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Megan Leavey, CPL (Ret. USMC), & Rex Statue

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6 years ago

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HAVERSTRAW, NY – The statue is located at Haverstraw Bay County Park in Rockland County, New York and is purposely set back on overwatch of the sacred ground of the Rockland County Gulf War/War on Terror Monument.

Leavey is well known for her fight to keep Rex following her service in Iraq, which was portrayed in the 2017 Hollywood film “Megan Leavey.”

The film starring, Kate Mara as Leavey told her inspiring story.

Leavey and Sgt. Rex completed two six-month tours in Iraq and more than 100 missions together.

Towards the end of their second tour in 2006, the duo was wounded in the line of duty.

Insurgents watching from a rooftop detonated an IED (Improvised Explosive Device) as they watched Leavey and Rex in front of a patrol sweeping the area.

With a full year left to her enlistment in the Marine Corps, Leavey completed physical therapy along with Rex, and helped train fellow dog handlers preparing for their future deployments.

Leavey was then discharged in December 2007 from the Marine Corps and unfortunately, she could not take Rex back home with her.

Rex was unable to deploy anymore, but was still able to work stateside at Camp Pendleton.

He was deemed “not adoptable” in his medical records, so toward the end of Rex’s service, it was unclear what his future would be.

After involvement from Rockland County veteran advocate, Jerry Donnellan and instrumental efforts by U.S. Sen. Schumer, Rex was granted retirement and entrusted to Leavey.

Leavey and Rex were able to spend the last eight months of his life together at her home in New York.

Rex, a German Shepherd passed away in December of 2012 and the pair shared a special bond serving two tours in Iraq together where they carried out sweeps for explosives.

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New City Bowl Welcomes Jon Hamm During Filming of Apple TV+ Series Your Friends & Neighbors

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9 hours ago

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May 10, 2026

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For generations, New City Bowl & Batting Cages has been a hometown favorite in Rockland County, offering classic family entertainment in the heart of New City. Established in 1960, the bowling alley has remained a community gathering spot where friends and families come together for league nights, birthday parties, arcade games, batting cages, and casual nights out. Under owner Alice Lenna’s leadership, the venue has continued to modernize while keeping its nostalgic neighborhood charm alive.

Recently, the local landmark received a touch of Hollywood when actor Jon Hamm visited during filming for the Apple TV+ drama series Your Friends & Neighbors. The show, which stars Hamm and was filmed throughout New York’s Hudson Valley and Westchester areas, has brought national attention to several local locations.

During production, Hamm spent time at New City Bowl filming scenes for the series, creating excitement throughout the community. Photos of owner Alice Lenna with the Emmy-winning actor quickly became a memorable moment for local residents and fans of the show alike. The appearance highlighted how New City Bowl continues to be more than just a bowling alley — it’s a recognizable piece of the community with a character and atmosphere worthy of the screen.

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Two Bald Eagles Spotted Soaring Over Rockland County, Captured in Stunning Photo

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4 months ago

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January 19, 2026

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ROCKLAND COUNTY, NY — A powerful symbol of American wildlife was recently spotted soaring high above Rockland County, as two bald eagles were captured in flight in a striking local photograph.

The image, taken by Rockland County photographer Owey Cramsie Jr., shows the pair of bald eagles gliding through the sky — a sight that has become increasingly common in the Hudson Valley but remains awe-inspiring for residents and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

Once endangered, bald eagles have made a remarkable comeback in New York State, particularly along the Hudson River corridor and surrounding waterways that provide ample food sources and nesting areas. Their presence in Rockland County is widely viewed as a sign of improving environmental conditions and successful conservation efforts.

Local sightings of bald eagles continue to draw attention from birdwatchers and photographers, especially during the winter months when the large raptors are more active and visible in the region.

Photo credit: Owey Cramsie Jr.

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