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Back to School Tips for Reducing Waste and Saving Money

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6 months ago

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The new school year can bring excitement—but also added expenses and unnecessary waste. From plastic packaging to unused supplies and food waste, the impact adds up quickly. The good news? With a few simple changes, families, students, and teachers can make the season more sustainable without breaking the bank.

Here are 8 easy back-to-school tips to reduce waste this fall:

  1. Reuse what you already have – Don’t toss supplies that still work. Pens, folders, backpacks, and binders can often last another year.

  2. Buy recycled – Look for school supplies made from recycled paper, plastic, and other eco-friendly materials.

  3. Organize a swap – Host a back-to-school supply swap with neighbors, classmates, or your PTA group.

  4. Shop secondhand – Thrift stores are great for gently used clothes, backpacks, and even office supplies.

  5. Use reusable lunch gear – Replace plastic bags and single-use containers with reusable lunchboxes, containers, and snack bags.

  6. Ditch disposable bottles and utensils – Invest in a sturdy reusable water bottle and travel cutlery set.

  7. Pack right-sized portions – Avoid food waste by packing just enough for lunch and snacks.

  8. Save leftovers – Encourage kids to bring home uneaten food to enjoy later instead of tossing it.

Small actions add up—starting the school year with eco-friendly habits can help reduce waste and teach lifelong sustainability lessons.

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Women’s History Month Spotlight: Dr. Frances Pratt Honored for Civil Rights Leadership in Rockland County

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2 days ago

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March 9, 2026

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Dr. Pratt, a renowned civil rights leader and former president of the Nyack NAACP, has been honored with the Key to Rockland County — the highest civilian honor awarded by the county executive.

The recognition highlights Pratt’s tireless work advocating for equality, justice, and opportunity throughout the region. During her tenure with the NAACP in Nyack, she played a critical role in promoting civil rights initiatives and strengthening community engagement across Rockland County.

For many residents, Dr. Pratt’s leadership has left a lasting impact on the community. Her dedication to public service and advocacy has helped make Rockland County a more inclusive and equitable place.

As Women’s History Month celebrates the achievements and contributions of women across the country, local leaders say Dr. Pratt’s legacy stands as a powerful example of how one person’s commitment to justice and service can positively influence an entire community.

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Community

Nyack Wins Section 1 Class AA Championship, Edges Ossining 46-44

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2 days ago

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March 8, 2026

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Photo by Peter Carr/The Journal News

WHITE PLAINS, NY — In a thrilling finish under the bright lights of the Westchester County Center, Nyack captured the Section 1 Class AA girls basketball championship with a dramatic 46-44 victory over Ossining on March 7, 2026.

The championship clash delivered exactly what fans expected from two of the region’s top programs — a fast-paced, physical battle that came down to the final moments. Both teams traded runs throughout the game, with Nyack pushing the tempo on offense while Ossining relied on its strong defensive pressure to keep the contest tight.

With the score separated by just a possession late in the fourth quarter, Nyack held firm defensively and made the plays needed to secure the two-point victory.

As the final buzzer sounded, Nyack players rushed the court in celebration, gathering around head coach Kervins Ferdilus after sealing the 46-44 win. The emotional moment marked a major milestone for the program and capped off an impressive postseason run.

The packed crowd at the Westchester County Center witnessed a championship game filled with intensity, clutch plays, and momentum swings — the kind of performance that has come to define Section 1 girls basketball.

For Nyack, the victory not only secured the sectional title but also highlighted the team’s resilience and composure in one of the biggest games of the season.

 

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