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:
Mary Ann Viglietta
Mary Ann Viglietta (née Foscante), 81, of Tappan, NY, passed away on Thursday, June 26, 2025. She was the beloved wife of the late Anthony Viglietta and the devoted mother of Angela and Kathleen, and Kathleen’s partner, LaRon Grady. She was a proud and loving grandmother to James, Heather, Sean, Madison, Mia, and Christian. Mary Ann…
Spring Valley Man Arraigned in Fatal Crash That Killed 4-Year-Old Girl
SPRING VALLEY, NY — Axel I. Lopez-Santiago, 41, of Spring Valley, was arraigned today before Rockland County Court Judge Kevin Russo on a Grand Jury indictment stemming from a tragic vehicular incident that resulted in the death of a 4-year-old girl and serious injuries to two others. Lopez-Santiago faces multiple felony charges, including three counts…
Continue Reading Spring Valley Man Arraigned in Fatal Crash That Killed 4-Year-Old Girl
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Rockland County Looking for Volunteers
This story is sponsored by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Rockland County Big Brothers Big Sisters of Rockland County is once again opening its arms to the community, seeking dedicated volunteers to become mentors for local youth. Since its founding in 1984, the organization has served as a beacon of guidance and friendship for young…
Continue Reading Big Brothers Big Sisters of Rockland County Looking for Volunteers
Spring Valley Man Indicted for Aggravated Vehicular Homicide in Death of 4-Year Old
Spring Valley — Rockland County District Attorney Tom Walsh has announced the indictment of Axel I. Lopez-Santiago, 41, of Spring Valley, following a tragic vehicular incident that claimed the life of a 4-year-old girl and injured two others. A Rockland County Grand Jury voted to indict Lopez-Santiago on multiple felony charges, including three counts of Aggravated…
Continue Reading Spring Valley Man Indicted for Aggravated Vehicular Homicide in Death of 4-Year Old
College Strong: Empowering Young Women Through Self-Defense
This story is sponsored by Life Force Self Defense. NYACK, NY – In an era where personal safety and empowerment are more crucial than ever, LifeForce Self-Defense is introducing “College Strong,” a 90-minute class tailored for young women aged 12 to 24. Held in White Plains, Nyack, Suffern, and Kingston, this vital course is designed…
Continue Reading College Strong: Empowering Young Women Through Self-Defense
Rockland Cooling Centers Are Open – 26 Across the County
With the extreme heat predicted, residents can visit one of 26 cooling centers throughout the county. Location and contact information is listed below. New City, NY — With summer temperatures soaring across the Hudson Valley, Rockland County officials are issuing a grave warning about the dangers of leaving children and pets unattended in vehicles during…
Continue Reading Rockland Cooling Centers Are Open – 26 Across the County
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Thanks for joining us on this week’s edition of the Rockland News Week in Review.