[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 121 (Friday, September 5, 2003)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E1713] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] IN HONOR OF CARMEN VALENTI ______ HON. ROBERT MENENDEZ of new jersey in the house of representatives Thursday, September 4, 2003 Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Carmen Valenti for his years of dedication and service to the citizens of New Jersey as a tireless housing advocate. He was honored on August 20, 2003 at a luncheon at Don Pepe Restaurant in Newark, New Jersey. As the Director of the New Jersey Office of Public Housing for the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the last twelve years, Mr. Valenti has worked relentlessly to implement public housing programs, and has fought for adequate and affordable housing for New Jersey residents across the state. Mr. Valenti first came to New Jersey in 1973, where he began working with the Somerset Department of Planning. In 1978 he began working as a planner for HUD in the Newark's Community Development Office and served in that capacity for thirteen years until becoming Director in 1991. Originally from Utica, New York, Mr. Valenti earned his bachelor's degree in History and Sociology from Concord College in West Virginia, and his master's degree in Public Administration from Golden Gate University in San Francisco. He also holds a master's degree in Urban Planning from New York University. From 1969 to 1973, Mr. Valenti served in the intelligence division of the United States Air Force. He earned the rank of staff Sergeant and was honorably discharged in 1973. A true public servant, Mr. Valenti's efforts to provide better housing for New Jersey residents have improved the lives of many across the state. Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Carmen Valenti for his tireless advocacy and dedication to serving the public. ____________________