2024 National Grange Convention Program

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CONVENTION PROGRAM November 11-16, 2024

Table of Contents Welcome

4

National Grange President

4

Mayor Robert Gallagher

5

Visit Quad Cities

6

Grange Supply Store

7

Social Media Sharing

8

What You Need to Know

9

Hotel Floor Plan

12

Convention Center Floor Plan

13

Session Committees

14

National Grange Staff

15

Schedule

16

Workshops

22

Convention Speakers

23

Showcase

26

Distinguished Granges

27

National Grange Officers

28

Assembly of Demeter

29

Convention Sponsors

31

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The 158th National Grange Convention

WELCOME

National Grange President Welcome to the 158th annual convention of the National Grange!

The 158th – what a testament to our legacy, our mission, our resilience, and our adaptability! For 158 years, we’ve been champions of rural America, advocates for our communities, and steadfast in our mission to make a difference.

This year’s convention is packed with energy, excitement, and opportunity! There’s something for everyone, from inspiring speakers to innovative workshops, and, of course, plenty of time to connect and share with fellow Grangers. This is your chance to recharge, reconnect, and reignite the passion that makes our Grange family so extraordinary.

Together, we’ll celebrate our past, embrace the present, and chart a bold course for the future of the National Grange.

Thank you for your unwavering dedication and spirit!

Thanks to the Midwest Region (Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin) for your excellent collaboration, positivity, energy, and hard work to create a memorable experience – an experience loaded with opportunities to learn and to grow and to have fun!

More than ever, the world and our country need more individuals who carry our uncompromised Grange values of civility, service, and faith in their hearts, their words, and their actions. The Grange has always been more than just another organization; it is a family, a network of support, and a beacon of hope for many. Your continued commitment and dedication to the Grange and our communities do not go unnoticed and are very much appreciated and necessary.

Thank you for being part of this convention. Your attendance and participation is an indication of the enduring spirit and vitality of the National Grange. It also means you have resolved to be part of the groundswell that will take the Grange onward and upward for the next generations to expand and enjoy.

Together, let us celebrate our accomplishments, renew our commitments, and pave the way for the future success of the Grange.

Thank you for being Grange Strong!

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With Grange pride,

Christine E. Hamp, President 4

Bettendorf, Iowa - November 12-16, 2024

WELCOME

Welcome to Bettendorf To: Attendees of the 158th Annual National Grange Convention On behalf of the city of Bettendorf, it is my distinct pleasure to welcome you to Bettendorf for the 158th Annual National Grange Convention, November 11 - 16, 2024, at the Isle Casino Hotel and Convention Center. The city of Bettendorf is proud to be one of the Quad Cities’ cool, creative, connected and prosperous communities, and to be a partner of Visit Quad Cities! We are honored to have you as our guests, and we are pleased that you have brought the excitement of agricultural awareness to our city!

While you are staying in Bettendorf, we invite you to enjoy the many amenities that our premier city and the surrounding cities have to offer. From restaurants, shopping, gaming, and parks to historical and cultural attractions, I am certain the Quad Cities will have something for everyone.

Be sure to take note of the new I-74 River Bridge that connects our Iowa and Illinois communities. It is absolutely stunning, most especially in the evening when it is lit up for all to see.

Again, welcome to our city! Thank you for choosing Bettendorf. We hope you enjoy your stay.

Sincerely, Sincerely,

Mayor Robert S. Gallagher

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The 158th National Grange Convention

WELCOME

Welcome to the Quad Cities Welcome to the Quad Cities!

On behalf of Visit Quad Cities and the entire Quad Cities region, I am thrilled to welcome you to the 158th National Grange Convention at the Isle Casino Hotel Bettendorf.

We are proud to host this special gathering of Grange members from across the country in our vibrant and welcoming region.

As you experience the Quad Cities, we invite you to discover our rich history, diverse cultural offerings, and beautiful riverfront along the mighty Mississippi River. From the historic Rock Island Arsenal to the creative energy of the Figge Art Museum and our diverse culinary scene, the Quad Cities has something for everyone. We encourage you to explore all the opportunities our community offers during your stay.

We are honored to play a part in this important annual convention, celebrating the Grange’s longstanding commitment to agriculture, community, and civic leadership. Thank you for being here, and we wish you a productive and memorable convention experience.

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Sincerely, Dave Herrell President and CEO Visit Quad Cities

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Bettendorf, Iowa - November 12-16, 2024

GRANGE SUPPLY STORE

Find us in the Showcase!

Visit the Grange Supply Store for some deals and steals!

Offering some deep discounts on a wide range of supplies for your Grange meetings, awards, jewelry, and more!

Products include:

• • • • • • • •

Grange Socks “Lift Up Your Hands” songbook Dues Envelopes Annual Membership Card Book Grange Belt Buckles Grange Dues Receipt Book Junior Grange Manuals Guidelines for Grange Leaders

• •

Grange 10-inch Decal Jewelry including: » 4th Degree Pins » Junior Grange enamel pins » Years of service pins from 5-80 years » Golden Sheaf pins » Past Master pins & buttons » Sash / Lapel pins » 7th Degree pins • and more!

Can’t find what you’re looking for in the on-site store? Check in with Loretta Washington or make your orders online at grangestore.org. Items ordered during session will ship after Thanksgiving.

Items are priced to move - you won’t find a better discount!

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The 158th National Grange Convention

SOCIAL MEDIA SHARING

Follow us on Social Media National Grange @nationalgrangeofficial @national_grange_youth | @national_junior_grange @nationalgrange National Grange

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Share your National Grange experiences and follow along so you don’t miss a thing!

Throughout the week of the convention, be sure to take to social media to share your experiences. From photos to video clips to behind-the-scenes information, we want to see it! Use the hashtag #ng158 so we can easily find (and share) your posts. You may see your own photos or videos in the Grange TM Today! newsletter, Good Day! magazine, or promotional materials for future National Grange events.

The National Grange Communication Fellows, SHIPmates, Youth Team, staff members, and other guests will be running the National Grange social media channels during the week, so please tune in so you don’t miss a second of the events around the convention. From banquets to workshops and special events, there’s plenty to see and experience.

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Livestreams of several events will also be shared across social media platforms during and after the convention, so be sure to tell your Grange (and non-Grange) friends and family back home that they can be a part of the action as well. Follow along and share the excitement!

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Bettendorf, Iowa - November 12-16, 2024

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

What You Need to Know > Registration Desk (Business Center)

Staffed by volunteers on the host committee, this is the first place to go for all convention information.

Stop by this desk to pick up all registration packets. For registration issues, please see the National Office.

Monday: Tuesday: Wednesday: Thursday: Friday: Saturday:

2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

8:00 a.m. – noon

> Convention Name Badges

To participate in convention events, including workshops, exhibits, session, Grange Recognition Night, and the hospitality room, all convention attendees must wear a convention name badge. In addition, all meals require tickets for entry, which are located behind your nametag.

> National Grange Office (Blackhawk)

This is the location of the member services and concierge services for delegates and national officers. Please see Jody or Jodi Ann Cameron, National Grange Convention Liaisons, for all issues related to meeting room scheduling, audio/visual needs, or hotel catering arrangements. For room reservation issues, please see the front desk.

Sunday: Monday: Tuesday: Wednesday: Thursday: Friday: Saturday:

9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

8:00 a.m. – noon

> Front Desk of Hotel Please direct all of your questions and concerns related to your sleeping rooms to the front desk.

9

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

The 158th National Grange Convention

> Hospitality Room (St. Croix - in the hotel) Your convention host region provides refreshments daily. Join us in the Hospitality Room for relaxing, snacking and spending time with your fellow Grangers.

Monday: Tuesday: Wednesday : Thursday: Friday: Saturday: &

2:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

7:30 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.

7:30 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.

7:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

7:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

7:00 a.m. – noon 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

> Region Host Office (Isle) Your Host Committee office serves as the member service desk and concierge service for all conventiongoers. Book a return ride to the airport, view local restaurant menus and area maps, arrange for special transportation, and more!

Monday: Tuesday: Wednesday: Thursday: Friday: Saturday:

&

9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

9:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

> Seventh Degree Take or witness the Seventh Degree on Saturday, Nov. 16th. The cost to take the Seventh Degree is $30.

It is free to witness the Seventh Degree for any Seventh Degree member.

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*Applications available all week at registration desk for both the Sixth and Seventh Degrees.

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Bettendorf, Iowa - November 12-16, 2024

Registration National Grange Office Host Region Office Session Meeting Showcase Hospitality Room Communications Office (Fellows) SHIPmates Office Youth & Junior Activities

Business Center Blackhawk Isle Quad Cities Iowa St. Croix (hotel) LeClaire Bettendorf Grand Ballroom Salon C National Grange Recognition Night Quad Cities Sixth Degree Quad Cities Seventh Degree Quad Cities Meals Grand Ballroom (hotel) Committee Meetings Illinois

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

> Event Rooms

> Showcase (Iowa) The Showcase is the place to see the best programs of the states, see winning contest entries, learn about the National Grange’s departments, and so much more. You can also learn about the many programs the National Grange has worked on this past year, including partnerships with USAging, PCORI, the United States Patent & Trademark Office, Quilts of Valor, the FCC, and others. You can also support the GROW Club by bidding on raffle items and much more here. A full list of Showcase participants can be found on page 26.

This year, the “Oldies but Goodies” stand features many special artifacts uncovered from the National Grange Headquarters during our move - stop in to take a look and own a unique piece of Grange history!

Tuesday: Wednesday: Thursday: Friday: Saturday:

1:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

8:00 a.m. – noon

11

12

SALON B

SALON C

CONCOURSE

GRAND BALLROOM

Dimensions

Meals will be held here

Room

SALON A

RIVIERA

MONTE CARLO

HOTEL & ST. CROIX ROOM 

Hospitality Room in St. Croix

RIO DE JANEIRO

Seating Capacity*

AREA

PREFUNCTION

ISLE HOTEL FLOOR PLAN

Worskhops will be held in these rooms

Waterfront Convention Center

KELLER'S® AMERICAN  GRILL

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The 158th National Grange Convention

oom

rf

240

5,830 STATE BALLROOM375

110 x 53

774

2,915

55 x 53

43 x 18

2,915

55 x 53

19 x 40'

STAGE

297

400

6,490

110 x 59

ILLINOIS ROOM

32

160

160

30

144

144

555

800

BUSINESS CENTER

RESTROOMS

BLACKHAWK ROOM

75

300

300

600

650 LOBBY

N/A

N/A

ROOM

U-Shaped LeCLAIRE

4,800 sq. ft.

1,700

Theater

PARKING LOT

N/A

(8 x 10 Booth)

18

18

40 40

36 PARKING LOT

35

78

Trade Show

15

BUSINESS

N/A

WATERFRONT

SM

IOWA ROOM

SM

Seating Capacity*

CENTER

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ISLE

Classroom

QUAD-CITIES 110 x 129 ROOM14,190

Banquet

Sq. Ft.

Ft.

Dimensions

4,284 sq. ft.

CONCOURSE

RESTROOMS

LeCLAIRE ROOM

Stairs and Elevator to Hotel & Casino

PARKING LOT

is d

The Connector Crew is comprised of Grange members charged with ensuring that each and every registrant feels connected and that their attendance gets off to a great start.

You will find the Connector Crew folks, apparent by their bright blue vests, in the convention registration area and the hospitality room.

CONVENTION CENTER

LOBBY

4,800 sq. ft.

Meet the Connector Crew, make some new friends, and enjoy every bit of this year’s Convention!

TROOMS

ILLINOIS ROOM

4,800 sq. ft.

LOBBY

WATERFRONT

ROOM

BETTENDORF ROOM

CONVENTIONC CENTER O N VFLOOR E N TPLAN ION

STATE BALLROOM

4,284 sq. ft.

BETTENDORF ROOM

ILLINOIS ROOM

STAGE

Showcase

CONCOURSE

ISLE

IOWA ROOM

BUSINESS CENTER

Connector Crew

STATE BALLROOM

ROOM QUAD-CITIES ROOM

Session Room

Stairs and Elevator to Hotel & Casino

Committees

RESTROOMS

STAGE

19 x 40'

BLACKHAWK ROOM

19 x 40'

Bettendorf, Iowa - November 12-16, 2024

ROO ISLE

13

SESSION COMMITTEES

The 158th National Grange Convention

Session Committees Agriculture

Education & Health

Kevin Cooksley, NE - Chair Lynette Schaeffer, IL - Sec. Melanie Bostwick, KS Wayne Campbell, PA Mike Griffin, ME Melvin Phelps, NY Allen Stiles, MD

Mark Gibbons, DC - Chair Debbie Campbell, PA - Sec. Ann Bercher, MN Christopher Dean, MA Danielle Hartley, RI Eileen Javaux, ID Barb Narvel, DE Debbie Russell, OH Anna Seuberth, DE Tricia Taylor, NH

Audit & Budget John Benedik, NJ - Chair Joyce Billquist, MT - Sec. Dwight Baldwin, IA Duane Hamp, WA Susan Hanks, CA Chip Narvel, DE Buddy Overstreet, TX Judy Sherrod, TN Sarah Strawder, KS

Citizenship Christopher Johnston, MI - Chair Corey Spence, MA - Sec. Robert Buck, CT Crystal Allen, NC Harry Greer, CO Sherry Harriman, ME Mike Russell, OH Martha Stefenoni, CA Debbie Vine, WI Gary Wardle, CO

Conservation

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Barbara Foster, WV - Chair Kay Stiles, MD - Sec. Matt Espenshade, PA Tom Gwin, WA Sonny Hays-Eberts, OR Richard Javaux, ID Don Schaeffer, IL Stephen Seuberth, DE Billy Shufeldt, OK

14

Grange Growth Richard Stonebraker, MD - Chair Joe Stefenoni, CA - Sec. Kathy Baldwin, IA Marty Billquist, MT Donna Keeton, OK Karen Overstreet, TX Pete Pompper, NJ Jay Sexton, OR Jason Smith, IN

Grange Law Walter Hartley, RI - Chair Cindy Greer, CO - Sec. Roger Bostwick, KS Kathy Gibson, MA Joe Goodrich, VT Sandra Green, NY Susan Noah, OR Nathan Strawder, KS Kathy Wardle, CO Leroy Watson, NH

Labor, Judiciary, & Transportation David Allen, NC - Chair Mark Noah, OR - Sec. Glenn Gibson, MA Kendal Holden, VT Connie Johnston, MI Brittney Pittman, WA Ted Powell, CT James Taylor, VA Cheryl Watson, NH

Bettendorf, Iowa - November 12-16, 2024

President

Christine E. Hamp

Legislative Director and Executive Director, Grange Advocacy

Burton Eller

Communications Director

Philip J Vonada

Membership and Leadership Development Director and Grange Foundation Associate

Amanda Brozana

IT Director

Stephanie Wilkins

Sales, Benefits, Programs and Membership Recognition Director

Loretta Washington

Convention Liaisons

Jody Cameron & Jodi Ann Cameron

NATIONAL GRANGE STAFF

National Grange Staff

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The 158th National Grange Convention

CONVENTION SCHEDULE

Convention Schedule

Grange Youth Programming listed in green.

Junior Grange Programming listed in red.

Monday, November 11 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

National Grange Office

Blackhawk

8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Executive Committee Meeting Riviera

8:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Showcase Setup 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Iowa/Concourse

9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Delegate Registration Blackhawk

9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Region Host Office

Isle

2:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Hospitality Room

St. Croix (Hotel) Workshops ongoing throughout the day

11:30 a.m.

Host Banquet

Marina aboard the Celebration Belle be at the Marina by 11:15 a.m.

2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Registration Open Business Center

2:15 p.m. – 5:15 p.m. Delegate & Officers Meeting, Quad Cities and Grange Foundation Meeting

for all Officers & Delegates 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Welcome Reception Concourse

7:30 p.m. (as needed) Committee meetings Illinois

7:30 p.m.

National Officers Rehearsal

Quad Cities

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Tuesday, November 12 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Isle

16

Region Host Office

Bettendorf, Iowa - November 12-16, 2024 Hospitality Room

St. Croix (Hotel)

8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

National Grange Office

Blackhawk

8:00 a.m. (as needed)

Committee Meetings

Illinois

9:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

CONVENTION SCHEDULE

7:30 a.m – 9:00 p.m.

Registration Open

Business Center Workshops ongoing throughout the day

9:00 a.m.

Delegate Group Photo & Headshots

9:30 a.m.

Tour - Lagomarcino’s Confectionery

Gather at North Tower entrance/reception at 9:00 a.m.

10:00 a.m.

Quad Cities

Opening of the 158th Annual Convention in the Seventh Degree

(Seventh Degree members wishing to witness the opening should be in Quad Cities by 9:45 a.m.)

~10:30 a.m. Admission of Fourth Degree Members

Presentation of Host Region Flags 11:00 p.m.

President’s Address, Christine E. Hamp

(session at ease)

Reconvene Session in Fourth Degree President’s Internal Report noon 12:15 p.m.

Grand Ballroom

12:30 p.m.

Session Recesses Advocacy Luncheon

Speaker: Phil Lehmkuhler, NTIA

Tour - Rock Island Arsenal

Gather at North Tower entrance/reception at 12:00 p.m.

1:00 p.m.

Showcase & Grange Store open

Iowa

2:00 p.m.

Session Reconvenes

Quad Cities

5:30 p.m.

7:30 (as needed)

Session Closes Committee Meetings

Illinois

7:30 p.m.

National Officers Rehearsal

Quad Cities

8:00 p.m.

Monte Carlo

National Grange Story Slam hosted by the Communication Fellows 17

The 158th National Grange Convention

CONVENTION SCHEDULE

Wednesday, November 13 7:30 a.m – 9:00 p.m.

Hospitality Room

St. Croix (Hotel)

8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

National Grange Office

Blackhawk

8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Region Host Office

Isle

8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Registration Open

Business Center

8:30 a.m.

Session Opens

Quad Cities

9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Showcase & Grange Store open

Iowa Workshops ongoing throughout the day

9:00 a.m.

Tour - Quilt Shop Hop

Gather at North Tower entrance/reception at 8:30 a.m.

9:30 a.m.

Tour - Figge Art Museum (Team Building)

Gather at North Tower entrance/reception at 9:00 a.m.

noon 12:15 - 1:30 p.m.

Session Recesses Salute to Agriculture Luncheon

Grand Ballroom Speaker: Tom Vilsack, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture

2:00 p.m.

5:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Session Reconvenes Youth Check-in & Orientation

Grand Ballroom Salon C

5:30 p.m.

6:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Session Recesses Youth Officer Practice

Quad Cities

7:30 p.m.

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Quad Cities

Session Reconvenes Roll Call of States Quilts of Valor presentation Celebration of Remembrance Grange Hall of Fame presentation

9:30 p.m.

Session Closes

9:30 p.m.

Youth Hang Out

Grand Ballroom Salon C

9:30 p.m. (as needed) Illinois 18

Committee Meetings

Bettendorf, Iowa - November 12-16, 2024

7:30 a.m – 5:00 p.m.

CONVENTION SCHEDULE

Thursday, November 14 Hospitality Room

St. Croix (Hotel)

8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

National Grange Office

Blackhawk

8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Region Host Office

Isle

8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Registration Open Business Center 8:30 a.m.

Session Opens

Quad Cities

Election of Officers

9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Showcase & Grange Store open

Iowa Workshops ongoing throughout the day

9:30 a.m.

Youth Tour - John Deere Davenport Works

Gather at North Tower entrance/reception at 9:00 a.m.

noon 12:15 – 1:30 p.m.

Session Recesses Buffet Lunch

Grand Ballroom

12:30 p.m.

Tour - John Deere Davenport Works

Gather at North Tower entrance/reception at 12:00 p.m.

1:30 p.m.

Tour - John Deere Pavilion

Gather at North Tower entrance/reception at 1:00 p.m.

2:00 p.m.

Session Reconvenes

Quad Cities

2:30 p.m.

Tour - Davenport Distillery

Gather at North Tower entrance/reception at 2:00 p.m.

5:00 p.m.

Session Closes

5:00 p.m.

Assembly of Demeter Business Meeting

Quad Cities

6:00 p.m.

Youth Officers Practice

Quad Cities

7:30 - 9:00 p.m.

Grand Ballroom Salon C

9:30 - 11:00 p.m.

Youth Party / Gathering open to all

Youth Hang Out

Grand Ballroom Salon C

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The 158th National Grange Convention

CONVENTION SCHEDULE

Friday, November 15 7:30 a.m – 5:00 p.m.

Hospitality Room

St. Croix (Hotel)

8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

National Grange Office

Blackhawk

8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Region Host Office

Isle

8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Registration Open Business Center 8:30 a.m.

Session Opens / Youth Opening Juniors attend

Youth & Junior Department Reports Quad Cities

9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Showcase & Grange Store open

Iowa

9:30 a.m.

Tour - Cinnamon Ridge Farms

Gather at North Tower entrance/reception at 9:00 a.m.

noon 12:15 – 1:30 p.m.

Session Recesses Past Voting Delegates Lunch

Grand Ballroom

12:30 p.m.

Junior Tour - Putnam Museum

Gather at North Tower entrance/reception at 12:00 p.m.

2:00 p.m.

Session Reconvenes

Quad Cities

2:00 - 4:00 p.m.

Riviera

3:00 p.m.

Sign-a-Song & Public Speaking Judging open to the public

Installation of Officers

Quad Cities

5:00 p.m.

5:30 - 7:00 p.m.

Session Closes G.R.O.W. Club Social & Meeting

Grand Ballroom Salon B

7:30 - 9:30 p.m.

National Grange Recognition Night

Quad Cities

9:30 p.m.

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Quad Cities Concourse

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Ice Cream Social

7:00 a.m – 12:00 p.m. Hospitality Room 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

St. Croix (Hotel)

8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. National Grange Office Blackhawk

8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

9:30 - 10:00 p.m.

Region Host Office

Isle

8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Registration Open Business Center

CONVENTION SCHEDULE

Saturday, November 16

CONVENTION SCHEDULE

Bettendorf, Iowa - November 12-16, 2024

8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Showcase & Grange Store Iowa

8:00 a.m Outside St. Croix

10:00 a.m.

Grange Foundation Board Meeting Board members only

Sixth Degree Conferral

Quad Cities (Candidates should arrive at least 10 minutes early)

11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Junior Activities Day Rio de Janeiro

1:00 - 3:00 p.m.

Seventh Degree Conferral

Quad Cities (Candidates should arrive at least 10 minutes early)

3:15 - 4:00 p.m.

Convocation of the Assembly of Demeter

Quad Cities

6:00 p.m.

Grange Strong Celebration Banquet & Foundation Auction

(Doors open at 5:30 p.m.)

Grand Ballroom

7:45 - 9:00 p.m.

Grange Trivia Contest

Grand Ballroom

Have a safe trip home, and we will see you next year!

Many Thanks to the State Granges of the Midwest Region for Hosting!

Iowa Illinois Indiana Michigan

Minnesota Ohio Wisconsin 21

WORKSHOPS

The 158th National Grange Convention We encourage you to attend many of our more than 60 individual workshops on a wide variety of topics, designed for Grangers of all ages to gain skills and knowledge to take home. Workshops range from Grange-related skills (like parliamentary procedure or ideas for Grange Secretaries) to hands-on (Board & Brush, cookie decorating, river rock painting), to educational (Wreaths Across America, Honor Flights, etc.), and everything in between. A few workshops require pre-registration, but the vast majority are free for all attendees.

To view the most up-to-date schedule, please visit https://grange.biz/158workshops or scan the QR code. Daily schedules will also be posted at the Registration Desk, in the Hospitality Room, and in other locations around our Convention.

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Workshops are held in the Rio de Janeiro, Monte Carlo, and Riviera rooms, just off the concourse between the Convention Center and the North Tower.

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Bettendorf, Iowa - November 12-16, 2024

Dave Herrell

President & CEO, Visit Quad Cities

Dave Herrell has served as the President and CEO of Visit Quad Cities since 2018, leading the vision, strategy, and operations of the region’s official destination organization. With over 20 years of experience in destination marketing, business development, and nonprofit management, Herrell has overseen record-breaking visitor expenditures of $1.3 billion. His background spans roles in tourism, sports, and entertainment, including leadership positions with the City of Jacksonville, the Nashville Sports Council, and the Music City Bowl. Herrell remains active in numerous regional and national tourism boards and initiatives.

CONVENTION GUESTS

Convention Guests

Robert Gallagher

Mayor of Bettendorf, Iowa

Mayor Robert “Bob” S. Gallagher was raised in Bettendorf. He graduated from Bettendorf High School in 1987. He received his B.A. in Communication Studies and Psychology from the University of Iowa in 1991. He received his Juris Doctorate Degree from Marquette Law School in 1994. In 1996, Bob returned to Bettendorf to practice law with Gallagher, Millage and Gallagher, PLC and raise his family. Bob and his wife, Jennifer, have a total of five children.

Bob has served the City of Bettendorf and the Quad Cities Community for more than 20 years. In 2004, Bob was named Volunteer of the Year by the Bettendorf Chamber of Commerce.

In 2008, he received the Sheldon Sitrick Leadership Award for extraordinary leadership and distinguished service to the Quad Cities. That same year, he was named a Quad Cities Area Leader Under 40. In 2013, Bob was inducted into the Bettendorf High School Hall of Honor.

Bob is a past Co-Chair of the Mississippi River Cities and Towns Initiative and is currently serving as Chair of the Scott County Emergency Management Agency and Chair of the Waste Commission of Scott County. He also serves on the Board of Directors for the Scott Emergency Communications Center, Bi-State Regional Commission as well as the Bi-State Regional Commission’s Transportation Policy Committee, Eastern Iowa 23

The 158th National Grange Convention

CONVENTION GUESTS

Community College Foundation, the Joint Contract Sewerage Committee, and Quad Cities Chamber’s Regional Opportunities Council.

Bob has served as the Mayor of the City of Bettendorf since 2012. During his tenure, the City has experienced incredible growth in both residential and commercial sectors, while continuing to provide excellent city services in a financially sound manner – all things you’ll hear about more today. Bob is dedicated to helping Bettendorf reach its full potential.

Philip Lehmkuhler

Midwest Regional Director U.S. Department of Commerce, NTIA

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Philip Lehmkuhler joined the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) as the Midwest Regional Director in NTIA’s Office of Internet Connectivity and Growth. NTIA’s mission is to support broadband expansion and adoption nationwide. Phil leads a team of federal program officers that support Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Kentucky, Ohio, and West Virginia in implementing the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) Program to support closing the digital divide across the region. Phil guides numerous outreach and collaboration efforts in the region to engage stakeholders and state broadband offices to maximize the historic broadband infrastructure investments from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Prior to joining NTIA, Phil was Vice President of Investor Finance for Solential Energy Solutions, LLC where he created and financed solar energy solutions for municipal governments.

Phil is also the founder of Mid-America Management and Consulting, LLC and served as a consultant for community and business development projects in Indiana and Texas. In 2009, Phil served as Indiana State Director of USDA Rural Development where he was responsible for a variety of programs which invested more than $6.5 billion in rural Indiana. Before joining USDA Rural Development, Phil served as Manager of Economic Development and Members Services of the Indiana Municipal Power Agency (IMPA).

Phil earned his Master in Public Administration (MPA) from the University of Louisville and his Bachelor’s degree with majors in Public Finance, Public Policy, and Organizational Management from Indiana University Bloomington. He received certification in Leadership Decision Making from the Harvard University Kennedy School of Government in 2015. He also has received certification in economic development from the Economic Development Institute at the University of Oklahoma in 2007.

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Bettendorf, Iowa - November 12-16, 2024

United States Secretary of Agriculture

Thomas J. Vilsack was confirmed as the 32nd United States Secretary of Agriculture on Feb. 23, 2021 by the U.S. Senate. He was nominated by President Joe Biden to return to a role where he served for eight years under President Barack Obama.

Under Secretary Vilsack’s leadership, the U.S. Department of Agriculture is Investing in America by restoring the American economy, strengthening rural and historically underserved communities, responding to threats of climate change, creating good-paying jobs for American workers and the next generation of agricultural leaders, and investing in our kids and our families.

Secretary Vilsack is spearheading a transformation of the food system by creating more, better, and fairer markets and ensuring that the food system of today and the future is more resilient and more competitive globally. It will also offer consumers affordable, nutritious food grown closer to home.

From excessive drought to more extreme fires, our producers, farmers and ranchers are on the frontlines confronting the challenges associated with climate change. USDA is engaging the agriculture and forestry sectors in voluntary, incentive-based climate solutions to improve the resiliency of producers and to build wealth that stays in rural communities. Additionally, USDA is advancing investments in science and research to offer producers a toolbox to adapt to and mitigate climate change.

Secretary Vilsack continues to take bold, historic action to reduce barriers to access for historically underserved communities. By working to ensure all aspects of civil rights and equity are integrated, USDA is rooting out generations of systemic racism and building systems and programs inclusive of all USDA employees and customers.

Secretary Vilsack is also focused on ensuring Americans have consistent access to safe, healthy, and affordable food.

USDA is investing in bold solutions that enhance food safety, improve the various far-reaching and powerful nutrition programs in the Department, and reduce food and nutrition insecurity in America.

CONVENTION GUESTS

Tom Vilsack

Halei Heinzel

77th Alice in Dairyland

As Wisconsin’s 77th agriculture ambassador, Halei Heinzel’s goal is to educate audiences about the importance of Wisconsin’s diverse agriculture industry, how it impacts our daily lives, and the $104.8 billion economic impact it has on the state’s economy.

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CONVENTION GUESTS

The 158th National Grange Convention Heinzel is a recent graduate of the University of Wisconsin (UW) – Madison, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences Communication. Heinzel was active in her high school’s FFA chapter. Before starting at UW-Madison, Heinzel graduated from the Farm and Industry Short Course program with certificates in Agribusiness Management and Dairy Farm Management.

Growing up in urban Oconomowoc, Heinzel felt disconnected from her food and the farmers who produced it. When she joined FFA, Heinzel got her first taste of Wisconsin agriculture, quite literally, when she milked a cow for the first time. Six years later, she has continued to seize opportunities to learn more about Wisconsin’s agriculture industry. While at UW-Madison, she was involved with student organizations such as Babcock House and Wisconsin Agriculture and Life Sciences Alumni Association, held internships with the Farm and Industry Short Course and Professional Dairy Producers, and worked with the Wisconsin State Fair Dairy Promotion Board.

IN THE SHOWCASE

Visit the Showcase Please support the following vendors, guests, partners, and departments in the Showcase - located in the Concourse and the Iowa room:

• 159th Annual National

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Grange Convention • American Income Life • America’s 250th Birthday (Semiquincentennial) • Best of the Region • Dictionary Program • Distinguished Granges • Eli Lilly • Federal Communications Commission • Grange Advocacy • Grange in Action • Grange Foundation • Grange Hall of Fame • Grange Legacy Families • Grange Revival • Grange Store • Grouper • GROW Club Auction • Grange History curated by Lester Gibbs 26

• Homesteading • Kansas State Grange Youth • Midwest Host Region

(Convention T-Shirts) • National Grange Departments: • Communications & Good Day! magazine • Community Service • Junior Grange • Lecturer’s Department • Legislative Department • Member Benefits • Membership Department and the SHIPmates • Youth & Young Adults • “Oldies but Goodies” • Quilts of Valor • Reaching Rural Surgical Seniors • Rural Minds • United States Patent & Trademark Office

Bettendorf, Iowa - November 12-16, 2024

15 years - Maryland State Grange 13 years - Pennsylvania State Grange^ 7 years - Oregon State Grange 6 years - North Carolina State Grange 15 Years Five Mile Prairie #905 (WA)^ Redland #796 (OR) Stanford #808 (NY) 14 Years Burns #160 (MI) Grantham #968 (NC)^ 13 Years Gratiot #1898 (MI) 12 Years Prairie #1832 (IL) Turkey Hill #1370 (IL) Valley #1360 (PA) 11 Years Harveys-Aleppo #1444 (PA) 9 Years Bethlehem #136 (NY)^ Russellville #91 (PA)^ Springwater #263 (OR) St. John’s #729 (NC) Upton #125 (MA) 8 Years Hookstown #1980 (PA)^ Linganore #410 (MD) 7 Years Central Union #559 (CA)^ Goldendale #49 (WA)^ Marys River #685 (OR)

6 Years Creswell #496 (OR)^ 5 Years Hamburg #2103 (PA) Sterling #53 (MA)

DISTINGUISHED GRANGES

2024 Distinguished Granges

4 Years Eagle #1 (PA) Gardner #68 (KS) New Market #362 (MD) 2 Years County Line #1751 (IL) Rio Linda #403 (CA)^ St. Joseph/Cass/Kalamazoo Pomona #4 (MI) Thurmont #409 (MD) 1 Year Bennett Valley #16 (CA) Big Knob #2008 (PA)^ Clackamas County Pomona #1 (OR) Columbus #58 (NJ) Fairview #2177 (IN) Lorane #54 (OR) Prices Fork #786 (VA)^ Progress #96 (PA)

^ Denotes GOLDEN Distinguished Grange

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NATIONAL GRANGE OFFICERS

The 158th National Grange Convention

National Grange Officers

Chistine E. Hamp

John Benedik

Lynette Schaeffer

Susan Noah

Buddy Overstreet

Leroy Watson

Tom Gwin

Chris Johnston

Walter Hartley

President

Exec. Committee Secretary

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Lecturer

Kathy Gibson Lady Assistant Steward

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Vice President

Exec. Committee Member

Steward

Kay Hoffman Stiles Chaplain

Exec. Committee Chair

Exec. Committee Member

Assistant Steward

Joseph Goodrich Treasurer

Bettendorf, Iowa - November 12-16, 2024

David Allen

Cindy Greer

Barbara Foster

Secretary

Ceres

NATIONAL GRANGE OFFICERS

Debbie Campbell

Gatekeeper

Pomona

Welina Shufeldt Flora

Roger Bostwick High Priest

William “Chip” Narvel Priest Archon

Martha Stefenoni Priestess Annalist

ASSEMBLY OF DEMETER

Assembly of Demeter

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NOTES

The 158th National Grange Convention

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Bettendorf, Iowa - November 12-16, 2024

CONVENTION SPONSORS

Thank You

to our Convention Sponsors!

We are incredibly grateful for the sponsors whose support helped us create and plan an unforgettable convention!

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Get On

d! r a o B

Set sail for the 2025 National Grange Convention at Sea! Learn more: www.nationalgrange.org/159ngconvention