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Artists and Photographers Invited to Enter 2026 New York Arbor Day Contest

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9 months ago

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The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has announced the launch of its annual Arbor Day Poster Contest, encouraging photographers and artists of all ages to submit original work celebrating the beauty and importance of trees.

This year’s contest theme is “Trees for the Future,” highlighting the vital role trees play in environmental health, climate resilience, and supporting future generations. The winning submission will be featured on the official 2026 New York State Arbor Day Poster, which is distributed statewide to schools, libraries, conservation organizations, and community events including the New York State Fair.

According to DEC Commissioner Amanda Lefton, the contest is an opportunity to showcase how trees contribute to a healthier environment and stronger communities. Submissions should reflect the theme through original photography or artwork and depict trees growing in New York State.

Contest Guidelines:

  • Theme: Trees for the Future

  • Mediums Accepted: Original artwork or photography

  • Eligibility: Open to all ages; one entry per person

  • Location Requirement: Trees must be located in New York State

  • Deadline: November 30, 2025

  • Submission: Entries must meet resolution requirements and be submitted through the DEC’s online form

The contest is organized by the New York State Arbor Day Committee, which includes the DEC, the Department of Agriculture and Markets, the Empire State Forestry Foundation, the New York State Arborists Association, and Sylvamo North America.

Full contest rules and the online entry form are available on the DEC website. Questions can be directed to arborday@dec.ny.gov.

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D-Day Remembrance Day: Honoring the Allied Invasion of Normandy on June 6, 1944

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4 days ago

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June 6, 2026

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On June 6, 1944, Allied forces launched D-Day (Normandy landings), part of Operation Overlord — the massive amphibious assault on Nazi-occupied France along the beaches of Normandy.

It became one of the largest and most consequential military operations of World War II, involving thousands of ships, aircraft, and ground troops from multiple Allied nations. The landings took place across five beaches — Omaha, Utah, Gold, Juno, and Sword — in a coordinated effort that would shape the course of the war in Europe.

The operation marked a decisive turning point, eventually leading to the liberation of Western Europe from Nazi control. The fighting on D-Day came at a tremendous cost, with thousands of soldiers killed or wounded on the first day alone.

Today, D-Day is remembered not only as a major military milestone, but as a moment defined by extraordinary courage, sacrifice, and unity among ordinary people called to an extraordinary mission.

                       We honor and remember those who never made it home.

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Protect Yourself and Your Loved Ones from Scams | Senior Fraud Prevention Tips

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4 days ago

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June 6, 2026

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Scammers often target older adults by pretending to be family members, government agencies, banks, healthcare providers, or technical support representatives. Their goal is to create panic, gain trust, and convince victims to send money or provide personal information.

Common Scams Targeting Seniors

• Grandparent scams involving fake emergencies and urgent requests for money

• Tech support scams claiming your computer has a virus or security problem

• Fake IRS, Social Security, Medicare, or law enforcement calls

• Lottery and sweepstakes scams promising prizes in exchange for fees

• Romance scams through social media, dating websites, and messaging apps

• Bank fraud and account compromise scams

• Investment and cryptocurrency scams promising guaranteed returns

Protect Yourself

✅ Never send money, gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers to someone you do not know or have not verified.

✅ Verify any urgent request by contacting a trusted family member, friend, or organization directly using a known phone number.

✅ Never provide personal, banking, Medicare, or Social Security information over the phone unless you initiated the contact and trust the recipient.

✅ Be cautious of callers who pressure you to act immediately, threaten consequences, or demand secrecy.

✅ Legitimate government agencies, financial institutions, and law enforcement organizations generally do not demand immediate payment by gift card, cryptocurrency, wire transfer, or other unconventional payment methods.

✅ If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

What To Do If You Suspect a Scam

📞 Hang up the phone or end the communication.

🛑 Stop responding to calls, texts, emails, or messages from the suspected scammer.

👨‍👩‍👧 Contact a trusted family member, friend, or caregiver.

📋 Report the incident to your local law enforcement agency, financial institution, or the appropriate consumer protection authorities.

Working together, we can help protect our community from fraud and scams. Stay informed, stay alert, and share this information with family, friends, and neighbors.

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