Congressman Barney Frank’s statement on the passing of Tom Lopes

WASHINGTON – Congressman Barney Frank today released the following statement about Tom Lopes, former Massachusetts state representative and publisher of the Cape Verdean News.

I was deeply saddened at the news of the death of Tom Lopes, who has played such an important role in the life of the Southeastern Massachusetts community for over 40 years. 

I met Tom in 1972, when we were both freshman members in the Massachusetts House, and we have been colleagues, collaborators and very good friends for many years.  When Congressional redistricting put me back in the New Bedford area twenty years ago, I sought Tom out, and I have been rewarded over these past twenty years with advice, encouragement and friendship from an outstanding man.  The South Coast has lost one of its best citizens and I have lost a good friend.