Verizon’s Ivan Seidenberg, Senator Patrick Leahy And Congressman Tom Davis Honored At CEA’s Digital Patriots Dinner

2008 Digital Patriots Recognized for Contributions to Technology Innovation
The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)® honored Verizon chairman and CEO Ivan Seidenberg, Senator Patrick Leahy (D-VT) and Congressman Tom Davis (R-VA) last night at the Fourth Annual Digital Patriots Dinner for their achievements in furthering technology innovation. For the first time in event history, the dinner proceeds benefited the USO of Metropolitan Washington and its support of U.S. troops and their families. The Digital Patriots Dinner was held in conjunction with the CEA Washington Forum, a two-day event focused on technology and policy debates, which runs through today at the JW Marriott in Washington, DC.

“The 2008 Digital Patriots are leaders who recognize that technology is empowering people and economies,” said Gary Shapiro, president and CEO, CEA. “Their tireless efforts to advance innovation are changing the way we work, learn and engage with one another. They are working hard for what they believe in and are embracing technology to help our citizens become better informed and better connected.”

U.S. Senator Patrick Leahy received the first Digital Patriot award of the evening and, as the father of a U.S. Marine, he thanked CEA for partnering with the USO of Metropolitan Washington. Senator Leahy focused his acceptance remarks on the freedom of expression that technology enables, stating, “Technology provides instant access to what’s happening.” He added that the ability to use technology protects the rights and freedoms of citizens in this new digital world.

Upon receiving his award, Congressman Davis addressed the need for competitiveness and globalization. “Opening markets to a global economy makes the once uncompetitive become competitive,” Davis remarked. “Government has a clear role to plan and not hinder technology. Globalization is driving technology and we must continue to compete and improve in order to win. Americans have the tools and the work ethic to compete in the global market and succeed.”

After taking the stage, Ivan Seidenberg, chairman and CEO of Verizon, dedicated his Digital Patriot award to the 250,000 employees of Verizon, who he said help put ideas into action. Seidenberg presented his vision of what faster and more reliable networks will deliver, including creating whole new industries. “We are just at the beginning of this innovation curve,” said Seidenberg. “If we think big enough, technology will help us address some of the most important social challenges of our time. It will transform health care, education, entertainment and the arts.”

For more information on the Fourth Annual Digital Patriots Dinner or the CEA Washington Forum, including news and photos from the events, visit www.CE.org.

About CEA:
The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) is the preeminent trade association promoting growth in the $161 billion U.S. consumer electronics industry. More than 2,200 companies enjoy the benefits of CEA membership, including legislative advocacy, market research, technical training and education, industry promotion and the fostering of business and strategic relationships. CEA also sponsors and manages the International CES – Where Entertainment, Technology and Business Converge. All profits from CES are reinvested into CEA’s industry services. Find CEA online at www.CE.org.