Legoland New York Chooses 2 Hudson Valley 'Kid Reporters'

GOSHEN, NY — Five children — including two from the Hudson Valley — have been chosen to be part of the official Kid Reporter Team for the planned Legoland New York Resort. The junior journalists were chosen after a month-long search and will join "Kiditor-in-Chief" Waverly Winchester in keeping the public updated on the development of the Orange County-based theme park.

Amelia Crossland, 7, of Middletown, and Abigail Flynn, 11, of Mamaroneck, were chosen to join the reporting team, along with Matt Wood, 6, of Mahwah, New Jersey, Julio Arostegui, 9, of Chester, New Jersey, and Daniel Davidson, 10, of Brooklyn, according to information provided by Legoland.

The Kid Reporter Search began in January with a call for inquisitive children ages 6 through 12 who live within 100 miles of the park.

Each kid shared a video explaining why he or she wanted the job, and the final five were chosen from more than 450 submissions.

The winners demonstrated enthusiasm for Legoland New York and were chosen to share their passion with fellow children around the country.

"As a seasoned kid news reporter, I'm looking forward to helping my fellow junior journalists spread the news of Legoland New York," Winchester, who is the NYC Patch Kids' Mayor, said.

"I've been telling my classmates about the park since I first heard it was opening, and now I get to share my excitement with kids from all over the country," she said.

According to a spokeswoman, Middletown's Crossland, who is called MiMi for short, has a passion for science, dance and drama class. She can usually be found playing games with her cousins.

Flynn, of Mamaroneck, is described as a Fortnite fanatic, who has a penchant for singing, acting and musical theater.

In addition to exclusive behind-the-scenes access and ongoing published stories on the dedicated Legoland New York microsite, the six kid reporters will receive four complimentary annual passes to use with their family once the park opens, official Legoland New York branded swag and a commemorative Lego-built microphone.

Legoland New York Resort will be the largest Legoland park ever built by Merlin Entertainments, with more than 50 interactive rides, shows and attractions on 150 acres in Goshen in Orange County. The family theme park will be open seasonally from spring to fall.

The resort will also feature a 250-room Legoland Hotel, which will be open year-round.

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