Mayor Bart Peterson declared February 2, 2005 as Jerry J. Dunlevy day in the city of Indianapolis and requested all citizens to join in the observance. Since most citizens probably missed this opportunity, just read this and that will be all that is required. Jerry J. Dunlevy is a graduate of University of Iowa, Indiana University, retired Lieutenant Colonel of the Marine Corps, retired IPS school teacher, lifelong Democratic activist, charter member of the Pike Township Democrat club, ward 32 chair precinct committeeman, Sagamore of the Wabash, husband, father of 6 children, grandfather of 16, great grandfather of 9. Jerry has lived in Pike Township for 40 years and served on the advisory board for 8 years. There he oversaw the selection of 2 fire chiefs and was a major supporter to improve poor relief. The city congratulates Jerry on his retirement and thanks him for his service to the community
Many tributes were read to my father on February 2, 2005. Not only from the mayor, but also Congresswoman Julia Carson, Judge Stinson, Judge Dryer, and Representative Jeb Barden. One of the most touching tributes was read by a fireman who praised Jerry for making certain that the firehouses were budgeted properly to allow them to do their jobs. All elected officials attributed their success to the grassroots efforts of Jerry. When Jerry started there were no elected Democrats in Pike Township. He became the first and many more followed. Now the township board has 1 Republican and 6 Democrats. As an admirer of Howard Dean, whose message is to get involved and take back our country from the politicians who are not listening, I had no idea how much my father had contributed in the grassroots of Pike Township.
I thought about this tribute today as I was driving at 96th and Hague. A traffic light had just gone out and there was the beginning of chaos at this very busy intersection. A policeman arrived shortly and restored order by directing the traffic. In these days of tax cuts and budget crisises, let us not forget those who serve us. Our first responders need to earn a living wage, as do teachers. Let us not forget that Social Security is NOT in crisis and that it is there for all of us to provide a minimum subsistence level in our retirement. Perhaps if people would visit a Social Security office, drive into Center Township neighborhoods, and the Geist area. THEN decide if the rich are truly "burdened" by taxes. Let us not forget that "whatsoever you do to the least of my brethren, that you do unto me." Jesus said that and Jerry J Dunlevy lives it.