July Extension Connection Magazine 2026

Extension Connection

USPS-525-100

Sullivan County

YOUR LINK TO LOCAL, RESEARCH-BASED SOLUTIONS TO BETTER YOUR LIFE

VOLUME XCVII

NO. 6

JUNE 2026

CCE Sullivan Staff Katie Gasior (left) and Steve Bonds-Liptay (right) at Sullivan Fresh Market in Monticello. More on page 4.

Upcoming U pcoming Events Events & Programs Programs

Issue Isssue sue Highlights Higghhligghhts

Friday Fitness Series Summer 2026 7/3, 7/10, 7/24, 7/31, 8/7, 8/28, 9/4, 9/11

The Perks of the Farmers Markets in Sullivan County

Tai Chi Summer 2026 7/7, 7/14, 7/21, 7/28

Opportunity to Welcome Working Cats for Natural Pest Control

Caregiver Café Support Group 7/13, 8/10, 9/14, 10/19, 11/9, 12/14

Start to Finish: Growing a Cut Flower Garden

D.I.Y. Energy Savings Session 7/23

The U Turn: Looking Back to Move Forward

Fire and Emergency Management Plans for Farms 7/8, 7/14

SNAP’s New Reality: Expanded Work Requirements, Cost Shifts to States, and Benefit Adjustment Changes

2026 Sullivan County Youth Fair 8/14, 8/15, 8/16 See more events and opportunities on sullivancce.org/events.

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!

Meet Megan Reilly, An Aspiring Veterinarian Raised by the Sullivan County 4-H Youth Development Program July is National Plastic Free Month! Find out what to avoid on page 13!

Welcome W elcome to to the the Issue!

Issue!

Table Table of of Contents Contents

Page 3 Know Your Numbers Screening Event Page 4 The Perks of the Farmers Markets in Sullivan County Page 6 Opportunity to Welcome Working Cats for Natural Pest Control Page 7 Start to Finish: Growing a Cut Flower Garden Page 9 The U Turn: Looking

Back to Move Forward Page 11 CCE Spotlights!

Page 12 Fast Facts & DHI Report Page 14 SNAP’s New Reality: Expanded Work Requirements, Cost Shifts to States, and Benefit Adjustment Changes Page 16 CHSC Recognizes Daycare Providers Page 18 Visit the Sullivan

Notify CCE Sullivan if you have a change of address: 845-292-6180 sullivan@cornell.edu

EXTENSION CONNECTION

OFFICE HOURS Hours: Mon - Fri | 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Phone: 845-292-6180 E-mail: sullivan@cornell.edu Website: www.sullivancce.org Facebook.com/ccesullivanagfood Instagram.com/ccesullivan YouTube: bitly.com/ccesullivan

O&W Rail Trail Page 20 Caregiver Resource Center Upcoming Events Page 21 Meet Megan Reilly, An Aspiring Veterinarian Raised by the Sullivan County 4-H Youth Development Program Page 22 Sharing Strengthening Families Program Success

Produced by: Cornell Cooperative Extension Sullivan County Edited by: Aaron Denman, Katie Gasior & Nicole Slevin Nikolados Cornell Cooperative Extension Sullivan County provides equal program and employment opportunities.

NOTICE: Official endorsement of advertisers and their products is not intended by the acceptance of their sponsorships for the Extension Connection.

STAFF MEMBERS

Colleen Monaghan..............................................................................Executive Director Tracy Broyles...............................................................................SALT Program Manager Alan Carroll...................................................................Food Systems Program Manager Luciana Carvo.................................................................STNY/4-H Program Coordinator Lynn Colavito..............................................Community Cupboard Program Coordinator Martin Colavito...........................................................Prevention Programs Issue Leader Dawn Parsons.......................President Wanda V. Cruz...............................................Healthy Communities Program Coordinator Alex Alorro...................Vice President Aaron Denman.........................................................Association Operations Coordinator Robert Kaplan.......................Secretary Jessica Doyle.............................................................................4-H Program Coordinator John Garigliano.....................Treasurer Drew Fuller........................................................................ Prevention Program Educator Brian McPhillips...........Legislative Rep. Katie Gasior........................................................................Horticulture Subject Educator Patricia Claiborne.............Cornell Rep. Jenna Gangel...................................................................Shop Taste NY Market Manager Stacey Johnson Joy Leon.................................................................Nutrition & Physical Activity Educator John (JP) Lang Isabel Lutz.......................................................................................................................Custodian Erika Malmgreen Kim McDonnell............................................................................................TNY Market Manager Mark McLewin Nancy McGraw.................................Team Leader/Educator, Caregiver Resource Center Jennifer Mitchell Melinda Meddaugh.......................................................Ag & Food Systems Issue Leader Meaghan Mullally-Gorr Laura Quigley Tess Isabel Molina Bayly.............................FORx Youth Prevention Program Coordinator Gary Silver Barbara Moran................................................4-H Youth Development Program Manager Gary Silverman Luis Ocasio........................................................................Prevention Program Coordinator Diana Weiner Patricia Ocasio...................................................................Prevention Program Coordinator Shanice Owens..............................................Community Cupboard Program Coordinator Abyssinia Pla El...................................................................................Finance Coordinator Monica Ponce-Agredano ...............................................................Ag. Program Assistant Michelle Proscia...........................................................Ag. Production Program Manager Heather Brown Nicole A. Slevin Nikolados.............................................Senior Administrator, Operations Roberta Chambers Nu El Tara VanHorn.........................................................................................Finance Manager Courtney Hanback Malinda Ware.................................................Statewide Strategic Engagement Specialist Carmela Hugel John Wilcox..........................................................................................Facilities Manager Cathi Paci Veronica Yangis.........................................................................Taste NY Operations Coordinator Carol Roig Hailee Crum, Julieth Melendez, Billy Wells.............................................Ag Market Coordinators

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

PROGRAM COMMITTEE

Stephen Stuart Eugene Thalmann Deborah Worden

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THE PERKS OF THE FARMERS MARKETS IN SULLIVAN COUNTY program that doubles SNAP another important benefit: freshness. Locally grown benefits—up to $50—on food is often harvested eligible purchases. just days—or even hours— The Sullivan Fresh Mobile before it is sold, meaning Farmers market season Markets also participate in the food options last is upon us, and Sullivan longer and retain more County is fortunate to have Double Up Food Bucks, a similar matching program flavor. Shoppers can find so many to choose from. that provides up to $50 a wide variety of seasonal With the warm second in additional benefits, products, from fresh half of spring, markets specifically for fruits and vegetables and fruits to spring to life across the vegetables. meats, eggs, baked goods, local region and beyond. honey, and handmade Sullivan County’s economy In addition, the Farmers items. By purchasing has long been rooted Market Nutrition Program directly from local farmers in both agriculture and (FMNP) provides coupons and producers, residents tourism, and the wide for seniors and WIC not only stretch their food array of farmers markets participants. These dollars but also invest in is a testament to the coupons, distributed in the health and resilience collaboration between booklets, can be used of Sullivan County’s these two industries. at farmers markets agricultural community. throughout the county and Markets throughout the are a valuable resource Lastly, these markets are county serve different for accessing fresh, locally community hubs. When you purposes, depending grown foods. shop at a farmers’ market, on the communities they you can meet friendly support. One function Another initiative, FreshRx, vendors, enjoy live music, they all share, however, is is a prescription-produce make connections, and helping to promote food learn more about food, security in an increasingly program run through Garnet Health.

Available nutrition, and local events. unpredictable world. Today, to qualifying individuals, Many markets host familyalongside the markets, FreshRx can be earned by friendly activities, cooking several programs are demonstrations, and available to help residents participating in diabetes prevention classes or opportunities to engage struggling with rising attending cooking and with local organizations, food costs and encourage nutrition demonstrations, making each visit both them to shop locally while such as those offered at the educational and enjoyable. supporting area farmers.

Sullivan Fresh Monticello Farmers Market through Farmers markets Many markets in Sullivan Cornell Cooperative strengthen the connection County accept EBT/SNAP Extension. Programs like between producers and benefits, including the these not only improve consumers, helping people Sullivan Fresh Monticello access to healthy food but better understand where Farmers Market and also help local community their food comes from Mobile Markets, the Liberty members build long-term and how it is grown. This Farmers Market, the Rock knowledge about nutrition season, take the time to Hill Farmers Market, and and wellness. explore a local market, the Callicoon Farmers support your neighbors, Market. Markets that accept Beyond affordability and experience the many EBT/SNAP can also offer and access, shopping at FreshConnect checks, a benefits firsthand. farmers markets offers New York State matching Written by Alan Carroll, Food Systems Program Manager

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Stop when you see the Mobile Market Van to shop for farm fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy and eggs!

EVERY WEDNESDAY Village of Woodridge Municipal Lot Green Ave. & Dairyland Rd. • Woodridge, NY

July 1st – August 26th 10:00 AM –11:00 AM

+

Shop for locally grown fruits, vegetables, and more while enjoying special events, cooking demos, and family-friendly fun!

EVERY THURSDAY June 25th – September 24th 10:00 AM –1:00 PM

10 Jefferson St., Monticello, NY

Fallsburg Town Hall 19 Railroad Plaza • South Fallsburg, NY

Behind the Ted Stroebele Recreation Center

July 1st – October 28th 12:00 PM –1:30 PM

+

Loch Sheldrake Public Parking Lot Corner of Hasbrouck Rd. & Route 52 Loch Sheldrake, NY

Milk

July 1st – October 28th 3:00 PM –4:30 PM Sullivan Fresh is an initiative launched and managed by

Pay Your Way! Cash • Credit/Debit • SNAP/EBT • Double Up Food Bucks Fresh Connect Checks • Fresh Rx Coupons • Sullivan Fresh Bucks Senior & Farmers Market Nutrition Coupons (FMNP)

845-292-6180 sullivanfresh@cornell.edu www.sullivancce.org

Get Social with Us!

For more information visit SullivanFreshMarkets.org Extension Connection June 2026

@Sullivan Fresh Markets

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OPPORTUNITY TO WELCOME WORKING CATS FOR NATURAL PEST CONTROL Dear Friends and Community Partners, My wife Judy and I are writing on behalf of the Neighbors Loving Cats Project, a new community initiative in the Town of Fallsburg dedicated to humane, responsible care of neighborhood cats.

Over the past two years, a group of approximately twenty cats has been living together in our subdivision. With the full support of the Town of Fallsburg Town Board, our Animal Control Officer, Care Rescue of Sullivan County, and the nonprofit All Paws Matter, we have been actively trapping, neutering, spaying, and vaccinating these cats through the TARA mobile clinic in Liberty and Monticello.

We are now at the stage where many of these cats—healthy, social with one another, and accustomed to outdoor living—are ready for placement in safe rural environments where they can live productive, stable lives. We are reaching out to farms, barn owners, homesteads, and rural property stewards in Sullivan, Ulster, Dutchess, and Orange Page 6

Counties who may benefit from the presence of working cats for natural pest control.

These cats have lived peacefully together for several years. Before our trapping efforts began, two or three litters were born, and many of the young adults remain bonded with their siblings or parents. We prefer to place them in pairs or groups of three, keeping family units intact to reduce stress and support successful acclimation.

If you have a barn, outbuilding, farm, homestead, or rural property that could welcome a pair or small group of working cats, we would be grateful to speak with you. Your participation helps our community sustain a humane, effective approach to managing neighborhood cat populations while giving these animals a Extension Connection

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meaningful, safe life.

We also welcome referrals to other farms, agricultural associations, equestrian centers, or rural property owners who may be interested. If you can provide one or two large bags of dry cat food per month that would be helpful.

Thank you for considering this partnership. Together, we can create a model of compassionate stewardship that benefits our community, our environment, and the animals who share it with us.

Warm regards, Lawrence & Judy Schafman Neighbors Loving Cats Project Loch Sheldrake, NY 12759 (845) 807-8401 Neighbors12759@gmail. com

START TO FINISH: GROWING A CUT FLOWER GARDEN Written and submitted by Katie Gasior, Horticulture Subject Educator

If you love having vases full of fresh flowers around the house, but not the price tag cut flower gardening is for you! A little planning now will have your home full of unique floral arrangements all summer long.

First off, what is a cut flower? A cut flower is simply any flower or flower bud that is cut from the plant and used decoratively in fresh or dried vase displays, wreaths and garlands.

In a sunny spot: Most cut flower plants prefer the sun Close to water: Make sure your site has an easily accessible water source Somewhere you’ll see them often: Flowers mature quickly, so plant somewhere convenient to be able to cut them at the right time.

The right soil: It’s always recommended you get a soil test to understand the soil that’s at your site before you plant and any amendments you might need to make. Raised beds are great if you don’t have high-quality soil or you like the convenience.

Ground beds are better for large amounts of flowers.

Or, you can incorporate cut

flowers into your existing landscape to save space.

Some flowers need stakes to help them grow straight so consider that when planning a site.

What flowers should you grow?

you need an appropriate place to start seeds indoors. Transplants are more expensive, but they save time and space.

Whatever you chose, try to stagger what you plant by bloom times so you always have flowers available.

That depends – do you want to grow from seed or transplants? Seeds are cheaper and more varieties are available, but

Annuals: Many are easy to start from seed ahead of time or to direct seed into a sunny spot in the garden. Examples: Zinnia,

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Strawflower, Celosia, Perennial Black-Eyed Gomphrena, Amaranthus, Susan.

Cosmos, Black-eyed Susan, What type of maintenance Sunflowers. is needed in a cut flower Bulbs: Many require garden? staking for support.

Weeding – you didn’t think Examples: Spring you’d get out of this one, Flowering: Tulips, did you? To prevent weeds, Daffodils, Lily of the Valley; Summer Flowering: use mulch or landscape fabric. Watering needs Dahlias, Gladiolus, Lilies. will vary depending on Perennials: what you’re growing.

Consider soaker hoses Spring Flowering: or drip irrigation. Some Hellebores, Bleeding flower plants may need Heart, Peonies, Lady’s pinching, disbudding and Mantle; pruning.

Summer Flowering: Iris, Liatris, Coneflowers, Eryngium, Poppies, Astilbe, Clematis, Yarrow, Garden Phlox;

What’s the best way to harvest cut flowers?

Late Summer/Fall Flowering: Autumn Joy and This depends on the Similar type Sedum, Mums, flower. Some are best to

cut as buds or before the blooms fully develop and some are best cut when they’re fully open. It’s best to cut flowers in the late afternoon or evening. Cut the stems longer than you will need and place in cool water for one to two hours to let them take up enough water.

Cut Flower & Care Handling Always use a clean container. Use a container that doesn’t have straight sides to make it easier and the proportion should be 1:1 for container to flower height.

Remove any foliage that will be in the water.

Use a floral preservative: Sugar, Acidifier, Bactericide. At-home preservatives can be made, but they need to include those components.

Place in a cool location away from sunlight.

Change water frequently – and enjoy fresh cut beautiful blooms all season long!

Source:

Gucker, Douglas, and Candace Anderson.“Start to Finish: Growing a Cut Flower Garden | Know How, Know More | Illinois Extension | UIUC.” Extension. illinois.edu, 24 Apr. 2020, extension.illinois.edu/blogs/ know-how-know-more/2020-04-24-start-finishgrowing-cut-flower-garden.Accessed 10 July 2024.

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THE U-TURN: LOOKING BACK TO MOVE FORWARD Written by Malinda Ware, Statewide Strategic Engagement Specialist

Life rarely travels in a straight line.

It unfolds through unexpected twists, sudden detours, difficult crossroads, and moments that change everything.

Along the way, we gather experiences, lessons, successes, disappointments, and wisdom that shape who we become. Yet in our constant pursuit of what’s next, we rarely pause to consider a powerful question: What if we could take a U-turn and look back over the road we’ve traveled?

Not to dwell on mistakes.

Not to become trapped in regret. But to gain a clearer perspective on how we can create a better future for ourselves and those around us.

Looking Back Isn’t Always Looking Behind Many people view looking back as a sign of weakness or indecision. We hear phrases like “don’t live in the past” and “keep moving forward.” While there is wisdom in those words, there is also value in reflection.

Every mile of life leaves clues.

The relationships that flourished and those that faded. The opportunities we embraced and those we ignored. The moments we spoke up and the moments we remained silent. The

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risks that paid off and the fears that held us back.

Looking back allows us to see patterns that were invisible while we were living them.

Sometimes the greatest lesson is not found in where we succeeded, but in understanding why we struggled.

What Would We Change?

If life offered us a chance to make a U-turn and review our journey, many of us would identify areas where we could have chosen differently.

Perhaps we would have spent more time with loved ones and less time chasing things that ultimately didn’t matter.

Maybe we would have

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forgiven sooner, listened more carefully, worried less, or taken chances that fear convinced us to avoid.

We might have invested more energy into building meaningful relationships rather than proving ourselves to others.

We may have realized that some of life’s greatest treasures were never achievements at all they were people, moments, and opportunities to serve.

The lessons we gain from reflection are not meant to remain personal. They become tools we can use to improve the lives of those around us.

Imagine a world where more people paused long enough to learn from their journey.

Where leaders reflected The Gift of Changing Our before making decisions.

Perspective Where parents shared The true power of a U-turn wisdom instead of is not changing the past; it repeating mistakes. is changing how we see it.

Where communities Life’s challenges often chose understanding over reveal their purpose only judgment. after time has passed.

The setback that felt Where individuals devastating may have measured success not only redirected us toward a by what they accumulated, better path. The failure that but by what they embarrassed us may have contributed. taught us resilience. The disappointment we wanted Small changes in to avoid may have become perspective can create profound changes in the catalyst for growth. behavior.

A shift in perspective And better behavior can transform pain into wisdom and mistakes into creates stronger relationships, healthier guidance. communities, and more When we change how we meaningful lives. view our experiences, we The U-Turn We All Need change how we approach our future.

Making Life Better for Ourselves and Others Page 10

The most important U-turn in life may not involve changing direction at all.

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It may simply require changing our view.

Seeing our experiences through the lens of growth instead of regret. Seeing people through the lens of compassion instead of criticism. Seeing opportunities where we once saw obstacles.

Life will continue to surprise us with new ideas, unexpected turns, and moments that challenge what we believe. The question is whether we are willing to learn from the road behind us as we travel the road ahead.

Because sometimes the greatest step forward begins with a thoughtful look back.

And sometimes the U-turn that changes everything happens not on the road, but in the mind.

CCE Sullivan Spotlights Staff Spotlight

is currently completing her bachelor’s degree in Child Studies, with an WELCOME anticipated graduation JESSICA DOYLE, date of December 2026.

4-H PROGRAM Jessica is a former TriCOORDINATOR Valley FFA member and Jessica Doyle joins Cornell has spent many years serving her community Cooperative Extension through leadership roles Sullivan County as the with the Grahamsville 4-H Youth Development Little World’s Fair and the Program Coordinator. A Roscoe-Rockland Fire lifelong Sullivan County Department. Her passion resident, Jessica brings for agriculture, education, a strong background and volunteerism has in youth development, helped shape her leadership, and commitment to providing community engagement. meaningful opportunities She holds an Associate of for young people.

Science degree in Early Childhood Education and

Jessica is excited to work with Sullivan County youth, families, and volunteers to strengthen and grow 4-H programs while helping young people develop. leadership, life skills, and connections that will serve them throughout their lives.

DHI Report:

May 2026 SAMPLE TYPE

HerdCode

HERDOWNER

21470096

BRANDON PETERS DAIRY DHI-AP

21470021

GLASSEL, ROBERT

DHI-AP

NO. COWS

MILK

FAT

PROTEIN

HO

90

20526

828

657

HO

45

13644

519

410

BREED

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July Focus: Fast Facts, Cool Tools, & News to Use

stic Free la P l a n o ti a N is July t what to Month! Find ou y errands! ail avoid in your d

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My challenge choices GETTING STARTED

WHAT TO AVOID

HOW TO AVOID IT

YES

YOUR IMPACT OCEAN

Fill your bin with plastics for ‘recycling’

Avoid as much plastic packaging as you can

Pre-packed fruit and veg

Choose loose products (skip the little plastic bag or put in a reusable bag)

Lightweight plastic bags

Remember your reusable shopping bags or use a cardboard box

Pre-packed meat or fish

Shop at the deli counter or butcher or fishmonger for paper wrapped cuts or BYO reusable container

Takeaway drink straws

Refuse plastic straws (or opt for a paper straw if they have them). BYO reusable straw

Takeaway coffee cups

Bring your reusable cup or sit and enjoy a real cup

Takeaway utensils and containers

Support vendors offering compostable alternatives (bamboo or card), BYO reusables or sit and enjoy ‘dine-in’

Bottled water

Fill a reusable bottle from the tap

Bottled soft drinks

Reduce the amount (helps your health), or make your own with a soda maker/ carbonator or choose glass bottles (and recycle)

Bin liners (or ‘reusing’ plastic shopping bags)

Have a sealed container for ‘wet’ scraps and compost or freeze until bin day. Line the kitchen bin with paper

Plastic food wrap for leftovers and sandwiches

Use a reusable lunch box to store food, store food in containers or use beeswax wraps

Littering: cigarette butts, balloons

Dispose of cigarette butts in the bin (they are plastic and wash into the ocean environment) Avoid releasing balloons (what goes up, must come down)

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LANDFILL

GLOBAL WARMING

I’LL DO THIS

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SNAP’S NEW REALITY: EXPANDED WORK REQUIREMENTS, COST SHIFTS TO STATES, AND BENEFIT ADJUSTMENT CHANGES Written by Zixia Huang, Wendong Zhang, and Alan Hinds, Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management, Cornell University

Overview The One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB), signed into law in July 2025, makes the largest changes to SNAP in over a decade. The Congressional Budget Office estimates federal SNAP spending will decline by $186 billion over the next ten years.

Three provisions account for more than 90% of the estimated declines in spending: expanded work requirements, a new federal-to-state cost shift, and restored costneutrality for benefit adjustments.

waived populations to strict time-limited benefit rules requiring 80 hours of monthly work or training.

Adults in their late 50s and early 60s often face health challenges, caregiving demands, and age discrimination in hiring, which makes compliance harder in practice.

2. Federal Costs Shift to States States previously bore

1. Expanded Work Requirements The OBBB raises the age ceiling for ablebodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) from 55 to 65 and narrows the dependentchild exemption from under 18 to under 14.

These changes expose older workers, parents of teenagers, and formerly Figure 1. Share (a) and count (b) of SNAP households newly subject to work requirements Source: SNAP QC Database FY 2023; USDA SNAP Data Tables Oct. 2023.

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50% of administrative costs and 0% of benefit costs. Under the OBBB, states’ administrative cost share rises to 75%, and most states must now share between 5–15% of benefit (allotment) costs based on their SNAP payment error rate from three years prior. States with error rates at or above 10%—often those serving more complex, diverse populations—face the steepest penalties.

California faces an estimated $2.5 billion in annual SNAP obligations; New York, $1.9 billion; Florida, $1.3 billion; Texas, $1 billion. Budget pressures may lead states to cut SNAP outreach or tighten eligibility and will undermine SNAP’s countercyclical role during recessions.

their benefits reduced.

Advocates, extension educators, and local officials have an important role in connecting affected families to remaining resources, monitoring gaps in food access, and making the case to state and federal policymakers when the safety net falls short.

3. Return to Cost-Neutral “Dyson Extension Briefs” is a series of news articles Benefit Adjustments for Cornell Cooperative The 2021 Thrifty Food Extension publications Plan (TFP) reevaluation, mandated by the 2018 Farm Bill, raised maximum SNAP benefits by 21% by abandoning the historical cost-neutrality requirement. The OBBB restores that requirement and postpones the next TFP reevaluation until October 2027, limiting future benefit adequacy adjustments to general CPI-U inflation, which often lags food price inflation.

and for local newsletters and other local media. It reviews elements critical to the food and agricultural industry. Past articles are available at: https://dyson. cornell.edu/outreach/ dyson-extension-briefs/.

Sources:

Huang, Z., Zhang,W., & Hinds,A. (2026). SNAP’s New Reality: Expanded Work Requirements, Cost Shifts to States, and Benefit Adjustment Changes.

Applied Economics Teaching Resources. https://doi. org/10.71162/aeee.155443

Policy Implications SNAP remains one of the most critical safety net programs, but these reforms represent a meaningful reduction in its reach and support.

Community organizations such as food banks and pantries would anticipate a notable influx of new users as households lose SNAP eligibility or see Figure 2. State SNAP contribution rate (a) and estimated annual SNAP obligation (b) Source: USDA-FNS SNAP Payment Error Rates FY 2024; Plata-Nino and Rosso (2025).

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July 2026 CHSC recognizes daycare providers Written by Nancy McGraw, Team Leader & Caregiver Resource Center Educator

In May, CCE Sullivan celebrated 10 years of Creating Healthy Schools and Communities initiatives. However, a few providers were unable to attend. As a follow up in June, joint visits were made to the daycare homes in coordination with the Sullivan County Childcare Council to show appreciation by presenting them with a certiƱcate and a giant keepsake check representing the recent $1,000 funding award they received for their work during the past year of the CHSC grant.

Above: Devon Conklin, owner of Devon’s Daycare in Liberty, with her $1,000 CHSC sustainability award which enabled her to continue to implement policies to improve physical activity and nutrition for children in her care.

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By receiving $1,000 each for their sustainability plans, daycare providers have been able to purchase items to improve physical activity and nutrition in their daycare homes and centers. Toys purchased were all centered on helping young children below the age of Ʊve (5) years in their care to develop gross motor skills, which are critical to healthy development and learning.

Sustainability Awards in Early Childhood Education settings

Above: A $1,000 sustainability award and certiƱcate of achievement for working to improve physical activity and nutrition for children in her daycare is presented to Rachel Rausch, owner of Rachel’s Angels Daycare in Liberty by Nancy McGraw, CCE Team Leader/Educator.

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Above: A $1,000 sustainability award and certiƱcate of achievement for working to improve physical activity and nutrition for children in her daycare is presented to Gianni Morales, owner of Babies n Tots Daycare in Liberty.

Below: Gianni enjoys using her new blender to oƯer fruit smoothies to the children in her daycare. She involves them by letting them pick out the fruit and prepare the ingredients.

Above: Children at Babies n Tots Daycare enjoying the fruit smoothies. CHSC funding provided a new ninja blender to enable easier preparation of fruits, vegetables and other recipes for nutritional oƯerings.

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Visit the Sullivan O & W Rail Trail Written by Wanda V. Cruz, Creating Healthy Schools and Communities - Healthy Communities Coordinator. CHSC funding provided to municipalities for trail enhancements, signage and more. Read more below to see many of the examples.

Pictured directly below is the parking lot near the bridge in Woodridge.

Pictures speak louder than words. I suggest you all take some time to visit all the Sullivan O & W Rail Trails in Sullivan County. You may be surprised at the wonderful locations you will encounter.

Each access point is unique with its own charm and connections to so many diơerent areas. If you think about it, you can see that it’s also an alternative form of transportation to business districts, schools, residential areas, and much more.

If you’re in Fallsburg, depending on which access point you choose to take, you may encounter parks and playgrounds, theater, museums, convenience stores, shops, restaurants, cafés and kosher foods, and much more.

The icing on the cake is Ƥnding a picnic area or historic tunnel on the trail which is the access point shown below. It will also take you to residential areas and to the Neversink bridge which leads to the Village of Woodridge.

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If pickleball is your thing, you should try the Mountaindale O & W Rail Trail.

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The access point below will soon be a destination point with a children’s park.

And if you continue the trail, you will reach Westwood Drive with a variety of access points that will take you to Hurleyville.

Shown next are access points accessible through Vista Drive in South Fallsburg.

Benches for resting, bike repair stations, bike racks, receptacles, directional signage, and message boards; all you need to rest from biking or walking before you start again.

The above access point was once an area where many came to dispose of their old and unwanted tires. Most had no idea that it was part of the O & W Rail Trail. Now it’s a visible access point that connects to the Hurleyville business district or to South Fallsburg.

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The Caregiver Resource Center provides community workshops and brief presentations on various topics to interested senior groups throughout the county, including topics from the Alzheimer’s Association.

Upcoming Events Wellness Initiative for Senior Education (WISE) -A six-week WISE series is under way at the Town of Highland senior center from June 22nd – July 27th. The class is full with 13 seniors registered.

Know Your Numbers – a free health screening (see Ʋyer on page 3) in collaboration with Garnet Health will be held July 21st from 10-12pm at the Extension Education Center.

The Caregiver Resource Center, along with the Alzheimer’s Association and the Sullivan County OƯice for the Aging, is promoting regular screening for cholesterol (LDL & HDL), glucose, triglyceride levels and monitoring your blood pressure. Registration is suggested but not required at https://tinyurl.com/5n6mtpy4 According to the Alzheimer’s Association, a growing body of research has demonstrated that lifestyle interventions can protect cognitive function. The Association's U.S. POINTER study, their single largest research investment, found that a lifestyle program targeting physical activity, nutrition, cognitive engagement, and health monitoring improved thinking and memory in older adults at risk of cognitive decline, with even greater beneƱt from a more structured intervention. (Alzheimer’s Association, www.alz.org, 2026).

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Above: Seniors at the Loch Sheldrake Senior Center listened to an overview of a workshop presentation on Building Brain-Healthy Habits held on June 3.

CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUPS Caregiver Café: Changing to the 2nd Monday each month starting in July. From 10-11am at CCE Sullivan’s Board Room. Dates: July 13, Aug. 10, Sept. 14.

Virtual support group: (3rd Wednesday each month) July 15th, Aug 19th from 6-7pm Parkinson’s Support Group held the 1st Wednesday of each month from 4-5:30 pm at CCE Sullivan. Note: July’s meeting is cancelled, please call the Caregiver Resource Center at 845292-6180 x 122 or email sullivancrc@cornell.edu for more information on upcoming meeting dates.

INFORMATION & ASSISTANCE If you are looking for information about community resources to help you in your caregiving role for a loved one, or want to learn about available services and programs for individuals age 60 and older, please call the Caregiver Resource Center at 845-292-6180 ext.

122.

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June 2026

MEET MEGAN REILLY, AN ASPIRING VETERINARIAN RAISED BY THE SULLIVAN COUNTY 4-H YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM Submitted by Barbara Moran, 4-H Youth Devleopment Program Manager

Megan Reilly has been a 4-H member for more than a decade. Her involvement has included club membership, public presentations, community service, annual fair still exhibits, and the Artisan Fair. Through 4-H opportunities and the mentorship of Barb Moran in animal science activities, Megan’s love for animals developed into a passion for animal science. These experiences provided hands-on learning and helped shape her educational goals.

At Barb Moran’s suggestion, Megan enrolled in the Texas A&M University Veterinary Science Certificate Program. This nationally recognized self-paced course includes 200 hours of curriculum lessons, 225 hours of hands-on apprenticeship, and competency in 100 different skills. The program is designed to provide a platform for students pursuing degrees and careers in veterinary science by expanding understanding of animal care, handling, and medical procedures.

Megan completed the course over a period of two years, and this spring completed the required clinical hours under the supervision of a local veterinarian. She has now successfully passed the exam under the guidance of Barb Moran and received certification as a Veterinary Assistant (VA).

A 2026 homeschooled high-school graduate, Megan will attend SUNY Delhi to obtain a veterinary science degree. Veterinary science is a challenging field, but Megan believes her experiences through 4-H, mentorship, and training have prepared her for the opportunities ahead.

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SHARING STRENGTHENING FAMILIES PROGRAM SUCCESS Written and submitted by Patricia Ocasio, Prevention Program Coordinator, & Aaron Denman, Association Operations Coordinator

Strengthening g g Families Program g (SFP) ( ) lives up p to its name: families connect of adolescence and the struggles of being by y understanding g the mysteries y gg g evidence-based an adult. Developed p by y Dr. Karol L. Kumpfer, p the original g came to fruition in 1982 on a National Institute of SFP 14-session program p g for substance-abusing with children ages Drug g Abuse grant g g parents p g 6 to 11 6-11). was to discover what skills parents years (SFP y ( ) The purpose p p of the grant g p needed to keep p their kids from using g alcohol and drugs. g Since then, SFP has in the USA and Europe 30 been replicated p by y multiple p agencies g p for the past p years with outstanding results. SFP is now taught in all 50 U.S. states and 36 y other countries.

The Strengthening g g Families Program g has also found its way y into our curricula and the Monticello community. y This spring, p g a group g p of families from Monticello successfully y completed p the series at the Ethelbert B. Crawford Public Library y under the tutelage g of Prevention and CCE staff including Martin Colavito ((Prevention Programs g Issue Leader), ) Patricia Ocasio ((Prevention Program g Coordinator), ) Andrew Fuller (Prevention ( Program g Educator), ) and Tess Isabel Molina Bayly y y (FORx ( Youth Program g Coordinator). ) All families received certificates to commend the effort each member, youth or adult, put into their learning process.

“It was a g great turnout,” says y Patricia Ocasio. “Families were engaged g g and the youth were amazing, y g all actively y participating. p The families are all very happy and interested in future programs.” and the CCE For more information on the Strengthening g g Families Program g staff who bring it to the local communities, you can visit our website at sullivancce.org/prevention. sullivancce.org/prevention g p .

CCE Prevention staff Andrew Fuller (last person on right), Patricia Ocasio (second to last on right), and Tess Isabel Molina Bayly (third to last on right) celebrating with the students who successfully completed the Strengthening Families Program.

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June 2026

Extension Connection June 2026

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