[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 17 (Thursday, February 24, 1994)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: February 24, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
                     TRIBUTE TO RAYMOND W. LaBARGE

                                 ______


                          HON. RICHARD E. NEAL

                            of massachusetts

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, February 24, 1994

  Mr. NEAL of Massachusetts. Mr. Speaker, today I wish to extend my 
recognition and sincere thanks to Raymond W. LaBarge for over 40 years 
of leadership and outstanding civic involvement. Raymond, a lifelong 
resident of Leeds, MA, exemplifies unsurpassed dedication and 
commitment to the needs of the local community. Raymond has exhibited 
exceptional public service both as an elected official and as a citizen 
volunteer.
  Raymond has held various elected offices throughout this 44 years of 
public service, and has left a significant impact on the neighborhoods 
of Leeds, Florence, and the city of Northampton. Raymond served on the 
Northampton City Council from 1983 to 1993 and enthusiastically worked 
to implement improvements in the city and surrounding neighborhoods. He 
was concerned with the upkeep and repair of bridges, streets, and sewer 
lines and worked to maintain the public infrastructure. Raymond 
advocated beautification and worked to provide the residents with open 
space for recreation. Raymond supported sound neighborhood planning, 
and was always receptive to the input of residents.
  Education is another area which benefited greatly from Raymond's 
years of public service. Raymond demonstrated his strong commitment to 
education through direct action on the Northampton School Committee 
from 1977 to 1983. Raymond served as the ward Seven representative for 
6 years, school committee vice-chair for 2 years and as chair of the 
budget committee for 1 year.
  In light of Raymond W. LaBarge's record of action and accomplishments 
in public service and community activities, I believe that he is well 
deserving of public recognition and sincerest gratitude. Through his 
hard work and commitment he has touched the lives of many people and 
positively influenced the city he has unselfishly served over his 
career. Raymond has earned the respect and admiration of the people of 
Leeds, Florence, and the city of Northampton, and I join them in 
saluting this fine citizen.

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