Commentary

Hey Orange County! The week leading up to Memorial Day was a busy and very meaningful one, full of celebration, reflection, and coming together as a community.

From cheering on our newest graduates to honoring the heroes who gave everything for our country, it was a time to recognize both the bright future ahead and the sacrifices that made it all possible.

I was able to attend two wonderful commencement ceremonies. It was an honor to take part once again in SUNY Orange’s 75th Anniversary Commencement Ceremony. For 75 years, SUNY Orange has served as a cornerstone of education, opportunity, and community growth in our county.

The members of the SUNY Orange Class of 2025 are great examples of determination and resilience, and they stand ready to make their mark, their positive impact, on the world. Congratulations to the graduates on reaching this important milestone. Your hard work and perseverance have paid off, and I’m confident your futures are bright.

I also had the privilege of attending the graduation of the Class of 2025 at West Point—the United States Military Academy. The weather cooperated, and the ceremony was a moving and powerful reminder of the strength, leadership, and commitment that define our Armed Forces. Being among these exceptional young leaders and their families was truly inspiring, and I thank West Point for the honor of being part of such a meaningful day.

It was very gratifying to spend some time last week supporting the Orange County Veterans Service Agency to prepare for Memorial Day. With help from the Enlarged City School District of Middletown and their NJROTC, more than 4,000 American flags were placed at the Orange County Veterans Cemetery. Each flag is more than just a symbol; it tells the story of a life dedicated to service and sacrifice. The sea of red, white, and blue that covers the ground stands as a moving tribute to our fallen heroes.

Memorial Day itself was filled with remembrance and community connection. I joined ceremonies in the villages of Maybrook and Unionville, where families and veterans gathered to honor those who gave their lives for our nation. I also got the chance to visit the Hudson Valley Honor Flight fundraiser. This incredible organization continues to ensure our veterans receive the recognition and gratitude they deserve. Please consider supporting their mission. You can learn more at hvhonorflight.com, and watch my most recent NeuCast episode at OrangeCountyGov.com.

As part of our ongoing commitment to the community, my office and I are focused on helping recent graduates take the next step toward meaningful careers. Supporting career growth is just one way we’re investing in the future of our community. We’re proud to partner with the Orange County Employment and Training Administration and the Department of Human Resources to connect local talent with opportunities in both county government and the private sector. Whether you’re just entering the workforce or exploring a new path, these resources are here to support your journey.

To learn more:

Job Seeker Services: https://www.orangecountygov.com/352/Employment-Training

Human Resources: https://www.orangecountygov.com/1137/Human-Resources

At the same time, we’re also making important strides to improve the infrastructure that keeps our county safe and connected. If you’re driving through Cornwall, you may notice progress on the Main Street Bridge project. Last week, our dedicated Department of Public Works team reached a major milestone with the installation of the south side parapet wall. Sidewalks and curbs are up next, and we’re excited to bring this key infrastructure upgrade closer to completion.

And while building for tomorrow, we’re equally committed to nurturing the well-being of our residents, especially during Mental Health Awareness Month, when we focus on supporting those with mental wellness challenges. One powerful example of this commitment was the Children’s Mental Health Awareness Walk, organized by the passionate team at VoicesUnited4Change. Families, advocates, and neighbors came together to show that no one walks alone in their mental health journey.

The event highlighted the strength of our community and the importance of breaking the stigma around mental health, especially for our youth. County employees also held a dress-down day to raise funds to support VoicesUnited4Change. For local mental health resources, please visit: orangecountygov.com/mental-health.

Keep active and stay positive! I hope to see you around the county!

Flags, Futures, and Mental Health: A Week of Unity in Orange County

Middletown Elks Lodge Holds Memorial Day Ceremony

Town of Wallkill Approves New Ambulance District to Save Financially Troubled EMS

Orange County Approves $5 Million Renovation to Upgrade Emergency Services System