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Proclamation recognizing and commending Mr. Richard Meritzer upon receiving the “Purple Triangle Award” given by the Gertrude Stein Political Club.
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WHEREAS, Mr. Richard Meritzer has placed his stamp of character and hard work throughout this County as a public servant and community leader; in recognition of his dedication and commitment, he is the recipient of the “Purple Triangle Award” given by the Gertrude Stein Political Club; and
WHEREAS, Richard has served in the Pittsburgh Department of City Planning for over twenty years, overseeing the growth of the Residential Permit Parking Program (“sticker parking”) from two to twenty-eight districts; Richard has also served as the planner for the City Bicycle Plan since its inception; and
WHEREAS, Richard has taken a leadership role to increase political activism in the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community and has provided steady assistance to persons with AIDS (PWA's); and
WHEREAS, Richard helped found the Gertrude Stein Political Club twenty-five years ago to provide a voice with direction for the gay and lesbian vote and as a voice for the gay and lesbian community with politicians; Initiatives begun while he was Chair include strategies designed to educate members of the LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) community about the political process; and
WHEREAS, Richard served as a buddy to PWA's and in November 2003, was awarded the “Making a Difference in Someone's Life” award from the Pittsburgh AIDS Taskforce for his outstanding assistance; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Richard Meritzer's community endeavors demonstrate an unparalleled commitment and dedication that commands the respect and admiration of all those for whom he has worked and served;
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Allegheny County Council does hereby commend the Gertrude Stein Political Club for its wisdom in honoring Mr. Richard Meritzer and presenting him the “Purple Triangle Award;” we join his devoted family and friends in praising and recognizing him, sharing great pride in this extraordinary individual.