Latest News
February 16, 2026
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Maureen P. Woodley Remembered for a Life of Compassion and Service: Bishop Maureen Patricia Woodley, originally from Clarendon, Jamaica and a resident of Walden, New York, died on January 22, 2026. Woodley was known for her kindness, compassion, and dedication to supporting others. Her presence was a source of comfort to friends, family, and all who knew her, and she often provided help in times of need. Her legacy is remembered by the many lives she touched through her steadfast care and empathy. (Source: Pelham Examiner on Feb 16)
February 3, 2026
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Rafael Villafane, Insurance Executive and Longtime New Windsor Resident, Dies at 81: Rafael Eugenio Villafane, known as Papo, died on January 28, 2026, at the age of 81 in New Windsor, New York. Born in Santurce, Puerto Rico, he moved to New York City as a child and graduated from Long Island City High School before earning a bachelor's degree at Queens College. Villafane spent nearly five decades working in the insurance industry, holding senior roles with major companies in New York City. He relocated to New Windsor in 1988, where he lived until his passing. (Source: Pelham Examiner on Feb 3)
November 20, 2025
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Modena Thruway Service Area Reopens, Completing Statewide Modernization Project: The Modena service area on the New York State Thruway has reopened, marking the completion of a comprehensive $450 million modernization project across all 27 service areas. The Modena location, situated on I-87 southbound between New Paltz and Newburgh, was the last to be upgraded. Enhancements include new dining choices, outdoor amenities, and digital tourism resources, with electric vehicle fast chargers set for future installation. This overhaul began in 2021 and added thousands of jobs. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Nov 20)
October 29, 2025
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Proposed New York Bill Seeks Rent Stabilization in Upstate Municipalities: A New York State bill known as the Rent Emergency Stabilization for Tenants (REST Act) is under consideration, potentially allowing upstate municipalities to establish rent stabilization measures. Since 2019, some cities outside New York City have sought to control rent hikes, but attempts have often been thwarted by legal challenges from the real estate sector. Despite opposition from landlords and ongoing lawsuits, the bill has drawn favorable responses from both residents and lawmakers in recent hearings. (Source: Fingerlakes1.com on Oct 27)