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Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro met last month with Neal J. Johnson, Special Olympics New York president and chief executive officer and several local athletes at Bowdoin Park, one of the Games' venue.
“These athletes will be the beneficiaries of the hard work and dedication of countless individuals – from local officials and the Games Organizing Committee, to hundreds of volunteers who have selflessly given their time – and they’ll enjoy a weekend of competition and camaraderie they’ll never forget." Johnson said.
Molinaro is the honorary chair of the 2016 State Winter Games.
The Games Organizing Committee co-chairs are Mary Kay Vrba, president and chief executive officer of Dutchess Tourism Inc., and Frank M. Castella Jr., president and chief executive officer of the Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce.
The Games will begin Feb. 19 with Opening Ceremonies, including a ceremonial parade of athletes, motivational speeches, local entertainment, and the Law Enforcement Torch Run at the Mid-Hudson Civic Center in Poughkeepsie.
The Mid-Hudson Civic Center will also host Closing Ceremonies and a Victory Dance on Feb. 20.
These are the events and venues:
- Alpine Skiing – Holiday Mountain Ski Area, 99 Holiday Mountain Road, Monticello
- Figure Skating – McCann Ice Arena, 14 Civic Center Plaza, Poughkeepsie
- Cross Country Skiing and Snowshoeing – Bowdoin Park, 85 Sheafe Road, Poughkeepsie
- Floor Hockey – Stewart Air National Guard Base, 1 Maguire Way, Newburgh
Volunteers are needed to cheer for the athletes as "Fans in the Stands."
Click here for information and to volunteer.
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