Community

Why Rockland Residents Still Call It the Tappan Zee Bridge

Published

3 months ago

July 30, 2026

For more than 60 years, the Tappan Zee Bridge was more than a way across the Hudson River. It was a landmark that shaped Rockland County’s growth, connected communities, and became part of everyday life for generations of residents.

Opened on December 15, 1955, the original Tappan Zee Bridge linked South Nyack and Tarrytown, providing a vital connection between Rockland and Westchester counties. At the time, the 3.1-mile bridge was the longest in New York State and represented a major engineering achievement.

The bridge helped transform Rockland from a largely rural county into a growing suburban community. As commuting became easier, towns such as Nanuet, New City, Pearl River, and Clarkstown saw rapid residential and commercial development.

The name itself carries the history of the region. “Tappan” refers to the Indigenous Tappan people who lived along the Hudson River, while “Zee” is the Dutch word for sea, describing the river’s unusually wide expanse at that location.

By the early 2000s, the aging bridge was carrying far more traffic than engineers originally anticipated. After decades of debate, a replacement was built, with the new crossing opening in 2017 and 2018. The structure was officially named the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge.

But for many Rockland residents, the name change never replaced the memories attached to the original bridge.

It was the bridge people crossed to go to work, visit family, head to shopping trips, and begin road trips. It was where generations of residents sat in traffic, watched sunsets over the Hudson, and knew they were almost home.

Names are tied to memories, and for many people who grew up in Rockland County, “the Tappan Zee” is more than a bridge name—it is a connection to a time, a place, and a shared experience.

The new bridge may carry a different official name, but in the hearts of many residents, the crossing will always be the Tappan Zee Bridge.

Photo by Allison Weiss

Community

Milla News: Rockland County’s Unofficial Mayor

Published

3 days ago

October 12, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

Milla News has become one of Rockland County’s most recognizable social media personalities, earning a loyal following of more than 40,000 people on Instagram and building a reputation for making local news engaging for audiences of all ages.

Affectionately known as the “unofficial Mayor of Rockland County,” Milla has found a unique way to connect residents with the people, places and stories that shape their community.

Beyond his growing presence on social media, Milla is a co-owner of New York Is a Nationality, a popular clothing brand that celebrates New York identity and culture.

A graduate of Ramapo High School, Milla is also focused on giving back to the community that helped shape him. Through his work with local high school students, he shares insights into building a brand, using social media effectively and developing entrepreneurial skills.

By combining local news, social media and mentorship, Milla is helping inspire the next generation of young entrepreneurs while bringing Rockland County residents together through stories that reflect their community.

Community

Family Emergency Preparedness: Is Your Family Ready?

Published

4 days ago

October 11, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

Emergencies Can Happen Anytime: Is Your Family Prepared?

Emergencies rarely happen when it is convenient. A severe storm, extended power outage, house fire, medical emergency or other unexpected event can quickly disrupt everyday life. Taking a little time now to prepare can make a major difference when something goes wrong.

Here are some simple steps every household should consider.

Build an Emergency Kit

Keep basic supplies in a place that is easy to access. Your kit should include:

Bottled water and several days of nonperishable food
Flashlights and extra batteries
A battery-powered or hand-crank radio
First-aid supplies
Necessary medications and medical supplies
Phone chargers and backup power banks
Blankets and warm clothing
Copies of important documents
Cash in small denominations
Basic tools and household supplies

Remember to check your supplies periodically and replace expired food, batteries and medications.

Have a Plan for Power Outages

Winter storms, high winds and equipment failures can leave homes without electricity for hours or even days. Know where your flashlights are, keep devices charged and have alternative ways to stay warm.

If you use a generator, never operate it inside a home, garage or other enclosed space. Generators must be kept outdoors and away from doors, windows and vents because of the risk of deadly carbon monoxide poisoning.

Know What to Do in a House Fire

Make sure everyone in your household knows two ways to get out of every bedroom and where to meet outside.

Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms regularly and replace batteries as recommended. If a fire occurs, get outside and stay outside. Do not go back inside for pets or belongings.

Prepare for Severe Weather

Severe thunderstorms, high winds, flooding and winter storms can develop quickly. Keep an eye on weather alerts and know where you would go in your home if you need to shelter.

During a severe storm, bring outdoor furniture and other loose objects inside when possible. Avoid driving through flooded roads — even a relatively small amount of moving water can be dangerous.

Be Ready for a Medical Emergency

Keep a well-stocked first-aid kit at home and learn basic first aid and CPR if you can.

Make sure family members know where important medications are located and have a list of medications, allergies and emergency contacts readily available. For a life-threatening emergency, call 911.

Make a Family Communication Plan

If an emergency separates family members, everyone should know how to reconnect.

Choose an emergency contact outside your immediate area and establish a meeting place. Make sure children know their full name, address and how to call 911.

Don’t Forget Your Pets

Pets need an emergency plan, too. Keep food, water, medications, leashes, carriers and copies of veterinary records with your emergency supplies. Identify pet-friendly shelters or hotels before an emergency occurs.

A Few Minutes of Preparation Can Save Precious Time

You do not have to prepare everything at once. Start with a basic emergency kit, make a family communication plan and learn what emergencies are most likely in your area.

The goal isn’t to expect the worst. It’s to be ready so that, when an emergency does happen, you can focus on keeping yourself and your loved ones safe.