Our parents, Mark “Mendy” Schwartz and Karen Orgen, who are also our role models, have taught us that you cannot always control what happens to you, but you alone are in control of your reaction.

We are proud of you always, but now even more so as we witnessed your reaction to the events that unfolded at the Teaneck Municipal Council Reorganization Meeting which completely blindsided you.

We have heard the lies and hate that have been spread about our parents, people who we know better than anyone. Our parents embody what it means to be a committed American, a proud Jew and a selfless public servant.

Regardless of circumstance, their willingness to be public servants, to serve the community where they chose to raise us, and where they continue to work hard with, and for, people who attack them, enforces the feelings of pride and admiration we have for them.

They give all that they can. They treat everyone, even their detractors, with empathy, compassion, honesty and respect. They do this, regardless of the difficulty it comes with, to show us what putting others ahead of yourself truly means.

We are better people because of the lessons we learn every day from our parents, and we will be great leaders because of them.

We are so proud of all that you do and will continue to do!