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Connecticut Gardeners’ 2024 Calendar

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Calendar Cover

The UConn Master Gardeners have assembled a calendar for Connecticut gardeners! There are tips through every month on how to plan and maintain your garden for fresh blooms and abundant vegetables. This year there is additional information on supporting beneficial insects in the landscape, with tips on using integrated pest management, creating habitat for beneficials, and starting native plants by seed in the winter. All photos were submitted by local gardeners and selected by MG Volunteers during a statewide photo contest. MG Volunteers guided the design, information, and topics of this years calendar. We thank them for their work! 28 pages plus cover. 8.5in x 11in. Folded calendar. 

Purchase it today for pickup or delivery at our marketplace site.

$12 – Local Pickup at County Office (available Monday October 23rd)

$18 – Delivery

If this piques your interest for more gardening content, visit our articles at:

https://mastergardener.uconn.edu/resources/

Or the Home and Garden Factsheets:

https://homegarden.cahnr.uconn.edu/factsheets/

 

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Sample Page

On-Farm Field Day

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June 1, 1-4pm

Join us at Cecarellis Harrison Hill Farm for an on-farm field day!

186 Old Post Rd Northford, CT 06472

Register at s.uconn.edu/fieldday

Focus will be on low-to no-till implements, a new strip-type plastic culture implemented to battle climate change, along with other customized implements that fit the need for small farms.

Implements include:

  • Zone Tiller
  • No-Till Drill
  • Roller Crimper
  • No-Till Corn planter
  • Low Till Corn planter
  • Speed Disc Tiller
  • Plastic Layer

This event will include live in-field demonstrations of these implements!

Job Openings at UConn Extension

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Remember to check our jobs page with UConn Extension and consider the opportunity to join our team!  There are several new faculty and staff openings encompassing varying backgrounds and specialties. The current open positions are below.

Connecticut Saves Week

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Connecticut Saves Week is February 27th through March 3rd, 2023! Each day includes a financial theme that Connecticut Saves will be promoting alongside America Saves.

Monday, February 27: Saving Automatically,

Tuesday, February 28: Saving for the Unexpected,

Wednesday, March 1: Saving for Major Milestones,

Thursday, March 2: Paying Down Debt is Saving

Friday, March 3: Saving at Any Age.

Work towards being a more financially sound version of yourself! The overall goal of Connecticut Saves Week is to encourage people to take sound financial actions that will help them reach their goals. Visit Connecticut Saves on Tuesday, February 28, 10 AM -1 PM on the concourse at the Legislative Office Building for the Financial Education Expo hosted by the Connecticut Department of Banking.

On your journey to a better financial status, be aware that there are different methods and tools you can use to help you manage your money well. What works for one person may not work for you as your situation and what motivates you may be different. For example, have you used a spending plan (or budget)? Some people find using a spreadsheet helpful. Others like using an app. Based on what you know about yourself, how can you set yourself up for financial success?

A central part of financial literacy is pursuing the information you need to make wise decisions. Look at the intentions of authors that post specific tactics and methods to reach your financial goals. Financial information is widely available and much of it is for free. Make sure that the information you use is high quality and without bias toward specific products or services. Check out the library for personal finance books you can borrow.

America Saves will promote numerous free videos, articles, and resources to supplement each daily theme during America Saves Week. Each theme revolves around saving as the foundation for a more financially stable life. Setting up an automatic savings account can be a great way to motivate yourself to work towards your goals without putting in physical effort each month. A great way to encourage yourself to save is to take the Connecticut Saves Pledge. Located on the Connecticut Saves Website, it can take close to 5 minutes to sign yourself up. You can identify a goal, make a savings plan, and take the pledge to hold yourself accountable.

Once you’ve identified your goal, it is easier to save when you have something in mind to reach for. It can be a practical goal like a retirement fund or a social goal, like a concert. Saving isn’t limited to young adults and can help anyone achieve any financial goal. It is always important to remember that financial stability is not a linear journey. Financial setbacks happen. If you have set aside money for emergency savings, those funds can help you weather financial challenges more easily. Determining what your goals and priorities are now will help you begin to work on a plan for your financial future.

Seminarios Web para Trabajadores de la Industria de Invernaderos y Viveros Ornamentales – 2023

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Le invitamos a atender a estos seminarios web (webinars) en español diseñados para trabajadores en invernaderos y viveros de producción de plantas ornamentales.

El programa incluye ocho presentaciones/videos de 30 minutos cada una.

Marzo 20: Saneamiento de superficies duras entre ciclos de cultivos en invernaderos que producen plantas ornamentales – Rosa Raudales

Marzo 2: Control de malezas como parte de las prácticas de saneamiento en invernaderos que producen plantas ornamentales – Carla Caballero

Marzo 22: Prácticas de saneamiento durante la temporada de crecimiento – Mayra Toro

Marzo 23: Monitoreo de tarjetas adhesivas amarillas en invernaderos – Carla Caballero

Marzo 24: Pasos de como iniciar un programa de control biológico para plagas de insectos y ácaros – Carla Caballero

Marzo 27: Enfermedad o desorden abiótico? – Carla Caballero

Marzo 28: Como regar cultivos de contenedor – Rosa Raudales

Marzo 29: Alimentando plantas – Mayra Toro

Hora: 11: 20 – 11:50 am

La inscripción es gratis en: https://greenhouse.uconn.edu/seminarios/

Si tiene preguntas sobre este programa, contacte a Carla Caballero (carla.caballero@uconn.edu)

 

Webinars for Spanish-Speaking Workers in the Green Industry – 2023

We invite you to attend to these eight webinars in Spanish (only). The content is designed for workers who work in the production of ornamental crops in greenhouses and nurseries.

The program includes eight 30-minute presentations/videos.

March 20: Sanitation of hard surfaces between crops in greenhouse producing ornamental plants – Rosa Raudales

March 21: Weed control as part of sanitation practices in greenhouse producing ornamental plants– Carla Caballero

March 22: Sanitation practices during the growing season – Mayra Toro

March 23: Inspecting Yellow Sticky Cards – Carla Caballero

March 24: Steps to Get Started in Biological Control – Carla Caballero

March 27: Plant disease or disorder? – Carla Caballero

March 28: How to irrigate containers – Rosa Raudales

March 29: Feeding plants – Mayra Toro

Time: 11:20 – 11:50 am

Registration is free at: https://greenhouse.uconn.edu/seminarios/

For questions about this program, contact Carla Caballero (carla.caballero@uconn.edu).

EFNEP Program Assistant (Educational Program Assistant 1), Educational outreach – Fairfield

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Applications Closed

Search #: 497240
Work type: Full-time

Location: Fairfield County Extension Ctr

Categories: Academic Programs and Services

JOB SUMMARY

 

The UConn Fairfield County Extension Center located in Bethel, CT is seeking applications for a full-time Program Assistant, Education Outreach. The Program Assistant will be responsible for promoting and carrying out community-based nutrition, outreach, and youth development programs with limited resource families and youth in Fairfield County (in a designated geographic area). This position will provide community field work and administrative computer data entry assistance for the unit. The Program Assistant will work under the general supervision of the Fairfield County Extension Educator working with Community Nutrition. Evening and weekend hours will also be required based on program needs.

The College of Agriculture, Health, and Natural Resources at the University of Connecticut provides for a global sustainable future through scientific discovery, innovation, and community engagement. Our accomplishments result in safe, sustainable, and secure plant and animal production systems, healthier individuals and communities, greater protection and conservation of our environment and natural resources, balanced growth of the economy, and resilient local and global communities. We epitomize the role of the land-grant university which is to develop knowledge and disseminate it through the three academic functions of teaching, research, and outreach education. In so doing, we work to improve the lives of citizens of our state, region, and country. At present, our workforce consists of 315 faculty and staff. We serve 2,406 undergraduate and graduate students. We invite applications from people who share the same vision of academic excellence and customer service.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  1. Works with supervisor to plan, organize and implement regional program activities, which may include working irregular hours, including evenings and weekends. Recruits and teaches classes focused on nutrition, physical activity, food preparation, and food safety.   
  2. Collaborates with community agencies to establish partnerships.
  3. Under the direction of the supervisor, administers evaluation tools.
  4. Writes reports as directed.
  5. Serves as contact with the community and provides for informational needs such as publications, project program materials, and educational opportunities.
  6. Promotes community-based nutrition outreach and youth development programs through media and group presentations; recruits and provides educational opportunities for program members.
  7. May serve as project liaison to University offices/departments, public school officials, and community agencies.
  8. May assist supervisor to provide academic, personal, and financial advisement and to help maintain program caseload.
  9. Participates in staff meetings and in-service training, which may include evening and/or weekend hours.
  10. Performs related duties as required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

  1. Four years of profession-based experience in community nutrition or related field; or Bachelor’s degree in a related field and up to one year of related experience; or Associate’s degree and two to three years of related experience.
  2. Demonstrated background in community health and wellness, which includes experience working with families and youth or other disciplines related to program needs.
  3. Strong evidence of interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills.
  4. Strong technology skills that include demonstrated use of Microsoft Office and experience with data entry.
  5. Demonstrated experience with social media outreach.
  6. Willingness and ability to work weekend and evening hours as needed.
  7. Willingness and ability to travel within Fairfield County for programming activities and related meetings.
  8. Must have available personal transportation and a valid driver’s license.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  1. Oral and written fluency in Spanish.
  2. Experience with teaching and/or public speaking.
  3. Experience establishing and maintaining community partnerships.

APPOINTMENT TERMS

This is a full-time position located at the Fairfield County Extension Center. This position is grant-funded and has an end-date that is subject to annual re-appointments contingent upon satisfactory performance and funding availability. The position will be based at the Fairfield County Extension Center, however regular travel within the region will be required. Occasional in-state travel to other UConn campuses, including Storrs, may be required in support of program needs. The University offers a competitive salary, commensurate with the successful candidate’s background and experience, outstanding benefits, including employee and dependent tuition waivers at UConn, and a highly desirable work environment. For additional information regarding benefits visit: https://hr.uconn.edu/benefits-beyond-pay/. Other rights, terms, and conditions of employment are contained in the collective bargaining agreement between the University of Connecticut and the University of Connecticut Professional Employees Association (UCPEA).

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

Employment of the successful candidate is contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment criminal background check.

TO APPLY

Please apply online at https://hr.uconn.edu/jobs, Staff Positions, Search #497240 to upload a resume, cover letter, and contact information for three (3) professional references. Screening of applications will begin immediately.   

This job posting is scheduled to be removed at 11:55 p.m. Eastern time on March 23, 2023. 

All employees are subject to adherence to the State Code of Ethics which may be found at http://www.ct.gov/ethics/site/default.asp.

The University of Connecticut is committed to building and supporting a multicultural and diverse community of students, faculty and staff. The diversity of students, faculty and staff continues to increase, as does the number of honors students, valedictorians and salutatorians who consistently make UConn their top choice. More than 100 research centers and institutes serve the University’s teaching, research, diversity, and outreach missions, leading to UConn’s ranking as one of the nation’s top research universities. UConn’s faculty and staff are the critical link to fostering and expanding our vibrant, multicultural and diverse University community. As an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity employer, UConn encourages applications from women, veterans, people with disabilities and members of traditionally underrepresented populations.

Advertised: Feb 21 2023 Eastern Standard Time
Applications close: Mar 23 2023 Eastern Daylight Time

Outreach Assistant (Educational Program Assistant 2)

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Outreach Assistant (Educational Program Assistant 2)

APPLICATIONS CLOSED

Search #: 497128
Work type: Part-time
Location: Tolland County Extension Center
Categories: Academic Programs and Services

JOB SUMMARY

UConn Extension is seeking a part-time Outreach Assistant (Education Program Assistant 2) who will coordinate the activities and provide support for the University’s farm-to-school outreach programming in partnership with the CT Farm to School Collaborative (CTFTSC). The mission of the CTFTSC is to utilize collective knowledge and resources to shift power and create equitable opportunities for locally produced food and food education in Connecticut schools and early childhood centers. This position works with limited supervision from the Extension Educator in Food Systems in regard to administrative duties and budget management. The position will work in close coordination with a 10-member Steering Committee of the CTFTSC in regard to communications, outreach, and network-building. The position is based at UConn Extension’s Tolland County Center in Vernon, CT with an option for telecommuting on a hybrid basis with the expectation to report onsite as needed. Occasional evenings and weekends are required to support program needs.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Leading and executing events and activities, including monthly meetings, workshops, seminars, and retreats, in an effort to increase visibility and momentum for farm-to-school in CT.
  • Creating, preparing, and updating outreach and promotional materials to inform and educate the public and policymakers about farm-to-school.
  • Serving as a liaison and first point of contact with stakeholders and potential partners; responding to inquiries from external groups.
  • Performing outreach presentations to partners and stakeholders to maintain stable and growing relationships in support of farm-to-school.
  • Representing UConn Extension and CTFTSC at stakeholder events and with external groups.
  • Generating meeting calendars, setting deadlines, and managing timelines.
  • Entering evaluation information into reporting systems and preparing material for progress reports.
  • Developing print, digital, and email content, e-newsletters, social media campaigns, and web content.
  • Assisting with the overall strategy for building program-related networks and relationships with stakeholders.
  • Assisting in the management of budgets, monitoring expenditures, and grant writing.
  • Ensuring that Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility are modeled and upheld by the program.
  • Performing other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

  1. Bachelor’s degree in an academic discipline appropriate to the field of specialization and two to three years of professional experience related to program specialization; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  2. Proven ability to apply a range of concepts, techniques, and practices to carry out technical program objectives.
  3. Excellent written and oral communication skills.
  4. Demonstrated ability to manage and sustain relationships with diverse stakeholders.
  5. Familiarity with social media platforms and management, specifically Instagram and Facebook.
  6. Ability to facilitate meetings and presentations with large groups.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  1. A passion for community, food systems, agriculture, food justice, and youth leadership development.
  2. A clear understanding of farm-to-school’s potential to impact community food systems, agriculture, food justice, and education.
  3. Relevant volunteer or work experience in both a school setting and also as a farmer/gardener to better relate to farm-to-school from both sides.
  4. Demonstrated commitment to antiracism, food justice, and the values of justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion.
  5. Detailed work ethic, demonstrated ability to self-direct while working collaboratively
  6. Demonstrated experience in managing budgets
  7. Ability to approach responsibilities and tasks with strategic thinking.
  8. Skilled in managing multiple priorities and projects while keeping track of details and long-term goals.
  9. Proven experience in program management and program development skills
  10. Spanish language. Bilingual abilities are a plus.
  11. Familiarity with graphic design programs such as Canva, as well as web-based platforms such as Wix and MailChimp.

APPOINTMENT TERMS

This is a part-time, end-dated position with the possibility of renewal subject to performance and funding. Telecommuting on a hybrid basis may be allowed subject to authorization and University policy. The University offers a competitive salary, and outstanding benefits, including employee and dependent tuition waivers at UConn, and a highly desirable work environment. For additional information regarding benefits visit: https://hr.uconn.edu/benefits-beyond-pay/. Other rights, terms, and conditions of employment are contained in the collective bargaining agreement between the University of Connecticut and the University of Connecticut Professional Employees Association (UCPEA).

TO APPLY

Please apply online at https://hr.uconn.edu/jobs, Staff Positions, Search #497128 to upload a resume, cover letter that addresses how you meet the minimum and any preferred qualifications of the position, and contact information for three (3) professional or work-related references.

This job posting is scheduled to be removed at 11:55 p.m. Eastern time on March 22, 2023.

All employees are subject to adherence to the State Code of Ethics which may be found at http://www.ct.gov/ethics/site/default.asp.

The University of Connecticut is committed to building and supporting a multicultural and diverse community of students, faculty and staff. The diversity of students, faculty and staff continues to increase, as does the number of honors students, valedictorians and salutatorians who consistently make UConn their top choice. More than 100 research centers and institutes serve the University’s teaching, research, diversity, and outreach missions, leading to UConn’s ranking as one of the nation’s top research universities. UConn’s faculty and staff are the critical link to fostering and expanding our vibrant, multicultural and diverse University community. As an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity employer, UConn encourages applications from women, veterans, people with disabilities and members of traditionally underrepresented populations.

Advertised: Feb 20 2023 Eastern Standard Time
Applications close: Mar 22 2023 Eastern Daylight Time

Black History Month Series: Faith

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Black background with green yellow and red stripes, the title "black history" and the words "black history month 2023: faith" A photo of Harriet Tubman and description of her assisting enslaved people to freedom

The theme for this week is Faith.

 

The Black church has been a foundation of faith and resistance, as well as a spiritual center, place of worship, cultural and social center. Churches and other faith organizations also provided a safe haven for enslaved people, such as:

👉🏾Physical safety

👉🏾Food and clothing

👉🏾Encouragement, hope and faith

👉🏾Teaching and learning

👉🏾Place for organization

👉🏾One of the many sites for “underground railroads”,  a secret network for routes to freedom.

 

Reference:

https://time.com/5939921/henry-lous-gates-american-history-black-church/ (accessed 2.5.23)

📷Credit: https://www.womenshistory.org/education-resources/biographies/harriet-tubman (accessed 2.8.23)

Feb/2023 Written and created by: U. R. Taylor, MS, RDN, CDN and Lindsey Brush

 

#BlackHistoryMonth #AskUConn #UConnEFNEP #UConnExtension

Business Manager Job Opportunity with Foxwoods

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Job Details

Description

Under the direction of the Executive Director Farm, the incumbent is responsible for designing business strategies and managing day to day operations to ensure company efficiency. Bachelor’s degree in business, business management or related fields. Five (5) years of experience with three (3) of those years in a management position. Experience in agricultural development and distribution is preferred. Knowledge of agriculture/farming techniques and technology equipment and sustainable agriculture practices is preferred. Must have hands-on experience in farming/agriculture operations and/or financial management. Retail Experience preferred. Strong interpersonal skills, attention to details and accuracy, and ability to work independently or as part of a team. Must interact with various internal and external individuals/organizations through strong oral and written communication skills. Must have and maintain a valid driver’s license.

Click here to apply!