Community News 12.18.2025

What’s going on in Rockland County from Thursday, December 18th – Wednesday, December 24th

Email gillian@rocklandcountytimes.com with events!

Orangetown

TAPPAN: ‘76 House, Brunch Buffet at The `76 House

Dec 28th

Back by popular demand!   Don’t miss this monthly event featuring an extensive and delicious brunch buffet! Whether it’s a family affair or brunch with the girls, come to The `76 House for a historic time!

This event will take place December 28th from  11:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Learn more at https://www.76house.com/ or call 845-359-5476 for more information. The `76 House, 110 Main Street, Tappan, NY 10983

 

TAPPAN: J.K. Ryan’s Pub and Restaurant, Sunday Funday!

Dec 28th

Sunday- funday pre-New Years Eve bash! The Benjamin Brothers  will be playing in the afternoon, and ballon animals will be avalible to be purchased.

This event will take place December 28th from  11:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Learn more at https://www.76house.com/ or call 845-359-5476 for more information. The `76 House, 110 Main Street, Tappan, NY 10983

 

PIERMONT: Piermont Fine Arts Gallery, Annual Holiday – New Year Exhibit

December 11th – February 1st

A dazzling array of artistic visions, styles, and mediums! Don’t miss our once-a-year exhibition of paintings, photography, and multimedia works by 21 of the area’s premier artists. Celebrate the holiday season and ring in the new year by enjoying an inspiring collection of dynamic abstracts, sublime nature scenes, colorful still-lifes, and aspirational travel images.

Whether you’re searching for a last-minute gift or treating yourself to an artistic moment, you’ll find a rich variety and exquisite craftsmanship in this special exhibition.

This event will take place from December 11th to February 1st. Learn more at https://www.piermontfinearts.com/ or call 845-398-1907 for more information. Piermont Fine Arts, 218 Ash Street, Piermont, NY 10968

 

Ramapo

SUFFERN: Rhino Comedy Club, Comedy Contest

December 26th

Come watch comics compete in the comedy showdown of the month!  Three rounds of short stand – up sets among the contestants – Voted on by YOU the audience! The winner will be awarded a paid performance spot on a Saturday Rhino Room Stand Up show! Come cheer on your favorites and enjoy a cold beverage and delicious meal from the Hardware Bar Menu. $12 ticket and two item min. Performers enter free – but also need to do their 2 item minimum. (Supporting our club! Thanks!) Competitors Sign Up online.

This event will take place December 26th at 8:00 p.m. Learn more at rhinosimprov.com or call (845) 533-4616 for assistance. Rhino Comedy –  22 Lafayette Ave. Suffern, NY 10901

Haverstraw

GARNERVILLE: Hudson’s Mill, R&B Sing Along Brunch

Dec 27th

Let the mimosas flow and the soulful vibes roll! Join us at Hudson’s Mill for a sing-along R&B brunch packed with timeless tracks and bottomless energy. Featuring classics from Destiny’s Child, TLC, Boyz II Men, & more. $30 per person plus tax – includes one brunch entrée

From slow jams to sing-alongs, it’s all soul, all afternoon.

PLEASE NOTE: Tables are labeled for how many guests fit at the table. If you wish to sit together, all tickets MUST be purchased under the same name. We will NOT be moving tables/reservations the day of the brunch. The table you purchase is where you are sitting the day of the event. Thank you, please call with any questions.

Registration is required to attend. This event will take place December 27th from 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Learn more at hudsonsmillny.com or call 845-429-5700 for assistance. 55 W Railroad Ave Bldg 19, Garnerville, NY 10923

 

Clarkstown

NANUET: The Nanuet Town Centre, Festival of Lights Hanukkah Celebration

Dec 21st

Celebrate the season of light! Join us for the Festival of Lights Hanukkah Celebration. Sunday, Dec. 21, 2025. 3PM-6PM. Enjoy live Hanukkah music, a glowing lights photo wall, and a themed photo booth with printed keepsakes to take home. Families can get creative with Hanukkah crafts, watch dazzling “Light Up the Menorah” performances, and indulge in festive treats featuring fruit and kosher chocolate.

This event will take place from December 21st from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.. Visit https://www.nanuettowncentre.com/festival-of-lights-hanukkah-celebration/ for more information or call (845)-347-9995 for assistance. The Nanuet Town Centre, 5101 Fashion Drive, Nanuet, NY 10954

WEST NYACK: Palisades Center, Levity Live, Cipha Sounds

Dec 26th – 28th

As a staple of NYC’s comedy scene and a DJ with roots in the city’s rich hip-hop history, Cipha Sounds is a man of many talents. With a knack for observational comedy, a background in improv, and an arsenal of music industry anecdotes, Cipha’s sets are always unique – drawing on the energy of the room and the audience.

Tickets can be purchased online at levitylive.com This event will take place from December 26th to 28th. Call 845-729-0448 for assistance. 1000 Palisades Center Drive, West Nyack, NY 10994

 

Stony Point

TOMPKINS COVE: Bear Mountain, New Year’s Brunch at Restaurant 1915

Dec 19th

Start the new year off with New Year’s Day Brunch at Restaurant 1915 at Bear Mountain Inn.  January 1, 2026. 10AM-2PM. Whether you’re celebrating with family, friends, or simply treating yourself to a special meal, our New Year’s Day Brunch offers the perfect setting to savor the flavors of the season and reflect on the year ahead.  Reservations required.

This event will take place on January 1st from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Learn more at visitbearmountain.com or call 845-786-2731 for more information. 99 Service Rd Tomkins Cove, NY 10986

 

Library Section

Orangetown

TAPPAN: Tappan Library, Monday Movie: Die Hard (R)

Dec 29th

New York City policeman John McClane is visiting his estranged wife and two daughters on Christmas Eve. He joins her at a holiday party in the headquarters of the Japanese-owned business she works for. But the festivities are interrupted by a group of terrorists who take over the exclusive high-rise, and everyone in it. Very soon McClane realizes that there’s no one to save the hostages — but him.

Registration is required. This event will take place December 29th from 1:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Learn more at southorangetownlibraries.com or call 845-359-3877 for assistance. 93 Main St., Tappan, NY 10983

NYACK: Nyack Library, Wingspan Club

Dec 30th

Come play Wingspan! Don’t know how to play? We will teach you! This event is intended for teens from grades 6-12.

Registration is not required. This event will take place December 30th from 4:00 p.m.- 6:00 p.m. Learn more at nyacklibray.org or call 845-358-3370  for more information. 59 S Broadway, Nyack, NY 10960

PEARL RIVER: Pearl River Library, STEM Science with Lily: Meet the Mushrooms! Grades 3-6

Dec 29th and 30th

Step into the fascinating world of fungi! In this hands-on class, students will discover the basics of mycology, the study of mushrooms, learn how fungi grow, where to find them, and why they play such an important role in our forests.

Registration is required. This event will take place on December 29th and 30th from 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Learn more at pearlriverlibrary.libcal.com or call 845-735-4084 for assistance. 75 E Central Ave, Pearl River, NY 10965

ORANGEBURG: Orangeburg Library, Drop In Crafts From the Closet

Dec 30th

Drop in to make some left-over craft projects or create your own masterpiece using odds and ends that are left over from the craft closet! 

Registration is required for this event. This event will take place December 30th from 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Learn more at orangeburglibrary.org or call (845) 359-2244 for more information. 20 S Greenbush Rd, Orangeburg, NY 10962

 

Ramapo

SUFFERN: Suffern Free Library, Walk in Crafts

Dec 29th

This program runs from 9:30 AM until a half hour prior to closing.

Come into the library and make a craft using your imagination and our leftover projects.

Registration is required. This event will take place December 29th all day. Learn more at suffernfreelibrary.libcal.com or call 845-357-1237 for assistance. 210 Lafayette Ave, Suffern, NY 10901

SPRING VALLEY: Finklestein Memorial Library, The Holiday Lights of New York City

Dec 22nd

Photo slide program will begin at Columbus Circle (59th Street), and will meander through the streets of New York City viewing the holiday lights and window decorations, as only New York City can do it. Slides will include, among others, the Fifth Avenue Snowflake, Rockefeller Center, and a host of gayly decorated storefronts and hotels, including Macy’s, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Bergdorf Goodman. Program will also include some historical facts of the key sights, and works of art, making the experience much more enjoyable and entertaining. Presentation is the next best thing to being in New York City and guaranteed to put you in the holiday spirit.

Registration is not required. This virtual event will take place December 22nd from 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.  Learn more at villagespringvalley.org or call 845-352-5700 for assistance. 24 Chestnut St, Spring Valley, NY 1097

 

Haverstraw

HAVERSTRAW: Haverstraw King’s Daughters Library, Blood Drive

Dec 29th

Make your appointment to donate blood and give hope to others. The need is constant and the nation is facing a blood shortage. When you donate, you are part of a lifesaving cause!

To Register: https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/drive-results?zipSponsor=SpringValleyNY

Registration is required. This event will take place December 29th from 10:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Learn more at attend.finkelsteinlibrary.org or call 845-786-3800 for assistance. 10 West Ramapo Rd., Garnerville, NY 10923

 

Clarkstown

NANUET: Nanuet Public Library, Noon Year’s Eve

Dec 31st

Come celebrate the end of 2025 with stories, crafts, and a countdown at noon! Best for ages 4 and up.

Registration is required. Walk-ins will be welcome in programs if space allows. This event will take place from  December 31st from 11:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Learn more  at nanuet.librarycalendar.com or call 845-623-4281 for assistance. 149 Church Street Nanuet, NY 10954

 

Stony Point

STONY POINT: Rose Memorial Library,

Chair Yoga

Dec 26th

Join us for weekly Chair Yoga with Lonnie June. Chair Yoga is just yoga with a prop – the chair! Although it may be especially beneficial for beginners, seniors or those recovering from injuries, it is an excellent practice for anyone at any level. Build strength & balance while learning breath work and mindfulness for body, mind & soul.

At Patriot Hills Community Center – Board Room). Please to give your contact info (cell & email) to the instructor for any cancellations or announcements. $10 fee per class

Registration is required. This event will take place December 26th from 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Learn more at rmla-ny.whofi..com or call 845-786-2100 for more information. Garnerville Arts Center55 W Raolroad Ave, Garnerville , NY 10923

 

Winter Wonderland!

The Winter Wonderland is open every night from 5-9PM. Stop inside for the Lego display and enjoy the holiday music and light displays. Also, check out the various holiday programs at the center this month.

This festive light show will take plae at Congers Lake Memorial Park and Community Center, 6 Gilchrest Rd., Congers

 

Seniors in the Holiday Spirit

Supervisor Hoehmann and Clarkstown Parks & Recreation Superintendent Matt Veronesi were invited to attend the Nanuet II Senior Club Holiday Party at the Pearl River Saloon. Happy Holidays to all of our incredible senior clubs and thank you for the work that you do!

 

A Very Broadway Christmas Recap

Gillian DeStefano, Community Editor (left) and Sierra Lidén, Managing Editor (right) left the church feeling extra festive!

The team here at the RCT had a great time attending “A Very Broadway Christmas” at St. John the Baptist Church in Hillsdale this past Sunday.

The church packed an impressive crowd of over 600 attendees, who braved the elements with their trusted four-wheel drive to hear the talented performers.

My favorite part of the night was when host Ciarán Sheehan asked the audience to jingle their keys along to the tune of “Silver Bells.” Special thanks to Father Peter for his hospitality and the completion of yet another successful “A Very Broadway Christmas!”

 

Meet Our Stunning Tortie Joyce!

This gorgeous 6-month-old tortoiseshell is ready to find her forever home! With her striking coat and soulful eyes, she’s as beautiful on the outside as she is sweet on the inside.She’s a playful, affectionate young cat who loves chasing her toys, curling up for cuddles, and soaking up all the pets she can get. Her gentle purrs and loving spirit make her the perfect companion for anyone looking to add a little joy (and a bit of tortie sass!) to their life.Adoption Application: https://www.fourlegsgoodnynj.org/adoption-application.html

 

Spotlight on Rockland Theater

Misery

Written by William Goldman

Based on the novel by Stephen King

Antrim Playhouse

Running February 6th- 22nd

Experience the gripping intensity of Misery, the thrilling stage play adaptation of Stephen King’s iconic novel. Follow the chilling tale of renowned author Paul Sheldon, who finds himself trapped and at the mercy of his obsessive fan Annie Wilkes after a tragic car accident. As the tension mounts and secrets unravel, witness a battle of wills like no other, culminating in a riveting showdown that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Go to antrimplayhouse.com or call (845) 533-5616 for more information.

32 Old Tappan Rd, Tappan, NY 10983

 

Perfect Arrangement

written by Topher Payne

directed by Paul Russo

Elmwood Playhouse

Running

January 16th –  February 7th

Set in the 1950s, this comedic play follows two gay couples, Bob and Jim, and their respective “wives,” Millie and Norma, who work in the U.S. State Department. To avoid persecution during the Lavender Scare, they maintain a carefully constructed façade of heterosexual marriage. Their charade unravels when they are assigned to identify “sexual deviants” within their ranks, forcing them to confront their identities and the fragility of their so-called perfect arrangement.

Go to elmwoodhouse.com or call  (845) 353-1313 for more information.

10 Park Street Nyack NY 10960

 

Maureen’s Jazz Cellar!

 

DEAD NIGHT WITH TROUBLE JUNCTION – DEC 26

Featuring Todd Weiss, Steve Bernstein, Mike Manuele, Brendan Connolly, Larry Vedilago

DOORS- @7:00

SHOWTIME- @8:00

COVER CHARGE- $15.00

 

BRIAN CHARETTE ORGAN TRIO – DEC 27

Featuring Eric Zolan & Jordan Young

DOORS- @7:00

SHOWTIME- @8:00

COVER CHARGE- $25.00

 

LATE NIGHT PIANO BAR WITH THE BUDMAN – DEC 27

DOORS @9:45

SHOWTIMES @10:00

NO COVER CHARGE

 

NEW YEAR’S EVE-EVE GLOW PARTY WITH THE S’BUDS – DEC 30

David Budway, Ray Longchamp, Scott Hogan, Frank Colonnato & Josh Kates

Party Favors! Champagne Toast!

DOORS @8:00

SHOWTIME @9:00

MUSIC CHARGE- $20.00

 

FROSTY TUESDAYS OPEN MIC – JAN 13

Tuesday, January 13, 2026

DOORS & SIGN-UP @7:00

SHOWTIMES @8:00

COVER CHARGE- $5 (People seated must order food or drink- $10 minimum)

 

DEAD NIGHT WITH NICK DUNBAR AND SAD COWBOY – JAN 15

Featuring Nick Dunbar, Sean Ronan, Eric Cohen, Dave Lockhart & Cory Metrick

DOORS @7:00

SHOWTIME @8:00

COVER CHARGE- $15.00

On the Big Screen

 

Avatar: Fire and Ash – Action/ Fantasy

The conflict on Pandora escalates as Jake and Neytiri’s family encounter a new, aggressive Na’vi tribe.

 

Marty Supreme – Sport/ Drama

In the 1950s, young Marty Mauser pursues his dream of becoming a champion table-tennis player.

 

Zootopia 2 – Family/ Comedy

Detectives Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde find themselves on the twisting trail of a mysterious reptile who turns the mammal metropolis of Zootopia upside down. Testing their growing partnership like never before, they go under cover in new parts of town to crack the case.

 

Five Nights at Freddy’s 2 – Horror/ Mystery

One year has passed since the supernatural nightmare at Freddy Fazbear’s Pizza. Former security guard Mike has kept the truth from his 11-year-old sister, Abby, concerning the fate of her animatronic friends. When Abby sneaks out to reconnect with Freddy, Bonnie, Chica and Foxy, she sets into motion a terrifying series of events that reveal dark secrets about the true origin of Freddy’s.

 

Town Meetings

 

Orangetown – January 20th, 2026   @ 7:00 p.m.

Town Board Regular Meeting

More information at orangetown.com

26 Orangeburg Road

Orangeburg, NY 10962

 

Ramapo – December 24th, 2025 @ 7:00 p.m.

Town Board Regular Meeting

More information at ramapo.org

237 Route 59,

Suffern, NY 1090

 

Stony Point – January 13th, 2026 @ 7:00 p.m.

Town Board Regular Meeting

More information at townofstonypoint.org

19 Club House Lane

Stony Point, NY 10980

 

Clarkstown – January 6th, 2026 @ 7:00 p.m.

*date subject to change*

Town Board Regular Meeting

More information at clarkstown.org

10 Maple Ave.

New City, NY 10956

 

Haverstraw –  January 13th, 2026 @ 7:00 p.m.

Town Board Regular Meeting

More information at townofhaverstraw.org

1 Rosman Road

Garnerville, NY 10923

 

Streaming Favs

 

Swiped – Drama

on Hulu

Whitney Wolfe Herd breaks into the male-dominated tech industry by launching two innovative dating apps, making her the world’s youngest self-made female billionaire.

 

IT: Welcome to Derry – Horror

on HBO Max

Following the events in the 1960s, the time leading up to the events of the first film in the Stephen King `It’ series.

 

A Charlie Brown Christmas- Family

on Apple TV

A Charlie Brown Christmas is a 1965 American animated television special. It is the first TV special based on the comic strip Peanuts, by Charles M. Schulz, and features the voices of Peter Robbins, Christopher Shea, Kathy Steinberg, Tracy Stratford, and Bill Melendez

 

Oh. What. Fun. – Comedy

on Amazon Prime

Claire plans a special Christmas, however, she is forgotten by her family. When they finally realise that she is missing, their holiday is at risk until she returns to give them the celebration they deserve.

 

Upcoming Events at Big Red Books

Big Red Books is a general interest bookstore. We aim to be at the center of the Nyack community in an enriching social and artistic environment, engaging in the lives of our local patrons and organizations by sharing our appreciation for books, art, learning and personal growth. Big Red Books provides a supportive space for local authors and artists to celebrate and promote their work. We host author readings, gallery openings, live music, poetry nights, book clubs, writing workshops, children’s story time, school visits and book fairs. Find a full list of events at bigredbooks.net. 120 Main Street Nyack, NY 10960

Wednesday Jan 7th, 2026 at 6:00 pm

Mystery Book Club

Join for our very first meeting of the Mystery Book Club, which will be facilitated by author Mary Anna Evans.

To participate in our meeting, you must purchase the novel at Big Red Books, and you will receive a 15% discount. Everyone is welcome, whether you’ve finished the book or not. Feel free to bring a snack or beverage.

Thursday Jan 8th, 2026 at 6:30 pm

Literary Fiction Book Club

Join us at the shop for a discussion of What We Can Know by Ian McEwan. To participate in our meeting, you must purchase the novel at Big Red Books, and you will receive a 15% discount. Everyone is welcome, whether you’ve finished the book or not. Feel free to bring a snack or beverage. RSVP at bigredbooksny@gmail.com to let us know you’ll be there.

Friday Jan 9th, 2026

4:30 pm

Writing Playshop for Children (Ages 8-12)

Start the new year with a winter collaborative playwriting class for Middle-graders (3rd-6th). Teacher Victoria Oltarsh, sci-fi author of the award-winning book, The Boy and the Secret of the Stars, published lyricist, and lifelong playwriting and theater teacher will guide the young writers in how to write a 10-minute play. At session’s end, there will be a table read of the students’ plays in a showcase for family and friends.

Class schedule: January 9, 16, 23 and 30. Register by phone, 845-875-7707, or stop by the store.

Wednesday Jan 14th, 2026 at 6:30 pm

An Evening of Poetry with Iain Haley Pollock & Carey Salerno

Iain Haley Pollock is the author of three poetry collections, Spit Back a Boy (2011), Ghost, Like a Place, and the forthcoming All the Possible Bodies (Alice James, September 2025). He serves as Director of the MFA Program in Creative Writing at Manhattanville University in Purchase, NY.

Carey Salerno serves as the executive director & publisher of Alice James Books where she has been dedicated to broadening the spectrum of the American poetic voice since 2008. Salerno is a frequent guest of writing programs, conferences, and festivals, where she conducts consultations and delivers talks on publishing arts, editing, poetry, manuscript compilation, and other topics. You may find her essays, poems–and articles and interviews regarding her literary and publishing work–in print and online, including in NPR, Poets & Writers, and American Poetry Review.

 

Upcoming Events at Sparkle Bookstore

The Sparkle Bookstore, a new independent bookshop at 642 Main St., Sparkill, NY, 10976, will be hosting several community events in the next few weeks of the fall. This release highlights upcoming November events. See the  full schedule at https://sparklebooks.store/events.

Saturday December 20, 2025 at 1:00 PM

Meet Paul Hellman

Meet Paul Hellman and check out his debut book, The Zone. Paul shares the history of his family in his The Zone to give readers the knowledge, inspiration, and courage to pursue entrepreneurial freedom.

Sunday December 21, 2025 at 4:00 PM

Meet the Iron Love Team: Kenyatta Jones-Arietta and Tiera Rice

Self-publication now involves a broad spectrum of possibilities. How does an indie author navigate the choices? Join Kenyatta Jones-Arietta and Tiera Rice, the team that produced Kenyatta’s book Iron Love, for a discussion of the journey.

Kenyatta lives in New York with her husband of 25 years, Rudy, their two sons, their Great Dane Bruce, and a family that inspires every chapter.

Tiera Rice-Royo is an indie author, coach, and mentor based in Rockland County, NY. A proud wife and mama of three, she fills her days with writing, painting, and crafting intention-based candles. A U.S. Army veteran and cancer survivor, Tiera’s journey has been shaped by resilience and a deep love for storytelling. Through her books, art, and coaching, she empowers others to reconnect with their voice, embrace their truth, and live with authenticity.

Friday January 16, 2026 at 5:00 PM

Board Game Night with Banditos Gaming

Join us for an evening of tabletop fun at Sparkle Bookstore, hosted by Banditos Gaming! Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a total beginner, you’re welcome at the table. We’ll have a curated library of games available and folks on hand to teach rules, facilitate play, and match players with games that suit their interests. No experience necessary, just bring your curiosity and a willingness to play.

Saturday January 17, 2026 at 3:00 PM

Reading with Michael Swanwick

Mischling the thief races through time to defeat three trolls before the sun rises for the first time and turns the inhabitants of her city into stone . . . A scientist is on the run from assassins because her research in merging human intelligence with sentient AI is too dangerous . . . An aging veteran obtains a military weapon from his past: a VR robotic leopard, through which he rediscovers the consequences of the hunt . . . In the biggest heist in the history of the universe, a loser Trickster (and the girlfriend who is better than he deserves) sets out to violate every trope and expectation of action possible.

Michael Swanwick is one of the most acclaimed science fiction and fantasy short-story writers of his generation. His work has also been translated into more than ten languages. He lives in Pennsylvania.

Purchase books in advance here or in-store on the day of the event.

 

Beth Am Temple adds casual Fahrbrengen

Beth Am Temple adds a series of casual Fahrbrengen gatherings for 2026 beginning on Friday, January 2 at 5:30 pm in the Social Hall. The Shabbat gatherings will continue on February 6, March 6, a Passover theme on April 3, May 1, June 5, August 7 and September 4. The informal, non-prayer book meetings for all ages include songs, noshes, learning and discussion. Kaddish will be recited. The public is welcome to join this 50-minute, informal Shabbat program.

Beth Am Temple is a reform temple, which embraces tradition and draws its congregation from throughout Rockland County, NY and northern Bergen County, NJ. It is located on the New York/New Jersey border at 60 East Madison Ave in Pearl River, NY. Its website is: https://www.bethamtemple.org..

 

Free Veterans Holiday Dinner Bags

Special “Thanks to Vets” food bags will include ham, potatoes, and vegetables. Please bring Veterans ID card. Please RSVP to supervisor@clarkstown.gov or 845-639-2050.

This event will take place on December 20th from 9am – 11am at the Street Community Center, 31 Zukor Road, New City

Sponsored by: Veterans Angels of Hope, Town of Clarkstown, Schultz Ford, People to People, Durso Trucking and Rockland Green.

 

Giving Back in Rockland

Food Bins

The County of Rockland, and the Towns of Clarkstown, Haverstraw, Orangetown, Ramapo and Stony Point also launched a countywide food drive. Please only donate nonperishable, unopened, and non expired items. Donation bins are available at the following locations:

 

Robert L. Yeager Health Center Building A Lobby

50 Sanatorium Road, Pomona

 

Allison-Parris County Office Building

11 New Hempstead Rd., New City

 

Clarkstown Town Hall

10 Maple Ave, New City, 2nd Floor Lobby

 

Haverstraw Town Hall

1 Rosman Road, Garnerville

 

Orangetown Town Hall

26 W. Orangeburg Rd., Orangeburg

 

Ramapo Town Hall

237 Route 59, Suffern/Airmont

 

Stony Point Town Hall

74 East Main Street, Stony Point

 

Rockland Community Against Hunger (RCAH)

Louis Kurtz Civic Center, 9 N. Main Street, Spring Valley

17 West Board Street, West Haverstraw

 

Nyack Food Cupboard

16 Jefferson St, Nyack

 

Catholic Charities Community

Services of Rockland

78 Hudson Ave, Haverstraw

 

Clover Stadium

1 Phil Tisi Way, Pomona

 

Clothes Bins

Going through your closet? As the weather gets colder, donate your old coats and jackets to those who are in need. Let’s give back to our neighbors as the holiday season nears.

 

Helping Hands for the Homeless of Rockland

Darden Center, Spring Valley, NY 10977

 

Nanuet Donation Box

Nanuet Mall S, Nanuet

 

People to People

121 W Nyack Rd STE 1, Nanuet

 

To make a monetary donation:

https://uwrc.org/food/

 

Sign up to volunteer:

https://www.rocklandhunger.org/get-involved/rocklandhunger.org/get-involved/

Rockland Teen Leads First-Ever Hanukkah to Suffern Parade

When the menorah-topped float turned the corner onto Lafayette Avenue, the crowd erupted in cheers. But it wasn’t just holiday spirit. For many Jewish teens and families lining the sidewalks, it was the first time they had seen their identity reflected in a public holiday celebration.

Aaron Friedman, a high school senior at Clarkstown North, lead the initiative to create the first-ever Hanukkah float in the town’s annual holiday parade, a procession traditionally filled with holiday lights and snowmen. The entry won the parade’s Best Community Spirit Award.

“This is a great way to push forward and show those people that there are Jews in Rockland, and we are proud,” Friedman said. “It’s okay to be yourself, to show that you’re Jewish, and be passionate about God.”

The float included a giant menorah, festive lights, and four accompanying cars, each with rooftop menorahs. Teens riding on the float handed out menorahs, Hanukkah necklaces, headbands, and themed T-shirts that read: “6, 7, 8 Nights, Keep Adding Light.” The float also featured costumed characters including Judah the Maccabee and dancing Dreidel Men.

Friday’s heartbreaking news from Sydney, where a Chanukah celebration ended in tragedy, has made the moment more poignant.  The teens take inspiration from Rabbi Eli Schlanger, the Australian Chabad rabbi who was among the victims. In response to rising antisemitism in Australia, he said: “Be more Jewish, act more Jewish and appear more Jewish.”

“These teens embody the Jewish resilience that has sustained our people for millennia, and why we will be here forever,” said Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky of Chabad International Headquarters.

Rabbi Shmuel Gancz, who directs CTeen Suffern with his wife Devorah, said the moment was unexpectedly powerful. “We didn’t realize what a big deal this was until we got there,” he said. “The joy it brought, people were shouting, crying, hugging. One mom grabbed her son’s hand and cried when she saw the menorah. That kind of visibility can uplift a person, a community.”

“My inspiration are my CTeen rabbi and rebbetzin, who, regardless of the situation are always proud of their heritage,” Friedman said. “They always bring Judaism to everything, and light and joy to every situation we’re in, especially with CTeen.”

The night’s success was made possible with strong community support. “The project was made possible with the support of Mayor Mike Curley and the Suffern Village Board,” Rabbi Gancz said. “It meant the world to be welcomed so warmly.”

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