Today’s Sponsor:
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:
Patricia A. Perry
Patricia A. Perry (nee Mullin), 82, of Oakland, NJ, formerly of Bergenfield, NJ and Demarest, NJ, passed away at home surrounded by her loving family on Sunday, September 14, 2025. Beloved wife of the late Benjamin Perry. Loving mother of Barbara, Benjamin “BJ” Perry and his wife Marianna and Daniel Perry and his wife Janine.…
Lorraine Jean Maldonato
Lorraine Jean Maldonato (nee Moncalieri), 90, of Northvale, NJ, passed away on Saturday, September 13, 2025. Loving mother of Mark Russo and his partner Pam and the late Lori Joy Russo. Caring grandmother of Joseph, Alyssa and Salina. Beloved sister of Winifred Rizzo and her late husband John, and Tonianne Maxwell and her husband Bill. …
Rockland Health Department to Offer Free Flu, MMR Vaccines
New City, NY — As flu season approaches and public health officials remain vigilant about vaccine-preventable diseases, the Rockland County Department of Health (RCDOH) has announced a series of community clinics offering free flu and MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccines to residents. The seasonal flu vaccine will be available for individuals aged 6 months and…
Continue Reading Rockland Health Department to Offer Free Flu, MMR Vaccines
Bardonia Man Arraigned on Charges Stemming from Undercover Child Exploitation Investigation
New City, NY — A Bardonia man is facing felony charges after allegedly attempting to send sexually explicit material to someone he believed was a 14-year-old girl. The individual turned out to be an undercover investigator, part of a multi-agency task force targeting online crimes against children. Victor Caligiuri, 28, was arraigned in Rockland County…
Former Rockland Legislator Meehan Remembered for Decades of Public Service
New City, NY — John F. Meehan, a longtime Rockland County public servant, died on September 5 at the age of 84. Meehan, a three-term legislator and lifelong resident of Suffern, is remembered for his collaborative spirit and commitment to improving the lives of county residents across party lines. First elected in 1973, Meehan served…
Continue Reading Former Rockland Legislator Meehan Remembered for Decades of Public Service
Lieberman Retires After 41 Years of Journalism
Steve Lieberman New City, NY – After 41 years of reporting, Steve Lieberman, has retired from The Journal News/lohud. His departure marks the end of an era in local journalism and leaves behind a legacy of reporting, dedication, and knowledge of the county he so diligently covered. Lieberman began his journey with The Journal News…
Continue Reading Lieberman Retires After 41 Years of Journalism
This Week’s Featured Event:
Thanks for joining us on this week’s edition of the Rockland News Week in Review.