[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 8 (Wednesday, January 14, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E89-E90]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                IN RECOGNITION OF CHRISTINA MELTON CRAIN

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. PETE SESSIONS

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, January 14, 2009

  Mr. SESSIONS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Christina 
Melton Crain who is being recognized by the Texas Department of 
Criminal Justice (TDCJ) with the dedication of a unit after her 
namesake.
  Christina was first appointed to the Texas State Board of Criminal 
Justice (TBCJ) in April 2001 and in February 2003 she became the first 
woman in Texas history to lead the nine-member board as its new Chair. 
Under her leadership, she worked closely with the TDCJ,

[[Page E90]]

determined to make its operations more efficient and effective. Her 
passion stems from her professional career as an attorney where she 
encountered numerous cases of minors that had been negatively impacted 
by a parent under correctional supervision. She personally committed 
herself to the GOKIDS (Giving Offenders' Kids the Initiative and 
Direction to Succeed). Initiative, which launched in 2004 and is 
dedicated to reaching out to the offenders and their families. 
Christina foresaw a safer and better Texas and a brighter future for 
all Texans and took every effort to make this goal a reality. The State 
of Texas has greatly benefited from her dedication, passion, leadership 
and her vision.
  Madam Speaker, I ask my esteemed colleagues to join me in 
congratulating Christina on her hard work and dedication that has led 
to this great honor.

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