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:
Marie Elena Cracolici
Marie Elena Cracolici, 68, of Spring Valley, NY, passed away surrounded by her family on Saturday, April 25, 2026. Beloved wife of Isidoro (Izzy). Loving mother of Julian and his partner Michelle Grundig, Joseph and his wife Kristin, and Gina Cracolici. Caring grandmother of Giulianna, Lorenzo, Gia and Grayson. Proud sister of Julio and Nathy and sister-in-law of Josie, Sal and Tom. She is also survived by many loving…
WorkSmart Business Bootcamp at Dominican University on Wednesday 4/29/26 – Keynote John Catsimatidis WABC
John Catsimatidis will speak on Wednesday 4/29 at the 4th annual WorkSmart Business Bootcamp, via Zoom. Breakfast, speed networking and additional talks are scheduled all morning. BLAUVELT, NY — The 4th annual WorkSmart Business Bootcamp will be held Wednesday, April 29, at 8:30 a.m. at Dominican University, inside the Lawrence Room at Rosary Hall. The…
Karen L. Buongiorno
Karen L. Buongiorno (nee Ulione), 68, of Northvale, NJ, formerly of Wyckoff, NJ, passed away beside her family on Sunday, April 26, 2026. Karen was a beloved wife of Perry F. Buongiorno. Cherished mother to her son Mark Ciccarelli and his wife Birdie and daughter Nicole Silcher and her husband Eric. She was a dear…
Questions Raised Over Transparency In County Legislature
New City, NY — Concerns about government transparency in Rockland County have been brought into public view following a recent letter criticizing the availability and timeliness of official legislative records. The letter, submitted by a local resident and circulated in a regional business journal, focuses on delays in posting meeting minutes and other public documents…
Continue Reading Questions Raised Over Transparency In County Legislature
August S. Sarti
August S. Sarti, 94, of Old Tappan, NJ, passed away at home on Monday, April 20, 2026. Beloved husband of Rosalind (nee Tully). Cherished father of Betty Ann Reilly and her husband Terence. Proud grandfather of Christopher and his wife Kayla and Michael and his wife Kristen. Loving great-grandfather of Madison and Payton. Dear brother…
Bear Mountain Dumping Incident Leads to Charges
Bear Mountain, NY — A driver was ticketed and charged after authorities say an illegal dumping incident was stopped at Bear Mountain State Park on April 22. The incident involved a truck allegedly carrying and discarding a mixed load of debris within park grounds, prompting a response from environmental enforcement officials. According to reports, the…
Continue Reading Bear Mountain Dumping Incident Leads to Charges
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.
