Apple Tree Pruning at Cattaraugus Branch

Some days it’s hard to believe it’s really spring because the wind blows cold here in Southwestern New York, especially when you are living close to Lake Erie.  For folks in the Cattaraugus Branch, the coming of Spring means pruning the apple orchard located behind the church. This year some members of the Seneca Nation helped in the effort.  There is so much diabetes on the reservation that for the coming year the nation has adopted the slogan, “Food Is Our Medicine.”  The nation’s leaders have planned many activities to stress the importance of healthy eating habits and using lots of fruits and vegetables.  Besides their efforts in encouraging people on the reservation to plant their own gardens, the nation joined the Latter-Day Saints at the apple orchard to be taught proper fruit tree pruning and get some hands on experience.  I was happy to see Sister Vicky Seneca attending the event.  She recently lost her grandson under tragic circumstances and it was good to see her there.  I spent the time mostly inside setting up the luncheon while Elder Jeppesen raked branches. The event was well attended and provided a good opportunity to get better acquainted.