Rockland News - It's Local that Matters NY – The long-awaited roundabout at the bustling intersection of Suffern Lane and Letchworth Village Road is officially open for vehicular traffic—well While North Rockland residents can finally test their skills in navigating the circular wonder ongoing construction and temporary traffic patterns are keeping things a little spicier than anticipated the Haverstraw Police Department announced the opening of the roundabout Suffern Lane…and most importantly – people’s undivided attention for the past 4 months The Town of Haverstraw today revealed the following detailed points of detail for residents to further critique on the North Rockland Community Facebook Group: the consensus on social media has been anything but partial the roundabout has already sparked a range of commentary: who has experienced roundabout life in Indiana the secret to embracing it is all in the adjustment: “At first I was scared to approach these when we moved 2 years ago but now I see it makes so much sense and keeps things moving Rocky Alexander provided the following Rock Report: “The wheels on the bus go round and round round and round… the wipers on the bus go… back to you in the studio!” “I just completed my first roundabout commonly known as “firetrucks” tested out the newly minted road on Monday November 18th several golfers were also seen hiking back and forth from Rotella Golf Course to Patriot Hills indicating that they were looking forward to using this new fangled road configuration – a circle – to bridge the divides that separate us in North Rockland We commend all those who were involved in this detailed engineering process Now back to your actual news…here Filed Under: News, Town of Haverstraw Copyright © 2025 · RockWeb Systems Inc. · All rights reserved. · Privacy Policy This website is using a security service to protect itself from online attacks The action you just performed triggered the security solution There are several actions that could trigger this block including submitting a certain word or phrase You can email the site owner to let them know you were blocked Please include what you were doing when this page came up and the Cloudflare Ray ID found at the bottom of this page Get important news about your town as it happens Get the top stories from across our network Are you sure you want to unsubscribe from daily updates A 26-year-old New York man and his passenger had to be rescued after crashing his car down an embankment on the Palisades Interstate Parkway—only to be charged with DWI after showing signs of impairment New York State Police troopers from Haverstraw responded to a one-car crash on the northbound Palisades Interstate Parkway between exits 13 and 14 The investigation found that Steven Beleno lost control of his 2018 Toyota after another vehicle allegedly cut him off causing him to veer off the road and down a steep embankment Beleno and a passenger were left stranded at the bottom of the embankment unable to climb back up due to icy conditions Assistance was required from the Thiells Fire Department who deployed 250 feet of 2 ½-inch hose as a rescue line to reach the victims and Thiells Fire Department worked together to safely rescue both patients Additional units from Hillcrest Fire Department and the Rockland County Technical Rescue Team were initially dispatched but were canceled en route Beleno was evaluated by EMS and transported to Nyack Hospital where police said he displayed signs of impairment He was subsequently arrested for Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) but refused to provide a blood alcohol content (BAC) sample Beleno was turned over to Nyack Hospital for medical care and will be required to report to the State Police Haverstraw barracks at a later date for processing NY – North Rockland will host a special event to honor the remarkable work of Canine Companions as they celebrate their 50th anniversary while also highlighting the impact of Maybie scheduled to coincide with National Puppy Day on March 23 and National Pet Month in May will raise awareness about the invaluable role of service dogs in supporting mental health and well-being The celebration will feature a screening of the Netflix documentary Inside the Mind of a Canine Companion offering a behind-the-scenes look at the rigorous training and dedication required to prepare these highly skilled service dogs Attendees will also enjoy live demonstrations and engaging activities showcasing the bond between humans and facility dogs and therapeutic support to students and staff at Fieldstone Middle School for the past three years After completing two years of intensive training with Canine Companions in Medford she has become an integral part of the school’s special education and therapeutic support programs Maybie helps students struggling with school avoidance who is passionate about fostering meaningful relationships with students credits Maybie’s calming presence with creating a positive supportive environment throughout the school community The event also aligns with National Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day recognizing the contributions of women throughout history and the profound impact that both human and canine companions have in shaping lives North Rockland continues to lead in innovative mental health initiatives and this event underscores the district’s commitment to student well-being By celebrating Maybie’s work and Canine Companions’ half-century of service the event will shine a light on how facility dogs can transform lives Filed Under: Community, News, Thiells, Town of Haverstraw Kenny Bermudez is remembered by the North Rockland community as bubbly, kind and dedicated in his service to others "That kid healed this family like you wouldn't believe." "I was able to move on from the death of my daughter solely because of Kenny," Perez said "When I got pregnant [the first three times] you have a baby and then you raise them until they move out.'" But Bernadette said that after Kenny was born her family didn't take a single part of his life for granted "His brothers and I had such a special bond with Kenny," she said Perez said Kenny was at his grandmother's house while his mother was working an extra shift at her job with the Hudson Valley Developmental Disabilities Services Office in Westchester She said she was working extra hours to save money for Bermudez and his friends to see Metallica for his 15th birthday "He told me he was going to go upstairs and play video games and get ready for school the next day and then he just leaned forward and fell on his back right in front of me," said Perez Perez said she and paramedics tried to save Bermudez's life with chest compressions Related story: Rockland remembers 15-year-old aspiring firefighter Kenny Bermudez Bermudez was 'just a good soul'An autopsy discovered he had a rare congenital heart defect called hypoplastic coronary artery disease, in which the National Institute of Health says "one or more of the major arteries are underdeveloped resulting in inadequate blood supply to the heart muscle." Perez says she wants to raise awareness for heart defects like this one and fight for better diagnoses of these conditions "He never even had an opportunity to be told he had an issue or to correct it," she said Perez says she and her three sons are "destroyed" by the loss of her youngest child who she says had infinite humor and an innocence to life that was endearing "I was pulling out of my driveway one day and one of the neighbor’s kids was on the roof," she said recalling one of her favorite stories from his childhood warned the child to be careful and not to fall you just knew you were around someone special." Bermudez was a freshman at North Rockland High School and a member of the Rockland County Fire Explorer Post 44 Perez said he wanted to follow in his older brother Danny's footsteps who is currently a firefighter in North Carolina Rockland County Fire and Emergency Services said he exhibited a "real passion" for serving his community and his unwavering commitment to serving his community were evident in all that he did," Rockland County Fire and Emergency Services posted to social media Tuesday Perez said the Thiells Fire Department honored Bermudez and made him an honorary firefighter after his death Perez said other members of the North Rockland community "You know word spreads fast in high school and all words about Kenny were completely positive.. Everyone I’ve talked to has nothing bad to say about him and I think that speaks volumes about his character.” Perez said she has been blown away by the response from the community over her son's death "I always taught my kids that when you’re born "The reputation that follows that name is upon your actions "My son was amazing and I will forever be grateful to have the honor and privilege to be his mom," she said "I am very grateful that I was there for his first breath and I was there for his last breath," Perez said It’s through his grace that I'm being carried but he didn’t have to take my son." Holt Funeral Home at 50 New Main Street in Haverstraw on Friday NY – Nearby residents of an area of North Rockland have raised significant frustrations over a county construction project that has disrupted their daily lives since it began in June taking place on Suffern Lane and Hammond Road in Thiells aims to improve traffic flow but has sparked frustrations among those living nearby and difficulties in accessing their properties Some residents also fear that the vibrations from the heavy machinery could lead to structural damage to their homes Joyce Wilamo, a resident directly affected by the construction, expressed her frustration to News 12 with the lack of communication and responsiveness from the county But all of these issues should’ve been addressed prior to breaking ground.” Wilamo urged local leaders to take the concerns of the residents seriously demanding clear answers and timely solutions “You need to provide us with answers And you need to be more considerate with us,” she added a Rockland County spokeswoman released a statement emphasizing the importance of the project “We respect and sympathize with the concerns being raised by neighbors which our Highway Department has and continues to meet with to formulate solutions This project is necessary to alleviate congestion on that roadway which will improve traffic safety and air quality for residents and is widely supported by the local community We plead for patience as this short-term inconvenience will have a long-term benefit to all in that area.” The construction is expected to be completed by this fall, with road striping scheduled to take place once the school year ends HAVERSTRAW — The Thiells Fire Department has received voter approval for a $24 million firehouse Thiells-Roseville Fire District taxpayers voted 236 to 25 on Tuesday to approve the bond to finance the purchase of 4.8 acres and construct the firehouse The department has outgrown its main firehouse along Route 202 District commissioners have worked since 2018 on a new facility “We are extremely grateful to everyone who voted and to the community for their continued support,” Commissioner Robert Masiello said “Moving forward with the construction of a new main station will ensure that we provide our firefighters with a safe and functional fire station where they can properly train and effectively respond to the growing needs of our community.” has said the current firehouse on Route 202 doesn't meet state codes and is a tight squeeze for the department's trucks and apparatus Thiells firehouse plan: $24 million firehouse for Thiells-Roseville to be discussed at public meeting Masiello has said firefighters don their gear sitting on the bumpers of the idling trucks parked four feet apart The district's plans place the cost of the property at $3.25 million located near the current firehouse on Route 202 is owned by the estate of the late Rockland Medical Examiner Dr The district's counsel will be closing on the sale and has worked with Thomas Zugibe a former Rockland district attorney and now a Supreme Court justice The property is some 500 yards from the current Route 202 site which is near the Haverstraw Town police station The district's schematics call for a two-story firehouse of 23,000 square feet with five bays for the department's trucks Officials said the look will follow Haverstraw's history of brick manufacturing and the Palisades Interstate Parkway Masiello estimated the bond payoff would be cost-effective for the 30-year bond for the district's 2,229 homes and 70% cost for the district businesses He said the average homeowner pays $185 per year The commissioners took $700,000 from the district's reserve fund of tax dollars and hope to sell the current firehouse property for $1.5 million Thiells is one of 26 volunteer departments in Rockland The department operates sub-stations on Hammond Road near North Rockland High School and on Beach Road near the Bowline Power plant The department has a 14-member dive team including staff that covers — one of three with Piermont and Stony Point — from bridge to bridge on the Hudson River Steve Lieberman covers government, breaking news, courts, police, and investigations. Reach him at slieberm@lohud.com Twitter: @lohudlegal Read more articles and bio Our local coverage is only possible with support from our readers Lynch's Restaurant has long been a Rockland institution. It was in Stony Point for 11 years and prior to that, in Tomkins Cove for 24. Now, it has a new home — and a slight change to its name. Lynch's on the Green opens Feb 18 in Thiells where Sonoma Grille had previously been perched on a grassy knoll at the Phillip J who long ago started the restaurant with his father but now runs it with his wife said he had his eye on the space for decades "When I opened my first restaurant in 1982 "I always loved the location and felt one day it would be mine said he was drawn to the sunniness of his new spot plus the fact that it overlooks the golf course has parking (something his other restaurant lacked) open up the bar to make it larger and more welcoming and added a newly built private dining room for 48 adjacent to it which he said is "pretty crazy" to accomplish Dining deals: In Yonkers, Nyack Toast: Beyond avocado in Westchester, Rockland Insider news: Sign up for the free lohudfood newsletter How 'Lynch's Serves' beganCommunity is a word that's used a lot here For those who grew up in the area and know Lynch's The story of how the "Lynch's Serves" program came about is written on the back of each menu Lynch was down on his luck and would try to pay his sister "I'd write a check to them and they'd rip it up," he said "I hoped one day that I'd be able to return the favor and somehow repay them." even at a time when his own restaurant was failing "I figured if I'm going to lose the restaurant then at least let people say nice things about us," he said with his restaurant proving successful not just for its food but for its mission Lynch's motto ever since has been "We don't just serve food Lynch guestimates he's given out about 1,000 free meals stated on the menu (along with his personal cell phone) invites diners to recommend anyone struggling A letter is then sent out to that person letting them know a free meal is avalable (he'll also deliver) The person who recommends someone is never named "I always say they come from the community," said Lynch "So many people want to divide us these days namely Helen Hayes Hospital in West Haverstraw Good Samaritan in Suffern and Montefiore Nyack Hospital diners can expect the same American-focused menu albeit with a few new specials such as bacon-wrapped shrimp there are also Irish-leaning entrees such as Guiness beer-battered fish The restaurant is also popular for its housemade soups and burgers under the direction of Head Chef Juan Magana in varieties such as Mexican (with jack cheese bacon and a fried egg) and Latino (with guacamole Said Lynch of his menu: "We believe if it's not broken There's also plenty of room for private parties the bar area seats 44 and the outdoor patio has a capacity for 48 Lynch points out how crazy it is that he opened his first restaurant at age 24 Address: 200 Thiells Mount Ivy Road, Thiells, 845-553-9300, lynchsny.com Hours will be extended in March to seven days a week serving breakfast Good to know: A higher end wine list is coming soon Jeanne Muchnick covers food and dining. Click here for her most recent articles and follow her latest dining adventures on Instagram @lohud_food or via the lohudfood newsletter THIELLS − Firefighters put on their gear at times as gas fumes spew from idling trucks Those trucks are packed feet apart in bays The Thiells Fire Department has outgrown its main firehouse along Route 202 as the department has grown with the community over the decades As a result, a larger, more modern firehouse is being planned. The Thiells-Roseville Fire District commissioners will provide details and answer questions at 7:30 p.m The commissioners have scheduled a public vote for April 30 to ask residents to approve a $24 million bond for the purchase of land and construction of the firehouse "Guys don their gear sitting on the bumpers of the idling trucks," said Commissioner Robert Masiello who chairs the committee overseeing the new firehouse He's also a North Rockland Board of Education member "They are getting dressed breathing in fumes," he said "The state code will eventually mandate separate dressing rooms Masiello said the department inadvertently backs up traffic for a mile when backing trucks into the firehouse which was built in 1960 with two bays on a half-acre The department owns five trucks and a marine boat for its diving team A 1,000-square-foot attic is used for storage and members use a ladder over the kitchen area which he said violates the code.Monday's presentation will include the proposed location Bond issue costs for land and constructionThe fire district's bond issue would finance purchasing 4.8 acres some 500 yards from the current Route 202 site The property would cost $3.25 million and is owned by the estate of the late Rockland Medical Examiner Dr "Tom Zugibe wants the legacy of the family's property to be part of the fire district." The plans call for a two-story firehouse of 23,000 square feet The look will follow Haverstraw's history of brick manufacturing and the Palisades Interstate Parkway The building will have five bays for trucks Masiello said the fire district's plan is modest and will not be a "Taj Mahal." "We're financially conservative," Masiello said the fire commissioners have been exploring options to purchase property for a state-of-the-art fire station Their focus has been on building a facility that would meet responses to increasing emergency calls and improve the safety and security of firefighters the proposed firehouse would increase space to house the existing and future fleet of apparatus and ensure the fire station complies with all safety codes and protocols mandated by law The district had three earlier options that never came to pass Building upward on the current firehouse was not possible since the building is under high-powered electrical wires He said Haverstraw officials gave the district four acres near the high school but the land had a stream Discussions with the Palisades Interstate Parks Commission would have involved negotiations with New Jersey The Thiells-Roseville Fire District encompasses the Thiells Fire Department and David B The district operates on a $1.3 million budget approved by voters The department has a 14-member dive team including staff that covers — one of three with Piermont and Stony Point - from bridge to bridge on the Hudson River The district also serves as a Community Crisis Center and provides other emergency response services At a time when departments need volunteers Masiello said the district isn't facing major problems The district's fire prevention programs at schools are ripe recruitment grounds "We're one of the few districts that doesn't have problems with retention and recruitment," Masiello said "We get a lot of high-schoolers who stay or come back." THIELLS − The Town of Haverstraw has put forth a settlement deal in a controversial land-use case by an Orthodox Jewish congregation that has the town and three Planning Board members facing a federal civil rights lawsuit A Stipulation of Agreement was drawn up for the U.S District Court for the Southern District of New York K'hal Bnei Torah of Mount Ivy had been before land-use boards since 2021 seeking permission to convert a single-family home at 62 Riverglen in Thiells into a synagogue The town Planning Board voted in August to deny approval of the project Power of RLUIPA: Rejected Haverstraw synagogue cites fed law, while neighbors challenge it The congregation has a federal lawsuit against the town Planning Board and three members of the panel who voted "no," Glenn Widmer Town Supervisor Howard Phillips said that on advice of counsel he would decline comment until Monday's meeting a professor at George Washington University Law School who specializes in religion and law reviewed federal court filings and found the town could face hurdles defending itself "There is no rational basis for the ‘no’ vote," he said in a recent interview with the USA Today Network New York "The claims are inconsistent with the existing findings and approvals that were made." The request went through rounds of heating public meetings − including one where a neighbor said he would "of course" back up his vehicle over Orthodox Jewish children if he was to run over them The antisemitic comments during an August 2021 meeting brought national condemnation with a pledge by the New York State Attorney General to help with any investigation into criminal charges the Planning Board voted 3-2 to deny final approval town land-use attorney Christie Addona sat quietly The resolution she had read before the vote referenced the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act seven times in explaining why the board would vote to approve the plan The controversial federal law prohibits local land-use rules that impose a "substantial burden" on the religious exercise of a person or religious assembly or institution A federal civil rights challenge by the congregation cited RLUIPA as well as state land-use laws that protect religious expression What's in the dealA Stipulation of Settlement was drafted for the U.S District Court of the Southern District of New York As part of the deal to get the Planning Board's OK for the project the synagogue plan would undergo slight alterations and the town would cover the Orthodox Jewish congregation's legal fees Part of the agreement would have the synagogue's upper level slightly reduced and a other modifications and the Planning Board would issue its approval The town would pay $235,000 for legal fees incurred by the congregation William Stein would represent the town as its attorney and the deal would end the congregation's legal action Neighbors have also filed a federal lawsuit against the congregation Meeting on MondayA joint meeting of the boards takes place at 7 p.m A notice and agenda were posted Thursday around 5 p.m The agenda of both the planning and town boards for the special meeting contained just three items: 1 The Pledge of Allegiance; a roll call; and "Resolution authoring settlement of the lawsuit brought by K'Hal Bnei Torah of Mount Ivy against the town of Haverstraw et al Nancy Cutler writes about People & Policy. Follow her on Twitter at @nancyrockland Click here for her latest stories This work, Lt. Col. Steven Perry, a Thiells, Rockland County resident, takes command of Kingston-based National Guard Battalion, by Eric Durr, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright Palisades Mall Is Hosting The Rockland Arts Festival February 9th Don’t Miss: “Steel Magnolias” A Story Of Strength Resilience And Friendship February 7th “The Death Of King Shotaway” A True Story In Celebration Of Black History Month February 1st At Harmony Hall-Jacob Sloat House “Steel Magnolias” A Story Of Strength Resilience And Friendship “Significant Other” A Funny Bittersweet Rom-Com At The Elmwood Playhouse Nyack January 17th – February 8th Clarkstown High School Seniors Celebrate College Decisions on 2025 Decision Day Lakewood Students Walk the Runway for a Greener Planet CBS Sports Reporter and Clarkstown North Alum Tracy Wolfson Visits Alma Mater Give Back – Donate Gently Used Items and Help Reach 1,000 Bags for a Great Cause A Message From “Dom Togo” New City No One Should Go Hungry – We’re Here to Help Nyack Chamber of Commerce Presents Spring Fest Street Fair April 13th Happy National Puppy Day Shower Your Furry Friend with Love and Consider Adoption American Cancer Society Relay For Life Rockland County Dominican University April 11th Bold Rock Your Socks for World Down Syndrome Day March 21st Rockland Community College Your Gateway to a Career in Construction March 27th Free Breast Cancer Screening Montefiore Nyack Hospital May 9th Stay Cool This Summer with HEAP Cooling Assistance – Apply Today Rockland County Legislators Approve Firefighters’ Memorial George Hoehmann Shares Update: West Nyack Road Temporarily Reopened as Project Nears Next Phase PHOTOS: Rockland County Executive Ed Day Hosts Fundraiser Announces Re-Election Bid to Enthusiastic Supporters Clarkstown Supervisor George Hoehmann Announced His Re-Election Campaign New City Attorney Nabeela McLeod Announces Candidacy for Rockland County Family Court Judge Senator Bill Weber Sworn in for a Second Term New City Attorney Nabeela McLeod To Run For Rockland County Family Court Savor the Flavor: Nyack Restaurant Week Returns April 23 – May 1 Turiello’s in Nyack is Celebrating 45 Years in Business Supervisor George Hoehmann Talks Construction At New Site For “Chick-fil-A” In Nanuet Down to Earth Living Is Offering Free Workshops To Get Your Garden Ready For Spring Down To Earth Living The Many Benefits of Indoor Plants for Health Don’t Miss: North Rockland Verse The Harlem Wizards Charity Game May 8th Haverstraw Police Join Forces with Community for Annual Sports and Law Enforcement Day Officer Genito and The Ramapo Police Department Were Honored for Excellence in Impaired Driving Prevention Car Crashes Into Webster Bank in Nanuet for Second Time in Recent Months; No Injuries Reported Rockland County Sheriff’s Marine Unit Upgrades Fleet with New High-Tech Patrol Boat Rockland County Sheriff’s Office and Consumer Protection Joint Investigation Leads to Arrest in Fraud Case Haverstraw Police Department Arrests Pomona Man on Weapon and Drug Charges Stony Point Police Department Needs Your Help in Identifying This Individual Rockland County Teams with NYS Police to Take Down Online Child Traffickers in Bold Operation RCDAO Arrest a New City Man for Possessing a Ghost Gun and High-Capacity Magazines More Than a Game: North Rockland Lacrosse Stands for Mental Health May 3rd Tommy Linehan Makes History with 300th Point Becomes Tappan Zee Lacrosse’s All-Time Leading Scorer Suffern High School Hockey Team Are New York State Champions North Rockland Varsity Girls Bowling Team Capture The Division 1 Championship with Thrilling Final Victory Sacred Heart CYO Girls Basketball Team Wins Rockland County CYO Championship NY – The Town of Haverstraw Detective Bureau concluded its investigation into the fatal hit and run motor vehicle accident that occurred on Thiells Mt Ivy Road during the early morning hours of January 26 It was concluded that the victim was struck by 2 vehicles One vehicle stopped at the scene and called 911 reporting the incident and requested medical personnel to the scene The other vehicle fled that scene southbound on Thiells Mt Ivy Road The investigation was able to identify the second vehicle by specific vehicle parts recovered at the scene and the driver was identified as Rosana PelaezDipaolo 25 years old of Pomona PelaezDipaolo was arraigned on the below listed charges in the Town of Haverstraw Justice Court and Released on her own Recognizance Ramapo PD Make 5 Alcohol Related Arrests Over Super Bowl Weekend NYS Police Investigating Crash That Resulted in Two Fatalities on Route 6 in the Town of Woodbury NY — Authorities in Rockland County have arrested a Nyack resident in connection with the use of a fake home improvement license following a joint investigation by the Sheriff’s Office and the County Department of Consumer Protection faces felony charges of Second-Degree Forgery and Second-Degree Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument Investigators allege that Kolarz created and attempted to use a counterfeit Rockland County Home Improvement License to fraudulently secure financing for a construction project The forged document came to light thanks to a coordinated effort by the Sheriff’s Bureau of Criminal Investigation and Consumer Protection investigators He is scheduled to appear in court again on May 12 Rockland County Executive Ed Day praised the collaboration between agencies “This joint effort is a prime example of how working together keeps Rockland safe It sends a strong message: fraud will not be tolerated.” emphasizing the importance of interagency cooperation in protecting residents from scams “We’re committed to pursuing those who attempt to take advantage of our community,” he said Consumer Protection Director Kimberly Von Ronn added that the misuse of official county documents is a serious matter “Let this serve as a warning—we will take action to protect families and businesses from fraud.” Volunteer Firefighters Save New City Home from Fire on Scott Drive NY – Leo Laders American Legion in Thiells will be hosting a “Breakfast with the Easter Bunny” event on March 24th They have the a great Easter Bunny and this an awesome community Each child will receive a chocolate Easter bunny and have the ability to take a photo with the Bunny The event will take place at 130 American Legion Way in Thiells Please see the flyer for additional details and you can call 845 642-6292 for reservations Clarkstown PD Holding “Coffee with a Cop” February 28th at David’s Bagels in Valley Cottage Blood Drive on February 22nd in Honor of Suffern HS Grad Madie Nicpon April 13th rain or shine from 10am to 5pm on Main Street and Broadway in Downtown Nyack and hundreds of vendors offering unique crafts Families and fun-seekers shouldn’t miss this special event featuring 200 vendors with something for everyone Parking is free throughout the village on Sundays, both on the street and in our five municipal parking lots. Directions to Nyack and parking info are available on the Visit Nyack webpage it’s a special day for dog lovers to celebrate the unconditional love of puppies and admire the adorable little furballs that bring so much joy into the world the day also aims to raise awareness about puppy mills and encourage potential pet owners to consider adopting instead of buying                        FROM PUPPY TO FULL GROWN The latest season of the "90 Day Fiancé" spin-off "90 Day Fiancé: Before the 90 Days" features a local romantic hopeful.  said he's been single for much of his life and turned to dating apps hoping to find his match. He met 24-year-old Ximena online "I was in shock at first (when I found out I was on the show) and did not think it was real," Berkowitz said I was excited as this can be a start of something good I was nervous about telling my story and my life because the entire world will know about my life and privacy .. that will be hard when I am well known."  TLC's "90 Day Fiance" franchise is a reality series that follows couples who met online as they navigate their relationship The twist? One partner lives in the United States while the other lives in another country they have 90 days to get married and secure a visa.    Business: The What's Going There Newsletter for latest openings, closings  Dining: Westchester chef featured in 2 new Food Network shows Entertainment: In honor of the New Year, these are the best beginnings ever Berkowitz travels from his home in Thiells to Colombia to finally meet Ximena face-to-face hoping to propose and bring her to the United States It was great seeing Colombia as a country," Berkowitz said "It was very beautiful and definitely a place to visit; I know some great spots .. The people are very friendly and hard-working It was incredible seeing Ximena in person and she was everything I expected and more."  Does it all work out for the would-be couple Viewers will have to tune in to see how Berkowitz's trip to Colombia unfolds and how his relationship with Ximena goes.  According to TLC, "Ximena speaks no English and Mike speaks only a tiny bit of Spanish but that hasn’t kept them from falling in love with the help of a translator app."  More love from the Hudson ValleyBerkowitz is not the first lower Hudson Valley resident to be featured on the "Fiance" franchise. In 2020 were the show's first same-sex couple in the series' history.  Matto struggles to tell her parents that she's dating a woman who lives in Australia The two date for three months solely online Matto flies to Australia to see if the relationship has future.  "90 Day Fiancé: Before the 90 Days" airs on TLC at 8 p.m The Journal News/lohud.com community content editor Karen Croke contributed to this report.  Heather Clark covers business openings and closings throughout Westchester, Rockland and Putnam counties. Keep up on the latest comings and goings by joining our Facebook group at What's going there Westchester, Rockland, Putnam A picture is worth a thousand words and these photos tell a dark story Growing up in the Hudson Valley,  many of us have heard of or are familiar with Letchworth Village in Thiells The Rockland County psychiatric hospital was founded in 1911 and closed its doors in 1996. Locals have heard stories of the abuse that is a stain on the hospital's history The LineUp reminds us of the 1972 investigative report by ABC's Geraldo Rivera shining the light on the horrible conditions inadequate funding and physical and mental abuse were allegedly common practices at Letchworth Wikipedia explains that the hospital was built for: the physically and mentally disabled of all ages Letchworth Village at its peak consisted of over 130 buildings spread out over many acres of land Hudson Valley photographer Emma Ferriter recently had an opportunity to visit the abandoned psychiatric hospital and shared her photos and experience with us I was surrounded with beautiful buildings over run with vines It was a cold foggy morning which added to the eerie feel Entering the abandoned buildings filled me with chills and heaviness The photographer, who also runs a website called Decaying Hudson Valley with her husband Shawn said she researched Letchworth before her visit and was aware of the neglect and abuse that went on in the facility At one point Ferriter did say she felt a bit uneasy: In one of the basements of the building next to the morgue I could have sworn I heard a whispering in my ear in this deadly quiet building Accounts of paranormal activity have been reported throughout the years at Letchworth. So much so that Travel Channels Zac Baggins and the Ghost Adventures team made a visit during Season 6.  Sadly, many lives were lost throughout Letchworth's history. So many lives that the Rockland County hospital had a cemetery for unclaimed bodies from 1914 through 1967. In 2007 a large memorial stone was built at the entrance of the cemetery, according to Wikipedia.  Take a look below at Emma Ferriter's chilling photos of what's left in the abandoned Letchworth Village Gallery Credit: Emma Ferriter Gallery Credit: Brandi Hunter Gallery Credit: Karolyi Letchworth Village has been closed since 1996, but the dark and haunted history of the Rockland County psychiatric hospital is still a topic of discussion today.\nRead More The LineUp reminds us of the 1972 investigative report by ABC's Geraldo Rivera shining the light on the horrible conditions The photographer, who also runs a website called Decaying Hudson Valley with her husband Shawn Accounts of paranormal activity have been reported throughout the years at Letchworth. So much so that Travel Channels Zac Baggins and the Ghost Adventures team made a visit during Season 6.  Sadly, many lives were lost throughout Letchworth's history. So many lives that the Rockland County hospital had a cemetery for unclaimed bodies from 1914 through 1967. In 2007 a large memorial stone was built at the entrance of the cemetery, according to Wikipedia.  HAVERSTRAW - Retired Haverstraw Police Officer Gerard Benderoth who was also known as a competitive weight lifter committed suicide Wednesday morning after being pulled over by FBI agents The FBI and Rockland authorities would not say why agents had been trailing Benderoth and had signaled for his Chevrolet Suburban to stop on Rosman Road a public information officer for FBI New York released only this short statement: "While conducting a law enforcement vehicle stop this morning FBI agents and task force officers approached a man who was the only occupant of a stopped vehicle Haverstraw Police Chief Charles Miller later confirmed it was Benderoth who killed himself inside the Suburban SUV He said Benderoth retired about two years ago after 20 years in law enforcement had worked for the NYPD and later the Haverstraw village police before joining the town force when the village force merged with the town department in 2006 Miller said his department was not involved in the car stop or its prelude Benderoth shot himself with a pistol as law enforcement officers approached his vehicle at about 8:20 a.m He referred questions on what led to Benderoth being stopped to the FBI Authorities closed off Rosman Road as forensic teams worked on the scene State Police were assisted by the Rockland County Medical Examiner's Office in the investigation North Rockland School District spokesman Scott Salotto said the district notified parents of the police activity near the school but that Haverstraw police had told the district that the children were not in any danger He released this statement: “My brother played football at North Rockland with Gerard was being mourned by friends and associates both locally and in the weightlifting community where he was known by the nickname the "White Rhino." vied for years to try to win the title "World's Strongest Man." Before crowds of up to 20,000 Benderoth had done everything from carrying 450-pound stones to deadlifting 825-pound cars He went professional in 2004 and at one point was ranked 10th in the country in the "strong man" world qualifying for the 1996 Hudson Valley boxing team at the Empire State Games He was a 1995 New York Golden Gloves 220-pound super heavy weight finalist He was a football standout at North Rockland High School going on to Westchester Community College and Troy State in Alabama Twitter: @lohudlegal A large crowd likely will show up tonight as the Haverstraw town and planning boards hold a joint special meeting. On the agenda: voting on a settlement agreement with K'hal Bnei Torah of Mount Ivy an Orthodox Jewish congregation that filed a federal civil rights suit after its site plan for a new synagogue was unexpectedly rejected We'll be providing live updates on Twitter. Follow @nancyrockland and @lohud for coverage The agreement would approve the congregation's request to convert a house at 62 Riverglen Drive in Thiells into a synagogue The town would also agree to pay some legal fees for the congregation Read our coverage, "Haverstraw to settle suit with Orthodox Jewish congregation over rejected synagogue plan," which outlines the deal here The town Planning Board in August voted 3-2 against granting the final site plan Here's our story, "Synagogue sues Haverstraw after plan rejected; cites religious discrimination, RLUIPA," after the plan's rejection The congregation filed its civil rights suit against the town in U.S District Court for the Southern District of New York in November The congregation was seeking millions in damages and the possibility of punitive damages against the town and the planning board members who voted "no." RLUIPA and antisemitic commentsA key legal argument cited by the congregation: RLUIPA, or the federal Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act of 2000 which protects religious organizations from local land-use regulations being used in exclusionary ways Read our coverage, "Power of RLUIPA: Rejected Haverstraw synagogue cites fed law, while neighbors challenge it," which explains the impact of the federal law, here The court challenge points to antisemitism and cites a 2021 Planning Board public hearing in which a neighbor spewed antisemitic threats including saying he would back over Orthodox Jewish children with his vehicle Read our coverage, "Police weigh hate crime charges in wake of antisemitic comments at Haverstraw meeting," here Longtime Riverglen residents cite traffic and other concerns for their opposition to the plan They say their own requests to alter their properties had long been denied by the town even though the changes had a fraction of the impact of the synagogue plans Read our report, "Longtime Haverstraw residents, Orthodox Jewish neighbors split over synagogue proposal," that focuses on neighbors' views here Supervisor Howard Phillips and representatives of the congregation have so far declined to comment but are expected to participate in tonight's meeting Nancy Cutler writes about People & Policy. Click here for her latest stories. Follow her on Twitter at @nancyrockland THIELLS – A Pomona man who died in a one-car accident about 20 months ago will be remembered in the community with a road named after him the 2-mile long Thiells-Mount Ivy Road will also be known as "Anthony Amoros Way." A blue-colored street name sign will be installed under the existing green one Saturday afternoon Amoros died in January 2013 as a result of severe injuries he suffered in a car crash on Thiells-Mount Ivy Road a 2012 North Rockland High School graduate who turned 18 in October 2012 was on his way to his job as a cashier at Stony Point ShopRite when he lost control of his 2003 Mazda Protege on icy pavement a memorial plaque for Amoros will be dedicated at 1 p.m Rotella Memorial Golf Course on Thiells-Mount Ivy Road Amoros' car crashed just outside of the municipal golf course Al and Ivette Amoros, Anthony's parents, have been looking for ways — from establishing a scholarship in their son's name to organizing petitions to make the road safer — to keep their son's legacy alive Many of Anthony's friends and members of the community stepped in to help Al Amoros said naming the road after his son was important to the family "He did so many things here in this county," Al Amoros said He not only helped young people but also helped senior citizens as well." Anthony Amoros was known for being an independent thinker with a kind heart He was an altar boy at the Marian Shrine in Stony Point he attended Rockland Community College while taking BOCES classes on automotive services Amoros was among a group of the RCC students who helped restore a historic fence on Strawtown Road Amoros worked at ShopRite and saved enough to buy cars and auto parts he bought the bright-yellow Mazda Protege that he was driving at the time of the accident Haverstraw town Supervisor Howard Phillips said upon request from the Amoros family the town approved giving a second name to Thiells Mount-Ivy Road and installing the plaque at the golf course commemorating the young man "Our feelings and sympathies go out to the family," Phillips said "This is a small way that we can help them remember their son and his contribution to our community." Twitter: @LohudAkiko HAVERSTRAW Most everyone agrees that Thiells-Mount Ivy Road has been a problem for decades but a major overhaul of its most dangerous stretch may still be years away It’s a predicament that’s frustrating to Ilan Shulein who for the past decade has been lobbying for safety improvements on the hilly and windy two-lane road with poor sight lines and I don’t say that lightly,” said Shulein The county has received approval to overhaul a small section of the busy road between Rosman Road and Suffern Lane but the project can't advance until $2.5 million in transportation funding It could be years before any construction begins “We’re waiting for the go-ahead," Rockland County Highway Superintendent Charles "Skip" Vezzetti said Even though that part of road is just one-tenth of a mile local residents and officials consider it to be the most dangerous stretch Haverstraw Town Supervisor Howard Phillips said there have been numerous accidents there because the sight distance is limited A Journal News analysis of state crash data which includes accidents that occur on local roads found that the stretch of Thiells-Mount Ivy Road between Rosman Road and Suffern Lane has had 11 crashes over the past three years Seven mainly property-damage-only accidents occurred by the Rosman Road intersection while four — three involving injuries — happened by the corner of Suffern Lane A February 2014 report by county highway engineers called for wider shoulders and regrading the incline. The study, which found the road to be safe overall, came following the death of 18-year-old Anthony Amoros who was involved in a fatal crash on the road It also rallied area residents to put pressure on the county to take action Vezzetti said the county addressed "absolutely everything" in the study including recommendations to remove shrubs and trees to improve sight lines improve drainage to reduce standing water on the road and it examined all of the guiderails But Phillips noted that Thiells-Mount Ivy was built as a country road but now has transformed into a major thoroughfare serving or feeding into neighborhoods you’re not solving the real problem,” said Phillips who raised concerns about the road in the mid-1990s when he served on the Rockland Legislature The northern end of Thiells-Mount Ivy Road by Route 202 has been identified as one of the top 20 roadway segments in New York state with the highest number of crashes, The Journal News reported a few weeks ago Vezzetti noted that the engineer's study found that one of the biggest issues on the road was speeding It determined the average speed in the northerly section was 45 mph on the road About 75 percent of vehicles traveled between 40 and 59 mph "It’s obvious that the greatest problem along there is speeding," Vezzetti said Phillips said the town has increased enforcement on the road but said speeding is "an issue on every single road in Rockland." "That does not eliminate the fact that this road has remained the same for 50 years," he said Shulein said the county should find the money to make the safety upgrades a priority Are we waiting for the next casualty?" he said "It’s just a matter of time before it happens again." Twitter: @ksaeed1 Rockland County Business Journal A developer that is planning to build a 300-unit luxury apartment complex on the former Letchworth Village complex in the Town of Haverstraw says it needs tax breaks and other financial incentives to make its project viable an affiliate of New Jersey-based BNE Real Estate is scheduled to come before the Rockland County Industrial Development Agency on Thursday to seek a green light for a PILOT (payment in lieu of tax) program and other perks for its proposed housing plan at 2 Ridge Road in Thiells The 23-acre parcel sits on a vacant portion of the former Letchworth Village who originally proposed 250 units last year had agreed to buy the town-owned land for $12 million The application submitted to the IDA says BNE is planning on constructing 300 units with a purchase price for the land of $14.4 million The housing project does not include any “affordable” units Estimated rents for two-bedroom apartments the Town of Haverstraw changed its 2006 Urban Renewal Plan and added BNE Acquisitions NJ as a “qualified and eligible sponsor” which gave the Town the authority to enter into a “conditional contract” with BNE to purchase a portion of the Letchworth property for redevelopment For its luxury housing project to be economically feasible the developer is seeking mortgage and sales tax relief as well as a PILOT (payment in lieu of tax) program Developers first go to the IDA to greenlight a project but final approvals for tax breaks rest with town and school taxing authorities a public hearing will be held at the Town of Haverstraw If the incentives are granted by the local town and school district the proposed luxury complex would pay nominal taxes for the first three years on vacant land $385,000 in taxes beginning in years four to five under the PILOT; then increase to $770,000 per year in years six to seven and rise to $1.15 million for years eight to 15 a 169-unit complex of one and two-bedroom units paid about $1.46 million dollars in taxes to the school district a 225-unit garden apartment complex in Pomona paid about $1.05 million in taxes It is widely believed in the real estate field that it is unusual for “luxury” housing developments to receive such incentives The developer is proposing 505,000 square-feet of buildings at an estimated construction cost of $84 million Soft costs and infrastructure work will add another $50 million The developer is asking for relief from mortgage recording tax in the amount of $942,000 and relief from sales tax in the amount of $502,000 the developer is asking to pay $75,000 annually in real estate taxes for the first three years saying the land should be assessed as “vacant.” For the balance of the PILOT (years 4 through15) a “Base Rate” figure of $3,840 per unit would be used to calculate the payments the payment would equal 1/3 of the base rate multiplied by the number of approved units the payment would equal 2/3rd of the base rate multiplied by the number of approved units the payment would equal 100% of the Base Rate multiplied by the number of approved units and would have to be paid whether the project gets built or not the property would be reassessed and taxed based on that assessment the zoning on the parcel had to be changed The original zoning was R-120 (Rural Residential) that only allowed single family homes on 3-acre lots LA-17 allows Luxury Apartment Multi-Family Residences There is no requirement for any affordable units The only mandate requires the developer to provide on-site recreation in the form of at least one of the following: a clubhouse Luxury units in the LA-17 zone are limited to studios family-owned company with more than 60 years of experience in the development and management of high-quality and vastly diversified real estate assets BNE is the developer and operator of the Club and the developer of the Club West at 1000 Murray Court in Pearl River an active adult rental community for residents aged 55 and older with rentals from $2800 to more than $5,000 per month Most of BNE’s development projects are in New Jersey (Featured Image: BNE Project in South Amboy the Thiells FD & West Haverstraw FD responded to a call for a person who had fallen into a boiler who sustained life threatening injuries and needed extraction at the Bowline Point Power plant It was determined that a worker had fallen from the 8th floor to approximately the 2nd floor Firefighters were able to pin point where in the ducting the victim was by listening for breathing and ringing the cellphone Firefighters quickly began to breach the steel duct work The Rockland County Technical Rescue Team was dispatched They were able to cut away the thick ducting materials and access the victim Once the victim was extracted from the boiler ducts he was then brought to an awaiting ambulance The ambulance transported the victim to the nearby landing zone and later transported to Westchester Medical Center Tappan FD Announce Passing of 70 Year Life Member and Ex-Chief Richard Pforte Sr 9/11 Retired Firefighter Bob Beckwith Stood Beside President Bush in This Iconic Ground Zero Picture Has Passed Away THIELLS – About 50 family members of people who live in New York group homes rallied on Thursday outside the regional office of the state Office for People With Developmental Disabilities Andrew Cuomo to open up the residences after nearly four months of a coronavirus lockdown that has limited access to their loved ones They held signs that read "OPWDD Have you forgotten about our loved ones?" and "Nail salons are open; unlock group homes" as they sought attention for the plight of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities who remain restricted to their group homes.  It was not lost on many that they stood on property that was once part of Letchworth Village a state-run institution that housed generations of children with developmental disabilities through most of the 20th century The facility earned a notorious reputation "It's very poignant that we're here at Letchworth," said Susan Havko of Newburgh resides in a Sullivan County group home but that we need to change for the future." The state has been less than clear about when residents of group homes can leave to visit family were ordered off limits to visitors in mid-March Day habilitation programs that serve people with intellectual and developmental disabilities also remain paused for an unknown period In a June 16 Executive Order,  Cuomo said that group homes could allow limited visits with precautions the governor extended the order until at least Aug While the order has allowed for outside visits the protesters Thursday say that's not enough especially for many group home residents who have seen their routines shattered Havko and others said the outdoor visits confuse many people with developmental disabilities FaceTime and ZOOM visits also don't work for people who have limited communication abilities Michael Guerrero of Garnerville was at the rally, holding a sign that questioned whether group home residents had been forgotten and calling on the state to "unpause group homes" and "restore family visits."  Greene, had been placed in a Garnerville group home just four months ago "He is basically not going to understand." Guerrero said he has helped out the Greene family with P.J. I haven't been able to see him since March." She said the state may think they are protecting his health but the lack of visitations is jeopardizing his mental health "There are so few things that he enjoys and family is probably at the top of the list," she said "There comes a time when you have to access risk to the individual." Recent research from a team at Syracuse University documented a high rate of fatalities among group home residents group homes are congregate settings with workers coming in and out That creates a ripe environment for a virus like COVID-19 to be brought into a facility and to spread The researchers also reported that many people with developmental disabilities suffer from co-morbidities — health problems that put people more at risk for bad outcomes from the coronavirus But many at Thursday's rally said their children aren't medically fragile "My son's house only has young men in their 20s," said Ivy Ozer of Scarsdale "They have to take an individualized approach to each house." Dario Mazurek of Stony Point serves as chairman of the board of directors for Camp Venture a Rockland nonprofit that provides lifespan services for people with developmental disabilities He is also the father of a 30-year-old man Mazurek knows the threat of COVID-19 is real: 11 residents in Venture group homes and one staff member have died from COVID-related illness "We want to keep them safe," Mazurek said of the up to 400 people who live in Venture residences is "taking a physical and emotional toll on this fragile population." The New City Democrat said he has been in contact with officials in Albany about issuing clear protocols "I am hopeful we will get positive guidance soon." Several people at the rally said that families can be trusted to take safety measures to keep their loved ones safe from the coronavirus They added that staff members come and go to group homes they should be able to take their loved ones home or come inside for a visit "I just don't think I'm a visitor," Havko said adding that families are a key part of a person with developmental disabilities' safety net and support system Nancy Cutler writes about People & Policy. Click here for her latest stories. Follow her on Twitter at @nancyrockland. Support local journalism; go to lohud.com/specialoffer to find out how NY – It is with great sadness that we share the passing of well-known Rockland resident Dan DeSerio Dan SeSerio was well known and respected to the residents, workers and business owners of the Towns of Nyack, Piermont and Spring Valley. “The beautiful soul who brightened not only your windows but your day, has tragically passed. He was the victim of a hit-and-run accident as he was crossing the street in his hometown of Pomona on Friday We know he would want you all to be assured that he didn’t consider this so much a job It gave him immeasurable joy to spend his days in your towns chatting and being a part of your lives over the past 25 years He cherished especially the memories of bringing his sons down to help him wash windows as he laughed and bonded with them He knew that time together with them was a special gift that a week didn’t go by where he didn’t say “I love my window business.” (Well He loved the shop and restaurant owners and workers he met In a world where personal contact is being replaced by electronics and genuinely gifted his radiant smile and time to everyone whose path he crossed we’d giggle over the fact that though he was 72 he would find a way to do this for another 20 years if he could February 1st from 4pm to 8pm at TJ McGowan and Sons Funeral Home in Garnerville Happy Groundhog Day Rockland February 2nd 2024 Rockland County High School Student Raises Money for the Homeless and proud smiles filled the campuses of Clarkstown High School North and South as the district celebrated Decision Day a nationwide event recognizing high school seniors’ post-graduation plans honors students as they announce the next chapter of their academic and professional journeys Known as “Decision Day,” the celebration gives seniors the opportunity to share where they’re headed after graduation—whether it be college Clarkstown’s Class of 2025 displayed their next steps with pride donning gear from institutions across the country and posing for photos with peers and teachers who supported them along the way Clarkstown Central School District made sure to remind them of where their journey began “No matter where our learners’ college and university selections may take them we are so proud to have been an important first stop on their academic journeys,” the district shared in a message to families and the community you were—and will always be—Rams and Vikings.” The event not only celebrated the achievements of the seniors but also served as inspiration for underclassmen showing them what’s possible through hard work Clarkstown continues to recognize the resilience Congratulations to all the Rams and Vikings—past NY – The Haverstraw Police Department is investigating a fatal hit and run motor vehicle accident involving a pedestrian that occurred this morning This incident occurred on Thiells Mt Ivy Road in the area of the Hillcrest Firehouse They are attempting to ascertain information regarding this incident and anyone who may have witnessed or has any information is requested to contact the Haverstraw Police Department Detective Bureau at 845-942-3730 NYPD Arrest Driver of Vehicle in Bronx Crash that Killed Rockland County Teen Ramapo PD Arrest New York City Man for Burglarizing Several Synagogues in Monsey NY – Haverstraw Police Department announce the arrest of a 25-year-old female from Pomona in connection with the fatal hit and run motor vehicle accident on Thiells Mt Ivy Road in the early morning of January 26 The suspect was charged with the following: 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐚𝐧 𝐚𝐜𝐜𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭 – 𝐢𝐧𝐯𝐨𝐥𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚 𝐝𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡 (𝐃 𝐅𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐲) 𝐚𝐠𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐯𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐮𝐧𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐫 𝟏𝐬𝐭 – 𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 (𝐄 𝐅𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐲) 𝐜𝐢𝐫𝐜𝐮𝐦𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐧 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐥𝐨𝐜𝐤 𝐝𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞 (𝐔 𝐌𝐢𝐬) 𝐚𝐠𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐯𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐮𝐧𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 (𝐀 𝐌𝐢𝐬) Dan SeSerio was a well known and respected to the residents workers and business owners of the Towns of Nyack “The beautiful soul who brightened not only your windows but your day He was the victim of a hit-and-run accident as he was crossing the street in his hometown of Pomona BREAKING: Suspect in Hillcrest Shooting Takes Own Life During Traffic Stop in Connecticut We recently took a trip to abandoned Letchworth Village, once a model institution for the treatment of the mentally and physically disabled. Set in a bucolic landscape in the town of Haverstraw in Rockland County, Letchworth Village is not unlike parts of Kings Park Psychiatric Hospital on Long Island in terms of layout stone buildings are set amidst rolling hillside along curved streets with vintage-style lampposts and you can easily sense the utopian idyll that governed the architecture and design of such an institution In fact, Letchworth was modeled after Monticello, the Virginia plantation of Thomas Jefferson and likely named after Letchworth in England, the first “Garden City” in the world and highly influential town planning model. Letchworth Village was originally encompassed 2,300 acres, whose patients worked on the land, like the Staten Island Farm Colony It was a distinct attempt to provide better conditions moving patients from high density high rise institutions to a country-side environment Letchworth developed a rather ignominious reputation for dubious experimentation and inconsistent care It was here that children were used to test the polio vaccine, the first human trials in the world. In other experiments, as Abandoned NYC reports “Brain specimens were harvested from deceased residents and stored in jars of formaldehyde  This horrific practice has become a favorite anecdote of ghost-hunters and adolescent explorers.” Many of the people who died here were buried in a Potter’s Field though later a monument was erected “To those that shall not be forgotten.” the property is managed by the town of Haverstraw A portion of the property closer to Stony Point which housed the adult male population and the farm colony group has already been converted into a Patriot Hills Golf Course and a Veterans Memorial Park on both portions of the property still stand however which is now part of Nissesquogue State Park visitors are welcome to walk into the property Vines grow on and around the buildings and lampposts but the town of Haverstraw keeps the roads clear A local resident feeds and cares for cats who have made the buildings home The interiors of the building have many pieces of furniture and hospital equipment left over but have been heavily vandalized over time: The influence of Neoclassical architecture can be seen in the ionic columns triangular pediments and portico elements: like the many lampposts that line the streets and former basketball courts: One of the fewer 1960s-era buildings on the property Administration Building on the officer’s cottage side of the property There were plans to convert more of Letchworth Village to other uses but they appear to be on hold at the moment This is a great day exploratio,legally if you follow the rules Next, check out out 10 of NYC’s abandoned hospitals and asylums You've successfully subscribed to Untapped New York Check your email for magic link to sign-in