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:
Rockland County Fire Chiefs Association Honors Decades of Service
Rockland County, NY – Firefighters, officials, and community leaders gathered for the Rockland County Fire Chiefs Association Annual Dinner, celebrating the dedication and commitment of volunteer firefighters who have served their communities for decades. The event was attended by Clarkstown Supervisor George Hoehmann, Congressman Mike Lawler, Rockland County Director of Fire and Emergency Services Chris…
Continue Reading Rockland County Fire Chiefs Association Honors Decades of Service
RBA Bagels & Briefings: Phillips, Monaghan Discuss Housing and Commercial Development
Haverstraw, NY – The Rockland Business Association (RBA) held a town hall meeting this morning, bringing together local business leaders, government officials, and community members to discuss upcoming economic development, small business growth, and infrastructure improvements in Rockland County. The meeting was held at Haverstraw Town Hall, at 8 am Friday, on Pi Day. As…
NYS Senate passes 25-26 one-house budget resolution
Albany, NY – The New York State Senate has passed its one-house budget resolution for the 2025-2026 fiscal year, aiming to ease financial burdens on residents while investing in infrastructure, public safety, environmental protection, and social programs. The resolution, which includes several key initiatives introduced by Senator Pete Harckham, reflects a commitment to making New…
Continue Reading NYS Senate passes 25-26 one-house budget resolution
STAC Opens Lower Hudson Valley Small Business Development Center
Sparkill, NY – St. Thomas Aquinas College (STAC) marked a major milestone with the grand opening of the Lower Hudson Valley Small Business Development Center (SBDC) on its campus. The March 6 ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrated a new partnership aimed at fostering economic growth, supporting small businesses, and expanding experiential learning opportunities for students. With this…
Continue Reading STAC Opens Lower Hudson Valley Small Business Development Center
Nyack Awarded $4.5 Million for Downtown Revitalization Through NY Forward
Nyack, NY – The Village of Nyack is set to undergo a significant transformation following the announcement by Governor Kathy Hochul that it will receive a $4.5 million grant through the NY Forward program. This funding will support economic development, infrastructure improvements, and sustainability projects aimed at revitalizing Nyack’s downtown and enhancing its appeal for…
Continue Reading Nyack Awarded $4.5 Million for Downtown Revitalization Through NY Forward
County Launches Citizen Advisory Committee for Comprehensive Plan Update
New City, NY – Rockland County has officially launched a Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC) to assist in updating its Countywide Comprehensive Plan, a vital initiative aimed at shaping the county’s long-term growth and development. The effort will be led by the Rockland County Planning Department, with input from both the CAC and a Technical Advisory…
Continue Reading County Launches Citizen Advisory Committee for Comprehensive Plan Update
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.