[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 157 (2011), Part 1]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 951]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                   CENTER FOR AMERICAN VALUES TRIBUTE

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. SCOTT R. TIPTON

                              of colorado

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, January 26, 2011

  Mr. TIPTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize The Center for 
American Values (CAV) based in Pueblo, Colorado. They recently opened 
their doors with a mission to preserve fundamental American ideals 
including honor, integrity and patriotism. The organization is 
committed to ensuring that the values this nation was founded on are 
passed down to future generations.
  The Center for American Values launch late last year was inspired by 
a few devoted individuals who seek to recognize citizens who have taken 
great risks in the name of protecting America's freedom. CAV's mission 
statement is concise: ``A nonpartisan organization committed to 
recognizing the need to honor the extreme sacrifices made to help 
sustain America's values. We strive to ensure these extraordinary 
actions are preserved . . . forever.'' CAV emphasizes Medal of Honor 
recipients and other military heroes, and fittingly so--Pueblo is the 
home of four Medal of Honor recipients. Cofounders Drew Dix, a Vietnam 
veteran and Medal of Honor winner, and Dr. Adolph Padula, who produced 
a documentary on Medal of Honor recipients, saw CAV as an opportunity 
to ensure that American citizens do not forget what makes our nation 
unique and exceptional. Both men also note that CAV honors heroes from 
all segments of society. For instance, the organization stresses 
remembrance of those who have taken economic risks when starting a new 
business. Regardless of their background, risk-takers continue to 
propel our country forward.
  Currently, The Center for American Values is directed by Tom Allee, 
with support from its corporate officers Brad Padula and Drew Dix, and 
board members Sue Smith and Bob Root. CAV is lined with over 140 
pictures of Medal of Honor recipients and the building that the 
organization occupies has been fully renovated from its previous 
crumbling state. Through community outreach, educational opportunities, 
and frequent conferences and partnerships with charitable 
organizations, the CAV will continue to carry out its mission statement 
for years to come. Ultimately, CAV hopes to influence societal values 
on a national stage.
  Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I stand here today to 
recognize The Center for American Values. Their commitment to the 
public good and preservation of fundamental American ideals is a great 
service to the citizens of Pueblo and the nation at large.

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