Events

Mismatched, Bright, Bold Rock Your Socks for World Down Syndrome Day March 21st

Published

12 months ago

March 21, 2025

On March 21st, make a statement with your socks! Whether you choose mismatched pairs or bright, bold colors, the goal is to stand out. When someone asks about your socks, you can proudly say, “I’m wearing them to raise awareness for Down syndrome.” It’s a perfect chance to share meaningful information and spread awareness.

Here are some key facts to know: Down syndrome occurs in about 1 in 700 live births and is a random event, not caused by anything a parent did or didn’t do. People with Down syndrome can live long, healthy lives, often into their 60s or 70s. They possess a wide range of abilities and can engage in educational, social, and recreational activities. Adults with Down syndrome can work in various jobs. While they may face higher risks for certain health issues like heart defects, gastrointestinal problems, and leukemia, early intervention and support can help children with Down syndrome achieve their full potential. There are plenty of resources available to assist families and individuals. Down syndrome is not typically inherited, meaning it doesn’t run in families. People with Down syndrome lead fulfilling, meaningful lives and have distinct personalities and talents.

Events

Rare Six-Planet Parade Visible After Sunset Feb. 28

Published

1 week 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.

Events

February 26, 1993 World Trade Center Bombing Remembered at 9/11 Memorial

Published

2 weeks ago

February 26, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

Thirty-three years have passed since terrorists first attacked the World Trade Center on a cold February afternoon in 1993, but the memories of those killed remain vivid for family members, first responders, and survivors.

On Feb. 26, 1993, at approximately 12:18 p.m., terrorists led by Ramzi Yousef detonated a rental truck packed with roughly 1,200 pounds of explosives in the public parking garage beneath the North Tower. The powerful blast tore through multiple sub-basement levels, killing six innocent people and injuring more than 1,000 others. Tens of thousands of workers were forced to evacuate as thick, black smoke filled stairwells and corridors throughout both towers.

The attackers intended for the explosion to topple the North Tower into the South Tower, a catastrophic plan that ultimately failed. However, the devastation near the blast zone was immediate and deadly.

The six victims killed in the bombing were John DiGiovanni, Robert Kirkpatrick of Suffern, NY, Stephen A. Knapp, William Macko, Wilfredo Mercado, and Monica Rodriguez, who was seven months pregnant at the time.

On Thursday afternoon, hundreds gathered at the 9/11 Memorial Plaza in Lower Manhattan for the annual remembrance ceremony. Family members of the victims stood alongside first responders and Port Authority employees who were present during the 1993 attack. Together, they honored the lives lost in what would become a grim precursor to future acts of terrorism on American soil.

Though the 1993 bombing did not bring down the towers, history would later mark it as a harbinger of the devastation that followed on September 11, 2001. On that day, terrorists succeeded in destroying the Twin Towers, killing nearly 3,000 people and forever changing the nation.

More than three decades later, the 1993 bombing remains a solemn reminder of the lives taken, the resilience of New York City, and the enduring commitment to remember those who were lost.

Photo by Amy Dreher