Events

Year of the Fire Horse Begins: What It Means

Published

3 weeks ago

February 17, 2026

The Year of the Fire Horse, a rare occurrence in the Chinese zodiac cycle that appears only once every 60 years, has officially begun, from February 17, 2026 to February 5, 2027. The last Fire Horse year was in 1966.

In Chinese astrology, the Horse symbolizes strength, independence, and forward momentum. When paired with the element of Fire, those traits are believed to intensify, bringing heightened passion, charisma, and bold energy. Fire Horse years are often associated with leadership, transformation, and a willingness to challenge convention.

Astrologers say the year favors decisive action, authentic self-expression, and pursuing long-held ambitions. The Fire Horse’s influence is described as confident and free-spirited, encouraging individuals to trust their instincts and embrace calculated risks.

As the year unfolds, many will look to harness this dynamic energy—focusing on personal growth, new ventures, and goals that require courage and conviction.

From February 17, 2026 to February 5, 2027,

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