Rockland News - It's Local that Matters.

News from Rockland County, New York

The Week in Review: Feb 12, 2025

Also available on Spotify – click here to listen to the episode

Today’s Sponsor:

This Week’s Key News Stories:

Sponsors:

Top Stories:

Stony Point Seals Polar Plunge:

The 26th annual event raised funds for children with serious medical conditions, despite harsh weather conditions with 5 inches of fresh snow. Beneficiaries included Alexander, Jade, Noel, and Elizabeth.

Future interviews are planned with founders John Fox and Michael Leyden.

Tourism Grants:

Rockland County Executive Ed Day and Economic Development Director Jenna Nazario announced $316,000 in tourism grants to 30 organizations.

Tourism brought in over $556 million in 2023, reducing the average household tax burden by $613.

Housing Plans Public Input:

Rockland County is seeking public input on housing and community development, with a survey open through March 15.

Fire Safety Concerns:

Ed Day condemned the Rockland County Mazzilli ACMA’s petition to become an independent fire company due to safety concerns.

MTA and Congestion Pricing:

Ed Day criticized the MTA’s congestion pricing, citing inequitable investment in Rockland’s transit services.

Orange County’s legislation to withdraw from the MTA could influence Rockland’s future decisions.

New Community Relations Director:

Yvette Nunez Arias was appointed as the new Director of Community Relations, focusing on enhancing ties between government and local communities.

Black History Month Celebration:
  • Scheduled for February 21, 2025, at the Lewis Kurtz Center in Spring Valley, hosted by the NAACP and Tappan Zee Lodge #79.

Weather:

  • Tuesday: Evening snow flurries.
  • Wednesday: Cloudy, high of 35°F, low of 32°F.
  • Thursday: Rain, high of 44°F, low of 26°F.
  • Friday: Cloudy, high of 33°F, low of 19°F.
  • Saturday: Possible snow flurries (1-3 inches), high of 35°F, low of 32°F.
  • Sunday: Rain, high of 41°F, low of 21°F.

Interviews:

⁠John Ross (Rocklanders for Alternatives to Driving – RAD)⁠:

  • Advocate for improved public transportation, better sidewalks, and bike lanes in Rockland County.
  • Discussed the implications of Orange County’s potential withdrawal from the MTA and its possible impact on Rockland.
  • Emphasized the need for more reliable bus services and potential transit-oriented developments like those proposed near the Shops at Nanuet.

⁠Tina Dawn (Life Force Self-Defense)⁠:

  • A registered nurse turned self-defense instructor with a 5th-degree black belt.
  • Shared her personal journey into self-defense after a stalking incident.
  • Emphasized the importance of women learning self-defense to build confidence and safety awareness.
  • Offers classes focused on practical, real-life self-defense techniques, encouraging women of all fitness levels to participate.

More stories:

RCC Officially Opens SUNY Reconnect Office

SUFFERN, NY— Rockland Community College marked the opening of its new SUNY Reconnect Office this month, a move aimed at expanding access to higher education for adult learners across Rockland County and the surrounding region. The new office, located in the lobby of the college’s Technology Center, was officially unveiled during a ribbon-cutting ceremony that…

Continue Reading RCC Officially Opens SUNY Reconnect Office

Gerard “Jerry” Lenahan

Gerard “Jerry” Lenahan, 98, of Northvale, NJ, passed away at home on Sunday, December 14th, 2025. Beloved husband of the late Alice (nee Betz). Cherished father of Maureen Coberly, Alisa Perretti (and her husband Daniel), and Susan Treanor (and her husband Frank). Proud Grandfather of Jennifer (late Chris), Melissa, Emily (Tom), and Jesse (Tanya). Adored…

Continue Reading Gerard “Jerry” Lenahan

Winter Wellness: Navigating the Season with Intention and Balance

By Rockland News Staff Jennifer Lima, Certified Professional Health Coach STONY POINT, NY – As winter sets in and the holiday season gains momentum, many Rocklanders are seeking ways to stay grounded, healthy, and mindful during a time often dominated by stress and indulgence. Jennifer Lima, a nationally certified health and wellness coach and founder…

Continue Reading Winter Wellness: Navigating the Season with Intention and Balance

Day Declares December Universal Human Rights Month in Rockland

NEW CITY, N.Y. – Rockland County Executive Ed Day has issued a proclamation designating December as Universal Human Rights Month in Rockland County, reaffirming the county’s commitment to dignity, equality, and justice for all. The announcement coincides with global observances of Universal Human Rights Month and International Human Rights Day. Myrnia Bass-Hargrove, Acting Human Rights…

Continue Reading Day Declares December Universal Human Rights Month in Rockland

Clarkstown Democratic Committee to Host 2nd Candidate Forum

New City, NY – The Clarkstown Democratic Committee will hold its second candidate forum of the year on Thursday, December 11, from 7 to 9 p.m. at Clarkstown Town Hall in New City. The forum, moderated by commentator Pete Dominick, will feature three Democratic candidates running in New York’s 17th Congressional District: John Cappello, Peter…

Continue Reading Clarkstown Democratic Committee to Host 2nd Candidate Forum

This Week’s Featured Event:

Whiskey Crossing & Line Dancing at the Patriot Lounge

Nashville recording artist Whiskey Crossing is currently signed with Perry Music Group of Nashville for distribution. Whiskey Crossing is an upbeat high energy country act that is sure to bring the heat and excitement to any stage. Bringing down the house with a sing-along set with original country covers from the 90s to today as well as original music that is available for streaming worldwide. LEARN MORE

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

Translate »