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Senator Bill Weber Names Virginia Norfleet as 2025 NYS Senate Woman of Distinction

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Senator Bill Weber is honored to announce that Virginia “Ginny” Norfleet has been selected as his 2025 Woman of Distinction in recognition of her dedication to preserving African American history in Haverstraw and empowering the Rockland community.

Ms. Norfleet is the Founder and Executive Director of the Haverstraw African American Connection (HAAC), a 501(c)(3) organization that educates the public about the deep and rich history of African Americans in Haverstraw. Since founding HAAC in 2008, she has worked tirelessly to ensure that African American heritage is acknowledged and celebrated in schools, libraries, colleges, and community groups across Rockland County.

Born the youngest of nine siblings in Haverstraw, New York, Virginia overcame significant economic challenges to become a successful real estate entrepreneur and a civil rights leader. She has used her skills to revitalize her community.

Ms. Norfleet’s research has uncovered the roots of Rockland’s pre-Revolutionary African American families, leading to collaboration with institutions such as the Rockland Holocaust Museum and Center for Tolerance and Education, which now hosts an exhibit on American slavery.

With the help of neighbors and volunteers, Ms. Norfleet transformed a drug-ridden area on Clinton Street into the Haverstraw African American Memorial Park, preserving an important landmark of Haverstraw’s history. Her advocacy has earned her well-deserved recognition, including induction into the Rockland County Civil Rights Hall of Fame in 2019 and recognition from the Town of Haverstraw during Black History Month in 2021.

“Virginia Norfleet has devoted her life to preserving African American history in Rockland County while fostering greater awareness and unity in the community,” said Senator Weber. “Virginia’s contributions to advocacy and education make her the right recipient for this honor.”

Senator Weber will formally honor Ms. Norfleet, alongside his Senate colleagues’ nominees, at a special recognition event in Albany on May 13, 2025.

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The Turtles of Western Highway Need You to Drive SLOWLY from May Through June

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April 12, 2025

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This nesting ritual is an annual spring event from May through June. Be vigilant when driving, and watch for turtles in the road. Drive SLOWLY on Western Highway in Blauvelt between Theis Road and O’Sullivan’s Tree Service. The Turtles of Western Highway need you!

  • Use Route 303 as an alternate to Western Hwy during migration
  • Stop to allow moms to cross (they will move on their own)
  • Spread awareness to others
  • Do not harvest for food – tested turtles show pesticide contaminants
  • If you must move a turtle, hold by their sides at the back of the shell.
    Move it in the same direction it is heading. To prevent spine damage,
    DO NOT pick up by the tail.
  • BlauveltWest Nyack border

The Common Snapping Turtle is the official State Reptile of New York

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Government

DEC Urges New Yorkers to Practice BearWise Basics to Prevent Human-Bear Conflicts as Black Bears Emerge from Winter Dens

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April 12, 2025

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According to the DEC, throughout the spring and early summer months, black bears have depleted fat reserves and will search extensively for easily obtainable, calorie-dense foods, which can lead to an increase in the potential for human-bear conflicts near homes and residential areas, especially before the spring green-up when natural food sources for bears are scarce.

Across New York State, black bears are emerging from their winter dens looking for something good to eat, including human-created sources like bird feeders, grills, and pet food. Repeated access to these food sources can make bears bolder, so DEC encourages New Yorkers to practice the BearWise basics to help keep bears wild and prevent the potential for human-bear conflicts.

  • Empty feeders and clean spilled seed and let nature feed the birds from spring through fall.
  • Secure or store garbage and recycling cans in a sturdy building.
  • Clean and remove residual grease and food from grills and smokers.
  • Keep pets and livestock food indoors; those with chicken coops or apiaries should consider installing an electric fence to protect flocks and hives.

With an estimated 8,000 bears in New York, it’s essential that both individuals and communities work together to prevent these animals from becoming habituated to human food sources. By doing so, we can help ensure bears remain wild, healthy, and safe.

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