arm!

John Padilla is a good friend and adviser, and just about the best lawyer in Houston.

A nice woman from Steve Lee's office gave our favorite candidate a very sweet compliment: She said she could tell from the candidate's speech that he had a big heart, and that will serve him well when he takes over the 151st in January. Wasn't that nice?

We're well on our way to taking back Harris County for the PEOPLE of Harris County.

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Engelhart's Republican Opponent Offends Democrats, Admits She's Behind!

2008-04-23T08:50:00.009-05:00

Mike Engelhart 's Republican opponent in the 151st Civil District Court is named Caroline E. Baker. She has been on the bench since she barely won a very tight 1996 election that occurred during the height of the Republican dismantling of Harris County's government.

In the last week she sent out a fundraising alert to her potential supporters. Here is an image of that urgent release:

In the second paragraph, in bold, Baker writes:

Unfortunately, I face a democratic opponent in the upcoming general election. These are tough times for incumbents, and I need your help more than ever to continue my service.

Now, first of all, Mike Engelhart is a Democrat with a capital "D". It is not correct to call Mike Engelhart's political party "the democratic party". It is a proper noun and must be capitalized. You'll never see Mike label his opponent as a "republican". This failure to properly respect the name of an opponent's political party is either (1) sloppy, (2) uninformed, or (3) mean spirited.

Another possibility is that Mike's opponent concedes that Mike is the only "democratic" candidate, suggesting that Judge Baker is somehow undemocratic???

Regardless, this lack of respect and game-playing is both symbolic and symptomatic of unchecked Republican power in Harris County that has gone on far too long, and must stop in 2008! It does nothing to help regular citizens of Harris County improve their lives.

Another example of Mike's Republican opponent's worldview is a 2007 fundraising invitation she sent out. Here is that invite:

As you can see in the second paragraph, Judge Baker writes:

You may be aware that all of the judicial incumbents standing for re-election in 2008 have been guaranteed opponents irrespective of our records of service.

This is flabbergasting! Judge Baker's office is a political, elected office. It is not a lifetime appointment, nor a birthright. Judge Baker has gone without an opponent for several election cycles, as have most incumbent Republicans in Harris County. Running unopposed should be the exception, not the norm. Without an opponent, there is no balance, and nothing to keep an elected official responsive to the needs of his or her constituents.

It has never had anything to do with a politician's "record of service" as Judge Baker writes. It has to do with having to answer to the citizens of Harris County to be able to hold on to your job!

Again, it is time that Harris County Republicans had to face the music, regardless of their "record of service." Mike Engelhart is running to bring that balance and responsiveness back to Harris County's courts.

Political advertising paid for by Mike Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

Republicans Admit Fearing the Coming Change in Harris County

2008-04-10T14:32:00.008-05:00

Interesting article in the Chronicle today by Alan Bernstein discussing and dissecting the results of the Republican DA runoff election in Harris County. The people quoted mostly attributed Pat Lykos's win over Kelly Siegler to (1) Siegler's perceived closeness to disgraced former DA Chuck Rosenthal, and (2) the desire for change this year. Gary Polland, Republican bigwig had this to say:

"Part of it also is related to the national campaign," Polland added. "(Siegler) became a victim of (Barack) Obama, (John) McCain and Hillary (Rodham Clinton) — they are talking about 'we are the candidate of change."

GARY POLLAND

Here is a LINK to the article.

Interestingly, the comments to the online version of the article also lay some blame at the feet of various Republican consultants, one of whom has a role in my race for the 151st Civil District Court. Let's hope this call for change continues through November!

Political advertising paid for by Michael C. Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.

2008-04-07T21:24:00.003-05:00

On Saturday, March 29, 2008, the engelhart4judge.com 2008 green hybrid coasted silently in electric-only mode to 2 different Senate District Conventions around Harris County. First, we headed over to the Senate District 17 convention at Alief Elsik High School. Though the school has a monstrous parking lot for a high school, it was packed to the gills. Likewise, that was the situation when I got inside. The convention took over the entire school it seemed, with precincts stationed at cafeteria tables spread through the halls, and all open spaces in the campus. Democrats were busily discussing, certifying, and politicking. I got to shake several hundred hands and introduce myself to Democratic activists from all over the area. They were uniformly excited to meet me, the nominee, and I was happy to get to speak with them.

Then the campaign coach cruised to the Sam Houston Race Park for the Senate District 7 Convention. That setup was much different, though, as at Elsik High, there were approximately 7000 folks in attendance. Here they were jammed into a pavilion with almost no a/c and rows of seats facing the stage. Precincts were meeting throughout the wings of the arena and outside on the lawn in circles of chairs. They were diligently and proudly doing their jobs and doing democracy.

In front of about 100 rows of seats was a dais with an unguarded microphone. Your favorite candidate (me) got to speak to the thousands in attendance about who I was, and the importance of coming back to vote for the Democrats in November. I talked about our great slate of candidates and our opportunity to bring balance back to Harris County's courts in 2008. Everyone was yelling, clapping and stamping their feet. I was yelling at the top of my lungs. It was a terrific, gratifying experience.

After that, dozens came up to me to shake my hand. I passed out hundreds of my cards, and stressed the importance of voting in December all the way down the ballot. I talked to the precincts outside, too, and they were really fired up. They asked important and thoughtful questions. I left feeling exhilarated and proud of my days' work with these dedicated Democrats.

I am looking forward to speaking to the Harris County delegates at the State Convention in Austin in June!

Political advertising paid for by Michael C. Engelhart, 4402 Holt Street, Bellaire, Texas 77401 in compliance with the voluntary limits of the Judicial Campaign Fairness Act.