Congressman McCaul Sends Cypress Constituent to the White House

(AUSTIN) - Ms. Elaine Chrisman of Cypress was chosen to paint an ornament that would represent the 10th Congressional District on the White House Christmas tree. Each designated artist was invited to the White House to view their ornament on the tree in December. Ms. Chrisman attended the White House reception on December 2nd.

A survivor of Hurricane Ike, Ms. Chrisman painted the ornament in her water damaged home with no electricity.

"When I arrived in Washington it was more than I ever expected. This was a chance in a lifetime for me and my mother. Some may think of this as just a Christmas ornament but I thought it was a chance to see and feel the history, past and present, what American Spirit stands for, what my community stands for. IKE did not stop me and I know it will not stop my fellow Texans from surviving. I cannot thank the Congressman for all he and his staff does for my community," said Ms. Chrisman.

First Lady Laura Bush asked each member of Congress to designate one artist from his constituency to decorate an ornament for the White House Christmas tree. In a letter to each member of Congress, Mrs. Bush said "Red, White and Blue will deck the halls of the White House as we highlight America this Holiday Season."

"I am so proud to represent Ms. Chrisman. Her American spirit is evident by her perseverance through the aftermath of Hurricane Ike. It is an honor to send Ms. Chrisman to the White House on behalf of the Tenth Congressional District," said Congressman McCaul.

Michael McCaul is currently serving his third term representing Texas' 10th District in the United States Congress. The 10th Congressional District of Texas stretches across 8 counties from Austin to the Houston suburbs, and includes Austin, Bastrop, Burleson, Harris, Lee, Travis, Washington and Waller Counties.