By Jennifer L. Warren
NEWBURGH – “Any time a citizen decides to step in and serve for a public office it’s a tall task.”
City of Newburgh Mayor, Torrence Harvey, emphatically declared these words to the standing room only crowd inside the Washington Street Activities Center Sunday afternoon.
Here, at the City of Newburgh Swearing In Ceremony, six individuals were about to officially take on the lofty and very critical work, along with profound sacrifice, that accompanies being a local politician. While three were marking their second terms with reelections, three others were entering the positions for the first time. All were embarking on transformative, leadership journeys, laden with importance, purpose, and hope.
“This is a very, very significant occasion for those who have been elected again as well as newly elected,” said Harvey. “It is a new year, with a new vision and a new day.”
Both participated in the Oath of Office Swearing In at the City of Newburgh’s Activity Center Sunday afternoon.
The Celebration commenced with deep gratitude for outgoing members: Orange County Legislative Representative of Ward 6, Kevindaryan Lujan as well as City Councilmembers: Bob Sklarz of Ward 3 and Patty Sofokles of Ward 4. Each was presented with a certificate as well as honored for their dedicated efforts and passion aimed at moving the City of Newburgh forward.
It’s an upward momentum that those being sworn in to service are determined to continue. Re-elected, Orange County Legislative Representative of District 6, Leader Genesis Ramos, expressed a renewed energy, deeply appreciative of- propelled by the faith her voters put in her, allowing her to continue the imperative work that remains.
“It’s an honor to be sworn in this afternoon,” said Ramos. “Clearly, these are trying times, and it’s politics at the local level that is going to make a difference.” The first Latin American woman to earn the esteemed title of her position continued, “I grew up here, so this is something I take to heart; at the end of the day, we are in service to you, and I now have a renewed sense of responsibility and look forward to doing the work.”
Ramos will be immersed in those arduous efforts alongside first time Orange County Legislative Representative of District 6, Gabrielle Hill, who earned the spot on her second run for office.
“Public service is not easy, and we can’t do it alone; we need you to show up and demand what is best,” said the visibly touched Hill, who alluded to her father and his insistence on instilling precious pride and purpose in her, leading her to this present, treasured place. “We need all hands on deck right now.”
Those helping hands will also come from City Councilmembers, four of whom were sworn in Sunday. Giselle Martinez involved in politics since a teenager, and reelected to another term, is more energized than ever to continue fighting for the City she loves: Newburgh.
“I have dedicated my entire youth to this City because I love it, and I continue to fight for you,” said Martinez, who represents Ward 1. “I will fiercely fight for the working class and the underserved; I accept this position with humility and honor.”
Also reelected to another term and taking her second oath as a Councilwoman was Ward 2 Councilmember, Ramona Monteverde.
“Don’t get discouraged,” advised Monteverde referencing the challenging state of affairs at the National level of politics. “Now is the time we must push back, stay informed, show up and resist.”
Ronald Zorrilla, representing Ward 4, enters the position for the first time, something he is very eager to embark upon. Asking people in attendance what they want to see in leadership-with resounding replies of: creativity, transparency, and empathy- Zorrilla revealed his desire to directly involve his constituents in the process.
“I’m so proud to call Newburgh my home,” said the former New York City resident. “I’m just so excited to serve you.”
Another NYC native and also first time City of Newburgh Councilmember, Tamika Stewart, cited her love for the place she now calls home and is already hard at work fighting for in every way she can.
“I am not from here, but I am for here,” exclaimed Ward 3 representative, Stewart, who has been advocating for housing “human” rights. “I did not come here for politics or power; leadership is not about being seen but listening to you.” She continued. “I ran because too many people feel their voices are silenced and they aren’t seen; that now all ends with me, as I will fight for dignity and safety and that no one has to beg to be treated fairly. Stewart, who insisted it takes discomfort to create change, concluded, “I will not play small…..at all.”
