November Extension Connection Magazine 2020

Extension Connection

USPS-525-100

Sullivan County

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

Upcoming U pcoming Events Events & Programs Programs

VOLUME XCI NO. 11

NOVEMBER 2020

Issue Isssue sue Highlights Higghhligghhts

Live. Love. Serve. 4-H 5K Run/Walk (virtual)

New State Guidance for Agritourism

Tai Chi for Arthritis for Fall Prevention (virtual)

Climate Change Adaptations & Healthy Forests

Save Time, Save Money, Eat Healthy (virtual)

Energy Saving Fall/Winter Checklist

Family Caregiver Support Group (virtual)

Diabetes & Foodbourne Illness Eat Your Vitamins!

CCE 106th Annual Meeting (virtual)

DHI Report: September

Healthy Living for Your Brain & Body (virtual)

Someone I Used to Know, a Caregiver Story

AKC Home Manners Program (virtual)

CCE Spotlights: Quarton Farm, Bee Moser, and Tai Chi Graduates

CCE Board Meeting (virtual)

CCE Celebrates 106 Years!

See more events and opportunities on sullivancce.org/events.

Check out page 10 for fast facts and healthy tips of the month!

Welcome W elcome to to the the Issue!

Issue!

Table Table of of Contents Contents

Page 3 Message from the Executive Director

Page 7 Diabetes & Foodbourne Illness

Page 12 Someone I Used to Know, a Caregiver Story

Page 4 A New Service for Employers & Job Seekers

Page 8 CCE Spotlights

Page 14 Thank You, Sponsors!

Page 9 AKC Home Manners Youth Program

Page 15 DHI Reports: September

Page 10 Fast Facts, Cool Tools, & News to Use!

Page 16 CCE Celebrates 106 Years at Annual Meeting via ZOOM on Nov 18 at 6 pm.

Page 4 New State Guidelines for Agritourism this Fall Page 5 Climate Change Adaptations & Healthy Forests Page 6 Energy Saving Fall/ Winter Checklist

Page 11 Healthy Tips of the Month

Th E The Extension t i Connection C ti (USPS-525-100) (USPS 525 100) is i published bli h d monthly thl for f $25.00 $25 00 enrollment ll t by b Cornell C ll Cooperative C ti Extension E t i Sullivan S lli 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.

OFFICE HOURS

EXTENSION CONNECTION

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

Produced by: Cornell Cooperative Extension Sullivan County Edited by: Nicole Slevin & Colleen Monaghan 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 sponsorships for the Extension Connection.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Robert Kaplan.............................President Amy Erlwein........................Vice President Klu Padu......................................Secretary John Kiefer...................................Treasurer Nadia Rajsz........................Legislative Rep. Todd Brown Jenny Chamberlain Marcie Ehrman Denise Frangipane Amanda Langseder Klu Padu Luisa Parker Dara Smith George Stang Robert Wong, Deceased

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STAFF MEMBERS Colleen Monaghan..............................................................................Executive Director Thomas Bosket............................................................................SALT Program Manager SueAnn Boyd.........................................................Healthy Schools Program Coordinator Martin Colavito.................................................................Community Program Manager Kaitlyn Conklin............................................................................................4-H Educator Wanda V. Cruz..............................................Healthy Communities Program Coordinator Marylin Jones...........................................................................4-H Program Coordinator Elias Kourakos..............................................................Temporary Program Coordinator Bonnie Lewis...........................................................................Dependent Care Educator Erica Lynch..........................................................Catskills Kitchen Program Coordinator Melinda Meddaugh.......................................................Ag & Food Systems Issue Leader Brenda Miller..................................Environment & Natural Resources Program Manager Barbara Moran................................................4-H Animal Science Program Coordinator Bee Moser........................................................................SNAP-Ed New York Nutritionist Vanessa Petrossian................................................................................Ag Market Manager Abyssinia Pla El...........................................................Association Operations Coordinator Michelle Proscia..............................................................................Agriculture Educator Nicole A. Slevin Nikolados............................................Administrator & Diversity Officer Ashley Tully...............................................................................Ag Program Coordinator Tara VanHorn........................................................................................Finance Manager Brian Vantassell............................................................Temporary Program Coordinator Sean Welsh.............................................................................Energy Resource Educator John Wilcox..........................................................................................Facilities Manager Judy Arpadi, Cherene Audain, John Mastrangelo, Randy Rupert...Ag Market Coordinators

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November 2020

Dear Extension family,

grateful for, it would be disingenuous to ignore the grief so many of us have shared as a community this past year.

soul so unexpectedly. A college freshman, avid dairyman, all things livestock extraordinaire, community servant, and Head, Heart, Hands, Health. He helped me learn what 4-H is all about, and I am, along with our CCE staff, board, and program committee, so thankful to his mom, dad, and little brother Dillan, for sharing him with our Extension family.

My November Extension Connection magazine notes are usually reporting updates, reflections, and holiday

4-H Pledge I pledge my head to clearer thinking,

Colleen Monaghann Executive Director, cm638@cornell.edu

My heart to greater loyalty, My hands to larger service, and my health to better living, for my club, my community, my country, and my world.

Moo Juicers in that each and every one of us had the utmost respect for you. Each and every one of our kids looked up to you. You were a hard worker, always lent a hand, if anyone ever asked you for help, you jumped right in, you never questioned it. You always

To send condolences, flowers, or to plant a tree in memory of Derrick, visit www.stewartmurphyfh.com.

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A NEW SERVICE FOR EMPLOYERS & JOB SEEKERS Written by Ashley Tully, Ag Program Coordinator With a large uptick in land acquisition inquires, as well as technical assistance for aspiring farmers, we want to highlight a few resources for the agricultural community to tap into this fall.

The Hudson Valley Farmlink Network, host of the New York Farmland Finder, a website connecting land-seekers and landowners, has created a new

resource for Farm Employers to post direct job listings. The website is already known regionally as a place to connect for farming needs, and is another outlet for jobseekers who are looking for direct employment within farm labor.

the day-to-day operations of a farm.

Gaining hands on farm experience is an important step for farmers before accessing farmland. Through working on a farm, you can enhance your knowledge of the agricultural industry and gain valuable insight on

CCESC also hosts a countywide jobs page at http://sullivancce. org/agriculture/ag-jobs that we update monthly. Please contact Aet92@cornell.edu if you would like to post a job opportunity.

You can add a job by going to the website, https://nyfarmlandfinder. org/jobs, opportunities available to job seekers.

NEW STATE GUIDANCE FOR AGRITOURISM THIS FALL Submitted by Ashley Tully, Ag Program Coordinator

York traditionally comes together

Petting zoos are not permitted. individuals/parties as handrails, cleaned and sanitized between rides

from apples to grapes to pumpkins.

This year, while things may not look exactly the same on your favorite farm, I am happy to say we can still

for its food and beverage producers.

All guidance can be found at https:// agriculture.ny.gov/coronavirus.

the many family-friendly activities that go with it. With this new guidance, we hope New Yorkers will be able to enjoy some of the best of New York agriculture in a safe and socially

Corn Mazes - permitted consistent with Low Risk Outdoor Arts and Entertainment guidance and the following conditions:

Sources: Stup, Richard, Cornell University.

Agworkforce.cals.cornell.edu. https:// agworkforce.cals.cornell.edu/2020/09/11/ farmers-we-appreciate-you/.

Ball, Richard A., New York State Agriculture

Pick-Your-Own Fruit/Vegetables Operations - permitted consistent with Low Risk Outdoor Arts and Entertainment guidance and the following conditions:

individuals/parties

Hayrides - permitted consistent with Public Transportation guidance and the following conditions: Page 4

The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets has issued a full slate of guidelines for the agricultural industry, including

individuals/parties.

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November 2020

agriculture.ny.gov/. https://agriculture.ny.gov/system/files/ documents/2020/09/agritourismfaq_0.pdf.

CLIMATE CHANGE ADAPTATIONS & HEALTHY FORESTS Submitted by Brenda Miller, Environment & Natural Resources Program Manager Our climate is changing more rapidly than ever recorded and in ways humans have never experienced before. Climate change has resulted in significant changes to weather, precipitation patterns and increasing temperatures. In the Northeast US, seasonal precipitation patterns have shifted with higher amounts falling in heavy events that are occurring more often. The episodic nature of these events have increased the occurrences of localized flooding that are contrasted by periods of drought.

Increasing temperatures have led to shorter more mild winters and longer growing seasons. Higher water temperatures are causing sea level rise and warming weather is altering the water cycle. Climate is one of the main factors in shaping forest ecosystems and the forests in our region have and will continue to be affected by climate change during this century.

Forest ecosystems will respond to the impacts of climate change in a variety of ways. Increased risk of drought and more variable soil moisture may cause stress and decline in moisture sensitive species. Forest pests and diseases as well as invasive species have been found to benefit and become more damaging, because of the disturbances to the environment caused by climate change.

Climate change will also result in changes to suitable habitat which may have implications on tree species survival and ranges. Northern ranging species such as black spruce, red spruce, northern white cedar, paper birch, quaking aspen and white spruce are likely to decline with only slight warming. A reduction in

suitable habitat is expected to affect many of the more common species such as big tooth aspen, black cherry, sugar maple, and yellow birch.

Declines in these species which play important roles in the forest may have significant impacts on the ecosystem. Alternatively, scarlet oak, black walnut, shagbark hickory, pin oak, and southern red oak found mainly in warmer more southern regions may benefit from expanding suitable habitat. Northward range expansion may also occur in very rare species, although this may be inhibited by other factors like habitat fragmentation, increased impervious cover and limited dispersal.

The fluctuations and shifts in environment caused by climate change will also impact tree establishment, growth and species composition. Germination and seedling survival are highly sensitive to environmental conditions and changes in precipitation, soil moisture and temperature. Similarly, tree growth can be impacted by climate change. Growth is expected to slow in species such as balsam fir, quaking aspen, red spruce, and yellow birch adapted to colder northern areas with relatively slight warming. Projections under more dramatic climate change scenarios indicate declines in northern red oak, black cherry, and sugar maple likely related to seedling/ sapling sensitivity.

Forests are always responding to the environment and climate change may drive the changes already occurring.

The unprecedented speed at which the climate is changing will impact the normally slow pace of broad shifts in forest composition. The most noticeable shifts will probably occur along the borders of different forest types where species are at their northern or southern ranges. Climate

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November 2020

change may also alter the composition of forest communities with different species mixes developing over more extended periods of time. Increasing risk from extreme weather events, pests and invasive species has the potential to dramatically disrupt the health of forest ecosystems.

Understanding the basic principles of forest health and resilience can help woodland managers protect forests in the face of climate change.

Several new resources are available to help inform and guide forest management decisions. The USDA and U.S. Forest Service Climate Change Resource Center, https://www.fs.usda. gov/ccrc/, contains an expansive compilation of tools and educational materials that provide a science based foundation for incorporating climate change considerations into forest management. Implementing strategic practices that address the impacts of climate change with forestry professionals is the best way to mitigate the effects of these rapidly changing conditions.

Management Issue 6 (August 2020): 10-11.

Accessed September 11, 2020. http:// ccecolumbiagreene.org/resources/ in-these-woods-timber-managementaugust-2020?utm_source=Foresty Letter Series&utm_campaign=dbdf3a7745EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2019_07_25_07_44_ COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_ term=0_0843ed41c9dbdf3a7745-366811205.

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ENERGY SAVING FALL/WINTER CHECKLIST Submitted by Sean Welsh, Energy Resource Educator

Consider replacing screens on windows with storm windows for an additional barrier from the cold outside winter air.

As the fall settles in, there are tasks that can be done around the home to prepare for cooler weather. Keep in mind that most New Yorker renters or homeowners will qualify for a free home energy assessment right now. If you are interested, contact Energy Educator Sean Welsh, sw288@cornell.edu or call 845 292 6180 ext. 127

Window plastic can be applied to help air seal around drafty windows.

Doors

If you are in the market for new windows, Energy Star certified windows are a more energy efficient option.

Air Conditioners Window units should be removed and windows should be locked and secured during the colder months.

years for natural gas.

Making sure your duct work is sealed and insulated helps with the efficiency of the system.

Heating and Cooling Equipment (HVAC) Look at your HVAC air filters monthly.

This is even more important during the winter and summer when these systems are in heavier use. Check with the manufacturing information about how often filters should be cleaned or replaced. Dirty filters will make the system work harder and less efficient.

Door sweeps can be installed to seal gaps beneath doors. Different kinds of door sweeps can be found on the market for a more permanent installation, or a peal and seal product can be removed.

If it is a permanent wall unit, a tight fitting cover can be placed over it to insulate it from the cold air. These covers can be found at most home improvement or hardware stores.

If you are a renter look into rope caulk, which is designed to not chip or peel paint and can provide draft reductions.

Attic and floor vents should not be blocked by furniture, rugs or other obstacles.

Systems should be serviced by professionals annually for a preseason tune up. For systems older than 10 years, new more energy efficient heating and cooling options are available. Systems such as air source heat pumps can give cooling and heating even in colder climates, reducing energy costs.

Caulk and weather-stripping can be installed for a low cost way to lessen heat loss and save energy.

Boilers

Thermostats

Boilers should be serviced annually by a qualified contractor so it is as efficient and working as well as it is able.

Smart thermostats can be programmed to help regulate the temperature of your home, even when outside the home.

When in the market for a new boiler consider an ENERGY STAR certified boiler.

Energy Star certified smart thermostats can be found on utility websites for a reduced cost.

Fireplaces

Utility Online Marketplaces

If not in use, close your fireplace damper to help warm air stay in the home.

Check with your electric utility for rebates on some of the above mentioned equipment. Utilities offer online marketplaces, which give discounts on energy saving products and rebates on appliances and heating and cooling systems. To discuss options for major purchasing decisions, you can check with a community energy advisor to talk about programs, current rebates and incentives to help drive down energy costs and improve the efficiency of a home.

Drapes/Shades On colder days, take advantage of the shades and drapes open while the sun is shining!

Insulation Weather-stripping can be installed on doors and caulking can be done around windows to help seal and prevent air leaks, helping to provide more comfort and energy savings.

Home energy audits are free for most New York homeowners and renters and can assist those who meet income guidelines with costs associated with some of the recommended upgrades.

Call your local Community Energy Advisor at 845 292-6180 ext. 127 to find out if you qualify for a program or to line up a home energy assessment.

Windows

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Attic/Floor Vents

Fireplace balloons or chimney plugs can be found at home improvement stores to provide a tighter seal, rather than just the damper alone.

A fireplace can be fitted with a low emission wood pellet stove. These stoves are more efficient than a fireplace alone and burn less fuel, saving home owners money. There are incentive options based on income for homeowners in New York to purchase these stoves.

Furnaces Having your furnace serviced annually for oil burning furnaces and every 2

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Accessed Sept 8, 2020. http://www.energy. gov/energy/energysaver/energ-saver.

DIABETES & FOOD BOURNE ILLNESS meat, poultry, seafood, or eggs.

Submitted by SueAnn Boyd, Healthy Schools Coordinator When we talk about people who are at higher risk of foodborne illness, the groups that often come to mind are small children, older people, people who are seriously ill, and pregnant women.

Another group is people who are immunocompromised- and people with diabetes are squarely in this group. People with diabetes, and their family members, are often unaware that diabetes puts you at increased risk of foodborne infection. Diabetes is often assumed to affect only blood glucose levels, but the damage diabetes can wreak can affect nerves, eyes, circulation and kidneys. Blood vessels may be damaged, and this can lead to heart attacks or strokes.

The reasons for their susceptibility to food borne illness may be because of the effect of high blood sugar levels on the nervous system. This nerve damage can result in gastroparesis, a condition in which normal stomach digestion activity slows or stops. This results in the infected food staying in the stomach and intestines for longer, giving harmful bacteria extra time to multiply. Production of gastric acid may also be reduced. The acid works to break down food in the stomach and functions as a barrier to harmful bacteria. In addition to their already immune-compromised state, foodborne illness symptoms, such as excessive vomiting, can lead to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) which, if not treated quickly, could lead to blurred vision, slurred speech, confusion, and loss of consciousness.

Poor blood sugar control appears to be an important risk factor in the increased risk of infection and of serious infection for people with diabetes.

Luckily, there is lots a person with

running water.

Use separate cutting boards and plates for produce, meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs.

Cook to the Right Temperature Food is safely cooked when the internal temperature is high enough to kill germs that can make you sick.

diabetes and their family members can do to reduce their risk of food borne illness. Managing diabetes and maintaining blood glucose concentrations in the goal range may reduce the risk of foodborne infection.

Following the four simple steps from www.FoodSafety.gov- clean, separate, cook and chill, can help keep your family safe from food poisoning at home.

Clean: Wash Hands, Utensils, and Surfaces Often Illness-causing germs can survive in many places around your kitchen, including your food, hands, utensils, and cutting boards.

Wash your hands often, especially:

seafood, or their juices, or uncooked eggs

food is safe. When you think your food is done, place the food thermometer in the thickest part of the food, making sure not to touch bone, fat, or gristle. F or above). Read package directions for cooking and follow them exactly to make sure food is thoroughly cooked.

sit for a few minutes enables colder areas to absorb heat from hotter areas.

Chill: Refrigerate and Freeze Food Properly Refrigerate perishable foods within 2 hours. multiply quickest between 40°F and 140°F. counter. The safest way to thaw or marinate meat, poultry and seafood is in the refrigerator. throw food out before harmful bacteria grow.

a child who has used the toilet or animal waste

Know That People with Diabetes Are at a Higher Risk for Foodborne Illness (aka Food

Wash surfaces and utensils after each use: and countertops with hot, soapy water, especially after they have held raw

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2, 2020. Accessed September 11, 2020. https://extension.unh.edu/blog/did-youknow-people-diabetes-are-higher-riskfoodborne-illness-aka-food-poisoning.

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CCE Sullivan Spotlights

Program Spotlight

Agriculture Spotlight QUARTON FARM Kelly Quarton is founder and owner of Quarton Farms, a diversified vegetable farm located in Hurleyville, NY. Founded in September 2017, Kelly leased land she found on the Farmlink website and started growing in the spring of 2018. She is currently managing 10 acres in production.

Quarton Farms sells their produce at the Green Markets in NYC, and Mondays and Saturdays. They also sell wholesale to restaurants, but due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Kelly pivoted to add an additional market went from 60% to 90% of its total sales. Kelly noted the benefit of participating in a larger market system, which allows flexibility to find additional outlets for vendors.

Kelly thinks the Northeast may have the best climate to farm in the country right now, noting copious amounts of rain, and without extreme weather events. We are happy she has chosen Sullivan County, and see much success in her future growth.

Staff Spotlight BEE MOSER Bee has been a welcoming addition to our Nutrition & Healthy Families team.

Working with Bee is a great pleasure.

She is not only the nutritionist for SNAP-ED New York Hudson Valley formerly known as Eat Smart New York, but is also our current staff wellness coordinator. Bee has encouraged us to be mindful of what we eat and how to stay physically active in and out of the office. Her knowledge in the field of nutrition and fitness is impeccable. If there is a question on the topic of healthy eating or ways to incorporate activity in your life, Bee is the go-to! She has worked tirelessly to help our community be a healthier place. She always has a smile and a kind word to say each and every day. Bee enjoys running, gardening, and spending lots of quality time with her son in the great outdoors. Thanks Bee for working with us!

TAI CHI GRADS A summer virtual class of tai chi practitioners graduated in midSeptember after 8 twice-weekly style tai chi movements. The 15 new graduates used these gentle and graceful exercises to improve their balance, strengthen their muscles, and improve their coordination. The group was led by Bonnie Lewis, RN/ Dependent Care Coordinator of the Caregiver Resource Center program using ZOOM distance learning.

Although everyone wished to enjoy learning tai chi in-person, the use of ZOOM proved quite enjoyable, peaceful, and fun for all as they remained safely home.

Summer 2020 tai chi grads are: Ellen Frey, Donna Harness and Petra Muccia (all with a perfect attendance) along with Judith Brennan, Gaila Weisberg, Deanna Rosenshein, Penny Coombe, Suzanne Klewan, Barbara Langseder, Frances Peters, Lauren Miller, Linda Pasternack, Suzanne White, Diane Moss, and Dawn Ryder who all participated in warm-ups and learned the basic six movements.

Congratulations to all for taking a pro-active stance in their health!

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AKC Home Manners Program Wednesdays*

Dec. 2-Jan. 13 5

Zoom

Youth will learn how to train their puppies and dogs at home!

Kaitlyn Conklin, American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Program trainer and evaluator will teach youth to: Train dogs in sit, down, stay, come. __ House train puppies Build a dog/owner relationship Walk dogs on a leash outside Train dogs on food manners Set up an exercise routine for the dog Train on an appropriate response to doorbells/ knocking *Participants encouraged to attend all 6 classes. No class scheduled on Wednesday, Dec. 23rd.

Registration required in advance. sullivancce.org sullivan@cornell.edu 845-292-6180 When an evaluator signs a dog s CGC test, the evaluator is essentially attesting that the dog was observed to perform all of the skills at a specic test. Although we can try our very best to be responsible, there are no guarantees for the future behavior of animals or humans.

Cornell Cooperative Extension Sullivan County provides equal program and employment opportunities. Contact the o ce to request special accommodations.

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November Focus: Fast Facts, Cool Tools, & News too Use! U

Foods like salm on, avocado , and who le grains sca n help r educe inflammatio n.

manifests the deed; The deed develops into habit; And habit hardens into character; So watch the thought and its ways with care, And let them spring forth from love.

Born out of compassion for all beings.

As the shadow follows the body, as we think, --The Dhammapada Page 10

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November Focus: Healthy Tips of the Month!

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SOMEONE I USED TO KNOW Submitted by Bonnie Lewis, RN Dependent Care Educator Caregiver Resource Center note ~ Matthew Rzodkiewicz, author of this compassionate story and my cousin, permitted the CRC to share it as we recognize National Family Caregivers Disease Awareness Month, and that caregivers need increased support to improve their overall health and well-being. As we honor all those who provide loving, dedicated care, please remember that there is still no cure for million Americans.

the man said, referencing the New York Mets, whom we were watching on television. Smile and nod, I thought to myself, smile and nod. Knowing the inaccuracy of this statement, my heart sank as I realized the man I used to know was slipping away.

The man I used to know was loving, caring, and humorous. As an avid Mets fan, he would always talk about the team. The man I used to know came to my own baseball games to support me. He and his wife would travel two hours to watch a team of hyper 10-year-olds run around a field.

Ralph was his name; the man I used to know. He would play catch with me then take me out for pizza and ice cream. I stayed at his house every summer, where the man I used to know would show me which blueberries were ripe to pick and to know allowed me to put in the last piece of the jigsaw puzzle, even though he did all the work on it.

Now it is I who lets him put in the last piece of the puzzle.

The 85-year-old man I now know thinks he played professional Page 12

baseball. The man I now know asks for his deceased siblings. He no longer plays catch or takes me out to

berries anymore. The man I now know The man I used to know shows up from time to time. He speaks of his time in the Navy. He tells me he loves me. He thanks his wife for taking such good care of him. Then, within seconds, he disappears.

My house is where the man I now know resides with his wife. The man I now know is dependent on the emotional and mental strength of his wife in order to function.

The man I know is my grandfather.

He and my grandmother uprooted their lives and left their beloved family home behind. With support from family members and the

I used to know. The name suited her; she was very gracious and amiable. The woman I used to know loved spending time with family, on holidays, or merely for a casual dinner.

The woman I used to know would come over to babysit. When bedtime rolled around, she would rub my back until I fell asleep. The woman I used to know watched Mets games on television merely because she knew they were my favorite team. The woman I used to know comforted me and told me I was welcomed at her house any time. come around much anymore.

The woman I now know is a recent widow of Eugene. The woman I now know wonders where her husband

replies. my grandma and grandpa moved into my house this past winter. Since then, I have witnessed the turmoil both my grandparents endure when attempting to cope with the horrid

I used to know would ask my mom,

The woman I now know lives in a Memory Care facility. The woman I now know is no longer interested in family gatherings, has no desire to watch baseball, meet for lunch, or make meals.

Whenever I saw the woman I used to know, I was greeted with a smile

breaking disease. Following my the woman I used to know would

greets me with the same open arms, but with a worrisome look, clueless as to who is hugging her. She then looks

would soon be afflicted with the same tragic disease.

same eyes that used to watch me play

The woman I used to know was a sweet, compassionate, warmhearted person. She, too, came to my baseball games to support me. The woman I used to know made my favorite meals whenever I visited. The woman I used to know would meet us for lunch and insist on paying.

Her name was Grace; the woman

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those vacant, hazel eyes, I am certain the woman I used to know is no longer there.

The woman I know is my nana. Her husband, my pop-pop, recently passed away. She undeniably feels lonely, abandoned, and scared; witnessing how unhappy and lost she

is without my pop-pop depresses our family to no end. After attempts at hiring live-in caregivers, my family reluctantly put my nana in a facility intended for those with memory loss.

Through these experiences with my loved ones, I have realized how precious and fragile memories are.

When I reflect upon memories of my grandpa, nana, and my pop-pop,

moments is imperative because we never truly know when a loved one will be mentally or physically taken hold dear every moment I now have

Source: Author Matthew Rzodkiewicz, B.A. Sports Communication and Public Relations is a Broadcast Associate at MLB Network.

Mr. Rzodkiewicz is an Emmy winner for Team Production for Outstanding Sports Studio Daily Show.

become somebody I used to know.

cherish them more. Treasuring these

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DHI Report:

September

FOR POST OFFICE:

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