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

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2 years ago

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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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Government

Rockland County Shares Back-to-School Safety Tips for Drivers, Students

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1 month ago

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August 27, 2026

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With the new school year just around the corner, Rockland County roads will soon become busier with children walking and biking to school, crossing streets and gathering at bus stops during the morning and afternoon commute.

The county is reminding parents, caregivers, students and drivers to take extra precautions to help keep children safe as they return to school.

Younger children can be especially difficult for motorists to see, while some students may be using a new bus stop, crossing unfamiliar streets or walking to school on their own for the first time.

Through its federally funded Safe Streets program, Rockland County is sharing several back-to-school safety reminders for students and motorists.

Safety Tips For Students

Students waiting for the bus are encouraged to:

  • Arrive at the bus stop early and avoid rushing.
  • Stay at least 10 feet away from the curb while waiting for the bus.
  • Look left, right and left again before crossing a street.
  • Never walk behind a school bus.

Safety Tips For Drivers

Motorists are reminded to slow down and remain alert when driving near schools, bus stops and areas where children may be walking or biking.

Drivers should also obey flashing school bus lights and stop as required when children are entering or exiting a school bus.

With more students expected on local roads once classes resume, the county is urging everyone to stay attentive and give children the extra time and space they need to travel safely.

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Government

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

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2 months 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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