Anita Perry emphasizes importance of restoring mansion

First Lady Anita Perry (photo) and Former First Families Emphasize Importance of Restoring Texas Governor's Mansion

Austin – First Lady Anita Perry today asked former governors and Texas first families to serve on an advisory committee to assist in mansion fundraising and restoration efforts.

Mrs. Perry made the request at an informal breakfast meeting Thursday with representatives of former first families, where she relayed the status of mansion restoration efforts following the June 8th arson. Mrs. Perry noted that the former governors, first ladies and members of former first families all share a common bond from their days of living at the mansion.

"Although it is a tragedy that has brought us together, the images of the significant damage borne by this Texas treasure is a powerful call to action," said Mrs. Perry. "Today’s gathering of first families is a shining example of how restoring our historic Governor’s Mansion reaches beyond politics and partisanship, and into the shared sentiment of all Texans that we must rebuild this monument."

Former Govs. Dolph Briscoe and Mark White participated in the news conference, as did family members representing the late Govs. Price Daniel, Ann Richards, Preston Smith and Allan Shivers. Former first family members’ involvement and support of restoration efforts is not limited to those attending the event.

Mrs. Perry also shared a letter sent by First Lady Laura Bush, who was unable to attend the event but expressed her and the president’s support of ongoing restoration efforts. Mrs. Perry is chair of the Texas Governor’s Mansion Restoration Fund, the non-profit organization created to raise money to help restore Texas’ historic home. Pamela Willeford serves as vice-chair.

Those who wish to contribute to the mansion restoration may do so securely at www.texasonline.com, or send a check or money order made to:
"Texas Governor’s Mansion Restoration Fund"

P.O. Box 12878Austin, TX 78711-2878

For questions regarding how to contribute to the Texas Governor’s Mansion Restoration Fund, please call toll free 1-866-751-5829.