Honor Ilise Friedman Service

Senate Resolution No. 1000 BY: Senator MARTINS HONORING Ilise Friedman upon the occasion of her designation for special recognition by the Port Jewish Center on June 14, 2025 WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and commend individuals of exceptional character and commitment whose purposeful endeavors serve to enhance the quality of life in their communities and across the great State of New York; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor Ilise Friedman upon the occasion of her designation for special recognition by the Port Jewish Center at its Annual Gala, "Fueling Our Future," on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at Harbor Links in Port Washington, New York; and WHEREAS, The Port Jewish Center is recognizing the dedicated leaders of its committees whose tireless efforts ensure the Center's spiritual, financial, and physical vitality; through their work, these committed congregants uphold the core tenets of Reform Judaism-pursuing justice, fostering community, caring for others, and repairing the world-thus safeguarding the Center's mission and lasting presence for generations to come; and WHEREAS, Ilise Friedman has been a devoted member of the Port Jewish Center for 17 years, during which time she has made remarkable contributions through her leadership, insight, and dedicated service to the congregation; and WHEREAS, As co-chair of the Security Committee, Ilise Friedman has been instrumental in advancing the safety and protection of the Port Jewish Center, a priority of increasing urgency amid a national rise in anti-Semitism; through her tireless work with her co-chair, Roberta Cooperman, the Center successfully secured over $300,000 in competitive State and Federal grants to strengthen and modernize its security infrastructure; and WHEREAS, The implementation of these security enhancements has required exceptional diligence, attention to detail, and persistence; Ilise Friedman has devoted countless hours to ensuring the full and proper execution of these projects, from application to reimbursement, demonstrating extraordinary commitment and care; and WHEREAS, In addition to her security work, Ilise Friedman has served with distinction as a member of the Board of Trustees and the Executive Board of Port Jewish Center, most recently holding the role of First Vice President, where her leadership and strategic guidance have been invaluable to the congregation's continued growth and success; and WHEREAS, Through her steadfast efforts, Ilise Friedman has helped ensure that Port Jewish Center remains a safe, welcoming, and resilient place of worship and community, and her example of devoted volunteerism continues to inspire those around her; and WHEREAS, Rare indeed is the occurrence of such a thoughtful, tenacious, and compassionate individual whose selfless dedication leaves a lasting and positive impact on all those she serves; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to honor Ilise Friedman upon the occasion of her designation for special recognition by the Port Jewish Center, and to extend its sincere appreciation for her exceptional service and meaningful contributions; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to Ilise Friedman.