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:
Orangetown’s Veterans Memorial Park Splash Pad to Open May 23
Orangetown, NY — The Town of Orangetown’s Department of Parks and Recreation has officially announced the seasonal reopening of the Veterans Memorial Park Splash Pad, commencing on Thursday, May 23, and continuing through September 1. The facility will operate daily from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., offering a recreational amenity designed to provide residents with…
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Camp Scuffy to Host Open House on May 18
Ramapo, NY — Families interested in summer fun are invited to attend the Camp Scuffy Open House on Sunday, May 18, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The open house offers a chance to meet some of the camp staff, explore the facilities, and learn more about what makes Camp Scuffy a beloved summer destination…
Ramapo Hosts First Annual Safety Expo Extravaganza at Clover Stadium
Pomona, NY — Supervisor Michael Specht launched the First Annual Safety Expo Extravaganza at Clover Stadium, bringing together a wide array of public safety, health, and emergency response organizations for a day of community engagement and education. Held in collaboration with the Ramapo Police Department, W. P. Faist Volunteer Ambulance Corps, Spring Hill EMS, Hatzolah,…
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Supervisor Kenny Joins Rockland Business Association for Bagels & Briefing
Orangeburg, NY — Supervisor Teresa Kenny met with members of the Rockland Business Association (RBA) last Friday morning for the organization’s popular “Bagels and Briefing” program, engaging in a thoughtful discussion on local economic development. Topics included both the challenges and opportunities facing the Town of Orangetown, with special attention to key sites such as…
Continue Reading Supervisor Kenny Joins Rockland Business Association for Bagels & Briefing
ShopRite in New City Celebrates Grand Reopening After Major Renovation
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nvIILkZtTNE New City, NY — The newly renovated ShopRite in New City is officially open, welcoming shoppers with a fresh new look and upgraded amenities following a complete transformation of the store. To mark the occasion, Supervisor George Hoehmann, Rockland County Executive Ed Day, Town Councilmen Bob Axelrod, Mike Graziano, and Mark Licker, and Town…
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Girl Scout Troop Installs Bluebird Boxes at Historic Traphagen Property
West Nyack, NY — A big round of applause goes to Girl Scout Troop 40179 for their environmental stewardship and hands-on learning this week at the Historic Traphagen Property, adjacent to Germonds Park. The troop successfully installed two bluebird nesting boxes with guidance from the Audubon Society, learning how to properly build and place the…
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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.