Connect with us

Government

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

Published

1 year ago

on

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.

Related Topics:
Continue Reading
Advertisement

Government

Clarkstown Town Clerk Lauren Marie Wohl Launches Text Alerts for Tax Bill Updates

Published

4 days ago

on

August 9, 2026

By

CLARKSTOWN, NY — Beginning with the new tax season on September 1, the Clarkstown Town Clerk’s Office will offer residents a new and convenient way to receive updates about their tax bills directly by text message.

Town Clerk Lauren Marie Wohl announced that residents can opt in to the service by texting “TAXINFO” to 845-644-6899.

Once a resident’s tax bill is ready, those enrolled will receive a text message containing a link. Residents can then enter their property address to view their tax bill and, if they choose, make a payment online.

The new text notification system does not replace traditional mailed tax bills. Residents who sign up for the service will continue to receive their regular tax bill in the mail. The text alerts are intended to provide an additional and more convenient way for residents to know when their bills are available and access their information.

“Residents asked for a simpler way to receive tax bill information, and I’m proud that we were able to make it happen,” Wohl said.

Residents with questions about the new service can contact the Clarkstown Town Clerk’s Office at 845-639-2010.

Continue Reading

Government

Flock Cameras in Rockland County: Safety Tool or Privacy Concern?

Published

5 days ago

on

August 8, 2026

By

Flock cameras have become an increasingly debated topic across the country, including here in Rockland County.

Flock cameras are automated license plate readers used by law enforcement to capture license plates and vehicle characteristics as vehicles pass by. Police can use the information to assist with investigations, including locating stolen vehicles, identifying vehicles associated with wanted suspects, helping find missing people and developing leads following crimes.

One of the cameras pictured is located outside The Shops at Nanuet in Clarkstown. A graphic from the website DeFlock also shows reported camera locations throughout the area.

Supporters say the technology can give police an important investigative tool and help solve crimes more quickly. Critics, however, have raised concerns about privacy and the collection of information about where people drive, even when they are not suspected of committing a crime.

The debate ultimately comes down to a question of public safety versus privacy.

What do you think? Are Flock cameras a valuable tool for law enforcement, or are they an intrusion on your privacy?

Continue Reading

Trending