Volume LXXXXVII, No. 1
Liberty, NY -:- January, 2016
(USPS) 525 - 100
Cornell University Cooperative Extension Sullivan County’s Mission Statement Cornell Cooperative Extension puts knowledge to work in pursuit of economic vitality, ecological sustainability, and social well-being. We bring local experience and research based solutions together, helping Sullivan County families and communities thrive in our rapidly changing world.
Cornell Cooperative Extension Sullivan County’s Vision Statement
Melinda Meddaugh (right), presenting the 2015 Volunteer of the Year award to Ari Mir-Pontier (left) at the Cornell Cooperative Extension Annual Meeting on December 17th. CCE Sullivan Core Values: Education, Collaboration, Accountability, Responsiveness, Inclusiveness.
Cornell Cooperative Extension will be a gateway to knowledge, life skills, and experiences for better living. We will bring together and partner with government, business, and community based groups to serve all residents and visitors of Sullivan County. CCE will continue to evolve to meet the changing needs of the county and its diverse population by employing the latest technology, research based education, and highly trained professional staff.
CCE Sullivan on the Ground: CCE delivers high quality, researched-based educational programing throughout the year at the Gerald J. Skoda Extension Education Center in Liberty, New York and in the Sullivan County community. Education is delivered through printed materials, workshops, classes, presentations, demonstrations, visits by world class researchers, special tours and visits, and with the help of local media outlets. A 100-year-old grassroots organization, we are charged with involving the local community and listening to the needs of the people. Our board of directors is elected by, and responsible to, the people of Sullivan County. Standing and special program committees report to our board and assist CCE in identifying needs in the community and prioritizing programming that is within our mission to address. Board and program committee members are individuals with varied expertise and interest. Our professional staff consult with them to develop and deliver programs.
Youth at the Vet Science series examining livestock parasites through microscopes for identification, with guidance of staff.
Message from the Board President
3
Upcoming Events
18
Organizational Chart
4
Staff Highlights & Goals
19
2015 Fast Facts
5
CCESC Spotlights
20
Testimonials & Statements of Support
6
Enrollment Card
21
Strategic Program Areas
7
Financial Information
22
Agriculture & Food Systems
8
Funding: Grants & Contracts
23
Environment & Natural Resources
10
Thank You! Supporter Listings
24
Community & Economic Vitality
12
Contributors & Sponsors
25
Nutrition & Healthy Families
14
Community Supporters
26
Youth & Family Development
16
Necessary Business The Extension Connection (USPS-525-100) is published monthly for $25.00 enrollment by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Sullivan County, located at 64 Ferndale-Loomis Road, Suite 1, Liberty, NY 12754-2903. Entered at Liberty, New York, as a periodical class matter. Acceptance for mailing at special rate of postage provided for in section 412, Act of February 24, 1925. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Extension Connection, 64 Ferndale-Loomis Road, Suite 1, Liberty, NY 12754-2903.
The Extension Connection Edited by: Nicole Slevin & Colleen Monaghan Layout & Design by: Tracey Argent Produced at Cornell Cooperative Extension Sullivan County
2015 Board of Directors Donna Willi..……..…...…..………….………..………..President Earl Myers…………..…….………………….........Vice President Pamela Rourke……………………………...…………...Secretary Glenn Pontier…………………………...…….…………Treasurer Dawn Boyes Christopher Gozza Sonja Hedlund Steve Mogel Edward Moran Louisa Parker Mike Sakell Janet Threshman Kitty Vetter, Legislative Rep.
Cooperative Extension in New York State provides Equal Program and Employment Opportunities. New York State College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, New York State College of Human Ecology, and New York State College of Veterinary Medicine at Cornell University, Cooperative Extension Associations, County Governing Bodies, and the United States Department of Agriculture, cooperating.
NOTICE: Official endorsement of advertisers and their products is not intended by the acceptance of their advertisements for the Extension Connection.
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REGULAR OFFICE HOURS 8:30 am to 4:30 pm | Monday-Friday Phone: 845-292-6180 | Fax: 845-292-4946 Website: www.sullivancce.org E-mail: sullivan@cornell.edu Twitter.com/ccesullivan Facebook.com/ccesullivan
Staff Members Colleen Monaghan...……………..…………...Executive Director Tracey Argent…………………Sr. Administrator & HR Manager SueAnn Boyd…………..……Healthy Schools Program Educator Erica Dahl………………..ESNY Community Nutrition Educator Susan Hamilton………………….………….Director of Programs Marylin Jones...…………………….….4-H Community Educator Bonnie Lewis……….…….....................Dependent Care Educator Michelle Lipari………………....Ag & 4-H Community Educator Erica Lynch ……….…………………….……..Kitchen Assistant Melinda Meddaugh...Ag & Natural Resources Resource Educator Nicole Slevin…………………………Public Affairs Coordinator Kaitlyn Smith……………..Association Administrative Assistant Dayna Valenti-Gaeta………...Community Horticulture Educator Tara VanHorn...…………………………….…..Finance Manager Sean Welsh…...Family & Youth Development Team Coordinator John Wilcox…………………….....Building & Grounds Manager
Extension Connection—Annual Summary
January, 2016
Donna Willi, President sullivan@cornell.edu Greetings, Sullivan County! As we wrap up another year at Extension and my first year as board president, I am so pleased at the level of engagement and support we are receiving from the entire community; volunteers, businesses, parents, youth, and community friends of Extension. With your support we’ve seen progress in every project and program area of focus this year. In 2015, Extension Connection subscriptions grew over 30%. By sharing your Extension experience with friends and neighbors, you can connect them with the useful and fun learning opportunities available through Cornell Cooperative Extension Sullivan County (CCESC) enrollment. You can pick up a couple of Extension Connection newsletters at the office if you’d like to use them to encourage others to sign up! With a refreshed board of directors and Program Advisory Committee, and a new executive director, CCESC’s growth and progress in 2015 is reflective of a much larger movement happening across the community. As a county preparing for renewed interest from our regional neighbors and beyond, Extension’s role remains steady; to provide trusted information to Sullivan County residents and guests to solve problems and elevate our quality of life. In the following pages, you will see a snapshot of the program offerings, educational opportunities, capital improvements, and community support activities that CCESC staff has engaged in, along with a sneak peek into upcoming programs, projects, and initiatives. Some of the projects planned for 2016 are funded, some are not. We continue to need County and community support, in cash and volunteer hours, to fulfill Extension’s mission of bringing real life solutions to people who live, work, learn, and play in Sullivan County. Last year, contributions to Extension saved the County $300,000 in capital expenses, and will continue to do so annually for the next three years. The County allocation helped CCESC leverage an additional $700,000 in federal, state, and private investments in Sullivan County. For the next five years, if we experience no further increases or growth, that allocation will leverage a minimum of $1,000,000 per year due to recently secured multi-year grants and contracts. County investment in Extension, as a quasi-governmental agency, ensures a valuable mechanism by which to bring in Sullivan County’s January, 2016
fair share of funds from state and federal grants. That’s the dollars and cents of it. More importantly, the social value of Extension, to the tune of more than 10,000 contacts per year, gives Sullivan County farmers, families, young people, residents, and visitors a trusted place to connect with for informal learning opportunities, community connections, and meaningful contributions. In 2016 we’re set to grow in budget, staffing, programming, and lives touched by at least 25%. Over the next 3 years your continued support will help us raise another $750,000 to replace the failing heating, ventilation, and cooling system, repair the aging sidewalks and parking lot to ensure quality ADA access and compliance, and enhance our secure, interactive learning environment and community facility. CCESC membership drives the direction and spirit of Extension. On behalf of the board of directors and staff, thank you for believing in Extension, renewing your commitment and support, and for your ongoing contributions of time, money, and energy. We look forward to continuing to strengthen our relationship with you, building quality core programming, exploring opportunities to learn from our neighbors in the Hudson Valley region, and diversifying our resources. Cheers to the new year!
CCE staff sourced and prepared local ingredients for the Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce’s First Friday Breakfast in October.
Extension Connection—Annual Summary
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We’re Hiring! Agri-Business and Retention Program Coordinator The Agri-Business and Retention Program, a recommendation of the County Agriculture and Farmland Protection Plan and identified in the Ag & Food systems section of the CCESC Plan of Work, will provide a framework for communicating directly with farmers around business development related topics to increase their awareness of available resources, improve their profitability and solve problems. Activities include: contribute to and maintain the CCE Ag database, engage in ongoing communications and work with a proactive team of professionals to develop and/or make referrals to resources to support business growth and address issues, such as financial planning, business planning, estate planning, farm transfers and cash flow projections. Accepting applications until January 28, 2016 or until a suitable candidate pool is reached. View from Stone Ridge Farm with pond For more information on how to apply and for a full position description, visit www.sullivancce.org.
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Extension Connection—Annual Summary
January, 2016
# of Direct Youth Contacts:
Program Areas
CCESC Celebrated 101 Years in Sullivan County
3410
Ag & Food Systems
Environment &Natural Resources
Community & Economic Viability
Nutrition & Healthy Families
Youth & Family Development
# of Direct Adult Contacts:
5032 # of Paid Enrollees
486 CCESC Public Affairs Coordinator Nicole Slevin was selected as one of the Sullivan County Democrat’s 2015 Young Professionals
CCESC Dependent Care Educator Bonnie Lewis, RN has beencertified as a Tai Chi for Arthritis Instructor by the CDC # of Master Food Preserver Volunteers trained:
19
Additional Grants & Contracts Secured for 2016: $350,000
Eddie S., CCE Sullivan County 4-H member & 1st Place NYS Team, placed 9th in National Dairy Bowl Championship!
Participation from NYC, Georgia, & Canada!
CCESC Finance Manager Tara Van Horn was selected as one of the Sullivan County Democrats Business and Professional Women of 2015
January, 2016
CCE Sullivan County 4-H member Erin D. was a member of the Senior Region Horse Bowl Team that placed 1st in New York State.
Extension Connection—Annual Summary
CCESC Community Educator Michelle Lipari was asked to speak at the Urban Ag Conference, hosted by the Horticulture Society of NY
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“The backbone of our nation’s rural communities was, and still is, agriculture, particularly here in New York. A healthy farm economy has proven time and again that it can sustain families, retain jobs and maintain a high quality of life. CCE plays a critical role in helping our farms remain viable through education and business support to adjust to shifting market trends and weather the uncontrollable limitations on production. For our value-added dairy project, we relied on the advice and direction of CCE staff that gained us access to federal and state grants for equipment upgrades. Without their tenacity and diligence, we could not have done it.” -Bob Franklin, Bethel Creamery & Jennifer Grossman, FarmCo New York “Last night I attended a vegetable gardening class at Cornell Cooperative Extension in Liberty. The class was awesome! The ‘Dirt Diva’ was amazing. I had a wonderful time. If you are interested in gardening you should try to attend a class or two. It is very affordable.” - Facebook event review
“4-H has impacted not just my life but my brother, sisters, mothers, grandparents and all three of my uncles lives. If it wasn't for 4-H, I would not be the person I have become today.” - 4-H youth member
“You are continuing to make a difference in the lives of those we serve here at the Federation with the donations from your Intergenerational Textile group. Because of your support, we can continue to open our doors to deserving people experiencing financial hardship in Sullivan County.” - Excerpt from a letter SC Federation for the Homeless program
administrator
“The staff are outstanding people with the best attitudes on the planet!” - Laura, Liberty “Although I cannot always attend the Caregiver Support Meetings it is comforting to know that we have such a strong support group here in Sullivan County. Thank you for all that you do.” - Local caregiver “I had no idea Cornell Cooperative Extension did all this. You offer so many different programs.” - Visitor to CCE booth at Bethel Woods Ag Day
“It was great to see on farm commercial growing techniques and how agriculture can be sustainable even on small acreage.” - Brian Caldwell, Cornell University on high tunnel workshop
“I cannot thank you enough for such an outstanding kayak trip. Both my daughter and myself had a terrific time. Totally an eye opener!” - Attendee on Watershed Kayak Class
“Great experience. I just took the Master Food Preserver class. I loved it. The teachers were just fantastic, just great ladies. I will certainly try other classes in the future.” -Master Food Preserver training participant Page 6
Extension Connection—Annual Summary
January, 2016
Agriculture & Food Systems: Education is directed toward improvement of the food system as a whole from “farm to table�. Programs cover multiple aspects of food security such as soil & herd resources and health, field evaluation of crops, reliable production guidelines, economics of production, and farm management, integrated pest management, healthy produce, fruit and vegetable production and storage, and facilitation of sustainable agriculture and engagement with food system policies work. Education encourages farmers to grow new crop varieties and employ new production and business practices, through programs for the agricultural sector businesses, and informs consumers about improved food products, encouraging adults to serve the foods to children. Farm businesses, horticulturists, and natural resource managers continue producing a stable, safe, and affordable food, feed, fiber, and fuel supplies in sustainable ways.
Environment & Natural Resources: Assists communities in sustaining and obtaining healthy ecosystems for the pleasure and functional viability of youth, families, communities, farms, and businesses. Focused on natural conservation and protection and sustainable energy education that work toward long term planning for sustainable energy and proper use of natural resources. Education on natural resources management includes inventory and mapping methods, habitat, biodiversity, invasive species, alternative land uses, a viable local economy, and a healthy environment critical to protecting, enhancing, and sustaining valuable natural resources. Natural resources include forested mountains, aquatic environments from wetlands and marshes to estuaries to lakes, and an accompanying diversity of plant and animal species.
Community & Economic Vitality: Includes community and economic development processes, sustainability and resiliency, agriculture and food systems development, land use and energy, emergency preparedness, and entrepreneurship and workforce development. Cornell has a commitment to citizens and local officials to build capacity to solve problems and build strong and vibrant communities. Efforts promote community farmland protection initiatives, local foods, entrepreneurship, and public issues education. Our educational programs support inter-municipal and regional collaborations, and new public-private partnerships that spur innovative strategies to address complex community development issues.
Nutrition & Healthy Families: Addresses food insecurity and safety through education on availability of and access to food, certainty of availability and access to food, sufficiency of food, social and cultural acceptability of food, and nutritional quality and safety of food. Work in this program area ties well with our work in agriculture, youth, families, and communities. Extension programs are designed to 1) connect research and practice, 2) result in behavior change, 3) build on the strengths of families and youth, 4) develop strong collaborations resulting in community changes for optimal health promotion and 5) provide policymakers with the knowledge to develop appropriate policies to promote healthy lifestyles. The programs are collaborative and work directly with key community organizations.
Youth & Family Development: Life skills through 4-H science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), civic engagement (citizenship), and healthy living. Family emphases on social & economic wellbeing, quality of home and work environments, elder care practices, programs, and policies affecting the quality of life for children, youth, elders, and their families. The economic security programs aim to empower low and moderate-income households who are especially vulnerable to financial setbacks by promoting financial literacy skills and effective management behaviors. *Program Summaries adapted from CCE Statewide Plans of Work
January, 2016
Extension Connection—Annual Summary
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2015 Program Offerings & Events Production/ Pest Management/ Agricultural Education Herd Health Seminar, Sponsored by Catskills Veterinary Services High Tunnel Management Seminar and Tour at Neversink Farm Corn Plot Field Day, with Cochecton Mills, Delaware Valley Farm & Garden, and Wayne County Extension Pest Management for High Tunnels High Tunnel/Greenhouse Projects with Sullivan BOCES Farm Safety and OSHA Regulations for Farm Owners and Managers Conventional and Organic Pesticide Recertification, Sponsored by NYS Agriculture and Markets and CCE Ulster County Agriculture Business Retention & Expansion Dairy Day/Ag Day, with Wayne County Extension Farm Succession and Estate Planning Farm Tax Workshop Agricultural Districts
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Capacity Building & Collaboration Farm to Institution/School Initiative Ag & Farmland Protection Plan Upper Delaware Roundtable
Farmland Preservation No-Till Seeder Project with Sullicn County Soil & Water Conservation District
New/ Beginning Farmers Intro to Good Agricultural Practices (GAP Certification) Intro to Farming Intro to Commercial Vegetable Gardening Intro to Poultry Farming Value-Added Diversification Meat Processing Rules and Regulations Dairy Processing Project Maple Processing Project Buy Local/ Opening New Markets Farmers’ Market Manager Webinar on WIC/FMNP Sullivan Fresh Initiative Local Food Promotion Farmers’ Market Promotion Program Ag Day at Bethel Woods Harvest Festival Extension Connection—Annual Summary
January, 2016
At a Glance
19 Programs Offered 40 Farm Visits Conducted 1,173 Youth Contacts 1,900 Adult Contacts 100 Walk-Ins Assisted 800 Ag Related Phone Calls Answered
Agricultural Stats for Sullivan County Total Number of Farms: 32 1 Acres in Farmland: 54,000 Total Agricultural Cash Receipts: $27.1 million Agricultural Production Activity: $56.4 million
January, 2016
Extension Connection—Annual Summary
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At a Glance
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20 Programs Offered 95 Youth Contacts 500 Adult Contacts 50 Walk-Ins Assisted 200 Phone Calls Answered
Extension Connection—Annual Summary
January, 2016
A Sampling of 201 5 Program Offerings & Events
Mushroom Identification Informational Class Berries & Brambles Workshop NYS Nut Growers’ Association Meeting Native Plants vs. Invasive Species Class Watershed Kayak Tour, Sponsored by Catskill Watershed Corporation Woodland Owner Forum, Sponsored by CCE ColumbiaGreene Counties Challenges to the Catskill Forests: Understanding Issues and Moving Towards Solutions, CRISP co-hosted training Raising Pheasants 4-H Project “On the Move for Maple Syrup” Campaign Early Detection of Invasive Species I-Map Training Energy Symposium Vermiculture Demonstration Sullivan County Micro-Grid Project Meeting Host Solar Infrastructure Planning and CFA Application Turtle Spring Nature Trail Maintenance Compost Program Training
Earth Day Litter Pluck
Save Energy, Save Dollars, NYSERDA Workshops
January, 2016
Shooting Sports Environmental Education, 4-H Program Shooting Sports Safety Night Shooting Sports Archery Shooting Sports Air Pistol Shooting Sports Air Rifle Shooting Sports Rifle Shooting Sports Shotgun Shooting Sports Muzzle Loading Shooting Sports Living History Trebuchet Project
Extension Connection—Annual Summary
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2015 Program Offerings & Events Master Gardener Volunteer Projects & Activities Philadelphia Flower Show Trip Jr. Master Gardener Series: Veggie Gardening Jr. Master Gardener Series: Fiber Arts Jr. Master Gardener Series: Pollinators Jr. Master Gardener Series: Cooking the Harvest Annual Plant Sale Summer Camp Horticulture Education Program Centerpieces for Community Thanksgiving Dinner & CCESC Annual Gala Sullivan ARC Garden Tour Sullivan Renaissance Church Street Project Speakers’ Bureaus & Community Education Events Bethel Woods Harvest Festival Sullivan Renaissance Expo Farmers’ Markets Sullivan County Youth Fair, Grahamsville Horticulture Education Introduction to Cactus & Succulents Berries & Brambles Basic Gardening—101, 102, 103 Fall Gardening Seminar Growing Microgreens Nut Growing in New York Seed Saving Woman’s Conference at SUNY Sullivan Bethel Woods Harvest Festival Speaking at Local Libraries and Garden Clubs
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Extension Connection—Annual Summary
January, 2016
At a Glance
January, 2016
20 Programs Offered 237 Youth Contacts 375 4-H Youth Community Service Records 1056 Adult Contacts 31 Active Master Gardener Volunteers 200 Walk-Ins Assisted 505 Master Gardener Helpline Inquiries 123 EaT Kitchen Inquiries 3 EaT Kitchen Entrepreneurs
Extension Connection—Annual Summary
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2015 Program Offerings & Events
Dehydration Workshop Tasty Pet Treats Cheese Making 3-Day Master Food Preserver Training Pickling 101 Jams & Jellies Freezing the Harvest Pie Filling Meat Preservation Everything Apples Workshop Cooking the Harvest - Jr. Master Gardeners Healthy Meals & Snacks; 4 Events Eating Healthy on a Budget; 9 Events Rethink Your Drink; 10 events CATCH (Coordinated Approach to Child Health) Physical Activity Is the Key to Living Well; 3 Events How Much Fat Is in That? Enjoy Healthy Food That Tastes Great; 2 Events Workforce Development Workshop with Youth
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Extension Connection—Annual Summary
January, 2016
At a Glance
January, 2016
588 Adult Contacts 172 Youth Contacts 11 Food Preservation Classes 19 Master Food Preservers Trained 31 ESNY Programs; 3 months 3 School Districts Updating Wellness Plans
Extension Connection—Annual Summary
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Some 2015 Program Offerings & Events
Winter Workshops International Night Fair Work Night Horse Bowl Hippology Horse Communications Veterinary Science Series Capital Days STARR Dairy Bowl Competition Sullivan County Youth Fair Necropsy Class Record Book Trainings Public Presentation Orientation County Public Presentations District Public Presentations Horse Program Articulated Skeleton Fundraiser Horse Clinic Horse Qualifying Show Snowmobile Safety Certification Volunteer Trainings Crochet Workshops Community Service Projects Textile Workshops 4-H Window Display Contest 4-H National Science Day Activity Robotics Demonstration
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Junior Awards Trip Livestock Auction Felting Class Sewing Class Achievement Day Building a Community Legacy Together (BCLT) Dog Obedience Raising Pheasants Program Monthly Caregiver Support Groups Preparing for Discharge; 7 Sessions Home Safety; 3 Presentations Living at Home with Arthritis Understanding and Responding to Dementia Taking Medications Safely Grief: What Helps When it Hurts Caring for You, Caring for Me The Longest Loss: Alzheimer ’s Disease Caring for SeniorsMind, Body, and Soul Senior Needs Caregiver Spring Renewal and Retreat Senior Safety Day
Extension Connection—Annual Summary
Caregiver Holiday Recognition Guiding Senior Transitions Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention Effective Communication for Someone with Alzheimer’s
January, 2016
At a Glance
85 Programs Offered 988 Adult Contacts 1733 Youth Contacts 324 Youth 4-H Members 22 Caregiver Group Trainings, Workshops or Lectures 190 Walk-Ins Assisted 276 4-H Youth Volunteers 556 Youth & Family Development Related Calls Answered
SC Youth Fair 321 Still Exhibits 236 Livestock Exhibits 91 Horse Exhibits
NYS Fair - Sullivan County Participation 40 Still Exhibits 16 Livestock Exhibits January, 2016
Extension Connection—Annual Summary
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Volunteer/ Donor Open House & Potluck Wednesday, Jan 13
6:00 to 8:00 pm BRING A DISH! Extension Education Center, Liberty Celebrate another year of volunteerism and stewardship with CCESC!
RSVP: Call 845-292-6180 E-mail sullivan@cornell.edu
Upcoming Programs 2016 January 8
Solar Leases: What You Need to Know
11:00 am — 1:00 pm
January 9
4-H Volunteer Training 101
10:00 am — Noon
January 11
Dairy Lunch & Learn: Cattle Breeding
11:00 am — 1:00 pm
January 13
Volunteer/ Donor Open House & Potluck
6:00 — 9:00 pm
January 16
4-H Volunteer Training 101
10:00 am — Noon
January 17
Home Firearm Safety Course
1:00 — 5:00 pm
January 20
Save Energy, Save Dollars Class
6:00 — 8:00 pm
January 21
Seed Saving with the Dirt Diva
5:30 — 7:30 pm
January 29
4-H International Night
6:00 — 9:00 pm
Space is limited. Paid pre-registration is required. Sorry, no refunds. All workshops held at the Cornell Cooperative Extension Sullivan County Gerald J. Skoda Extension Education Center on 64 Ferndale-Loomis Road in Liberty, NY 12754 unless otherwise indicated.
Registration can be made online, on the phone, by mail or via e-mail. Payment is accepted in cash, check, or credit; online, in office, or by mail. Page 18
Extension Connection—Annual Summary
January, 2016
John Wilcox, CCE Facilities Manager, and star volunteers Phil Coombe Jr. and Jerry Skoda, are working tirelessly to raise $1 million for the Capital Campaign and coordinating infrastructure improvements to ensure the Extension Education Center is a cost effective, safe, interactive learning environment for generations to come. We’re currently raising funds to replace the original, and failing, HVAC system and senior administrator, Tracey Argent, and administrative assistant, Kaitlyn Smith, are planning a mural project to beautify the main hallway of the building. The 4-H team, Sean Welsh, Marylin Jones, and Michelle Lipari , saw a 15% increase in 4-H Youth Development program enrollment and 4 new clubs, with the Sullivan County Shooting Sports program receiving state recognition for their trebuchet project. CCESC is seeking funding to grow the 4-H Youth Development program, including youth involvement in raising livestock for auction and reaching young people in the Monticello, Fallsburg, and Liberty school district catchment areas, by another 20% in 2016. Dependent care educator and Caregiver Resource Center (CRC) coordinator, Bonnie Lewis, RN, hosted over 45 caregiver support groups, opportunities for rest and relaxation, educational supports and professional development series’ for caregivers, as well as community-based and healthcare professionals in a variety of settings. WJFF radiohosted a series of talks with the CRC to make sure seniors and their loved ones receive tips and tricks for keeping safe and well. In 2016, the CRC will increase to a full-time offering as a result of a new funding partnership with the Alzheimer’s Association! The Entrepreneurial and Teaching (EaT) Kitchen hosted its grand opening and is currently home to three budding food entrepreneurs, with two more on deck. Kitchen assistant, Erica Lynch, provided dozens of local food producers with technical assistance in navigating the scheduling, licensing, and market processes. A Local Food Promotion conference is on the horizon in partnership with SUNY Sullivan, Pure Catskills, Catskill Mountainkeeper, and SC Farmers’ Market Association. A year of monthly food entrepreneur and business development workshops is in the planning stages. The Master Food Preserver Volunteers, led by SueAnn Boyd, offered guests from across the country and Canada, three full days of training in the science and art of safe home food preservation techniques, followed by monthly boosters in specific methods. The Ag and Food Systems team, Melinda Meddaugh, Michelle Lipari, executive director Colleen Monaghan, and board vice president Earl Myers, made over 40 farm visits and are leading the implementation of the Agriculture and Farmland Protection Plan in partnership with the Sullivan County Department of Planning and Environmental Management, the Farmland Protection Board, and Ag Task Force. The team has provided more than 20 workshops and demonstrations in animal and vegetable production, including season extension, herd health management, business management and succession planning, invasive pest and weed management, and more. The team also works with Sullivan BOCES to provide hands -on learning for high school students seeking experience and work skills in natural resources, construction, heavy equipment operation, horticulture, and animal sciences. A full catalog of ag related brochures, tips sheets, web resources, and info graphics continues to be developed. The Farm to Institution and Farmers’ Market ProJanuary, 2016
motion collaborations are growing strong and we’re looking forward to enhancing the Ag Business Expansion & Retention program with an additional staff person in 2016. New community horticulture program educator, Dayna ValentiGaeta has settled into the Association nicely, and is creating a rapport with Master Gardener Volunteers as they show her the ropes of the many community service opportunities CCESC hosts and is invited to be involved in. The Community Horticulture program is growing its involvement in the Catskill Edible Garden Project with Sullivan Renaissance and Catskill Mountainkeeper and looking for creative ways to interact with the EaT Kitchen. A winter gardening series is on the docket and plans are underway for a full Master Gardener Volunteer training for a new cohort of volunteers in September of the new year. After a year-long hiatus, the CCE Nutrition and Healthy Families department is back up and running with Eat Smart New York (ESNY) community educator Erica Dahl having provided dozens of workshops and demonstrations in the community around nutrition, rethinking sugary beverages, and easy ways to get in more physical activity. SueAnn Boyd, Jaycee DeGroat, Emily Devore, and Wanda Cruz are working on building the new state Department of Health funded Creating Healthy Schools and Communities project. In partnership with ESNY, these folks will work with the Liberty, Monticello, and Fallsburg school districts and encompassing municipalities to increase walkable communities and encourage policies and practices that make healthy decisions easy for youth, families, and visitors. Early successes include establishing and strengthening school and community wellness committees, purchasing salad bars for several school buildings, and beginning worksite wellness assessments. New walking trails and lots of community outreach are coming up in the new year. Last but certainly not least, public affairs coordinator, Nicole Slevin, has worked tirelessly to streamline CCESC’s local brand and identity so Sullivan County residents know how to contact and engage with their resource of choice. Visit our brand new interactive and educational website at www.sullivancce.org. You can find a host of informational resources you can trust, enroll or register for workshops and events, and make seamless donations and payments. Nicole has also provided staff support to the board’s Fund Development and Marketing Committee, hosting Sullivan County’s first ever Grains to Grapes Tour, and the second annual Afternoon Gala and Live Auction event, which raised over $10,000. With a newly hired director of programs, Susan Hamilton, learning the ropes and reaching out to volunteers, CCESC hopes to expand the reach of the 4-H Youth Development work across the county and reinvigorate the hibernating Energy and Consumer Education program. Stay tuned to the Extension Connection for monthly updates!
Extension Connection—Annual Summary
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Business Spotlight - Schmidt’s Wholesale Schmidt’s Wholesale, Inc. is a family-owned business in Monticello that has served the region since 1954, providing service in wholesale plumbing, heating, HVAC, electrical, pumps, and water works. Schmidt’s is one of the businesses playing a major role in the capital improvements at the CCESC Education Center. Their friendly and knowledgeable staff is guiding the Association through the process of upgrading the heating and cooling equipment, which is in urgent need of replacement. Working with very limited funding, Schmidt’s is helping to select split heating and cooling units with heat pumps that operate with efficiency down to 15 degrees F below zero. Using their recommendations and skilled guidance, CCESC hopes to save at least 40% on our energy bills once the new equipment is installed, freeing up important resources that can be applied towards local educational programming. Much of the consultation that Schmidt’s provides for CCESC has been generously discounted, making the projects reachable with community support. Their assistance also came in handy when the CCE facility transitioned to Town of Liberty water, ordering many of the materials needed at a reduced rate. Schmidt’s has been a member of CCESC for decades and a sponsor for many fundraising efforts. Next time you attend a workshop at the Extension Education Center and feel especially warm and cozy in winter or cool and comfortable in summer, it’s thanks to Schmidt’s!
Volunteer Spotlight - Philip Coombe Jr. & Gerald “Jerry” Skoda Phil Coombe and Jerry Skoda are community leaders whose contributions as professionals and volunteers are well-known. They have been committed to CCE for many years. As partners they bring a standard of excellence, hard work, and an unknown magic that gets things done. Because of their efforts, in less then a year, CCESC owns a building with a new roof that is paid for and Extension is on the way to replace the failing HVAC system. When they stepped up to help CCESC, Phil and Jerry’s shared vision invigorated all of the CCE stakeholders to create an interactive, experiential educational center offering programs and services that are a vital part of Sullivan County's community and economic vitality.
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Extension Connection—Annual Summary
January, 2016
Staff Spotlight - Michelle Lipari Michelle was hired in July of 2013 as community educator for the Agriculture program, as well as the animal science educator for the 4-H Youth Development program. Michelle received her bachelor’s degree in large animal science from Delaware Valley College. Michelle is also the market manager of the Rock Hill Farmers’ Market and fills other farming roles around the county. Michelle was recruited to speak on raising backyard poultry at the Urban Ag Conference event, presented by the Horticulture Society of NY in 2015.
Farm Spotlight - Myers Farm
More than six generations of Myers have tended to the fields and cows on the farm that lies in Jeffersonville, NY. Established in 1842, Myers Farm now has over 150 acres of land and a parlor to milk the family’s cows. Myers Farm is a Century Farm and is now owned and operated by Dawn and Pete Erlwein, who continue the family tradition of farming. The Myers’ are active in the community and are supporters of CCESC, with Earl Myers serving as vice-president of the board of directors and chair of the Program Advisory Committee. Right: Mr. & Mrs. Earl Myers
January, 2016
Extension Connection—Annual Summary
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Employment Value Added
CCESC houses 16 staff members (15 FTE).
12 Exempt Staff Members, 4 Non-Exempt
The average wage with direct fringe is a living wage at $22.56 per hour.
Extension’s employee NYS fringe rate is 56.86% paid by NYS.
Each funded position saves the county $11.55 per hour of work in fringe benefits.
This equates to a total county savings of $337,838 in fringe benefits.
The Value of Volunteers Cornell Cooperative Extension volunteers served over 10,000 hours in 2015. At the NYS volunteer rate* of $23.07 per hour, that amounts to a human investment to Sullivan County of approximately $230,700! Volunteer opportunities are a best practice in helping adults & youth build and maintain essential workforce development skills!
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Extension Connection—Annual Summary
January, 2016
Funder
Project
Amount
Time Period
Federal Smith Lever
General
$10,000
October 1, 2014 - September 30, 2015
NYS County Law 224 Funds
General
$80,321
April 1, 2014 - March 31, 2015
Combined Federal & State Funding
Caregiver Resource Center
$43,000
April 1, 2014 - March 31, 2015
Sullivan County Dept. of Planning & Environmental Management
Ag & Farmland Protection Plan
$25,000
January 1, 2015 - December 31, 2015
NYS, SUNY
Fringe Benefits
$246,000
January 1, 2015 - December 31, 2015
Grants, Contracts, Program Participation, Donations, Fundraising, Other
General, Capital Campaign
$254,348
January 1, 2015 - December 31, 2015
NYS Ag & Markets
Crop Insurance & Pest Management
$1,000
January 1, 2015 - December 31, 2015
NYS Dept. of Health
Creating Healthy Schools & Commu- $249,721 nities - Component A
October 1, 2015 - September 30, 2016
USDA
Sullivan County Farm to Institution Planning Project
September 1, 2015 - August 31, 2016
USDA
Local Food Promotion Program - EaT $94,000 Kitchen
USDA/Sullivan County Dept. of Plan- Farmers’ Market Promotion Program ning & Environmental Management
$36,000
$21,000
October 1, 2015 - September 30, 2017 October 1, 2015 - September 30, 2017
Leveraging County Funding for Impact & Investment Sullivan County appropriated $415,000 to CCESC in 2015, which helped leverage another $760,959 in federal and state funding, grants, and contracts, program fees, donations, and fundraising. This represents a $1.87 match for every dollar in funding provided by Sullivan County. County funding and collaborative partnership is essential and necessary to leverage and realize the benefits CCESC has to offer Sullivan County.
Funder
Project
Time Period
NYSERDA & Cornell University
EmPower NY - Save Energy, Save Dollars
January 1, 2015 - December 31, 2015
CCE Columbia & Greene Counties
CRISP: Early Detection of Invasive Species
January 1, 2015 - December 31, 2015
Cornell University
Building a Community Legacy Together
January 1, 2015 - December 31, 2015
Sullivan Renaissance
Greenhouse & High Tunnel Support
January 1, 2015 - December 31, 2015
Cornell University
Healthy Sprout
January 1, 2015 - December 31, 2015
Catskill Mountainkeeper
Catskill Edible Garden
January 1, 2015 - December 31, 2015
Sullivan Renaissance
Environmental Initiative Grant
January 1, 2015 - December 31, 2015
Sullivan Renaissance
EaT Kitchen Support
January 1, 2015 - December 31, 2015
Catskill Watershed Corp.
Stream & Watershed Education for Sullivan County Teachers in the NYC Watershed
October 1, 2013 - September 30, 2015
Catskill Watershed Corp.
Living by the Stream - Watershed Education for NYC Residents/Part-time Catskill Landowners
October 1, 2013 - September 30, 2015
Sullivan Renaissance
Phase 1 & Phase 2 Maintenance Grants
January 1, 2015 - December 31, 2015
January, 2016
Extension Connection—Annual Summary
Page 23
Thanks so much to all the regular volunteers who brought their energy and enthusiasm to Sullivan County in 2015 through service with Cornell Cooperative Extension Program Advisory Committee Earl Myers, Chair Dawn Boyes Sonja Hedlund Freda Eisenberg John Lang Erika Malmgreen Ed Moran Richard Sheldon Janet Threshman Theresa Viele Diana Weiner Evelyn Weissmann
4-H Strategy Committee Brandi Burk April Kackos Richard Sheldon Danielle Sykes
Karen Coombe Victoria Robinson Jean Smith
Association Volunteers Sally Abrams Richard Boyd Phil Coombe Jr. Joan Howard William Kavleski Elena Mir Kiran Monaghan Garret Newfield Gerald J. Skoda Janice Vooght
Master Gardener Volunteers Janet Barbarite Cindy Barber Marietta Beanland Peg Berg Rachelle Carmack Cindy Coker Helene Chappell Kathy Fielding Mimi Fierle Diane Foster Denise Frangipane Dennis Hewston Judith Maidenbaum Mary Mancuso Darlene Midlang Sandra Nackley Ari Mir-Pontier Denise Patti Kristin Porter Nora Rausch Jackie Saunders Richard Schulman Nancy Schunk Barbara Sush Susan Swann Jana Szabo Jody Tedaldi
Jon Jon Thomas Annalise Vogel Robin Wagner Pamela Zaitchick
CCESC Community Groups Bethelites Calico Geese Fremont Bluebirds Liberty Belles Youngsville Firecrackers
Master Food Preservers Jessica Gibbons Obed & Lilina Lima Karen Mariner Bonnie Makofsky Wendy Tushack Cheyenne Zigmund
Our volunteer list is extensive. If we missed your name, please contact us and we will update our February issue.
4-H Organizational, Project, and General Club Leaders Erin Allen Denise Burkart Amy Barkley-Carey Cheri Bodnaruik Tonya Burk Nicholas Castellano Christine Cavello Brandi Chevalier Sandy Cockshutte William Cockshutte Jonathan Conklin Karen Coombe William Cutler II Kathlene Denman Jessica Dymond Neal Edwards Geraldine Ekker Marcie Ehrman Thomas Gain Peg Geisel KellyAnne Giminiani Diana Hartling Eunice Hartling Page 24
Beverly Hesse Robert Jones April Kackos Robert Kautz Linda Kays Robert Kays Nicole Knight-Sorese John Kratz Tara Kratz Robert Lacey Michael LaFountain MaryPaige Lang-Clouse Jamie Lawrence-Rocker Craig Luckey Robin Luckey Edmund Lutz Karen Mariner Elizabeth McAndrew Barbara McCausland Kara McElroy Lynn McWilliams Tara Mickelson Barbara Moran
Ed Moran Dr. Jamie Noeth Mary Nosek Austin Nunnally Charles Nystrom Jennifer Nystrom Kathleen O'Rourke Colleen Osterhout Dennis Peters Susan Peters Jenny Phelps Kelly Plescia Mark Plescia Robin Raykoff James Reilly Karen Reilly David Robinson Rebecca Robinson Victoria Robinson Michael Rocker Lisa Rose Nannette Schips Victoria Schutte
Extension Connection—Annual Summary
Susan Sennett Gary Shaver Lisa Shaver Steingart Christina Shaw Jennifer Sheldon Richard Sheldon Jean Smith Kaitlyn Smith Christine Smith-Cox Jane Sorensen Amy Sykes Kim Szabo-Lutz James Uciechowski Theresa Uciechowski Kody Viele Theresa Viele Leah Mae Waldron Evelyn Weissmann Mary Wells Skye Wilbur Shawn Wilcox
January, 2016
Contributors and Sponsors: Thank you for making an important investment for farmers, families, and young people. Adrienne Hamilton Albert Demarmels Amanda Langseder Anne E. Holt Barbanti Group Bernadine A. Wasiczko Bethelites Bill Hennig Bonnie Cunningham Bonnie Hamilton Bonnie Lewis Brian Brustman Buck Brook Alpacas Inc. Calico Geese of Sullivan County Carla Hahn Carlton Adkins Carol Norris Carol Smythe CD Trips LLC Chantel Forger Charlotte Stratton Chartral A'dze' Cochecton Mills Inc. Coon Rod & Gun Club Craig A. Stewart Cynthia McKenna David & Marylin Rabenhorst Debra Thony Diane N. Provost Donna Willi Douglas B. Cauthers Earl Bertsch Earl Myers Elizabeth M. Sherwood Fosterdale Equipment Corp. Fred O. Miller
Michael Cerullo Michael Schulte Memorial Fund Michelle Lipari Nancy Hook Nicole Slevin NYS 4-H Foundation Oak Ridge Farm Inc. Patrick McNamara Peter Johnston Phil Coombe Philip Coombe Jr. Raymond & Dorothy Muthig Richard A. Ehrmann Richard Sheldon Rita Distante Rivendale Inc. Robert Bruce Cobb & Linda Hartley Rose Bogaert Russell Asnes Ruth Ann Brockner Ruth E. McKeon Ruth Halligan Salvatore & Alice Federico Sam & Nancy Hook Shirley Schwartz Sonja Hedlund & Dick Riseling Stanley Grant Steven Mogel Stone Wall Farms - Eddie Moran Stuart Salenger Susan J Brustein-Straus Thomas B. Mccormick Wade Sauchuk Willam & Patricia Berman William Bolte William Cann
G. Carlton Adkins Gary & Linda Mall Gerald & Rosemary Skoda Geraldine Mansueto Glenn Pontier Helen G. Hoering Janet Hubert Janet Threshman Jean Cellini Jeanne M. Scott Jeff Bank Joan Howard John Lagatta John Politidis Joyce Ohrvall Judy Van Put Jurgens Painting Co. Kitty Vetter Kristt Kelly Office Systems Corp. Lawanda Ervin Leonard Bauer Les & Tammy Kirby Liberty Belles Liliam Stettner Lillian Constant Linda Rajlevsky Lois Duffy Loraine Kuebler Lynn Allison Miller Majek Furniture Warehouse Marguerite A. Banks Marian E. Fries Martin & Shirley Schwartz Mary Paige Lang-Clouse Mary Schumacher McQuade Diesel Repair Inc.
The following list of individuals and companies have donated products, time or support to one or more of our programs in 2014. The following lists are extensive. If we missed your name, please contact us and we will update our March issue. We thank you all, and could not continue our programming without you! Achieve Rehab & Nursing Facility Action Toward Independence Agriculture Task Force Aileen Gunther Albi Beluli Alzheimer Association Annalise Vogel January, 2016
Apple Pond Farm & Renewable Energy Center Art Salomon, NYS Licensed Fishing Guide Barbara Slater Bashakill Vineyards Beaver Dam Brook Farm
Bernie’s Holiday Restaurant Bethel Woods Center for the Arts Bethelites Body, Mind, & Spirit Wellness Center Bonnie Makofsky Bradley Boat Rentals Buck Brook Alpacas Farm
Calico Geese Quilter's Guild Carol Smythe Catskill Brewery Catskill Chronicle
Catskill Forest Association Catskill Harvest Mkt. Catskill Mountain Sugar House
The above list is extensive. If we missed your name, please contact us and we will update our February issue.
Extension Connection—Annual Summary
Page 25
Catskill Mountainkeeper Catskill Regional Invasive Species Partnership Catskill Veterinary Services Catskill Watershed Corporation CCE GreeneColumbia CCE Orange CCE Ulster CCESC Master Gardener Volunteers CCESC Staff Charlie Barbuti Furniture Mall Chestnut Creek Baked Goods Chris Gibson Chris Parrow Pottery Cochecton Mills Common Waters Partnership Constance Lescano Coon Rock Rod & Gun Club County of Sullivan IDA Crystal Falls Farm/ George Dean Danuta Skorulska Darlene Fedun Dave Forshay Dawn & Peter Erlwein Dawn Boyes Deborah Worden Delaware Highlands Conservancy Delaware Highlands Mushroom Society Delaware Valley Farm & Garden Dick’s Auto Sales Diehl Family Domenic Buccigrossi Donna Davies Earl & Marion Myers Eastern Electric Ed & Barbara Moran Eddie Moran Jr. Ellen Galligan Empty Spaces/ Troy Grant Page 26
Eureka Café Farm Service Agency Fire Mountain Kitchen Fisher Farms Forestburgh Playhouse Fosterdale Equipment Fred Stabbert III Frost Valley YMCA/ Bob Eddings Garigliano Law Offices Gary Meyers Excavation, Inc. Gerald & Rosemary Skoda Glenn & Ari Pontier Gorzynksi Ornery Farm Hannah Corbett Hestia’s Garden Hofer Lumber Holiday Mountain Ski & Fun Park Hospice Foundation of Orange & Sullivan Hudson Valley Agriculture Development Corporation IShotStudios James Lyttle Jan Hirsch Jane Orcutt Janet Barbarite Jeff Bank Jerry & Linda Monaghan Jessica Gibbons Jill Farrow Joan Howard Jodi Goodman John Kidd Photography John Wilcox Greenhouse John's Natural Wood Wine Racks Joseph Nebzydoski Josh Druckman Kaiser Kitchen Supply Karen Mariner Karin Pantel Kirbytown Farms Kitty Vetter Klein Excavating Lander’s Café
Lander's River Trips Laura Mulvihill Lazy Pond Bed & Breakfast Lee Siegel Legal Services of the Hudson Valley Les Kristt Liberty Agway Liberty Police Dept. Liberty Trading Post Liliam Stettner Majestic Farm Martha Johnston Mary Lissner Mary Magnetico Mary Mancuso Michael Salomon Photography Misner Insurance Agency/ Greg Goldstein Monticello Home & Garden Myers Century Farm NACL Theatre Narrowsburg Feed & Grain Co. National Park Service Natural Contents Kitchen Natural Resource Conservation Service Natural Valley Kitchen Neversink Ag Society Neversink Farm Nugent & Haeussler, PC Nut Growers Association NY Giants NY Jets NYC DEP NYS Ag & Markets NYS DEC NYS EPIC NYS Maple Assoc. NYS Rifle & Pistol Association NYSERDA PAZDAR Winery Penny & Dick Coombe Phil Coombe Jr.
Philip & Carolyn Coombe Picciano Adrianne Priscilla Bassett Prohibition Distillery Pure Catskills River Reporter Roberta ByronLockwood & Herb Clark Rock Hill Business Association Rondout/ Neversink Stream Program Root ‘N Roost Roscoe Beer Co. Sally & Jack Abrams SC Chamber of Commerce SC Childcare Council SC Conservation Club SC Dairy Promotion SC Democrat SC Division of Planning & Environmental Management SC Dramatic Workshops SC Farm Bureau SC Friends of NRA SC Friends with Firearms SC Long Beards SC Office for the Aging SC Parks & Rec. SC Partnership SC Public Health SC Rifle & Pistol Association SC Visitor’s Association Schmidt’s Wholesalers Smith & Son’s Smith Family Soil & Water Conservation District Sportsman’s Den Stacey Cohen
Extension Connection—Annual Summary
Stan Ehrenberg Photography Steven Mogel, Attorney at Law Stone Ridge Farm Stone Wall Farms Story's Neversink Plant Company Sue Buzzel Sullivan Alliance for Sustainable Development Sullivan BOCES Sullivan Renaissance SUNY Sullivan Susan Strauss Swan Lake Golf & Country Club The Rustic Cottage Thunder 102 Thunder View Farms & Coombe Family Times Herald Record Tonjes Farm Tractor Supply Co. Tri-Valley FFA USDA Rural Dev. USO Holstein Club Vallone, Phil/ Rolling V Bus Co. Vanessa Lescano Vapur, Inc Villa Roma Resort & Conf. Ctr. Wayne Independent Welsh Cabin White Lake Wine & Spirits Shop Wholesale Kitchen Equipment Winterton Farms WJFF WSUL/WVOS Yiasou Café YNN
The above list is extensive. If we missed your name, please contact us and we will update our February issue.
January, 2016
Charles Keating Cell: 570-430-1045 Fax: 570-689-2688
Cornell Cooperative Extension Sullivan County is looking for a new or used in good condition donations of the following items:
Lawn tractor (with plow if possible) Photos or paintings for our building 6’ and 8’ tables New amp for shows (please call for details) Refrigerator for youth building 100’ cable and padlock to secure rabbit cages Fencing materials for the show ring Stools (2-3) for volunteer hotline counter Gardening tools and gloves
January, 2016
Extension Connection—Annual Summary
Page 27
Earl Kinney
Excavating & Trucking Ready To Meet Your Needs Free Estimates - 40 Years Experience DRAINAGE SEPTIC SYSTEMS FOUNDATIONS DRIVEWAYS ROADS PONDS LAND CLEARING GRADING STONE SAND GRAVEL REDSHALE
No Job Too Big or Too Small
887-5540
OFFICE - 46 ROCK AVE., HORTONVILLE EVENINGS - 887-5647
Bulldozing
Trucking & Hauling
J. HUGHSON EXCAVATING, INC. - CONSTRUCTION -
Foundations — Sand — Gravel—Fill—Topsoil Septic Systems Installed
845-482-9826
RD #1, Box 305 Jeffersonville, NY 12748
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