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Senator Bill Weber Presents Richie Jarcho, NYS Veterans Hall of Fame Honoree, with an Official Plaque For His Exemplary US Army Service and Unparalleled Support for Rockland County Veterans

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2 years ago

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NEW CITY, NY – Senator Bill Weber proudly presented Richie Jarcho of Sloatsburg the New York State Veterans Hall of Fame Honoree, with an official plaque and poster board bio in recognition of his exemplary United States Army service and unparalleled support for Rockland County veterans. Accompanied by his wife, Linda, the ceremony was graced with the presence of Congressman Mike Lawler and Supervisor George Hoehmann.

Richie’s full bio:

Richie Jarcho, a man with a deep sense of duty and compassion, embarked on his military journey by proactively moving up in the draft to serve his country. In 1958, he underwent basic training at Fort Dix before being stationed as a cook at Fort Benning, Georgia. However, destiny had other plans as he was deployed to Korea on General Mann’s troop ship alongside 5,000 others. Assigned to a signal outfit, Richie’s adaptability and quick learning led him to take care of generators despite having no prior experience.

Upon returning home, Richie’s commitment to service remained undiminished. When President Kennedy recalled troops due to the Berlin Crisis, Richie willingly rejoined and served at Fort Eustis, Virginia, until his honorable discharge in 1961. Following his military career, he began selling marble and glass tables for his cousin.

Richie’s journey of charity began around twenty-three years ago, triggered by a heart-rending story about a disabled veteran who lost his limbs in the war. His compassion and determination drove him to help veterans in need. Despite initial challenges, Richie persisted and established a tradition of distributing turkeys during major holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter. His efforts continued to grow, and he reached out to various organizations to expand his impact.

In addition to his turkey distributions, Richie recognized equine therapy’s potential for veterans who have PTSD. He adopted horses and partnered with sponsors like Interstate Toyota to regularly provide life-changing treatment to veterans.

Richie’s dedication did not go unnoticed, and he received numerous awards from various Rockland County municipalities for his selfless volunteer work for veterans and their families. As a testament to his extraordinary contributions, Richie is being honored as the 2023 Veterans Hall of Fame inductee for Rockland.

Richie Jarcho’s life has been a testament to the power of volunteerism, empathy, and generosity. From his military service to his communal endeavors, he has left an indelible mark on the lives of veterans and the Rockland community, showing that a single individual’s compassion can bring about profound positive change.

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Report Litterbugs in Rockland County Through Keep Rockland Beautiful Program

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2 days ago

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May 9, 2026

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Littering is illegal and can result in fines for those who commit the offense. Some litterbugs simply need to be informed and reminded that littering — whether deliberate or unintentional — can end with a personal commitment to stop.

The Keep Rockland Beautiful Report-A-Litterbug Program encourages the public to report people who litter in an effort to help make Rockland County’s roadways cleaner. The program provides every individual with an opportunity to be an active participant in reducing litter.

If you see someone littering from their car, or trash blowing out from the back of a truck, the Rockland County Sheriff’s Office will send the vehicle owner a warning letter based on your report to Keep Rockland Beautiful.

To report a litterbug, visit: Keep Rockland Beautiful Report-A-Litterbug Program

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Government

Senate Approves Bill Expanding SPCA Fingerprinting Access

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4 days ago

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May 7, 2026

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A bipartisan bill sponsored by Pete Harckham aimed at helping SPCAs across New York more effectively investigate and prosecute animal cruelty cases has passed the State Senate unanimously.

The legislation, S.1664, would authorize SPCA officers statewide to access the same live scan fingerprinting system currently used by law enforcement agencies following an arrest. Supporters say the measure would streamline arrest processing, improve officer efficiency, and help prevent suspects from avoiding prosecution.

At present, many SPCA officers in New York must rely on outside law enforcement agencies to process fingerprints after making an arrest, often causing delays.

“SPCA officers must have the tools and resources they need to protect defenseless animals from cruelty and neglect and the public at large from serial abusers,” Harckham said in a statement. “With access to live scan fingerprinting, officers can quickly determine whether a suspect has a history of abuse or is wanted for other crimes.”

Harckham said the legislation was inspired by conversations with officers from the Putnam County SPCA, who reported that delays in fingerprint processing sometimes allowed suspects with outstanding warrants to remain free longer than necessary.

Chief Ken Ross of the Putnam County SPCA praised the bill’s passage, noting the connection between animal cruelty and other violent crimes.

“Animal cruelty crimes are especially disturbing because they target the most vulnerable,” Ross said. “These offenses are often linked to other forms of violence, including child abuse and domestic violence.”

According to supporters of the legislation, animal cruelty cases have increased across New York since the COVID-19 pandemic. SPCAs cite rising living costs, behavioral health challenges, and the expiration of eviction protections as contributing factors.

Data from Humane Society International indicates that 85% of individuals arrested for animal cruelty have prior arrests, many involving felony offenses. The organization also reports significant overlap between domestic violence and animal abuse cases.

If enacted into law, the bill would expand investigative capabilities for SPCAs statewide and strengthen coordination between animal welfare agencies and law enforcement officials.

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