Community

Congers Troop 29 Honors Local Heroes at Gethsemane Cemetery This Memorial Day

Published

11 months ago

May 24, 2025

CONGERS, NY — In a heartfelt Memorial Day tradition, Boy Scout Troop 29 of Congers placed American flags on the graves of veterans and first responders at Gethsemane Cemetery. Their efforts honored the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

Among those remembered was U.S. Army Corporal Justin Garcia, a native of Valley Cottage, NY, whose legacy continues to inspire the Rockland County community.

Justin Garcia was born on July 26, 1980, in Queens, NY. He graduated from St. Thomas Aquinas College in 2003 with a degree in criminal justice. Fulfilling a childhood dream, he enlisted in the U.S. Army shortly after graduation.

While attending college, Justin met his future wife, Michelle. They married in July 2005 at St. Paul’s Church in Congers. Less than a year later, he deployed to Iraq as part of the 1st Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division.

On November 14, 2006, while riding in a Humvee during combat operations in Baghdad, an improvised explosive device (IED) detonated next to the vehicle. Justin and a fellow soldier were killed in the blast. He was just 26 years old.

That Father’s Day, just months before his death, Justin learned he was going to be a father. His son was born three months and two days after Justin’s passing.

Despite losing both parents as a teenager, Justin remained focused on building a better future. He was determined to give his children the love and support he had once lost. His courage, sacrifice, and deep sense of duty reflect the true meaning of Memorial Day.

“We will never forget Cpl. Justin Garcia,” said a local scout leader. “It’s important that our young people understand the cost of freedom and take time to honor those who gave everything for it.”

Through their Memorial Day tribute, Troop 29 shows that remembering our fallen heroes is more than a gesture—it’s a lasting promise to keep their stories alive.

Visit the Rockland Report on Facebook for more photos.

Community

Rockland County Family Injured in Tragic Crash on Way to Florida

Published

3 weeks ago

April 3, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

On March 28, a Rockland County family of five—mother Yuliya, father Yuriy, and their three sons, Deny (15), Mark (12), and Dave (9)—set out for what was meant to be a joyful family vacation to Florida.

Tragically, their journey was cut short when a pickup truck crashed into the back of their vehicle.

Today, two of their young sons, Mark and Dave, are fighting for their lives in critical condition in the ICU at WakeMed Raleigh Campus in North Carolina.

While Yuliya and Yuriy did not suffer severe physical injuries, the emotional toll of this unimaginable tragedy is profound. No parent should ever have to endure this kind of pain and uncertainty.

The Hlovatsky family, along with their friends and loved ones, are asking for prayers and support during this incredibly difficult time. Right now, Mark and Dave’s lives hang in the balance.

A GoFundMe link to support the family is being shared on our Facebook page.

Please keep this family in your thoughts and prayers.

Community

Women’s History Month Spotlight: Katelyn Tuohy – Rockland County’s Record-Breaking Distance Runner

Published

1 month ago

March 12, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

In recent years, few athletes from Rockland County, New York have captured national attention the way Katelyn Tuohy has. From record-breaking high school performances to championship victories at the collegiate level, Tuohy has become one of the most accomplished distance runners of her generation.

Tuohy first rose to prominence while competing for North Rockland High School. As a teenager, she dominated cross country and track competitions across New York and the United States. Her performances regularly shattered course records and national marks, quickly turning her into a household name in high school running circles.

During her high school career, Tuohy earned multiple national honors and repeatedly claimed the prestigious Gatorade National Player of the Year award for girls cross country and track. Her ability to maintain both speed and endurance allowed her to excel in events ranging from the mile to longer distance races. Coaches and analysts frequently described her as one of the most talented high school runners the country had ever seen.

After graduating from North Rockland, Tuohy continued her career at NC State Wolfpack, where she quickly proved that her success was far from over. Competing at the highest level of collegiate athletics, she became a key member of the university’s powerhouse distance program.

Her biggest breakthrough came when she captured the individual title at the NCAA Cross Country Championships, cementing her place among the elite runners in college sports. The victory not only highlighted her consistency and determination but also helped bring national recognition to the NC State program.

Despite competing on a national stage, Tuohy’s story remains closely tied to her roots in Rockland County. Many local runners view her as a role model who demonstrates what dedication, discipline, and perseverance can achieve. Young athletes throughout the region continue to look up to her as proof that world-class talent can come from their own community.

As Tuohy’s career continues to evolve, many expect her to pursue opportunities on the international stage and possibly compete in global championships or future Olympic events. Regardless of where her path leads next, her journey from Rockland County standout to national champion has already secured her place among the most inspiring athletes to come out of the region.

For runners across New York and beyond, Katelyn Tuohy’s success sends a powerful message: with talent, hard work, and determination, even the longest race can be won.

Photo courtesy Wikipedia