Congressman J. J. “Jake” Pickle

100th Anniversary Countdown Paramount Theatre! Congressman J. J. “Jake” Pickle, who served as United States Representative for 32 years, was a critical force in our successful lobbying of the Dept. of Commerce Economic Development Administration in 1977-1978. Those efforts, coupled with Congressman Pickle’s powerful influence in Washington, eventually led to 3 grants totaling $1.85 million. These monies represented 95% of the funds used to restore the Paramount between1978-1980. He was also a monster of a harmonica player! Jake was the embodiment of everything that makes our democracy a shining light to the world.

Thank you Jake Pickle for welcoming me in your Austin office with warmth and friendship on every occasion!