Category: Central
This event will take place on Saturday, June 6th from 11AM – 2PM at the Utica University Sports Dome in conjunction with our State Summer Games weekend. Activities will include local health provider connections, individual/family/circle of care wellness resources, upcoming fitness opportunities, and of course, our Healthy Athletes screenings!
People with disabilities live with significant unmet health needs and health disparities compared to the general population. People with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) are more than twice as likely to die prematurely than the general population, and have significantly higher rates of mental illness, obesity, and other health conditions. These disparities are not due to the person’s disability, rather to inaccessible health promotion and disease prevention services: everything from fitness and physical activity services to health education delivery is rarely adapted to their needs. – Health Disparities of People with IDD, SOI Center for Inclusive Health
Healthy Athletes provides free preventative health screenings and education to our athletes in several health disciplines. The screenings also equip individuals with essentials they need to live healthier lives, such as the following: New prescription glasses, toothbrushes, sunscreen, stretching bands, and earplugs, to name a few. We work with trained health professionals and student volunteers to lead these screenings. This event’s screenings will be led by the following clinicians:
- Opening Eyes: Dr. Judith Archibold – Ophthalmic Consultants of the Capital Region
- Health Promotion: Dr. Meghan Klawonn, Upstate Medical University
- Special Smile: Dr. Sarah Barry, Neighborhood Health Center
- Healthy Hearing: Dr. Elizabeth Runnion, Nazareth University & Dr. Krishna Rodemerk, UR Medicine Audiology
- FUN Fitness: Dr. Sarah Overton, Arc Jefferson – St. Lawrence
We’re very excited to offer our health programs to local athletes and hope to engage individuals with IDD who are not yet Special Olympics athletes to join and experience all of the incredible benefits that we have to offer!
If you’re interested in attending this event – RSVP here
1. Sign in or create a volunteer profile on the Special Olympics Portal
2. Click “Event Signup” and select ’2026 Summer State Games’
3. In the keyword box (upper left), type “health”
4. Register for your preferred screening
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Central Region athlete Megan Brazell is gearing up to represent New York State on the national stage at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minneapolis this June!
A dedicated Special Olympics competitor for over 25 years, Megan has participated in a wide range of sports including golf, downhill skiing, swimming, bocce, and cycling. Now competing in golf, she’s training at Butternut Creek Golf Course with a PGA professional, preparing both on simulators and eagerly awaiting the start of the outdoor season.
Off the course, Megan works at a local daycare and stays active in her community through volunteerism and fitness. Known for her love of music, travel, and Syracuse basketball, she has built lasting friendships and confidence through her involvement in Special Olympics.
For Megan, the USA Games represent more than competition. It’s an opportunity to showcase years of hard work, independence, and passion while proudly representing her home state of New York!
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Albany, NY – Applebee’s is teaming up with local law enforcement agencies to support Special Olympics New York.
On Thursday, April 16, from 5pm to 8pm, Applebee’s restaurants will host a “Law & Orders” night. Members of local law enforcement and Special Olympic New York Athletes will join the staff from Applebee’s to become celebrity waiters for the night. They’ll help serve tables, bus, and host for the night to help raise funds for the local athletes.
“We look forward to our Law & Orders nights each and every year,” said Stacey Hengsterman, President & CEO of Special Olympics New York. “Our athletes enjoy seeing their friends in law enforcement, and we all enjoy meeting our greatest supporters in the community.”
For a list of participating locations, please see below:
Capital Region
- 255 Quaker Road, Queensbury, NY 12804
- 594 North Greenbush Road, Rensselaer, NY 12144
- 2400 Cambridge Road, Schenectady, NY 12304
- 3 Lowe’s Drive, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
- 555 Troy-Schenectady Road, Latham, NY 12110
Central Region
- 3189 Erie Boulevard East, DeWitt, NY 13214
- 628 South Main Street, North Syracuse, NY 13212
- 3975 Route 31, Liverpool, NY 13090
- 221 Grant Avenue, Auburn, NY 13021
- 1794 Black River Blvd., Rome, NY 13440
- 4755 Commercial Drive, New Hartford, NY 13413
- 630 West State Street, Herkimer, NY 13350
- 300 Riverside Drive, Utica, NY 13502
Genesee Region
- 1955 Empire Boulevard, Webster, NY 14580
- 877 County Route 64, Elmira, NY 14903
- 4207 Recreation Drive, Canandaigua, NY 14424
- 4401 Genesee Valley Plaza, Geneseo, NY 14454
- 8322 Lewiston Road, Batavia, NY 14020
Southern Tier Region
- 3701 Vestal Parkway East, Vestal, NY 13850
- 856 State Route 13, Cortland, NY 13045
Western Region
- 4405 Milestrip Road, Blasdell, NY 14219
- 1608 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY 14304
- 5822 South Transit Road, Lockport, NY 14094
- 340 East Fairmount Avenue, Lakewood, NY 14750
- 3908 Vineyard Drive, Dunkirk, NY 14048
- 3067 West State Street, Olean, NY 14760
- 4967 Transit Road, Depew, NY 14043
- 1050 Union Road, West Seneca, NY 14224
Members of the media are cordially invited to attend.
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Anne Norby, from Dryden, New York, has been part of Special Olympics New York for more than seven years, growing into both a decorated athlete and a respected leader. Now 35, Anne is best known for her achievements in swimming, where she competes in events ranging from the 50-meter butterfly to long-distance freestyle. She also has competed in alpine skiing and cycling, embracing every opportunity to test her abilities.
Anne Norby found competing in the Special Olympics 50-Meter Fly. Photo Credit: Conor Lange
Anne represented New York on the national stage at the 2022 USA Games in Orlando, where she competed in multiple swimming events, including the 500-yard freestyle, 200-yard individual medley, and 4×50-yard medley relay. More recently, she took part in the 2025 New York State Summer Games at Ithaca College, competing in several swim events and proudly serving as a voice of encouragement during Opening Ceremonies.
Her contributions go beyond the pool. Anne is a member of the Southern Tier Athlete Leadership Council and, in 2025, graduated from the Regional Athlete Leadership Council in the Central Region. Anne also serves on the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) Board and recently attended their annual conference in Minneapolis, where she had a fantastic time. Through these roles, she has spoken at major events, supported athlete advocacy, and represented her peers with pride.
Dryden’s Anne Norby lights the ceremonial torch during the opening ceremonies of the 2023 Special Olympics New York Summer Games. Ithaca will host the Games for the third straight year, beginning on June 14. Photo Credit: Devan Accardo
Anne has been swimming competitively since the age of eight, and she often describes herself as a “distance swimmer” who simply loves the water. Special Olympics, she says, has given her confidence, lifelong friendships, and the belief that her disability does not define or limit her. Whether she is competing, speaking at ceremonies, or joining the Law Enforcement Torch Run, Anne continues to inspire those around her with her determination and her joy.
Make a difference today by supporting athletes like Anne.
Ithaca College. (2025, June). The heart and skills of a champion: Anne Norby. https://www.ithaca.edu/news/heart-and-skills-champion Special Olympics New York. (2023). Athlete of the Year nominees. https://www.specialolympics-ny.org/news/aoy-2023/ Special Olympics New York. (2025, April). Central Region Athlete Leadership Council graduates. https://www.specialolympics-ny.org/news/central-alc-2025/ Special Olympics. (2022). USA Games Orlando 2022: Anne Norby athlete results. https://results.specialolympics.org/usa-games-orlando-2022/athletes/anne-norby-8440666
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Figure skater, coach, intern, and now staff—when it comes to Special Olympics New York, Nicole Fess has done it all.
Currently, Nicole serves as Director of Program for our Genesee Region. In this role, she oversees school-age community programs and Unified Champion Schools, helping to expand inclusive sports and educational opportunities across her region.
Nicole’s journey with Special Olympics began in 2011 in the Genesee Region. A lifelong figure skater, she discovered her passion for coaching after being invited to help the Silver Blades Figure Skating Team. “They needed an extra coach,” she recalls. “I went, and I fell in love.”
Since that moment, Nicole’s involvement has only grown. She went on to become the Head Coach of the Silver Blades team and interned with the Genesee Region’s program team while in college. She also served as Head of Delegation for the State Summer and Fall Games. In 2022, Nicole officially joined Special Olympics New York as a staff member.
Her dedication led her to an unforgettable opportunity in 2025, when she served as Head Coach for Special Olympics USA’s Figure Skating Team at the World Winter Games in Turin, Italy.
“It was the experience of a lifetime,” Nicole shares. “Especially because three of my eight skaters were from New York.”
Nicole finds the greatest joy in seeing her athletes thrive both on and off the ice. “Special Olympics gives people a chance to participate in sports who might not otherwise have the opportunity. It builds confidence, friendships, and a true sense of belonging and that’s what makes it so special.”
Nicole continues to embody the spirit of inclusion and passion that defines Special Olympics New York, inspiring athletes, coaches, and communities alike to see the power of sport in bringing people together.
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19 Locations in 8 Regions Will Participate
Albany, NY – Tomorrow, Texas Roadhouse will team up with local law enforcement agencies to support Special Olympics New York.
On Wednesday, October 22, from 5pm to 8pm, Texas Roadhouse restaurants will host a “Law & Orders” night. Members of local law enforcement and Special Olympic New York Athletes will join the staff to become celebrity waiters for the night. They’ll greet guests and serve tables to help raise funds for the local athletes.
“We are so excited to expand our Texas Roadhouse partnership to a statewide event this year. We look forward to our Law & Orders nights each and every year,” said Stacey Hengsterman, President & CEO of Special Olympics New York. “Our athletes enjoy seeing their friends in law enforcement, and we all enjoy meeting our greatest supporters in the community.”
For a list of participating locations, please see below:
Capital District Region
- 105 Wolf Road, Albany
- 820 US-9, Queensbury
Central Region
- 3143 Erie Blvd. East, Syracuse
- 20790 State Route 3, Watertown
- 3830 NYS Route 31, Liverpool
- 4511 Commercial Drive, New Hartford
- 140 NYS Route 104 E Ste. T, Oswego
Genesee Region
- 1750 County Route 64, Horseheads
- 3150 W. Henrietta Road, Rochester
- 3065 West Ridge Road, Rochester
Hudson Valley
- 2323 South Road, Poughkeepsie
Long Island
- 2571 Hempstead Turnpike, Suite 100, East Meadow
- 502 Commack Road, Deer Park
- 289 Middle Country Road, Selden
North Country
- 356 Cornelia Street, Plattsburgh
Southern Tier Region
- 4399 Vestal Parkway East, Vestal
- 719-25 South Meadow Street, Ithaca
Western Region
- 900 Youngs Street, Tonawanda
- 3755 Union Road, Cheektowaga
Members of the media are cordially invited to attend.
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Over 300 Athletes and Unified Partners from US and Canada Set to Compete
Fayetteville, Pennsylvania – Ten Special Olympics New York athletes and Unified partners are ready for a competition like no other: The 2025 Special Olympics North America Golf Championship.
Held in Fayetteville, Pennsylvania and hosted by Special Olympics North America with support from Penn National Golf Club, Special Olympics Pennsylvania, Golf Association of Pennsylvania, WellSpan Health, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Penn State Mont Alto, Champion Teamwear, Coca Cola, PGA TOUR, and Topgolf, this four-day event features over 300 athletes and Unified partners from 22 Special Olympics Programs in the United States and Canada.
“We are proud to have these athletes and partners representing New York State at this unique competition,” said Stacey Hengsterman, President and CEO of Special Olympics New York. “We’ll be cheering them on from home as they strive to achieve their best.”
Special Olympics NY will send 14 delegation members to the championship, including two coaches and two additional support staff. Their roster includes the following athletes and partners:
- Phil Isaacson, Athlete, Capital District Region
- Jeff Isaacson, Unified Partner, Capital District Region
- Edward O’Hearn, Athlete, Capital District Region
- Theresa Lee, Unified Partner, Capital District Region
- Michael Cardone, Athlete, Central Region
- Jacqueline Colone, Athlete, Central Region
- Ryan Goldacker, Athlete, Central Region
- Chris Bovee, Unified Partner, Genesee Region
- Missy Potter, Athlete, Genesee Region
- Aiden Gierlinger, Athlete, Western Region
Competition takes place August 25-28 with awards on August 28. Delegations will join in an exciting Opening Ceremony on August 25. Competition will be offered in traditional and Unified Sports® team formats. Special Olympics Unified Sports® brings individuals with and without intellectual disabilities together on the same team. Free health screenings for athletes and Unified partners will be available with Fit Feet (podiatry screenings) being offered on Tuesday, August 26.
For members of the media seeking interviews with athletes or Unified partners upon their return, please contact Casey Vattimo at cvattimo@nyso.org.
Questions about the Special Olympics North America Golf Championship should be directed to Rachel McQuiston, Director, Marketing and Communications, Special Olympics North America at rmcquiston@specialolympics.org.
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Eleven Athlete Leaders Honored for Their Commitment to Representing Their Peers
Syracuse, NY – Special Olympics New York proudly announces the graduation of its Regional Athlete Leadership Council in the Central Region. On Tuesday, April 1, eleven dedicated athletes completed their leadership training and are now prepared to serve as advocates for their fellow athletes.
The graduating athletes are the following: Omar Barry, Diane Budnar, Erika Einhart, Ryan Goldacker, James Jewett, Kayla McKeon, Lindsay Mitchell, Anne Norby, Jordan Sellers, Aziza Speight, and Stacey Weimer. These individuals were selected from among their peers to represent and elevate the voices of Special Olympics athletes in their communities and beyond.
“The Athlete Leadership Council is a vital part of our mission, empowering athletes to take on leadership roles and shape the future of Special Olympics,” said Special Olympics New York President & CEO Stacey Hengsterman. “We are incredibly proud of this group of graduates and know they will make a meaningful impact as advocates and role models.”
The Athlete Leadership Council provides participants with training and opportunities to develop skills in public speaking, decision-making, and community engagement. Graduates of the program often go on to take leadership positions within Special Olympics and their broader communities.
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33 Locations in Five Regions Will Participate
Albany, NY – Next week, Applebee’s will team up with local law enforcement agencies to support Special Olympics New York.
On Thursday, April 10, from 5pm to 8pm, Applebee’s restaurants will host a “Law & Orders” night. Members of local law enforcement and Special Olympic New York Athletes will join the staff from Applebee’s to become celebrity waiters for the night. They’ll help serve tables, bus, and host for the night to help raise funds for the local athletes.
“We look forward to our Law & Orders nights each and every year,” said Stacey Hengsterman, President & CEO of Special Olympics New York. “Our athletes enjoy seeing their friends in law enforcement, and we all enjoy meeting our greatest supporters in the community.”
For a list of participating locations, please see below:
Capital District Region
- 255 Quaker Road, Queensbury, NY 12804
- 594 North Greenbush Road, Rensselaer, NY 12144
- 2400 Cambridge Road, Schenectady, NY 12304
- 3 Lowe’s Drive, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866
- 555 Troy-Schenectady Road, Latham, NY 12110
- 268 Saratoga Rd, Glenville, NY 12302
Central Region
- 3189 Erie Boulevard East, DeWitt, NY 13214
- 628 South Main Street, North Syracuse, NY 13212
- 3975 Route 31, Liverpool, NY 13090
- 221 Grant Avenue, Auburn, NY 13021
- 1794 Black River Blvd., Rome, NY 13440
- 4755 Commercial Drive, New Hartford, NY 13413
- 630 West State Street, Herkimer, NY 13350
- 300 Riverside Drive, Utica, NY 13502
Genesee Region
- 585 Moseley Road, Fairport, NY 14450
- 1955 Empire Boulevard, Webster, NY 14580
- 877 County Route 64, Elmira, NY 14903
- 4207 Recreation Drive, Canandaigua, NY 14424
- 4401 Genesee Valley Plaza, Geneseo, NY 14454
- 8322 Lewiston Road, Batavia, NY 14020
Southern Tier Region
- 3701 Vestal Parkway East, Vestal, NY 13850
- 2300 N. Triphammer Road, Ithaca, NY 14850
- 856 State Route 13, Cortland, NY 13045
Western Region
- 4405 Milestrip Road, Blasdell, NY 14219
- 1608 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY 14304
- 5822 South Transit Road, Lockport, NY 14094
- 340 East Fairmount Avenue, Lakewood, NY 14750
- 2656 Delaware Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14216
- 1785 Walden Avenue, Cheektowaga, NY 14225
- 3908 Vineyard Drive, Dunkirk, NY 14048
- 3067 West State Street, Olean, NY 14760
- 4967 Transit Road, Depew, NY 14043
- 1050 Union Road, West Seneca, NY 14224
Members of the media are cordially invited to attend.
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Funds to Support Athletes Heading to World Games in 2025
Watertown, NY – Special Olympics New York is honored to have Shaun Cuddeback, lieutenant with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, raising funds for its 2025 World Games Delegation.
Lt. Cuddeback will be one of several Law Enforcement Torch Runners carrying the Flame of Hope at Italy’s World Games, March 8 – 16, 2025. In addition, Special Olympics NY will be sending 21 other athletes, partners, and coaches to the games, along with fellow Torch Runner and athlete Jacob Babcock.
“We are so fortunate to have champions like Shaun contributing to our movement,” said Stacey Hengsterman, President and CEO of Special Olympics NY. “World Games is a dream come true for our athletes, and it would not be possible without Shaun and those who will donate to his campaign.”
“[These athletes] put their heart and soul into it,” said Lt. Cuddeback. “If you can spare a couple of dollars to send them to some competitions, that’s what this is all about.”
For every athlete and Unified partner making the trip to Italy, the cost to Special Olympics New York is approximately $10,000.
Lt. Cuddeback will begin his seven marathons Monday, August 26 and conclude with the Sackets Harbor Marathon on Sunday, September 1. Those interested in supporting him in his fundraising efforts may do so at this link.
Lt. Cuddeback’s marathons will begin each day at 6am, rain or shine, at the following locations:
- Monday, August 26: Carthage High School
- Tuesday, August 27: South Jefferson’s Wilson Building
- Wednesday, August 28: Calcium Nature Trail (start at the Rt 11/Patterson Rd trailhead)
- Thursday, August 29: General Brown High School
- Friday, August 30: Indian River High School
- Saturday, August 31: Ft. Drum’s McGrath Gymnasium
- Sunday, September 1: Madison Barracks Polo Field
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Special Olympics NY athlete Ryan Goldacker
Ryan is a graduate of Cazenovia High School, where he played Unified Sports. He is also an Athlete Leadership Council Member and 3-season Special Olympics athlete of over 26 years.
Throughout his involvement in Special Olympics training and competitions, Ryan has gained numerous valuable and life-changing lessons over the years. He has not only made new friends but has also honed his athletic skills and conquered his fear of public speaking.
Skiing is Ryan’s favorite sport. He competes in slalom and giant slalom. He has earned many medals over his career, including State Games and USA Games honors.
“Special Olympics gives me the opportunity to compete not only skiing, but in the fall – I train and compete in golf, and in the summer – I train and compete in powerlifting. Special Olympics gives me all of these opportunities at no cost to me or my family. It is an incredible organization that has taught me how to be a champion, and helped communities like yours all across the state to be more inclusive,” said Ryan.
Ryan has a variety of hobbies, such as watching movies, collecting CDs, and acting with Front Row Players.
His achievements consist of being selected for World Games, taking part in the law enforcement torch run, obtaining the rank of Eagle Scout, being a member of the Cazenovia College swim team, and conducting interviews on Bridge Street TV.
Special Olympics athlete Ryan Goldacker gives a speech to his peers.
Our Special Olympics athletes dedicate countless hours to training, competing, and striving for greatness.
However, reaching the peak of their success often requires more than just talent and determination; it also requires vital financial support.
Your contribution can significantly influence their path to achievement.
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Special Olympics New York is pleased to announce that 36 Jersey Mike’s Subs locations around the state will participate in the Day and Month of Giving campaigns for the third consecutive year.
Throughout March, customers can donate to Special Olympics NY at participating Jersey Mike’s restaurants. The campaign culminates with a Day of Giving on Wednesday, March 27, when local Jersey Mike’s restaurants will give 100 percent of the day’s sales to the athletes of Special Olympics NY.
“I would like to extend a personal invitation to you and your family to visit Jersey Mike’s Subs throughout the month of March, and especially on Day of Giving when 100 percent of sales—every penny—goes to help a great local cause,” said Peter Cancro, Jersey Mike’s founder and CEO.
“Jersey Mike’s is a true champion of champions,” said Special Olympics New York President & CEO Stacey Hengsterman. “Every dollar donated during the Month of Giving—and every dollar spent at partner locations March 27—will help change lives for people with intellectual differences. Our athletes, families, and supporters look forward to celebrating inclusion with Jersey Mike’s all month long.”
Find a list of participating locations by region below:
Central Region
- 3528 West Genesee St. Fairmont, NY 13219
Long Island Region
- 6224 Jericho Turnpike, Commack
- 280A Middle Country Road, Selden
- 601 Portion Road, Lake Ronkonkoma
- 15 Hewitt Square, East Northport
- 1280 Broad Hollow Rd.(Rt 110), Farmingdale
- 5050 Sunrise Hwy, Massapequa Park
- 155 West Sunrise Hwy., Lindenhurst
- 586 Veterans Memorial Hwy, Hauppauge
- 4600 Nesconset Hwy., Port Jefferson Station
- 2756 Sunrise Hwy, Bellmore
- 512 Commack Rd, Deer Park
- 1113 Route 25A, Stony Brook
- 585 Main Street (Montauk Highway), Bay Shore
- 410 Motor Parkway, Hauppauge
- 988 Hempstead Turnpike, Uniondale
- 202 Glen Cove Road, Carle Place
- 2345 Jericho Turnpike, Garden City Park
- 180 W Old Country Road, Hicksville
- 51 E Merrick Road, Freeport
- 869 Montauk Highway, Bayport
- 7 East Jericho Turnpike, Huntington Station
- 621A Hempstead Turnpike, West Hempstead
- 4025C Hempstead Turnpike, Bethpage
- 24 Atlantic Ave, Oceanside
- 643 Sunrise Highway, Lynbrook
- 800 Montauk Highway, Shirley
- 357 Route 25A, Rocky Point
- 1034 Willis Avenue, Albertson
Genesee Region
- 8379 Lewiston Road, Batavia, 14020
- 2838 West Ridge Road, Greece, 14626
- 1642 County Road 64, Suite H-2B, Horseheads, 14845
- 2780 Monroe Avenue, Suite #207, Rochester, 14618
- 1233 East Ridge Road, Rochester, 14621
- 20 Spencerport Road, Rochester, 14606
- 405 Commerce Drive, Suite 200, Victor, 14564
- 975 Ridge Road, Webster, 14580
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