Oct. 7 memorial service held in Rockland County

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Communities across the nation gathered to commemorate the tragic events of Oct. 7, including in Pomona. Over 1,500 people were at Clover Stadium for a memorial, with almost every seat facing the stage filled. "People were literally looking for places to congregate throughout the state of New Jersey and New York,” said Sharon Kates, an attendee of the memorial. “To remember together and to be there for each other feels really good and comforting.” Kates said it was emotional to be at the memorial, but it was important for her to attend. "As hard as it is to experience this day and realize this day, it's important for us to all be together,” she says. People at the memorial prayed, placed candles, waved flags, watched videos and sang songs. Monday's memorial service was hosted by the Jewish Federation and Foundation of Rockland County. Community members, students and religious leaders in the county spoke at the memorial. They were all calling for the release of the over 100 hostages and for the war to end. "Our world has changed and we're recognizing how it's changed, how it's changed us and what we need to do to be strong together,” says Ari Rosenblum, with the Jewish Federation and Foundation of Rockland County. Other memorials in the area were held in South Salem and Mamaroneck. "