The Week in Review: Nov 24 to Nov 30, 2024

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ON THIS WEEK’S PODCAST:

This episode is sponsored by ⁠Ivy Rehab Physical Therapy⁠, in West Haverstraw, NY. Call them today at 845-579-5677.

  • Bear Mountain Bridge Centennial: The Bear Mountain Bridge celebrates 100 years with a parade, historical reflection, and community festivities.
  • Holiday Toy and Clothing Drives: Rockland County and State Senator Bill Weber host annual drives for toys, clothing, coats to support children, families in need.
  • Drug Bust in Pomona: Authorities arrest Richard Fernandez, seizing cocaine, fentanyl pills, and other substances during a major drug operation.
  • Haverstraw Arrest: Kevin Reyes faces multiple charges after police discover a loaded firearm and controlled substances during his arrest.
  • EMTs Unionization Efforts: Haverstraw EMTs move to unionize, citing safety and professional recognition while hosting a food drive.
  • Rockland Congestion Pricing Lawsuit: The county revives its lawsuit against New York’s congestion pricing plan, citing financial and local burdens.
  • Lawrence Garvey Garvey Lawsuit Withdrawal: Former GOP chairman Lawrence Garvey withdraws his $2 million defamation lawsuit against Clarkstown officials.
  • Rose Memorial Library Bond Vote: The Stony Point library bond vote remains undecided with close tallies awaiting certification.
  • Clover Stadium Holiday Events: Santa visits and a winter market highlight festive activities at Clover Stadium in Pomona.
  • Victorian Holiday at Harmony Hall: Harmony Hall hosts a traditional Victorian holiday event with music, crafts, and family fun.
  • Rockland Boulders Optimism for 2025: The New York Boulders prepare for their upcoming season after a rain-impacted 2024.
  • Small Business Saturday Initiatives: Local chambers promote shopping locally with contests and incentives to support small businesses.
  • Nyack Holiday Activities: Mayor Joe Rand to discuss upcoming holiday and shopping events in the village of Nyack on Monday, 12/2/24 Rockland News podcast.
  • Holidays in Haverstraw: Rockland County Concert Band’s annual performance ushers in the holiday spirit on December 7th.

Bear Mountain Bridge Celebrates Centennial

The Bear Mountain Bridge marked its 100th anniversary last Sunday with a grand ceremony and parade. Starting from Westchester and Putnam Counties, the event showcased 100 classic cars, antique fire trucks, and a live musical performance by the West Point Military Academy band. New York State Senator Pete Harckham and Assemblyperson Chris Eachus joined local leaders and bridge enthusiasts to commemorate the first vehicular crossing between Westchester and Rockland Counties, a feat of engineering that has inspired modern suspension bridges like the George Washington and Golden Gate bridges.

Holiday Drives Brighten Rockland County

Rockland County launched its 8th annual holiday toy and clothing drive to support children served by the Department of Social Services. Donations can be dropped off at various county offices and libraries. Similarly, State Senator Bill Weber is hosting a holiday coat drive with numerous collection points throughout the region.

Drug Busts and Arrests in North Rockland

A five-month investigation led to the arrest of Pomona resident Richard Fernandez for drug sales, including cocaine and fentanyl. In a separate case, Haverstraw police apprehended Kevin Reyes for possession of a loaded firearm and drugs. Both incidents underline the county’s commitment to tackling substance abuse and illegal trafficking.

EMTs Push for Unionization

Haverstraw EMTs have begun efforts to unionize under the Civil Service Employees Association. Citing workplace safety and professional recognition, the group also demonstrated their community spirit by organizing a holiday food drive for local food pantries.

Legal Developments in Clarkstown and Beyond

Former Rockland County Republican Party chairman Lawrence Garvey has dropped his lawsuit against Clarkstown officials, following accusations of defamation linked to campaign fund disputes. Meanwhile, Rockland County is reigniting its lawsuit against New York State’s congestion pricing plan, which will impose fees of up to $21 for certain vehicles entering Manhattan below 60th Street starting in 2025.

Community Events Light Up the Holiday Season

The $38 million Clover Stadium in Pomona is transforming into a festive hub, featuring Santa’s visit and a winter market in December. Additional highlights include Small Business Saturday promotions, tree lightings, and events like the Victorian Holiday celebration at Harmony Hall in Sloatsburg, which combines live music, crafts, and holiday traditions.

Proposition Update for Rose Memorial Library

Stony Point’s Rose Memorial Library bond vote remains too close to call, currently with 52 votes in favor of the budget increase for the library. The measure aims to increase funding for a new facility, with final results expected once staffing at the Board of Elections returns to normal.

Stay updated on Rockland’s latest stories by visiting Rockland News.

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