Thursday, October 1, 2026
For most first graders, a trip to Albany might mean sightseeing and a long bus ride. But for 7-year-old Thomas Ortiz Jr., of Inwood, it meant standing on the floor of the New York State Senate as lawmakers recognized him for becoming a published author.
State Sen. Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick honored Thomas, a student at Lawrence Primary School, for his children’s book, “Thomas Makes a Promise,” which was inspired by his own experience starting at a new school and learning how to make friends.
Joined by his parents, Angela and Thomas Ortiz Sr., the young author traveled to Albany for what his family described as an unforgettable day filled with emotion, excitement and pride on May 4.
“At just 7 years old, with the support of his family, Thomas Ortiz has accomplished something truly remarkable,” Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick said. “Inspired by his own experience starting at a new school, Thomas turned a personal challenge into a story that will help other children build confidence and make new friends.”
The senator said she first became aware of Thomas after reading an article about his accomplishment and was immediately impressed by both his age and the message behind the book.
“When I saw that article, I was super impressed that a 6-year-old was involved in the publishing of a book,” Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick said. “I reached out to him and his mom, and I invited him to Albany because this is exactly the kind of story we need more of today.”
She said fellow senators were equally amazed by Thomas’s achievement.
“Other senators said to me, ‘He’s more accomplished than we are because I’m not published,’” she said with a laugh. “But what stood out most was his message — make friends wherever you go, be kind, say hello to people. In today’s world, where there’s so much negativity, this is positive. For someone so young to spread joy and encouragement, it was truly my honor to recognize him.”
During the Senate session, Thomas sat in the chamber alongside his parents as Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick introduced him and highlighted his accomplishment before fellow lawmakers.
Thomas later admitted that the experience was both thrilling and intimidating.
“I felt excited and scared,” he said.
Still, the young author quickly embraced the adventure. His favorite stops included the New York State Museum, where he enjoyed seeing the whale exhibit, and touring the Capitol’s famous Million Dollar Staircase.
“It looks like the staircase in Harry Potter,” Thomas said.
He also enjoyed seeing soldiers visiting Albany for Fort Drum Day and spending time with his family exploring the city. The family visited Empire State Plaza and The Egg before making a stop for mini golf and games at Dave & Buster’s.
His mother, Angela, said the recognition represented the culmination of a journey she and her son created together.
“As a mother and an author, it was such a proud and emotional moment to watch my child receive such meaningful recognition for his book,” she said. “Just last year, Thomas and I were creating this story together day by day — picking the characters, choosing the scenes, deciding where Thomas wanted the story to go and even how he wanted it to end.”
Angela said watching their idea evolve into a published book that other children can enjoy has been “an unforgettable experience.”
“When we arrived at the Capitol, we were overwhelmed with emotion,” she said. “I was nervous at first, but the moment we walked through the doors and were greeted with such kindness and appreciation for Thomas and his book, we immediately felt welcomed and comfortable.”
She described the Capitol building itself as breathtaking and said the family was moved by the history and architecture throughout the complex.
“The architecture throughout the Capitol was absolutely breathtaking both inside and out,” she said. “The history within those walls is truly incredible.”
She also praised staff members David Poleto and Tim Bergerson for warmly welcoming the family and personally guiding Thomas through the Capitol.
“The time they took to personally give Thomas a tour was incredibly heartwarming,” she said.
According to Angela, one of the most memorable moments came when the family entered the Senate chamber and witnessed a live legislative session.
“Watching and listening to so many important discussions taking place firsthand was unforgettable,” she said. “We are beyond grateful to have shared this experience together as a family.”
Kristen Panzarella, Lawrence Primary School principal, said Thomas’s accomplishment reflects the supportive environment fostered within the school community.
“We are incredibly proud of Thomas Ortiz for receiving this honor from Senator Patricia Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick in Albany,” Panzarella wrote in a statement. “At our school, we strive to foster an environment where every student feels empowered to reach their full potential. His accomplishments serve as an inspiration to every student, proving that with hard work there is no limit to what can be achieved.”
For Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick, Thomas’s story represents something larger than a single accomplishment.
“You never know what someone else is going through, and just saying hello to them or holding the door can make a difference,” the senator said. “That’s exactly Thomas’s message, and it’s a message people of every age can learn from.”
