White Sox rename seating area after Tony La Russa in place of esteemed concessions worker

Loretta’s Lounge is no more. “LaRUSSA’s LOUNGE” has replaced it.

A seating area at Guaranteed Rate Field, previously named for Loretta Micele, who worked concessions for the White Sox for 60 years, has been renamed “LaRUSSA’s LOUNGE.” Micele, a Bridgeport native, was hired in 1945 at old Comiskey Park and worked the 2005 World Series at age 85.

She was honored before Game 1 of the World Series, and a plaque her memory is still there.

The change stirred up considerable pushback on social media, which was appreciated by Micele’s family, some of whom still work at the ballpark. Tweeted @312loso, who identified himself as Loretta’s great grandson:

“My family and I appreciated all the love from our White Sox Family! This was a tough pill to swallow.

“I didn’t know my great gram meant as much to all of you as she did to my family! She will forever be the heart of the Southside, we all love you gram.”

The Sox have been talking to the family and are making a replica Loretta’s Lounge sign for them. A team spokesperson said a space that had been named after La Russa for many seasons was relocated in 2020, while Rick Renteria was the team’s manager, to the current lounge area on the 100 level.

“Loretta Micele has always been a treasured member of the White Sox family and a plaque in her honor remains in the space to honor her memory despite the name change,” a spokesperson said. “As we say in the plaque, Loretta was a dedicated concession stand staff member known for her service with a smile attitude.”