January 2025

Message

from the

Executive

Director

Dear CCE Suffolk community,


Happy New Year! As we step into 2025, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for your continued support of Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County. Together, we’ve built a legacy of innovation, resilience, and service, empowering our community to thrive in countless ways.


Looking back at 2024, we celebrated incredible milestones, from advancing sustainable agricultural practices, to pioneering environmental restoration efforts, to creating groundbreaking public health programs. These accomplishments were only possible because of the dedication of our staff and the strength of our partnerships across Suffolk County.


Over the last year, our leadership team prioritized “win-win” strategies that benefit both our programs and the diverse collaborators we work alongside, including public and private partners. By finding common ground and aligning goals, we can create synergies that amplify our collective impact while ensuring sustainable growth for all involved.


In 2025, we’re building on that momentum, aiming to go above and beyond our mission to be the best resource possible for our communities. We are committed to fostering deeper connections, enhancing accessibility to our programs, and identifying new opportunities to address the unique challenges faced by the people and industries we serve. By leveraging our expertise, engaging stakeholders, and driving innovation, we plan to make an even greater impact in the coming year.


Your support remains vital to our success. I invite you to stay engaged—whether by attending one of our workshops, joining our volunteer efforts, or spreading the word about our programs. Together, we can continue to make Suffolk County a place where both people and the environment thrive.


Thank you for being an essential part of our journey. I look forward to celebrating another year of growth, collaboration, and shared success with you.


Warm regards,


Vanessa Lockel

Executive Director

Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County

Executive Director Highlight

Thank You CCE Suffolk Staff for Another Incredible Year!


As we ring in 2025, we want to take a moment to reflect on all the incredible milestones we’ve achieved together this past year. From groundbreaking research and environmental restoration projects to community workshops and youth programs, none of it would have been possible without our dedicated staff, volunteers, and supporters.


To our amazing team: Thank you for your passion, hard work, and commitment to making a difference in Suffolk County. You inspire us every day!

2024 Staff Holiday Celebration


The holiday spirit was in full bloom at CCE Suffolk for this years Holiday Celebration! Our festivities began with a cherished tradition: the annual poinsettia delivery from the Independent Group Home Living, Inc. (IGHL)


Founded in 1978 in Mt. Sinai, IGHL creates a community-based, supportive environment where individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities can thrive. This year, IGHL brightened our offices with their beautiful poinsettias and spread cheer to the Suffolk County Sheriff's Office and New HOUR for Women & Children LI. We’re always thrilled to welcome IGHL residents to the Suffolk County Farm & Education Center and honored to be part of this heartwarming holiday tradition.


Next, our staff gathered for our Annual Holiday Celebration, an event filled with music, games, raffles, and laughter. Bringing together colleagues from diverse disciplines under one roof is a special reminder of the shared dedication we all have to creating a healthier, more inclusive Suffolk County.


A heartfelt thank-you to our Events Committee for organizing such a memorable gathering!

Check Out Our Merch Stores!


Already looking forward to camp season 2025? Check out our online stores, featuring exclusive merchandise from Peconic Dunes, Peconic Dunes Sea Adventures, The Suffolk County Farm Camp, and CCE Suffolk! 


Whether you're looking to show support, outfit your campers for next summer, or maybe just want a piece of camp nostalgia for yourself, there's something for everyone! 


Peconic Dunes


Peconic Dunes Sea Adventures


Suffolk County Farm Camp


Sea Explorers


CCE Suffolk

Connections and Collaborations

Talking Spanish Narcan Trainings with En Vivo 93.3 FM


CCE Suffolk Spanish-speaking educators recently joined En Vivo 93.3FM to discuss the importance of Narcan training and the Spanish-language workshops offered through CCE Suffolk Community Education Program!


Narcan, also known as naloxone, is a life-saving medication that can reverse opioid overdoses. Now more than ever, it’s essential for individuals to gain the training and confidence needed to respond effectively in an overdose emergency.


Funded by the Suffolk County Legislatureand the Suffolk County Opioid Task Force, our program equips participants with the knowledge to recognize an opioid overdose, administer naloxone, and provide care until emergency responders arrive. Those who complete the training will also receive a free naloxone (Narcan) kit.


A big thank-you to En Vivo for hosting us!


If you or your organization would like to schedule a training session, please contact Cara Sultan, Parent Educator, at caw10@cornell.edu.

Northeast Latino Agriculture Conference


CCE Suffolk was proud to participate in the Northeast Latino Agriculture Conference in Sandy Point, NY! Over the course of two days, the event brought together Spanish-speaking farmers and farm workers, who represent 70% of the agricultural workforce in the Northeast.


The conference focused on empowering participants with the knowledge and resources needed to pursue farm ownership. Sessions covered key topics including small farm economics, building cooperatives, and essential strategies for entrepreneurial farming.


A heartfelt thank you to the Cornell Small Farms Program for leading this invaluable initiative!


Check out the Spanish-language coverage from Noticia Long Island

Explore the CCE Suffolk Spanish

Facebook and Instagram Pages!


Discover information about upcoming events and workshops conducted in Spanish, receive valuable health tips and tricks, and more!


Facebook

Instagram

Program Updates

Agriculture

CCE Suffolk Entomologist Featured in Cornell Chronicle


CCE Suffolk Entomology Specialist Dan Gilrein was featured in the Cornell University Chronicle for his vital work assisting local growers during poinsettia season!


Last summer, Dan helped Mark Van Bourgondien, co-owner of CJ Van Bourgondien Wholesale Greenhouses, address a challenging outbreak of Lewis mites on his poinsettias. When standard treatments failed, Dan diagnosed the mites’ resistance and proposed alternative strategies that successfully resolved the issue.


Working out of the Long Island Horticultural Research and Extension Center (LIHREC), a 68-acre facility in Riverhead, Dan provides expert diagnostics and research-based solutions for managing pests, diseases, and environmental challenges. Poinsettias, known for their vibrant beauty and economic importance during the holidays, require specialized care to mitigate risks and protect growers’ profit margins.


Through collaboration with Cornell researchers and the New York State Integrated Pest Management program, LIHREC offers innovative training and research to support growers in overcoming evolving threats. For industry professionals, this expertise is invaluable in ensuring healthy crops and successful operations during the holiday season.


Read the full story in the Cornell Chronicle here

Long Island Agricultural Forum


Join us for the 44th Annual Long Island Agricultural Forum!


The LI Ag Forum is a two-day educational program for professionals in the agriculture and ornamental horticulture industries, with programming tailored to the needs and issues of these industries as they pertain to Long Island.


Sessions cover topics such as agricultural labor, viticulture, greenhouses, transitioning to organic, beginning a farm, and more!


Learn more/Register

Shop Local!


Many local farm stands are open and offering amazing produce!


Whether you're looking for fruit, vegetables, dairy, or baked goods, there's sure to be a location that has what you need.


Check out our Farm Stand Map for all of your farm-fresh produce! 


View here


This list has been compiled by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County as a service to Suffolk County residents and farmers. If you would like your farm stand to be included, or if you have any changes or corrections, please contact the Agriculture Program at ccesuffolkag@cornell.edu.

Community Education

Happy New Year from the Community Education Program!

36th Annual Keys for the Homeless Conference


At the 36th Annual Keys for the Homeless Conference in Melville, our RD and Diabetes Educator, Cristina Tierney, led an engaging workshop for professionals. The session focused on recognizing diabetes, supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds, and emphasizing the critical role of multidisciplinary teams in reducing complications. Attendees gained valuable insights into our team's efforts and local resources available to assist individuals experiencing homelessness.



Cara Sultan also contributed to the conference by presenting the workshop Cultivating Resilience and Self-Compassion: Supporting Ourselves and Others in Uncertain Times. Participants explored the concept of resilience and learned practical strategies for fostering it, equipping them to better navigate challenges both personally and professionally.

SNAP-Ed Newsletter


Check out the SNAP-Ed Winter Newsletter from the CCE Suffolk County Community Education Program!


Featuring upcoming events and classes, as well as a delicious Chicken and Vegetable Soup recipe!


Read here

Virtual Parenting Classes


Join us for parenting and nutrition programs for parents with young children. These programs are free; however, pre-registration is required. All programs will be approximately 1 hour.


• Fostering Early Mental Health through Secure Relationships

January 14, 2025 at 10:00am

During the first few years of their lives, babies are tremendously impacted by the experiences that they have. Learn about the importance of connecting with your child and the impact parents, caregivers, and the environment has on a child’s development. Parents will learn how to strengthen their attachments to their children through age-appropriate play and activities.


• Toddler Nutrition

January 8, 2025 at 10:00am

Ages 1-3 can be such a tricky time when it comes to food. They are starting to show food preferences, have changes in appetite, and are not always willing to sit down for a meal. On the other hand, it can be such a wonderful time to introduce your child to a world of different flavors and textures! Learn how to get your child’s relationship with food started on the right foot in this workshop, led by a CCE Suffolk Nutritionist.


Please contact the CCE Suffolk office if you have any special needs.


Learn more/Register here

Join Community Ed on Facebook Live!


Join the team on January 9th for a Facebook Live sharing tips for your New Year's resolutions!


Keep an eye out for more Facebook Live demos in the new year!


Community Education Facebook Page

Free Drug Prevention and Narcan Training Programs Available


The Community Education Program currently offers two valuable resources for your group or organization to help strengthen their support and preparedness in addressing substance use and overdose prevention.


Guiding Good Choices is a free, evidence-based drug prevention program designed for parents of children aged 9 to 14. It equips them with the tools and knowledge to guide their children through the challenges of early adolescence.


The program has been proven to:

  • Reduce current alcohol use by 41%
  • Lower the rates of initiation for alcohol and marijuana use
  • Decrease the likelihood of experimental users advancing to heavier substance use by 54%
  • Increase the chances of non-users remaining drug-free by 26%
  • Reduce the likelihood of delinquent behavior
  • Significantly slow the rate of multiple substance use


Additionally, the team offers free Narcan training, funded by the Suffolk County Legislature and the Suffolk County Opioid Task Force.


Narcan (naloxone) is a life-saving medication that reverses opioid overdoses. This training is essential for empowering individuals to respond effectively in an overdose situation. Participants will learn how to recognize the signs of an opioid overdose, administer naloxone, and provide care until emergency services arrive. Upon completion, participants receive a Narcan kit.


There are two upcoming, free Narcan trainings:

Friday, January 10th | 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Friday, February 7th | 2:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Learn more


If you are interested in scheduling either of these programs for yourselves or your school, library, agency or organization staff, please reach out to Cara Sultan, Parent Educator, at caw10@cornell.edu. Trainings are also available in Spanish.

Ask the Family Educator

by Maxine Roeper Cohen, M.S.


I’d like to turn over a new leaf now that 2025 is here. Is there an effective way to handle everyday stress?


Yes, there is a way to calm yourself in stressful situations. Think about what happens in your body when you feel anxious, pressured, or angry. Your heart rate might increase as well as your blood pressure. These are involuntary responses of the autonomic nervous system due to a surge in cortisol levels. They are often called “fight or flight” responses. These exaggerated responses are tolerable occasionally, but on a long-term basis they overtax our bodies, especially our immune systems, leaving us vulnerable to disease.


It is important to be in touch with your body and your emotions. When you feel yourself becoming upset, simply stop what you are doing and start taking a few slow, deep breaths. This is a strategy that is ages old. Tibetan Buddhists, as well as Yoga practitioners, utilize deep breathing as a way to achieve a relaxed state of calmness. Research in the 2023 Scientific Reports found that slow-paced breathing lowered participants’ stress levels and feelings of anxiety or depression.


Why do these emotional changes happen? Data from 15 studies reviewed in Frontiers in Human Neuroscience investigated the mechanisms at play during deep breathing. Taking slow, deep breaths cause changes in the autonomic nervous system, affecting respiration, digestion, body temperature, blood pressure, heart rate, and even pain level. After participants in these studies engaged in slow, deep breathing, they felt more comfortable, relaxed, alert, and energetic. They experienced decreased levels of anger, anxiety, depression, and arousal. One hypothesis as to why this happens is that slow breathing increases our ability to know and feel what’s going on in our bodies. Through this recognition, we are better able to regulate our strong feelings. A second interesting hypothesis concerns our noses. When we do slow breathing through the nose, we activate the olfactory bulb (which processes information related to


smell) in the brain. This bulb is connected to the cerebral cortex (vital for higher level thinking and emotions). Stimulating the olfactory bulb might trigger changes in the cerebral cortex which can lead to a state of relaxation and focus.


The next time you feel stressed, angry, or anxious, stop and take a few slow and deep breaths. You are helping yourself to reduce that stress and feel a greater sense of relaxation and focus. May 2025 be a year of improved health and well-being for everyone!

Suffolk County Farm & 4-H

Adult Programs at the Farm


Looking for a chance to enjoy some grown-ups-only activities at the picturesque Suffolk County Farm? Leave the kids at home and join us for these exciting upcoming events! All programs are 18+


Walking Farm Tour & Wagon Ride

1/11, 1/15, 2/6, 2/8, 2/16, & 2/22

Come tour the farm with one of our farm educators! This educational walking tour will take us to visit all of our favorite farm animals, sneak peaks behind the scenes, and for a wagon ride. Please dress for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes.


Tinsmithing

1/18

Step back in time and try your hand at Tinsmithing! Learn how to make your own pierced metal luminary. Wagon ride weather and time permitting.


Candle Dipping

2/1

Step back in time and make candles the old fashion way! Learn how to hand dip your own candles. Wagon ride weather and time permitting.


Butter Making

2/15

Step back in time and make butter by hand! We'll hand churn cream into butter and sample our finished products, bring a small jar or ziplock bag to take some home. Wagon ride weather and time permitting.


Learn more/Register

2025 Veterinary Medicine Career Exploration Program


Is there a high school student in your life interested in pursuing a career in veterinary medicine?


Registration is open for the 2025 Veterinary Medicine Career Exploration Program!


This program includes:

  • Lecture Series on Wednesday evenings from 7:00-8:45pm at the Suffolk County Farm and Education Center, in the Agriculture Exhibit Hall.
  • Veterinarian Shadowing Experience (must be completed prior to the last meeting)
  • Tour of Cornell Cooperative Extension Suffolk County Farm and Education Center: Choose either March 1 or March 9, 2025


Lecture topic examples:

  • Veterinary colleges and admissions information
  • Large & mixed animal practices
  • Small & companion animal medicine
  • Zoo medicine & exotics
  • Specializations in: Lab Animal Medicine, Emergency & Critical Care, Animal Behavior


To receive a Certificate of Completion, students must fulfill all requirements, including completing the shadowing experience and having no more than one absence (including the tour). Program graduates are eligible for the LIVMA Veterinary School scholarship.


Pre-registration is required. Registration will open January 7th.

Learn more here

Try the Farm's 1 Mile Walk!


Planning to visit the farm soon? Enjoy a refreshing workout amongst the fields and animals!


Check out the one-mile walk route here


You can also join our Executive Director on her Thursday and Friday morning runs on the property! Please email vl332@cornell.edu to sign up.

Energy

Introducing the CCE Suffolk Energy Program Advisory Committee


We are very excited to announce the formation of the Energy Program Advisory Committee, dedicated to growing our Clean Energy Program.


Brian Sapp, Director of External Affairs at National Grid, will serve as the PAC's representative to the CCE Suffolk Board of Directors.


The committee also proudly includes the following distinguished members:

  • Cynthia Colon
  • Susan Lienau
  • Theresa Santoro
  • Beverly Theodore

Home Electrification Appliance Rebate (HEAR)


Home Electrification Appliance Rebate (HEAR) funding through the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) recently expanded the incentives that income eligible Long Islanders can currently receive through the EmPower+ program and local utility programs to make their homes more comfortable and energy efficient. This new federal funding means that low-income households could be eligible for up to $40,000* in FREE home weatherization projects and heat pump installations, and moderate-income households are eligible for approximately $25,000* through applicable programs for the same projects. Refer to the eligibility table below to understand the amount your household could be eligible for through state programs.


This funding is applied toward the cost of energy efficiency improvements, including air sealing, insulation, heat pumps, heat pump water heaters, and electrical service and wiring upgrades. Qualified, participating contractors will help determine necessary improvements and what households are eligible for during the home energy assessment prior to starting any project.


Rebates and incentives are available while funding lasts so please sign up today! Go ahead and start your Empower+ application NOW or contact us at the Long Island Clean Energy Hub at LICleanEnergy@cornell.edu or

(516) 832-2591 ext. 125 for knowledgeable, personalized attention for any questions you might have!

CCE Suffolk Clean Energy Newsletter


This monthly newsletter will help to connect Suffolk County homes and businesses with the rapidly growing clean energy sector, offering home energy efficiency opportunities, municipal and communal clean energy opportunities, resources for finding job training and employment in the clean energy sector, and more!


Stay up to date with the latest from CCE Suffolk Clean Energy by subscribing to our new newsletter.

Marine

Shellabration 2024


Thank you to everyone that joined us in Greenport Village for Shellabration 2024!

 

This culinary event features Greenport’s finest establishments to enjoy local shellfish, wine, and beer pairings during a weekend long restaurant walk.


All proceeds generated from wristband sales support Cornell Cooperative Extension Marine Program shellfish restoration and community stewardship projects - specifically the SPAT Program (Suffolk Project in Aquaculture Training) and Back to the Bays Initiative. These programs empower community members to engage in shellfish restoration efforts and foster environmental stewardship, ensuring healthier waterways for future generations.


We’re grateful for your support and look forward to seeing everyone next year!

3rd Annual North Fork

Polar Bear Plunge


The Cornell Cooperative Extension Marine Program’s Back to the Bays Initiative is excited to partner once again with the North Fork Polar Bears and CAST North Fork for the 3rd Annual North Fork Polar Bear Plunge on Sunday, January 26th, at Veterans Beach! Registration opens at 8:30 AM, and the plunge kicks off at 10:00 AM.


Participants will brave the icy waters to support two meaningful causes. Proceeds will benefit CAST, an organization providing food relief, education, and critical services to residents of the North Fork and Shelter Island, and CCE Marine Program’s Back to the Bays Initiative, which works to enhance marine habitats and shellfish populations across Suffolk County. Funds raised will contribute to the creation of the new North Fork Polar Bear Marine Stewardship Site.


Whether you take the plunge or cheer from the shore, this event promises to be one of the most exciting gatherings of the winter!


Learn more

Lobster Trap Recovery & Assessment Partnership (LTRAP)


The Cornell Cooperative Extension Marine Program is proud to continue its work with the Lobster Trap Recovery & Assessment Partnership (LTRAP), a collective with The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk, Save the Sound, Project Oceanology, and Remote Ecologist!


The team was awarded $141,249 for the LTRAP, which will be used to remove approximately 1,000 derelict lobster pots from Long Island Sound, continuing efforts that have already removed over 22,000 pots since 2010. This funding will support the Marine Program's work to address the environmental threats posed by abandoned traps, which contribute to marine debris and "ghost fishing," with 20% of recovered traps still containing lobsters. The initiative targets key ports, including Mattituck, Mount Sinai, and Northport, in collaboration with the lobster industry.


Nearly 21,000 derelict traps have been recovered by CCE Suffolk to date, with most recycled or returned to their owners. Burnable waste is converted into renewable energy. CCE Suffolk also engages in educational outreach, partnering with the lobster industry and local officials to promote environmental awareness and best practices for recycling and proper disposal of inactive fishing gear.


A special thank you to the Virginia Institute of Marine Science for their generous funding of this important initiative!


Learn more

Donate Here

Your support enables us to continue to be a vital and necessary part of our county’s future. Your gift today helps ensure our programs of tomorrow.

CCE Suffolk Board of Directors Highlight

Janet Sklar, MA, RD


Janet Sklar is a highly accomplished food and nutrition professional with a Bachelor’s degree from Brooklyn College and a Master’s in School and Community Health from Adelphi University. She is a NYS Certified Dietitian-Nutritionist, holds a NYS Teaching License in Health K-12, and is a certified School Nutrition Specialist. Janet served as Food Service Director for multiple districts through Eastern Suffolk BOCES (2000–2014), where she spearheaded initiatives like Family Fall Health Festivals to promote community wellness.


A past President of the New York School Nutrition Association (2005–2008), Janet has been recognized with numerous awards, including the NY Farms Partnership Award (2005, 2006) for promoting nutrition education and wellness policies and the NYSNA & NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets Partnership Award (2011) for her work in improving produce distribution. She also led her district to achieve the prestigious SNA District of Excellence designation in 2005, the only district in New York State to earn this honor.


An advocate for community health and farm-to-school initiatives, Janet volunteers with organizations like the American Cancer Society’s Breast Cancer Dietary Intervention Project and serves as Chair of School Nutrition and Education for the Suffolk County Food Policy Council. She is an active member of the Brookhaven Democratic Committee, League of Women Voters, and advisory boards for Suffolk County Community College and Stony Brook University’s dietetic programs.

Upcoming Events

Toddler Talk

Tuesday, January 7, 2025, 10:00 AM - 10:45 AM

Tuesday, January 14, 2025, 10:00 AM - 10:45 AM

Wednesday, January 15, 2025, 6:30 PM - 7:15 PM

Tuesday, January 21, 2025, 10:00 AM - 10:45 AM

Wednesday, January 22, 2025, 6:30 PM - 7:15 PM

+ more



Join us for chats about living with toddlers! These 45-minute themed talks are for parents and other caregivers of children between 12-36 months of age. There is no fee to participate, however advanced registration is required. Please use the corresponding link to register for the topic(s) of your choice.


Please note, these are not formal programs so please come with your questions for our educators.


Learn more/Register here

Understanding Autism

Wednesday, January 8, 2025, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

Thursday, January 16, 2025, 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM


Free Professional Development for Children’s Librarians


The Family Health and Wellness Educators of Cornell Cooperative Extension’s Community Education Program invite you to join us for Understanding Autism. We will be presenting this program via Zoom on the dates below. The trainings are free of charge, pre-registration is required.


Learn more/Register

Guidance for Offshore

Wind Careers

Wednesday, January 8, 2025, 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM


Find your role within offshore wind’s broad range of careers, from skilled tradesman to environmental engineering!


Join us for a 90-minute workshop sponsored by Suffolk County Community College which includes a short lecture and a fun hands-on project on Junauary 8th at Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County, 423 Griffing Avenue, Riverhead. The workshop is open to high school students and adults with interests in almost any skill, from welding to engineering.


Attendees will learn:

  • What are wind farms
  • How do they work
  • What is happening on Long Island now
  • What jobs will be offered in the future
  • How to build a turbine


Learn more/Register

Bilingual Diabetes Nutrition Education Workshop Series


Held via Zoom


English

Mondays: January 13th - April 14th

6:30-7:30 pm


Spanish

Tuesdays January 14th - April 7th

6:30-7:30 pm


https://cornell.zoom.us/j/91807484123?pwd=eXBEYlJoWE0vNk1RekZRYnk0cUFaQT09

Meeting ID 918 0748 4123 • Passcode: Diabetes


Email: RegistrationCCES@Cornell.edu

Text/Call (631) 759-4985 with any questions


Free Virtual Parenting and Nutrition Classes

Tuesday, January 14, 2025, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Wednesday, January 8, 2025, 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM


Everything you need to care for and feed your young family!


Join us for parenting and nutrition programs for parents with young children. These programs are free; however, pre-registration is required.


  • Fostering Early Mental Health through Secure Relationships

January 14, 2025 at 10:00am

During the first few years of their lives, babies are tremendously impacted by the experiences that they have. Learn about the importance of connecting with your child and the impact parents, caregivers, and the environment has on a child’s development. Parents will learn how to strengthen their attachments to their children through age-appropriate play and activities.


  • Toddler Nutrition

January 8, 2025 at 10:00am

Ages 1-3 can be such a tricky time when it comes to food. They are starting to show food preferences, have changes in appetite, and are not always willing to sit down for a meal. On the other hand, it can be such a wonderful time to introduce your child to a world of different flavors and textures! Learn how to get your child’s relationship with food started on the right foot in this workshop, led by a CCE Suffolk Nutritionist.


Learn more/Register

Fostering Early Mental Health through Secure Relationships

Tuesday, January 14, 2025, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM


During the first few years of their lives, babies are tremendously impacted by the experiences that they have. Learn about the importance of connecting with your child and the impact parents, caregivers, and the environment has on a child’s development. Parents will learn how to strengthen their attachments to their children through age-appropriate play and activities.


Learn more

Managing Life After Retirement

Tuesday, January 14, 2025, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM


We all know that retirement has implications for our bank account. However, retirement is a big change that impacts our relationships, our sense of purpose and identity as well as our physical and emotional health. During this workshop we will review the stages of retirement and look at the four steps identified by researchers at Kansas State University that can improve one’s overall retirement experience by avoiding the most common challenges new retirees often face.


Learn more/Register

Certified Nursery & Landscape Professional (CNLP) Exam Review Course

Wednesday, January 22, 2025, 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM

Wednesday, January 29, 2025, 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM

Wednesday, February 5, 2025, 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM

Wednesday, February 12, 2025, 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM

Wednesday, February 19, 2025, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Wednesday, February 26, 2025, 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM


This course is designed to supplement study for landscape professionals interested in becoming a CNLP, but it’s also a great course for people new to ornamental horticulture. Select topics from the CNLP Training Manual will be reviewed. As a CNLP in New York State, you will become one of many green industry professionals who share a common desire to continue their education and grow as professionals. In order to qualify for the CNLP Program, you must have graduated from a recognized two- or four-year college with a degree in a horticulture-related field OR have at least three years working experience in the horticulture industry.


The CNLP exam is scheduled for March 27, 2025. You need to apply through the NYS Nursery Landscape Association (NYSNLA) to take the exam. There is a separate fee for the exam, which is administered by the NYSNLA.


Folks new to horticulture and landscape management are welcome and encouraged to participate even without intention of becoming a CNLP.


Learn more/Register

Turf Pest Workshop

Tuesday, January 28, 2025, 8:00 AM - 11:45 AM


This half day workshop will focus on turfgrass insect pests as well as an introduction to IPM approaches for turfgrass pest issues. Control options and how we’ll manage them without neonicotinoids in the future will be presented.


A discussion of the Birds & Bees Protection Act will explain the impact insecticides have on the environment including pollinators and our drinking water. This intimate workshop will provide a hands-on opportunity to see and identify all the pests discussed. The room will be set up with stations and there will be break -out groups to learn more about each of the pests, their life-cycles, damage signs, thresholds, timings and control options.


Three NYS DEC pesticide recertification credits for categories 3a , 3b and 10 will be offered. To obtain credits you must bring your Pesticide Applicator ID card with you, sign in at the registration table prior to the workshop and attend the entire session.


Learn more/Register

ArtSEA Create + Sip | Contour Lines and Watercolors of Bivalves

Thursday, January 30, 2025, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM


Come get creative with us at Cowfish Hampton Bays! Let's sip on some drinks while we learn all about our local bivalves and how to draw contour lines & paint watercolors of them. It's going to be a fun and relaxing evening filled with art and good company.


No experience is necessary, just bring your creativity and we'll provide all the materials you need. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to unleash your inner artist!


Learn more/Register

Silicon 101: Unlocking Plant Potential with a New Biostimulant

Wednesday, February 12, 2025, 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM


This half-day seminar will focus on the use of silicon in greenhouse production. Greenhouse producers, nursery growers, and others interested in the use of biostimulants in ornamental plant production are encourage to attend.


This event is sponsored by SoluSil LLC.


Learn more

Peconic Dunes Camp

Southold, NY


Located on the North Fork of Long Island, between the shores of the Long Island Sound and Great Pond, Peconic Dunes offers one-week overnight and day camp sessions. Activities include kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, snorkeling, fishing, archery, outdoor cooking, team sports, environmental sciences, crafts, photography, video, music, theatre, and more.


We are always looking for exemplary youth development, food, health service, and administrative professionals for the summer between June and August. Please review the below opportunities for 2025!


Aquatics Director


Assistant Camp Director for Wellness


Camp Counselor


CIT Coordinator


Day Camp Coordinator


Food Service Manager/Head Cook


Head Lifeguard


Health Assistant


Health Director


Housekeeper


Kitchen Workers


Program Director


Sr. Camp Counselor/Office Assistant


Unit Coordinator





View All Employment & Volunteer Opportunities Here

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Jacob Ocon, Communications Coordinator

jfo47@cornell.edu