For More Information Contact:
Colleen Pillus, (845) 486-2000 cpillus@dutchessny.gov
Poughkeepsie … Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro invites residents to the County’s next ‘ThinkDIFFERENTLY’ Red Carpet Movie Day for residents with disabilities and their families on Saturday, November 9th at 10 a.m. at the Roosevelt Cinemas, 4060 Albany Post Road (Route 9) in Hyde Park. The theater will adjust both the lighting and sound to make the experience more enjoyable for those on the autism spectrum or who experience sensory issues. Individuals, families and support agencies are all invited to this free event.
County Executive Molinaro said, “I know firsthand how a trip to the theater with a child with disabilities can sometimes be stressful, and our ‘ThinkDIFFERENTLY’ Red Carpet Movie days take away that anxiety and hassle, offering families a morning of relaxing, movie fun. We’re blessed to live in such an inclusive county, one that chooses to ‘ThinkDIFFERENTLY’ about those living with disabilities and focus on the similarities that unite us – not the differences that separate us.”
Space is limited, and online reservations are required by Wednesday, November, 6th. This event is supported by sponsors Greystone Programs, Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health, MidHudson Regional Hospital, Wappingers Congress of Teachers, Barton & Loguidice, Rhinebeck Animal Hospital and BluePath Service Dogs.
Established in 2015, the “ThinkDIFFERENTLY” initiative seeks to change the way individuals, businesses, organizations and communities relate to individuals with special needs. Following Dutchess County’s example, more than 100 municipalities throughout New York State and beyond have passed “ThinkDIFFERENTLY” resolutions, committing to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for individuals of all abilities.
More information about Dutchess County’s efforts to “ThinkDIFFERENTLY,” as well as a calendar of upcoming inclusive events throughout the County, is available at the award-winning website, thinkdifferently.net. The website offers simple navigation through the comprehensive array of local services available to residents with special needs and their families, and it connects families to resources, information and community events to enhance the lives of individuals of every ability.
Several upcoming “ThinkDIFFERENTLY” initiatives – including the formation of a “ThinkDIFFERENTLY” 4-H group in collaboration with Cornell Cooperative Extension; working with partners in the medical community, first responders, attorneys and judges to continue to address the systemic challenges faced by those with disabilities; and continuing to expand the movement’s footprint – are among numerous topics County Executive Molinaro will announce during his 2020 Executive Budget Address on Wednesday, October 30th at 10 a.m. in the Legislative Chambers, 22 Market Street in Poughkeepsie.
The County Executive’s Budget Address can be viewed live on the County’s website, dutchessny.gov. Later that evening on the 30th, at 6:30 p.m., County Executive Molinaro and Budget Director Jessica White will host a countywide tele-town hall forum when residents will have the opportunity to participate in a live conversation about the 2020 county budget, learn key details, ask questions and share feedback. County Executive Molinaro will also host a series of 2020 Executive Budget town hall forum events held throughout the county during the month of November.
