Extension Connection
Sullivan County
Check out the newest addition to the Extension Education Center on page 10!
Upcoming Events & Programs
Upcoming Events & Programs ssue
111th Annual Meeting
Value-Added Food Products: Navigating Regulations, Safety, and Market Readiness
Bone Builders Fall 2025
D.I.Y. Energy Savings Session
Discipline is NOT a Dirty Word - Virtual Series
Caregiver Cafe’ July - Dec. 2025
Farmer Mixer at Finca Seremos
Farm Business Training
See more events and opportunities on sullivancce.org/events.
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!
Farmer Mixer at Finca Seremos
August 2025 Ag. Report
The Aftershock Premiere
Plant a Tree This Fall in NY
CHSC to Focus on Providing Technical Assistance to Schools on Sustainability for Wellness Initiatives in 2025-2026
Reflecting on a Summer with 4-H
Seasons Change: Finding Joy in the Transition from Summer to Fall
October is National Fire Prevention Month! Check out some fast facts and tips on p. 14!
Welcome to the Issue!
Page 3 Farmer Mixer at Finca Seremos
Page 4 August 2025 Ag. Report
Page 6 Plant a Tree This Fall in NY
Page 8 Seasons Change: Finding Joy in the Transition from Summer to Fall
Page 9 The Aftershock
Premiere
Page 10 CCE Spotlights
Page 11 U.S. POINTER
Results Show that Healthy Behaviors Have A Powerful Impact on Brain Health
Page 12 Fast Facts!
Page 14 CHSC to Focus on Providing Technical Assistance to Schools on
Sustainability for Wellness Initiatives in 2025-2026
Page 16 Economic Benefits: Activity-Friendly Routes to Everyday Destinations
Page 18 All About Pumpkins
Page 20 Caregiver Resource Center Events
Page 21 Reflecting on a Summer with 4-H
NotifyCCESullivan if you have
Notify CCE Sullivan if you have a change of address: 845-292-6180
sullivan@cornell.edu
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
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Dawn Parsons.......................President
Alex Alorro...................Vice President
Robert Kaplan.......................Secretary
John Garigliano.....................Treasurer
Brian McPhillips...........Legislative Rep.
Patricia Claiborne.............Cornell Rep.
Amanda Langseder
Erika Malmgreen
Steve Marton
Mark McLewin
Laura Quigley
Gary Silver
Gary Silverman
Nicole Slevin Nikolados
Diana Weiner
PROGRAM COMMITTEE
Heather Brown
Roberta Chambers
Nu El
Courtney Hanback
Carmela Hugel
Cathi Paci
Carol Roig
Stephen Stuart
Eugene Thalmann
Deborah Worden
EXTENSION CONNECTION
Produced by: Cornell Cooperative Extension Sullivan County Edited by: Aaron Denman & Colleen Monaghan 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
Monica Ponce-Agredano ...............................................................Ag. Program Assistant
Tracy Broyles...............................................................................SALT Program Manager
Alan Carroll...................................................................Food Systems Program Manager
Luciana Carvo...........................................................................Ag. Program Coordinator
Lynn Colavito..............................................Community Cupboard Program Coordinator
Martin Colavito...........................................................Prevention Programs Issue Leader
Haley Collins...................Agriculture Farmland Protection & Planning Program Manager
Wanda V. Cruz...............................................Healthy Communities Program Coordinator
Aaron Denman.........................................................Association Operations Coordinator
Eugene Doyle...................................................................................................Custodian
Drew Fuller............................................................................. CPIP Program Coordinator
Katie Gasior........................................................................Horticulture Subject Educator
Jenna Gangel..........................................................................Shop Taste NY Coordinator
Joy Leon.................................................................Nutrition & Physical Activity Educator
Kim McDonnell..................................................................................Taste NY Assistant Manager
Nancy McGraw.......................................................Educator, Caregiver Resource Center
Melinda Meddaugh.......................................................Ag & Food Systems Issue Leader
Barbara Moran................................................4-H Youth Development Program Manager
Patricia Ocasio...................................................................Prevention Program Coordinator
Shanice Owens..............................................Community Cupboard Program Coordinator
Abyssinia Pla El...................................................................................Finance Coordinator
Michelle Proscia..............................................Agriculture Production Program Manager
Ann-Marie Sidtis......................................................................FOR Program Coordinator
Tara VanHorn.........................................................................................Finance Manager
Malinda Ware................................................................Statewide Engagement Specialist
John Wilcox..........................................................................................Facilities Manager
Veronica Yangis.........................................................................Taste NY Operations Coordinator
Kayla Evans, Ashley Masopust................................................................Ag Market Coordinators
CallicoonCenter,NY12724
AUGUST 2025 AG REPORT
PAST WORKSHOPS
Gardening 101 series Part 3 -August 6th: A hands on workshop at the CCE teaching garden where participants learned about vining plants, pest control, disease identification, pollinator benefits, pruning and harvesting.
Community Preservation Acts -August 6th: Attendees learned about Community Preservation Acts, what they are, how they are implemented across the Hudson Valley, and what steps municipalities and counties can take to adopt them.
Techniques for Water Management at Unbroken Acres -August 18th: Participants learned how to apply strategies like berms and swales to slow, spread and sink water on their property and toured real examples of berms, swales, and catchment pond features already in place on the farm.
Invasive Species Walking Tour at Hurleyville Rail Trail -August 27th: Participants walked along the rail trail learning how to identify invasive species, what threat they pose, and management methods for eradication.
Farmer Mixer at Angry Orchard -September 8th: Attendees had a private tour of Angry Orchard where they learned about their research projects with Cornell University, toured the apple orchard and the facilities, and learned about the history of the orchard.
UPCOMING WORKSHOPS
Soil Health & Management at Bobolink Farm -September 23rd from 5-7pm
Agritourism Farm Tour with Mother Earth Farmstead -September 29th from 5-7pm: Get an inside look at Mother Earth Farmstead's operations, history, and approach to sustainable agriculture.
Turning Harvests into Profits: A Value Added Workshop for Farm & Food Businesses with Cornell Food Venture Center -October 1st from 3-5pm: Hear from the Cornell Food Venture Center, and learn about regulatory requirements food safety standards, product testing, labeling and business planning.
Farmer Mixer at Finca Seremos Farm -October 6th from 5-7pm
Pasture Management & Grazing Webinar -October 30th from 6-8pm: Attendees will earn pesticide recertification credits and will provide farmers and land managers with practical strategies to improve pasture productivity. This session will also cover pesticide safety, focusing on proper handling, storage, and recordkeeping to ensure compliance.
TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE:
Technical Assistance/Inquiries: 142 Soil/Hay Tests: 17 Farm Visits: 2
Technical Assistance was provided on land access, ag districts, farmland preservation, Catskills Kitchen (insurance, business structures, permitting & licensing), soil testing, accessing markets, crop rotation/production, cover cropping, soil tests, funding, livestock breeding, greenhouse and high tunnel production, invasive species, pest Identification, native gardens, orchard care and composting. 36 total Hours of Technical Assistance.
FARMLAND PRESERVATION:
Number of Municipal 239 Review’s: 1
Ag Assessment, Ag Zoning & Ag District
Technical Assistance: 22
2025 Ag District 30 Day Window: A final report has been created for NYS Department of Ag and Markets and will be submitted to NYS in Sept.
County-Wide Farmland Preservation Project (and Report from Orange County Land Trust)
OCLT met with the Town of Delaware Board to discuss farmland preservation strategies and inclusion in HV Community Preservation Act
Conducted a farm visit to explain the Farmland Protection Implementation Grant (FPIG) process to a potential applicants.
We received six (6) pre-applications from farmers interested in the NYS Purchase of Development Rights program. Applications will be reviewed by the County Ag Board on 9/18. Scheduled three additional municipal and farmer seminars for November and December. Ongoing outreach to identify sustainable funding sources for matching and soft costs needed to support farmland preservation.
FARM BUSINESS TRAINING:
CCE is hosting our annual Farm Business Training Series in October and November. Participants will work with consultants, business owners, and Extension Educators to develop and write a Business Plan, and attend 4 workshops. At the end of the series and upon completion of a Business Plan, participants are eligible for a $500 stipend.
Farm Business Management Training SeriesOctober 20th & 27th November 3rd & 10th
Session 1 October 20th– Planning Your Farm & Production Practices (In-Person)
Session 2 October 27th– Business Plan Development (Webinar)
Session 3 November 3rd – Financial Statements & Record Keeping (Webinar)
Session 4 November 10th – Marketing & Social Media (Webinar)
PLANT A TREE THIS FALL IN NY
Written and submitted by Katie Gasior, Horticulture Subject Educator
Fall is considered the most favorable time to plant trees in New York State, particularly in the Catskill region. Cooler temperatures, steady rainfall, and warm soils create ideal conditions for root development. Unlike spring plantings, which often face heat stress or dry spells, fall-planted trees can establish root systems before dormancy and resume growth vigorously in spring.
Benefits of Fall Planting:
In the Catskills (Typically USDA Zones 5–6), soil typically remains workable until November. This extended window allows roots to grow even as the canopy goes dormant. By focusing energy underground, young trees are better prepared to withstand winter and thrive the following growing season. Selecting native species supports local ecosystems and wildlife, while ensuring your tree is adapted to regional climate and soils. Consider the following:
Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum) – A keystone Catskills species, valued for shade, brilliant fall foliage, and sap for syrup.
Prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soils.
Northern Red Oak (Quercus rubra) – A fast-growing, long-lived hardwood that produces acorns, a critical wildlife food source.
Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis) – A smaller ornamental tree with striking pink spring blossoms and tolerance for partial shade.
Eastern White Pine (Pinus strobus) – A tall, softneedled evergreen that provides year-round habitat for birds.
Serviceberry (Amelanchier canadensis) – A multiseason ornamental with spring flowers, edible berries, and vibrant fall color.
Pawpaw (Asimina triloba)
– Produces tropical-like fruit with custard-like pulp; prefers moist, well-drained soil and some protection from wind.
Black Walnut (Juglans nigra) – A valuable hardwood tree with edible nuts; best for larger properties due to its size and allelopathic effects on some plants.
Highbush Blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum) – A native shrub offering nutritious berries for people and wildlife; thrives in acidic, well-drained soil.
Planting and Early Care Guidelines
When selecting your site for your new planting, assess light, soil texture, and available space. Plant
sun-loving species (e.g., oak, maple) in open sites; understory trees like serviceberry adapt well to dappled shade.
Bare-Root
Planting Option
Fall is an excellent time to plant bare-root trees, particularly smaller native species. Bare-root trees are often less expensive, easier to transport, and establish quickly because their roots are in direct contact with native soil. Plant them immediately after purchase, keeping roots moist until in the ground. Bare root plants are less likely to harbor pests and disease as well, as these can persist in the soil.
Planting
Depth
Dig a hole two to three times the width of the root ball (or spread roots for bare-root stock). Place the tree so the root flare—the point where the trunk widens at the base—sits just above soil level.
Mulching
Apply a 2–3 inch mulch layer to conserve soil moisture and moderate temperature. Avoid piling mulch directly against the trunk, which can promote rot.
Watering
Newly planted trees require consistent moisture until the ground freezes. Provide roughly one inch of water per week, adjusting for rainfall. Deep watering
encourages roots to grow downward.
Protection from Wildlife
Deer and small mammals can damage bark and buds. Use tree guards, fencing, or repellents to safeguard young trees through winter.
Planting a native tree in the fall is both an ecological and aesthetic investment. By selecting regionally adapted species and following best practices— such as proper mulching, careful watering, and considering bare-root stock—you increase the chances of long-term success. With patience and proper care, today’s sapling will grow into a lasting part of the Catskills landscape.
DHI Report: August 2025
SEASONS CHANGE: FINDING JOY IN THE TRANSITION FROM SUMMER TO FALL
Edited by Suzan Sussman, CCEOC Parenting Educator
Submitted by Aaron Denman, Association Operations Coordinator
For many, summer represents a sense of freedom—longer days, relaxed schedules, sunshine, fresh air, and a touch of magic. But as we transition into the fast-paced energy of fall, it’s natural to feel a sense of loss or mounting stress. The return of packed calendars, shifting routines, shorter days, and cooler temperatures can feel overwhelming. However, this seasonal shift doesn’t have to be loathsome. Fall can be welcomed like an old friend; familiar, comforting, and full of possibility. With the right mindset, we can embrace autumn with wonder and joy. While summer brings a carefree spirit, it also presents unique challenges, especially for parents. The end of school often means scrambling for camps or childcare that balance enrichment, affordability, and stability. In contrast, fall offers a return to structure and routine, which can provide a welcome sense of consistency for both children and families. Think of it as an opportunity to exhale and to settle into a rhythm that brings clarity and calm. Autumn is also a beautiful time to enjoy the great outdoors. Despite the shorter days and crisper air, nature puts on a spectacular show.
Soak up the remaining sunshine, take in the changing leaves, and make time for fresh-air moment; whether it’s a peaceful morning coffee outside, a leaf-peeping walk, or cheering at a youth sports game. Before the hibernation of winter sets in, there’s still time to savor nature’s gifts. Fall invites us to slow down and embrace coziness. It’s the perfect time to build new routines that include warm seasonal beverages, crockpot meals, hearty soups, and fresh-baked treats. As outdoor time winds down, create warmth indoors with puzzles, board games, or quiet reading corners. With a little intention, your home can become a haven of comfort and connection.
Consider making a fall bucket list filled with seasonal delights: apple picking, pumpkin carving, festive Halloween events, Thanksgiving recipes, or even a gratitude jar to fill as the weeks go by. These small traditions can help extend the joy of summer into the colder months.
Most of all, fall is a time for reflection. As the year winds down, it offers a chance to pause—consider what you’re
grateful for, what you’ve accomplished, and what dreams still await. While the shift in seasons can stir feelings of melancholy, it’s also a reminder that life, like nature, moves in beautiful cycles. Each season brings its own gifts, and with each transition, we’re invited to grow, reset, and cherish the present.
https://www.delish. com/cooking/ recipe-ideas/g3042/ fall-slow-cooker-recipes/ https://www.simplyrecipes. com/easy-fall-souprecipes-8692300 https://www.countryliving. com/diy-crafts/g2542/ fall-crafts-for-kids/
https://kindlingwild.com/20easy-and-spontaneous-fallnature-walk-ideas/ https://www. halfbakedharvest.com/thesweetest-autumn-treats-tobake-up-this-fall/
Sources: Sussman, Suzan.“Seasons Change: Finding Joy in the Transition from Summer to Fall.” Our community table, August 14, 2025. blogs.cornell.edu/building-community/https:// uncategorized/seasons-change-finding-joyin-the-transition-from-summer-to-fall/.
THE AFTERSHOCK PREMIERE
Written
and submitted by
Patricia Ocasio, Prevention Program Coordinator
This was at Arts Theatre, Aftershock. What an grateful the their hard and CCE Public Health Essentials was to work many outside participated in from the community.
This was at Hurleyville Arts Theatre, premiering Aftershock. What an amazing event and eye-opening experience while viewing. We’re grateful to the Prevention team and outside organizations for their hard work and efforts in completing the CCE Public Health Essentials project. This was a wonderful opportunity to work with many individuals in and outside of the organization in which many families
The Strengthening family program provided the participants with tools to use for strong family communication, support, love, and limits and so much more. Those families that completed the program received tote bags full of resources in the community SALT resource card, flyer for the fitness series and upcoming events as well as the Sullivan 180 resource booklet. All received a bag of food and produce and receive Monthly food deliveries from our CCE cupboard.
We are happy to say that we linked many families to services and connections in the community. The Public Health Essential project was a great success. Once again, thank you to all who were part of this project’s support system, including Romina Jaramillo from the Maternal Infant Services Network and Cheyanna Frost from the Public Workforce Development at Cornell University.
The program the with tools to use for and so much tote bags resources in SALT resource card, for the fitness series and events as from in the community. The Public Health Essential project was a success. Once from the Public Workforce at Cornell University.
CCE Sullivan Spotlights
Facilities Spotlight
INTRODUCING THE NEW DOVE AT THE EXTENSION EDUCATION CENTER
Submitted by Aaron Denman, Association Operations Coordinator
On Tuesday, August 26th at 2:30pm, the staff of Cornell Cooperative Extension Sullivan County revealed the latest addition to their Extension Center and the next stop on the Bethel Dove trail; their very own dove! Designed and painted by local artist Kim Simons, the Extension Education Center dove is a homage to its housing of organizations whose longstanding missions have always been to help the rural and non-rural communities of Sullivan County.
We are very thankful to everyone who had a part in making this project a reality, including dove artist Kim Simons, the staff of the Sullivan County Visitors Association, and CCE staff John Wilcox and Aaron Denman. We are also thankful to everyone who attended the reveal. Be sure to stop by the Extension Education Center to see the new dove standing proudly across from the Cornell University Extension Center sign next to the road!
CHSC TO FOCUS ON PROVIDING TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE TO SCHOOLS ON SUSTAINABILITY FOR WELLNESS INITIATIVES IN 20252026
Written
and submitted by
Nancy McGraw, Team Leader & Caregiver Resource Center Educator
Sustaining school wellness programs after grant funding runs out is a critical challenge. Here are tips and strategies that CHSC staff will be working with Sullivan 180 on to assist school district wellness committees maintain the momentum they have created in prior years:
• Document and celebrate success: Highlight the positive impact of wellness initiatives on student health, academic performance, and overall school climate. This data is powerful for building support and securing future resources.
• Emphasize lasting changes: Showcase how the grant-funded activities have created sustainable changes, such as improved policies, strengthened partnerships, or the adoption of new, effective practices.
• Integrate wellness into existing structures: Make wellness a natural part of the school’s culture and daily routines rather than a standalone
program. For example, weave physical activity breaks into lessons or incorporate nutrition education into science classes.
Cultivate relationships and garner support
• Communicate regularly with stakeholders: Keep administrators, teachers, parents, students, and community members informed about the progress and positive impact of wellness efforts.
• Involve stakeholders in decision-making: Seek their input and ideas to ensure programs remain relevant and address their needs.
• Build a base of champions: Identify and cultivate individuals within the school and community who are passionate about wellness and can advocate for its continuation.
• Demonstrate the impact of wellness initiatives: Present evidence and stories that showcase the positive effects of programs to garner continued support from the school board and community
We are excited about continuing our work this coming school year with our partners at Sullivan 180, schools, day care providers, and communities to create a sustainable culture of wellness for all. Anyone with questions can reach out to us at 845-292-6180.
Although schools were enjoying a beautiful summer off, the CHSC program was busy exploring ideas for sustainability going into year five of our Creating Healthy Schools & Communities grant. Many resources were provided to schools in April, May and June in coordination with our subcontracted partner, Sullivan 180, so that schools are offering enhanced physical activity and nutrition options and are beginning to think about ways to incorporate sustainable activities into their school wellness policies this
i n S ullivan 1 80 , so coming year.
C H SC to S ullivan Elementary S chool
Shown to the left is a picture of one of the sensory art sticker kits that was provided by CHSC to Sullivan West Elementary School for kindergarten and first grade students. These hallway stickers p rogram going April,
encourage children to have fun, increase physical activity, an d learn math all at the same time. “Math & Movement” sensory stickers will also be placed in the elementary school hallway. An example is pictured below.
Photo: Flickr/Paul Sableman
ACTIVITY-FRIENDLY ROUTES TO EVERYDAY DESTINATIONS
Activity-friendly routes projects create more jobs per dollar spent
Bicycle infrastructure only
Pedestrian infrastructure only
multi-use trails
Road infrastructure w/ bike & ped facilities
On-street bicycle & pedestrian facilities
Road infrastructure w/ pedestrian facilities
Road infrastructure w/o bike or ped facilities
ALL ABOUT PUMPKINS
Published by Cambium Learning Group Company
Submitted by Joy Leon, Nutrition & Physical Activity Educator
From Thanksgiving pie to pumpkin spice lattes to Halloween jack-o’lanterns, the pumpkin is an American classic. Few (if any) foods boast deeper American roots than these beloved round orange gourds, a type of squash native to North America and domesticated in Central America almost 10,000 years ago.
Pumpkin pie recipes, probably originating in the early 16th century after pumpkins were brought back to France and England from the New World, started appearing in cookbooks in the mid-17th century. For early American
colonists, these recipes made good use of the plentiful pumpkins growing on developing farms around their newly forming towns. Now a traditional ending to Thanksgiving feasts throughout Canada and the United States, the ubiquitous pumpkin pie (with its famous pumpkin spice) is one of the best-
loved desserts in history.
Typically carved into jack-o’-lanterns around Halloween, pumpkins actually replaced turnips in that role. The Irish festival Samhain evolved into the contemporary Halloween celebration; for Samhain, faces were carved into large hollowed-out turnips
with candles lit inside. (These lanterns were placed along roadways to scare away fairies.) When Irish immigrants came to the colonies during the 1800s, they brought their traditions with them, transferring the carved turnip to the common American pumpkin. By the early 1900s, Halloween was a widely celebrated holiday in the United States.
A universal symbol of autumn, pumpkins also provide numerous important health benefits. Low-calorie and highfiber, pumpkin is also rich in Vitamin A, lutein, and zeaxanthin, all of
which are essential to eye health and help maintain sharp vision. Packed with Vitamin C and betacarotene, loaded with antioxidants and diseasezapping nutrients, pumpkins rank as a superfood. Most parts of the pumpkin are edible, including its tasty flowers.
Pumpkin seeds are even more magical: treasures filled with protein, magnesium, potassium, and zinc, pumpkin seeds also contain cancerfighting phytosterols. The roasted seeds are tasty and easy to make. They’re great snacks on their own, but you can also sprinkle them on salads, bake
them in breads, or grind them into your fresh pesto instead of pine nuts.
Pumpkins are delicious and nutritious pretty much any way you slice them. But don’t worry: turning into a pumpkin at midnight was only for Cinderella. Eat as much pumpkin as you want! It’s good for you.
Adapted from:
“All about Pumpkins.” www.learninga-z. com, 2025. https://www.learninga-z.com/ site/resources/breakroom-blog/all-aboutpumpkins.
Wellness Iniative for Senior Education
On July 31st, eight (8) seniors completed the 6week WISE (Wellness Initiative for Senior Education) class series at Golden Park Senior Apartments in Liberty. The group posed during co-facilitators Martin Colavito and Nancy McGraw.
underway and is taking place at CCE Sullivan with eight (8) seniors from September 15 through October 28th.
this workshop series, call us to get on a waiting list for the next WISE series, in early spring! 845-292-6180 x 122 or email: sullivancrc@cornell.edu.
This is an evidence-based program with a awareness of senior health and well-being.
The WISE program is a collaboration between the Caregiver Resource Center and SALT at CCE Sullivan through Community & Economic Vitality, and is supported in part by grant funding from New York State, Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
845-292-6180 x 122
sullivancrc@cornell.edu
Monthly Caregiver Support Groups:
1st Mondays at 10am –in person at CCE.
3rd Wednesdays at 6pm –Virtual via zoom or phone
2nd Wednesdays at 4pm –Parkinson’s Support Group -in person at CCE.
Tai Chi for Arthritis & Fall Prevention
Another Tai Chi for Arthritis & Fall Prevention series started September 9th and is full, with 18seniors enjoyingweekly Tai Chiexercisethrough Nov. 4th !
If you have arthritis, tai chi may be a great low impact exercise option. Tai chi is an ancient martial arts
meditation, and controlled breathing. It’s also known as tai chi chuan, tai chi quan, and taiji.
Tai chi also involves a combination of gentle movements and postures, which may help increase strength, coordination, and balance. Furthermore, controlled breathing is an important part of tai chi, which can help you achieve a calmer, meditative and relaxed state.
Although tai chi has been around for hundreds of years, it has grown in popularity recently for its
medical practitioners are beginning to recommend and refer their patients to take tai chi classes.
Bone Builders Fall Series
This popular class is also full, with 22 seniors registered for weekly classeson Thursdays at 11am, fromSept. 18th through Nov. 20th
REFLECTING ON A SUMMER WITH 4-H
Written and submitted by Barbara Moran, 4-H Youth Development Program Manager
Let’s reflect on Summer 2025 at the 4-H Fair, where youth from across the community showcase their hard work, creativity, and leadership through exciting projects. The fair is more than exhibits—it’s a celebration of positive youth development, hands-on learning, and the friendships that make 4-H special.
From animals and gardening to arts, STEM, and community service, every project reflects the dedication and curiosity of our 4-H members and Volunteers. The fair is a chance for youth to share their accomplishments, practice valuable life skills, and most importantly— have fun!
“Learn by Doing” is an important standard to our 4-H youth that helps them to build confidence, responsibility, and lifelong memories. As we move into the new 4-H year with the theme “Beyond Ready,” we can reflect back at the memories made at the 2025 Youth Fair and see that 4-H helps prepare our youth for community and career readiness.
scantheQRcode,
sc an the QR code, c all (845) 292-6180, email sullivan@cornell.edu or go to sullivancce.org/events.
