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Remembering Marine Corporal Steve Vahaviolos of Airmont, NY (April 24, 1985 – May 11, 2006).

Published

7 years ago

May 11, 2019

Remembering Marine Corporal Steve Vahaviolos of Airmont, NY (April 24, 1985 – May 11, 2006).

Steve was born in Brooklyn on April 24, 1985 to Gus and Vasiliki (Vicky), who came to America from Greece. His family then moved to Airmont, New York. He attended Cherry Lane Elementary School and graduated from Suffern High School in 2003. After graduation he fulfilled his childhood dream and joined the US Marine Corps. In his private life he enjoyed reading, listening to music, and playing video games and enjoyed the company of his cat, Mr. Kitty.

In the Marines, Steve was assigned to the 2nd Tank Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force.

On May 11, 2006 along with three other Marines (named below), Cpl. Steve Vahaviolos died when their tank rolled off a bridge during night maneuvers into a canal north of Fallujah in Al Anbar province, Iraq. This was his second deployment to Iraq.

Lance Cpl. Jason K. Burnett

Lance Cpl. David J. Grames -Sanchez

2nd Lt. Michael L. Licalzi.

All four Marines were assigned to the 2nd Tank Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Lejeune, N.C.

In 2010, the Airmont Village Board renamed Eleanor Place as Marine Cpl. Steve Vahaviolos Memorial Way (pictured below).

In 2013, a new gazebo at Airmont Village Hall was dedicated in his memory.

In 2018, the Rockland County Gulf War/War on Terror Monument opened at the Haverstraw Bay Park (Pictured below). The Monument honors Rockland residents who served and gave their lives during Operation Desert Storm and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Marine Cpl. Steve Vahaviolos was 21 years old. His medals include a Global War on Terrorism Service Medal & Expeditionary Medal, and an Iraq Campaign Medal.

RIP Cpl. Vahaviolos – gone but never forgotten. 🇺🇸

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Update: Rockland County YouthFest Returns March 29 at RCC

Published

3 weeks ago

March 28, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

Rockland County will host its annual YouthFest on Sunday, March 29, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Rockland Community College.

The free, family-friendly event is one of the largest community gatherings in the county, bringing together more than 150 local agencies, organizations, and service providers focused on youth and family programs.

YouthFest offers a wide range of activities, including interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, performances, and hands-on experiences for children and teens. Families can also enjoy entertainment, games, and attractions throughout the day while learning about resources available across Rockland County.

The event is held in conjunction with Rockland County Government Day, giving residents an opportunity to connect with county departments and learn more about public services and programs.

Organized by the Rockland County Youth Bureau, YouthFest draws thousands of attendees each year and serves as a one-stop destination for families seeking information, support services, and recreational opportunities.

Admission is free and open to the public.

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Frozen Toilet During Extreme Cold? What Homeowners Should and Shouldn’t Do

Published

3 months ago

January 29, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

With freezing temperatures expected across Rockland County, Fire and Emergency Services is reminding residents to take steps to prevent frozen and burst pipes, which can cause significant property damage and even lead to fires.

Officials recommend allowing faucets to drip slightly, especially overnight, to keep water moving through pipes. Residents should also open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around plumbing, particularly in kitchens and bathrooms.

Fire and Emergency Services advises keeping homes heated to at least 55 degrees, even when away, and insulating exposed pipes in basements, crawl spaces, and garages. Residents are warned never to use open flames or unsafe heating devices to thaw frozen pipes.

If a pipe does freeze, officials recommend using a hair dryer or warm air to thaw it safely. Torches or other open-flame methods should never be used. A frozen toilet is inconvenient, but rushing the fix can turn a minor problem into major damage. Slow, careful warming is the safest solution, and professional help should be sought if the issue persists.

In the event of a burst pipe or water emergency, residents are urged to shut off the water immediately and contact emergency services or a licensed professional if needed.

Officials remind residents to stay warm, stay safe, and take preventative steps to protect their homes during extreme cold weather.