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

Published

1 year ago

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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.

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Government

United States Marine Corps Celebrates 251 Years of Service

Published

4 hours ago

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November 11, 2026

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The United States Marine Corps celebrates its 251st birthday, marking more than two and a half centuries of courage, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to our nation.

Here in Rockland County, we take particular pride in Marine veteran and local resident Megan Leavey, whose remarkable service alongside her military working dog, Rex, stands as a powerful testament to bravery, perseverance, and the extraordinary bond between Marines and their K9 partners.

Their story is a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who serve and the lasting impact of their commitment to protecting our country.

Happy 251st Birthday to the United States Marine Corps, and heartfelt thanks to all who have served.

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Government

Congers Lake Trailway Repairs More Than Halfway Complete, Full Walking Loop Expected to Reopen by Mid-November

Published

22 hours ago

on

November 10, 2026

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Wooden pier over rocky shoreline with water.

CONGERS, NY — Good news for Rockland County residents who enjoy walking, running, and spending time outdoors. Repair work on the popular Congers Lake Trailway in the Town of Clarkstown is progressing on schedule, with construction now more than halfway complete.

The ongoing project focuses on strengthening sections of the trailway’s boardwalk by installing additional supports underneath the decking to improve its structural stability and safety.

According to the latest project update, construction is moving forward as planned, with repairs expected to be completed by mid-November 2026.Once the work is finished, residents will once again be able to enjoy the complete walking loop around Congers Lake, a popular destination for outdoor recreation in Rockland County.

The Congers Lake Trailway attracts walkers, joggers, families, and nature enthusiasts who visit throughout the year to enjoy scenic views of the lake and surrounding natural landscape. The repair project is intended to restore full access to the trailway while strengthening the boardwalk for continued community use.

Officials thanked residents for their patience during construction and expressed excitement about welcoming visitors back to the entire trail.

With the project now more than halfway finished, the full Congers Lake walking loop is expected to reopen following the completion of repairs in mid-November.

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