This year’s Independence Day carries special meaning as our nation prepares to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026.

As we approach this historic milestone, Rockland County has produced an incredible four-part Rev250 series that explores our community’s Revolutionary War history. From one of the greatest acts of treason in American history to the Storming of Stony Point, the events that unfolded in our own backyard read like a spy novel. Applause to the Economic Development & Tourism Department for creating this outstanding snapshot of Rockland’s rich history.

We encourage everyone to watch the four-part series on the Rockland County YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/@RocklandGov.

The Fourth of July marks the moment our Founding Fathers boldly proclaimed a new nation, setting in motion a story of courage, sacrifice, and resilience.

As we honor 250 years of American independence, we are reminded that these ideals have endured because countless patriots have stood ready to defend them.

For too many who return home, however, especially our older veterans, navigating the VA system can be overwhelming. In Rockland County, we are committed to ensuring that no veteran has to face those challenges alone.

Our Veterans Service Agency (VSA) continues to provide critical support to the more than 9,000 veterans who call Rockland County home.

The VSA offers benefits counseling, claims preparation and follow-up, appeals assistance, employment resources, and guidance on navigating the VA healthcare system, including information about available Urgent Care and Community Care providers. These services help ensure our veterans receive the care, benefits, and support they have earned through their service.

As we commemorate this Independence Day and look ahead to America’s 250th anniversary, let us renew our commitment to those who have safeguarded our freedoms for nearly two and a half centuries.

If you or someone you know is a veteran in need of assistance, please reach out. Visit RocklandCountyNY.gov or call (845) 638-5244 to connect with our Veterans Service Agency.

Fresh, locally grown food is back in season as farmers’ markets and farm stands across Rockland County welcome shoppers for another year.

Residents can find a variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables, along with local honey, fresh eggs, flowers, baked goods, jams, and handcrafted products while supporting local farms and small businesses.

Shopping at local markets not only provides access to fresh, nutritious foods but also helps strengthen the local economy and supports the farmers who grow food throughout the region.

Whether you’re looking for freshly picked produce, homemade treats, or unique local goods, Rockland County’s farmers’ markets and farm stands offer something for everyone throughout the growing season.

Bring a reusable shopping bag when you visit farmers’ markets.  Here is a list of farmers’ markets and farm stands in Rockland County:

Cropsey Community Farm Stand:

• Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays: 10 am – 3 pm and Thursdays: 10 am – 5 pm
• Open now through November 28^th
• Location: 220 South Little Tor Road, New City
• Bus Routes: TOR 91, Clarkstown Mini Trans Route B
• Accepts: FMNP and FCC

Haverstraw Perez Farm Stand:

• Sundays: 9 am – 2 pm
• Open now through October 25^th
• Location: Municipal Parking Lot, 40 New Main Street, Haverstraw
• Bus Routes: TOR 91,Coach USA 11A
• Accepts: FMNP and FCC

Monsey Perez Farm Stand:

• Sundays: 10 am – 3 pm
• Open now through November 8^th
• Location: Front Lawn at 40 Robert Pitt Drive, Monsey
• Bus Routes: TOR 59, Loop 1 and 2, Hudson Link H03
• Accepts: FMNP, SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) (EBT), and FCC

Nyack Farmers’ Market:

• Thursdays: 8 am – 2 pm year-round
• Location: Municipal Parking Lot, Main Street, Nyack (free parking in selected spots until 2 pm)
• Bus Routes: TOR 59, 91, 92, Coach USA 9 and 9A, Hudson Link H07, H05
• Accepts: FMNP, FCC, SNAP/EBT, debit, and credit cards

Pearl River Farmers’ Market:

• Saturdays: 10 am – 2 pm
• Open now through November 21st
• Location: 58 East Central Avenue, Pearl River
• Bus Routes: TOR 93
• Some vendors accept SNAP/EBT and FCC

Piermont Farmers’ Market:

• Sundays: 10 am – 3 pm, year-round
• Location: 25 Flywheel Park, Piermont
• Bus Routes: Coach USA 9A
• Some vendors accept SNAP/EBT and FCC

Spring Valley J&D Perez Farm Stand:

• Wednesdays: 10 am – 3 pm
• Open now through October 28^th
• Location: Finkelstein Memorial Library, 24 Chestnut Street, Spring Valley
• Bus Route: TOR 59
• Accepts: FMNP and FCC

Several markets and farm stands in Rockland County accept food assistance benefits, including Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) checks, SNAP/EBT, and FreshConnect Checks (FCC). These programs help make fresh, healthy food more affordable for local families, older adults, and veterans. The RCDOH encourages residents to learn more about nutrition assistance programs available at participating markets.

The Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) provides checks to eligible women, infants, and children through the WIC program. The Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) offers coupons for eligible low-income adults aged 60 and older living in NYS. SNAP/EBT benefits can also be used at select markets to help families buy healthy food.

FreshConnect Program Checks (FCC) are available to active-duty military members, veterans, and eligible family members to buy fresh produce and other food items at participating farmers’ markets across NYS.

For more information on Rockland County Farmers’ Markets and available food assistance programs, visit the Rockland County Department of Health.