This spring, the Seed to Supper program, organized by Cornell Cooperative Extension Madison County, blossomed into a remarkable success, transforming lives and gardens across the community. Over the course of six weeks, around 50 enthusiastic participants gathered at various host sites to learn the art and science of growing their own food, fostering a renewed sense of connection to nature and to each other.
Congratulations to our graduates! We are thrilled to celebrate the achievements of all our graduates, who demonstrated commitment and enthusiasm throughout the program:
From Brookfield: Evelyn Adkison, Gretchen Belden, Mike Kellog, Charles Schmidt, Sharon Schmidt, Krista Smith, Robert Snyder, Lorna Wilson, Alicia Wiswell and Peter Wiswell
From Canastota: Paige Biviano, Allison Cady, Kimberly Cady, Colette Coppola, Lois Cronk, Jeffery Dittuss, Melissa Jones, Jeffery Kelsey, Valerie Offutt, Jean Rybinski, Evan Sweeney and Maureen Wood
From Clear Path: Sharon Chandler, Trisha Donahue, Amber Inglis, Gloria Knasick, John Knasick, Alban Uryniak, Audrey Uryniak, Christina Woodruff and Ann Young
The impact of Seed to Supper was profoundly felt by participants. Jean Rybinski reflected on her experience, saying, “The question-and-answer times were incredibly helpful in addressing specific problems we all face. We felt like kids on our birthdays when we saw all those trays of veggies and marigolds! We swapped plants and shared plans on when, where and how to plant and what to do with our harvests. Every class was so enjoyable, and I looked forward to each one!”
Alicia Wiswell added, “So much great information! I loved the gifts and tools each week, and there were many practical teachings. I feel more equipped to be a successful gardener now. The food demonstrations and samples were also excellent – I’ve already made several of the healthy snacks for my friends and family, and they enjoyed them!”
Seed to Supper wouldn’t have been possible without the generous contributions from Renee’s Garden Seeds, Bentley Seeds, Baker Creek Heirloom Seed Company, A.M. Leonard and the financial support from Cornell Garden-Based Learning’s grant. Host sites such as Clear Path for Veterans, the First Baptist Church of Brookfield, Heritage Farm Inc. and the Canastota Public Library also played a vital role by welcoming participants. Nutrition lessons and snacks from the SNAP-Ed NY program, provided by dedicated SNAP Educators Whitney Kmetz, Alexis Woodcock and Carrie Forward, added tremendous value with their healthy and delicious offerings.
At the heart of Seed to Supper were its volunteers: Sam Leonard, Julie Poplaski, Joann Harrod, Connie Hasko, Sarah DeLand, Adriana Rodriguez, Lynne Wechsler and Judy Bartholomew. Their dedication, hard work and passion were the driving force behind the program’s success, from running sessions to nurturing seedlings.
New Initiatives: From Service to Soil and Community Gardens
The success of the Seed to Supper program has inspired exciting new initiatives. At Clear Path for Veterans, the program has led to the creation of an educational gardening group, From Service to Soil. Starting June 12, this group will meet every Wednesday at 1 p.m. at Clear Path, offering veterans the chance to learn about growing their own food alongside CCE Madison staff and volunteers.
Similarly, the Seed to Supper program at the First Baptist Church of Brookfield has resulted in the establishment of a small community garden on the church grounds. Community members interested in securing gardening space are encouraged to contact Ethan Cook at brookfieldpastor@gmail.com.
As CCE Madison reflects on this season, there is deep gratitude for everyone who contributed to the success of Seed to Supper 2024. From donors and educators to volunteers and participants, each played a crucial role in making this program a flourishing success. The organization looks forward to continuing this journey in the future, nurturing more gardens and fostering stronger connections within Madison County.
Most CCE offices in New York State have Master Gardener programs. Find yours at https://cals.cornell.edu/cornell-cooperative-extension/local-offices.
