Today’s Sponsor:
This Week’s Key News Stories:
Sponsors:
- IVY Rehab Physical Therapy – West Haverstraw, NY | Contact: 845-579-5677
- Dana Pest Control – Family-owned for over 40 years | Contact: 845-786-5226 | Website: danapestcontrol.com
Top Stories:
Stony Point Seals Polar Plunge:
The 26th annual event raised funds for children with serious medical conditions, despite harsh weather conditions with 5 inches of fresh snow. Beneficiaries included Alexander, Jade, Noel, and Elizabeth.
Future interviews are planned with founders John Fox and Michael Leyden.
Tourism Grants:
Rockland County Executive Ed Day and Economic Development Director Jenna Nazario announced $316,000 in tourism grants to 30 organizations.
Tourism brought in over $556 million in 2023, reducing the average household tax burden by $613.
Housing Plans Public Input:
Rockland County is seeking public input on housing and community development, with a survey open through March 15.
Fire Safety Concerns:
Ed Day condemned the Rockland County Mazzilli ACMA’s petition to become an independent fire company due to safety concerns.
MTA and Congestion Pricing:
Ed Day criticized the MTA’s congestion pricing, citing inequitable investment in Rockland’s transit services.
Orange County’s legislation to withdraw from the MTA could influence Rockland’s future decisions.
New Community Relations Director:
Yvette Nunez Arias was appointed as the new Director of Community Relations, focusing on enhancing ties between government and local communities.
Black History Month Celebration:- Scheduled for February 21, 2025, at the Lewis Kurtz Center in Spring Valley, hosted by the NAACP and Tappan Zee Lodge #79.
Weather:
- Tuesday: Evening snow flurries.
- Wednesday: Cloudy, high of 35°F, low of 32°F.
- Thursday: Rain, high of 44°F, low of 26°F.
- Friday: Cloudy, high of 33°F, low of 19°F.
- Saturday: Possible snow flurries (1-3 inches), high of 35°F, low of 32°F.
- Sunday: Rain, high of 41°F, low of 21°F.
Interviews:
John Ross (Rocklanders for Alternatives to Driving – RAD):
- Advocate for improved public transportation, better sidewalks, and bike lanes in Rockland County.
- Discussed the implications of Orange County’s potential withdrawal from the MTA and its possible impact on Rockland.
- Emphasized the need for more reliable bus services and potential transit-oriented developments like those proposed near the Shops at Nanuet.
Tina Dawn (Life Force Self-Defense):
- A registered nurse turned self-defense instructor with a 5th-degree black belt.
- Shared her personal journey into self-defense after a stalking incident.
- Emphasized the importance of women learning self-defense to build confidence and safety awareness.
- Offers classes focused on practical, real-life self-defense techniques, encouraging women of all fitness levels to participate.
More stories:
David R. Cahill
June 8, 1954 – August 20, 2025 It is with broken hearts that we announce the death of our beloved, David Cahill. Whether you know him as Dave, Dave the Rave, “One More” Dave, King David, Mr. Wonderful, Coach, or his favorite names, Dad or Papa, to know him was to love him. Dave was…
Stony Point Retailers Senator Harckham Meet, Discuss ORU & CHPE Retail Crisis
STONY POINT, NY – Local business owners, elected officials, and community leaders gathered recently in Stony Point to address the ongoing disruption caused by infrastructure work being conducted by Orange & Rockland Utilities (O&R) and Champlain Hudson Power Express (CHPE). The meeting, initiated by small business owners in North Rockland, and supported by the North…
Continue Reading Stony Point Retailers Senator Harckham Meet, Discuss ORU & CHPE Retail Crisis
West Haverstraw Man Arraigned on Charges of Attempted Murder and Arson Following Apartment Fire
West Haverstraw, NY — A 72-year-old man from West Haverstraw was arraigned in Rockland County Court on a slew of serious charges, including multiple counts of attempted murder and arson, following an early morning fire in a multi-family residence earlier this month. German Santiago, a resident of 52 Blauvelt Avenue, was indicted on 11 counts…
County Executive Ed Day Condemns MTA’s Proposed Fare Hikes as “Unjustifiable”
New City, NY — Rockland County Executive Ed Day is demanding that the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) withdraw its proposed Metro-North fare increases for West of Hudson riders, denouncing the move as “wholly unjustifiable” and “unacceptable” for Rockland commuters. The MTA is currently conducting public hearings on the proposed fare adjustments, scheduled for August 19…
Continue Reading County Executive Ed Day Condemns MTA’s Proposed Fare Hikes as “Unjustifiable”
Stephanie Ann Wyman
Stephanie Ann Wyman, 69, of Northvale, NJ, passed away on Saturday, August 16, 2025. Loving partner of Vincent Guarino. Dearest sister of Jacqueline D’Amico, William Wyman and wife Carmelita and Michael Wyman and wife Juanita. Cherished aunt of Robert, Christopher and Michael. Stephanie was an office manager for a local podiatrist for many years. She…
Wayne Hose Fire Company Honors Two New Inductees in Memoriam
STONY POINT, NY — In an emotional and uplifting ceremony held under the shelter of a newly constructed auxiliary building, the Wayne Hose Fire Company welcomed two new honorary members into its ranks—each with a story that left a lasting impression on all in attendance. The first honoree, William “Bill” Halstead, was posthumously inducted in…
Continue Reading Wayne Hose Fire Company Honors Two New Inductees in Memoriam
This Week’s Featured Event:
Whiskey Crossing & Line Dancing at the Patriot Lounge
Nashville recording artist Whiskey Crossing is currently signed with Perry Music Group of Nashville for distribution. Whiskey Crossing is an upbeat high energy country act that is sure to bring the heat and excitement to any stage. Bringing down the house with a sing-along set with original country covers from the 90s to today as well as original music that is available for streaming worldwide. LEARN MORE
Thanks for joining us on this week’s edition of the Rockland News Week in Review.