Recognizing Orlando Ortiz

Floor Speech

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Mr. MORELLE. 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.

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