Chad Ripberger – 4-H – Rutgers Cooperative Extension

Dr. Chris Obropta, Rutgers Cooperative Extension (RCE) Water Resources Program

Roughly 70 high school students – from New Brunswick, Newark, Paterson, Passaic, Rahway and Trenton – took part in Rutgers’ 8th Annual 4-H Summer Science Program in July… “It’s a great opportunity for them to explore a wide variety of STEM disciplines,” Chad Ripberger, co-director of the program, told New Brunswick Today. “Most teenagers have a very limited understanding of what scientists and engineers do and of the many diverse and exciting STEM career opportunities available to them.”

Amidst the rides, carnival faire, and live music, it might be easy to miss the central theme of the Middlesex County Fair, which began August 1 and runs through August 7… Bill Hlubik, an agricultural and resource management agent and director of the Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Middlesex County’s EARTH Center, said the fair was one of many opportunities for residents to learn more about whom their food comes from. “We’re seeing a resurgence, especially in the past several years, of people interested in knowing where their food comes from and wanting to connect with local farmers,” Hlubik said. “If you get fresh produce … it’s the highest quality in terms of nutrients and flavors.