Senator Serrano's Community Report

Dear Neighbor,

I hope you are having a wonderful, and safe summer. As we are in the midst of a dangerous heatwave, it is important that we take proper precautions, seek air conditioning, stay hydrated, and check on vulnerable neighbors. In this report, I have included some information and tips on how to stay cool!

I am happy to share that we have wrapped up another successful legislative session in Albany. In this newsletter, you will read about legislative and budget wins that I fought for this session. It is my privilege to represent all of you in Albany, and I am grateful for all your feedback and insights as we crafted a budget that reflected the needs of the people.

As always, my staff and I are here to help in any way that we can. Please feel free to contact us at 212-828-5829, visit our District Office, or stop by to speak with us at our weekly constituent hours.

I look forward to continuing to see you all throughout our community!

Yours in progress,

Senator José M. Serrano

Chair of the Majority Conference

Events and Happenings

Veterans Hall of Fame Ceremony

Senator Serrano was proud to honor Rafael Rodriguez Jr. at the 2026 Veterans Hall of Fame induction ceremony in Albany.

Mr. Rodriguez, a resident of the South Bronx, served in the US Army Reserves. Throughout his years of service, he attained the rank of Sergeant E5. Mr. Rodriquez served three tours of duty and several humanitarian missions overseas.

Thank you, Mr. Rodriguez, for your service to our country!

Stanley Isaacs Community Day

Senator Serrano was happy to join Stanley Isaacs residents and Yorkville community members for the Stanley Isaacs Community Day. The event was a wonderful opportunity for community members to enjoy good food, carnival games, and more.

Many thanks to Goddard Riverside, the Isaacs Center, and all who helped to make this enjoyable event possible.

Opening Remarks at NY Phil Concerts in the Parks Series

Senator Serrano was happy to join the New York Philharmonic to provide opening remarks at their free Concerts in the Parks series in Central Park. Conducted by Elim Chan, the performance welcomed thousands of New Yorkers and visitors to experience this special free performance on the Great Lawn.

Senator Serrano is proud to have secured $500,000 in operating aid for the New York Philharmonic in the SFY 2026–2027 New York State Budget to support their education and community programming. This investment will help expand access to arts education for audiences of all ages.

Destination Tomorrow Legislative Breakfast

Senator Serrano was proud to join Destination Tomorrow’s Legislative Breakfast in support of one of the nation’s leading LGBTQIA+ organizations serving the Bronx and beyond. During the event, he presented Destination Tomorrow with a check for $20,000 to help expand its vital community programs and services.

Destination Tomorrow provides critical resources, including behavioral health services, a food pantry, workforce development, and support for individuals living with HIV.

116th Street Festival

Senator Serrano was delighted to join thousands of participants for the 41st Annual 116th Street Festival, one of East Harlem’s most cherished community traditions celebrating Puerto Rican culture, heritage, and neighborhood pride.

During the celebration, Senator Serrano presented certificates of recognition to Nick Lugo, President of Abrazos Fraternal Inc., and David Acosta and Robert Acosta, founders of the 116th Street Festival, honoring their many years of dedication to preserving this beloved El Barrio tradition. Senator Serrano extends his gratitude to the organizers, performers, volunteers, and community members whose commitment continues to make the festival a vibrant celebration of Puerto Rican culture.

KR3TS Proclamation and Check Presentation

Senator Serrano was honored to present a $20,000 check to Keep Rising to the Top Dance Company (KR3TS) and a Senate proclamation to their founder, Violeta Galagarza, in recognition of the organization’s outstanding commitment to empowering young people through dance, mentorship, and leadership development.

Through arts education and youth programming, KR3TS provides young people with opportunities to build confidence, develop leadership skills, and express themselves through the performing arts. Senator Serrano is proud to support organizations like KR3TS that create meaningful opportunities for youth and strengthen our communities through the arts.

2026 National Puerto Rican Day Parade

Senator Serrano was happy to march in the 2026 National Puerto Rican Day Parade alongside community members, and thousands of New Yorkers celebrating Puerto Rican culture, history, and the many contributions of the Puerto Rican community.

The annual parade serves as a vibrant celebration of heritage, unity, and pride. Senator Serrano was proud to celebrate with constituents and neighbors and is grateful to everyone who helped make this year’s parade a memorable and meaningful day for New York City.

Opening Remarks for the Public Theater’s Mobile Unit Performance

Senator Serrano was pleased to welcome The Public Theater’s Mobile Unit to St. Mary’s Park for a free community performance of As You Like It, bringing live theater directly to residents of the South Bronx.

Thanks to state funding secured by Senator Serrano, The Public Theater continues expanding access to the arts by offering free performances in neighborhoods across the 29th Senate District. Senator Serrano appreciates The Public Theater’s ongoing commitment to making arts and culture accessible to communities throughout New York City.

The Point CDC’s Fish Parade & Arts Festival

Senator Serrano was happy to participate in The Point Community Development Corporation’s annual Fish Parade and Arts Festival, a colorful community tradition celebrating the Bronx River, environmental stewardship, and neighborhood creativity. The Point continues to expand its arts, cultural, and youth programming for residents throughout the South Bronx; Senator Serrano was happy to support their programming with funding in this year's state budget.

The event brought together residents, artists, and families for a day of performances, art, and environmental education. Senator Serrano thanks The Point CDC for its continued commitment to fostering creativity, promoting environmental stewardship, and creating opportunities for South Bronx residents through its arts and community programs.

New York State Senate
Summer Reading Program

Summer is the perfect time for children to explore new worlds, spark their imaginations, and strengthen their reading skills. The New York State Senate is proud to support the 2026 summer reading program, themed “Unearth A Story".

This free program encourages children of all ages to read for fun and discovery all summer long.

How It Works:
Participating students can submit their completed reading form by August 21, 2026. Students will receive an official summer reading certificate recognizing their dedication and achievement.

Why Participate?
· Supports families and educators in promoting literacy at home
· Helps prevent the “summer slide” and keeps students engaged
· Encourages a lifelong love of books and learning
· Offers a fun and meaningful way to spend summer break

Create a Submission

Heat Wave Resources

FREE Upcoming Community Events

Albany Office:
418 State Capitol
Albany, NY 12247
(518) 455-2795

District Office:
335 E 100th St.
New York, NY 10029
(212) 828-5829

Web

Instagram

Youtube