For More Information Contact:
Donna Bolner Assistant Majority Leader Dutchess County Tick Task Force Chair 845-489-6464
The Dutchess County Legislature’s Tick Task Force, together with the Department of Behavioral and Community Health, announced today that it will host the 2017 “Be Tick Free!” Media Contest that will be open to middle and high school students from January 1 through March 11. The goal of the contest is for students to learn how to prevent Lyme and other tick-borne diseases, and then use their digital media skills to teach others what they have learned. Students are asked to create a 30- or 60-second live action or computer animated public service announcement on how to prevent tick-borne disease. Entries may be submitted by individuals or groups.
Donna Bolner, Legislator from District 13 and Chairwoman of the Tick Task Force, explains that the media contest is one way Dutchess County residents can become better aware of the dangers ticks pose to their families and pets.
To learn more about the media contest, visit the Dutchess County Legislature online
Awards and prizes totaling $500 per division will be presented to contest winners at the May meeting of the Dutchess County Legislature by the Tick Task Force.
Legislator Donna Bolner and the Tick Task Force is committed to efforts in controlling the tick population. The mission of the Tick Task Force is to develop long term goals and make recommendations to the Legislature in the efforts of understanding and safely controlling ticks and reducing Lyme Disease and other tick borne diseases.
If you would like to be considered for appointment to the Tick Task Force, send your resume to the Dutchess County Legislature, 22 Market Street, 6th Floor, Poughkeepsie NY 12601, faxed to (845) 486-2113, or email the Clerk of the Legislature cmorris@co.dutchess.ny.us. In particular the Tick Task Force is seeking people with medical backgrounds or reasons that require them to be outside on a regular basis (i.e. surveyors, environmental field workers) to participate in this important effort.
“It is important to note that ticks don’t just carry Lyme Disease, albeit that is the most common tick-borne disease, but there are many others including Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Ehrlichiosis, and Babesiosis. If you, or someone you know, were bit by a tick and show symptoms of illness – see your doctor immediately,” concluded Bolner.
