June 12, 2026 (ROCHESTER, NY):  Last evening, Senator Samra G. Brouk (SD-55) inducted Martin Pedraza into the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame at the Children’s Garden on First Street, where he was joined by community leaders, friends, and family to celebrate the dedication of the garden in his honor.

Martin Pedraza was born in Puerto Rico and grew up in the Marketview Heights neighborhood after his family moved to Rochester. He served his country during the Vietnam War and dedicated more than five decades to uplifting his neighbors. His community work spans civic engagement, youth mentorship, and grassroots organizing. Mr. Pedraza has worked on the Inner Loop Community Project, as a Marketview Heights Ambassador, and a leader in youth education through programs like the Lewis Street Center’s “Fairy Godparents” initiative. 

Mr. Pedraza is perhaps best known for his contributions to the First Street Children’s Garden, where he spent over a decade tending to the garden and teaching young people how to grow and prepare healthy food while sharing produce with residents, food banks, and others in need in the Rochester community. 

Senator Samra Brouk (SD-55): “Today, I was honored to celebrate Martin Pedraza’s induction into the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame in recognition of his dedication, commitment, and service to our community. Martin’s life is a powerful example of service, from his time serving our country during the Vietnam War to his decades of leadership and mentorship here in Rochester. It was especially meaningful to celebrate him alongside the dedication of the First Street Children’s Garden in his honor, recognizing fifteen years of teaching young people how to grow healthy food and give back to their community.”

Judy Doulas, President of the Marketview Heights Collective Action Project: "The Marketview Heights Collective Action Project, a resident-driven, all volunteer 501(c)(3) nonprofit, is thrilled to recognize Martin Pedraza for his leadership and contributions to our neighborhood and our city.  His induction into the New York State Veterans Hall of Fame is a fitting way to honor his contributions to our nation."