Events

RCC’s Hospitality and Culinary Arts Center Unveils 2024 Food Enthusiast Program

Published

2 years ago

January 30, 2024

Rockland Community College’s Hospitality and Culinary Arts Center is excited to introduce the 2024 Food Enthusiast Program, a series of cooking lessons available to food lovers throughout the county. The popular program was recognized as the “Best Cooking Class” in Hudson Valley Magazine’s 2022 Best of Hudson Valley competition, while Chef’s Pencil, an international food magazine, ranked RCC’s Culinary Arts program sixth in their top ten programs in New York.

The inaugural class, “Dinner & a Quickie” with Chef Steve Brunner, is scheduled for February 8th from 6:30 to 9:00 pm at the Center on 70 Main Street Nyack, NY. Chef Steve Brunner will reveal roasting and grilling secrets for a delicious meal. Attendees will be treated to snacks upon arrival. Attendees will be whipping up their own culinary masterpiece and taking home their personalized meals. Mark your calendar for other Food Enthusiast Program events, including:

February 29 – Simple Sauté Skills
March 14 – Travel to Tuscany
March 28 – Spring Culinary Creations
April 11 – Delightful Doughs Workshop
May 2 – Springtime BBQ Mastery
May 16 – Savory Tart Techniques

Whether you are a seasoned chef or a culinary novice, our classes offer something for everyone. All food, equipment, and supplies are provided, and attendees will have the option to taste the food on-site or take home a portion of each recipe. The cost is $70 per person.

To register, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/food-enthusiast-classes-1558789.

For questions, contact the Nyack Hospitality and Culinary Art Center’s director, Mark Davidoff, at 845-875-7571 or mark.davidoff@sunyrockland.edu.

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.