SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 395

WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to recognize Florida Cooper for her courage and perseverance as a community leader and cancer survivor; and

WHEREAS, Florida Cooper was diagnosed with breast cancer in March of 1988; she did not allow her condition to dominate her life, continuing to pursue her career and her involvement in civic affairs; and

WHEREAS, A chance meeting with Carl Stokes, who later became mayor of Cleveland, sparked her interest in politics and led to her involvement in helping numerous qualified candidates gain office; and

WHEREAS, She is founder and president of Friends of Friends, an informal network of professionals and community leaders who pool their resources to support nonprofit, community-based programs and activities; she is also working on building the "Hanging Tough" Garden Cottage and Resource Center, a facility providing services and ministering to the needs of those diagnosed with cancer; and

WHEREAS, On February 19, 2011, her friends and family gathered at the Private Retreat in Houston to jointly celebrate her birthday and her status as a 22-year cancer survivor; a beloved and respected member of her community, she is noted for her compassion for others and her enthusiasm for living each day to the fullest; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 82nd Legislature, hereby commend Florida Cooper on her dedication and fortitude and extend to her best wishes for continuing success in all her endeavors; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for her as an expression of esteem from the Texas Senate.

Ellis

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on February 28, 2011.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate