Community

How to Perform a Wellness Check on Elderly Neighbors During Extreme Cold

Published

3 months ago

January 22, 2026

As freezing temperatures impact the area, community members are encouraged to look out for elderly neighbors who may be more vulnerable during extreme cold weather. A simple wellness check can help ensure someone is safe, warm, and has access to basic needs.

Start With a Friendly Check-In
A wellness check doesn’t need to be formal. Knocking on a neighbor’s door, making a phone call, or sending a quick text can go a long way. Keeping the conversation casual helps avoid making someone feel uncomfortable or alarmed.

Ask Simple, Supportive Questions
During a check-in, ask gentle questions to assess needs. Confirm that heat and electricity are working, medications and food are available, and that the neighbor has a way to reach someone if help is needed.

Offer Practical Assistance
Offering specific help makes it easier for someone to accept support. This may include picking up groceries or prescriptions, shoveling walkways, or helping adjust a thermostat or space heater safely.

Create a Short-Term Check-In Plan
During prolonged cold spells, consider setting up a regular check-in schedule, such as a daily call or knock. Exchanging emergency contact information can also provide peace of mind for both parties.

Know the Warning Signs
Take action if something seems wrong. Warning signs include no response to repeated check-ins, a home that feels unusually cold, confusion or distress, or uncollected mail. If there is concern for immediate safety, call 911. For non-emergencies, local police departments can perform welfare checks when requested.

Respect Privacy and Independence
Wellness checks should always be respectful. Ask permission before helping and avoid making assumptions. Supporting independence while staying alert to safety concerns is key.

A Small Action That Makes a Big Difference
Cold weather can be especially challenging for older adults living alone. Taking a few moments to check on a neighbor can help prevent emergencies and strengthen community connections during extreme temperatures.

Community

Rockland County Family Injured in Tragic Crash on Way to Florida

Published

2 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