Joseph D. Morelle

Poll Worker Tax Cut Act

in committee

Expressing support for the designation of March 3, 2026, as "National Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Day".

in committee

Veteran Caregiver Reeducation, Reemployment, and Retirement Act

in committee

“Mr. MORELLE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Jewish American Heritage Month to recognize an exceptional arts educator, theater producer, and community leader from Rochester, New York: Freyda Schneider. Freyda Schneider is best known as the founder and longtime director of TYKEs (Theatre Young Kids Enjoy), the children's theater program at the Louis S. Wolk Jewish Community Center of Greater Rochester. A lifelong member of the Rochester JCC community, she co-founded TYKEs in 2004 with a vision of providing high-quality theatrical experiences that foster creativity, literacy, empathy, and self-expression among children and families. Under her leadership, TYKEs grew into one of the region's leading children's theater organizations, offering professional productions, school programs, summer camps, and youth workshops that have enriched the lives of countless young people across the Rochester community. Through her work as a producer, educator, and collaborator on original theatrical works, Freyda has consistently demonstrated the power of the arts to bring people together and strengthen community bonds. Her contributions have also helped preserve and elevate Jewish storytelling and cultural education. As co-producer of SURVIVORS, a theatrical production sharing the testimonies of Holocaust survivors in the Rochester community, she helped ensure that these important stories continue to educate and inspire future generations. Freyda Schneider's career reflects a deep and enduring commitment to education, creativity, and Jewish communal life. During Jewish American Heritage Month, it is especially fitting that we honor individuals who have gone above and beyond to strengthen our communities and preserve shared cultural heritage. I am proud to recognize her and extend my deepest gratitude for her continued service. ____________________”

2026-05-21 · Education

“Mr. MORELLE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Jewish American Heritage Month to recognize two outstanding community leaders and preservers of Rochester's Jewish culinary heritage: Jason and Alex Rheinwald. Jason and Alex Rheinwald are the co-owners of Fox's Deli, a nearly century-old Rochester institution that has long served as a cornerstone of the region's Jewish community and cultural life. After taking over the deli several years ago, the brothers committed themselves to preserving its traditional Jewish deli identity while thoughtfully modernizing and expanding the business for a new generation. Under their leadership, Fox's Deli has continued to serve as a gathering place for Rochester families and a living connection to the city's historic Jewish community. Their stewardship of this important institution earned Fox's recognition by New York State's Historic Business Preservation Registry, reflecting both the deli's cultural significance and the Rheinwald brothers' dedication to preserving its legacy. In recent years, Jason and Alex further expanded Rochester's Jewish culinary traditions through the opening of The Bagel Shop By Fox's on Park Avenue, bringing traditional hand-rolled New York-style bagels and Jewish deli culture to new audiences while maintaining the quality and sense of community that define Fox's. Jason and Alex Rheinwald's work reflects a deep and enduring commitment to preserving Rochester's Jewish heritage, supporting local business, and strengthening community connections. During Jewish American Heritage Month, it is especially fitting that we honor individuals who have gone above and beyond to preserve shared cultural traditions and enrich our communities. I am proud to recognize them and extend my deepest gratitude for their continued service. ____________________”

2026-05-21 · Government Reform

“Mr. MORELLE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Jewish American Heritage Month to recognize a dedicated community leader and volunteer from Rochester, New York: Herb Skerker. For decades, Herb Skerker has been a respected and active leader within Rochester's Jewish community through his longstanding involvement with Temple B'rith Kodesh, one of the region's historic Reform congregations. Through his service and leadership, he has helped strengthen Jewish communal life in Rochester across generations, supporting the synagogue's religious, cultural, and philanthropic initiatives. Herb's commitment to Jewish education, congregational leadership, and preserving the traditions of Rochester's Jewish institutions has earned him the admiration and gratitude of countless members of the community. In addition to his work with Temple B'rith Kodesh, he has supported broader charitable and civic efforts that reflect his deep dedication to service and community engagement. Widely regarded as a thoughtful and devoted presence within Rochester Jewish life, Herb has consistently contributed his time, leadership, and energy to ensuring the continued vitality of the local Jewish community. His example demonstrates the profound impact that dedicated volunteerism and faithful service can have on generations of families and congregants. Herb Skerker's service reflects a deep and enduring commitment to faith, leadership, and Jewish communal life. During Jewish American Heritage Month, it is especially fitting that we honor individuals who have gone above and beyond to strengthen our communities and preserve shared cultural heritage. I am proud to recognize him and extend my deepest gratitude for his continued service. ____________________”

2026-05-21 · Civil Rights