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:
Body of Bear Mountain Bridge Jumper Recovered
Stony Point, NY – The body of a 20-year-old man was recovered from the Hudson River by the Rockland County Sheriff’s Office four days after authorities said he jumped from the Bear Mountain Bridge, according to New York State Police. State Police said troopers assigned to the Haverstraw barracks responded to the Bear Mountain Bridge…
Continue Reading Body of Bear Mountain Bridge Jumper Recovered
Cancer Advocates Meet With NY-17 Candidates
Nyack, NY – Cancer survivors and advocates in New York’s 17th Congressional District are meeting with both candidates in this year’s congressional race as part of an effort to make cancer research, prevention and access to health care issues in the 2026 election. Local cancer survivors and volunteers with the American Cancer Society Cancer Action…
Continue Reading Cancer Advocates Meet With NY-17 Candidates
Truck Strikes I-87 Overpass, Overturns
South Nyack, NY: A tractor-trailer struck an overpass on the New York State Thruway in South Nyack on Monday, Aug. 10, overturning and colliding with a car parked along the highway, according to New York State Police. The crash occurred at approximately 12:20 p.m. on the southbound side of Interstate 87 near the South Broadway…
Mark Michael Piano
Mark Michael Piano, 71, of Airmont, NY, passed away on May 9, 2026, at Good Samaritan Hospital in Suffern, NY. Despite being otherwise healthy almost his entire life, Mark died from an aortic aneurysm that ruptured. Mark was known for being a loyal, steadfast friend and co-worker, and a devoted, loving family member. Born on…
Peter Pastras
Peter Pastras, age 67, passed away on August 8, 2026. Beloved husband of Debra Thompson, loving father of Thea Pastras and Devin Pastras. Dear brother of Constance Pastras and Dean Pastras. Brother-in-law of Deborah Bajakian, Lesley Thompson, Laurie and Edward Wikoff, Joanne and Robert Maransky. Son-in-law of Roger and Mary Jane Thompson. Peter was born…
Theodora Ann McDaniell
Theodora Ann McDaniell (nee Persico), 78, of Manahawkin, NJ a former long time resident of Northvale, NJ passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 26, 2026. Theodora’s (Thea) life was defined by her devotion to her family and her unwavering commitment to serving others. For more than two decades, she answered the call of her community…
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.
