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.