Government

2026 Freedom Award Honors U.S. Army Captain Emily Klinkenborg

Published

4 months ago

March 24, 2026

New City – County Executive Ed Day and Veterans Service Agency Director Susan Branam honored a distinguished female veteran on Monday with the annual Rockland County Freedom Award, recognizing outstanding service by women in the armed forces.

“Acknowledging those who have worked and sacrificed to protect the freedoms we enjoy is crucial,” said County Executive Ed Day. “This is especially true for women, whose contributions to building and defending our nation have too often been overlooked.”

The 2026 Freedom Award was presented to U.S. Army Captain (Ret.) Emily Klinkenborg.

A Signal Corps Officer, Klinkenborg served nearly seven years on active duty with distinction, demonstrating professionalism and strong leadership across multiple assignments. Her service included deployments and postings in Korea, Kuwait, and Hawaii.

Throughout her military career, she earned numerous honors, including the Army Civilian Service Commendation Medal, Air Force Civilian Achievement Award, Army Commendation Medal (with one Oak Leaf Cluster), Army Achievement Medal (with one Oak Leaf Cluster), National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, and the Gold German Armed Forces Badge for Military Proficiency.

Following her military service, Klinkenborg has continued her dedication to others as a board member of Rockland Homes for Heroes, supporting initiatives that benefit local veterans. She also serves her community as a County employee, further demonstrating her ongoing commitment to public service.

“I am honored to present this award to Emily, whose commitment to service—both in uniform and here at home—sets a powerful example,” said Director Susan Branam. “Her leadership, volunteerism, and unwavering advocacy for veterans make her incredibly deserving of this recognition.”

“We thank Emily for her bravery, her service to our nation, and her continued dedication to our residents,” County Executive Day added. “We are proud to add her name to the distinguished list of women who have received the Rockland County Freedom Award.”

Government

Turn Food Scraps Into Compost with Rockland’s Recycling Program

Published

1 week ago

July 18, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

After a summer barbecue or family gathering, those leftover food scraps don’t have to end up in the trash.

Rockland County is encouraging residents to join its Food Scrap Recycling Program, which diverts food waste from landfills and turns it into nutrient-rich compost.

Food scraps that end up in landfills produce methane, a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. By recycling items such as fruit and vegetable peels, coffee grounds, eggshells, and other food waste, residents can help reduce emissions while creating a valuable resource for agriculture and landscaping.

County officials say the program is easy to join and can make a meaningful difference in reducing a household’s environmental footprint.

From banana peels and watermelon rinds to leftovers from backyard cookouts, every bit of food waste recycled helps keep organic material out of landfills.

Residents interested in participating can learn more and sign up through the county’s Food Scrap Recycling Program.

Government

Rockland Health Department Issues Hudson River Recreation Update

Published

3 weeks ago

July 5, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

The Rockland County Department of Health is advising residents that the Yonkers Wastewater Recovery Facility has been fully operational since July 3, while reminding the public to follow state health guidance when recreating on the Hudson River this holiday weekend.

According to the department, the New York State Department of Health and the Department of Environmental Conservation have been coordinating with Rockland and Westchester counties, New York City, and other partner agencies following the wastewater system disruption.

Health officials said residents should not drink untreated Hudson River water under any circumstances. They also advise against swimming or participating in activities that involve full-body immersion at beaches that remain closed.

However, officials said recreational activities involving partial contact with the water—including boating, kayaking, and fishing—are considered safe. Anglers are encouraged to review New York State Department of Health fish consumption advisories before eating their catch.

The Rockland County Department of Health said it will continue working with state and local agencies to monitor conditions.