Today’s Sponsor:
This Week’s Key News Stories:
Sponsors:
- IVY Rehab Physical Therapy – West Haverstraw, NY | Contact: 845-579-5677
- Dana Pest Control – Family-owned for over 40 years | Contact: 845-786-5226 | Website: danapestcontrol.com
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:
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:
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.