[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 142 (Saturday, October 10, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2026]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  IN HONOR OF LOUIS ANTHONY TRANGHESE

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. RICHARD E. NEAL

                            of massachusetts

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 9, 1998

  Mr. NEAL of Massachusetts. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to invite my 
colleagues to join me in recognizing my friend, Louis Anthony 
Tranghese, who is retiring after 49 years with the Construction and 
General Laborers' Local Union No. 999 in Springfield, Massachusetts. A 
leader in his profession, a devoted family man, a friend to many Louis 
has served his community with pride and distinction. On Friday, October 
16, 1998, a testimonial dinner will be held in his honor. It is a 
tribute long overdue.
  Born and raised in the historic South End of Springfield, Louis 
Tranghese learned at an early age the importance of organized labor in 
our society. At age 14, he watched as his father Carlo, Arthur Coia and 
James Merloni played active roles in a newspaper strike. It was a 
defining moment, and from that point Louis knew that he wanted to 
dedicate his life to the concerns of working men and women.
  In 1948, the graduated from Technical High School and soon joined 
Local Union 999. It was the beginning of a remarkable career that would 
last a half-century. From his humble start as a waterboy to Business 
Manager, a position which he held for over twenty years, Louis 
Tranghese became a leader in an organization he cared deeply about. He 
was always proud to call himself a laborer.
  While Louis was busy with his professional career, he also found time 
to start a family. In 1956, he married the former Judie Monette, his 
wife and partner of nearly 40 years. The couple had four daughters: 
Carla, Gina, Lisa and Trisha who today own and operate the Dance 
Connection in East Longmeadow, Massachusetts. The Tranghese's are 
equally proud of their six grandsons and three granddaughters.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask all the Members of the United States House of 
Representatives to join me in offering our sincere gratitude to Louis 
Tranghese. His service, dedication and commitment to the Local Union 
No. 999 has been extraordinary. He has been a reflection of what is 
best about America. As he prepares to retire, let us wish him health, 
happiness and nothing but the best in the years ahead.

                          ____________________