2018 ANNUAL REPORT: FARMS, FOOD, & FAMILY TABLE OF CONTENTS Page 3..........Message From the Executive Director
Page 16-17..............................................Staff Congrats
Page 4................................................2018 Financials
Page 18-19.......................................Word on the Street
Page 5......................2018 Inclusion Survey Results
Page 20-21............................................Partner Profiles
Page 6-7.........................................Focus on FARMS
Page 22-23........................................Sponsor Spotlight
Page 8-10..........................................Focus on FOOD
Page 24-25..............................................Our Volunteers
Page 11-13.....................................Focus on FAMILY
Page 26-27.............Partners, Donors, and Supporters
Page 14-15...........................................Ask the Board
Back Page.........................................Free Class Passes!
NECESSARY BUSINESS The Extension Connection (USPS-525-100) is published monthly for $25.00 enrollment by Cornell Cooperative Extension 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.
REGULAR OFFICE HOURS
EXTENSION CONNECTION VOLUME XC No. 2
8:30 am to 4:30 pm Monday-Friday
Edited by: Nicole Slevin & Colleen Monaghan
Phone: 845-292-6180
Produced by: Cornell Cooperative Extension Sullivan County
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CONNECT WITH US Website: www.sullivancce.org E-mail: sullivan@cornell.edu Twitter.com/ccesullivan Facebook.com/ccesullivan Instagram.com/cce_sullivan_county YouTube > bitly.com/ccesullivan
2018 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Robert Kaplan.............................President Amy Erlwein........................Vice President Dawn Parsons.............................Treasurer John Kiefer..................................Secretary Nadia Rajsz......................Legislative Rep. Todd Brown Jenny Chamberlain Marcie Ehrman Denise Frangipane Sonja Hedlund John “JP” Lang Erin Mason Klu Padu Luisa Parker Robert Wong
Cornell Cooperative Extension Sullivan County is an employer and educator recognized for valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities and provides equal program and employment opportunities. NOTICE: Official endorsement of advertisers and their products is not intended by the acceptance of their advertisements for the Extension Connection.
STAFF MEMBERS Colleen Monaghan................................................................................Executive Director SueAnn Boyd.......................................................Healthy Schools Program Coordinator Kaitlyn Conklin...............................................................................................4-H Educator Wanda V. Cruz............................................Healthy Communities Program Coordinator Jessica Glassel......................................................................................Finance Assistant Beth Johnston-Groth.................................................................Administrative Assistant Marylin Jones............................................................................4-H Program Coordinator Bridget Kackos......................................................................................Program Assistant Bonnie Lewis............................................................................Dependent Care Educator Erica Lynch..........................................................Catskills Kitchen Program Coordinator Tharicia McZorn...........................................................Parenting & Family Life Educator Melinda Meddaugh.....................................................Ag & Food Systems Team Leader Barbara Moran..............................................4-H Animal Science Program Coordinator Bee Moser..................................................................................Eat Smart NY Nutritionist Vanessa Pahucki.....................................................................Taste NY Market Manager Michelle Proscia................................................................................Agriculture Educator Nicole Slevin..................................................................Administrator & Diversity Officer Tara VanHorn..........................................................................................Finance Manager Malinda Ware................................................................................Senior Program Leader Sean Welsh..............................................................................Energy Resource Educator John Wilcox...........................................................................................Facilities Manager Mary Winter.................................................................Temporary Horticulture Assistant PAGE 2
FARMS
FOOD
FAM ILY
MESSAGE FROM CCE SULLIVAN EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR As we reflect on Cornell Cooperative Extension (CCE) Sullivan County’s 104th year, it’s important to remember the roots and original vision for Extension in New York State. In 1888, Cornell professor Liberty Hyde Bailey began his work at Cornell University by building a new kind of curriculum. One that didn’t just sentence a student to hours of reading and bleary lecture, but incorporated visual demonstrations, real-time experiments, bulletins, and in-the-field farm visits. The idea was to immerse students in knowledge that gave them practical experience to apply in the real world. Sixteen years later in 1904, when the New York State Legislature passed a bill establishing the New York State College of Agriculture at Cornell, Bailey was its first dean, appointed the college’s first women professors, and launched his hands-on, experiential learning model to the general public through Extension work. By reaching outside of the campus environment, he promoted the "any person, any study" philosophy that drives the purpose of Extension in local communities to this very day. Sullivan County government had the wherewithal to see that Extension was to be of great benefit to the local constituency, and created its own local office in 1914. The 2018 Annual Report provides just a snapshot of the civic engagement and informal learning opportunities the thirty Extension staff and more than 350 Sullivan County adult and youth volunteers have experienced and facilitated, making more than 12,000 contacts with Extension programs this year. The theme of this year’s annual report, as was our annual meeting, is Farms, Food, and Family. These three words could be said to sum up the original values of Extension in one small, but mighty, catch phrase. In 2019 and 2020, the CCE Sullivan board of directors’ strategic planning committee will begin the work of looking towards 2021-2025 to create the next five-year strategic plan. With a goal of keeping with the original vision of "any person, any study," the group is charged with the challenge of ensuring access to Extension programming to an ever diverse community, with ever diverse challenges and interests. As such, be on the lookout for various opportunities to participate in focus groups, surveys, and popup outreach activities to help us make sure that we’re meeting the needs and interests of the Sullivan County community. Until then, I hope you enjoy taking a look back with us on 2018. Happy new year and the board, program advisory committee, staff and I look forward to continuing to serve you through Extension.
My very best,
Colleen Monaghan, Executive Director
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FINANCIALS 2018 ESTIMATED SOURCES OF SUPPORT Federal 1% State 4% Other Programs, Fundraising 4% & Operating Revenues Sullivan County Appropriations 24% 26% NYS Fringe Benefits Local, Federal, & State 41% Grants /Contracts
2018 ESTIMATED SUPPORT ALLOCATION 1% 9% 10% 11% 22% 22% 23%
Fundraising Facilities Community & Economic Vitality Administration Youth & Families Ag & Food Systems / Environment & Natural Resources Nutrition & Healthy Families
2018 GRANTS & CONTRACTS Alzheimer’s Association, Hudson Valley Chapter Combined Federal & State Funding Cornell Cooperative Extension Columbia & Greene Counties Cornell Cooperative Extension Madison County Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County Federal Smith Lever National Rifle Association Foundation Newman’s Own NYS County Law 224 Funds NYS Department of Agriculture & Markets NYS Department of Agriculture & Markets NYS Department of Agriculture & Markets NYS Department of Agriculture & Markets NYS Department of Health NYS Department of Health NYS Office of Children & Family Services NYS Office of Children & Family Services/Monticello School Distict NYS Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance NYSERDA/Cornell Cooperative Extension Dutchess County State University of New York (SUNY) Sullivan County Center for Workforce Development Sullivan County Division of Planning & Community Development Sullivan County Division of Planning & Community Development Sullivan County Division of Planning & Community Development Sullivan County Farm Bureau Sullivan County Office for the Aging Sullivan County SCORE Sullivan County Youth Bureau Sullivan Renaissance United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)
$22,065 $43,000 $2,000 $450 $6,737 $10,500 $3,807 $5,000 $80,321 $5,000 $385 $96,153 $436,000 $192,960 $15,000 $5,000 $11,986 $101,691 $70,000 $512,782 $600 $25,000 $55,000 $10,000 $400 $7,600 $300 $4,000 $12,000 $118,000
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CARES Caregiver Resource Center CRISP : Early Detection of Invasive Species Ag & NYS Standardbred Horse Development Equine Clinic Eat Smart New York Hudson Valley Smith Lever 4-H Shooting Sports Equipment Grant Newman’s Own Grant State 224 County Fair Premiums State Fair Premiums Youth Fair Infrastructure Grant Hudson Valley Catskills Welcome Center | Taste NY Woodbury Creating Healthy Schools & Communities: CHSC Chronic Disease Self Management Program Fallsburg Schools: Cooking with Cornell Empire Afterschool Program & Parenting Education Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Education: CHSC Community Energy Engagement Program Fringe Benefits Youth Financial & Leadership Education Agricultural Related Services Ag Business Retention & Expansion Farmers’ Market Promotion Program Ag in the Classroom Tai Chi & Powerful Tools for Caregivers Multiple Business Workshops 4-H Youth Development Program Multiple Initiatives Business Development Grant
INCLUSION SURVEY DIVERSITY & INCLUSION: COMPLIANCE TO COMPASSION! Cornell Cooperative Extension is committed to building and sustaining a welcoming, supporting environment for participants, volunteers, and staff at all levels. This year, we released a 3 question “Inclusion Survey” which received 189 submissions. These graphics show how the public responded and areas to consider in future planning.
QUESTION 1 Which factors could prevent you from attending CCE Sullivan programs? Scheduling Class Fees Location or Transportation Program Topics Childcare Access
QUESTION 2 What program topics would you like to see in the future?
23% 17% 12% 8% 8%
MORE RESPONSES
T E C H N O LO GY
Other 6% Internet/Phone Access 5% Physical Ability 4% Equipment/Supplies 3% Mental Health 3% Language Barriers 2% Access to Clothing 2%
FOR BEGINNERS
RAISING
H O NEY B EES
NEW LANGUAGE CLASSES
Lack of Food/Refreshments 2% Technology 2% Confidentiality 1% Learning Ability 1% Citizenship Status 1% Literacy 1% Religion 1%
QUESTION 3 What are the best ways to inform you of classes, events, & services?
F OR BUSIN ESS E S
S P I N N I N G + W E AV I N G
Social Media
LEARN HOW TO START AN
ORCHARD
Website
CHILDREN' S
Newspaper
FA R M V I S I T S
WOMEN' S SAFE T Y POND STOCKING &
MAINTENANCE
DAIRY STEER & BEEF BREED NUTRITION
LIFE SKILLS FOR ADULTS PAGE 5
Text Messages
18% 15% 13% 9% 8%
MORE RESPONSES Word of Mouth 8% Radio 6% Bulletin Boards 6% Direct Mail 5%
Online Calendars 4% Television 4% Digital Radio 2% Other 2%
Diversity and Inclusion are a part of Cornell University’s heritage. We are a recognized employer and educator valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities.
FARMS BEGINNER FARMERS
BY THE NUMBERS 2075 CONTACTS 166 VISITS ON 81 FARMS 40 WORKSHOPS 10 CATSKILLS KITCHEN RENTERS
AG BUSINESS RETENTION & EXPANSION PROGRAM The Ag Business Retention & Expansion Program, supported by the County Legislature and Division of Planning and Community Development, offered 6 workshops, made 166 visits to 81 farms, and provided technical assistance to over 100 farmers and/or beginner farmers.
Staff conducted field visits and meetings with landowners looking to start farming, and educated beginning farmers in production, ag assessments, ag districts, business planning, regulations, and land ownership. CCE Sullivan offered multiple on-farm beginner farmer workshops at Winterton Farms, Majestic Farm, and Gorzynski Ornery Farm.
DAIRY RESPONSE In collaboration with dairy farms and partners like Hudson Valley AgriBusiness Development Corporation (HVADC), Sullivan County Funding Corporation (SCFC), Agricultural and Community Development Services LLC, Sullivan County Government, and Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther’s office, CCE is working on new opportunities for the dairy industry in Sullivan County. The process includes connecting farms to ag-related support organizations and funding, and coordinating brainstorming sessions to explore new market opportunities.
FARMERS' MARKET PROMOTION PROJECT In partnership with Sullivan County Government and farmers' market managers, CCE provided marketing and educational outreach for farmers' markets across the county, offered nutritional cooking demonstrations, and information on gardening and invasive species. NOVEMBER 2018 DHI REPORT
DECEMBER 2018 DHI REPORT
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FARMS CAREER FAIR BRIDGES THE GAP BETWEEN AG JOBS AND WORKERS The CCE Sullivan Agriculture & Food Systems team, in partnership with SUNY Sullivan, created a career and job fair to provide an outlet for farms and agribusinesses in the Sullivan Catskills area to fill employment openings. The project was created due to an identified need from farmers and agribusinesses for agricultural workers in Sullivan County. According to the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), in 2015 there were 57,900 high skilled jobs in agriculture, renewable natural resources, and environmental fields within the US. However, only 35,400 people graduated with a bachelor’s degree in one of those fields that year. This left the US with 22,500 agricultural related jobs unfilled. These statistics do not account for thousands more lesser skill farm-related jobs that go unfilled every year due to lack of interest or knowledge of them by potential workers. There is a pressing need for agricultural workers all across the US, and Sullivan County is not immune to the trend. Over 200 people attended the Agriculture Career & Job Fair on April 4, 2018 with 20 businesses tabling, and more than 40 jobs posted. College students networked with exhibitors for potential post graduate employment. More than 25 Sullivan BOCES high school students learned about future careers and summer employment opportunities, and toured Hope Farm on SUNY Sullivan’s campus. CCE will continue to support Sullivan County agriculture by providing an online resource of agriculture-related employment on its website at www.sullivancce.org. Looking towards the future, CCE plans to make the Ag Career & Job Fair an annual event, with more farms and businesses, more jobs posted, and more job seekers in attendance. CCE is committed to addressing agricultural labor issues in Sullivan County and will continue to do so into the future.
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FOOD EAT SMART NY HUDSON VALLEY BY THE NUMBERS
CATSKILLS KITCHEN FOOD BUSINESS INCUBATOR
5,590 PEOPLE REACHED
10 users produced sauces, baked goods, and prepared foods in the Catskills Kitchen Food Business Incubator, CCE Sullivan's state-of-the-art commercial kitchen facility. New in 2018, a food truck rents space as well. CCE provided technical assistance through in person consultations, email, and phone calls regarding regulations, food business start-ups, labeling, marketing, and business planning to over 800 contacts.
2,521 YOUTH REACHED
HUDSON VALLEY CATSKILLS WELCOME CENTER | TASTE NY WOODBURY In October 2018, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced the grand opening of the Hudson Valley Catskills Welcome Center | Taste NY Woodbury located at the Woodbury Commons Premium Outlets in Central Valley, NY, of which CCE Sullivan is the contracted operator. The brand-new welcome center serves as a modern gateway to the Hudson Valley and Catskills vacation regions, supporting New York State’s commitment to growing regional economies and promoting local tourism, foods, and craft beverages across the state. The on-site Taste NY market offers locally-made food and gifts like artisanal jams, maple products, honey, chips and crackers, granola, organic personal care products, wooden serving ware, and more.
BENJAMIN COSOR NATURE TRAIL FALLSBURG CSD 2.5 years in the making, with damaging winds, downed trees, flooding, and an enormous amount of volunteer time, the Benjamin Cosor Nature Trail, “Where Nature and Wellness Unite”, was opened to the school and community on October 23, 2018. PAGE 8
FOOD
FREE FARM STAND IN MONTICELLO Greg Howard, executive director of Ulster County Community Action, teamed up with the Food Bank of the Hudson Valley to offer the first Free Farm Stand in Monticello in September 2018. CCE's Eat Smart New York Hudson Valley staff person was present to deliver nutrition education and experienced firsthand how 8,000 lbs. of produce moved in a few hours. In August, CCE helped give out fresh and healthy produce to 492 people. From there, word spread and social media did its magic. In September, 641 individuals received fresh produce. In October, the numbers grew even more with 747 people receiving fresh and healthy fruits and vegetables. Thanks to this agency partnership, Sullivan County families have the opportunity to access free, farm-fresh produce once a month. Bravo!
FREE+FRESH PRODUCE FOR 1,880 PEOPLE PAGE 9
FOOD
HEALTHY CELEBRATIONS
WARRIOR KIDS In partnership with Catskill Regional Medical Center, Ayo Fitness, and CCE's Eat Smart NY Hudson Valley program, the Warrior Kids program served 750+ kids. This program is designed to inspire kids to develop lifelong healthy habits through education, fitness, and fun! Each week, kids benefit from an educational session, followed by a high-energy workout.
After negotiations with the board of education, policy was officially updated to change birthday celebrations and healthy fundraisers to meet or exceed USDA Smart Snacks in School Nutrition Standards. Celebration carts and healthy menus are now a standard in Liberty and Fallsburg schools, provided by CCE’s Creating Healthy Schools program.
The Warrior Kids program emphasizes the 5-2-1-Almost None formula, which focuses on eating 5 or more fruits and vegetables every day, watching fewer than 2 hours of screen time, getting 1 hour of physical activity per day, and having Almost No sugary drinks. The program runs for 4 consecutive weeks. At graduation, new Warrior Kids receive a gift bag and have a celebration with healthy salsa, fruit-infused water, and dancing. Warrior Kids was awarded an Innovation Award from the Community Foundation of Orange & Sullivan!
1,000+ WARRIOR
KIDS STUDENT AND STAFF GRADUATES IN SULLIVAN & ORANGE COUNTIES!
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FAMILY
BY THE NUMBERS 1265 PEOPLE ASSISTED 45 CALLS FOR CAREGIVER ASSISTANCE 19 PARTICIPANTS IN 3 FREE CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUPS (IN GRAHAMSVILLE, CALLICOON, LIBERTY) 94 WORKSHOPS 6 OUTREACH/HEALTH & WELLNESS EVENTS
PARTICIPANTS BY THE NUMBERS LIVING HEALTHY, LIVING WELL SERIES: 18 TAI CHI FOR ARTHRITIS FOR FALL PREVENTION: 36 ALZHEIMER’S ASSOCIATION CARES DEMENTIA FOCUS: 16
URBAN SPRINKLER BEACH Heather Jacksy, a Sullivan County employee, wanted to create an event with the sole purpose of inspiring some FUN into the Monticello community. And who doesn’t want their community to be happier and healthier? With the help of Sullivan Renaissance, CCE’s Creating Healthy Communities program, and Eat Smart NY Hudson Valley, “Sprinkler Beach” was born. Volunteers painted a realistic beach with ocean waves, sand with sea stars, sand toys, and seashells. There were water sprinklers, beach chairs, hula hoops, and dancing. After everyone tired from running through sprinklers, they could enjoy a healthy, free lunch, and pack some donated produce to take home thanks to Willow Wisp Organic Farm and Beaverdam Brook Farms. Everyone received information on healthy eating and making healthy choices. Sprinkler beach will return next summer!
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FAMILY TAI CHI FOR ARTHRITIS FOR FALL PREVENTION Tai Chi for Arthritis for Fall Prevention has been offered in 9 Sullivan County locations over 3 years, totaling 144 class hours. A total of 108 seniors have graduated since the program’s inception in 2016, with 50 graduating in fall 2018. Data provided from the Center for Excellence in Aging & Community Wellness reveals that 80% of seniors who completed the program felt the program reduced their fear of falling, and 67% were now not at all concerned about falling after the program.
TAI CHI VOLUNTEERS 3 new volunteers joined CCE’s Caregiver Resource Center Tai Chi for Arthritis for Fall Prevention program on May 30, 2018. After completing an intense two-day training in Cooperstown, Dyan Campbell, Susan Hamlin, and Katie Franco received their certifications as trained leaders from the Tai Chi for Health Institute, developed by Dr. Paul Lam. These volunteers will continue to provide this evidenced based curriculum recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to assist seniors with improving their strength, balance, and posture, helping to prevent falls.
80% OF SENIORS
WHO COMPLETED THE TAI CHI PROGRAM REPORTED A REDUCTION IN THEIR FEAR OF FALLING. PAGE 12
FAMILY LIVING HEALTHY, LIVING WELL CCE successfully provided Chronic Disease Self-Management classes (retitled Living Healthy, Living Well) in Sullivan County through funding from the NYS Department of Health in the spring of 2018. Bonnie Lewis, RN was joined by Action Toward Independence Systems Advocate Shawn Comfort to facilitate 6 two-hour classes in three locations, totalling 18 classes and 28 individuals served!
WORKSITE WELLNESS 3 attendees from the 2017 Workplace Wellness Summit became teachers at the 2018 Summit. They joined a panel and spoke to the audience about the progress made at their agencies. The 3 sites include Jeff Bank, Sullivan County Government, and SullivanArc.
4-H COMMUNITY SERVICE 72 individuals and 4 clubs with 4-H representing an additional 46 youth, turned in over 420 records of community service for the 2017-2018 program year. The record submissions illustrate a wide range of youth service experiences including litter plucks and community beautification; programs delivered at nursing homes; hands-on intergenerational activities; donations secured for school backpack programs, local food pantries and meal sites; fundraising to support shelters, animal rescue, or health research; providing youth leadership in support of local events; and more. One specific project involved a 4-H “Live, Love, Serve: 4-H 5K� race in Sullivan County, a first of its kind, which will continue to raise money annually for a scholarship fund. PAGE 13
ASK THE BOARD “I go to all my scheduled doctors’ appointments and take my vitamins.”
“I don’t smoke, drink, or chew; I workout occasionally to Beachbody and Zumba DVDs, avoid fried foods, and recently got a dog that incentivizes me to take regular walks. Lastly, once in a while, I dance like nobody’s watching...which they aren’t!”
ROBERT KAPLAN PRESIDENT
LUISA PARKER
HOW DO YOU STAY HEALTHY?
“Eat a healthy vegetarian diet, stay active, try to get enough sleep.” “I go fishing and hunting. It keeps my mind clear.”
MARCIE EHRMAN
DAWN BOYES TREASURER
“Use local, raw honey and maple syrup instead of sweeteners.” TODD BROWN
“I make sure to take just a little quiet time for myself each evening.” DENISE FRANGIPANE
“I believe moderation is key as well as a focus on wellness as a whole. I believe taking care of mental health through adequate amounts of sleep and stress control are as important as eating healthy and exercising.”
"No alcohol or smoking. Let things go. Harboring ill feelings is self destructive.”
ERIN MASON
JOHN KIEFER SECRETARY PAGE 14
ASK THE BOARD
HOW DO YOU STAY HEALTHY?
“I eat fresh garlic and meditate.” JENNY CHAMBERLAIN
“I grow most of my own food, both meats and vegetables, and preserve them as well. Being a farmer means being very active.”
AMY ERLWEIN VICE PRESIDENT
“Everything in moderation and be open to trying new things.” ROBERT WONG “Being active every day caring for sheep, goats, chickens and horses. Growing most of what I eat: goat milk, meat, cheese, eggs, veggies. Grass roots work with others to make our community inclusive and just.”
“I work out 5 days per week and play basketball on the sixth day and eat a vegetarian diet.”
SONJA HEDLUND
KLU PADU
“Farming keeps me active and healthy.” JOHN “JP” LANG
“No smoking at all, no drinking alcohol (occasionally only), increasing drinking water, making a real effort to not eat fast foods, and increase eating salads."
NADIA RAJSZ LEGISLATIVE REPRESENTATIVE PAGE 15
STAFF CONGRATS BONNIE LEWIS DEPENDENT CARE EDUCATOR Bonnie was recertified as a Tai Chi for Arthritis for Fall Prevention Instructor by Board Certified Master Trainer Lorraine Noval, under Tai Chi for Health Institute and has trained hundreds of people in this new CCE initiative. Bonnie was awarded Extension Professional of the Year 2017 at CCE Sullivan's 103rd Annual Meeting.
NICOLE SLEVIN ADMINISTRATOR & DIVERSITY OFFICER Nicole completed Cornell University Supervisor Orientation program and sexual harassment training certification, graduated as a Hudson Valley Pattern for Progress Fellows Program alumni, celebrated 10 years of CCE service, and was awarded Extension Professional of the Year 2018 at CCE Sullivan’s 104th Annual Meeting.
SUEANN BOYD HEALTHY SCHOOLS COORDINATOR SueAnn is a trained Sullivan 180 Community Health Champion; certified ServSafe Instructor and registered ServSafe Examination Proctor; Community Health Worker: Health Coaching, Healthy Lifestyles, Hypertension and Diabetes; Yoga4Classrooms Implement Leader; CCE Wellness Committee President 2018; Cornell University Master Food Preserver Volunteer, and celebrates 13 years of service to CCE and the community!
KAITLYN CONKLIN 4-H EDUCATOR Kaitlyn presented a genetics workshop at Cornell University Animal Crackers, and partnered with a 4-H member to offer hands-on demonstrations. She also presented her own personal lifelong experience in the 4-H program to the Sullivan County Legislature and started afterschool programming in the Monticello Central School District.
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STAFF CONGRATS MELINDA MEDDAUGH AG & FOOD SYSTEMS TEAM LEADER Melinda presented as a panel speaker at the state-wide CCE Ag, Food, & Environmental In-Service, and on a Farm to School panel at Monticello School District. In 2018, Melinda is responsible for bringing more than $500,000 in grant money into Sullivan County. She is an elected council member for the Town of Thompson.
MICHELLE PROSCIA AGRICULTURE EDUCATOR Michelle was chosen as one of the Sullivan County Democrat’s 2018 Business and Professional Women of the Year. Michelle is also a certified Produce Safety Alliance (Cornell University, FDA, USDA) trainer for produce safety, and has successfully obtained a NYS DEC Pesticide Certification license, which requires 150 hours of intensive training.
WANDA V. CRUZ HEALTHY COMMUNITIES COORDINATOR Wanda was the first Latina Female President for the Middletown Lions Club year 2018-2019 and also appointed as the Diabetes Awareness Chair for Lions Clubs International District 20-0 serving clubs in Sullivan, Orange, Ulster, and Dutchess counties.
BEE MOSER EAT SMART NY NUTRITIONIST Bee is a Coordinated Approach to Child Health (CATCH) Trainer. As part of the team, Bee has delivered multiple workshops, touching the lives of thousands of people in Sullivan County. Bee became CCE Sullivan Worksite Wellness Committee President in December 2018.
A QUICK NOTE!
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This isn’t the entire CCE Sullivan team of rock stars! We’re just shining the spotlight on some special achievements...
WORD ON THE STREET “We tied in the book ‘Jack and the Beanstalk.’ We planted our beans in the school gardens, the children tilled the soil and plucked weeds. Wonderful project!”
“Thank you for your work putting out the Guide Book for Farmers. A very valuable resource for current and prospective farmers. Well done!”
ANN S. HOMESTEAD SCHOOL IN GLEN SPEY
TOM M.
CORNELL GARDEN BASED LEARNING: SEEDFOLKS PROJECTS
“[Barbara Moran’s dog program] had a great balance of videos, handouts, hands-on activity stations, and, the highlight, 3 of her adorable dogs. I was amazed at her ability to hold the attention of such a large and diverse group, especially considering that it was dinnertime on a school-night. The enthusiasm was palpable, I really enjoyed the whole experience!”
TAI CHI FOR ARTHRITIS FOR FALL PREVENTION “…We both found the course to be extremely beneficial and at its conclusion we noticed improvement in our balance and we were more aware of fall prevention. My wife and I look back on the course as an enjoyable and instructive program that has been of great benefit.”
MARCIE E. CCE BOARD MEMBER
ANONYMOUS PARTICIPANT
“It is a real motivator to have the CCE staff there giving their time and talent to the endeavor! Thank you!” DARLENE M.
CCE MASTER GARDENER VOLUNTEER PLANT SALE PAGE 18
4-H ANIMAL SCIENCE
WORD ON THE STREET CORNELL UNIVERSITY ANIMAL CRACKERS
“Thank you [Kaitlyn]…for leading the genetics session. I was so amazed by how many people commented on what they learned from you. Genetics is a tough topic for young people to grasp. You made it interesting. Kudos!” DANA P. SR. EXTENSION ASSOCIATE/4-H YOUTH OUTREACH AT CORNELL UNIVERSITY
“I was so proud to reach into my child’s book bag and pull out a letter from the Chase School principal explaining that the school wellness policy would start the removal of candy from parties and celebrations. In addition, they will be phasing out unhealthy fundraisers for total compliance by the end of the year. CRMC shares this success with Cornell. My sincere thanks to all at Sullivan CCE for being an organization that consistently works in the Robert Wood Johnson collective impact model. Together, we are and we will continue move the needle on health.”
HEALTHY SCHOOLS & CLASS ROOMS
AMANDA LANGSEDER GREATER HUDSON VALLEY HEALTH SYSTEM DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY HEALTH
“Once upon a time I’d thought of the girls who rode at such high levels as idols. But now, thanks to 4-H, I was one. Thanks to 4-H, I’d overcome one of the biggest challenges of my life. Looking at the blue Danish ribbon that shimmered from the light of the sun.”
“I love that the [Catskills Kitchen] is here!” LISA LYONS MORGAN OUTDOORS
CATSKILLS KITCHEN
“Cooking with Cornell after school [in the Catskills Kitchen] is the best day of my life!” 7TH GRADER FALLSBURG CENTRAL SCHOOL
ERIN D. 4-H MEMBER
4-H PROGRAMS
“4-H provided an opportunity to be with and build community.” CHENOA PARENT OF 4-H MEMBER
“One of the skills we learned was to use humor when difficult things happen. [CCE] made the material fun and interesting. The atmosphere was welcoming and relaxed. The other important skill I will be using is doing a pros and cons chart to help with decision making.” CHRISTINE C.
LIVING HEALTHY, LIVING WELL SERIES
DONNA H.
"Participants shared problems, ideas, stories…there was a feeling of having a lot in common. The material taught was useful, helpful, and often brought to light a new slant or additional information we might not have known. " MARILYN L.
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“Very informative and definitely worthwhile! Would recommend wholeheartedly.”
PARTNER PROFILES EVERGREEN COMMUNITY GARDEN & SULLIVAN ALLIANCE FOR SUSTAINABLE DEV.
URBAN AG PARTNER
The Evergreen Community Garden was started in 2018, in partnership with the Monticello Housing Authority and Sullivan Alliance for Sustainable Development, with support from many organizations and community members. The goals of the garden are to: • Build a sense of community by creating a recreational space where community residents can work and play together. • Provide community members with the opportunity to grow fruits, flowers, and vegetables on their own garden plots. • Provide school-age children with an opportunity to participate in fun and wholesome activities on weekends and during summer vacation. • Give young adults the opportunity to learn agricultural skills that can lead to employment opportunities at local farms in the county. CCE Sullivan partnered to offer technical assistance and educational opportunities. This summer, youth visited 3 local farms, Willow Wisp Organic Farm, Apple Pond Farm, and Stone Wall Farms, to learn more about area agriculture. In 2018, residents planted a variety of produce...even a crop of berries that will be ready in 2019!
LIBERTY CENTRAL SCHOOL DISTRICT & DARA SMITH, FOOD SERVICE DIRECTOR FARM TO SCHOOL PARTNER
Liberty Central School District (LCSD), with the support of their Food Service Director Dara Smith, have taken the lead on implementing Farm to School initiatives throughout the school district. LCSD runs a Taste Test Thursday, where they offer a Farm to School menu, sourcing products like apples, pumpkins, and maple syrup from NYS farmers. Dara and her staff also provide samples of freshly prepared recipes to share with students. Prior to this initiative, CCE Sullivan learned that kitchen staff had trouble storing, preparing, and serving fresh produce in school lunch rooms. CCE staff worked with Dara to identify equipment needed to overcome those challenges. Through the Creating Healthy Schools program, CCE provided salad bar equipment to every Liberty school, which is now stocked daily with fresh produce. LCSD also participates in the Catskills Edible Garden project and offers Chef in the Classroom programs for students.
OFFICE FOR THE AGING
FARMERS' MARKET PARTNER
The Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) is an important federal program that helps get farm fresh fruits and vegetables into the hands of seniors. The program provides coupons to seniors so they can shop at farmers' markets in Sullivan County. In the past, the County received a number of coupons, however, many of these coupons were not being redeemed. A group of partners, including CCE, the Sullivan County Office for the Aging (OFA), farmers' market managers, the Sullivan County Department of Public Health Services, and the Division of Planning and Community Development, provided outreach to seniors to increase redemption rates. The OFA became very active in the program distributing educational brochures, visiting seniors, and attending outreach events across the county. The program helps to provide fresh produce to seniors and supports the local farming economy.
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PARTNER PROFILES FAMILY NUTRITION PARTNER
SULLIVAN COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH, WIC OFFICE Farmers’ markets are an important tool in overcoming the prevalence of food deserts in Sullivan County. The FMNP supplies Sullivan County residents with coupons so they have access to fresh, local produce. This wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of the Women, Infants, & Children (WIC) office staff. In partnership with CCE, the County Division of Planning and Community Development, and farmers' market managers, WIC staff distributed educational materials in Spanish and English to families throughout Sullivan County. The materials included market schedules and fact sheets on how to use the FMNP coupons. In addition, the WIC office provided educational training on nutrition at both department offices and farmers’ markets. The program is vital to Sullivan County families, and FMNP coupons contribute $1.2 million dollars directly to farmers in the region.
SUNY SULLIVAN AND NEW HOPE COMMUNITY’S HOPE FARM AG PARTNER
Hope Farm is a planned organic farm project initiated in collaboration with SUNY Sullivan’s Sustainability Team and Culinary Program. This health-focused, communitycentered project, led by New Hope Community’s Agricultural Leader Jon Jon Thomas, is being cultivated on a 3-acre plot provided by SUNY Sullivan. The farm offers hands-on educational, therapeutic, and recreational benefits that encourage people with developmental disabilities to learn about agriculture, horticulture, and healthy eating. Using permaculture principles, diversified planting, irrigation, and composting, the program teaches New Hope individuals and SUNY Sullivan students about the benefits of eating food they’ve grown themselves. The farm also provides educational opportunities to local adults and youth in Sullivan County. This year, CCE Agriculture Educator Michelle Proscia partnered with SUNY Sullivan and Hope Farm to offer a number of farm visits. On these field trips, youth from Sullivan BOCES, the Boys and Girls Club, and the Center for Workforce Development experienced farms firsthand.
SOUL FOOD CAFÉ & ENGN CENTER COMMUNITY OUTREACH PARTNERS
Soul Food Café is a weekly meal kitchen and safe space for children, families, and individuals in need, located at the United Methodist Church in Liberty, NY. Some people visit to play games, tutor, or mentor. CCE was invited by Bud and Bridgette LeConey and Martin Colavito to be a regular part of the fabric at Soul Food Café. CCE Sullivan staff table every Monday with information and free, hands-on activities to engage families. ENGN [engine] is a civic creative center in Callicoon, NY committed to a life practice that respects the environment and seeks social and economic equity. They embrace the humanity of all people, working with neighbors to create curricula, campaigns, and cultural projects that support the foundation of a shared home. Thomas Bosket and Isaac Green Diebboll, co-founders of ENGN Center in Callicoon, generously offered CCE a space for outreach at their building every Wednesday, allowing program staff to reach folks in the western end of Sullivan County.
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SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT
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SPONSOR SPOTLIGHT
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VOLUNTEERS CCE SULLIVAN BOARD Robert Kaplan, President Amy Erlwein, Vice President Dawn Parsons, Treasurer John Kiefer, Secretary Todd Brown Jenny Chamberlain Marcie Ehrman Denise Frangipane Sonja Hedlund John “JP” Lang Erin Mason Klu Padu Luisa Parker Nadia Rajsz, Legislative Rep Robert Wong
MASTER GARDENER VOLUNTEERS
PROGRAM ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Janet Barbarite
Dawn Parsons, Chair
Louise Benjamin
Marcie Ehrman
Rachel Bradsky
Freda Eisenberg
Helene Chappell
Sonja Hedlund
Mimi Fierle
John “JP” Lang
Helene Glatt
Amanda Langseder
Dennis Hewston
Erika Malmgreen
Mary Mancuso
Nancy McGraw
Darlene Midlang
Richard Sheldon
Araceli Mir-Pontier
George Stang
Sandra Nackley
Theresa Uciechowski
Richard Schulman
Diana Weiner
Nancy Schunk Susan Swann Jody Tedaldi Wendy Tushak
CAREGIVER RESOURCE CENTER VOLUNTEERS
Mary Beth Walsh
CATSKILLS KITCHEN RENTERS
Liliam Stettner
LaBarba - Q
Katie Franco
Natural Valley Kitchen Magic Maple Foods Chick - E - Ribs Ravenwood Farm
MASTER FOOD PRESERVERS
Susan Hamlin
Joanne Berthold
Marcia Fink
Aldo Troiani Karin Pantel
Jessica Gibbons
RobertaKaren’s Sohha Savory Yogurt Toto Tatu Grand Mango Caribbean Catering
best way to fin d yo “ The
Dyan Campbell
ursel
Jill Farrow
Jill Holland
Carol Smythe
Karen Mariner
Sabina Toomey
Barbara Olsen
Deborah Allen
Wendy Tushak Cheyenne Zigmund
f is to lose your
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eo
f
” ers. ot h
- Mahatma Gandhi
WE
OUR VOLUNTEERS
4-H VOLUNTEERS
Heather Jacksy
Ken Parks
Paula Barber
Holly Jacobs
Sue Peters
Robert Jones
Jenny Phelps
Robert Kautz
Nancy Pierro
Linda Kays
Robin Raykoff
Robert Kays
Karen Reilly
Elena Knight
Vicki Robinson
Susan Koenig
Carly Robinson
John Kratz
Becca Robinson
Tara Kratz
Stacie Rodrigues
Amanda Langseder
Wade Rodrigues
Joe Levy
Liz Roser
Bonnie Lewis
Jackie Rutledge
Barry Lewis
Bradley Rutledge
Syd London
Joan Schauer
Ed Lutz
Edward Schutte
Kim Lutz
Jennifer Sheldon
Mickie Mangan
Richard Sheldon
Karen Mariner
Hal Smith
Beth McAndrew
Kaitlyn Smith
Sean McAndrew
Jean Smith
Kara McElroy
Harold Smith III
Justin McElroy
Alan Sorensen
Cindy McKenna
Jane Sorensen
Lynn McWilliams
Trish Stephenson
Jennifer Morgan
Amy Sykes
Linda Muthig
Danielle Sykes
Dennis Muthig
Sallie Torres
Cindy Niven
Cheryl Towne
Jamie Noeth
Maggie Tuttle
Mary Nosek
Theresa Uciechowski
Jennifer Nystrom
Terry Viele
Charles Nystrom
Leah Mae Waldron
Barbara Olsen
Tara Ward
Colleen Osterhout
Mary Weber
Harold Barber Cathy Bender Diana Biggie Megan Blumenthal Michaela Burr Tammi Chaboty Katrina Chellis Weezie Cherubino Brandi Chevalier Jonathan Conklin Karen Coombe Penny Coombe Meghan Day Steve DeCarlo Kathy Denman Maureen Detrick Carla Dworetsky Jennifer Edwards Marcie Ehrman Erin Everitt Peg Geisel Lucy Green Loretta Guido Nat Guido Caroline Harrow Eunice Hartling Margaret Helthaler Brooke Hemmer Cindy Herbert Beverly Hesse Amy Hines Nancy Hobbs Helen Hoering Tanya Huggler
Karin Pantel
Sherrie Hust
dre others.” - Au g in lp e h r other fo self, the r u o y g in “...You have two hands — one for help
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OUR SUPPORTERS ORGANIZATIONS + BUSINESSES
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“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, what are you doing for others?” -Martin Luther King, Jr.
ORGANIZATIONS + BUSINESSES (CONT.)
OUR SUPPORTERS INDIVIDUALS
“The unselfish effort to bring cheer to others will be the beginning of a happier life for ourselves.” -Helen Keller PAGE 27