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Arthur R. Aldrich, Publisher of OurTown Newspaper, Passes Away at 83

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Suffern – Arthur R. Aldrich, a respected newspaper publisher, died peacefully Monday, April 12th, at the age of 83 with his family by his side.

Born in Yonkers, Arthur graduated from White Plains High School and went on to attended New York University.

He worked as editor of several newspapers including the Customart Press, the Eastchester Record, and the Rockland Leader.

After marrying Elaine (Nardeccia) in 1965, the couple moved from New Rochelle to Suffern NY where they quickly became active members and leaders in the Rockland County community, and Unitarian Society.

In 1973 Arthur started a weekly community paper called “Our Town” based in Pearl River. The paper was widely respected for journalism and creative writing including their popular restaurant reviews.

In the early 90s he expanded his business outside of Orangetown to include other parts of Rockland and Bergen when he acquired the publication of “The Home and Store News” based in Ramsey NJ from John Dater.

Arthur was happiest when behind the keys of the piano and organ. He would perform regularly at Good Samaritan Hospital as a volunteer.

Arthur was also a professor and educator, teaching college classes in advertising, marketing, and business. In later years he offered defensive driving classes to many. He had a love for books, classic music & film, as well as the theater.

In his leisure time he would produce lecture series on historical events, cultural arts, and the history of radio broadcasting that he would give through the Elder Hostel organization, and at local libraries.

Arthur also worked as stage director for many local playhouses, and volunteered his time every year to Camp Venture to help raise money for their ongoing effort of providing opportunity and family-like care for people of all ages with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Arthur is survived by his wife Elaine, son Arthur and his wife Christina, and grandchildren Daniel and Alec Aldrich. He also leaves behind niece Jean Migdal, nephew Michael Migdal and his wife Jane.

He continued working right up until the time of his death and will be greatly missed by his family, friends, and community.

A public memorial service is being planned for a later date.

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Pearl River Food Truck Festival May 9: Rockland County’s Must-Visit Food Event

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PEARL RIVER, N.Y. — The Spring 2026 Pearl River Food Truck Festival is set to return on Saturday, May 9, bringing a wide variety of food, drinks, and community activity to Central Avenue Field.

The event will run from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. and is expected to draw visitors from across Rockland County and the surrounding Hudson Valley.

Organizers have launched a new website for the festival, where attendees can preview vendors and plan their visit:
www.pearlriverftf.com

This year’s lineup features a mix of returning favorites and new vendors offering everything from seafood and barbecue to desserts and specialty drinks. Among those scheduled to appear are Red Barn Cidery, Cousins Maine Lobster, Grumpy Dumpling Co., That Cheese Lady, and Three Little Pigs BBQ.

Additional participants include Sweet D’s, Maillard Food Truck, Liquid Fables, Nelson Gourmet House, New York Soda Jerks, Crave NY Wings, Prince Popover, Cooper’s Daughter Spirits, Uncle Bob’s Kettle Corn, Manor Sangria, EmpaBake Empanadas, Doc Pickle LLC, Irie Delights Bakery, Crannog Apiary, Chef J’s Latin Dragon, Lara’s Kitchen, Pretzel Boy, and Stony Point Brewing Co.

The festival has grown into one of the more popular seasonal events in the area, offering a family-friendly atmosphere with a focus on local businesses and regional food vendors.

Admission details and additional updates are available on the festival’s website.

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Christopher Vergine Named Businessperson of the Year – Rockland County St. Patrick’s Day Parade

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Congratulations to Chris Vergine on being named Businessperson of the Year for the Rockland County St. Patrick’s Day Parade!

Christopher Vergine is a lifelong resident of Pearl River, New York and comes from a family with deep, multigenerational ties to the community. He grew up in Pearl River alongside his brothers, including Larry Vergine and Andrew Vergine, in a household where family, service, and community involvement were central values.

Chris has dedicated much of his life to serving others. Since becoming a volunteer firefighter at just 16 years old, he has taken on numerous leadership roles, including:

  • Past President of the Excelsior Engine Company of Pearl River

  • Former Captain of the Pearl River Fire Police

  • Active member of the Rockland County Fire Police Association

Beyond his fire service, Chris remains deeply involved in local civic organizations, including the Pearl River Elks and the American Legion in Pearl River.

Professionally, Chris is an owner of Wyman-Fisher Funeral Home, where he continues his commitment to helping families in the community during their most difficult times.

This recognition highlights not only Chris’s success in business but also his lifelong dedication to service, volunteerism, and the people of Pearl River. A well-deserved honor—congratulations again!

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