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News from Rockland County, New York

The Week in Review: Feb 22, 2025

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Today’s Sponsor:

This Week’s Episode:

Congressman Mike Lawler Interview

  • Constituent Services: Congressman Lawler highlighted his continued efforts to meet with constituents, with plans for town hall meetings. Last year, he closed over 5,000 cases and passed 11 bills through the House, 6 of which became law.
  • Funding & Legislation: Lawler secured $38 million for the district through community project funding and aims to bring more funds and grants to the area.
  • Legislative Process: Lawler discussed differences between Congress and the New York Assembly, emphasizing the robust committee process in Congress.
  • Government Spending: Discussed waste, fraud, and abuse in government spending, particularly through USAID. He aims to reform government programs to ensure efficiency.
  • Tax Policy & Affordability: Lawler pushed for lifting the cap on the SALT deduction and emphasized reducing costs for middle-class and working-class families.
  • Government Efficiency: Supports the Department of Government Efficiency’s efforts to reduce waste and revamp the appropriations process.
  • Foreign Affairs: As the Chair of the Middle East Subcommittee and Vice Chair for Communications on the Financial Services Committee, Lawler is focused on stability in the Middle East and scrutinizing U.S. aid to Ukraine.
  • Bipartisanship: He underscored his dedication to creating bipartisan support for impactful legislation.

Senator Bill Weber Interview

  • Congestion Pricing: Senator Weber expressed gratitude to the Trump administration for halting the $9 congestion pricing tax for drivers entering New York City below 60th Street. He hopes this tax will not resurface.
  • MTA Service Issues: Rockland County residents face a $40 million value gap due to poor service from the MTA. Weber criticized MTA leadership for acknowledging the service issues without presenting solutions.
  • Transportation Alternatives: While exploring additional commuting options such as increased bus lines and ferry services, Weber stressed the need for long-term transportation planning and infrastructure improvements.
  • Tax Concerns: He warned against potential future taxes that could negatively impact Rockland residents, emphasizing the high existing costs of commuting into New York City.

3. Seth Breslaw from Brenner Tools Interview

  • Smart Water Assistant Device: Breslaw introduced the Phyn Smart Water Assistant, a device that detects leaks, prevents floods, and allows remote water shutoff via a mobile app.
  • Functionality: The device can alert homeowners to potential issues such as freezing pipes or dripping faucets, helping avoid expensive repairs and water waste.
  • Entrepreneurial Journey: Breslaw shared his story of developing innovative plumbing tools, including the “Smakt” tool, which increases efficiency in plumbing installations.
  • Future Innovations: He expressed interest in developing a gas leak detection device, highlighting the importance of safety and proactive maintenance for homeowners.

Additional Sponsors for This Week:

More stories:

Orangetown’s Veterans Memorial Park Splash Pad to Open May 23

Orangetown, NY — The Town of Orangetown’s Department of Parks and Recreation has officially announced the seasonal reopening of the Veterans Memorial Park Splash Pad, commencing on Thursday, May 23, and continuing through September 1. The facility will operate daily from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., offering a recreational amenity designed to provide residents with…

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Ramapo Hosts First Annual Safety Expo Extravaganza at Clover Stadium

Pomona, NY — Supervisor Michael Specht launched the First Annual Safety Expo Extravaganza at Clover Stadium, bringing together a wide array of public safety, health, and emergency response organizations for a day of community engagement and education. Held in collaboration with the Ramapo Police Department, W. P. Faist Volunteer Ambulance Corps, Spring Hill EMS, Hatzolah,…

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Supervisor Kenny Joins Rockland Business Association for Bagels & Briefing

Orangeburg, NY — Supervisor Teresa Kenny met with members of the Rockland Business Association (RBA) last Friday morning for the organization’s popular “Bagels and Briefing” program, engaging in a thoughtful discussion on local economic development. Topics included both the challenges and opportunities facing the Town of Orangetown, with special attention to key sites such as…

Continue Reading Supervisor Kenny Joins Rockland Business Association for Bagels & Briefing

ShopRite in New City Celebrates Grand Reopening After Major Renovation

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nvIILkZtTNE New City, NY — The newly renovated ShopRite in New City is officially open, welcoming shoppers with a fresh new look and upgraded amenities following a complete transformation of the store. To mark the occasion, Supervisor George Hoehmann, Rockland County Executive Ed Day, Town Councilmen Bob Axelrod, Mike Graziano, and Mark Licker, and Town…

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Girl Scout Troop Installs Bluebird Boxes at Historic Traphagen Property

West Nyack, NY — A big round of applause goes to Girl Scout Troop 40179 for their environmental stewardship and hands-on learning this week at the Historic Traphagen Property, adjacent to Germonds Park. The troop successfully installed two bluebird nesting boxes with guidance from the Audubon Society, learning how to properly build and place the…

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This Week’s Featured Event:

Rockland Music Fest: Sept 2025

Thanks for joining us on this week’s edition of the Rockland News Week in Review.

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