The Port Jervis Raiders, Minisink Valley Warriors and Highland Falls Raiders are not just team names—they are symbols of our history, our values and our unity.

Now, however, these beloved names are under threat of being changed. This is nothing short of ridiculous. That’s why I’m launching the Save Our Names petition—a call to protect our local names and the traditions they represent.

These names have been a part of our communities for decades. They symbolize the strength, resilience and courage of our students and athletes, as well as the communities that support them. The Raider and Warrior names represent pride, determination and the spirit of local competition. These symbols are not offensive; they are a celebration of who we are.

Some may argue these names should be changed to avoid potential offense, but we must ask: who exactly is being harmed by these names? These names have been part of our identity for generations, and for the vast majority of us, they are a point of pride. Changing them to appease a small vocal minority is not only unnecessary, but it would erase the rich history and tradition that connects us all.

This is not just about keeping a name—it’s about preserving a piece of our shared heritage. It’s about standing up for the values and traditions that have shaped our schools and communities. The idea of changing these names is an attempt to erase history, and we cannot let that happen.

That’s why I’m urging everyone who believes in the importance of tradition and community to sign the Save Our Names petition. Let’s show that we stand united in protecting our names and preserving what makes our towns unique. Our children, our athletes and our communities deserve to have their history respected. The Port Jervis Raiders, Minisink Valley Warriors and Highland Falls Raiders are part of who we are, and we must fight to keep it that way.

In addition, I am proud to sponsor a proposal (A.7407) alongside Sen. Bill Weber (R,C-Montebello) to permit public schools to utilize or display their original names and allow schools to embrace local traditions and names without fear of being forced to change them.

Join me in supporting the Save Our Names petition. Together, we can ensure that our names remain a proud symbol of our past and future.