Capitol Police give kids bikes for Christmas

A total of 34 needy kids will get new bicycles and helmets courtesy of the annual Bikes for Kids drive organized by the Capitol Police.

Cpl. Randal Smith said seven of the bikes will go to the Eagle Valley Children's Home, primarily to siblings of the patients there. He said the remaining bikes were turned over to the Salvation Army, which will distribute them.

Smith said he wanted to thank Wal-Mart for giving them a discount on the bikes. He said special thanks go to "Rich the bike builder" at the Douglas County Wal-Mart, who put them all together, and his supervisor Angie.

In addition, Trooper Cindy Campbell of the Nevada State Law Enforcement Officers Association presented Donna Clark of the children's home and Salvation Army Captain Erica Helton each with $500 checks from the association's members, which include the Nevada Highway Patrol.

Smith said those weren't the only gifts they handed out Wednesday. He said also donated by groups of state workers were numerous teddy bears and other stuffed animals, blankets, hand crocheted hats, scarves and gloves.

This is the sixth year the Capitol Police have bought bikes and helmets for the needy. Smith said this is the largest number of bikes they have had yet.

It's the first year the officer's association has participated, but he said he hopes they join in next year again.