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“We Are One” By County Executive Ed Day

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“We Are One” By County Executive Ed Day

Earlier this week our community was targeted with robocalls and flyers inviting residents to a “highly informative night of science and discussion.” Outsiders from across the country, including discredited former British doctor Andrew Wakefield who was teleconferenced in, came here to drive a wedge into the heart of our community; spreading misinformation, debunked “science” and outright lies.

The type of propaganda they spread is a danger to the health and safety of children within our community and around the world. They came here in an attempt to undermine our success; more than 20,500 MMR vaccinations given in Rockland since October 2018; strong advocacy to remove all non-medical exemptions to vaccination state-wide. They are scared because our message that the MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccine is safe and effective has been heard loud and clear in our county, our state and even nationally.

The combined outreach and education efforts undertaken by the Rockland County Department of Health, local officials and religious leaders have had a significant effect and show that this anti-vaccination message is not welcome here. Further, when we first heard about this event, it was from people in our community who said “NO! We will not allow these lies to be peddled here. We will not allow anyone else to fall victim to these predators.” The calls, text messages and emails that followed spread quickly across our county.

I heard from Town Supervisors, Village Mayors, Doctors, Rabbis and community activists that they were telling everyone they knew not to attend this event. While, unfortunately, hundreds did go to this mis-“informative night” many were bused in from places like Williamsburg, Brooklyn and Lakewood, New Jersey. Others locally went to protest and to warn their neighbors that these anti-vaccination outsiders were not to be believed. I am proud of every Rocklander who denounced this night and called it what it really was; an attempt by these anti-vaxxers to attack our right of self-determination.

We truly are making progress. Not only has more than 6% of Rockland’s population been vaccinated but many more people now understand the importance of vaccination and how lifesaving vaccines are. I urge our residents to continue to ignore these attempts to exploit our differences and ask that they stand together as one Rockland in defense and support of our community. We, not these fringe elements, will determine our future by charting a course designed to ensure the health of each and every Rocklander. I will expend every ounce of my energy to make that happen.

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We’re Back: A Note to Our Readers After Website Updates

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To our readers, we apologize for our recent absence.

Our website underwent construction and technical updates, which temporarily prevented us from publishing and, unfortunately, from notifying our readers about the work ahead of time. We understand that the lack of communication may have been confusing, and we’re sorry for the inconvenience.

The good news is that we’re back online. Our team has completed the necessary work, and this page is once again available to our readers.

We appreciate your patience and understanding while we worked behind the scenes. Thank you for continuing to visit, read, and support our website.

Welcome back — and thank you for being here.

— The Editorial Team

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All American Pet Day Honors Beloved Pets and Shelter Animals Waiting for Homes

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A day to honor beloved pets while remembering the animals still waiting for homes like “Cookie”. Would someone please adopt her!

Pets have a special way of becoming part of the family. They greet us at the door, offer comfort on difficult days, bring joy through simple moments and remind us of the importance of kindness and companionship.

Today, on All American Pet Day, pet owners across the country are celebrating the dogs, cats and other animals that have become cherished members of their households. The observance is also an opportunity to recognize the countless animals in shelters that are still waiting for a place to call home.

Every year, shelters and rescue organizations care for animals in need of safety, medical attention and a second chance. Many of these pets are loving, loyal companions who simply have not yet found the right family. Some have been overlooked because of their age, size, breed, or because they may need extra patience and understanding after difficult experiences.

Shelter workers and volunteers often say that one of the most rewarding moments is watching an animal who has spent months or even years waiting finally walk out the door with a new family.

Adopting a pet is a commitment, but for those who are ready, it can be life-changing for both the animal and the adopter. Many shelters also offer opportunities to foster, volunteer, donate supplies or simply share information about animals looking for homes.

For those who already have pets, All American Pet Day is a reminder to celebrate the bond they share. A walk around the neighborhood, extra playtime, a favorite treat or a visit to the veterinarian are all ways to show appreciation for the animals who give so much unconditional love.

And for those considering adding a pet to their family, local shelters are filled with animals waiting for someone to see their potential.

Whether they have been with us for years or are still waiting behind a kennel door, every pet deserves compassion, care and a chance to be loved.

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