9/11 Memorial at RCC to Feature Sculpture

On this 11th anniversary, Rockland Community College invites the public to join in dedicating a new 9/11 Memorial Garden.

The garden is intended as a place of quiet reflection, dedicated to those who perished in the attacks on September 11, 2001, and to honor all who serve to keep America safe. The one hour outdoor ceremony (weather permitting) will be be held in the area behind the Technology Center at 8 a.m. on Tuesday, September 11, 2012.

During the ceremony, the garden’s centerpiece sculpture, “Spirit Rising,” by Rockland County artist Eric Laxman, will be unveiled. The inspiring 7 foot tall sculpture incorporates several pieces of steel from the World Trade Center ground zero site. There will be an address by College President Dr. Cliff Wood, musical interludes, and Poet Laureate of Rockland County Dan Masterson will read his poem, “Out of the Blue.”

Masterson is also an RCC Professor and the college’s poet-in-residence. The names of 9/11 victims with ties to Rockland County will be read by student veterans Steven Capone, Katherine Dorfman, Kyle Verdeur, John Vitale and Jonathan Winfield (all USMC); Erin Walsh, USA; and Justin Chimento, USN.

Other garden elements include ceramic tiles created by Cathy McErlean-Goddard and landscaping by Don Ruggiere, Omni Landscaping. The concept for the 9/11 Memorial Garden was designed by Page Simon, RCC professor of Art.

Throughout the garden area are specially inscribed bricks, with each brick personally dedicated by a donation to provide scholarships for students in several first responder programs at RCC: Emergency Medical Service, Fire Protection Technology, Emergency Management, and Criminal Justice. To designate a brick to be inscribed with your message, please contact Don Cairns of the RCC Foundation at 845- 574-4576.

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