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Proclamation honoring and recognizing the Pastor of Emmanuel Lutheran Church, Richard T. Neumann, for his recovery efforts in the aftermath of flooding from Hurricane Ivan, and thanking him for his years of dedicated service to the individuals and families of Etna and surrounding communities.
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WHEREAS, Pastor Richard T. Neumann has ministered services to the congregation of Emmanuel Lutheran Church located in the Etna community for the past 17 years, during which time he has provided joint community services, such as prayer vigils and special services honoring veterans and firemen with other churches in Etna; and
WHEREAS, Pastor Neumann's exemplary public service record includes Board Membership with Etna's Bread of Life Food Pantry, Etna Team for Neighborhood Assistance, Hampton Shaler Etna Ministerial Association, St. Afterschool Program, Global Mission as Board Member and Committee Chairman, with active participation in the Senior Friendship Center, Etna Neighborhood Association, Habitat for Humanity; and
WHEREAS, Pastor Neumann gives tirelessly of his time by providing elementary age school children with interactive discussions, games, help with homework and dinner in the St. Afterschool Program; and
WHEREAS, Pastor Neumann gave an extraordinary amount of time and energy to the residents affected by serious flooding as a result of Hurricane Ivan, in the fall of 2004, bringing stranded people to the Church, providing food and beverages, assisting with clean-up efforts, gathering and distributing donations and supplies, managing the phone lines at the Help Center, listening to victims, coordinating a Toys for Christmas campaign; and
WHEREAS, Pastor Neumann is cherished by the congregation of Emmanuel Lutheran Church, is recognized in the community as a humble leader, goes above and beyond the call of duty, is constantly giving to people in need, is a source of comfort to people, and has helped to heal and restore hope to the residents of Etna and surrounding communities;
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Allegheny County Council does hereby honor and recognize Pastor Richard T. Neumann for his impact on the community and its citizens. Pastor Neumann's selfless ministry and commitment serves as an inspiration to us all, and we extend our sincerest thanks in appreciation for his years of dedication in service to the individuals and families of his community.