‘Building strong and sustainable communities'

MIDDLETOWN-Cornell Cooperative Extension and their 4-H Youth Development Program celebrated ‘Building Strong and Sustainable Communities’ during the past week. The extension’s diverse contributions were reflected in the programs offered during the week, including an “Open House on the Farm,” “Relatives as Parents Support Group” in English and Spanish in several locations, a Christmas tree growers meeting, a produce buyer’s tour, “From Hardship to Hope” detailing mental health concerns of relative caregivers, and a myriad of 4-H activities, including a registration night in Middletown, a clothing drive in Montgomery, a proclamation with the Town of Wallkill, and a window display at Pine Bush Equipment. On Thursday, Oct. 6, extension educators and administrators joined county legislators for an annual luncheon meeting at the Government Center. The past year’s efforts were reviewed, and opportunities for collaboration discussed. Afterwards, a proclamation from County Executive Ed Diana was presented to Patricia Claiborne, executive director of Cornell Cooperative Extension in Orange County. Call the Garden Helpline at 343-0664, and the Consumer Helpline at 344-1234, for home and garden issues, or visit cce.cornell.edu/orange.