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CONGRESSMAN LAWLER LEADS LETTER DEMANDING IMMEDIATE INVESTIGATION INTO HOW ANTI-SEMITIC QUESTION APPEARED ON STATEWIDE EXAM

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2 years ago

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Washington, D.C., 2/2/2023… Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17)  was joined by 8 of his Republican colleagues from New York in sending a letter to Governor Hochul and New York State Education Department Commissioner Betty Rosa demanding an investigation into how an anti-Semitic question appeared on a statewide Regents Exam.

“I was appalled to see this blatantly anti-Semitic question on the New York State Regents Exam,” said Rep. Lawler. “It displays a serious lack of oversight at the New York State Education Department and calls into question the review and approval process for the exam. How someone could have signed off on this, a question that seemingly calls into question the very right for Israel to exist, is beyond absurd.”

“Which is why we are calling on Governor Hochul and Commissioner Rosa to open an immediate investigation into this matter, so that we can hold those responsible accountable for this heinous action,” concluded Rep. Lawler. “It is imperative that we take on anti-Semitism wherever it attempts to take root and a thorough investigation into this matter should help prevent a question of this nature from ever appearing on a state Regents Exam again.”

“The inclusion of the anti-Semitic question in the New York State Regents Exam in Global History and Geography is unsettling and demonstrates a startling lack of oversight by the New York State Education Department in reviewing their testing materials.  Sadly, proponents of antisemitism continue to use all tools at their disposal to advance their hate filled ideology as is evidenced by the anti-Israel verbiage included in this winter’s statewide global history and geography test.  Governor Hochul and state education department officials must investigate this matter, ensure the proponent of the anti-Semitic question is held accountable, and work to prevent such hateful language from ever appearing in Empire State testing materials again,” said Congressman D’Esposito.

“Israel has the right to exist and any effort undertaken by the New York State Education Department to undermine this fact is shameful. In light of recent crimes against the Jewish community and a pair of deadly shootings in Israel over the weekend, we need to be doing more to combat antisemitism and reinforce the relationship between the United States and Israel,” said Congressman Molinaro.

“Anti-semitism in any form is vile, unacceptable, and I condemn it in the strongest way possible. New York students should be learning and tested on real history, not ideological revisions. I urge Governor Hochul and Commissioner Rosa to act in the best interest of our students,” said Rep. LaLota.

“It defies comprehension how such a blatant anti-Semitic question passed through the layers of approval process in our state’s education system, but unfortunately, it’s a reflection of the far-left anti-Israel ideology that is permeating our government. I stand with my colleagues in condemning these teachings and calling on them to be immediately removed from our Regents exam with a public apology to New York’s Jewish community,” said Congressman Nick Langworthy.

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Government

Rockland County Honors Marine Corps Veteran Elizabeth Rubio with 2025 Freedom Award

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3 days ago

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March 26, 2025

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County Executive Ed Day and Director Susan Branam of the Rockland County Veterans Service Agency recognized a female veteran with the Freedom Award Monday, an annual County honor made to female veterans for outstanding service to our nation.

“Acknowledging those who have worked and sacrificed to protect the freedoms we enjoy is crucial, particularly women whose contributions to building and protecting our country have long been overlooked.” said County Executive Ed Day.

The 2025 Freedom Award was presented to Marine Corps Staff Sergeant Veteran Elizabeth “Lisa” Rubio. Rubio, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, served honorably from 2011 to 2019, achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant. Throughout her career, she held key roles across multiple commands, including Marine Corps Recruiting Command and U.S. Marine Corps Forces Special Operations Command. A dedicated leader, she supported multinational training exercises, mentored recruits, and earned multiple commendations, including two Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medals.

After her military service, Lisa continued her commitment to others as a Veterans Service Officer in the County of Rockland, securing $12 million in benefits for local veterans and surviving spouses. Now pursuing a law degree, she remains devoted to advocacy and service.

“I am so proud to present this award to Lisa who not only has been a trailblazer as a female Marine, but a dedicated Veteran Service Officer, and now is completing her first year in law school. I have no doubt that she will continue to do well and serve as an inspiration to future generations,” said Veterans Service Agency Director, Susan Branam.

“We thank Lisa for her bravery and continued commitment to our residents. We are proud to list your name among the women recipients of the Rockland County Freedom Award in years past,” concluded County Executive Ed Day.

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Community

DEC Issues Safety Tips As Coyote Activity Increases During Breeding Season

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3 days ago

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March 26, 2025

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Coyotes are especially active during their breeding season, which typically runs from January to March, as they mate and prepare dens for their upcoming pups. During this time, they are more territorial, which can increase the chances of conflicts with people and pets.

To reduce these risks, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) offers several recommendations: Avoid feeding coyotes and do not leave food outside, including pet food and garbage. Always feed pets indoors and secure trash and compost piles to prevent attracting coyotes. Be firm if you see a coyote—make yourself appear larger and make noise to scare it away.  Supervise pets when they are outside, particularly at dusk and night, as small pets are most vulnerable. Install a sturdy fence that is at least four feet tall and extends six inches underground to deter coyotes. Clear brush and tall grass from around your home to eliminate hiding spots for coyotes. Encourage neighbors to follow these tips to ensure the community works together to prevent conflicts.

If a coyote is exhibiting bold behaviors and shows little or no fear of people, contact your Regional Wildlife Office or, in emergency situations, the local police department. Visit the DEC website for more information on coyotes and preventing conflicts with coyotes.

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