Category: Town of Ramapo

Black History Month Events at RCC

Celebrating the contributions of African Americans

 

Rockland County, NY (February13, 2023) – Rockland Community College is celebrating Black History Month with enriching and engaging events throughout the month of February as well as throughout the year. Black History Month is a time to celebrate the achievements of Black Americans and to recognize their role in the history of the United States. In addition to celebrating the contributions of Black people in arts, literature, music, food, and society and politics, this year, the RCC Black History Month committee has chosen a theme that centers around health and wellness as it affects the African Diaspora. All events are free. For more information visit this link https://sunyrockland.edu/media/black-history-month/

 

Wednesday, February 15 12:30 pm – 2:00 pm EST

Student WRAP Session – Health & Wellness, Community Connectedness & Relationships

As mental health concerns continue to escalate, it is crucial to establish environments where individuals feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and emotions. To address this issue, we invite all students to participate in a discussion facilitated by both RCC staff and mental health experts. This talk-back will provide an opportunity to openly discuss topics that are of concern to us all, with a specific focus on the difficulties faced by the Black community in accessing mental health resources. By fostering a supportive and inclusive dialogue, we aim to encourage individuals to prioritize their mental well-being and seek out the necessary resources and support. https://sunyrockland.edu/event/student-wrap-session/

 

Wednesday, February 15 2:00 pm – 2:50 pm EST

RCC Faculty/Staff Reading Group – Special Selection for African American History Month

All are invited to participate in an engaging conversation about the impactful and transformative lives of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X. RCC faculty, staff, and students will be discussing The Sword and The Shield: The Revolutionary Lives of Malcolm X and Martin Luther King Jr by Peniel Joseph, which highlights the controversial yet important aspects of their lives.

 

Friday, February 17 12:00 pm – 12:50 pm EST

Film Screening – The Black Church

Join us for a film screening as we delve into the rich and diverse history of spirituality in the Black community. From its roots in West African faith traditions to the influence of early Methodist and Baptist churches and its significance in the Black freedom struggle, this film by Dr. Gates explores it all. Let’s come together to examine the role of religion, the church, and spirituality in shaping our health and well-being. https://sunyrockland.edu/event/film-screening-the-black-church/

 

Wednesday, February 22 10:30 am – 2:30 pm EST

Wellness Fair

Join us for an uplifting and rejuvenating experience that touches on all aspects of wellness – mental, physical, and spiritual. The Black History Month committee is hosting a Wellness Fair with a focus on the whole YOU. Get your heart pumping with Fit Hop class with G.I.A.N.T. from the Bartendaz, immerse yourself in mindfulness sessions, sample delicious and nutritious food at our healthy food demos, and much more! https://sunyrockland.edu/event/wellness-fair/

 

Wednesday, February 22 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm EST

Black History and Women’s History Month Mural Unveiling

Faculty, staff, and students are invited to participate in RCC Art Club’s tribute to iconic Black women through the creation of a window mural. This mural will feature quotes from renowned Black women writers, including RCC alumna Dr. Frances Pratt. The mural painting will take place in the Atrium of the Cultural Arts Center from 12:00 pm to 1:30 pm, where the Art Club will provide paint pens and reference materials for inspiration. To celebrate their efforts, the Art Club will host a pizza party from 1:30 pm to 2:30 pm in the faculty dining room for all participants. https://sunyrockland.edu/event/black-history-and-womens-history-month-mural-unveiling/

 

Tuesday, February 28 7:00 pm EST

Brother – A Musical Adaptation, by Miranda Holiday

Miranda Holiday is putting the finishing touches on her musical adaptation of Ambrose Bierce’s classic short story “An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge.” Titled “Brother,” this version is set during the Vietnam War era and is the result of her creative vision. After the performance, there will be a talkback session where audience members can ask questions and engage in a discussion about the production. Visual and Performing Arts Alumnus Ryan McNeill, will be performing in the event. https://sunyrockland.edu/event/brother-a-musical-adaptation-by-miranda-holiday/

Town of Ramapo Action Alert

On January 25, 2023, the Town of Ramapo Town Board adopted a local law authorizing a partial tax exemption for volunteer firefighters and volunteer ambulance workers.
Officials say the move would allow for an exemption of up to 10% of the assessed value of the primary residence of volunteer firefighters and ambulance workers.
There are some stipulations, however, such as the requirement for the property to be owned by the volunteer, that the property must be the volunteer’s residence and the volunteer must live in the jurisdiction that is served by the fire department or ambulance service.
Application are due on or before March 1, 2023.

For more information or an application contact the Town assessor’s office at 845-357-5100 x261

GRAND JURY INDICTS RAMAPO MAN FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF CHILD

Rockland County District Attorney Thomas E. Walsh II announced today that a Rockland County Grand Jury has indicted Ottoniel Gomez-Martinez, 42 of Ramapo, New York, on one count of Predatory Sexual Assault Against a Child (PL Sec. 130.96), one count of Rape in the First Degree (PL Sec. 130.35(3)), one count of Sexual Abuse in the First Degree (PL Sec. 130.65(3)), and one count of Endangering the Welfare of a Child (PL Sec. 260.10(1)).

 

On February 2, 2023, Ottoniel Gomez-Martinez is alleged to have sexually abused and raped a seven year-old female in his home.

 

District Attorney Thomas E. Walsh II said, “As alleged, the defendant used his relationship with the seven-year-old victim to violate and sexually abuse her. The defendant will now be held responsible for his heinous actions, and he will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. We must undertake all efforts to protect our children. They are the future.”

 

The defendant faces a maximum sentence of 25 years to life in prison on the top count. The investigation was conducted by the Ramapo Police Department with the assistance of the Rockland County District Attorney’s Office Special Victims Unit. Supervising Assistant District Attorney Gerard M. Damiani III is prosecuting the case.

 

It should be noted that a criminal complaint is merely an accusation and that a defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

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