Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Hispanic American Heritage Month to pay tribute to a distinguished community leader from Rochester, New York, Padron-Morales.

As co-founder of Hipocampo Children's Bookstore, Henry Padron-Morales has created a space that celebrates culture, diversity, and the power of literacy. Rooted in his Puerto Rican heritage, his vision and leadership have fostered a love of reading while amplifying voices that too often go unheard. Through this work, Henry has become a trusted advocate for inclusivity and cultural pride in our community.

Henry's commitment to justice and community leadership began at an early age and has remained a guiding force throughout his life. He helped establish organizations such as the Puerto Rican Youth Development and Resource Center and the Spanish Action Coalition, and he was involved in the first Puerto Rican Festival in Rochester, New York. At the heart of his activism has always been a dedication to ensuring that marginalized voices are heard and that his community has a meaningful seat at the table.

Alongside his advocacy, Henry devoted 34 years to the Rochester City School District, most of them as a beloved kindergarten teacher. In his dual-language classrooms, he cultivated environments where children of all backgrounds could learn together, honor one another's cultures, and see themselves reflected in their education. Through his teaching, Henry inspired countless young people to embrace their identities and take pride in their heritage.

It is with great pride and admiration that I recognize Henry Padron- Morales this Hispanic American Heritage Month. His steadfast dedication to youth empowerment and cultural celebration uplifts Rochester and serves as an enduring inspiration for future generations.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Hispanic American Heritage Month to recognize an outstanding business and community leader from Rochester, New York, Orlando Ortiz.

Serving as President, Orlando Ortiz has played a pivotal role in shaping and leading the Puerto Rican Festival for over 15 years. He has worked tirelessly to honor Puerto Rican heritage and create a welcoming space where thousands of residents and visitors gather each year. Under his leadership, the festival has become more than an event, it is a unifying force that strengthens community bonds and promotes cultural pride.

A native of Cayey, Puerto Rico, Orlando moved to Rochester in 1991 and has carried his heritage with him throughout his life and work. Alongside his leadership of the festival, he has built a distinguished career as Real Estate Investor and Property Manager for RocOn Property Management. In 2019, his impact was recognized when the Rochester Hispanic Business Association named him Hispanic Business Person of the Year.

Orlando's commitment to service extends well beyond his professional accomplishments. In 2020, he was honored with the Minett Professorship at the Rochester Institute of Technology, recognizing his leadership and dedication to education and community engagement. The year before, he and his wife, Denishea, were named the NextGen Rochester Young Philanthropists of the Year, a testament to their shared commitment to giving back. Across these roles and recognitions, Orlando has exemplified a steadfast devotion to advancing our community and preserving cultural heritage.

It is with great pride and admiration that I recognize Orlando Ortiz during Hispanic American Heritage Month. His professional achievements and civic service have left a lasting mark on both the Hispanic community and the Greater Rochester region.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Hispanic American Heritage Month to honor an extraordinary advocate from Rochester, New York, Daisy Rivera-Algarin.

As a founding member of Latinas Unidas, Daisy Rivera-Algarin has long recognized the vital importance of representation, equity, and cultural pride in community leadership. When she saw that Latina voices were underrepresented in positions of influence, she took bold action, bringing together a group of Latina activists to chart a new path forward by creating Latinas Unidas. Today, the organization stands as a powerful testament to her vision of uplifting Latina women, connecting them with the tools and opportunities needed to thrive, and celebrating the enduring richness of their cultural heritage.

Daisy's leadership was also instrumental in creating La Marketa, serving as a vibrant marketplace and community gathering space where food, art, and culture unite. More than just a place to shop, La Marketa serves as a beacon of Rochester's Hispanic community, honoring traditions and offering a cultural home where generations can come together to celebrate their shared identity. It is a living legacy of Daisy's belief that culture is not only to be preserved but to be celebrated openly and proudly.

For nearly 25 years, Daisy carried this same commitment into public service through her work with Rochester city government. She began as a Business Development Associate and rose to become Director of Neighborhood Service Centers, where she worked tirelessly to ensure that residents had both a voice and a champion in City Hall. In 2024, her leadership and dedication were recognized with the NYS Women of Distinction Award. Across every role, Daisy combined professional expertise with a cultural perspective and compassion deeply rooted in her heritage.

It is a privilege to recognize Daisy Rivera-Algarin during Hispanic American Heritage Month. Her dedication to public service has made an immeasurable impact on our community and will continue to inspire future generations.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Hispanic American Heritage Month to recognize an outstanding leader from Rochester, New York, Lucia Colindres.

Originally from El Salvador, Lucia Colindres came to the United States in 1989, bringing with her a spirit of resilience and service that has defined her life's work. Since that time, she has established herself as a beacon of light in Rochester, devoting her career to championing equity and addressing the most pressing needs of the Latino community.

As Chief Program Officer of the Ibero-American Action League, Lucia leads with vision and determination, overseeing vital health initiatives that strengthen families across the region by addressing social determinants such as access to care, nutrition, and housing. Previously, in senior leadership at Rochester Regional Health, she spearheaded innovative pro-Medicaid programs that prioritized prevention and compassion by tackling the root causes of health crises. Through her leadership, Lucia has ensured that Latino families in Rochester are not only supported in times of need but also empowered to build healthier and more fulfilling lives.

Lucia's influence extends beyond institutions into the broader community. As a founding member of the Community Health Workers Association of Rochester, she has worked tirelessly to advance and professionalize a workforce that is indispensable to the well-being of families. Through every role she has held, Lucia Colindres has exemplified what it means to lead with both vision and heart by strengthening Rochester, uplifting families, and building a legacy of service that will endure for generations.

It is an honor to recognize Lucia Colindres during Hispanic American Heritage Month. Her leadership has strengthened our community, advanced equity, and created opportunities that will endure for generations.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Hispanic American Heritage Month to recognize an extraordinary artist, educator, and community leader from Rochester, New York, Jason Barber.

As a Cuban-American artist and educator, Jason Barber has devoted his creative journey to exploring the intersection of memory and place, weaving together Rochester's histories with the lived experiences of its people. His work reflects on how communities preserve memory, identity, and family history, often drawing inspiration from our city's legacy as the birthplace of modern photography through Kodak Park.

Beyond his artistic practice, Jason manages the International Plaza, a vibrant cultural and economic hub that celebrates the diversity of Rochester, New York. Under his leadership, the Plaza has grown into a welcoming space where small businesses, artists, and community members share food and traditions from around the world. His guidance has uplifted local entrepreneurs while fostering stronger connections across the region.

Jason's heritage and perspective deeply inform his approach to both art and education. With more than a decade of experience in the arts and nonprofit sectors, he has worked tirelessly to bridge culture and community. His career includes leadership roles as a Creative Consultant and Gallery Director with organizations such as the Rochester Brainery, Oxford Gallery, Memorial Art Gallery, and The Yards Art Collective. Through these roles, Jason has fostered collaborations across disciplines, enriching Rochester's cultural fabric and ensuring that creativity remains a force for connection and inclusion.

It is with great pride and admiration that I recognize Jason Barber this Hispanic American Heritage Month. His advocacy continues to uplift and enrich our community, leaving a lasting impact for generations to come.

Mr. Speaker, I thank my good friend, the gentleman from Massachusetts, the ranking member of the Rules Committee, for yielding.

Mr. Speaker, as we reach the apparent conclusion of this absurd exercise, it is worth asking: What is the purpose of this bill? This bill will strip away health insurance from nearly 17 million people, devastating communities like mine in Rochester, New York. This bill will recklessly eliminate food assistance for nearly 3 million Americans, including nearly a million senior citizens. This bill will explode the deficit by $3.3 trillion.

For what?

Well, Mr. Speaker, sometimes the simplest explanation is closest to the truth. We all saw the gaggle of billionaires sitting behind Donald Trump on Inauguration Day earlier this year. The driving force behind this entire legislative effort has been to grant handouts to those same billionaires and special interests all at the expense of hardworking families.

Mr. Speaker, I hope my colleagues on the other side of the aisle will stop and think again before voting for the worst piece of legislation in generations. But I know one thing for certain, House Democrats will never stop fighting for American families.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Caribbean American Heritage Month to pay tribute to a distinguished community leader from Rochester, New York: Jerome H. Underwood.

As Chief Executive Officer of Action for a Better Community and a founding member of the Greater Rochester Black Agenda Group, Jerome Underwood has led with clarity, purpose, and unwavering integrity. Throughout his years of dedicated service, he has been a moral compass and unifying force in our community, championing social justice and equity.

Born on the Caribbean island of Antigua, Jerome brought with him to the United States a deep-rooted sense of community and justice. In Rochester, he has emerged as a tireless advocate for racial equity and economic justice, working to expose and dismantle the structural racism that continues to harm communities of color.

Jerome's leadership extends far beyond boardrooms and policy tables. He is also a powerful role model for our youth. Merging his love of soccer with a deep passion for mentorship and ``peaceful'' demeanor, he has served as Director of Coaching for the River Flow Soccer Club and President of the Flower City Soccer League.

It is with great pride and admiration that I recognize Jerome H. Underwood this Caribbean American Heritage Month. His unwavering commitment to equity, youth empowerment, and community transformation continues to uplift our community here in Rochester and beyond.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Caribbean American Heritage Month to recognize a trailblazing leader and advocate from Rochester, New York: Norma Thom.

Born in Trinidad and Tobago, Norma brought to the United States a deep commitment to culture, education, and service. After arriving in Rochester, she transitioned from her role as a schoolteacher to become a prominent voice for the Caribbean American community.

Norma is a founding member of The Rochester West Indian Festival Organization, a nonprofit that has celebrated and promoted Caribbean heritage in Rochester for over 42 years. Through her leadership, she has fostered unity, cultural pride, and greater visibility for Caribbean Americans across our region.

Beyond her community advocacy, Norma also built a distinguished professional career. She spent 29 years at Eastman Kodak Company, where she worked in the supply chain and logistics department. She retired in 2003, leaving behind a legacy of excellence in both her workplace and her community.

It is an honor to recognize Norma Thom during Caribbean American Heritage Month. Her enduring legacy continues to uplift Rochester and inspire future generations.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Caribbean American Heritage Month to recognize an exceptional public servant from Rochester, New York: Marlene Henry.

As the owner of PeppaPot Catering, Marlene Henry is far more than a business owner--she is a quiet but powerful force for good in our community. Time and again, she has offered her culinary talents in service of others, often at her own expense. Whether providing food at no cost to those in need or offering discounted services for community events, Marlene exemplifies the spirit of generosity that defines Caribbean American heritage.

Her commitment to service extends well beyond the kitchen. Marlene is among the first to volunteer for community events, including Caribbean American Heritage Month celebrations, Mother's Day initiatives, and cultural festivals. She approaches every act of service with humility, never seeking recognition, but always delivering excellence.

Marlene's impact is also felt through her efforts to pass on cultural traditions to the next generation. She devotes time to teaching young people how to prepare and appreciate authentic Caribbean dishes, ensuring that the flavors, stories, and values of our shared heritage endure.

It is my distinct honor to recognize Marlene Henry this Caribbean American Heritage Month. Her deep compassion, cultural pride, and unwavering service enrich our community and inspire us all.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Caribbean American Heritage Month to recognize an extraordinary leader from the Rochester community: Roosevelt Mareus.

As Executive Director and Dean of the Rochester Educational Opportunity Center, or REOC, Roosevelt Mareus has led with vision, integrity, and a deep commitment to uplifting others. Under his leadership, REOC has continued its vital mission of empowering individuals, helping countless students break the cycle of poverty and reach their utmost potential.

Born in Haiti, Roosevelt's journey is one of remarkable resilience and transformation. As a young man overcoming adversity, he found direction and opportunity through the very institution he would one day lead. Beginning his career at REOC as a security guard, he steadily rose through the ranks to become Executive Director. His life story is a testament to his perseverance and dedication.

Roosevelt's passion for service extends far beyond Rochester. Deeply connected to his Haitian roots, he founded Elevate Haiti Ministries, an organization dedicated to building an orphanage and school in Haiti. Over the past decade, Elevate Haiti has offered critical education and housing for young boys.

During Caribbean American Heritage Month, it is my great privilege to recognize Roosevelt Mareus. His leadership and service continues to inspire and uplift communities both here at home and abroad.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Caribbean American Heritage Month to recognize an exceptional public servant from Rochester, New York: Rose Bonnick.

Born in Jamaica, Rose is a proud member of the Caribbean American community and a tireless advocate for equity and opportunity. As a Monroe County Legislator and Community Affairs Coordinator for New York State Senator Jeremy Cooney, she has dedicated her career to amplifying underrepresented voices and advancing policies that create a lasting impact. Whether championing local initiatives or supporting statewide policy efforts, she brings passion and dedication to every role she undertakes.

Rose is known for her unwavering commitment to uplifting her constituents, addressing systemic disparities, and building a stronger, more inclusive Rochester. She embodies the very essence of public service, leading with empathy and an unshakable belief in the power of community.

Long before she held public office, Rose was deeply embedded in the Rochester community through her longstanding work helping Jamaican immigrants navigate complex landscapes of services and programs. She became affectionately known among family and friends as a ``community connector''--someone with a unique ability to guide others through the hoops and ladders of life. Her knowledge of local systems and her natural inclination to serve positioned her as a trusted resource and advocate, particularly for new arrivals seeking stability and opportunity.

She consistently creates spaces for engagement, education, and empowerment, fostering the next generation of civic leaders. Her vision of a more just and equitable society is not just spoken--it is actively pursued through her daily work and presence in the community.

This Caribbean American Heritage Month, it is with deep respect and admiration that I recognize Rose Bonnick. Her advocacy continues to uplift and enrich our community, leaving a lasting impact for generations to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an extraordinary leader, visionary, educator, and friend, David C. Munson, Jr., on his retirement after 8 transformative years as president of the Rochester Institute of Technology and over four decades in higher education.

Under President Munson's leadership, RIT soared into the top 100 national universities, doubled global learning opportunities, expanded Ph.D. programs, and guided over $500 million in capital projects that have reimagined the student experience. His visionary work has positioned RIT as a nexus of technology, design, and global impact.

Dr. Munson's legacy will continue to inspire generations at RIT. I am grateful for his friendship, unwavering commitment to creativity, and belief in the limitless potential of students and scholars alike.

Mr. Speaker, I wish him and his wife, Nancy, all the best in his well-earned retirement.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Jewish American Heritage Month to recognize an extraordinary individual from Rochester, NY, whose commitment to service and leadership continues to uplift our Jewish community: Nathan (Nick) Robfogel.

Nick Robfogel has long exemplified civic responsibility, compassion, and tireless devotion to the betterment of our region. As Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Max and Marian Farash Foundation, he has guided philanthropic efforts that have empowered countless individuals and organizations across Rochester. Prior to his retirement, Nick served as a distinguished partner at Harter Secrest & Emery, where he combined his legal acumen with a deep-seated sense of justice.

A dedicated member of the Board of Governors for the Jewish Federation, Nick has played a pivotal role in strengthening Jewish life and fostering a culture of generosity and community-mindedness. His decades of service and thoughtful leadership have made him an indispensable figure in our region.

During Jewish American Heritage Month, it is my great privilege to recognize Nick Robfogel. His legacy of philanthropy, wisdom, and community-building stands as an inspiration to us all.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Jewish American Heritage Month to pay tribute to a remarkable spiritual leader and community advocate from Rochester, NY: Rabbi Alan Katz.

Rabbi Katz served with grace and wisdom as the rabbi of Temple Sinai from 1986 to 2020, and now holds the distinguished title of Rabbi Emeritus. Throughout his decades of service, Rabbi Katz has been a moral compass and unifying force in our community, fostering interfaith dialogue, social justice, and compassion.

He has held leadership roles with numerous organizations including the Rochester Board of Rabbis, Jewish Community Federation, the Levine Center to End Hate, and the Commission of Christian-Jewish Relations. His commitment to promoting peace and understanding transcends borders, exemplified by his work with the Partnership Together program connecting Rochester and Modi'in, Israel, where he served as co-chair for four years.

In 1995, Rabbi Katz was awarded the State of Israel Peace Award, a fitting recognition of

his life's work. Today, he continues his service through the National Rabbinic Council of ARZA and World Union for Progressive Judaism, guiding the global Reform Jewish movement.

It is with profound respect and admiration that I recognize Rabbi Alan Katz this Jewish American Heritage Month. His legacy of leadership, advocacy, and deep spiritual care continues to bless our community and beyond.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Jewish American Heritage Month to recognize a remarkable leader and educator in our Rochester Jewish community: Monica Gurell.

Monica Gurell serves as the President of Temple B'rith Kodesh, where she has led with passion, humility, and inclusiveness. She began her journey at TBK by nurturing young minds--teaching a class of four-year- olds--and later, with her husband Dan, advising the youth group for five years. Her sustained commitment and deep sense of purpose led her to the board in 2010 and eventually to her current leadership role.

A veteran teacher in the Rochester City School District, Monica has also volunteered extensively throughout the Jewish community, including service on the board of Jewish Family Services. Her experience in the Wexner Heritage Program--a prestigious two-year leadership initiative-- helped her forge deeper bonds across our city and champion unity across diverse Jewish organizations.

It is an honor to recognize Monica Gurell during Jewish American Heritage Month. Her unwavering dedication to faith, education, and community has enriched the lives of countless others and continues to serve as a beacon of strength.