Astorino Joins Program Reach to Announce 'Best Date in Westchester 2015' ContestWestchester County Executive Robert P. Astorino and Program Reach have a Valentine's challenge for Westchester middle and high school students: come up with ideas for the "Best Date in Westchester 2015."

The challenge, announced at the Galleria of White Plains, comes courtesy of Program Reach, a not-for-profit organization that teaches young people to make healthy choices that can last a lifetime.

"The death of the date is greatly exaggerated, at least here in Westchester," Astorino said. "I'm confident that our young people will revolutionize dating through this contest. The premise is an excellent one -- young people are being encouraged to think kindly and thoughtfully about one another -- and I congratulate Program Reach for coming up with such a fun idea to drive that point home."

Program Reach's "Best Date in Westchester 2015" contest invites students between the ages of 13 and 18 to submit date ideas beginning Valentine's Day, Feb. 14, and running through March 14, 2015 at 5 p.m. Submissions may be in writing -- 500 word maximum -- or through video or audio with a three-minute maximum. Students don't have to actually go on dates, just think of great ideas for one. Date plans will be judged on:

  • Originality
  • Thoughtfulness
  • Wow! factor

The dates -- or ideas for a great date -- must involve activities within Westchester County, and budgets must not exceed $50. Program Reach will award prizes for the top three date ideas.

"The art of dating has taken a real hit in recent decades, but we at Program Reach have super high hopes that Westchester students can kick it back up a notch," said Program Reach Chief Executive Officer Dr. Nanci Coppola. "This contest will prove that young people can still develop terrific and healthy dating ideas that respect personal boundaries and don't involve counterproductive activities. Program Reach is enormously grateful to our volunteer team of judges and to those who will be donating prizes to the winners."

'The Best Date in Westchester 2015' contest will be judged by a panel of judges, including Sheila Astorino, the County Executive's wife. Prizes will include 2015 Playland tickets; Westchester Knicks tickets; treats at Frannie's Goodie Shop in Yonkers or Mount Kisco, and others.

For more information on "Best Date in Westchester 2015" contest rules, please visit Program Reach via their website.