Events

“FUN RUN” to benefit the Larisa Karassik Foundation this Thursday, August 29

Published

7 years ago

August 27, 2019

Photos courtesy of the Larisa Karassik Foundation

NEW CITY, NY – On May 23, 2015, Larisa Karassik, a 13-year-old from Clarkstown, was tragically killed by a drunk driver.

Since then, her mother Anastasia, created the Larisa Karassik Foundation in the hopes that no parent or family ever experience the tragic loss of a child due to the selfish act of those driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs. She speaks with High School students on the dangers of drinking and driving, and tells them Larisa’s story.

Every year, friends and family gather at Rockland Lake State Park for a “Fun Run” in Larisa’s honor. Due to weather the run was postponed, but will be this Thursday at 6:30 pm. The race is in partnership with State Senator David Carlucci and the Rockland Road Runners. (details below)

Family FUN RUN to benefit the Larisa Karassik Foundation. Please Join Us – to Stop Drunk Driving!

Where: Rockland Lake, North Parking Lot

When: August 29, 2019 at 6:30 PM

Please complete the registration form to participate in the Family Fun Run at Rockland Lake on Thursday, August 29th.
Suggested Donation:

$20.00 per person,
$35.00 per family.

It was Memorial Day weekend, and Larisa, like so many others, was enjoying one of the traditional joys of the holiday weekend: going out for ice cream. Larisa, together with her best friend, was seated in the back seat of the car being driven by her father, when a speeding truck ran a stop sign and plowed into the side of their car, killing Larisa and seriously injuring her father and friend. The driver of the truck was drunk and on prescription drugs. Larisa was only 13 years old at the time of that fatal accident.

Learn more about the Larisa Karassik Foundation – HERE.

Events

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

Published

1 month ago

March 11, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

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!

Events

Rare Six-Planet Parade Visible After Sunset Feb. 28

Published

2 months ago

February 28, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

Skywatchers are in for a treat on February 28, just after sunset, as six planets align in a rare and beautiful celestial parade across the evening sky.

The planetary lineup will include Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune.

When and Where to Look

The best viewing window will be approximately 30 to 60 minutes after sunset. Observers should look toward the western to southwestern horizon for the best chance of spotting the planetary alignment.

Mercury and Venus will appear low near the horizon, glowing in the fading twilight. Jupiter and Saturn will shine brighter and higher in the sky, making them easier to spot with the naked eye. Uranus and Neptune, however, are much fainter and may require binoculars or a small telescope for clear viewing.

A Rare Celestial Event

While planets regularly orbit the Sun along roughly the same plane, seeing six visible at once in the evening sky is relatively uncommon. Events like this offer a striking reminder of the vastness and intricate timing of our solar system.

Weather permitting, this alignment promises to be a memorable sight for astronomy enthusiasts and casual stargazers alike.

Step outside, allow your eyes a few minutes to adjust to the darkness, and enjoy this cosmic show — no special equipment required, though a telescope can enhance the experience.