Christopher Shays: “I thank the gentlelady from D.C. and look forward to the time that she will be a full Member of this Chamber, with all…”

“I thank the gentlelady from D.C. and look forward to the time that she will be a full Member of this Chamber, with all the rights and privileges. Much has been said about the life of Jack Valenti, and rightfully so. It is impossible to sum up his great life and achievements in the short time we have today. He held powerful influence on both coasts in the United States, in Washington, D.C., where he served as a political adviser to President Johnson, and in Hollywood, where he served as chief lobbyist of the Motion Picture Association of America. Valenti negotiated both power centers with dignity, determination and deference. He was born to Houston, Texas, as was pointed out, the grandson of Sicilian immigrants. He excelled in school and finished high school at an early age. Unable to afford college, he worked for a short time in a movie theater, then at an oil company, until he could afford night classes at the University of Houston. His leadership skills, solidified at college, and he was elected student body president. From there, he went on to earn his MBA from Harvard University. His interest in politics began during a chance meeting with President Johnson, who was looking to reach out to fellow Texans while serving in the Senate. At the meeting, Jack Valenti was fascinated by Johnson and chose to work on his next campaign in Texas. They kept in touch, and he was soon employed by Johnson when he became Vice President.”