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Topics covered during this episode:
- Mystery Drone Sightings Spark Alarm Across Rockland County
- RCC Drives $397.8 Million Economic Impact in Rockland County Amid Budget Challenges
- Orangetown PBA’s 36th Annual Toy Drive Brings Holiday Cheer to Rockland
- Orangetown Police Investigate Pair of Early Morning Burglaries
- Patrick Carroll Sworn In as Assemblyman for New York’s 96th District
- Kick Off 2025 with a First Day Hike at Nyack Beach
- Ramapo Police Stress the Importance of Calling 911 for Emergencies
- Rose Memorial Library Unveils 2025 Book Club Reading List
- Suffern Kicks Off the Holiday Season with Annual Parade
- Nyack and Stony Point Honor the Lives of Five Esteemed Individuals Who Passed Away in December
- Plus, we’ll have interviews with Town of Haverstraw Supervisor Howard Phillips and Nyack Village Mayor Joe Rand, from our recent daily updates earlier this week.
Text Summary of this week’s topics:
1. Mystery Drone Sightings Spark Alarm in Rockland County
Residents of Rockland County have reported an alarming increase in mysterious drone sightings, echoing similar incidents in neighboring New Jersey and Pennsylvania. County Executive Ed Day has called for vigilance and urged locals to report drone activity. While federal agencies, including the FBI and DHS, have downplayed security threats, the origins and purposes of the large drones, often seen flying in clusters, remain unclear. Speculations range from agricultural to military uses, but unanswered questions continue to fuel community concern. READ MORE
2. Rockland Community College: A $397.8 Million Economic Driver
Rockland Community College (RCC) generated an impressive $397.8 million economic impact for the county in fiscal year 2022-2023, according to a new report. The study highlights RCC’s role in supporting nearly 4,000 jobs and contributing to workforce productivity through alumni-driven income of $323.8 million. Despite this success, RCC has faced financial challenges, implementing budget cuts and restructuring to address deficits. Interim RCC leader Dr. Beth Coyle emphasized the transformative role RCC plays in fostering economic vitality and community well-being.
3. String of Burglaries in Orangetown Raises Concerns
Orangetown police are investigating two early-morning residential burglaries in Pearl River and Orangeburg. The incidents involved entry through windows and theft of key fobs for luxury vehicles. The suspects, described as wearing hooded sweatshirts and ski masks, fled in a dark sedan. Authorities believe the burglaries are connected and urge residents with surveillance footage to assist in the investigation.
4. Orangetown PBA Brings Holiday Cheer with Toy Drive
The Orangetown Police Benevolent Association is hosting its 36th annual toy drive, collecting new, unwrapped toys to brighten the holidays for local children in need. Donations can be made through December 18th at Orangetown Police Headquarters and other designated locations. This long-standing community tradition continues to bring holiday joy to families across Rockland County. READ MORE
5. Nyack Holiday Village Ushers in Festive Spirit
Nyack’s inaugural Holiday Village event, spearheaded by Mayor Joe Rand and local businesses, offers an array of festive activities, including decorating contests, Winter Wonderland workshops for kids, and a music festival. The initiative, funded by Nyack’s hotel tax, aims to draw visitors downtown and support local businesses. Mayor Rand emphasizes the importance of shopping locally, highlighting the economic and community benefits of keeping spending within Rockland County. READ MORE
6. Suffering Celebrates Season with Holiday Parade
Suffering’s annual holiday parade showcased community spirit with decorated floats, performances, and festive displays. Organized by Mayor Thomas Curley and the Board of Trustees, the event awarded prizes for categories such as “Best Music” and “Most Creative,” fostering joy and togetherness as a hallmark of the season.
READ MORE
7. Rockland Green Advances Recycling and Sustainability
Rockland Green, the county’s waste management authority, continues to lead in environmental initiatives, including its food scraps recycling program. Aiming to convert food waste into nutrient-rich compost, the program has expanded across the county. Additionally, plans for a new state-of-the-art animal shelter highlight the agency’s commitment to humane animal care and waste reduction.
8. Community Honors Public Servants in Nyack
The Village of Nyack mourns the loss of three former leaders in 2024: Marie Lorenzini, James Liner, and Karen Quinn. Each contributed significantly to the village’s progress through initiatives in historical preservation, community service, and local government leadership. Memorials have been held to honor their legacies.
READ MORE
9. Rockland Residents Urged to Prioritize Fire Safety
The Ramapo Police Department, along with Rockland County Fire and Emergency Services, has urged residents to call 911 immediately in case of fire or gas emergencies. Quick reporting ensures efficient emergency response and emphasizes the importance of community safety protocols. READ MORE
10. Carol Stein Remembered as a Pillar of Community
Carol Stein, a beloved community figure known for her faith and volunteerism, passed away at 92. Her contributions to local churches, community organizations, and family remain an enduring legacy of love and service. The community has honored her life with heartfelt memorial services. READ MORE
More stories:
Luke Anthony Gervase
Luke Anthony Gervase, 88, a 60-year resident of Closter, NJ, passed away on Wednesday, October 15, 2025. Beloved husband of Virginia (née Marino) for nearly 65 years. Cherished father of Laura Bonanno and her husband Christopher of Dumont, NJ, Ronald Gervase of Springfield, NJ, Richard Gervase and his husband Stuart Delery of Washington, DC, and Luke Gervase and his wife Alexandra of Warwick, NY.…
Rockland Fashion Week kicks off 6th season on Nov 7th
Nyack, NY – Rockland County is once again stepping onto the global fashion stage as Rockland Fashion Week returns for its sixth year, promising to be the most dynamic edition yet. Produced by Hope Wade Designs of Nyack, this year’s theme, “Fashion Through the Ages,” celebrates style across generations and cultures. The weeklong celebration of…
Continue Reading Rockland Fashion Week kicks off 6th season on Nov 7th
Legislature Adopts Jared Lloyd Act Honoring Fallen Firefighter
Rockland County, NY – The Rockland County Legislature has unanimously approved the Jared Lloyd Act, a newly expanded law honoring the legacy of fallen firefighter Jared Lloyd while extending benefits to a broader group of emergency service volunteers and their families. The legislation, previously known as the Rockland County Volunteer Benefit Act, was renamed and…
Continue Reading Legislature Adopts Jared Lloyd Act Honoring Fallen Firefighter
Rockland DA’s Office, Suffern Police Partner for Gun Buyback Event Nov. 1st
Rockland County, NY -In a continuing effort to promote safety and reduce gun violence, the Rockland County District Attorney’s Office and the Suffern Police Department are teaming up to host a community gun buyback event on Saturday, November 1, 2025. The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Leo Lydon…
Continue Reading Rockland DA’s Office, Suffern Police Partner for Gun Buyback Event Nov. 1st
Clarkstown to Host Spooktacular Halloween Festival at Congers Lake October 18th
Congers, NY – The Town of Clarkstown is set to celebrate the spooky season in style with its annual Halloween Festival at Congers Lake Memorial Park — a family favorite that promises frightful fun and community spirit for all ages. The free event will take place on Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 11:00 AM to…
Continue Reading Clarkstown to Host Spooktacular Halloween Festival at Congers Lake October 18th
Clarkstown Hosts Annual Halloween K-9 Costume Contest Oct 17th
Get ready for a howling good time! The Town of Clarkstown is rolling out the orange carpet for its annual Halloween K-9 Costume Contest, where local pups will strut their spooky (and adorable) stuff at Congers Lake Memorial Park. The free event will take place on Friday, October 17, 2025, at 6:00 PM, with a…
Continue Reading Clarkstown Hosts Annual Halloween K-9 Costume Contest Oct 17th
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Thanks for joining us on this week’s edition of the Rockland News Week in Review.