Latest news with #PeterOrtiz
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Politics
- Yahoo
Dozens storm South Bay ICE office in defense of community migrants
The Brief The work week ended with demonstrators taking to the streets in protest after ICE agents detained several people for deportation. The removal of individuals and families has stoked a growing fear in the South Bay and beyond, according to advocates and community activists. San Jose District 5 Councilman Peter Ortiz introduced a memo requesting an additional $1 million in emergency funding be allocated to protect immigrant and undocumented communities. SAN JOSE, Calif. - The work week ended similar to how it began in the South Bay, with demonstrators taking to the streets protesting actions by ICE agents. The initial rally started outside the immigration office in the 400 block of Blossom Hill Road. Participants then marched east on Blossom Hill about a half mile and entered a building housing an ICE office. Anti-ICE chants of "shut ICE down!" echoed through the cramped hallways and stairways as the group made its way to an upper floor of the building in the 300 block of Blossom Hill. Dozens of community organizers and neighbors were determined to close a South San Jose Immigration and Customs Enforcement office. "There's 146 seniors that live here. We don't want them here. They just got here a couple of months ago," said neighbor Irene Madrid Morales, who lives in a senior center next door to the ICE office. Once the group reached its destination, to its surprise, the office was already closed. "We're still making a point to other neighboring offices, that we don't want them — ICE — to be present in the building, at all," said organizer Uriel Magdoleno. The loud vocal push back came after ICE agents had, during the week, detained several people for deportation. "We will defend our immigrant brothers and sisters. Our immigrant neighbors." – Joao Paulo Connolly, Silicon Valley Rising An emailed statement from the agency read, in part, "ICE has identified individuals with outstanding Final Orders of removal who may be removed from the United families came as a group illegally to the United States... Many of these same families have lost their case after being afforded due process. Accordingly, many are detained, pending removal." The removal of individuals and families has stoked a growing fear in the South Bay and beyond, according to advocates and community activists. "These raids are not about justice or security. They are about terrorizing our communities," said Leila, a member of the Silicon Valley Immigration Committee. Added San Jose District 2 Councilwoman Pamela Campos, "We know the Trump administration set out with the idea that immigrants in our community are criminals." San Jose District 5 Councilman Peter Ortiz on Friday introduced a memo requesting an additional $1 million in emergency funding be allocated to protect immigrant and undocumented communities. "It's the city's job to make sure that the people of the city of San Jose are safe, regardless of their citizenship," said Ortiz. Added Rapid Response Network founding member Richard Hobbs, "We are here today to build power, not panic, in the community." It was a patchwork of community groups, forged by the determination to protect their own, and push out an unwanted tenant — from the building in the 300 block of Blossom Hill Road and from the larger Bay Area. "We will defend our immigrant brothers and sisters. Our immigrant neighbors," said Joao Paulo Connolly of Silicon Valley Rising. Ortiz's office said the requested emergency funding would be added to Mayor Matt Mahan's overall budget. The mayor had already requested $500,000. A majority of the council members would need to approve the expenditure as early as June 10. Jesse Gary is a reporter based in the station's South Bay bureau. Follow him on the Instagram platform, @jessegontv and on Facebook, @JesseKTVU. The Source KTVU reporting
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Politics
- Yahoo
San Jose's undocumented residents ‘under attack' by ICE, councilman says
(KRON) — Following recent arrests in San Jose carried out by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, a city councilman declared that local undocumented residents are 'under attack.' Councilmember Peter Ortiz described increased federal immigration enforcement as 'disturbing.' Ortiz sent a memo Friday calling on the city to allocate $1 million in emergency funding to support and protect immigrant and undocumented communities. The councilman said he is making the request in the midst of increased ICE apprehensions and the recent opening of a new ICE office in South San Jose. 'Our community is under attack. ICE has begun to increase its presence in our neighborhoods, and families are being torn apart. These are not abstract headlines — these are our neighbors, our friends, our coworkers. The people of San Jose deserve to feel safe in their own city,' Ortiz said. The memo calls on the City Council to approve the funding during a final budget hearing on Tuesday, June 10th, as a moral response to the 'crisis.' The requested $1 million will provide legal assistance, rapid response services, and community outreach to ensure undocumented residents know their rights and have access to help. ICE agents made arrests in San Jose Wednesday. On Tuesday, ICE agents were seen conducting an operation in the area of Snell Avenue and Blossom Hill Road. 'We know the federal government is ramping up enforcement efforts and expanding their capacity to detain and deport. What we've seen here in San Jose is likely just the beginning,' Ortiz said. 'We cannot allow members of our community to be hunted and captured like animals.' A U.S. Department of Homeland Security spokesperson told KRON4 on Friday that ICE's Alternatives to Detention (ATD) program and Intensive Supervision Appearance Program (ISAP) exist to ensure compliance. The Department of Homeland Security spokesperson said, 'All illegal aliens are afforded due process. Those arrested had executable final orders of removal by an immigration judge and had not complied with that order. If you are in the country illegally and a judge has ordered you to be removed, that is precisely what will happen. During the Biden administration, thousands of illegal aliens — including violent criminals — with final orders of removal were on ATD and allowed to roam our communities. This should never have been the case. Thanks to the leadership of Secretary Noem and President Trump, the proper policy is back in place.' Ortiz's memo said immigrants serve a critical role in the cultural, social, and economic vitality of San Jose. The San Jose City Budget Hearing will take place June 10 at City Hall. Public comment will be open, and residents are encouraged to attend and speak out. Federal immigration agents raided several locations in downtown Los Angeles Friday. Agents reportedly detained dozens of people while encountering protesters. Officers wearing vests emblazoned with HSI — an acronym for Homeland Security Investigations — were seen taking people into custody, KTLA reported. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Ascent Hospitality Management, Franchisor for Perkins and Huddle House Restaurants, Closes Fiscal Year 2025 with Record-Breaking Achievements
Franchise development reaches new heights with over 100 new agreements signed, led by multiple landmark multi-unit deals ATLANTA, June 03, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Ascent Hospitality Management®, the parent company of Huddle House® and Perkins American Food Co., recently closed its 2025 fiscal year with record-breaking performances across both brands. The year was spotlighted with the launch of the newest Perkins concept, Perkins Griddle & Go, which has already sealed deals for 46 units and sold out four New Jersey counties. The Ascent Development team signed over 100 new agreements in FY25 and continues to attract new and existing franchisees to their brands. "Our 2025 fiscal year was packed with exciting initiatives, most notably our Perkins Griddle & Go concept that has been driving an incredible amount of interest. Our development team, led by Peter Ortiz, has been expanding our presence across the country and making historic deals along the way," said James O'Reilly, CEO of Ascent Hospitality Management. "We welcomed several multi-unit owners, signing on for 10 units and more, to grow our brands at an impressive rate. As we continue to evolve our brands and expand their footprints, we are fortunate to have strong leadership and passionate franchise partners to take us to new heights and build on our legacy brands." Perkins Evolution Drives Unprecedented Growth A key highlight of the fiscal year is the Perkins Griddle & Go concept, a modern twist on the Perkins brand that caters to guests on the go with its convenience-centered service format. Perkins opened the flagship Perkins Griddle & Go in Canada in late 2024. Since the launch of Perkins Griddle & Go, the company has sold out four counties in New Jersey, including Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, and Ocean County. Each of these counties was purchased by new franchisees, building excitement around bringing Perkins to a new generation. The first U.S. Perkins Griddle & Go is slated to open in Fort Monmouth across from the new Netflix Studios campus. The Ascent Development team also signed first-ever multi-unit franchise agreements in California and Texas, expanding the brand's presence in the United States. In addition to landmark agreements in new states, Perkins also signed a multi-unit agreement in Calgary, Alberta, marking the first Canadian expansion in many years. Another significant highlight and historic moment for Perkins was the unveiling of the latest restaurant design. The flagship restaurant, located in Orlando, is the first to boast the newest state-of-the-art look and service elements, including a completely revamped menu and new beverage options- frozen drinks, boba chillers, craft refreshers, and signature cocktails. The company celebrated the Central Florida restaurant with much fanfare through a multi-day event this past March. "Perkins truly is the hottest brand in restaurant franchising right now," said Peter Ortiz, Chief Development Officer with Ascent Hospitality Management. "We've made significant investments to elevate our brand, with new prototypes, new restaurant design, new menus, and a new leadership team that is driven to bring Perkins into the future – and it's working. Our brand is attracting the attention of multi-unit investors who are buying up entire territories. We fully expect to be sold out in the United States in the next three to five years." Huddle House Makes Historic Moves Huddle House also had its share of achievements in FY25. The brand signed more than 50 agreements, including deals with existing franchise partners. The most recent fiscal year was marked by the largest deal in Huddle House history in Houston, TX, with 20 locations planned for the area in the coming years. The company also signed multiple new agreements in Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, North Carolina and South Carolina, further expanding the brand's footprint in the Southeast. In addition to new signings, Huddle House opened new locations in Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Texas. "Interest continues to grow for the Huddle House brand, but more importantly, our franchisees are reinvesting. We have partners furthering their commitments by adding new locations to their portfolios to ensure our strong presence into the future," Ortiz said. "Overall, for Perkins and Huddle House, we've demonstrated during the past year that our strategy to elevate these great brands is working to attract multi-unit investors like never before. The momentum we're experiencing going into a new fiscal year is incredible, and we fully expect to have another year of remarkable growth as we continue to bring these brands to new heights." To learn more about Ascent Hospitality Management and its franchise opportunities, visit About Ascent Hospitality Management® Ascent Hospitality Management is a premier multi-brand restaurant company renowned for its leadership in nurturing and expanding legendary franchised brands. With a portfolio that includes over 600 Huddle House and Perkins American Food Co. locations open or in development nationwide, Ascent Hospitality Management leverages decades of expertise from its experienced leadership team. Committed to creating an exceptional workplace, fostering lifelong customer relationships, and becoming the franchisor of choice, Ascent Hospitality Management® is dedicated to driving growth and innovation in the restaurant industry. To learn more, visit View source version on Contacts Media Contact Brianne Barbakoffbrianne@ Sign in to access your portfolio
Business Wire
5 days ago
- Business
- Business Wire
Ascent Hospitality Management, Franchisor for Perkins and Huddle House Restaurants, Closes Fiscal Year 2025 with Record-Breaking Achievements
ATLANTA--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Ascent Hospitality Management ®, the parent company of Huddle House ® and Perkins American Food Co., recently closed its 2025 fiscal year with record-breaking performances across both brands. The year was spotlighted with the launch of the newest Perkins concept, Perkins Griddle & Go, which has already sealed deals for 46 units and sold out four New Jersey counties. The Ascent Development team signed over 100 new agreements in FY25 and continues to attract new and existing franchisees to their brands. "Our 2025 fiscal year was packed with exciting initiatives, most notably our Perkins Griddle & Go concept that has been driving an incredible amount of interest. Our development team, led by Peter Ortiz, has been expanding our presence across the country and making historic deals along the way,' said James O'Reilly, CEO of Ascent Hospitality Management. 'We welcomed several multi-unit owners, signing on for 10 units and more, to grow our brands at an impressive rate. As we continue to evolve our brands and expand their footprints, we are fortunate to have strong leadership and passionate franchise partners to take us to new heights and build on our legacy brands.' Perkins Evolution Drives Unprecedented Growth A key highlight of the fiscal year is the Perkins Griddle & Go concept, a modern twist on the Perkins brand that caters to guests on the go with its convenience-centered service format. Perkins opened the flagship Perkins Griddle & Go in Canada in late 2024. Since the launch of Perkins Griddle & Go, the company has sold out four counties in New Jersey, including Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, and Ocean County. Each of these counties was purchased by new franchisees, building excitement around bringing Perkins to a new generation. The first U.S. Perkins Griddle & Go is slated to open in Fort Monmouth across from the new Netflix Studios campus. The Ascent Development team also signed first-ever multi-unit franchise agreements in California and Texas, expanding the brand's presence in the United States. In addition to landmark agreements in new states, Perkins also signed a multi-unit agreement in Calgary, Alberta, marking the first Canadian expansion in many years. Another significant highlight and historic moment for Perkins was the unveiling of the latest restaurant design. The flagship restaurant, located in Orlando, is the first to boast the newest state-of-the-art look and service elements, including a completely revamped menu and new beverage options- frozen drinks, boba chillers, craft refreshers, and signature cocktails. The company celebrated the Central Florida restaurant with much fanfare through a multi-day event this past March. 'Perkins truly is the hottest brand in restaurant franchising right now,' said Peter Ortiz, Chief Development Officer with Ascent Hospitality Management. 'We've made significant investments to elevate our brand, with new prototypes, new restaurant design, new menus, and a new leadership team that is driven to bring Perkins into the future – and it's working. Our brand is attracting the attention of multi-unit investors who are buying up entire territories. We fully expect to be sold out in the United States in the next three to five years.' Huddle House Makes Historic Moves Huddle House also had its share of achievements in FY25. The brand signed more than 50 agreements, including deals with existing franchise partners. The most recent fiscal year was marked by the largest deal in Huddle House history in Houston, TX, with 20 locations planned for the area in the coming years. The company also signed multiple new agreements in Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana, North Carolina and South Carolina, further expanding the brand's footprint in the Southeast. In addition to new signings, Huddle House opened new locations in Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Texas. 'Interest continues to grow for the Huddle House brand, but more importantly, our franchisees are reinvesting. We have partners furthering their commitments by adding new locations to their portfolios to ensure our strong presence into the future,' Ortiz said. 'Overall, for Perkins and Huddle House, we've demonstrated during the past year that our strategy to elevate these great brands is working to attract multi-unit investors like never before. The momentum we're experiencing going into a new fiscal year is incredible, and we fully expect to have another year of remarkable growth as we continue to bring these brands to new heights.' To learn more about Ascent Hospitality Management and its franchise opportunities, visit Ascent Hospitality Management is a premier multi-brand restaurant company renowned for its leadership in nurturing and expanding legendary franchised brands. With a portfolio that includes over 600 Huddle House and Perkins American Food Co. locations open or in development nationwide, Ascent Hospitality Management leverages decades of expertise from its experienced leadership team. Committed to creating an exceptional workplace, fostering lifelong customer relationships, and becoming the franchisor of choice, Ascent Hospitality Management ® is dedicated to driving growth and innovation in the restaurant industry. To learn more, visit
Yahoo
08-02-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Demonstrators take to streets over ICE arrests as San Francisco, South Bay sue Trump
SAN JOSE, Calif. - Dozens of activists from various South Bay groups marched through the streets of Downtown San Jose on Friday, shouting, "Stand up! Fight back!," and "Si se puede!" The chants reflected a united message to the larger community: Stand together or fall under oppression. "San Jose at times can feel very divisive. And if you were born and raised here like I was, you know we tend to operate secularly, each group staying with their own group. But right now we need to come together on a united front," said activist Ashlie Andrade. Demonstrators walked approximately five blocks to city hall, where they held a rally they say is fueled by the Trump Administration's efforts to deport undocumented migrants. "...They're calling for my arrest. If that's the case, then I know I'm doing a good job." – Peter Ortiz, San Jose City Council Member Days ago, San Jose councilman Peter Ortiz warned his District 5 constituents of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activities to make arrests. Ortiz said now he's in the Justice Department's crosshairs. "... They're calling for my arrest. If that's the case, then I know I'm doing a good job. I didn't run for office to make Fox News happy. I didn't run for office to make rich people, oligarchs happy. I ran to advocate for the working people of East San Jose," he said. Added Santa Clara County Counsel Tony Lopresti, "The federal government can't commandeer our local government. They can't commandeer our local resources." Also on Friday and 50 miles north in a San Francisco office, attorneys who represent Santa Clara County and the City of San Francisco announced the filing of a joint lawsuit over President Trump's plans to cut funding for so-called sanctuary cities. "The Trump administration is certainly interfering with our ability to do our job. They're trying to take away our autonomy and interfering with our ability to keep our residents safe," said David Chiu, the San Francisco city attorney. Other municipalities, such as New Haven, Conn., Portland, Ore., and King County, Wash., have also joined the suit, which seeks to block Trump from withholding federal funding for sanctuary cities. Back in the South Bay, immigration enforcement by federal agents is having a galvanizing effect on many minority communities. Many members are fearful those who are current targets could lead the authorities to feel emboldened and eventually target all communities. "Once Trump declared war on the Hispanic community which he has and [is trying] to get rid of them, that they're going to go to the African American community," said Ryan Otis of the San Jose-Silicon Valley NAACP. South Bay and San Francisco officials stressed their police or sheriff's departments are not and will not help ICE agents in their enforcement actions. Jesse Gary is a reporter based in the station's South Bay bureau. Follow him on the Instagram platform, @jessegontv and on Facebook, @JesseKTVU
