Rockland County School Districts, including BOCES, are on a two-hour delay this morning due to weather conditions. East Ramapo Central is working remotely.
News
Concern Over ICE Raids Potentially Coming to Hudson Valley
Concern is brewing over potential ICE raids in Rockland after the president unleashed the agency all over the country to make good on his campaign promise to get rid of illegal immigrants. Rockland Congressman Mike Lawler of the Hudson Valley’s 17th district says it’s a crisis…
Rockland County Sheriff Lou Falco says people from area schools and colleges have reached out to him for advice on handling the situation if ICE comes to their campuses looking for students or anyone else, but he says, he’s gotten no notification so far…
The BBC reports federal officers have picked up thousands of undocumented migrants since President Trump took office, with raids focusing on major cities including New York, Chicago, Denver and Los Angeles.
Trump Administration Weighing Canceling Approvals for MTA’s Congestion Pricing
Congestion pricing could be a thing of the past, as the Trump administration is reportedly considering ending the new tolling system that launched in early January. That’s according to the Guardian and the New York Times. President Donald Trump is considering pulling the federal approvals that gave the green light to the plan, which tolls cars entering the zone below 60th street nine dollars. Earlier this month, Assemblyman Patrick Carroll of the 96th District, covering Clarkstown and parts of Haverstraw and Orangetown, said Rockland commuters put more into the system than they get out of it…
Congressman Mike Lawler of the Hudson Valley’s 17th district, who met with the president in Florida earlier this month to discuss congestion pricing and other issues, applauded the news. The move to remove federal approval could start a legal battle between New York State and the Feds. New York Governor Kathy Hochul and the president are expected to talk about it next week.
Frawley Honored with NYS Senate Commendation Award
Rockland County, NY – Chief Assistant District Attorney Patrick (Pat) Frawley has been recognized for his lifelong dedication to justice and public safety with a New York State Senate Commendation Award, presented by New York Senator Bill Weber. The award acknowledges Frawley’s extensive career in law enforcement and prosecution, highlighting his impact on Rockland County’s criminal justice system.
Frawley’s career began in the Orangetown Police Department, where he served as a detective and worked on high-profile cases. His investigative skills and commitment to public safety led to his transition into the Rockland County District Attorney’s Office, where he now serves as Chief Assistant District Attorney. In this role, he has played a key part in prosecuting complex cases and implementing strategies to enhance public safety.
Beyond the courtroom, Frawley has been instrumental in initiatives aimed at strengthening school security and has participated in training programs with top law enforcement agencies worldwide. His expertise and leadership have contributed significantly to Rockland County’s efforts to combat crime and protect residents.
Weber, who presented the award, praised Frawley’s contributions. He said, “from his decorated career as a detective to his leadership in the District Attorney’s Office, Pat has dedicated his life to justice and public safety. His work has made Rockland County stronger and safer.”
The award presentation was attended by Rockland County District Attorney Tom Walsh, who commended Frawley’s dedication and service to the community.
STAC Expands STEM Offerings with New Graduate Programs in Exercise Science
SPARKILL, N.Y. — St. Thomas Aquinas College (STAC) is expanding its academic portfolio with the launch of its first-ever STEM Master’s programs in Exercise Science, set to begin in Fall 2025. These new graduate offerings—designed to build upon the College’s existing undergraduate Exercise Science program—aim to equip students with the skills needed to evaluate, design, and implement exercise programs tailored to various health needs and performance goals.
“The launch of our new graduate programs in Exercise Science reflects our unwavering commitment to academic excellence and innovation,” said Ken Daly, President of St. Thomas Aquinas College. “As we introduce our first-ever STEM Master’s programs, we are equipping students with the knowledge and skills to tackle pressing challenges in health and wellness. These programs embody our mission to prepare students for impactful careers while advancing the greater good.”
The initiative is part of STAC’s broader “ADVANCE: Graduate and Certificate Programs for Lifelong Learners” initiative, which provides affordable and accessible educational opportunities for students pursuing advanced degrees and professional development.
The new graduate offerings include:
- Master of Science (MS) in Exercise Science (33 credits)
- Advanced Certificate in Exercise Science (12 credits)
Courses will be offered in a hybrid format, combining in-person evening classes with online learning to accommodate working professionals and students with varied schedules.
Graduates of the Master’s program will be prepared for careers in:
- Exercise Physiology
- Clinical Exercise Science
- Wellness Coordination
- Strength and Conditioning Coaching
- Sports Science and Research
“As the healthcare landscape continues to prioritize preventive and holistic approaches, the demand for exercise scientists with advanced degrees is expected to rise steadily,” said Dr. Bianca Wentzell, Dean of the School of STEM at STAC. “Our programs will provide students with the expertise needed to excel in this field.”
To support affordability and attract top talent, STAC is offering special financial incentives for early applicants:
- Students who apply to the MS in Exercise Science program by March 15, 2025, will receive a $10,000 scholarship toward their degree.
- The Advanced Certificate in Exercise Science will be available at a 50% tuition discount.
These financial aid opportunities reflect STAC’s commitment to accessibility in higher education and aim to ease the financial burden for students entering this growing field.
The new graduate programs align with STAC’s broader investment in STEM education, which has grown significantly since the establishment of its School of STEM in 2021. The College has introduced multiple initiatives aimed at enhancing hands-on learning, including:
- Exercise Is Medicine On Campus Initiative – promoting education and awareness around exercise and physical activity.
- STEM Exploration Program for High School Students – encouraging early exposure to STEM careers.
- STEM Advisory Board – connecting students with industry professionals.
- SKAE Astronomy Center (opening Fall 2025) – providing research and experiential learning through a state-of-the-art telescope.
Prospective students are encouraged to visit the MS in Exercise Science webpage and complete an interest form. Additionally, STAC will host an informational panel discussion, “Exercise Science & Health Innovation: Transforming Modern Wellness,” on February 5, 2025.
For more details, interested applicants can contact Dana Caponong, M.A., Assistant Director of Graduate Admissions, at dcaponon@stac.edu or 845-398-4220.
With the launch of these new programs, St. Thomas Aquinas College continues to solidify its reputation as a leader in STEM education, providing students with cutting-edge learning experiences and career-ready skills in the field of Exercise Science. The expansion also highlights the College’s ongoing efforts to bridge academia and industry, fostering innovation and professional development for the next generation of health and wellness professionals.