[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 51 (Monday, March 31, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E625-E626]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        COMMENDING MR. DON NOVEY

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. JOHN T. DOOLITTLE

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, March 31, 2003

  Mr. DOOLITTLE. Mr. Speaker, today I wish to commend and thank Mr. Don 
Novey who recently retired as president of the California Correctional 
Peace Officers Association (CCPOA) for his many years of dedication to 
improving public safety in the State of California.
  A sixth-generation Californian born in Sacramento, Don Novey earned 
an Associate of Arts degree from American River College. After 
concluding counterintelligence service with the U.S. Army in 1971, Don 
followed in his father's footsteps by becoming a correctional officer 
at Folsom State Prison. This decision was one that not only shaped his 
own future, but eventually resulted in dramatic changes for the entire 
profession in California. Although he was promoted to sergeant in 1977 
and became a lieutenant in 1984, Don's most significant professional 
advancement took place within the leadership ranks of CCPOA.
  Because of his discouragement over the generally negative perception 
and portrayal of ``prison guards'' at the time, Don ran to become the 
union's statewide vice president in 1979. Although unsuccessful in that 
bid, he was elected to the state presidency in 1980, thus beginning a 
22-year tenure at the organization's helm. During that time, he 
transformed the CCPOA from a union with little political clout to one 
that today is arguably the most powerful and influential organization 
involved in state government policymaking. Under his leadership, the 
level of public respect for correctional officers increased 
substantially. At the same time, he succeeded in winning broad support 
from state leaders to improve training, safety, compensation, and 
working conditions for his colleagues.
  While helping his association's membership, Don was equally 
responsible for helping to shape a wide array of policies dealing with 
public safety that have greatly benefited the people of California. Due 
in part to his efforts, the state strengthened its penalties for 
criminal behavior, especially violent crime. Don and his colleagues 
encouraged the California State Legislature and the governor to enact 
no-nonsense laws to address criminal recidivism, namely the ``Three 
Strikes, You're Out'' law.
  It is important to note that Don's firm sense of justice is matched 
by his deep compassion for those who suffer injustice. In 1992, he 
helped establish the Crime Victims United of California; an 
organization which has aided those victimized by criminal behavior and 
their families. The group has elevated their plight in

[[Page E626]]

the consciousness of elected officials and the general public, which 
has led to greater respect and protection for crime victims.
  Don has also served in a number of other important capacities. He has 
been a member of the International Narcotics Law Enforcement 
Association, the National Intelligence Board, Governor George 
Deukmejian's Blue Ribbon Commission on Public Safety, the California 
Industrial Welfare Commission, the California Athletics Commission, and 
the board of the Kevin Collins Foundation, which works to locate 
missing and abducted children.
  Don's own children and grandchildren are a high priority in his life. 
He and his wife, Carol, are the proud parents of Donald, Brandy, and 
Shanon. They also enjoy spending time with their five grandchildren. In 
short, his life so far has been one of hard work and achievement, 
patriotism and service, family and friendship. The people of California 
and the United States are better off for his efforts.
  Now as he enjoys retirement from his career in corrections, I thank 
him for his service, support, and friendship. As a friend and fellow 
resident of my hometown of Rocklin, I wish him well in his future 
endeavors. I have no doubt that we have not heard the last from Don 
Novey.

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