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Proclamation thanking The Honorable Sophie Masloff for her many contributions to the City of Pittsburgh.
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WHEREAS, Allegheny County is blessed with individuals dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in our neighborhood and the community as a whole; individuals such as The Honorable Sophie Masloff, who has placed her stamp of character and hard work throughout the community, as both a public servant and strong leader; and
WHEREAS, born and raised in Pittsburgh, Sophie Masloff was a progressive trailblazer, a driving force behind the growth of an inclusive Democratic Party in Western Pennsylvania. Because of her leadership, confidence and community presence, Sophie was elected to Pittsburgh City Council in 1976 and served as the president of council from January 4, 1988 to May 6, 1988; and
WHEREAS, in 1988, Sophie took the reins of the Mayor's office upon the untimely death of Mayor Richard Caliguiri and, later elected to a full term in 1989; she served as Pittsburgh's first female and Jewish Mayor from 1988 to 1994; and
WHEREAS, known for her leadership ability, humor, and common touch, Sophie set the stage for the construction of the city's new baseball and football stadiums, adoption of the Regional Asset District to provide equitable funding for institutions that serve the region such as the stadiums, Convention Center, Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium, the National Aviary, Phipps Conservatory and the city's four regional parks; and
WHEREAS, after stepping down as mayor, she served as a Presidential Elector for Pennsylvania in 1996 and was a delegate to the Democratic National Convention from Pennsylvania in 2000 and 2004;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that Allegheny County Council, on behalf of the citizens of Allegheny County, hereby recognizes The Honorable Sophie Masloff for her contributions to the City of Pittsburgh and to the enhancement of the well-being of the citizens of Pittsburgh and Allegheny County. Ms. Masloff acted always in the best interests of her constituents, and we thank her for her genuine and unwavering public service.