Events

Join the 4th Annual Shine the Light Walk for Domestic Violence Awareness – October 16, 2025

Published

6 months ago

October 14, 2025

Rockland County, NY — In honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), the Center for Safety & Change, together with hundreds of survivors, advocates, and community supporters, will lead the 4th Annual Shine the Light Solidarity Bridge Walk on Thursday, October 16, 2025.

This powerful event will bring together organizations including local law enforcement, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.® Pi Iota Omega Chapter AWAKE, Hope’s Door, Moms Demand Action, My Sisters’ Place, Pace Women’s Justice Center, Putnam Northern Westchester Women’s Resource Center, and Actress, Author & Survivor April Hernandez Castillo, among others.

The walk will begin promptly at 12:00 PM from both the Rockland and Westchester sides of the Mario M. Cuomo Bridge aka The Tappan Zee Bridge, with participants meeting in the center for a special ceremony of solidarity, remembrance, and hope. The gathering starts at 11:30 a.m. on both ends.

Meeting Location (Rockland side):
Path entrance at Franklin Street & Clinton Avenue in Nyack (street parking available).

Why We Walk

Domestic violence affects millions globally:

1 in 3 women experience physical or sexual violence by an intimate partner.
1 in 15 children are exposed to domestic violence in the home.
The CDC reports over $727 million in lost productivity and nearly 8 million lost workdays annually due to domestic violence in the U.S. alone.

By joining this walk, we not only raise awareness, but also honor victims, celebrate survivors, and stand united for change.

How You Can Help

Wear purple to show your support.
Spread the word using #ShineTheLight2025.
Visit www.centerforsafetyandchange.org for more information or to get involved.

Together, we can shine a light on domestic violence and work toward a safer, more just future for all.

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.