Local Businesses And Community Organizations Join With County Executive To Offer Healthy Activities And Discounts Across Ulster County
Kingston, NY- County Executive Mike Hein was joined by Dr. Carol Smith, Commissioner of Health and Mental Health; Heidi Kirschner, CEO and President of the YMCA of Kingston and Ulster County; Martin E. Bruhn, Race Director of Women’s Woodstock Cycling Grand Prix; and other Ulster County business and community leaders at the YMCA of Kingston to officially declare May 7, 2016 – May 15, 2016 as the 6th Annual Healthy Ulster County Week. During Healthy Ulster County Week, special events, services and promotions are being offered by local businesses and community organizations to encourage Ulster County residents to live healthy lifestyles in efforts to make Ulster County the healthiest county in New York. This week aims to encourage residents to eat well, exercise, and be conscious of the overall health of themselves and their friends and families.
Michael P. Hein, Ulster County Executive
“One of my administration’s on-going initiatives is to help make Ulster County the healthiest county in New York State and this week places a focus on healthy choices. Ulster County is moving in the right direction as evidenced by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation County Health Rankings. The 2016 county health rankings determined that Ulster County has made a more than fifty percent improvement, from being ranked #35 in 2011 to #16 out of 62 counties this year,” said County Executive Mike Hein. “This is impressive and could not be accomplished without a community-wide effort and I thank everyone involved for their tremendous contributions throughout the county.”
County Executive Hein continued, “We hold Healthy Ulster County Week each year as a way to promote healthy options and activities during the week. I want to congratulate the YMCA as they celebrate 150 years at their location in Kingston and we appreciate all of their involvement in the community. I also want to thank all of the businesses and community organizations that are participating in the 6th Annual Healthy Ulster County Week, and I urge residents to view the calendar of events and take advantage of one of the many healthy activities and promotions offered.”
Dr. Carol Smith, Commissioner of Health and Mental Health
“We know that daily exercise and healthy food choices are essential to maintain wellness. Here in Ulster County we have an abundance of options for staying fit, eating healthy and having fun, all at the same time. And, as Healthy Ulster County Week demonstrates, there is not only something for everyone, there are many things for everyone,” said Dr. Carol Smith, Commissioner of Health and Mental Health. “Ulster County’s trails, walkways, bicycle paths, waterways, farm markets and cafes and restaurants are healthy, accessible, and either free or affordable. We encourage visitors and residents alike to experience how enjoyable it can be to spend time in one of the healthiest communities in the nation.”
Heidi Kirschner, President & CEO, YMCA of Kingston & Ulster County
“The YMCA is happy to participate in the Sixth Annual Healthy Ulster County Week and we encourage residents to participate in our Bike Fest as well as the many other events being held during the week,” said Heidi Kirschner, President and CEO, YMCA of Kingston and Ulster County. “We appreciate and fully support County Executive Hein’s on-going efforts in helping to make Ulster County the healthiest county in New York State.”
Martin E. Bruhn, Race Director, Women’s Woodstock Cycling Grand Prix
“Healthy Ulster County Week is a great opportunity for county residents to experience the benefits of healthy choices, fitness programs and services,” said Martin E. Bruhn, Race Director, Women’s Woodstock Cycling Grand Prix. “County Executive Hein has been very supportive of the Women’s Woodstock Cycling Grand Prix and we appreciate his commitment to the health and well-being of the community. We invite residents to participate in the Women’s race on May 7, whether it is entering as a racer or coming by to be a spectator, all are welcome.”
Additional information about Healthy Ulster County Week activities can be found at www.ulstercountyny.gov, www.HealthyUlsterCounty.net, www.UlsterCountyAlive.com or calling at 845-340-3800. For Healthy Ulster County Week Calendar please see below.
Pictured Above: County Executive Hein with some of the participants in Healthy Ulster County Week and YMCA Board Members; Picutred below: (from left) Martin E. Bruhn, Race Director, Women's Woodstock Cycling Grand Prix; Heidi Kirschner, President & CEO YMCA; County Executive Mike Hein; Dr. Carol Smith, Ulster County Commissioner of Health and Mental Health; 2).
