Government

“No Empty Chair” Initiative By Rockland County Executive Ed Day

Published

11 months ago

May 18, 2025

As we head into the final stretch of the school year, our calendars fill with proms, graduations, and family gatherings. These are joyful milestones—moments that should be filled with laughter, photographs, and pride, not tragedy.
As both a father and a former NYPD Police Commander, I know all too well how one bad decision can turn a celebration into a catastrophe. Every day, approximately 37 people lose their lives in drunk-driving crashes across the United States, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. That’s 37 empty chairs at family dinners, graduations, and milestones that will never be experienced again.

Here in Rockland, we are taking action to help prevent these tragedies. Our Rockland County STOP DWI & Traffic Safety Office is proud to support the “No Empty Chair” initiative, a campaign backed by the New York State Governor’s Traffic Safety Committee. Its purpose is simple but powerful: to make sure no high school graduation or prom seat is left empty because of a preventable car crash.

We are asking every teen, parent, and community member to make smart choices and speak up when you see risky behavior. Specifically, we urge you to:

Drive responsibly
Never drink or use drugs and drive
Stay cell phone-free behind the wheel – no texting or calling
Always wear your seatbelt
If you’re in danger or unsure, make a call – it could save your life
To our young people: I know how exciting this time is for you. I want each of you to enjoy it fully—but safely. Your lives are just beginning, and your families, your schools, and your communities want nothing more than to see you succeed, thrive, and be there to celebrate the next chapter.

Let’s make sure every seat at graduation is filled, every prom photo has a full group, and every celebration ends with everyone home safe.

You matter. Let’s keep it that way.

This is a weekly column by Rockland County Executive Ed Day. Photo by the Haverstraw Police Department.

Government

Secure Shred Event: Safely Dispose of Personal Documents Near You

Published

1 week ago

April 11, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

Residents are invited to safely dispose of sensitive documents at an upcoming Community Paper Shredding Event, designed to help protect against identity theft while promoting environmentally responsible recycling.

The event will provide a convenient and secure way for community members to shred personal documents such as old bank statements, tax records, medical paperwork, and other confidential materials. All documents will be shredded on-site by a professional shredding service, ensuring that personal information is fully destroyed.

In addition to helping residents safeguard their private information, the event supports sustainability efforts by ensuring that shredded paper is properly recycled.

Residents are encouraged to bring documents in boxes or bags. Please note that paper clips and staples are acceptable; however, large binder clips, folders, and non-paper materials should be removed in advance.

To allow as many residents as possible to participate, there may be a limit on the number of boxes per household.

This event is open to the general public, and no businesses will be permitted. See flyer for dates in your town.

Government

Clarkstown Honors 2026 Women of Distinction for Leadership and Community Service

Published

3 weeks ago

March 28, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

The Town of Clarkstown proudly celebrated its second annual Women of Distinction Ceremony for 2026, honoring local women who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, service, and dedication to the community.

Supervisor George Hoehmann selected two honorees, while each Town Council member recognized one woman from their ward. The honorees were recognized for their contributions to volunteerism, public service, and nonprofit work across Clarkstown and Rockland County.

“This year’s honorees embody the very best of our community,” said Supervisor Hoehmann. “Their compassion, leadership, and commitment to service continue to inspire us all.”

2026 Honorees

Breda Lyons and Catherine Levins (Supervisor’s Honorees)
Owners of River Court On Main in New City, Lyons and Levins have combined entrepreneurship with philanthropy, supporting numerous local charities, organizing drives for children in need, and giving back to community organizations.

Roberta Bangs (Ward 3 – Councilman Don Franchino)
A dedicated volunteer, Bangs has served as President of Hi-Tor Animal Shelter and the Nanuet Civic Association, while supporting organizations such as People to People and the Nanuet Ambulance Corps.

Jane Provenzano (Ward 2 – Councilman Mike Graziano)
A longtime advocate for individuals with developmental disabilities, Provenzano founded PRO U ED, a program for adults with special needs, and serves as Vice President of the Congers Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary.

Roxanne Perrone (Ward 4 – Councilman Bob Axelrod)
Perrone has played a key role in supporting New City’s small business community and serves as a trustee of the New City Library and member of the Clarkstown Planning Board.

Maura Donoghue (Ward 1 – Councilman Jon Valentino)
Donoghue oversees housing programs for the Rockland County Department of Social Services, managing initiatives that support vulnerable residents, including Section 8 housing and emergency services.

The Town of Clarkstown extended its congratulations and gratitude to all of the honorees for their lasting impact on the community.