Bowling for a Cause: “2024 Hometown Heroes” Event to Support Special Needs

Jawonio’s “2024 Hometown Heroes” event on April 21st at New City Bowl & Batting Cages is more than just a game. It’s a community gathering to support individuals with disabilities and special needs, offering bowling, lunch, and a commemorative t-shirt for participants, all for a good cause. This event underscores the importance of inclusivity and support within our community​ (Jawonio Organization)​.

A Night of Brazilian Jazz at Maureen’s Jazz Cellar

Get ready to be swept away by the rhythms of Brazil at Maureen’s Jazz Cellar! On Friday, April 5, prepare for a musical journey as you experience the sultry sounds of Brazilian Jazz with the incredible performances by Maucha Adnet & Duduka Da Fonseca, featuring the talented Helio Alves & Gili Lopez.

The evening offers two shows, giving jazz enthusiasts the flexibility to join either at 7 PM or 9 PM. This event, with tickets priced at $30, promises to be an intimate session of world-class music nestled in the cozy confines of Maureen’s Jazz Cellar, located at 2 N. Broadway, Nyack, NY.

For those looking to indulge in a night of cultural and musical richness, tickets can be secured by calling (845) 535-3143. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to revel in the passionate and dynamic flair that Brazilian Jazz has to offer!

Stony Music Fest X – Volunteer & Band Meeting, 4/4 @ Casa Del Sol, Nyack

Festival Poster for Stony Music Fest X

Nyack, NY – Stony Music Fest X: The Finale (July 10-13, Stony Point) is set to kick off its volunteer and band coordination meeting tonight, April 4th, starting 6 pm at Casa Del Sol in Nyack.

The gathering – followed at 8 pm with Casa del Sol’s legendary Open Mic Night – promises an evening of community, collaboration, and music.

Organized by the festivals’ North Rockland Chamber of Commerce Board, and an army of volunteers, the meeting aims to bring together musicians, vendors, food trucks, and festival enthusiasts to finalize preparations for the upcoming finale concert at Riverfront Park.

Attendees will have the opportunity to meet fellow volunteers and performers, discuss event logistics, and contribute to the final stages of planning for one of the most anticipated music festivals this year in Rockland County.

Tom Ossa, a key organizer of the Stony Music Fest since 2015, will be providing appetizers for volunteers and bands for SMFX attending the meeting. This gesture aims to foster a welcoming and collaborative atmosphere, ensuring volunteers and bands feel appreciated for their contributions to the festival’s success.

When asked why this is the “finale”, Ossa replied very directly “Because we’re taking this entire thing to Clover Stadium next year.” He elaborated that next year is stage 2 of a multi-year effort to create a more vibrant “music economy” in Rockland County.

“The Stony Music Fest is stage 1. We now have the design, the bands, the people and the support of the County of Rockland, Veolia Water, Saint Thomas Acquainas College, and over 50 other sponsors each year. Next year is stage 2.”

“But first” he added, “we have to put on an amazing show this year. First things first.”

Following the meeting, Casa Del Sol will host an open mic night starting at 8 pm, featuring the much-loved local band Electric Beef. Known for their electrifying performances and engaging music, Electric Beef’s appearance is a highlight of the evening, offering a taste of the musical talent scheduled to grace the Stony Music Fest.

The open mic segment invites musicians and singers from the community to showcase their talents, making it a perfect opportunity for emerging artists to perform in a supportive environment. Participants and guests are encouraged to stay after the meeting to enjoy the performances and continue the enjoyment of the evening.

Casa Del Sol, located in the heart of Nyack, is known for its vibrant atmosphere and commitment to supporting local arts and music. The venue’s partnership with the Stony Music Fest underscores its dedication to fostering a thriving cultural scene in Rockland County.

Kidzone Event Shifts Venue Due to Weather

In light of the upcoming weather forecast, the much-anticipated Kidzone Event in Suffern has been moved indoors to ensure the festivities can proceed without a hitch. Originally slated for an outdoor celebration, the event will now be hosted at the Suffern Community Center, located at 41 Washington Avenue, on Thursday, April 4th, from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm.

This vibrant event, open exclusively to Village of Suffern residents in grades K—5, promises a day filled with fun activities designed to make this Spring Break memorable. The change in venue guarantees that the joyous spirit of the occasion remains undampened, offering a warm and inviting space for children and their families to gather.

Attendees can look forward to an array of engaging activities including:

  • Inflatables and Bouncy Castles: A hit among children for the boundless energy they invite.
  • Ice Cream Bar: A sweet treat that offers customizable fun for every ice cream lover.
  • Crafts: A creative outlet for children to make their own keepsakes.
  • Snacks & Refreshments: To keep everyone fueled and hydrated throughout the event.

Given the indoor setting, the event organizers remind participants that this is not a drop-off event. Parents or guardians are required to stay with their children, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all. This also presents a wonderful opportunity for parents to engage with their children in a fun-filled setting, creating lasting memories.

For those seeking more information or with specific inquiries, the Suffern Recreation department is available at 845-357-7943 or via email at cmills@suffernny.gov. They are ready to assist with any questions about the event or accommodations needed to ensure a pleasant experience for all attendees.

Don’t let the weather dampen your spirits! Join us at the Suffern Community Center for a day of indoor fun that promises to be as exciting and fulfilling as any outdoor event. Let’s celebrate Spring Break together, creating smiles and laughter that echo beyond the weather.

Empowering the Next Wave of Tech Pioneers: A Spotlight on St. Thomas Aquinas College’s Innovative Program

St. Thomas Aquinas College in Sparkill, New York, stands at the forefront of STEM education with the launch of its pioneering Computer Science Scholar Success Program, thanks to a generous $30,000 grant from the Motorola Solutions Foundation. Aimed at enhancing the educational journey of computer science majors, this program is a testament to the college’s unwavering commitment to nurturing future leaders in the tech industry.

Dr. Bianca Wentzell, Dean of the School of STEM at the college, expressed immense pride in the launch. The program is designed to provide a comprehensive support system for students, encompassing professional mentorship, financial assistance, and unique research opportunities through participation in the XLab Research Team.

The Motorola Solutions Foundation, renowned for its dedication to fostering innovation and diversity in STEM fields, sees this collaboration as an extension of its mission to make meaningful impacts in communities. Karem Pérez, vice president of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and executive director at the foundation, highlighted the significance of supporting initiatives that empower students to drive societal progress.

Key features of the program include:

  • Engaging monthly cohort discussions on the latest in computer science.
  • Opportunities for students to connect with seasoned professionals.
  • An exclusive event celebrating the success of scholars within the program.

Prospective and current students have until April 15, 2024, to apply for this opportunity, signaling a promising start to the 2024-2025 academic year. For more information, interested individuals are directed to the college’s website.

In an era where the demand for skilled computer science professionals is soaring, initiatives like this are crucial. With the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 15% growth in IT and computer science jobs this decade, programs that offer specialized training and resources are invaluable. St. Thomas Aquinas College is positioning itself as a key player in developing the next generation of computer scientists, with a curriculum that includes cutting-edge concentrations like cloud computing, data analytics, and graphics.

This partnership between St. Thomas Aquinas College and the Motorola Solutions Foundation is more than just a financial endowment; it’s a beacon of progress in the education and technology sectors, paving the way for aspiring innovators to transform the digital landscape.

For further details on the Computer Science program and application process, visit stac.edu/computer-science. Join us in celebrating this milestone in STEM education and the bright future it heralds for students at St. Thomas Aquinas College.

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