National Nutrition Month Live Sessions with SNAP-Ed NY Thursday, March 30, 2023 12:00 pm - 12:30 pm Online Event SNAP-Ed NY is excited to celebrate National Nutrition Month this March with this year’s theme “Fuel for the Future!” We invite you to take a mid-day break and tune in on Facebook or YouTube live as our Nutrition Educators share simple ways you can eat with the environment in mind, save money while grocery shopping, and cook tasty meals at home. Eating with sustainability in mind is a way to nourish ourselves during every phase of life while also protecting the environment!Schedule is as follows: Thursday March 2nd at 12:00 – 12:30 P.M. Eat with the Environment in Mind! Join Erica & Jo to chat about how to eat healthy and respect our planet. Wednesday, March 15th at 12:00 – 12:30 P.M. Save Money & Eat Healthy! Join Jairy on a grocery store tour as she shares tips to help save money. Thursday, March 30th at 12:00 – 12:30 P.M. Make Tasty Meals at Home! Join Christopher & Wendy as they demonstrate an easy and healthy recipe. To join, tune into our Facebook @SNAPEdNewYork or our YouTube @SNAP-Ed NY.Click here to view our flyer! Jenna Ricker, jr2283@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.248 ========================================= 4-H STEM Explorers Thursday, March 30, 2023 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County, 18 Seward Avenue Suite 300 (third floor), Middletown, New York 10940 4-H aims to grow the next generation of inventors, entrepreneurs and problem-solvers by giving youth plenty of opportunities to try their hands at real world science 4-H Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) projects give families science enrichment opportunities and connects kids to Cornell’s science outreach programs.STEM Explorers Is a combination of STEM Leaders & Nature Explorers. The program consists of bi-monthly meetings that offer youth a chance to explore various avenues in STEM.Click Here for Flier Carol McLaughlin, cm798@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.243 Registration: https://pub.cce.cornell.edu/event_registration/main/events_landing.cfm?event=4-H_STEM_Explorers_233 ========================================= Climate Stewards Training Program: Application Thursday, March 30, 2023 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm Online Event Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County (CCEOC) is undergoing its first 12-module training this spring. This effort will equip participants to act to address climate change in their communities through educational outreach and steward-led climate smart projects. Volunteer participants who complete this program will be supported in outreach efforts to help educate the public about the science of climate change and engage communities in mitigation and adaptation efforts.Application Information: Cornell Climate Stewards in Orange County commit to a 12 week training (24 hours of training that spans 15 weeks). The program in Orange County will be offered for $75.00 (financial assistance is available). Upon completion of the training, Cornell Climate Stewards are expected to independently implement climate actions or projects in their community, volunteering at least 40 hours to become a certified "Cornell Climate Steward". They will become official Orange County CCE volunteers and may work with CCE staff on climate-based events and programs.Cornell Climate Stewards trainee selection is based on an applicant’s ability to attend the training sessions as well as their demonstrated interest in working with their municipality on climate related projects. There is no fee to apply, the $75 course fee will only be charged if your application is approved.After applications are received, candidates will be contacted for a short interview.Click here to apply About The Course In each of the first 10 trainings, trainees will cover a specific climate change topic, with additional outside readings, videos and group activities designed to develop skills needed to lead and educate their communities in climate science, adaption, and mitigation. Throughout the course, trainees will design an individual or group community action project that they will present and discuss in the final two class sessions. This program’s curriculum was developed by Cornell University in partnership with CCE-Tompkins.Class Schedule:All classes are held Thursdays starting March 23 through June 8, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.Module 1: OrientationModule 2: The Science of Climate ChangeModule 3: Climate Change ImpactsModule 4: Working with Local Governments & CommunitiesModule 5: Climate Change MitigationModule 6: Community Mitigation StrategiesModule 7: Climate Change AdaptationModule 8: Community Adaptation Strategies Module 9: Effective Climate Change CommunicationModule 10: Planning Your Local Action Project Presentation & Discussion Presentation & DiscussionClick here for more information on our Climate Stewards program. $75, upon application approval Erik Schellenberg, jk2642@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.260 Registration: https://cornell.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_2b0ehw5RS6itGWa ========================================= Pruning @ Devitt's Nursery & Supply Saturday, April 1, 2023 10:00 am - 12:00 pm Devitt's Nursery and Supply, 56 Devitt Circle , New Windsor, NY 12553 Pruning is easy when you can identify how a plant grows, understand the purpose of pruning, and know proven pruning techniques. This class is designed to provide a solid base in the science and practice of selective pruning so you can enhance the beauty and vigor of your shrubs and trees. If you missed out pruning class in early March this is another opportunity to learn the ins and outs of pruning from our Master Gardener Volunteers! This class will be held at Devitt's Nursery & Supply in New Windsor.  Click on the link to their Facebook page below to let them know you are coming! Free Registration: https://www.facebook.com/events/5439213566185233 ========================================= 2023 4-H Dog Program Monday, April 3, 2023 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm CCEOC Education Center & 4-H Park, 300 Finchville Turnpike , Otisville, NY 10963 Enrollment is now open for youth to join Orange County 4-H’s Dog Program! This program is open to all youth interested in dog obedience and grooming and handling.A Dog Program Orientation will be held on Monday, March 20th at 6:30 P.M. at Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County’s Office located at 18 Seward Avenue in Middletown, NY.Attendance is mandatory for all participants and a parent/guardian.The training classes will be held on Mondays at Cornell Cooperative Extension’s Education Center & 4-H Park located at 300 Finchville Turnpike in Otisville, beginning April 3rd. These in-person classes will each run from 6:30 – 8:30 P.M. Youth must be 8 years old by 9/30/22 and not reached their 19th birthday prior to 1/1/23 and working with a dog of at least 6 months of age to participate. Dogs must be vaccinated for rabies. All dogs must be friendly and safely managed on a leash by youth. A copy of the dog’s vaccination records MUST be brought to the orientation with them.Participants must be enrolled in 4-H.  If you are not registered, please register online at: cceorangecounty4h.wildapricot.org. Be sure to fill out the Release Package as well as enrollment.The deadline to register is March 17. IMPORTANT NOTE: These classes are designed as a youth development experience for children, not as a place just to get your dog trained. Dogs need to be controlled by the youth, i.e., a 130 lb. strong dog and a 60 lb. kid will probably not work out. $30/ Youth Carol McLaughlin, cm798@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.243 Registration: https://cceorangecounty4h.wildapricot.org/event-5149861/Registration ========================================= 2023 Master Gardener Volunteer Soil Sale Tuesday, April 4, 2023 8:00 am - 6:00 pm Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County, 18 Seward Avenue Suite 300 (third floor), Middletown, New York 10940 Sale starts March 1st. We will take orders until we are sold out. Pick-up is on Tuesday, April 4th. The Master Gardener Volunteers are selling 2.8 cu. ft. bags of a professional growing mix called Premiere Pro Mix w/Mycorrhizae for $30.00 each. Place your order here! All soil must be ordered ahead of time and picked up on Tuesday, April 4, 2023 between the hours of 8:00 am and 6:00 pm.   Pick up will be at the CCE Orange County Office Building located at 18 Seward Avenue, Middletown, NY 10940. See map below for ‘Soil Pick Up’ location. If you cannot pick up you soil on April 4 th, please send someone else to pick it up for you.   Any soil not picked up by 6:00 pm on Tuesday, April 4th will be forfeited, and no refunds will be issued. Place your order here! Map of Location for Soil Pick Up $30 per bag Susan Ndiaye, sgn32@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.250 ========================================= 4-H Youth Tractor Safety Program Wednesday, April 5, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm The U.S. Dept. of Labor declares certain farm occupations too "hazardous" for youth below the age of 16. Tractor driving is included on this list, and these youth are prohibited from working on any farm but their home farm. Certain exemptions are permitted. An exemption is permitted for 14- and 15-year-olds if they have successfully completed a basic Tractor Safety Certification Program.The Orange County 4-H Tractor Program is open to any Orange County youth who is at least 14 years old; who needs to receive certification to work on a farm this summer; and/or who is looking for a fun, educational experience.Participants MUST attend all sessions, take, and pass the test to be certified.Registration Fee: $30 for registered 4-H members*$50 for non-members.To receive your 4H Discount Code, please contact Carol @ 845-344-1234 or cm798@cornell.eduClick Here for Flier $35 4- Youth, $50 Non-Registered Youth Grace Ott, gco26@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext. 258 Registration: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/2023OrangeCounty4-HTractorSafetyProgram ========================================= Climate Stewards Training Program: Application Thursday, April 6, 2023 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm Online Event Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County (CCEOC) is undergoing its first 12-module training this spring. This effort will equip participants to act to address climate change in their communities through educational outreach and steward-led climate smart projects. Volunteer participants who complete this program will be supported in outreach efforts to help educate the public about the science of climate change and engage communities in mitigation and adaptation efforts.Application Information: Cornell Climate Stewards in Orange County commit to a 12 week training (24 hours of training that spans 15 weeks). The program in Orange County will be offered for $75.00 (financial assistance is available). Upon completion of the training, Cornell Climate Stewards are expected to independently implement climate actions or projects in their community, volunteering at least 40 hours to become a certified "Cornell Climate Steward". They will become official Orange County CCE volunteers and may work with CCE staff on climate-based events and programs.Cornell Climate Stewards trainee selection is based on an applicant’s ability to attend the training sessions as well as their demonstrated interest in working with their municipality on climate related projects. There is no fee to apply, the $75 course fee will only be charged if your application is approved.After applications are received, candidates will be contacted for a short interview.Click here to apply About The Course In each of the first 10 trainings, trainees will cover a specific climate change topic, with additional outside readings, videos and group activities designed to develop skills needed to lead and educate their communities in climate science, adaption, and mitigation. Throughout the course, trainees will design an individual or group community action project that they will present and discuss in the final two class sessions. This program’s curriculum was developed by Cornell University in partnership with CCE-Tompkins.Class Schedule:All classes are held Thursdays starting March 23 through June 8, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.Module 1: OrientationModule 2: The Science of Climate ChangeModule 3: Climate Change ImpactsModule 4: Working with Local Governments & CommunitiesModule 5: Climate Change MitigationModule 6: Community Mitigation StrategiesModule 7: Climate Change AdaptationModule 8: Community Adaptation Strategies Module 9: Effective Climate Change CommunicationModule 10: Planning Your Local Action Project Presentation & Discussion Presentation & DiscussionClick here for more information on our Climate Stewards program. $75, upon application approval Erik Schellenberg, jk2642@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.260 Registration: https://cornell.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_2b0ehw5RS6itGWa ========================================= 2023 4-H Dog Program Monday, April 10, 2023 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm CCEOC Education Center & 4-H Park, 300 Finchville Turnpike , Otisville, NY 10963 Enrollment is now open for youth to join Orange County 4-H’s Dog Program! This program is open to all youth interested in dog obedience and grooming and handling.A Dog Program Orientation will be held on Monday, March 20th at 6:30 P.M. at Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County’s Office located at 18 Seward Avenue in Middletown, NY.Attendance is mandatory for all participants and a parent/guardian.The training classes will be held on Mondays at Cornell Cooperative Extension’s Education Center & 4-H Park located at 300 Finchville Turnpike in Otisville, beginning April 3rd. These in-person classes will each run from 6:30 – 8:30 P.M. Youth must be 8 years old by 9/30/22 and not reached their 19th birthday prior to 1/1/23 and working with a dog of at least 6 months of age to participate. Dogs must be vaccinated for rabies. All dogs must be friendly and safely managed on a leash by youth. A copy of the dog’s vaccination records MUST be brought to the orientation with them.Participants must be enrolled in 4-H.  If you are not registered, please register online at: cceorangecounty4h.wildapricot.org. Be sure to fill out the Release Package as well as enrollment.The deadline to register is March 17. IMPORTANT NOTE: These classes are designed as a youth development experience for children, not as a place just to get your dog trained. Dogs need to be controlled by the youth, i.e., a 130 lb. strong dog and a 60 lb. kid will probably not work out. $30/ Youth Carol McLaughlin, cm798@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.243 Registration: https://cceorangecounty4h.wildapricot.org/event-5149861/Registration ========================================= Let's Cook Together Spring Series 2023 Wednesday, April 12, 2023 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm Let's Cook Together!This is an 8-week cooking class series for parents/caregivers and children, in grades 3-12.Together you will: Prepare healthy recipes that your kids will loveLearn tips on how to save time & money when shopping and planning mealsThere is no cost and classes will be held at CCE Orange County's office located at:18 Seward Avenue (third floor) Middletown, NY 10940.To be put on the wait list for the next series,Contact Annemarie to register by calling 845-344-1234 Extension 273.Click HERE for the flyer. FREE Annemarie Stephens, as488@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.273 ========================================= 4-H STEM Explorers Thursday, April 13, 2023 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County, 18 Seward Avenue Suite 300 (third floor), Middletown, New York 10940 4-H aims to grow the next generation of inventors, entrepreneurs and problem-solvers by giving youth plenty of opportunities to try their hands at real world science 4-H Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) projects give families science enrichment opportunities and connects kids to Cornell’s science outreach programs.STEM Explorers Is a combination of STEM Leaders & Nature Explorers. The program consists of bi-monthly meetings that offer youth a chance to explore various avenues in STEM.Click Here for Flier Carol McLaughlin, cm798@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.243 Registration: https://pub.cce.cornell.edu/event_registration/main/events_landing.cfm?event=4-H_STEM_Explorers_233 ========================================= Climate Stewards Training Program: Application Thursday, April 13, 2023 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm Online Event Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County (CCEOC) is undergoing its first 12-module training this spring. This effort will equip participants to act to address climate change in their communities through educational outreach and steward-led climate smart projects. Volunteer participants who complete this program will be supported in outreach efforts to help educate the public about the science of climate change and engage communities in mitigation and adaptation efforts.Application Information: Cornell Climate Stewards in Orange County commit to a 12 week training (24 hours of training that spans 15 weeks). The program in Orange County will be offered for $75.00 (financial assistance is available). Upon completion of the training, Cornell Climate Stewards are expected to independently implement climate actions or projects in their community, volunteering at least 40 hours to become a certified "Cornell Climate Steward". They will become official Orange County CCE volunteers and may work with CCE staff on climate-based events and programs.Cornell Climate Stewards trainee selection is based on an applicant’s ability to attend the training sessions as well as their demonstrated interest in working with their municipality on climate related projects. There is no fee to apply, the $75 course fee will only be charged if your application is approved.After applications are received, candidates will be contacted for a short interview.Click here to apply About The Course In each of the first 10 trainings, trainees will cover a specific climate change topic, with additional outside readings, videos and group activities designed to develop skills needed to lead and educate their communities in climate science, adaption, and mitigation. Throughout the course, trainees will design an individual or group community action project that they will present and discuss in the final two class sessions. This program’s curriculum was developed by Cornell University in partnership with CCE-Tompkins.Class Schedule:All classes are held Thursdays starting March 23 through June 8, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.Module 1: OrientationModule 2: The Science of Climate ChangeModule 3: Climate Change ImpactsModule 4: Working with Local Governments & CommunitiesModule 5: Climate Change MitigationModule 6: Community Mitigation StrategiesModule 7: Climate Change AdaptationModule 8: Community Adaptation Strategies Module 9: Effective Climate Change CommunicationModule 10: Planning Your Local Action Project Presentation & Discussion Presentation & DiscussionClick here for more information on our Climate Stewards program. $75, upon application approval Erik Schellenberg, jk2642@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.260 Registration: https://cornell.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_2b0ehw5RS6itGWa ========================================= Strengthening Families Program - Spring 2023 Thursday, April 13, 2023 6:00 pm - 8:30 pm Newburgh Armory Unity Center, 321 S Willam Street , Newburgh, NY 12550 For Parents/Caregivers and Youth who are 10-14 years old to attend together!This fun, unique 7 session program allows adults and their youth to build upon their strengths, enhance relationship and communication skills, practice peer pressure resistance skills and learn how to work through critical teen issues together. This program includes FREE childcare for children ages 3-9 years old.“The program was very helpful and directly applicable for parents. I will use what I learned for the rest of my children’s lives.”– Participating parentThis program is fully covered by a generous grant from the Orange County Youth Bureau, so this program is FREE FOR ALL FAMILIES.Click here for the Flyer. Click Here to Register. No fee but registration is required and limited. Julika von Stackelberg, jv426@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.274 ========================================= Be Inspired! A Volunteer Appreciation Event Saturday, April 15, 2023 10:00 am - 12:00 pm Education Center & 4-H Park, 300 Finchville Turnpike , Otisville, New York 10963 This event is for all CCE Orange County Volunteers! Join us as we celebrate you, our volunteers, for all of the work you do for our organization!This event includes a light brunch. When registering, please let us know of any dietary restrictions in the comment box. Your comments will NOT be visible to other volunteers. Susan Ndiaye, sgn32@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.250 Registration: https://cceorangecounty.volunteermatters.org/project-catalog/183 ========================================= Me and My Guy Cooking Series Saturday, April 15, 2023 11:30 am - 1:30 pm This is an 8-week cooking class series for Male Parents/ Caregiver and their children (3rd-12th Grade)Together you will: prepare, cook, and taste healthy recipes.Each week introduces a new MyPlate food group and cooking techniques.Fun physical activities, discussion of successes and challenges will be shared weekly!Click Here for the Flyer FREE - Pre-registration required. Contact Annemarie to register. Annemarie Stephens, as488@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.273 ========================================= 4-H Youth Tractor Safety Program Sunday, April 16, 2023 9:00 am - 12:00 pm The U.S. Dept. of Labor declares certain farm occupations too "hazardous" for youth below the age of 16. Tractor driving is included on this list, and these youth are prohibited from working on any farm but their home farm. Certain exemptions are permitted. An exemption is permitted for 14- and 15-year-olds if they have successfully completed a basic Tractor Safety Certification Program.The Orange County 4-H Tractor Program is open to any Orange County youth who is at least 14 years old; who needs to receive certification to work on a farm this summer; and/or who is looking for a fun, educational experience.Participants MUST attend all sessions, take, and pass the test to be certified.Registration Fee: $30 for registered 4-H members*$50 for non-members.To receive your 4H Discount Code, please contact Carol @ 845-344-1234 or cm798@cornell.eduClick Here for Flier $35 4- Youth, $50 Non-Registered Youth Grace Ott, gco26@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext. 258 Registration: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/2023OrangeCounty4-HTractorSafetyProgram ========================================= 2023 4-H Dog Program Monday, April 17, 2023 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm CCEOC Education Center & 4-H Park, 300 Finchville Turnpike , Otisville, NY 10963 Enrollment is now open for youth to join Orange County 4-H’s Dog Program! This program is open to all youth interested in dog obedience and grooming and handling.A Dog Program Orientation will be held on Monday, March 20th at 6:30 P.M. at Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County’s Office located at 18 Seward Avenue in Middletown, NY.Attendance is mandatory for all participants and a parent/guardian.The training classes will be held on Mondays at Cornell Cooperative Extension’s Education Center & 4-H Park located at 300 Finchville Turnpike in Otisville, beginning April 3rd. These in-person classes will each run from 6:30 – 8:30 P.M. Youth must be 8 years old by 9/30/22 and not reached their 19th birthday prior to 1/1/23 and working with a dog of at least 6 months of age to participate. Dogs must be vaccinated for rabies. All dogs must be friendly and safely managed on a leash by youth. A copy of the dog’s vaccination records MUST be brought to the orientation with them.Participants must be enrolled in 4-H.  If you are not registered, please register online at: cceorangecounty4h.wildapricot.org. Be sure to fill out the Release Package as well as enrollment.The deadline to register is March 17. IMPORTANT NOTE: These classes are designed as a youth development experience for children, not as a place just to get your dog trained. Dogs need to be controlled by the youth, i.e., a 130 lb. strong dog and a 60 lb. kid will probably not work out. $30/ Youth Carol McLaughlin, cm798@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.243 Registration: https://cceorangecounty4h.wildapricot.org/event-5149861/Registration ========================================= Let's Cook Together Spring Series 2023 Wednesday, April 19, 2023 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm Let's Cook Together!This is an 8-week cooking class series for parents/caregivers and children, in grades 3-12.Together you will: Prepare healthy recipes that your kids will loveLearn tips on how to save time & money when shopping and planning mealsThere is no cost and classes will be held at CCE Orange County's office located at:18 Seward Avenue (third floor) Middletown, NY 10940.To be put on the wait list for the next series,Contact Annemarie to register by calling 845-344-1234 Extension 273.Click HERE for the flyer. FREE Annemarie Stephens, as488@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.273 ========================================= Connecting with your Children Virtual Workshop Wednesday, April 19, 2023 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm Online Event An interactive, virtual workshop to help build active listening skills and enhance relationships.Protective factors are safeguards to help children function well at home, in school, and in their community. Building strong relationships and fostering connectivity are essential to providing strong protective factors for our families. Please join us for our first session entitled: Connecting with your Child.Please join us to: Learn about the Five Protective Factors and why connection is so critical for our relationships with our children. Gain an understanding of Active Listening and I Statements.Learn tips and tricks on ways to build rapport with your young children.Connect with other parents and caregiversClick here to view our flyer!Click here to register! Free, preregistration is required ========================================= Gardening Questions Answered - 2023 Third Thursday Series Thursday, April 20, 2023 12:00 pm - 12:30 pm Online Event Join us every month on the third Thursday at noon as we answer your gardening questions. Each month we will focus on a specific topic. Pick and choose the topics that interest you. If you have any questions, you can submit them using this form. Photos are much appreciated. If you can't think of any question now, you can always use this form to submit questions later. You will receive a Zoom Link the week before each session for which you are registered. Don't worry if you can't make it, we will send out a link to the recording after each session. We will also post the recordings on our website. Gardening Questions Answered Date  Time Topic Thursday, January 19th 12:00 pm Winter Damage on Plants Thursday, February 16th 12:00 pm Soil Testing for Home Gardeners Thursday, March 16th 12:00 pm Tree Care Thursday, April 20th 12:00 pm Pests of Ornamentals Thursday, May 18th 12:00 pm Beneficial Insects in the Garden Thursday, June 15th 12:00 pm Invasive Plants Thursday, July 20th 12:00 pm Pests in your Vegetable Garden Thursday, August 17th 12:00 pm Invasive Insects & other Invertebrates Thursday, September 21st 12:00 pm Growing Fruit in your Backyard Thursday, October 19th 12:00 pm Home Invaders: Managing Overwintering Insects in your Home Thursday, November 16th 12:00 pm Care for Evergreen Shrubs & Trees Thursday, December 21st 12:00 pm Houseplants Free Susan M. D'Egidio, smd348@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.240 Registration: https://cornell.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9mcyeqAsPgLTqR0 ========================================= Climate Stewards Training Program: Application Thursday, April 20, 2023 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm Online Event Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County (CCEOC) is undergoing its first 12-module training this spring. This effort will equip participants to act to address climate change in their communities through educational outreach and steward-led climate smart projects. Volunteer participants who complete this program will be supported in outreach efforts to help educate the public about the science of climate change and engage communities in mitigation and adaptation efforts.Application Information: Cornell Climate Stewards in Orange County commit to a 12 week training (24 hours of training that spans 15 weeks). The program in Orange County will be offered for $75.00 (financial assistance is available). Upon completion of the training, Cornell Climate Stewards are expected to independently implement climate actions or projects in their community, volunteering at least 40 hours to become a certified "Cornell Climate Steward". They will become official Orange County CCE volunteers and may work with CCE staff on climate-based events and programs.Cornell Climate Stewards trainee selection is based on an applicant’s ability to attend the training sessions as well as their demonstrated interest in working with their municipality on climate related projects. There is no fee to apply, the $75 course fee will only be charged if your application is approved.After applications are received, candidates will be contacted for a short interview.Click here to apply About The Course In each of the first 10 trainings, trainees will cover a specific climate change topic, with additional outside readings, videos and group activities designed to develop skills needed to lead and educate their communities in climate science, adaption, and mitigation. Throughout the course, trainees will design an individual or group community action project that they will present and discuss in the final two class sessions. This program’s curriculum was developed by Cornell University in partnership with CCE-Tompkins.Class Schedule:All classes are held Thursdays starting March 23 through June 8, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.Module 1: OrientationModule 2: The Science of Climate ChangeModule 3: Climate Change ImpactsModule 4: Working with Local Governments & CommunitiesModule 5: Climate Change MitigationModule 6: Community Mitigation StrategiesModule 7: Climate Change AdaptationModule 8: Community Adaptation Strategies Module 9: Effective Climate Change CommunicationModule 10: Planning Your Local Action Project Presentation & Discussion Presentation & DiscussionClick here for more information on our Climate Stewards program. $75, upon application approval Erik Schellenberg, jk2642@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.260 Registration: https://cornell.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_2b0ehw5RS6itGWa ========================================= Strengthening Families Program - Spring 2023 Thursday, April 20, 2023 6:00 pm - 8:30 pm Newburgh Armory Unity Center, 321 S Willam Street , Newburgh, NY 12550 For Parents/Caregivers and Youth who are 10-14 years old to attend together!This fun, unique 7 session program allows adults and their youth to build upon their strengths, enhance relationship and communication skills, practice peer pressure resistance skills and learn how to work through critical teen issues together. This program includes FREE childcare for children ages 3-9 years old.“The program was very helpful and directly applicable for parents. I will use what I learned for the rest of my children’s lives.”– Participating parentThis program is fully covered by a generous grant from the Orange County Youth Bureau, so this program is FREE FOR ALL FAMILIES.Click here for the Flyer. Click Here to Register. No fee but registration is required and limited. Julika von Stackelberg, jv426@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.274 ========================================= Create a Teepee Trellis 2023 Saturday, April 22, 2023 10:00 am - 11:30 am Education Center & 4-H Park, 300 Finchville Turnpike , Otisville, New York 10963 Trellising has been a longstanding garden tradition for both function and beauty. From the corn stalk trellises used in a Three Sisters Garden to metal tomato cages, trellises are an essential garden structure for healthy plants. Homemade garden trellises provide a perfect place to grow climbing plants. Your instructors will guide you in designing your own six-foot grapevine wrapped teepee trellis to incorporate into your garden. Take it home ready to use in your vegetable or flower garden to support vines or you may decide to add your own lights later to use your trellis as a garden accent!Registration closes: Friday, April 14th. Registration is limited to the first 15 people. Fee: $35 per person, includes all materials to make a 6’ teepee trellis $35 Susan M. D'Egidio, smd348@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.240 Registration: https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E190538&id=710 ========================================= 4-H Youth Tractor Safety Program Saturday, April 22, 2023 9:00 am - 12:00 pm The U.S. Dept. of Labor declares certain farm occupations too "hazardous" for youth below the age of 16. Tractor driving is included on this list, and these youth are prohibited from working on any farm but their home farm. Certain exemptions are permitted. An exemption is permitted for 14- and 15-year-olds if they have successfully completed a basic Tractor Safety Certification Program.The Orange County 4-H Tractor Program is open to any Orange County youth who is at least 14 years old; who needs to receive certification to work on a farm this summer; and/or who is looking for a fun, educational experience.Participants MUST attend all sessions, take, and pass the test to be certified.Registration Fee: $30 for registered 4-H members*$50 for non-members.To receive your 4H Discount Code, please contact Carol @ 845-344-1234 or cm798@cornell.eduClick Here for Flier $35 4- Youth, $50 Non-Registered Youth Grace Ott, gco26@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext. 258 Registration: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/2023OrangeCounty4-HTractorSafetyProgram ========================================= Me and My Guy Cooking Series Saturday, April 22, 2023 11:30 am - 1:30 pm This is an 8-week cooking class series for Male Parents/ Caregiver and their children (3rd-12th Grade)Together you will: prepare, cook, and taste healthy recipes.Each week introduces a new MyPlate food group and cooking techniques.Fun physical activities, discussion of successes and challenges will be shared weekly!Click Here for the Flyer FREE - Pre-registration required. Contact Annemarie to register. Annemarie Stephens, as488@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.273 ========================================= Youth Mental Health First Aid Wednesday, April 26, 2023 9:30 am - 4:00 pm This program is for adults only.The Certified Youth Mental Health First Aid Trainers are: Adhara Jimenez-Banse, MSW, CCE 2Gen Resilience EducatorKristina Garritano Hoti, MSWSkills gained in becoming a Youth Mental Health First Aider include: Recognizing signs and symptoms of mental health and substance use challenges.Differentiating between typical adolescent development/behaviors, and signs of likely mental health challenges where first aider outreach can provide crucial preventive impacts.Understanding of the best ways to interact with a young person experiencing mental health or substance use challenge(s) or crisis.Knowledge and comfort with connecting an at-risk youth to local professional help and community services.Increased understanding of trauma, substance use, self-care, & social media usage/cyber-bullying impacts.Click Here for the FlyerClick Here to Register Free Carol McLaughlin, cm798@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.243 ========================================= Let's Cook Together Spring Series 2023 Wednesday, April 26, 2023 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm Let's Cook Together!This is an 8-week cooking class series for parents/caregivers and children, in grades 3-12.Together you will: Prepare healthy recipes that your kids will loveLearn tips on how to save time & money when shopping and planning mealsThere is no cost and classes will be held at CCE Orange County's office located at:18 Seward Avenue (third floor) Middletown, NY 10940.To be put on the wait list for the next series,Contact Annemarie to register by calling 845-344-1234 Extension 273.Click HERE for the flyer. FREE Annemarie Stephens, as488@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.273 ========================================= 4-H STEM Explorers Thursday, April 27, 2023 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County, 18 Seward Avenue Suite 300 (third floor), Middletown, New York 10940 4-H aims to grow the next generation of inventors, entrepreneurs and problem-solvers by giving youth plenty of opportunities to try their hands at real world science 4-H Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) projects give families science enrichment opportunities and connects kids to Cornell’s science outreach programs.STEM Explorers Is a combination of STEM Leaders & Nature Explorers. The program consists of bi-monthly meetings that offer youth a chance to explore various avenues in STEM.Click Here for Flier Carol McLaughlin, cm798@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.243 Registration: https://pub.cce.cornell.edu/event_registration/main/events_landing.cfm?event=4-H_STEM_Explorers_233 ========================================= Climate Stewards Training Program: Application Thursday, April 27, 2023 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm Online Event Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County (CCEOC) is undergoing its first 12-module training this spring. This effort will equip participants to act to address climate change in their communities through educational outreach and steward-led climate smart projects. Volunteer participants who complete this program will be supported in outreach efforts to help educate the public about the science of climate change and engage communities in mitigation and adaptation efforts.Application Information: Cornell Climate Stewards in Orange County commit to a 12 week training (24 hours of training that spans 15 weeks). The program in Orange County will be offered for $75.00 (financial assistance is available). Upon completion of the training, Cornell Climate Stewards are expected to independently implement climate actions or projects in their community, volunteering at least 40 hours to become a certified "Cornell Climate Steward". They will become official Orange County CCE volunteers and may work with CCE staff on climate-based events and programs.Cornell Climate Stewards trainee selection is based on an applicant’s ability to attend the training sessions as well as their demonstrated interest in working with their municipality on climate related projects. There is no fee to apply, the $75 course fee will only be charged if your application is approved.After applications are received, candidates will be contacted for a short interview.Click here to apply About The Course In each of the first 10 trainings, trainees will cover a specific climate change topic, with additional outside readings, videos and group activities designed to develop skills needed to lead and educate their communities in climate science, adaption, and mitigation. Throughout the course, trainees will design an individual or group community action project that they will present and discuss in the final two class sessions. This program’s curriculum was developed by Cornell University in partnership with CCE-Tompkins.Class Schedule:All classes are held Thursdays starting March 23 through June 8, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.Module 1: OrientationModule 2: The Science of Climate ChangeModule 3: Climate Change ImpactsModule 4: Working with Local Governments & CommunitiesModule 5: Climate Change MitigationModule 6: Community Mitigation StrategiesModule 7: Climate Change AdaptationModule 8: Community Adaptation Strategies Module 9: Effective Climate Change CommunicationModule 10: Planning Your Local Action Project Presentation & Discussion Presentation & DiscussionClick here for more information on our Climate Stewards program. $75, upon application approval Erik Schellenberg, jk2642@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.260 Registration: https://cornell.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_2b0ehw5RS6itGWa ========================================= Strengthening Families Program - Spring 2023 Thursday, April 27, 2023 6:00 pm - 8:30 pm Newburgh Armory Unity Center, 321 S Willam Street , Newburgh, NY 12550 For Parents/Caregivers and Youth who are 10-14 years old to attend together!This fun, unique 7 session program allows adults and their youth to build upon their strengths, enhance relationship and communication skills, practice peer pressure resistance skills and learn how to work through critical teen issues together. This program includes FREE childcare for children ages 3-9 years old.“The program was very helpful and directly applicable for parents. I will use what I learned for the rest of my children’s lives.”– Participating parentThis program is fully covered by a generous grant from the Orange County Youth Bureau, so this program is FREE FOR ALL FAMILIES.Click here for the Flyer. Click Here to Register. No fee but registration is required and limited. Julika von Stackelberg, jv426@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.274 ========================================= Me and My Guy Cooking Series Saturday, April 29, 2023 11:30 am - 1:30 pm This is an 8-week cooking class series for Male Parents/ Caregiver and their children (3rd-12th Grade)Together you will: prepare, cook, and taste healthy recipes.Each week introduces a new MyPlate food group and cooking techniques.Fun physical activities, discussion of successes and challenges will be shared weekly!Click Here for the Flyer FREE - Pre-registration required. Contact Annemarie to register. Annemarie Stephens, as488@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.273 ========================================= Commercial Production of Log-grown Shiitake Class & Related Forestry Management Saturday, April 29, 2023 9:00 am - 2:00 pm Education Center & 4-H Park, 300 Finchville Turnpike , Otisville, New York 10963 Join Erik Schellenberg, Craig Vollmer and Mark Krawczyk on Saturday April 29th for a day of mushroom production and forestry. We will cover the basics and the details of shiitake production on logs with a focus on production efficiency at critical steps like inoculation, forcing, harvesting, and post-harvest handling. In addition, we will walk in the woods while discussing forestry management techniques and practices aimed at producing and harvesting the highest-quality bolts for mushroom production while enriching forest ecology.Both Mark and Erik have many years of shiitake growing experience, and Mark has been producing them commercially while optimizing efficiency and regenerative capacity of the enterprise. Principles and insights of Mark’s recent publication “Coppice Agroforestry: Tending Trees for Product, Profit, and Woodland Ecology” will help to guide our discussion of woodland management for mushroom production. Craig Vollmer is the executive director of the New York Forest Owner’s Association (NYFOA), which is a peer-to-peer organization that helps land owners and stewards learn how to manage their woodlands.If you would like to attend the class but require financial assistance, please contact the program leader, Erik Schellenberg, by email at jk2642@cornell.edu or by phone at (845)-344-1234 Ext.260.This event is in collaboration with NYFOA, visit their website, https://www.nyfoa.org/, for more information about their research and resources. Speaker Bio:Mark Krawczyk is an applied ecologist, educator, and grower incorporating permaculture design, agroforestry, natural building, traditional woodworking, and small-scale forestry. He owns and operates Keyline Vermont LLC, providing farmers, homeowners, and homesteaders with education, design, and consulting services. He and his wife also manage Valley Clayplain Forest Farm, 52 acres of field and forest in New Haven, Vermont. Mark grows shiitake mushrooms on logs commercially. $40 per person Justine Shaffer, js3644@cornell.edu Registration: https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E190538&id=748 ========================================= 2023 4-H Dog Program Monday, May 1, 2023 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm CCEOC Education Center & 4-H Park, 300 Finchville Turnpike , Otisville, NY 10963 Enrollment is now open for youth to join Orange County 4-H’s Dog Program! This program is open to all youth interested in dog obedience and grooming and handling.A Dog Program Orientation will be held on Monday, March 20th at 6:30 P.M. at Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County’s Office located at 18 Seward Avenue in Middletown, NY.Attendance is mandatory for all participants and a parent/guardian.The training classes will be held on Mondays at Cornell Cooperative Extension’s Education Center & 4-H Park located at 300 Finchville Turnpike in Otisville, beginning April 3rd. These in-person classes will each run from 6:30 – 8:30 P.M. Youth must be 8 years old by 9/30/22 and not reached their 19th birthday prior to 1/1/23 and working with a dog of at least 6 months of age to participate. Dogs must be vaccinated for rabies. All dogs must be friendly and safely managed on a leash by youth. A copy of the dog’s vaccination records MUST be brought to the orientation with them.Participants must be enrolled in 4-H.  If you are not registered, please register online at: cceorangecounty4h.wildapricot.org. Be sure to fill out the Release Package as well as enrollment.The deadline to register is March 17. IMPORTANT NOTE: These classes are designed as a youth development experience for children, not as a place just to get your dog trained. Dogs need to be controlled by the youth, i.e., a 130 lb. strong dog and a 60 lb. kid will probably not work out. $30/ Youth Carol McLaughlin, cm798@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.243 Registration: https://cceorangecounty4h.wildapricot.org/event-5149861/Registration ========================================= Let's Cook Together Spring Series 2023 Wednesday, May 3, 2023 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm Let's Cook Together!This is an 8-week cooking class series for parents/caregivers and children, in grades 3-12.Together you will: Prepare healthy recipes that your kids will loveLearn tips on how to save time & money when shopping and planning mealsThere is no cost and classes will be held at CCE Orange County's office located at:18 Seward Avenue (third floor) Middletown, NY 10940.To be put on the wait list for the next series,Contact Annemarie to register by calling 845-344-1234 Extension 273.Click HERE for the flyer. FREE Annemarie Stephens, as488@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.273 ========================================= Climate Stewards Training Program: Application Thursday, May 4, 2023 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm Online Event Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County (CCEOC) is undergoing its first 12-module training this spring. This effort will equip participants to act to address climate change in their communities through educational outreach and steward-led climate smart projects. Volunteer participants who complete this program will be supported in outreach efforts to help educate the public about the science of climate change and engage communities in mitigation and adaptation efforts.Application Information: Cornell Climate Stewards in Orange County commit to a 12 week training (24 hours of training that spans 15 weeks). The program in Orange County will be offered for $75.00 (financial assistance is available). Upon completion of the training, Cornell Climate Stewards are expected to independently implement climate actions or projects in their community, volunteering at least 40 hours to become a certified "Cornell Climate Steward". They will become official Orange County CCE volunteers and may work with CCE staff on climate-based events and programs.Cornell Climate Stewards trainee selection is based on an applicant’s ability to attend the training sessions as well as their demonstrated interest in working with their municipality on climate related projects. There is no fee to apply, the $75 course fee will only be charged if your application is approved.After applications are received, candidates will be contacted for a short interview.Click here to apply About The Course In each of the first 10 trainings, trainees will cover a specific climate change topic, with additional outside readings, videos and group activities designed to develop skills needed to lead and educate their communities in climate science, adaption, and mitigation. Throughout the course, trainees will design an individual or group community action project that they will present and discuss in the final two class sessions. This program’s curriculum was developed by Cornell University in partnership with CCE-Tompkins.Class Schedule:All classes are held Thursdays starting March 23 through June 8, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.Module 1: OrientationModule 2: The Science of Climate ChangeModule 3: Climate Change ImpactsModule 4: Working with Local Governments & CommunitiesModule 5: Climate Change MitigationModule 6: Community Mitigation StrategiesModule 7: Climate Change AdaptationModule 8: Community Adaptation Strategies Module 9: Effective Climate Change CommunicationModule 10: Planning Your Local Action Project Presentation & Discussion Presentation & DiscussionClick here for more information on our Climate Stewards program. $75, upon application approval Erik Schellenberg, jk2642@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.260 Registration: https://cornell.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_2b0ehw5RS6itGWa ========================================= Strengthening Families Program - Spring 2023 Thursday, May 4, 2023 6:00 pm - 8:30 pm Newburgh Armory Unity Center, 321 S Willam Street , Newburgh, NY 12550 For Parents/Caregivers and Youth who are 10-14 years old to attend together!This fun, unique 7 session program allows adults and their youth to build upon their strengths, enhance relationship and communication skills, practice peer pressure resistance skills and learn how to work through critical teen issues together. This program includes FREE childcare for children ages 3-9 years old.“The program was very helpful and directly applicable for parents. I will use what I learned for the rest of my children’s lives.”– Participating parentThis program is fully covered by a generous grant from the Orange County Youth Bureau, so this program is FREE FOR ALL FAMILIES.Click here for the Flyer. Click Here to Register. No fee but registration is required and limited. Julika von Stackelberg, jv426@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.274 ========================================= Me and My Guy Cooking Series Saturday, May 6, 2023 11:30 am - 1:30 pm This is an 8-week cooking class series for Male Parents/ Caregiver and their children (3rd-12th Grade)Together you will: prepare, cook, and taste healthy recipes.Each week introduces a new MyPlate food group and cooking techniques.Fun physical activities, discussion of successes and challenges will be shared weekly!Click Here for the Flyer FREE - Pre-registration required. Contact Annemarie to register. Annemarie Stephens, as488@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.273 ========================================= 2023 4-H Dog Program Monday, May 8, 2023 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm CCEOC Education Center & 4-H Park, 300 Finchville Turnpike , Otisville, NY 10963 Enrollment is now open for youth to join Orange County 4-H’s Dog Program! This program is open to all youth interested in dog obedience and grooming and handling.A Dog Program Orientation will be held on Monday, March 20th at 6:30 P.M. at Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County’s Office located at 18 Seward Avenue in Middletown, NY.Attendance is mandatory for all participants and a parent/guardian.The training classes will be held on Mondays at Cornell Cooperative Extension’s Education Center & 4-H Park located at 300 Finchville Turnpike in Otisville, beginning April 3rd. These in-person classes will each run from 6:30 – 8:30 P.M. Youth must be 8 years old by 9/30/22 and not reached their 19th birthday prior to 1/1/23 and working with a dog of at least 6 months of age to participate. Dogs must be vaccinated for rabies. All dogs must be friendly and safely managed on a leash by youth. A copy of the dog’s vaccination records MUST be brought to the orientation with them.Participants must be enrolled in 4-H.  If you are not registered, please register online at: cceorangecounty4h.wildapricot.org. Be sure to fill out the Release Package as well as enrollment.The deadline to register is March 17. IMPORTANT NOTE: These classes are designed as a youth development experience for children, not as a place just to get your dog trained. Dogs need to be controlled by the youth, i.e., a 130 lb. strong dog and a 60 lb. kid will probably not work out. $30/ Youth Carol McLaughlin, cm798@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.243 Registration: https://cceorangecounty4h.wildapricot.org/event-5149861/Registration ========================================= Let's Cook Together Spring Series 2023 Wednesday, May 10, 2023 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm Let's Cook Together!This is an 8-week cooking class series for parents/caregivers and children, in grades 3-12.Together you will: Prepare healthy recipes that your kids will loveLearn tips on how to save time & money when shopping and planning mealsThere is no cost and classes will be held at CCE Orange County's office located at:18 Seward Avenue (third floor) Middletown, NY 10940.To be put on the wait list for the next series,Contact Annemarie to register by calling 845-344-1234 Extension 273.Click HERE for the flyer. FREE Annemarie Stephens, as488@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.273 ========================================= Climate Stewards Training Program: Application Thursday, May 11, 2023 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm Online Event Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County (CCEOC) is undergoing its first 12-module training this spring. This effort will equip participants to act to address climate change in their communities through educational outreach and steward-led climate smart projects. Volunteer participants who complete this program will be supported in outreach efforts to help educate the public about the science of climate change and engage communities in mitigation and adaptation efforts.Application Information: Cornell Climate Stewards in Orange County commit to a 12 week training (24 hours of training that spans 15 weeks). The program in Orange County will be offered for $75.00 (financial assistance is available). Upon completion of the training, Cornell Climate Stewards are expected to independently implement climate actions or projects in their community, volunteering at least 40 hours to become a certified "Cornell Climate Steward". They will become official Orange County CCE volunteers and may work with CCE staff on climate-based events and programs.Cornell Climate Stewards trainee selection is based on an applicant’s ability to attend the training sessions as well as their demonstrated interest in working with their municipality on climate related projects. There is no fee to apply, the $75 course fee will only be charged if your application is approved.After applications are received, candidates will be contacted for a short interview.Click here to apply About The Course In each of the first 10 trainings, trainees will cover a specific climate change topic, with additional outside readings, videos and group activities designed to develop skills needed to lead and educate their communities in climate science, adaption, and mitigation. Throughout the course, trainees will design an individual or group community action project that they will present and discuss in the final two class sessions. This program’s curriculum was developed by Cornell University in partnership with CCE-Tompkins.Class Schedule:All classes are held Thursdays starting March 23 through June 8, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.Module 1: OrientationModule 2: The Science of Climate ChangeModule 3: Climate Change ImpactsModule 4: Working with Local Governments & CommunitiesModule 5: Climate Change MitigationModule 6: Community Mitigation StrategiesModule 7: Climate Change AdaptationModule 8: Community Adaptation Strategies Module 9: Effective Climate Change CommunicationModule 10: Planning Your Local Action Project Presentation & Discussion Presentation & DiscussionClick here for more information on our Climate Stewards program. $75, upon application approval Erik Schellenberg, jk2642@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.260 Registration: https://cornell.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_2b0ehw5RS6itGWa ========================================= Strengthening Families Program - Spring 2023 Thursday, May 11, 2023 6:00 pm - 8:30 pm Newburgh Armory Unity Center, 321 S Willam Street , Newburgh, NY 12550 For Parents/Caregivers and Youth who are 10-14 years old to attend together!This fun, unique 7 session program allows adults and their youth to build upon their strengths, enhance relationship and communication skills, practice peer pressure resistance skills and learn how to work through critical teen issues together. This program includes FREE childcare for children ages 3-9 years old.“The program was very helpful and directly applicable for parents. I will use what I learned for the rest of my children’s lives.”– Participating parentThis program is fully covered by a generous grant from the Orange County Youth Bureau, so this program is FREE FOR ALL FAMILIES.Click here for the Flyer. Click Here to Register. No fee but registration is required and limited. Julika von Stackelberg, jv426@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.274 ========================================= 2023 Gardening Classes Saturday, May 13, 2023 9:00 am - 10:30 am Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County, 18 Seward Avenue Suite 300 (third floor), Middletown, New York 10940 Join us for our 2023 Gardening Classes! Taught by our Master Gardener Volunteers these classes will be held on the 2nd Saturday of the month @ 9:00 am. (Note that there are two classes in March, the 2nd and 4th Saturdays, and no class in April or July.)  Sign-up for as many classes as you would like.2023 Gardening Classes Date and Time Topic Description Saturday, January 14th @ 9:00 am Landscaping for New Homeowners When moving into a new home, figuring out what to do with the landscaping can be quite overwhelming. This class will take you through the process starting with assessing everything in your yard, both the hardscaping — sidewalks, patios, driveways — and the softscaping — flowers, shrubs, tree, lawn. We will then discuss how to create a long-range plan for your yard and how to start making changes. In the event of inclement weather, this class will be held virtually via Zoom. Saturday, February 11th @ 9:00 am Shiitake Mushroom Cultivation Learn about the history, benefits, and proven best practices for growing Shiitake mushrooms on logs at home or for small scale commercial use. In the event of inclement weather, this class will be held virtually via Zoom. Saturday, March 11th @ 9:00 am Pruning Pruning is easy when you can identify how a plant grows, understand the purpose of pruning, and know proven pruning techniques. This class is designed to provide a solid base in the science and practice of selective pruning so you can enhance the beauty and vigor of your shrubs and trees. Saturday, March 25th @ 9:00 am Home Composting Not sure what to do with your kitchen, garden, and yard scraps? Would you like to start composting at home? Come learn the basics of home composting including what, where, and how to compost. We also will provide proven suggestions for your home compost bin design and discuss vermicomposting (composting with worms). Saturday, May 13th @ 9:00 am Vegetable Gardening During this class you will learn all about vegetable gardening from deciding where to put your garden to when to harvest your bounty. You will also learn about numerous crops that grow well in our area, how and when to plant them, and how to care for your garden throughout the year. Saturday, June 10th @ 9:00 am Container Gardening Whether you are looking to grow vegetables and herbs, create a beautiful living screen, or just beautify your home, this class will help you get your container gardens off to a great start. Learn how to choose your containers, select and arrange plants, and maintain your containers so they look fabulous throughout the garden season. Saturday, August 12th @ 9:00 am Lawncare for Homeowners When is the best time to fertilize your lawn? What variety of grass seed grows best in the shade? How often should you lime your lawn? How do you know if you have a grub problem? Come learn the answers to these questions and more as we discuss how to make your lawn an attractive environmental asset. Saturday, September 9th @ 9:00 am Lawn Elimination and Reduction Picturesque lawns require vast inputs of time, energy, lawn care products, and water, but offer little wildlife habitat or food for people. This program will cover the basics of lawn reduction or elimination for the homeowner. We will discuss your goals, budgeting time and money, site assessment and site preparation, as well as the selection of appropriate plant material, including tips for establishing a wildflower meadow. Saturday, October 14th @ 9:00 am Putting the Garden to Bed Preparing a garden for overwintering is an art and a science. Removing dead leaves from some plants is healthy; others require them for winter protection. Many species, though dead, contribute food and form and creature protection; others benefit from wrapping against harsh winds and hungry deer. Learn the basics and apply them to your own garden. Saturday, November 11th @ 9:00 am Integrating  Native Plants in Your Garden Native plants can enhance your garden by adding structure, color, and texture, as well as food for native fauna such as pollinators and birds. During this class we will explore plants native to our region and how you can successfully integrate them into your current gardens transforming them into beautiful native sanctuaries. Participants are encouraged to bring photos, site plans, and plant lists from their current gardens. After a short presentation we will work together to develop a multi-year plan to integrate natives throughout the landscape. Saturday, December 9th @ 9:00 am Backyard Maple Syrup During this introduction to the process of maple syrup creation, learn how to make real maple syrup as we touch briefly on the history of syrup production, discuss tree identification, learn about tree tapping and the collection and processing of sap into syrup. $10 per class / $0 per class (solidarity pricing for those who cannot pay at this time) Registration: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/2023GardeningClasses ========================================= Me and My Guy Cooking Series Saturday, May 13, 2023 11:30 am - 1:30 pm This is an 8-week cooking class series for Male Parents/ Caregiver and their children (3rd-12th Grade)Together you will: prepare, cook, and taste healthy recipes.Each week introduces a new MyPlate food group and cooking techniques.Fun physical activities, discussion of successes and challenges will be shared weekly!Click Here for the Flyer FREE - Pre-registration required. Contact Annemarie to register. Annemarie Stephens, as488@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.273 ========================================= 2023 4-H Dog Program Monday, May 15, 2023 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm CCEOC Education Center & 4-H Park, 300 Finchville Turnpike , Otisville, NY 10963 Enrollment is now open for youth to join Orange County 4-H’s Dog Program! This program is open to all youth interested in dog obedience and grooming and handling.A Dog Program Orientation will be held on Monday, March 20th at 6:30 P.M. at Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County’s Office located at 18 Seward Avenue in Middletown, NY.Attendance is mandatory for all participants and a parent/guardian.The training classes will be held on Mondays at Cornell Cooperative Extension’s Education Center & 4-H Park located at 300 Finchville Turnpike in Otisville, beginning April 3rd. These in-person classes will each run from 6:30 – 8:30 P.M. Youth must be 8 years old by 9/30/22 and not reached their 19th birthday prior to 1/1/23 and working with a dog of at least 6 months of age to participate. Dogs must be vaccinated for rabies. All dogs must be friendly and safely managed on a leash by youth. A copy of the dog’s vaccination records MUST be brought to the orientation with them.Participants must be enrolled in 4-H.  If you are not registered, please register online at: cceorangecounty4h.wildapricot.org. Be sure to fill out the Release Package as well as enrollment.The deadline to register is March 17. IMPORTANT NOTE: These classes are designed as a youth development experience for children, not as a place just to get your dog trained. Dogs need to be controlled by the youth, i.e., a 130 lb. strong dog and a 60 lb. kid will probably not work out. $30/ Youth Carol McLaughlin, cm798@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.243 Registration: https://cceorangecounty4h.wildapricot.org/event-5149861/Registration ========================================= Let's Cook Together Spring Series 2023 Wednesday, May 17, 2023 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm Let's Cook Together!This is an 8-week cooking class series for parents/caregivers and children, in grades 3-12.Together you will: Prepare healthy recipes that your kids will loveLearn tips on how to save time & money when shopping and planning mealsThere is no cost and classes will be held at CCE Orange County's office located at:18 Seward Avenue (third floor) Middletown, NY 10940.To be put on the wait list for the next series,Contact Annemarie to register by calling 845-344-1234 Extension 273.Click HERE for the flyer. FREE Annemarie Stephens, as488@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.273 ========================================= Gardening Questions Answered - 2023 Third Thursday Series Thursday, May 18, 2023 12:00 pm - 12:30 pm Online Event Join us every month on the third Thursday at noon as we answer your gardening questions. Each month we will focus on a specific topic. Pick and choose the topics that interest you. If you have any questions, you can submit them using this form. Photos are much appreciated. If you can't think of any question now, you can always use this form to submit questions later. You will receive a Zoom Link the week before each session for which you are registered. Don't worry if you can't make it, we will send out a link to the recording after each session. We will also post the recordings on our website. Gardening Questions Answered Date  Time Topic Thursday, January 19th 12:00 pm Winter Damage on Plants Thursday, February 16th 12:00 pm Soil Testing for Home Gardeners Thursday, March 16th 12:00 pm Tree Care Thursday, April 20th 12:00 pm Pests of Ornamentals Thursday, May 18th 12:00 pm Beneficial Insects in the Garden Thursday, June 15th 12:00 pm Invasive Plants Thursday, July 20th 12:00 pm Pests in your Vegetable Garden Thursday, August 17th 12:00 pm Invasive Insects & other Invertebrates Thursday, September 21st 12:00 pm Growing Fruit in your Backyard Thursday, October 19th 12:00 pm Home Invaders: Managing Overwintering Insects in your Home Thursday, November 16th 12:00 pm Care for Evergreen Shrubs & Trees Thursday, December 21st 12:00 pm Houseplants Free Susan M. D'Egidio, smd348@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.240 Registration: https://cornell.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9mcyeqAsPgLTqR0 ========================================= Climate Stewards Training Program: Application Thursday, May 18, 2023 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm Online Event Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County (CCEOC) is undergoing its first 12-module training this spring. This effort will equip participants to act to address climate change in their communities through educational outreach and steward-led climate smart projects. Volunteer participants who complete this program will be supported in outreach efforts to help educate the public about the science of climate change and engage communities in mitigation and adaptation efforts.Application Information: Cornell Climate Stewards in Orange County commit to a 12 week training (24 hours of training that spans 15 weeks). The program in Orange County will be offered for $75.00 (financial assistance is available). Upon completion of the training, Cornell Climate Stewards are expected to independently implement climate actions or projects in their community, volunteering at least 40 hours to become a certified "Cornell Climate Steward". They will become official Orange County CCE volunteers and may work with CCE staff on climate-based events and programs.Cornell Climate Stewards trainee selection is based on an applicant’s ability to attend the training sessions as well as their demonstrated interest in working with their municipality on climate related projects. There is no fee to apply, the $75 course fee will only be charged if your application is approved.After applications are received, candidates will be contacted for a short interview.Click here to apply About The Course In each of the first 10 trainings, trainees will cover a specific climate change topic, with additional outside readings, videos and group activities designed to develop skills needed to lead and educate their communities in climate science, adaption, and mitigation. Throughout the course, trainees will design an individual or group community action project that they will present and discuss in the final two class sessions. This program’s curriculum was developed by Cornell University in partnership with CCE-Tompkins.Class Schedule:All classes are held Thursdays starting March 23 through June 8, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.Module 1: OrientationModule 2: The Science of Climate ChangeModule 3: Climate Change ImpactsModule 4: Working with Local Governments & CommunitiesModule 5: Climate Change MitigationModule 6: Community Mitigation StrategiesModule 7: Climate Change AdaptationModule 8: Community Adaptation Strategies Module 9: Effective Climate Change CommunicationModule 10: Planning Your Local Action Project Presentation & Discussion Presentation & DiscussionClick here for more information on our Climate Stewards program. $75, upon application approval Erik Schellenberg, jk2642@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.260 Registration: https://cornell.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_2b0ehw5RS6itGWa ========================================= Strengthening Families Program - Spring 2023 Thursday, May 18, 2023 6:00 pm - 8:30 pm Newburgh Armory Unity Center, 321 S Willam Street , Newburgh, NY 12550 For Parents/Caregivers and Youth who are 10-14 years old to attend together!This fun, unique 7 session program allows adults and their youth to build upon their strengths, enhance relationship and communication skills, practice peer pressure resistance skills and learn how to work through critical teen issues together. This program includes FREE childcare for children ages 3-9 years old.“The program was very helpful and directly applicable for parents. I will use what I learned for the rest of my children’s lives.”– Participating parentThis program is fully covered by a generous grant from the Orange County Youth Bureau, so this program is FREE FOR ALL FAMILIES.Click here for the Flyer. Click Here to Register. No fee but registration is required and limited. Julika von Stackelberg, jv426@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.274 ========================================= Create a Hypertufa Planter 2023 Saturday, May 20, 2023 10:00 am - 12:00 pm Education Center & 4-H Park, 300 Finchville Turnpike , Otisville, New York 10963 Old stone containers make wonderful planters, but they are heavy (and difficult to find)! Hypertufa is a lighter weight man-made, stone-like material created from natural materials that can be fashioned into all sorts of containers and objects. In this class, you will make a hypertufa planter to take home with you. You will also be given instructions on how to prepare the correct soil mixture for this special type of planter, and we will show you what kind of plants will thrive in your hypertufa planter once it is “cured.” Please wear old work clothes and bring waterproof garden gloves to use when mixing and handling cement. You must be able to work standing up. We recommend you bring a tarp, large plastic bag, or large cardboard box to use for transporting you hypertufa planter home.Registration closes: Friday, May 12th. Registration is limited to the first 25 people.Fee: $35 per person, includes materials to make one hypertufa planter $35 Susan M. D'Egidio, smd348@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.240 Registration: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/2023CreateaHypertufaPlanter ========================================= Me and My Guy Cooking Series Saturday, May 20, 2023 11:30 am - 1:30 pm This is an 8-week cooking class series for Male Parents/ Caregiver and their children (3rd-12th Grade)Together you will: prepare, cook, and taste healthy recipes.Each week introduces a new MyPlate food group and cooking techniques.Fun physical activities, discussion of successes and challenges will be shared weekly!Click Here for the Flyer FREE - Pre-registration required. Contact Annemarie to register. Annemarie Stephens, as488@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.273 ========================================= 2023 4-H Dog Program Monday, May 22, 2023 12:00 pm - 12:00 pm CCEOC Education Center & 4-H Park, 300 Finchville Turnpike , Otisville, NY 10963 Enrollment is now open for youth to join Orange County 4-H’s Dog Program! This program is open to all youth interested in dog obedience and grooming and handling.A Dog Program Orientation will be held on Monday, March 20th at 6:30 P.M. at Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County’s Office located at 18 Seward Avenue in Middletown, NY.Attendance is mandatory for all participants and a parent/guardian.The training classes will be held on Mondays at Cornell Cooperative Extension’s Education Center & 4-H Park located at 300 Finchville Turnpike in Otisville, beginning April 3rd. These in-person classes will each run from 6:30 – 8:30 P.M. Youth must be 8 years old by 9/30/22 and not reached their 19th birthday prior to 1/1/23 and working with a dog of at least 6 months of age to participate. Dogs must be vaccinated for rabies. All dogs must be friendly and safely managed on a leash by youth. A copy of the dog’s vaccination records MUST be brought to the orientation with them.Participants must be enrolled in 4-H.  If you are not registered, please register online at: cceorangecounty4h.wildapricot.org. Be sure to fill out the Release Package as well as enrollment.The deadline to register is March 17. IMPORTANT NOTE: These classes are designed as a youth development experience for children, not as a place just to get your dog trained. Dogs need to be controlled by the youth, i.e., a 130 lb. strong dog and a 60 lb. kid will probably not work out. $30/ Youth Carol McLaughlin, cm798@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.243 Registration: https://cceorangecounty4h.wildapricot.org/event-5149861/Registration ========================================= Let's Cook Together Spring Series 2023 Wednesday, May 24, 2023 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm Let's Cook Together!This is an 8-week cooking class series for parents/caregivers and children, in grades 3-12.Together you will: Prepare healthy recipes that your kids will loveLearn tips on how to save time & money when shopping and planning mealsThere is no cost and classes will be held at CCE Orange County's office located at:18 Seward Avenue (third floor) Middletown, NY 10940.To be put on the wait list for the next series,Contact Annemarie to register by calling 845-344-1234 Extension 273.Click HERE for the flyer. FREE Annemarie Stephens, as488@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.273 ========================================= Climate Stewards Training Program: Application Thursday, May 25, 2023 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm Online Event Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County (CCEOC) is undergoing its first 12-module training this spring. This effort will equip participants to act to address climate change in their communities through educational outreach and steward-led climate smart projects. Volunteer participants who complete this program will be supported in outreach efforts to help educate the public about the science of climate change and engage communities in mitigation and adaptation efforts.Application Information: Cornell Climate Stewards in Orange County commit to a 12 week training (24 hours of training that spans 15 weeks). The program in Orange County will be offered for $75.00 (financial assistance is available). Upon completion of the training, Cornell Climate Stewards are expected to independently implement climate actions or projects in their community, volunteering at least 40 hours to become a certified "Cornell Climate Steward". They will become official Orange County CCE volunteers and may work with CCE staff on climate-based events and programs.Cornell Climate Stewards trainee selection is based on an applicant’s ability to attend the training sessions as well as their demonstrated interest in working with their municipality on climate related projects. There is no fee to apply, the $75 course fee will only be charged if your application is approved.After applications are received, candidates will be contacted for a short interview.Click here to apply About The Course In each of the first 10 trainings, trainees will cover a specific climate change topic, with additional outside readings, videos and group activities designed to develop skills needed to lead and educate their communities in climate science, adaption, and mitigation. Throughout the course, trainees will design an individual or group community action project that they will present and discuss in the final two class sessions. This program’s curriculum was developed by Cornell University in partnership with CCE-Tompkins.Class Schedule:All classes are held Thursdays starting March 23 through June 8, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.Module 1: OrientationModule 2: The Science of Climate ChangeModule 3: Climate Change ImpactsModule 4: Working with Local Governments & CommunitiesModule 5: Climate Change MitigationModule 6: Community Mitigation StrategiesModule 7: Climate Change AdaptationModule 8: Community Adaptation Strategies Module 9: Effective Climate Change CommunicationModule 10: Planning Your Local Action Project Presentation & Discussion Presentation & DiscussionClick here for more information on our Climate Stewards program. $75, upon application approval Erik Schellenberg, jk2642@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.260 Registration: https://cornell.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_2b0ehw5RS6itGWa ========================================= Strengthening Families Program - Spring 2023 Thursday, May 25, 2023 6:00 pm - 8:30 pm Newburgh Armory Unity Center, 321 S Willam Street , Newburgh, NY 12550 For Parents/Caregivers and Youth who are 10-14 years old to attend together!This fun, unique 7 session program allows adults and their youth to build upon their strengths, enhance relationship and communication skills, practice peer pressure resistance skills and learn how to work through critical teen issues together. This program includes FREE childcare for children ages 3-9 years old.“The program was very helpful and directly applicable for parents. I will use what I learned for the rest of my children’s lives.”– Participating parentThis program is fully covered by a generous grant from the Orange County Youth Bureau, so this program is FREE FOR ALL FAMILIES.Click here for the Flyer. Click Here to Register. No fee but registration is required and limited. Julika von Stackelberg, jv426@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.274 ========================================= Me and My Guy Cooking Series Saturday, May 27, 2023 11:30 am - 1:30 pm This is an 8-week cooking class series for Male Parents/ Caregiver and their children (3rd-12th Grade)Together you will: prepare, cook, and taste healthy recipes.Each week introduces a new MyPlate food group and cooking techniques.Fun physical activities, discussion of successes and challenges will be shared weekly!Click Here for the Flyer FREE - Pre-registration required. Contact Annemarie to register. Annemarie Stephens, as488@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.273 ========================================= Let's Cook Together Spring Series 2023 Wednesday, May 31, 2023 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm Let's Cook Together!This is an 8-week cooking class series for parents/caregivers and children, in grades 3-12.Together you will: Prepare healthy recipes that your kids will loveLearn tips on how to save time & money when shopping and planning mealsThere is no cost and classes will be held at CCE Orange County's office located at:18 Seward Avenue (third floor) Middletown, NY 10940.To be put on the wait list for the next series,Contact Annemarie to register by calling 845-344-1234 Extension 273.Click HERE for the flyer. FREE Annemarie Stephens, as488@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.273 ========================================= Climate Stewards Training Program: Application Thursday, June 1, 2023 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm Online Event Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County (CCEOC) is undergoing its first 12-module training this spring. This effort will equip participants to act to address climate change in their communities through educational outreach and steward-led climate smart projects. Volunteer participants who complete this program will be supported in outreach efforts to help educate the public about the science of climate change and engage communities in mitigation and adaptation efforts.Application Information: Cornell Climate Stewards in Orange County commit to a 12 week training (24 hours of training that spans 15 weeks). The program in Orange County will be offered for $75.00 (financial assistance is available). Upon completion of the training, Cornell Climate Stewards are expected to independently implement climate actions or projects in their community, volunteering at least 40 hours to become a certified "Cornell Climate Steward". They will become official Orange County CCE volunteers and may work with CCE staff on climate-based events and programs.Cornell Climate Stewards trainee selection is based on an applicant’s ability to attend the training sessions as well as their demonstrated interest in working with their municipality on climate related projects. There is no fee to apply, the $75 course fee will only be charged if your application is approved.After applications are received, candidates will be contacted for a short interview.Click here to apply About The Course In each of the first 10 trainings, trainees will cover a specific climate change topic, with additional outside readings, videos and group activities designed to develop skills needed to lead and educate their communities in climate science, adaption, and mitigation. Throughout the course, trainees will design an individual or group community action project that they will present and discuss in the final two class sessions. This program’s curriculum was developed by Cornell University in partnership with CCE-Tompkins.Class Schedule:All classes are held Thursdays starting March 23 through June 8, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.Module 1: OrientationModule 2: The Science of Climate ChangeModule 3: Climate Change ImpactsModule 4: Working with Local Governments & CommunitiesModule 5: Climate Change MitigationModule 6: Community Mitigation StrategiesModule 7: Climate Change AdaptationModule 8: Community Adaptation Strategies Module 9: Effective Climate Change CommunicationModule 10: Planning Your Local Action Project Presentation & Discussion Presentation & DiscussionClick here for more information on our Climate Stewards program. $75, upon application approval Erik Schellenberg, jk2642@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.260 Registration: https://cornell.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_2b0ehw5RS6itGWa ========================================= Me and My Guy Cooking Series Saturday, June 3, 2023 11:30 am - 1:30 pm This is an 8-week cooking class series for Male Parents/ Caregiver and their children (3rd-12th Grade)Together you will: prepare, cook, and taste healthy recipes.Each week introduces a new MyPlate food group and cooking techniques.Fun physical activities, discussion of successes and challenges will be shared weekly!Click Here for the Flyer FREE - Pre-registration required. Contact Annemarie to register. Annemarie Stephens, as488@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.273 ========================================= 2023 4-H Dog Program Monday, June 5, 2023 12:00 pm - 12:00 pm CCEOC Education Center & 4-H Park, 300 Finchville Turnpike , Otisville, NY 10963 Enrollment is now open for youth to join Orange County 4-H’s Dog Program! This program is open to all youth interested in dog obedience and grooming and handling.A Dog Program Orientation will be held on Monday, March 20th at 6:30 P.M. at Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County’s Office located at 18 Seward Avenue in Middletown, NY.Attendance is mandatory for all participants and a parent/guardian.The training classes will be held on Mondays at Cornell Cooperative Extension’s Education Center & 4-H Park located at 300 Finchville Turnpike in Otisville, beginning April 3rd. These in-person classes will each run from 6:30 – 8:30 P.M. Youth must be 8 years old by 9/30/22 and not reached their 19th birthday prior to 1/1/23 and working with a dog of at least 6 months of age to participate. Dogs must be vaccinated for rabies. All dogs must be friendly and safely managed on a leash by youth. A copy of the dog’s vaccination records MUST be brought to the orientation with them.Participants must be enrolled in 4-H.  If you are not registered, please register online at: cceorangecounty4h.wildapricot.org. Be sure to fill out the Release Package as well as enrollment.The deadline to register is March 17. IMPORTANT NOTE: These classes are designed as a youth development experience for children, not as a place just to get your dog trained. Dogs need to be controlled by the youth, i.e., a 130 lb. strong dog and a 60 lb. kid will probably not work out. $30/ Youth Carol McLaughlin, cm798@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.243 Registration: https://cceorangecounty4h.wildapricot.org/event-5149861/Registration ========================================= 4-H STEM Explorers Thursday, June 8, 2023 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County, 18 Seward Avenue Suite 300 (third floor), Middletown, New York 10940 4-H aims to grow the next generation of inventors, entrepreneurs and problem-solvers by giving youth plenty of opportunities to try their hands at real world science 4-H Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) projects give families science enrichment opportunities and connects kids to Cornell’s science outreach programs.STEM Explorers Is a combination of STEM Leaders & Nature Explorers. The program consists of bi-monthly meetings that offer youth a chance to explore various avenues in STEM.Click Here for Flier Carol McLaughlin, cm798@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.243 Registration: https://pub.cce.cornell.edu/event_registration/main/events_landing.cfm?event=4-H_STEM_Explorers_233 ========================================= Climate Stewards Training Program: Application Thursday, June 8, 2023 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm Online Event Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County (CCEOC) is undergoing its first 12-module training this spring. This effort will equip participants to act to address climate change in their communities through educational outreach and steward-led climate smart projects. Volunteer participants who complete this program will be supported in outreach efforts to help educate the public about the science of climate change and engage communities in mitigation and adaptation efforts.Application Information: Cornell Climate Stewards in Orange County commit to a 12 week training (24 hours of training that spans 15 weeks). The program in Orange County will be offered for $75.00 (financial assistance is available). Upon completion of the training, Cornell Climate Stewards are expected to independently implement climate actions or projects in their community, volunteering at least 40 hours to become a certified "Cornell Climate Steward". They will become official Orange County CCE volunteers and may work with CCE staff on climate-based events and programs.Cornell Climate Stewards trainee selection is based on an applicant’s ability to attend the training sessions as well as their demonstrated interest in working with their municipality on climate related projects. There is no fee to apply, the $75 course fee will only be charged if your application is approved.After applications are received, candidates will be contacted for a short interview.Click here to apply About The Course In each of the first 10 trainings, trainees will cover a specific climate change topic, with additional outside readings, videos and group activities designed to develop skills needed to lead and educate their communities in climate science, adaption, and mitigation. Throughout the course, trainees will design an individual or group community action project that they will present and discuss in the final two class sessions. This program’s curriculum was developed by Cornell University in partnership with CCE-Tompkins.Class Schedule:All classes are held Thursdays starting March 23 through June 8, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.Module 1: OrientationModule 2: The Science of Climate ChangeModule 3: Climate Change ImpactsModule 4: Working with Local Governments & CommunitiesModule 5: Climate Change MitigationModule 6: Community Mitigation StrategiesModule 7: Climate Change AdaptationModule 8: Community Adaptation Strategies Module 9: Effective Climate Change CommunicationModule 10: Planning Your Local Action Project Presentation & Discussion Presentation & DiscussionClick here for more information on our Climate Stewards program. $75, upon application approval Erik Schellenberg, jk2642@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.260 Registration: https://cornell.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_2b0ehw5RS6itGWa ========================================= 2023 Gardening Classes Saturday, June 10, 2023 9:00 am - 10:30 am Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County, 18 Seward Avenue Suite 300 (third floor), Middletown, New York 10940 Join us for our 2023 Gardening Classes! Taught by our Master Gardener Volunteers these classes will be held on the 2nd Saturday of the month @ 9:00 am. (Note that there are two classes in March, the 2nd and 4th Saturdays, and no class in April or July.)  Sign-up for as many classes as you would like.2023 Gardening Classes Date and Time Topic Description Saturday, January 14th @ 9:00 am Landscaping for New Homeowners When moving into a new home, figuring out what to do with the landscaping can be quite overwhelming. This class will take you through the process starting with assessing everything in your yard, both the hardscaping — sidewalks, patios, driveways — and the softscaping — flowers, shrubs, tree, lawn. We will then discuss how to create a long-range plan for your yard and how to start making changes. In the event of inclement weather, this class will be held virtually via Zoom. Saturday, February 11th @ 9:00 am Shiitake Mushroom Cultivation Learn about the history, benefits, and proven best practices for growing Shiitake mushrooms on logs at home or for small scale commercial use. In the event of inclement weather, this class will be held virtually via Zoom. Saturday, March 11th @ 9:00 am Pruning Pruning is easy when you can identify how a plant grows, understand the purpose of pruning, and know proven pruning techniques. This class is designed to provide a solid base in the science and practice of selective pruning so you can enhance the beauty and vigor of your shrubs and trees. Saturday, March 25th @ 9:00 am Home Composting Not sure what to do with your kitchen, garden, and yard scraps? Would you like to start composting at home? Come learn the basics of home composting including what, where, and how to compost. We also will provide proven suggestions for your home compost bin design and discuss vermicomposting (composting with worms). Saturday, May 13th @ 9:00 am Vegetable Gardening During this class you will learn all about vegetable gardening from deciding where to put your garden to when to harvest your bounty. You will also learn about numerous crops that grow well in our area, how and when to plant them, and how to care for your garden throughout the year. Saturday, June 10th @ 9:00 am Container Gardening Whether you are looking to grow vegetables and herbs, create a beautiful living screen, or just beautify your home, this class will help you get your container gardens off to a great start. Learn how to choose your containers, select and arrange plants, and maintain your containers so they look fabulous throughout the garden season. Saturday, August 12th @ 9:00 am Lawncare for Homeowners When is the best time to fertilize your lawn? What variety of grass seed grows best in the shade? How often should you lime your lawn? How do you know if you have a grub problem? Come learn the answers to these questions and more as we discuss how to make your lawn an attractive environmental asset. Saturday, September 9th @ 9:00 am Lawn Elimination and Reduction Picturesque lawns require vast inputs of time, energy, lawn care products, and water, but offer little wildlife habitat or food for people. This program will cover the basics of lawn reduction or elimination for the homeowner. We will discuss your goals, budgeting time and money, site assessment and site preparation, as well as the selection of appropriate plant material, including tips for establishing a wildflower meadow. Saturday, October 14th @ 9:00 am Putting the Garden to Bed Preparing a garden for overwintering is an art and a science. Removing dead leaves from some plants is healthy; others require them for winter protection. Many species, though dead, contribute food and form and creature protection; others benefit from wrapping against harsh winds and hungry deer. Learn the basics and apply them to your own garden. Saturday, November 11th @ 9:00 am Integrating  Native Plants in Your Garden Native plants can enhance your garden by adding structure, color, and texture, as well as food for native fauna such as pollinators and birds. During this class we will explore plants native to our region and how you can successfully integrate them into your current gardens transforming them into beautiful native sanctuaries. Participants are encouraged to bring photos, site plans, and plant lists from their current gardens. After a short presentation we will work together to develop a multi-year plan to integrate natives throughout the landscape. Saturday, December 9th @ 9:00 am Backyard Maple Syrup During this introduction to the process of maple syrup creation, learn how to make real maple syrup as we touch briefly on the history of syrup production, discuss tree identification, learn about tree tapping and the collection and processing of sap into syrup. $10 per class / $0 per class (solidarity pricing for those who cannot pay at this time) Registration: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/2023GardeningClasses ========================================= 2023 4-H Dog Program Monday, June 12, 2023 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm CCEOC Education Center & 4-H Park, 300 Finchville Turnpike , Otisville, NY 10963 Enrollment is now open for youth to join Orange County 4-H’s Dog Program! This program is open to all youth interested in dog obedience and grooming and handling.A Dog Program Orientation will be held on Monday, March 20th at 6:30 P.M. at Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County’s Office located at 18 Seward Avenue in Middletown, NY.Attendance is mandatory for all participants and a parent/guardian.The training classes will be held on Mondays at Cornell Cooperative Extension’s Education Center & 4-H Park located at 300 Finchville Turnpike in Otisville, beginning April 3rd. These in-person classes will each run from 6:30 – 8:30 P.M. Youth must be 8 years old by 9/30/22 and not reached their 19th birthday prior to 1/1/23 and working with a dog of at least 6 months of age to participate. Dogs must be vaccinated for rabies. All dogs must be friendly and safely managed on a leash by youth. A copy of the dog’s vaccination records MUST be brought to the orientation with them.Participants must be enrolled in 4-H.  If you are not registered, please register online at: cceorangecounty4h.wildapricot.org. Be sure to fill out the Release Package as well as enrollment.The deadline to register is March 17. IMPORTANT NOTE: These classes are designed as a youth development experience for children, not as a place just to get your dog trained. Dogs need to be controlled by the youth, i.e., a 130 lb. strong dog and a 60 lb. kid will probably not work out. $30/ Youth Carol McLaughlin, cm798@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.243 Registration: https://cceorangecounty4h.wildapricot.org/event-5149861/Registration ========================================= Gardening Questions Answered - 2023 Third Thursday Series Thursday, June 15, 2023 12:00 pm - 12:30 pm Online Event Join us every month on the third Thursday at noon as we answer your gardening questions. Each month we will focus on a specific topic. Pick and choose the topics that interest you. If you have any questions, you can submit them using this form. Photos are much appreciated. If you can't think of any question now, you can always use this form to submit questions later. You will receive a Zoom Link the week before each session for which you are registered. Don't worry if you can't make it, we will send out a link to the recording after each session. We will also post the recordings on our website. Gardening Questions Answered Date  Time Topic Thursday, January 19th 12:00 pm Winter Damage on Plants Thursday, February 16th 12:00 pm Soil Testing for Home Gardeners Thursday, March 16th 12:00 pm Tree Care Thursday, April 20th 12:00 pm Pests of Ornamentals Thursday, May 18th 12:00 pm Beneficial Insects in the Garden Thursday, June 15th 12:00 pm Invasive Plants Thursday, July 20th 12:00 pm Pests in your Vegetable Garden Thursday, August 17th 12:00 pm Invasive Insects & other Invertebrates Thursday, September 21st 12:00 pm Growing Fruit in your Backyard Thursday, October 19th 12:00 pm Home Invaders: Managing Overwintering Insects in your Home Thursday, November 16th 12:00 pm Care for Evergreen Shrubs & Trees Thursday, December 21st 12:00 pm Houseplants Free Susan M. D'Egidio, smd348@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.240 Registration: https://cornell.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9mcyeqAsPgLTqR0 ========================================= Creative Leaf Casting 2023 Saturday, June 17, 2023 10:00 am - 12:00 pm Education Center & 4-H Park, 300 Finchville Turnpike , Otisville, New York 10963 Let’s get creative! During this 2-part class we will explore the wonderful texture and scale of various leaves when they are cast in cement. Beginner and experienced leaf casters are welcome. All materials are supplied, but participants are welcome to bring their favorite leaves for the project. Please wear old work clothes and shoes for mixing cement. Registration closes: Friday, June 9th. Registration is limited to the first 25 people.Fee: $35 per person, includes all materials to make a leaf cast $35 Susan M. D'Egidio, smd348@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.240 Registration: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/2023CreateLeafCasting ========================================= 2023 4-H Dog Program Monday, June 19, 2023 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm CCEOC Education Center & 4-H Park, 300 Finchville Turnpike , Otisville, NY 10963 Enrollment is now open for youth to join Orange County 4-H’s Dog Program! This program is open to all youth interested in dog obedience and grooming and handling.A Dog Program Orientation will be held on Monday, March 20th at 6:30 P.M. at Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County’s Office located at 18 Seward Avenue in Middletown, NY.Attendance is mandatory for all participants and a parent/guardian.The training classes will be held on Mondays at Cornell Cooperative Extension’s Education Center & 4-H Park located at 300 Finchville Turnpike in Otisville, beginning April 3rd. These in-person classes will each run from 6:30 – 8:30 P.M. Youth must be 8 years old by 9/30/22 and not reached their 19th birthday prior to 1/1/23 and working with a dog of at least 6 months of age to participate. Dogs must be vaccinated for rabies. All dogs must be friendly and safely managed on a leash by youth. A copy of the dog’s vaccination records MUST be brought to the orientation with them.Participants must be enrolled in 4-H.  If you are not registered, please register online at: cceorangecounty4h.wildapricot.org. Be sure to fill out the Release Package as well as enrollment.The deadline to register is March 17. IMPORTANT NOTE: These classes are designed as a youth development experience for children, not as a place just to get your dog trained. Dogs need to be controlled by the youth, i.e., a 130 lb. strong dog and a 60 lb. kid will probably not work out. $30/ Youth Carol McLaughlin, cm798@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.243 Registration: https://cceorangecounty4h.wildapricot.org/event-5149861/Registration ========================================= 4-H STEM Explorers Thursday, June 22, 2023 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County, 18 Seward Avenue Suite 300 (third floor), Middletown, New York 10940 4-H aims to grow the next generation of inventors, entrepreneurs and problem-solvers by giving youth plenty of opportunities to try their hands at real world science 4-H Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) projects give families science enrichment opportunities and connects kids to Cornell’s science outreach programs.STEM Explorers Is a combination of STEM Leaders & Nature Explorers. The program consists of bi-monthly meetings that offer youth a chance to explore various avenues in STEM.Click Here for Flier Carol McLaughlin, cm798@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.243 Registration: https://pub.cce.cornell.edu/event_registration/main/events_landing.cfm?event=4-H_STEM_Explorers_233 ========================================= Creative Leaf Casting 2023 Saturday, June 24, 2023 10:00 am - 11:30 am Education Center & 4-H Park, 300 Finchville Turnpike , Otisville, New York 10963 Let’s get creative! During this 2-part class we will explore the wonderful texture and scale of various leaves when they are cast in cement. Beginner and experienced leaf casters are welcome. All materials are supplied, but participants are welcome to bring their favorite leaves for the project. Please wear old work clothes and shoes for mixing cement. Registration closes: Friday, June 9th. Registration is limited to the first 25 people.Fee: $35 per person, includes all materials to make a leaf cast $35 Susan M. D'Egidio, smd348@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.240 Registration: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/2023CreateLeafCasting ========================================= Gardening Questions Answered - 2023 Third Thursday Series Thursday, July 20, 2023 12:00 pm - 12:30 pm Online Event Join us every month on the third Thursday at noon as we answer your gardening questions. Each month we will focus on a specific topic. Pick and choose the topics that interest you. If you have any questions, you can submit them using this form. Photos are much appreciated. If you can't think of any question now, you can always use this form to submit questions later. You will receive a Zoom Link the week before each session for which you are registered. Don't worry if you can't make it, we will send out a link to the recording after each session. We will also post the recordings on our website. Gardening Questions Answered Date  Time Topic Thursday, January 19th 12:00 pm Winter Damage on Plants Thursday, February 16th 12:00 pm Soil Testing for Home Gardeners Thursday, March 16th 12:00 pm Tree Care Thursday, April 20th 12:00 pm Pests of Ornamentals Thursday, May 18th 12:00 pm Beneficial Insects in the Garden Thursday, June 15th 12:00 pm Invasive Plants Thursday, July 20th 12:00 pm Pests in your Vegetable Garden Thursday, August 17th 12:00 pm Invasive Insects & other Invertebrates Thursday, September 21st 12:00 pm Growing Fruit in your Backyard Thursday, October 19th 12:00 pm Home Invaders: Managing Overwintering Insects in your Home Thursday, November 16th 12:00 pm Care for Evergreen Shrubs & Trees Thursday, December 21st 12:00 pm Houseplants Free Susan M. D'Egidio, smd348@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.240 Registration: https://cornell.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9mcyeqAsPgLTqR0 ========================================= Duck Derby 2023 Sunday, July 30, 2023 5:45 pm - 6:45 pm Education Center & 4-H Park, 300 Finchville Turnpike , Otisville, New York 10963 The 9th annual Great Extension Duck Derby will be held at CCE Orange County's Education Center and 4-H Park on Sunday, July 30th during The Country Fair!Ducks will be released promptly at 5:55 P.M., so be sure to arrive on time, as you do not want to miss this exciting race! Please remember that when you purchase a Duck Derby ticket, you are sponsoring a rubber duck which will then be entered into the race for your chance to win one of our prizes!If you would like to help sell tickets or purchase tickets to enter ducks into the race, please contact Jill at 845-344-1234.Ducks are sponsored at $5 a piece or five ducks for $20. Don’t miss out on racing your ducks down the “4-H Dream Stream and Waddling Waters”. All proceeds support our Education Center & 4-H Park. Prizes are given to the 5 fastest ducks ($500 for 1st place), and there is even a prize for the “Lame Duck” – last place! Please support this terrific event!Interested in sponsoring this event? Click here for options! Jill Van Aken, Jd863@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.261 ========================================= 2023 Gardening Classes Saturday, August 12, 2023 9:00 am - 10:30 am Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County, 18 Seward Avenue Suite 300 (third floor), Middletown, New York 10940 Join us for our 2023 Gardening Classes! Taught by our Master Gardener Volunteers these classes will be held on the 2nd Saturday of the month @ 9:00 am. (Note that there are two classes in March, the 2nd and 4th Saturdays, and no class in April or July.)  Sign-up for as many classes as you would like.2023 Gardening Classes Date and Time Topic Description Saturday, January 14th @ 9:00 am Landscaping for New Homeowners When moving into a new home, figuring out what to do with the landscaping can be quite overwhelming. This class will take you through the process starting with assessing everything in your yard, both the hardscaping — sidewalks, patios, driveways — and the softscaping — flowers, shrubs, tree, lawn. We will then discuss how to create a long-range plan for your yard and how to start making changes. In the event of inclement weather, this class will be held virtually via Zoom. Saturday, February 11th @ 9:00 am Shiitake Mushroom Cultivation Learn about the history, benefits, and proven best practices for growing Shiitake mushrooms on logs at home or for small scale commercial use. In the event of inclement weather, this class will be held virtually via Zoom. Saturday, March 11th @ 9:00 am Pruning Pruning is easy when you can identify how a plant grows, understand the purpose of pruning, and know proven pruning techniques. This class is designed to provide a solid base in the science and practice of selective pruning so you can enhance the beauty and vigor of your shrubs and trees. Saturday, March 25th @ 9:00 am Home Composting Not sure what to do with your kitchen, garden, and yard scraps? Would you like to start composting at home? Come learn the basics of home composting including what, where, and how to compost. We also will provide proven suggestions for your home compost bin design and discuss vermicomposting (composting with worms). Saturday, May 13th @ 9:00 am Vegetable Gardening During this class you will learn all about vegetable gardening from deciding where to put your garden to when to harvest your bounty. You will also learn about numerous crops that grow well in our area, how and when to plant them, and how to care for your garden throughout the year. Saturday, June 10th @ 9:00 am Container Gardening Whether you are looking to grow vegetables and herbs, create a beautiful living screen, or just beautify your home, this class will help you get your container gardens off to a great start. Learn how to choose your containers, select and arrange plants, and maintain your containers so they look fabulous throughout the garden season. Saturday, August 12th @ 9:00 am Lawncare for Homeowners When is the best time to fertilize your lawn? What variety of grass seed grows best in the shade? How often should you lime your lawn? How do you know if you have a grub problem? Come learn the answers to these questions and more as we discuss how to make your lawn an attractive environmental asset. Saturday, September 9th @ 9:00 am Lawn Elimination and Reduction Picturesque lawns require vast inputs of time, energy, lawn care products, and water, but offer little wildlife habitat or food for people. This program will cover the basics of lawn reduction or elimination for the homeowner. We will discuss your goals, budgeting time and money, site assessment and site preparation, as well as the selection of appropriate plant material, including tips for establishing a wildflower meadow. Saturday, October 14th @ 9:00 am Putting the Garden to Bed Preparing a garden for overwintering is an art and a science. Removing dead leaves from some plants is healthy; others require them for winter protection. Many species, though dead, contribute food and form and creature protection; others benefit from wrapping against harsh winds and hungry deer. Learn the basics and apply them to your own garden. Saturday, November 11th @ 9:00 am Integrating  Native Plants in Your Garden Native plants can enhance your garden by adding structure, color, and texture, as well as food for native fauna such as pollinators and birds. During this class we will explore plants native to our region and how you can successfully integrate them into your current gardens transforming them into beautiful native sanctuaries. Participants are encouraged to bring photos, site plans, and plant lists from their current gardens. After a short presentation we will work together to develop a multi-year plan to integrate natives throughout the landscape. Saturday, December 9th @ 9:00 am Backyard Maple Syrup During this introduction to the process of maple syrup creation, learn how to make real maple syrup as we touch briefly on the history of syrup production, discuss tree identification, learn about tree tapping and the collection and processing of sap into syrup. $10 per class / $0 per class (solidarity pricing for those who cannot pay at this time) Registration: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/2023GardeningClasses ========================================= Gardening Questions Answered - 2023 Third Thursday Series Thursday, August 17, 2023 12:00 pm - 12:30 pm Online Event Join us every month on the third Thursday at noon as we answer your gardening questions. Each month we will focus on a specific topic. Pick and choose the topics that interest you. If you have any questions, you can submit them using this form. Photos are much appreciated. If you can't think of any question now, you can always use this form to submit questions later. You will receive a Zoom Link the week before each session for which you are registered. Don't worry if you can't make it, we will send out a link to the recording after each session. We will also post the recordings on our website. Gardening Questions Answered Date  Time Topic Thursday, January 19th 12:00 pm Winter Damage on Plants Thursday, February 16th 12:00 pm Soil Testing for Home Gardeners Thursday, March 16th 12:00 pm Tree Care Thursday, April 20th 12:00 pm Pests of Ornamentals Thursday, May 18th 12:00 pm Beneficial Insects in the Garden Thursday, June 15th 12:00 pm Invasive Plants Thursday, July 20th 12:00 pm Pests in your Vegetable Garden Thursday, August 17th 12:00 pm Invasive Insects & other Invertebrates Thursday, September 21st 12:00 pm Growing Fruit in your Backyard Thursday, October 19th 12:00 pm Home Invaders: Managing Overwintering Insects in your Home Thursday, November 16th 12:00 pm Care for Evergreen Shrubs & Trees Thursday, December 21st 12:00 pm Houseplants Free Susan M. D'Egidio, smd348@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.240 Registration: https://cornell.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9mcyeqAsPgLTqR0 ========================================= 2023 Gardening Classes Saturday, September 9, 2023 9:00 am - 11:00 am Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County, 18 Seward Avenue Suite 300 (third floor), Middletown, New York 10940 Join us for our 2023 Gardening Classes! Taught by our Master Gardener Volunteers these classes will be held on the 2nd Saturday of the month @ 9:00 am. (Note that there are two classes in March, the 2nd and 4th Saturdays, and no class in April or July.)  Sign-up for as many classes as you would like.2023 Gardening Classes Date and Time Topic Description Saturday, January 14th @ 9:00 am Landscaping for New Homeowners When moving into a new home, figuring out what to do with the landscaping can be quite overwhelming. This class will take you through the process starting with assessing everything in your yard, both the hardscaping — sidewalks, patios, driveways — and the softscaping — flowers, shrubs, tree, lawn. We will then discuss how to create a long-range plan for your yard and how to start making changes. In the event of inclement weather, this class will be held virtually via Zoom. Saturday, February 11th @ 9:00 am Shiitake Mushroom Cultivation Learn about the history, benefits, and proven best practices for growing Shiitake mushrooms on logs at home or for small scale commercial use. In the event of inclement weather, this class will be held virtually via Zoom. Saturday, March 11th @ 9:00 am Pruning Pruning is easy when you can identify how a plant grows, understand the purpose of pruning, and know proven pruning techniques. This class is designed to provide a solid base in the science and practice of selective pruning so you can enhance the beauty and vigor of your shrubs and trees. Saturday, March 25th @ 9:00 am Home Composting Not sure what to do with your kitchen, garden, and yard scraps? Would you like to start composting at home? Come learn the basics of home composting including what, where, and how to compost. We also will provide proven suggestions for your home compost bin design and discuss vermicomposting (composting with worms). Saturday, May 13th @ 9:00 am Vegetable Gardening During this class you will learn all about vegetable gardening from deciding where to put your garden to when to harvest your bounty. You will also learn about numerous crops that grow well in our area, how and when to plant them, and how to care for your garden throughout the year. Saturday, June 10th @ 9:00 am Container Gardening Whether you are looking to grow vegetables and herbs, create a beautiful living screen, or just beautify your home, this class will help you get your container gardens off to a great start. Learn how to choose your containers, select and arrange plants, and maintain your containers so they look fabulous throughout the garden season. Saturday, August 12th @ 9:00 am Lawncare for Homeowners When is the best time to fertilize your lawn? What variety of grass seed grows best in the shade? How often should you lime your lawn? How do you know if you have a grub problem? Come learn the answers to these questions and more as we discuss how to make your lawn an attractive environmental asset. Saturday, September 9th @ 9:00 am Lawn Elimination and Reduction Picturesque lawns require vast inputs of time, energy, lawn care products, and water, but offer little wildlife habitat or food for people. This program will cover the basics of lawn reduction or elimination for the homeowner. We will discuss your goals, budgeting time and money, site assessment and site preparation, as well as the selection of appropriate plant material, including tips for establishing a wildflower meadow. Saturday, October 14th @ 9:00 am Putting the Garden to Bed Preparing a garden for overwintering is an art and a science. Removing dead leaves from some plants is healthy; others require them for winter protection. Many species, though dead, contribute food and form and creature protection; others benefit from wrapping against harsh winds and hungry deer. Learn the basics and apply them to your own garden. Saturday, November 11th @ 9:00 am Integrating  Native Plants in Your Garden Native plants can enhance your garden by adding structure, color, and texture, as well as food for native fauna such as pollinators and birds. During this class we will explore plants native to our region and how you can successfully integrate them into your current gardens transforming them into beautiful native sanctuaries. Participants are encouraged to bring photos, site plans, and plant lists from their current gardens. After a short presentation we will work together to develop a multi-year plan to integrate natives throughout the landscape. Saturday, December 9th @ 9:00 am Backyard Maple Syrup During this introduction to the process of maple syrup creation, learn how to make real maple syrup as we touch briefly on the history of syrup production, discuss tree identification, learn about tree tapping and the collection and processing of sap into syrup. $10 per class / $0 per class (solidarity pricing for those who cannot pay at this time) Registration: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/2023GardeningClasses ========================================= Becoming a Master Gardener Volunteer Discussion Panel Wednesday, September 20, 2023 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County, 18 Seward Avenue Suite 300 (third floor), Middletown, New York 10940 Are you interested in becoming a Master Gardener Volunteer with Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County? Our next Master Gardener Volunteer Training will start in January 2024. A link to our online application will be emailed to you in the beginning of September 2023 and will be due on October 15, 2023. Join us to hear all about the program from a panel of Master Gardener Volunteers and the Master Gardener Volunteer Coordinator. We will talk you through the application process, our training model, and what it is like to be a Master Gardener Volunteer. Anyone interested in submitting an application for the 2024 Master Gardener Volunteer Training must attend one of our two 'Becoming a Master Gardener Volunteer Discussion Panels'. Free Susan Ndiaye, sgn32@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.250 Registration: https://cornell.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bNS9UZxEVtoWpv0 ========================================= Gardening Questions Answered - 2023 Third Thursday Series Thursday, September 21, 2023 12:00 pm - 12:30 pm Online Event Join us every month on the third Thursday at noon as we answer your gardening questions. Each month we will focus on a specific topic. Pick and choose the topics that interest you. If you have any questions, you can submit them using this form. Photos are much appreciated. If you can't think of any question now, you can always use this form to submit questions later. You will receive a Zoom Link the week before each session for which you are registered. Don't worry if you can't make it, we will send out a link to the recording after each session. We will also post the recordings on our website. Gardening Questions Answered Date  Time Topic Thursday, January 19th 12:00 pm Winter Damage on Plants Thursday, February 16th 12:00 pm Soil Testing for Home Gardeners Thursday, March 16th 12:00 pm Tree Care Thursday, April 20th 12:00 pm Pests of Ornamentals Thursday, May 18th 12:00 pm Beneficial Insects in the Garden Thursday, June 15th 12:00 pm Invasive Plants Thursday, July 20th 12:00 pm Pests in your Vegetable Garden Thursday, August 17th 12:00 pm Invasive Insects & other Invertebrates Thursday, September 21st 12:00 pm Growing Fruit in your Backyard Thursday, October 19th 12:00 pm Home Invaders: Managing Overwintering Insects in your Home Thursday, November 16th 12:00 pm Care for Evergreen Shrubs & Trees Thursday, December 21st 12:00 pm Houseplants Free Susan M. D'Egidio, smd348@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.240 Registration: https://cornell.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9mcyeqAsPgLTqR0 ========================================= Becoming a Master Gardener Volunteer Discussion Panel Saturday, September 23, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County, 18 Seward Avenue Suite 300 (third floor), Middletown, New York 10940 Are you interested in becoming a Master Gardener Volunteer with Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County? Our next Master Gardener Volunteer Training will start in January 2024. A link to our online application will be emailed to you in the beginning of September 2023 and will be due on October 15, 2023. Join us to hear all about the program from a panel of Master Gardener Volunteers and the Master Gardener Volunteer Coordinator. We will talk you through the application process, our training model, and what it is like to be a Master Gardener Volunteer. Anyone interested in submitting an application for the 2024 Master Gardener Volunteer Training must attend one of our two 'Becoming a Master Gardener Volunteer Discussion Panels'. Free Susan Ndiaye, sgn32@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.250 Registration: https://cornell.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bNS9UZxEVtoWpv0 ========================================= Nature Journaling 2023 Saturday, September 23, 2023 10:00 am - 1:00 pm Education Center & 4-H Park, 300 Finchville Turnpike , Otisville, New York 10963 Join us in our new gardens at the Education Center & 4H Park to create a Nature Journal. Together we will sketch landscapes, plant life, and record our observations while connecting with the nature surrounding us.Many people find nature journaling encourages them to make entries on a regular basis, whether it is to record daily, monthly, or seasonal observations. Journals can be beautiful works of art, a practical history of a journalist’s garden or a combination of both!No drawing experience is required. A materials list will be provided upon registration.Registration closes: Friday, September 15th. Registration is limited to the first 12 people.Fee: $35 per person, participants must bring their own materials. A list of materials will be provided with your registration confirmation. $35 Susan M. D'Egidio, smd348@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.240 Registration: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/2023NatureJournaling ========================================= Bountiful Harvest Celebration 2023 Friday, September 29, 2023 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm Education Center & 4-H Park, 300 Finchville Turnpike , Otisville, New York 10963 Save the Date!Come join us at the Annual Bountiful Harvest Celebration at our Education Center & 4-H Park! You don’t want to miss out on an autumn evening filled with good old-fashioned fun and delicious food prepared from local farms!Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County's seventh annual Bountiful Harvest Celebration is on Friday, September 29th from 5:00 to 9:00 P.M. The celebration will feature an evening of good old-fashioned fun at CCEOC’s Education Center and 4-H Park in Otisville. Festivities will include hay wagon rides, a sumptuous farm-to-table dinner prepared with locally sourced favorites and the highlight event – a celebrity cow milking contest. All proceeds from the event will support the continued development of the Education Center & 4-H Park located at 300 Finchville Turnpike, Otisville, New York. Jill Van Aken, Jd863@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.261 ========================================= 2023 Gardening Classes Saturday, October 14, 2023 9:00 am - 10:30 am Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County, 18 Seward Avenue Suite 300 (third floor), Middletown, New York 10940 Join us for our 2023 Gardening Classes! Taught by our Master Gardener Volunteers these classes will be held on the 2nd Saturday of the month @ 9:00 am. (Note that there are two classes in March, the 2nd and 4th Saturdays, and no class in April or July.)  Sign-up for as many classes as you would like.2023 Gardening Classes Date and Time Topic Description Saturday, January 14th @ 9:00 am Landscaping for New Homeowners When moving into a new home, figuring out what to do with the landscaping can be quite overwhelming. This class will take you through the process starting with assessing everything in your yard, both the hardscaping — sidewalks, patios, driveways — and the softscaping — flowers, shrubs, tree, lawn. We will then discuss how to create a long-range plan for your yard and how to start making changes. In the event of inclement weather, this class will be held virtually via Zoom. Saturday, February 11th @ 9:00 am Shiitake Mushroom Cultivation Learn about the history, benefits, and proven best practices for growing Shiitake mushrooms on logs at home or for small scale commercial use. In the event of inclement weather, this class will be held virtually via Zoom. Saturday, March 11th @ 9:00 am Pruning Pruning is easy when you can identify how a plant grows, understand the purpose of pruning, and know proven pruning techniques. This class is designed to provide a solid base in the science and practice of selective pruning so you can enhance the beauty and vigor of your shrubs and trees. Saturday, March 25th @ 9:00 am Home Composting Not sure what to do with your kitchen, garden, and yard scraps? Would you like to start composting at home? Come learn the basics of home composting including what, where, and how to compost. We also will provide proven suggestions for your home compost bin design and discuss vermicomposting (composting with worms). Saturday, May 13th @ 9:00 am Vegetable Gardening During this class you will learn all about vegetable gardening from deciding where to put your garden to when to harvest your bounty. You will also learn about numerous crops that grow well in our area, how and when to plant them, and how to care for your garden throughout the year. Saturday, June 10th @ 9:00 am Container Gardening Whether you are looking to grow vegetables and herbs, create a beautiful living screen, or just beautify your home, this class will help you get your container gardens off to a great start. Learn how to choose your containers, select and arrange plants, and maintain your containers so they look fabulous throughout the garden season. Saturday, August 12th @ 9:00 am Lawncare for Homeowners When is the best time to fertilize your lawn? What variety of grass seed grows best in the shade? How often should you lime your lawn? How do you know if you have a grub problem? Come learn the answers to these questions and more as we discuss how to make your lawn an attractive environmental asset. Saturday, September 9th @ 9:00 am Lawn Elimination and Reduction Picturesque lawns require vast inputs of time, energy, lawn care products, and water, but offer little wildlife habitat or food for people. This program will cover the basics of lawn reduction or elimination for the homeowner. We will discuss your goals, budgeting time and money, site assessment and site preparation, as well as the selection of appropriate plant material, including tips for establishing a wildflower meadow. Saturday, October 14th @ 9:00 am Putting the Garden to Bed Preparing a garden for overwintering is an art and a science. Removing dead leaves from some plants is healthy; others require them for winter protection. Many species, though dead, contribute food and form and creature protection; others benefit from wrapping against harsh winds and hungry deer. Learn the basics and apply them to your own garden. Saturday, November 11th @ 9:00 am Integrating  Native Plants in Your Garden Native plants can enhance your garden by adding structure, color, and texture, as well as food for native fauna such as pollinators and birds. During this class we will explore plants native to our region and how you can successfully integrate them into your current gardens transforming them into beautiful native sanctuaries. Participants are encouraged to bring photos, site plans, and plant lists from their current gardens. After a short presentation we will work together to develop a multi-year plan to integrate natives throughout the landscape. Saturday, December 9th @ 9:00 am Backyard Maple Syrup During this introduction to the process of maple syrup creation, learn how to make real maple syrup as we touch briefly on the history of syrup production, discuss tree identification, learn about tree tapping and the collection and processing of sap into syrup. $10 per class / $0 per class (solidarity pricing for those who cannot pay at this time) Registration: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/2023GardeningClasses ========================================= Gardening Questions Answered - 2023 Third Thursday Series Thursday, October 19, 2023 12:00 pm - 12:30 pm Online Event Join us every month on the third Thursday at noon as we answer your gardening questions. Each month we will focus on a specific topic. Pick and choose the topics that interest you. If you have any questions, you can submit them using this form. Photos are much appreciated. If you can't think of any question now, you can always use this form to submit questions later. You will receive a Zoom Link the week before each session for which you are registered. Don't worry if you can't make it, we will send out a link to the recording after each session. We will also post the recordings on our website. Gardening Questions Answered Date  Time Topic Thursday, January 19th 12:00 pm Winter Damage on Plants Thursday, February 16th 12:00 pm Soil Testing for Home Gardeners Thursday, March 16th 12:00 pm Tree Care Thursday, April 20th 12:00 pm Pests of Ornamentals Thursday, May 18th 12:00 pm Beneficial Insects in the Garden Thursday, June 15th 12:00 pm Invasive Plants Thursday, July 20th 12:00 pm Pests in your Vegetable Garden Thursday, August 17th 12:00 pm Invasive Insects & other Invertebrates Thursday, September 21st 12:00 pm Growing Fruit in your Backyard Thursday, October 19th 12:00 pm Home Invaders: Managing Overwintering Insects in your Home Thursday, November 16th 12:00 pm Care for Evergreen Shrubs & Trees Thursday, December 21st 12:00 pm Houseplants Free Susan M. D'Egidio, smd348@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.240 Registration: https://cornell.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9mcyeqAsPgLTqR0 ========================================= Create an Autumn Wreath 2023 Saturday, October 28, 2023 10:00 am - 11:30 am Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County, 18 Seward Avenue Suite 300 (third floor), Middletown, New York 10940 There is more to fall than pumpkins and corn stalks! This workshop will enable participants to create a beautiful autumn wreath from natural dried flowers, leaves, and other fall themed items. Registration closes: Friday, October 20th.  Registration is limited to the first 20 people.Fee: $35 per person, includes all materials to make one wreath $35 Susan M. D'Egidio, smd348@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.240 Registration: https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E190538&id=716 ========================================= Southeastern New York Stormwater Management Training Series February – April 2023 Wednesday, November 8, 2023 8:30 am - 1:00 pm UPDATE: Due to a delay in the DEC manual, the final two Stormwater classes have been rescheduled to the following dates: MS4 Permit Updates - Wednesday November 8th, 2023THE NEW DESIGN MANUAL - Wednesday November 29th, 2023Classes run 4 hours from 8:30 AM to 1:00 PM virtually via Zoom.Workshop Fees: $175 per class; $125 for NYS or OC Government or OCSWCD employee.If you are a part of a New York State or Orange County government office or from the Orange County Soil and Water Conservation District, please enter the code SW2023 when checking out online or reference the code if registering over the phone.4 PDHs, 4 LUs, and 4 CEUs are expected to be awarded for all of these classes.PLEASE NOTE that it is the policy of the Eastern NY SW RTC not to refund “no show” registrants.Cancellations must be made at least 24 hours prior to the course date and will be charged a $25 fee.Substitutions and transfers are acceptable up to the day of any course. Who Should Attend?You should attend the training if you are one of the following: Code Enforcement Officer, consulting/municipal design engineer, Municipal Planning Board member, land use planner/developer, stormwater professional, teacher, municipal staff, consultant, or landscape architect.PRINCIPAL INSTRUCTOR: John Dunkle, P.E., CPESC, CPMSM John has been a practicing civil engineer since 1981 and is a Certified Professional in Erosion & Sediment Control (CPESC), and a Certified Professional in Municipal Stormwater Management (CPMSM). John has prepared & reviewed Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans (SWPPPs), provided guidance for Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4s), & participated with DEC in the development of the current stormwater regulations & design manuals. John also teaches a graduate level Stormwater Management class at SUNY-Environmental Science & Forestry & has been conducting stormwater trainings across New York State for over 15 years. He has also been Planning Board Chairman for over 10 years in his hometown.2023 Class Schedule:1. Hydrology; 02-01-2023 ~ 4.0 PDH available for this course.2. SMPs; 02-22-2023 ~ 4.0 PDH available for this course.From dry detention to tree plantings, the NYS Stormwater Design Manual outlines the numerous possibilities for selecting practices to meet the permit requirements for peak flow mitigation, water quality treatment and runoff reduction. This class will review the characteristics and performance of each of these practices and will provide an overview of the many considerations that must be made to choose the most appropriate ones for site specific needs. Practice sizing, construction and maintenance of each practice will also be covered.3. SWPPP Preparation and Review; 03-15-2023 ~ 4.0 PDH available for this course. Preparing, reviewing, and implementing a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) is essential to stormwater management for both the public and private sectors. The SWPPP is a key component of the Construction General Permit and of Minimum Control Measures 4, 5, and 6 of the MS4 General Stormwater Permit. In the new draft MS4 permit, municipalities are required to prepare SWPPP’s for their own facilities. This class will review all of the required elements of partial and full SWPPP’s, including site planning, E & SC, hydrology, good housekeeping, post construction management and maintenance. Preparation and review checklists will be provided and examined.4. MS4 Permit Updates; 11-08-2023 ~ 4.0 PDH available for this course. From education, to administration, to inspection, municipalities designated by the state as Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4’s) have numerous responsibilities. In many instances, these municipalities must rely on their consulting or staff engineers to meet the technical components of these obligations. This class, presented jointly withNYSDEC, and Andy Sansone of the Monroe County Department of Environmental Services, will provide guidance for municipal officials, and engineers assisting municipalities in complying with the six minimum measures of the MS4 permit. Specific discussion topics will include: Storm sewer shed and outfall mappingIllicit Discharge DetectionPreparation of the Stormwater Management Program PlanConstruction Site inspectionsSWPPP reviewTMDL/303d requirementsMaintenance programs and agreementsGood housekeepingPreparation of Annual ReportsRetrofit programsSWMP and SWPPP preparation for municipal facilitiesRecently, DEC has released the new DRAFT MS4 General Permit which will eventually be finalized for a new five year term.The new permit clarifies and simplifies the existing permit while introducing new compliance challenges and obligations. The draft permit modifications and their impact to MS4’s will be covered in detail.5. Stormwater Management Design Manual Updates ; 11-29-2023 ~ 4.0 PDH available for this course. PAYMENT: We accept credit card payments over the phone by calling 845-344-1234 or online at the registration link below OR you can mail a check to our office at 18 Seward Avenue, Suite 300 Middletown, NY 10940. Please make checks payable to: CCEOC and Attention: Stormwater Registration. Payment must be received by our office at least 2 days prior to the class date.Additional details will be sent to registered individuals prior to the class date including Zoom registration information to access the course. Registration starts at 8:00 AM and classes will be held from 8:30 AM -1:00 PM. $175 per class; $125 for NYS or OC Government or OCSWCD Employee Erik Schellenberg, jk2642@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.260 Registration: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/2023EasternNewYorkStormwaterManagementTraining ========================================= 2023 Gardening Classes Saturday, November 11, 2023 9:00 am - 11:00 am Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County, 18 Seward Avenue Suite 300 (third floor), Middletown, New York 10940 Join us for our 2023 Gardening Classes! Taught by our Master Gardener Volunteers these classes will be held on the 2nd Saturday of the month @ 9:00 am. (Note that there are two classes in March, the 2nd and 4th Saturdays, and no class in April or July.)  Sign-up for as many classes as you would like.2023 Gardening Classes Date and Time Topic Description Saturday, January 14th @ 9:00 am Landscaping for New Homeowners When moving into a new home, figuring out what to do with the landscaping can be quite overwhelming. This class will take you through the process starting with assessing everything in your yard, both the hardscaping — sidewalks, patios, driveways — and the softscaping — flowers, shrubs, tree, lawn. We will then discuss how to create a long-range plan for your yard and how to start making changes. In the event of inclement weather, this class will be held virtually via Zoom. Saturday, February 11th @ 9:00 am Shiitake Mushroom Cultivation Learn about the history, benefits, and proven best practices for growing Shiitake mushrooms on logs at home or for small scale commercial use. In the event of inclement weather, this class will be held virtually via Zoom. Saturday, March 11th @ 9:00 am Pruning Pruning is easy when you can identify how a plant grows, understand the purpose of pruning, and know proven pruning techniques. This class is designed to provide a solid base in the science and practice of selective pruning so you can enhance the beauty and vigor of your shrubs and trees. Saturday, March 25th @ 9:00 am Home Composting Not sure what to do with your kitchen, garden, and yard scraps? Would you like to start composting at home? Come learn the basics of home composting including what, where, and how to compost. We also will provide proven suggestions for your home compost bin design and discuss vermicomposting (composting with worms). Saturday, May 13th @ 9:00 am Vegetable Gardening During this class you will learn all about vegetable gardening from deciding where to put your garden to when to harvest your bounty. You will also learn about numerous crops that grow well in our area, how and when to plant them, and how to care for your garden throughout the year. Saturday, June 10th @ 9:00 am Container Gardening Whether you are looking to grow vegetables and herbs, create a beautiful living screen, or just beautify your home, this class will help you get your container gardens off to a great start. Learn how to choose your containers, select and arrange plants, and maintain your containers so they look fabulous throughout the garden season. Saturday, August 12th @ 9:00 am Lawncare for Homeowners When is the best time to fertilize your lawn? What variety of grass seed grows best in the shade? How often should you lime your lawn? How do you know if you have a grub problem? Come learn the answers to these questions and more as we discuss how to make your lawn an attractive environmental asset. Saturday, September 9th @ 9:00 am Lawn Elimination and Reduction Picturesque lawns require vast inputs of time, energy, lawn care products, and water, but offer little wildlife habitat or food for people. This program will cover the basics of lawn reduction or elimination for the homeowner. We will discuss your goals, budgeting time and money, site assessment and site preparation, as well as the selection of appropriate plant material, including tips for establishing a wildflower meadow. Saturday, October 14th @ 9:00 am Putting the Garden to Bed Preparing a garden for overwintering is an art and a science. Removing dead leaves from some plants is healthy; others require them for winter protection. Many species, though dead, contribute food and form and creature protection; others benefit from wrapping against harsh winds and hungry deer. Learn the basics and apply them to your own garden. Saturday, November 11th @ 9:00 am Integrating  Native Plants in Your Garden Native plants can enhance your garden by adding structure, color, and texture, as well as food for native fauna such as pollinators and birds. During this class we will explore plants native to our region and how you can successfully integrate them into your current gardens transforming them into beautiful native sanctuaries. Participants are encouraged to bring photos, site plans, and plant lists from their current gardens. After a short presentation we will work together to develop a multi-year plan to integrate natives throughout the landscape. Saturday, December 9th @ 9:00 am Backyard Maple Syrup During this introduction to the process of maple syrup creation, learn how to make real maple syrup as we touch briefly on the history of syrup production, discuss tree identification, learn about tree tapping and the collection and processing of sap into syrup. $10 per class / $0 per class (solidarity pricing for those who cannot pay at this time) Registration: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/2023GardeningClasses ========================================= Gardening Questions Answered - 2023 Third Thursday Series Thursday, November 16, 2023 12:00 pm - 12:30 pm Online Event Join us every month on the third Thursday at noon as we answer your gardening questions. Each month we will focus on a specific topic. Pick and choose the topics that interest you. If you have any questions, you can submit them using this form. Photos are much appreciated. If you can't think of any question now, you can always use this form to submit questions later. You will receive a Zoom Link the week before each session for which you are registered. Don't worry if you can't make it, we will send out a link to the recording after each session. We will also post the recordings on our website. Gardening Questions Answered Date  Time Topic Thursday, January 19th 12:00 pm Winter Damage on Plants Thursday, February 16th 12:00 pm Soil Testing for Home Gardeners Thursday, March 16th 12:00 pm Tree Care Thursday, April 20th 12:00 pm Pests of Ornamentals Thursday, May 18th 12:00 pm Beneficial Insects in the Garden Thursday, June 15th 12:00 pm Invasive Plants Thursday, July 20th 12:00 pm Pests in your Vegetable Garden Thursday, August 17th 12:00 pm Invasive Insects & other Invertebrates Thursday, September 21st 12:00 pm Growing Fruit in your Backyard Thursday, October 19th 12:00 pm Home Invaders: Managing Overwintering Insects in your Home Thursday, November 16th 12:00 pm Care for Evergreen Shrubs & Trees Thursday, December 21st 12:00 pm Houseplants Free Susan M. D'Egidio, smd348@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.240 Registration: https://cornell.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9mcyeqAsPgLTqR0 ========================================= Create a Fall Pumpkin Centerpiece 2023 Saturday, November 18, 2023 10:00 am - 11:00 am Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County, 18 Seward Avenue Suite 300 (third floor), Middletown, New York 10940 Here is an opportunity to make a beautiful fall flower arrangement in a ceramic pumpkin, just in time for Thanksgiving. Each attendee will design a centerpiece to beautify their home.Participants will learn to construct a fresh floral centerpiece. The instructors will review different types of flowers one can use to create arrangements and teach participants how to properly condition flowers before using them in an arrangement. All materials for the centerpiece are included in your registration.Registration closes: Friday, November 10th.Registration is limited to the first 20 people.Fee: $30 per person, includes all materials to make centerpiece $30 Susan M. D'Egidio, smd348@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.240 Registration: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/2023CreateAFallPumpkinCenterpiece ========================================= Southeastern New York Stormwater Management Training Series February – April 2023 Wednesday, November 29, 2023 12:00 pm - 12:00 pm UPDATE: Due to a delay in the DEC manual, the final two Stormwater classes have been rescheduled to the following dates: MS4 Permit Updates - Wednesday November 8th, 2023THE NEW DESIGN MANUAL - Wednesday November 29th, 2023Classes run 4 hours from 8:30 AM to 1:00 PM virtually via Zoom.Workshop Fees: $175 per class; $125 for NYS or OC Government or OCSWCD employee.If you are a part of a New York State or Orange County government office or from the Orange County Soil and Water Conservation District, please enter the code SW2023 when checking out online or reference the code if registering over the phone.4 PDHs, 4 LUs, and 4 CEUs are expected to be awarded for all of these classes.PLEASE NOTE that it is the policy of the Eastern NY SW RTC not to refund “no show” registrants.Cancellations must be made at least 24 hours prior to the course date and will be charged a $25 fee.Substitutions and transfers are acceptable up to the day of any course. Who Should Attend?You should attend the training if you are one of the following: Code Enforcement Officer, consulting/municipal design engineer, Municipal Planning Board member, land use planner/developer, stormwater professional, teacher, municipal staff, consultant, or landscape architect.PRINCIPAL INSTRUCTOR: John Dunkle, P.E., CPESC, CPMSM John has been a practicing civil engineer since 1981 and is a Certified Professional in Erosion & Sediment Control (CPESC), and a Certified Professional in Municipal Stormwater Management (CPMSM). John has prepared & reviewed Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans (SWPPPs), provided guidance for Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4s), & participated with DEC in the development of the current stormwater regulations & design manuals. John also teaches a graduate level Stormwater Management class at SUNY-Environmental Science & Forestry & has been conducting stormwater trainings across New York State for over 15 years. He has also been Planning Board Chairman for over 10 years in his hometown.2023 Class Schedule:1. Hydrology; 02-01-2023 ~ 4.0 PDH available for this course.2. SMPs; 02-22-2023 ~ 4.0 PDH available for this course.From dry detention to tree plantings, the NYS Stormwater Design Manual outlines the numerous possibilities for selecting practices to meet the permit requirements for peak flow mitigation, water quality treatment and runoff reduction. This class will review the characteristics and performance of each of these practices and will provide an overview of the many considerations that must be made to choose the most appropriate ones for site specific needs. Practice sizing, construction and maintenance of each practice will also be covered.3. SWPPP Preparation and Review; 03-15-2023 ~ 4.0 PDH available for this course. Preparing, reviewing, and implementing a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) is essential to stormwater management for both the public and private sectors. The SWPPP is a key component of the Construction General Permit and of Minimum Control Measures 4, 5, and 6 of the MS4 General Stormwater Permit. In the new draft MS4 permit, municipalities are required to prepare SWPPP’s for their own facilities. This class will review all of the required elements of partial and full SWPPP’s, including site planning, E & SC, hydrology, good housekeeping, post construction management and maintenance. Preparation and review checklists will be provided and examined.4. MS4 Permit Updates; 11-08-2023 ~ 4.0 PDH available for this course. From education, to administration, to inspection, municipalities designated by the state as Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4’s) have numerous responsibilities. In many instances, these municipalities must rely on their consulting or staff engineers to meet the technical components of these obligations. This class, presented jointly withNYSDEC, and Andy Sansone of the Monroe County Department of Environmental Services, will provide guidance for municipal officials, and engineers assisting municipalities in complying with the six minimum measures of the MS4 permit. Specific discussion topics will include: Storm sewer shed and outfall mappingIllicit Discharge DetectionPreparation of the Stormwater Management Program PlanConstruction Site inspectionsSWPPP reviewTMDL/303d requirementsMaintenance programs and agreementsGood housekeepingPreparation of Annual ReportsRetrofit programsSWMP and SWPPP preparation for municipal facilitiesRecently, DEC has released the new DRAFT MS4 General Permit which will eventually be finalized for a new five year term.The new permit clarifies and simplifies the existing permit while introducing new compliance challenges and obligations. The draft permit modifications and their impact to MS4’s will be covered in detail.5. Stormwater Management Design Manual Updates ; 11-29-2023 ~ 4.0 PDH available for this course. PAYMENT: We accept credit card payments over the phone by calling 845-344-1234 or online at the registration link below OR you can mail a check to our office at 18 Seward Avenue, Suite 300 Middletown, NY 10940. Please make checks payable to: CCEOC and Attention: Stormwater Registration. Payment must be received by our office at least 2 days prior to the class date.Additional details will be sent to registered individuals prior to the class date including Zoom registration information to access the course. Registration starts at 8:00 AM and classes will be held from 8:30 AM -1:00 PM. $175 per class; $125 for NYS or OC Government or OCSWCD Employee Erik Schellenberg, jk2642@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.260 Registration: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/2023EasternNewYorkStormwaterManagementTraining ========================================= Holiday Kissing Ball Workshop 2023 Friday, December 1, 2023 10:00 am - 12:00 pm Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County, 18 Seward Avenue Suite 300 (third floor), Middletown, New York 10940 Nothing is more festive than holiday decorations made with fresh greens. This workshop will begin with an introduction to all the gorgeous greens followed by a demonstration. Then attendees will work together in small groups alongside our Master Gardener Volunteers to create their own beautiful kissing ball. Join us for this great family project! Each attendee is encouraged to bring gloves and clippers.Registration closes: Monday, November 27th. Registration is limited to the first 20 people per session. $45 per person, includes all materials to make on kissing ball Susan M. D'Egidio, smd348@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.240 Registration: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/2023HolidayKissingBallWorkshop ========================================= Holiday Wreath Workshop 2023 Friday, December 1, 2023 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County, 18 Seward Avenue Suite 300 (third floor), Middletown, New York 10940 Nothing is more festive than holiday decorations made with fresh greens. This workshop will begin with an introduction to all the gorgeous greens followed by a demonstration. Attendees will work together in small groups alongside our Master Gardener Volunteers to create their own beautiful holiday wreath. Join us for this great family project! Each attendee is encouraged to bring gloves and clippers.Registration closes: Monday, November 27th. Registration is limited to the first 20 people per session. $45 per person, includes all materials to make one holiday wreath Susan M. D'Egidio, smd348@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.240 Registration: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/2023CreateaHolidayWreath ========================================= Holiday Tabletop Tree Workshop 2023 Friday, December 1, 2023 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County, 18 Seward Avenue Suite 300 (third floor), Middletown, New York 10940 Nothing is more festive than holiday decorations made with fresh greens. This workshop will begin with an introduction to all the gorgeous greens followed by a demonstration. Then attendees will work together in small groups alongside our Master Gardener Volunteers to create their own beautiful tabletop tree. Join us for this great family project!Each attendee is encouraged to bring gloves and clippers.Registration closes: Monday, November 27th. Registration is limited to the first 20 people per session. $45 per person, includes all materials to make one tabletop tree Susan M. D'Egidio, smd348@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.240 Registration: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/2023CreateaHolidayTabletopTree ========================================= Holiday Tabletop Tree Workshop 2023 Friday, December 1, 2023 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County, 18 Seward Avenue Suite 300 (third floor), Middletown, New York 10940 Nothing is more festive than holiday decorations made with fresh greens. This workshop will begin with an introduction to all the gorgeous greens followed by a demonstration. Then attendees will work together in small groups alongside our Master Gardener Volunteers to create their own beautiful tabletop tree. Join us for this great family project!Each attendee is encouraged to bring gloves and clippers.Registration closes: Monday, November 27th. Registration is limited to the first 20 people per session. $45 per person, includes all materials to make one tabletop tree Susan M. D'Egidio, smd348@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.240 Registration: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/2023CreateaHolidayTabletopTree ========================================= Holiday Wreath Workshop 2023 Friday, December 1, 2023 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County, 18 Seward Avenue Suite 300 (third floor), Middletown, New York 10940 Nothing is more festive than holiday decorations made with fresh greens. This workshop will begin with an introduction to all the gorgeous greens followed by a demonstration. Attendees will work together in small groups alongside our Master Gardener Volunteers to create their own beautiful holiday wreath. Join us for this great family project! Each attendee is encouraged to bring gloves and clippers.Registration closes: Monday, November 27th. Registration is limited to the first 20 people per session. $45 per person, includes all materials to make one holiday wreath Susan M. D'Egidio, smd348@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.240 Registration: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/2023CreateaHolidayWreath ========================================= 2023 Gardening Classes Saturday, December 9, 2023 9:00 am - 10:30 am Cornell Cooperative Extension Orange County, 18 Seward Avenue Suite 300 (third floor), Middletown, New York 10940 Join us for our 2023 Gardening Classes! Taught by our Master Gardener Volunteers these classes will be held on the 2nd Saturday of the month @ 9:00 am. (Note that there are two classes in March, the 2nd and 4th Saturdays, and no class in April or July.)  Sign-up for as many classes as you would like.2023 Gardening Classes Date and Time Topic Description Saturday, January 14th @ 9:00 am Landscaping for New Homeowners When moving into a new home, figuring out what to do with the landscaping can be quite overwhelming. This class will take you through the process starting with assessing everything in your yard, both the hardscaping — sidewalks, patios, driveways — and the softscaping — flowers, shrubs, tree, lawn. We will then discuss how to create a long-range plan for your yard and how to start making changes. In the event of inclement weather, this class will be held virtually via Zoom. Saturday, February 11th @ 9:00 am Shiitake Mushroom Cultivation Learn about the history, benefits, and proven best practices for growing Shiitake mushrooms on logs at home or for small scale commercial use. In the event of inclement weather, this class will be held virtually via Zoom. Saturday, March 11th @ 9:00 am Pruning Pruning is easy when you can identify how a plant grows, understand the purpose of pruning, and know proven pruning techniques. This class is designed to provide a solid base in the science and practice of selective pruning so you can enhance the beauty and vigor of your shrubs and trees. Saturday, March 25th @ 9:00 am Home Composting Not sure what to do with your kitchen, garden, and yard scraps? Would you like to start composting at home? Come learn the basics of home composting including what, where, and how to compost. We also will provide proven suggestions for your home compost bin design and discuss vermicomposting (composting with worms). Saturday, May 13th @ 9:00 am Vegetable Gardening During this class you will learn all about vegetable gardening from deciding where to put your garden to when to harvest your bounty. You will also learn about numerous crops that grow well in our area, how and when to plant them, and how to care for your garden throughout the year. Saturday, June 10th @ 9:00 am Container Gardening Whether you are looking to grow vegetables and herbs, create a beautiful living screen, or just beautify your home, this class will help you get your container gardens off to a great start. Learn how to choose your containers, select and arrange plants, and maintain your containers so they look fabulous throughout the garden season. Saturday, August 12th @ 9:00 am Lawncare for Homeowners When is the best time to fertilize your lawn? What variety of grass seed grows best in the shade? How often should you lime your lawn? How do you know if you have a grub problem? Come learn the answers to these questions and more as we discuss how to make your lawn an attractive environmental asset. Saturday, September 9th @ 9:00 am Lawn Elimination and Reduction Picturesque lawns require vast inputs of time, energy, lawn care products, and water, but offer little wildlife habitat or food for people. This program will cover the basics of lawn reduction or elimination for the homeowner. We will discuss your goals, budgeting time and money, site assessment and site preparation, as well as the selection of appropriate plant material, including tips for establishing a wildflower meadow. Saturday, October 14th @ 9:00 am Putting the Garden to Bed Preparing a garden for overwintering is an art and a science. Removing dead leaves from some plants is healthy; others require them for winter protection. Many species, though dead, contribute food and form and creature protection; others benefit from wrapping against harsh winds and hungry deer. Learn the basics and apply them to your own garden. Saturday, November 11th @ 9:00 am Integrating  Native Plants in Your Garden Native plants can enhance your garden by adding structure, color, and texture, as well as food for native fauna such as pollinators and birds. During this class we will explore plants native to our region and how you can successfully integrate them into your current gardens transforming them into beautiful native sanctuaries. Participants are encouraged to bring photos, site plans, and plant lists from their current gardens. After a short presentation we will work together to develop a multi-year plan to integrate natives throughout the landscape. Saturday, December 9th @ 9:00 am Backyard Maple Syrup During this introduction to the process of maple syrup creation, learn how to make real maple syrup as we touch briefly on the history of syrup production, discuss tree identification, learn about tree tapping and the collection and processing of sap into syrup. $10 per class / $0 per class (solidarity pricing for those who cannot pay at this time) Registration: http://weblink.donorperfect.com/2023GardeningClasses ========================================= Gardening Questions Answered - 2023 Third Thursday Series Thursday, December 21, 2023 12:00 pm - 12:30 pm Online Event Join us every month on the third Thursday at noon as we answer your gardening questions. Each month we will focus on a specific topic. Pick and choose the topics that interest you. If you have any questions, you can submit them using this form. Photos are much appreciated. If you can't think of any question now, you can always use this form to submit questions later. You will receive a Zoom Link the week before each session for which you are registered. Don't worry if you can't make it, we will send out a link to the recording after each session. We will also post the recordings on our website. Gardening Questions Answered Date  Time Topic Thursday, January 19th 12:00 pm Winter Damage on Plants Thursday, February 16th 12:00 pm Soil Testing for Home Gardeners Thursday, March 16th 12:00 pm Tree Care Thursday, April 20th 12:00 pm Pests of Ornamentals Thursday, May 18th 12:00 pm Beneficial Insects in the Garden Thursday, June 15th 12:00 pm Invasive Plants Thursday, July 20th 12:00 pm Pests in your Vegetable Garden Thursday, August 17th 12:00 pm Invasive Insects & other Invertebrates Thursday, September 21st 12:00 pm Growing Fruit in your Backyard Thursday, October 19th 12:00 pm Home Invaders: Managing Overwintering Insects in your Home Thursday, November 16th 12:00 pm Care for Evergreen Shrubs & Trees Thursday, December 21st 12:00 pm Houseplants Free Susan M. D'Egidio, smd348@cornell.edu, 845-344-1234 Ext.240 Registration: https://cornell.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9mcyeqAsPgLTqR0 =========================================