Positive Energy Radiates in City of Poughkeepsie

POUGHKEEPSIE – Following two parades in a 48-hour period and other events in between, City of Poughkeepsie Mayor Rob Rolison thanks the community for coming together and for fostering such positive energy in the city.

“This past weekend was extraordinary,” the mayor said.

Under pleasant skies on Friday afternoon, people lined both sides of Main Street to watch a parade featuring the Poughkeepsie High School basketball and crew teams, both state champions. The parade continued through downtown and made its way to City Hall where the mayor, School Board President Felicia Watson, coaches from both teams and others greeted the players and presented them with awards. Many of the parade participants and watchers then went over to Mansion Square Park where First Friday festivities – featuring food vendors and music – were underway. The park was jam-packed with people, and the event lasted until nightfall.

On Saturday afternoon, Poughkeepsie Pride Weekend organizers painted the crosswalk at Main and Bridge streets the colors of a rainbow flag, one of many events that culminated with a parade on Sunday afternoon. Approximately 1,000 participated in the city’s first pride parade and festival, an event held in correlation with the 50-year anniversary of the Stonewall riots in Greenwich Village.

“Sunday’s parade was a joyful sight,” said the mayor. “Having this parade in Poughkeepsie was truly fitting. The city embraces diversity, and we compliment the organizers for working with us and putting on such a great event. I also want to thank our Police, Fire and Public Works departments for their outstanding work this weekend. Having parades back to back presented some challenges, but, once again, city employees were up to the task. Last weekend will be one that many people will long remember.”

To see video highlights of the “Champions Parade,” go to https://www.facebook.com/CityOfPoughkeepsie/videos/417926429049890/