It’s been 467 days since Hamas brutally attacked Israel, taking Americans and Israelis hostage. This ceasefire deal is a beacon of hope and a critical step towards lasting stability and peace for Israel and the Palestinian people.

I am incredibly grateful to President Biden who worked tirelessly to negotiate this agreement to bring the hostages home, assure Israel’s security, and pave the path for greater humanitarian assistance for the Palestinian people.

Over the last four years, we’ve lost more than one million Americans to drug overdoses. The drug overdose epidemic has touched every corner of our nation—and Monroe County is no exception.

I’m proud to have delivered federal funding to establish the Overdose Fatality Review Board to continue improving substance use disorder treatments and other overdose-related services, as well as pave the way for the design and implementation of practical, evidence-based recommendations to address these issues. I’m grateful to County Executive Bellow for his partnership on this issue. Together, we’re building a community where no one’s life is cut short by an overdose.

It was an honor to deliver remarks on the House floor this week in celebration of the Rochester Museum and Science Center’s newest permanent educational exhibit: Hodinöšyö:nih: Continuity | Innovation | Resilience.

This exhibit features contemporary artists inspired by their own ancestors and traditions and creates a space that helps Hodinöšyö:nih people reconnect with traditional material culture and knowledge. I look forward to touring the exhibit and meeting the visionary behind this inspiring project, curator Jamie Jacobs.

Watch my full remarks on the House floor:

This week, I was elected Vice Ranking Member of the House Committee on Appropriations, one of the most powerful and prestigious committees in the U.S. House of Representatives.

As a member of the House Committee on Appropriations, I have the unique privilege of advocating for funding and resources that will have a direct impact on the Rochester community. I will play a leadership role in ensuring the programs and services people rely on receive the support they need. I look forward to advancing policies that lower costs for families, create opportunities, and invest in the future of our nation.

Valentine’s Day is just under a month away—which means it’s time for my office’s annual Valentines for Veterans program! Help spread some love to the brave veterans across our region by sending valentines or homemade cards into our office by February 12th and join us in showing gratitude for their service, past and present.

How to participate:

• Grab your art supplies or write a note to a local veteran.
• Please mail or drop off your valentines at our office at 255 East Ave, Suite 150, Rochester, NY 14604.
• If you plan to drop off your valentines, please contact Carly Bird at 585-232-4850 Ext. 6, or [email protected] to make an appointment.
• Questions? Please email [email protected].

Please know my office is always here to help. Visit morelle.house.gov to learn more about how we can assist you and your family.

Until next week,

Joe Morelle

New York’s 25th Congressional District