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Rockland Legislator Paul and TOUCH Collect Over 100 Winter Coats for Annual Drive

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3 years ago

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NEW CITY, NY – As colder temperatures close their grip on Rockland, dozens of warm winter coats will be available to our neighbors thanks to a successful coat drive sponsored by Rockland County Legislature Vice Chairwoman Aney Paul in partnership with TOUCH – Together Our Unity Can Heal.

“Many of our neighbors face difficult struggles and could use our support during their challenging times,” Legislator Paul said. “A warm coat to wear during the cold winter months is one way we can help. It not only protects a person from the elements, but it’s a tangible expression of our love for our neighbors.”

 

TOUCH (Together Our Unity Can Heal) is a community-based public health organization that provides compassionate and effective services to our neighbors in the Hudson Valley. It is the lead agency for Rockland Community Against Hunger, and along with its partners, distributed food for more than 1 million meals throughout Rockland County in 2023. TOUCH has been a Ryan White AIDS Service Organization for more than 30 years. The organization, whose work leads to healthier individuals and stronger communities, will handle the distribution of the coats, as well as the hats, gloves, sweaters and other clothing that was donated.

“This show of support is very much appreciated, and I know it will make a difference to our clients who need warm coats and clothing,” TOUCH Executive Director Julian Palmer said. “I want to thank everyone who took the time to donate and help their Rockland County neighbors.”

With the exception of 2020, Legislator Paul has sponsored a Winter Coat Drive annually since 2015, partnering with local social services agencies assisting Rockland County residents, including Catholic Charities Community Services of Rockland, Helping Hands of Rockland, People to People, the Center for Safety & Change, and for the second consecutive year, TOUCH.

“I hope everyone knows that no matter the amount of your donation, your generosity is greatly appreciated, and I thank all who contributed,” Legislator Paul said.

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Government

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

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4 days ago

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August 9, 2026

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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.

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Government

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

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6 days ago

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August 8, 2026

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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?

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