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 “We Applaud Our Heroes” By Rockland County Executive Ed Day

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1 year ago

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Every year during February we present the Buffalo Soldiers Award to outstanding African-American veterans who live in Rockland County. A “Buffalo Soldier” is the nickname first given to members of African-American cavalry regiments of the U.S. Army who served in the western United States from 1867 to 1896, noted for their courage and discipline.

Last week I had the honor and privilege of presenting the 2024 Buffalo Soldiers Award to Army Veteran James Epps while Army Veteran Grady Anderson, Jr was presented with the Buffalo Soldiers Lifetime Achievement Award. 

James Epps joined the Army in 1953 and was later stationed in Germany, where he served as a machine gunner until September of 1956, when he was honorably discharged. James has continued to serve his community delivering meals to senior citizens with the Prince Hall Freemasonry Tappan Zee Lodge No. 79, which he has been a member of since 1975.

Grady Anderson, Jr. joined the army in 1959 and where he served overseas in Germany. Upon his discharge in 1963, he returned to Spring Valley. On top of a fulfilling career as an x-ray technician when he came home, he has been a member and Past Commander of Moscarella Post 199, Member of VVA 333, and Member and past Chef de Gare of the 40&8. He also served as Oratorical Chairperson for Rockland County American Legion for 8 years.

Not only is he a past recipient of our Buffalo Soldier Award in 1993 he was co-founder and historian of Buffalo Soldier Awardees and presents that history every year at the event. 

He has received several honors over the years for his tireless devotion to our community including his 60-year membership with First Baptist Church of Spring Valley, where he is also Deacon.

George Crouch, a WWII & Korean War Veteran, was also presented with an Unsung Hero Award by the Buffalo Soldiers of Rockland County. 

It takes a certain kind of person to put your own life on hold to put your country first, but both awardees did it without hesitation. 

Their sacrifice is why we get to enjoy the freedoms we have today.

For that, we are incredibly proud to add their names to the list of Rockland County Buffalo Soldiers recognized over the past 26 years. On behalf of the people of Rockland I thank them for their service to our country and county. 

I also thank the Buffalo Soldiers of Rockland County for granting myself and our Veterans Service Agency Director Susan Branam with Honorary Membership. We will not stop fighting for the wellbeing of veterans and soldiers, both past & present.

* This is a weekly article by Rockland County Executive Ed Day.

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Rockland County Shines Blue for World Parkinson’s Day April 11th

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2 days ago

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April 10, 2025

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To mark World Parkinson’s Day, the County of Rockland is honored to take part in the global “Spark the Night” initiative by lighting the Allison-Parris County Office Building in blue from April 10th to April 11th. This act of illumination is part of a worldwide movement to raise awareness and show support for those living with Parkinson’s disease.

Parkinson’s disease is a long-term, progressive disorder of the nervous system that affects more than 10 million people globally, including nearly one million in the United States. It typically causes a gradual decline in movement and coordination, with symptoms such as tremors, muscle rigidity, slowed motion, and changes in thinking. These challenges can deeply affect not just the individuals diagnosed, but also their loved ones and caregivers.

Although the root cause of Parkinson’s is still unclear, advancements in research and treatment continue to improve the outlook for many people affected by the disease.

County Executive Ed Day proclaimed April 11th World Parkinson’s Day in Rockland County, presenting the proclamation to Parkinsons Wellness Project which provides a beacon of support for those living with Parkinson’s, providing vital resources, education, and advocacy for individuals and caregivers navigating the challenges of this disease.

By lighting up in blue, Rockland County joins landmarks around the globe in showing unity, raising public understanding, and offering hope.

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Government

Clarkstown Celebrates Grand Opening of New Turf Infields at Germonds Park

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4 days ago

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April 8, 2025

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Clarkstown was proud to announce the grand opening of multiple brand new turf infields right over at Germonds Park just in time for West Nyack Little League Opening Day. Supervisor George Hoehmann, Senator Weber, Assemblyman Carroll, and Clarkstown Town Council members were in attendance for the Ribbon Cutting and ceremony.
We applaud Town of Clarkstown Parks & Recreation and the Department of Engineering and Facilities Management for working closely with West Nyack Little League to see this incredible project through.

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