Poughkeepsie... Dutchess County Executive William R. Steinhaus proclaimed March 12th to March 16th, 2007 to be Red Cross Week in Dutchess County during a press conference held this morning in front of the County Office Building on Market Street in Poughkeepsie.

“Today we take the opportunity to recognize the American Red Cross of Dutchess County and its volunteers for their continuing service to our community.     Dutchess County Government is proactive in our approach to emergency preparedness and we value the Red Cross’s partnership in the ongoing planning process. Government can’t do it alone, so we are extremely grateful to work with the Red Cross, along with all of the dedicated volunteers,” said County Executive Steinhaus.

Together with Dutchess County American Red Cross Board Chairperson, Arlene Chiaramonte; County Executive Steinhaus raised the American Red Cross flag, which will fly in front of the County Office Building in commemoration of Red Cross Week in Dutchess County.

Several Dutchess County Government departments such as Emergency Response and the Health Department work closely with the American Red Cross of Dutchess County on an ongoing basis.   The Red Cross has been a been a key player in the creation of the Dutchess County Medical Reserve Corp, a group of local community volunteers to assist existing medical response professionals and facilities in response to a large scale disaster.