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

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1 month 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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Rockland County Offers Free Mosquito Dunks® and Mosquito-Eating Minnows to Residents

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6 days ago

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April 17, 2025

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Protect your home and community from mosquitoes this spring and summer!

The Rockland County Department of Health (RCDOH) is offering free mosquito control products to residents, including Mosquito Dunks® and fathead minnows, to help reduce the mosquito population and prevent mosquito-borne illnesses.

Mosquito Dunks® – Available by Appointment

What they are: Small, floating “donuts” that release safe bacteria to kill mosquito larvae in standing water.

Who can get them: Rockland County residents for use in unused swimming pools, spas, and other water-holding containers.

How to get them:

  • Pick-up location: Robert L. Yeager Health Complex, 50 Sanatorium Road, Building D, Pomona, NY

  • By appointment only – Reserve in advance by calling 845-364-3173 or emailing [email protected]

  • Required: Download and complete the order form from the Mosquito Control Program webpage and bring it with you to your scheduled pickup.

🐟 Fathead Minnows – One-Day Giveaway Event

What they are: Small fish that eat mosquito larvae—up to 200 larvae per day!

Event Date: Wednesday, May 21, 2025, from 4:30 PM to 6:00 PM
Location: Robert L. Yeager Health Complex, Building D, 50 Sanatorium Road, Pomona, NY
Important: Minnows must be released only within Rockland County

How to reserve:

  • Register online via the Mosquito Control Program webpage, or

  • Call 845-364-3173
    Note: The event date and time are subject to change. Signs will be posted to guide attendees to the correct location.

For more information, visit the Rockland County Health Department Mosquito Control Program webpage.

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Government

988: Three Numbers That Can Change a Life

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1 week ago

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April 14, 2025

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The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is here for anyone feeling overwhelmed, sad, stressed, or in a mental health crisis. It’s free, private, and available 24/7.

What happens when you contact 988?

  • You’ll talk with a trained counselor who listens and cares.

  • They’ll help you feel supported and work through what you’re going through.

  • You can call, text, or chat—whatever feels best for you.

988 is for everyone.

  • You don’t have to be in a serious emergency.

  • You can reach out for yourself or if you’re worried about a friend or family member.

Sharing 988 can save lives.
Let’s help more people know that support is just three numbers away.
You’re not alone—and no one else has to be either.

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