230 Angel Tree Gifts Given to CPS children PDF Print E-mail
Written by Administrator   
Monday, 10 December 2007
(AUSTIN) - Nadine Craddick, wife of Speaker Tom Craddick, today presented 230 gifts to representatives from Child and Family Protective Services and Partnerships for Children. The gifts were all purchased and donated by individuals who took gift tags from this year's Angel Tree at the capitol, and benefit abused and neglected children in central Texas. 

"I am elated that so many people get involved with this holiday tradition every year," Nadine Craddick, wife of Speaker Tom Craddick said. "Gifts come from capitol staffers, legislators and visitors to the capitol. It is such a blessing that we can ensure that these children have a special Christmas, no matter what their current situation."

For the past five years, an Angel Tree has been placed outside the Capitol Grill that is decorated with gift requests from children under the care of Child Protective Services. This year's tree was set up shortly after the Thanksgiving holiday, and was sponsored by the Texas House of Representatives and the Texas Senate. Those who participated in the Angel Tree donations were instructed to buy the requested gift listed on the tag and return it to the Speaker's Office by December 10th. This morning, the presentation of the gifts was made around the Christmas tree in the House Chamber. 

Under the leadership of Nadine Craddick, the Angel Tree project at the capitol has become an eagerly awaited and enthusiastically supported tradition," Patsy Spaw, Secretary of the Senate, said. "I continue to be amazed at the generosity of Capitol staff.

“At CPS we are always grateful for the many valuable partners we have,” Carey D. Cockerell, Commissioner of the Department of Family and Protective Services, said. “And that is especially true during this holiday season. It is an exciting time of year for children, and thanks to the Speaker's Office, the Texas Legislature and Partnerships for Children, a time when wishes really can come true.”

“We are so pleased to work with the Speaker’s office for the fifth year to make the holiday wishes of abused children in the care of CPS come true," said Brande Camp Yarnell, Executive Director, Partnerships for Children. "Mrs. Craddick has been a wonderful advocate and recruiter for this program, and this year we are excited that the legislature adopted even more children to help us meet our goal.”

In addition to the gifts around the House Christmas Tree was a life size St. Nicholas. Standing at six feet, this St. Nicholas was designed and sculpted by Jackie Cruse of Creative Concepts by Jackie, in Post, Texas. Previously an award winning chef, Cruse began making these Santa Claus figures and other seasonal characters in the 1990s. His sculptures have been marketed by Neiman-Marcus, Jacobson's Department Stores, Boscov's Department Stores, the Washington Redskin's Football organization, Dallas Cowboy's owner Jerry Jones and QVC. 

"As a native Texan and artist, it is a distinct privilege to share my work with my fellow Texas citizens," Mr. Cruse said. "I am deeply appreciative of the honor of having one of my Santa creations on display at our beautiful and historic state Capitol, and to be able to be here for the Angel Tree Presentation."
Last Updated ( Friday, 14 December 2007 )
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