Good Day! Volume 9, Issue 4 - January 2026

Good DAY!

™

Convention at Sea

The 159th Annual National Grange Convention took the Grange to previously unchartered territories - the Caribbean ABC Islands. Read all about the accomplishments at the convention.

Also inside: • New Officers elected to lead • Grange Foundation launches new challenge • Winners from National Grange contests • Recipes celebrating the New Year.

• and more!

A quarterly publication of the National Grange

Vol. 9, Issue 4 l January 2026

ADVERTISE WITH US Our quarterly publication welcomes advertisers. Up to a 20% discount may be offered to Grange members on their ad purchases. All rates shown are for pre-designed content submitted at least 2 weeks in advance of press date for an issue. You may request rates for ads to be designed by our staff.

GOOD DAY!™ 2026 PRESS DATES Issue

Due Date

V10, I1 February 28, 2026

V10, I2 May 31, 2026

V10, I3 August 31, 2026

V10, I4 November 30, 2026

Hits Mailboxes April 2026 July 2026

October 2026 January 2027

Classified ads are also welcomed at $0.50 per word up to 25 words, $1 thereafter; $2.50 per website, email, or other link regardless of word count; $5 per photo (will appear no larger than 1.5”x1”). Special requests (bold design, font increase) available for extra charge. All copy should be submitted no later than 10 days prior to the due date.

National Grange assumes no responsibility for that which is advertised in Good Day!™ and reserves the right to reject ads deemed offensive or irrelevant.

Please contact Philip Vonada by email at pvonada@nationalgrange.org or by phone at (814) 404-7985 for details.

WRITE FOR US This is your chance! This is your magazine.

Submissions may be made by any Grange member in good standing, especially including Junior and Youth members, and must be your own original work.

For Juniors, you may get your parent, guardian or another mentor or adult’s assistance to write or draw the piece, but we expect all those who assist to adhere to high ethical standards and allow the Junior’s work to be reflected without influence by the adult/ older assistant.

All work must be in good taste and appropriate for our audience. The National Grange reserves the right to reject any submissions.

Guidelines & The Fine Print Entries may include: photo essay (at least three photos that together tell a story with captions identifying the people in the photo if applicable and what is happening in the scene); short story (max. 1,500 words); poem; essay/article (maximum 1,500 words and must include at least two relevant photographs with captions); skit (no more than six speaking characters; should not take more than 10 minutes to perform and should not require an elaborate set); D-I-Y (do-it-yourself) project with supply list, step-by-step instructions and photos of each step; or open category (examples include but are not limited to a coloring book page related to Grange or agriculture; comic strip or box; recipes, etc.).

Each entry must be submitted digitally and include name, address, phone number, email (if applicable) and Grange details (name, number and state of Subordinate Grange and office held). Junior 1+ members can list the Subordinate or State Grange they are affiliated with. E-members can list National Grange E-member.

Submission

is

acknowledgment

that

publication is authorized. In the case of Junior submissions, this is acknowledgment of right to publish by both Junior and their parent/ guardian.

All submissions must be made via email to pvonada@nationalgrange.org.

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GRANGE NEWS & VIEWS

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GRANGE FOUNDATION

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THE STATE OF RURAL AMERICA

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IDEAS FOR GRANGE PROGRAMS & ACTION

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MEMBERSHIP NEWS & RECOGNITION

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JUNIOR GRANGE & GRANGE YOUTH

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HOBBIES & LIFESTYLE

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FOOD & RECIPES

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THE LAST WORD

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On the cover:

Nearly 400 Grangers and friends gathered on the Carnival Horizon for the 159th Annual National Grange Convention from November 8-16, 2025. This “Convention at Sea” held many firsts for the Grange, proving that changing circumstances can still yield incredible results.

Photo by Scott Nicholson

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PERSPECTIVES:

Convention at Sea

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Follow us on Social Media National Grange

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@nationalgrange

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Good Day! Magazine is a quarterly publication of the National Grange located at 1616 H St. NW, Suite 300, Washington, DC 20006 ISSN: 2688-6030. | All comments and questions can be directed to pvonada@nationalgrange.org.

Reproduction or distribution of any part of this magazine is prohibited by anyone other than a Grange member or a chartered Grange without written permission from the National Grange Communications Department.

GOOD DAY!™ MAGAZINE ®

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WHAT’S THE GRANGE? Founded in 1867, the National Grange began as a fraternal organization for farm families and was progressive from the start—welcoming men and women as equals.

Over more than a century and a half, the Grange has helped shape American life, championing causes such as rural free mail delivery and the direct election of U.S. Senators, as well as broadband and rural healthcare.

Today, the Grange continues to advocate for rural Americans and all who care about agriculture (including everyone who enjoys good food), while local Granges invest millions of dollars and countless volunteer hours back into their communities.

Rooted in grassroots action, each Grange reflects the needs, values, and voices of its members and its community.

®

OUR

Christine E. Hamp, Publisher National Grange President President, Grange Foundation President, Grange Advocacy champ@nationalgrange.org Philip J. Vonada, Editor Communications Director pvonada@nationalgrange.org Stephanie Wilkins, Subscriptions Manager IT Director swilkins@nationalgrange.org

Learn more at www.nationalgrange.org.

OUR

Burton Eller, Advertising Partner Legislative Director Executive Director, Grange Advocacy beller@nationalgrange.org

Officers

Christine E. Hamp, WA, President champ@nationalgrange.org John Benedik, NJ, Vice President jbenedik@grange.org

Susan Noah, OR, Executive Committee Chair snoah@grange.org Joseph Stefenoni, CA Executive Committee Member jstefenoni@grange.org William “Buddy” Overstreet, TX, Executive Committee Member boverstreet@grange.org Walter Hartley, RI, Executive Committee Member whartley@grange.org Dr. Richard Stonebraker, MD, Lecturer lecturer@nationalgrange.org

Christopher Johnston, MI, Steward

Amanda Leigh Brozana Membership & Leadership Development Director & Grange Foundation Associate abrozana@nationalgrange.org

Doug Baldwin, IA, Assistant Steward

Loretta Washington Sales, Benefits, Programs & Membership Recognition Director lwashington@nationalgrange.org

Kathy Gibson, MA, Lady Assistant Steward Kay Hoffman Stiles, MD, Chaplain Joseph Goodrich, VT, Treasurer Debbie Campbell, PA, Secretary David Allen, NC, Gatekeeper Cindy Greer, CO, Ceres

HEADQUARTERS PHONE (202) 628-3507 HEADQUARTERS ADDRESS: 1616 H ST NW SUITE 300 WASHINGTON, DC 20006

Additional Editing by: John Benedik, Karie Blasingame, Makayla Piers, and Lynette Schaeffer

Barbara Foster, WV, Pomona Welina Shufeldt, OK, Flora

GOOD DAY!™ MAGAZINE

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Staff

www.nationalgrange.org

PRESIDENTIAL Perspective Christine E. Hamp

As we step boldly into 2026, I am reminded of a truth woven through nearly 160 years of programs. It is the citizen who listens longer, Grange history: When speaks with respect, and works to mend what is ordinary people come frayed.

The Grange has always believed in this kind of together with purpose, leadership.

In 2026, we must embody it. we can do extraordinary things.

Strengthening Rural America: A Grange This year, the Grange Imperative is not simply participating in the future of rural Across the country, rural families face widening America – we are helping to lead it. gaps in healthcare, broadband, transportation, From the farms that feed the nation to the small towns that anchor our values, to the civic spaces and housing. More than 180 rural hospitals have where democracy still depends on neighbors closed in the past two decades. Thousands of showing up, rural America stands at a crossroads. bridges and roads are in disrepair. Young people leave because opportunity The challenges are real – leaves first. Farmers struggle crumbling infrastructure, fragile under rising input costs, volatile healthcare systems, rising We begin this new markets, consolidation, and costs for families and farmers, year with a call not to policy uncertainty. disappearing Main Streets, Here is the truth we must and a national civic climate too comfort, but to ; carry forward: Rural America is often marked by division rather not dying – it is being undernot to nostalgia, than dignity. engaged, and the Grange is But challenge has never but to ; not perfectly positioned to change been the measure of the that. Why? Grange’s spirit. Courage has. to survival, but to Because we are present.

Our founders were not We are trusted. afraid of change; they were We are rooted in community. the change. They took the .

Because our halls are often inequities and isolation of the last civic gathering place their time and transformed left in town. them into a movement built Because we have never been content to on connection, cooperation, and community. That comment from the sidelines. same courage is needed from us now – not in We solve problems. We build partnerships. We theory, but in practice. Not someday, but today. serve with humility.

We begin this new year with a call not to comfort, We do the work others talk about. but to action; not to nostalgia, but to leadership; not to survival, but to shaping what comes next.

In 2026, strengthening rural America means: Leadership is not a title; it is a responsibility. It • Rebuilding the civic spaces where neighbors is what happens when someone sees a need and gather and democracy grows. steps forward. It is the teacher who keeps showing • Advocating for stable markets, fair agricultural up, the farmer who keeps planting our food and policies, and input costs that don’t crush fiber, the Granger who keeps organizing service projects, fundraising drives, health fairs, and youth family farms.

action

leadership

shaping what comes next

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• Supporting hospitals and clinics and protecting programs like 340B that keep care local.

• Expanding broadband so opportunity reaches every household.

• Revitalizing Main Streets with entrepreneurship, childcare access, and attainable housing.

• Preparing the next generation to lead – not tomorrow, but today.

This is not someone else’s responsibility. This is ours.

A Call to Every Granger

If we want the Grange to lead the next chapter of rural America, then every Granger must lead.

Not someday.

Not when someone else volunteers first.

Now. Show up at your town hall.

Start a community health project.

Mentor a young person.

Partner with your fire district or your food bank.

Advocate for your hospital, your farm, your school, your road, your neighbor.

This is the year we expand our voice, our reach, and our relevance.

This is the year we remind the nation that rural America is essential, not optional – and that the Grange stands ready to lead.

The Road Ahead

The future will not be written by those who stand still. It will be written by those who step forward with steady hands, courageous hearts, and an unshakeable belief that service is how communities – and nations – are built.

Let us be those people.

Let us be that movement.

Let us be Grange Strong in 2026.

Together, we will not just strengthen rural America – we will help lead it into its greatest chapter yet.

2025 Distinguished Granges State Granges

16 years - Maryland State Grange 14 years - Pennsylvania State Grange 8 years - New York State Grange 4 years - Michigan State Grange

Community Granges 16 Years Five Mile Prairie #905 (WA) Redland #796 (OR) Stanford #808 (NY) 15 Years Burns #160 (MI) Grantham #968 (NC) 14 Years Gratiot #1898 (MI) 13 Years Prairie #1832 (IL) Turkey Hill #1370 (IL) Valley #1360 (PA)

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12 Years Harveys-Aleppo #1444 (PA) 10 Years Bethlehem #136 (NY) Mica Flats #436 (ID) Russellville #91 (PA) Springwater #263 (OR) St. John’s #729 (NC) Upton #125 (MA) 9 Years Hookstown #1980 (PA) Linganore #410 (MD) 8 Years Central Union #559 (CA) Marys River #685 (OR)

Pomona Granges

3 Years St. Joseph/Cass/Kalamazoo #4 (MI)

First Year 2 Years Clackamas County #1 (OR) Jefferson County #5 (NY) Mid-Michigan #61 (MI) Treasure Valley #1 (ID)

7 Years Creswell #496 (OR) 6 Years Hamburg #2103 (PA) Sterling #53 (MA) 5 Years Eagle #1 (PA) 3 Years County Line #1751 (IL) Rio Linda #403 (CA) Thurmont #409 (MD)

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2 Years Big Knob #2008 (PA) Fairview #2177 (IN) Progress #96 (PA) First Year Brogden #967 (NC) East Chatham #1066 (NY) Kirkland #684 (NY) Montague #140 (NJ) Penns Valley #158 (PA) Pleasant Ridge #135 (ID) Poteet #1576 (TX) South Rutland Valley #53 (NY) Vaca Valley #298 (CA)

From the desk of the PHILIP J. VONADA Every New Year’s Eve, I find myself drawn into a quiet moment amid the celebration.

As the countdown begins, the room (usually crowded with longtime friends) erupts with noise, cheers, and laughter—but inside, I pause.

In that liminal moment, in those final seconds of the year feel suspended in possibility.

It’s a moment to reflect on the past, but more importantly, to imagine the year ahead. What can I do differently? Where can I grow? How can I make a positive difference—not just in my own life, but in the lives of others?

Like many of you, I make resolutions. Some years I tackle them with energy and focus, while other years they slip away faster than I expect. In the past few years, I’ve realized that resolutions are less about perfection and more about intention. They are opportunities to set a goal, create a plan, and move into action. Even small steps, taken consistently, can build momentum that changes everything.

That process - goal, plan, action - applies beautifully to our lives in the Grange.

This past year, I spoke with a relatively new member who reminded me just how powerful that approach can be. She had felt discouraged early on, believing her ideas wouldn’t gain traction. Yet, on an ordinary day - not at the New Year, but at a random meeting, she decided to give it another try.

She set a goal: share her idea one more time. She made a plan: gather her notes, outline the help she would need, and present it clearly to the Grange. And then she took action. The response was immediate and enthusiastic. Members volunteered, the project and event took shape, and her idea became one of the most successful programs her Grange had hosted in a good while.

Her story resonated deeply with me. It reminded me that new beginnings aren’t reserved for January 1; they’re available any day we choose to step forward with intention. And it highlighted a truth I see again and

Editor

again in the Grange: progress is a collective journey. One member’s action inspires others.

One idea, once set in motion, can ripple through a whole community.

As we step into this new year, I encourage everyone to reflect not only on your personal resolutions but on your Grange goals.

Maybe your goal is to show up or participate a little more often, to help with a project you’ve always admired, or to bring forward an idea you’ve been holding back. Maybe your goal is bigger: to recruit new members, be a mentor, start a community service initiative, or step into leadership for the first time. Or maybe it’s to listen more, be more reflective, and let others take the lead.

Whatever the resolution looks like, the process stays the same: • Set a goal. Decide what you want to achieve—for yourself or for your Grange.

• Make a plan. Sketch out the steps, even if they’re tiny ones.

• Take action. Start where you are, with what you have, alongside people who want you to succeed.

And when things don’t go as planned? That’s okay.

The beauty of the Grange is that we lift each other up, adapt together, and keep moving forward. Every attempt is a chance to learn, to grow, and to reconnect with our shared purpose.

As for me, I’m entering this new year with my own list of goals—some personal, some for the Grange, and some rooted in the hope of helping my community feel more connected and supported. I’m making plans. And I’m ready to take action. I know I won’t get everything perfect, but I know that forward movement matters more than perfection.

Here’s to a year of intentional growth, meaningful action, and fresh starts. Let’s set our goals, make our plans, and step into action together—because when we do, our communities, our organization, and our own lives become stronger. Here’s to a #GrangeStrong year.

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Officers elected to lead National Grange

by Philip J Vonada

National Grange Communications Director

Washington, DC – On Friday, November 14, 2025, delegates assembled at the 159th National Grange Convention elected Christine Hamp to her second term as President of the nation’s oldest fraternal rural advocacy and service organization. Hamp was first elected in 2023 in Niagara Falls.

“It is an extraordinary honor to serve this organization, and I’m proud of what we are building together,” said Hamp. “As we enter our 160th year, I am inspired by the thousands of Grangers who show up – quietly, faithfully, and fiercely – for their neighbors and their communities. Their commitment fuels my own and reminds me why our work matters now more than ever, and their example calls us to expand our reach, amplify our voice, and build a Grange that will continue to change lives for generations to come.”

A fourth-generation Grange member, Hamp resides in Spokane, Washington. During her first term, she oversaw the launch of several key initiatives, including the Rural Life Initiative and Project Sustenance, focused on strengthening communities across America.

Delegates also re-elected John Benedik of New Jersey as Vice President and William “Buddy” Overstreet of Texas to the Executive Committee, where two seats were open. The second seat was filled by Walter Hartley of North Scituate, Rhode Island, who previously served as National Grange Assistant Steward. Hartley is succeeded in that role by Doug Baldwin of Newton, Iowa.

Hartley serves as President of both the Rhode Island

The 2025-2026 National Grange Officers. Elected to her second term, President Christine Hamp is at front. (Missing: Chip Narvel, Priest Archon) Photo by Scott Nicholson

New officers: Dr. Richard Stonebraker (left) and Doug Baldwin were elected as Lecturer/Program Director and Assistant Steward, respectively.

Photos by Philip J Vonada State Grange and Moosup Valley Grange #26. He works for the City of Warwick Police Department and is active in multiple organizations, including serving as Grand Knight of his Knights of Columbus council. He is also past President of the City of Warwick Municipal Employees’ Union and State Municipal Vice President with AFSCME Council 94.

Baldwin recently retired from the Air Force and Iowa National Guard after 20 years of service and several deployments, and is now the President of the Iowa State Grange.

Continuing their service on the Executive Committee are Susan Noah of Oregon and Joseph Stefenoni of California.

Dr. Richard Stonebraker of Hagerstown, Maryland, was elected Lecturer/Program Director. Stonebraker also serves on the Grange Foundation’s Advisory Board and is the current President of the Maryland State Grange and an agriculture teacher and FFA advisor in the Frederick County Public Schools.

Also reelected were: Christopher Johnston (Michigan), Steward; Kathy Gibson (Massachusetts), Lady Assistant Steward; Kay Hoffman Stiles (Maryland), Chaplain; Joseph Goodrich (Vermont), Treasurer; Debra Campbell (Pennsylvania), Secretary; David Allen (North Carolina), Gatekeeper; Cindy Greer (Colorado), Ceres; Barbara Foster (West Virginia), Pomona; and Welina Shufeldt (Oklahoma), Flora.

The Assembly of Demeter, the National Grange’s judicial branch, also held elections on Friday afternoon. Roger Bostwick of Ozawkie, Kansas, was elected to a third term as High Priest. William “Chip” Narvel of Delaware and Martha Stefenoni of California were re-elected as Archon and Annalist, respectively.

Finishing their terms were Lynette Schaeffer of Illinois, who served on the Executive Committee since 2017 and as Chairperson since 2021, and Tom Gwin of Washington, who served as Lecturer/Program Director in 2023.

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Giving Every Child a Voice North Carolina Granges partner to make playgrounds more inclusive Sometimes, the most meaningful community service projects begin with a simple question: How can we help? For Brogden Grange #967 and Grantham Grange #968 in Wayne County, North Carolina, the answer became clear through their support of local educators and, ultimately, the students they serve.

The story began in April 2025, when Grantham Grange honored Mrs. Crystal Weeks as its Educator of the Year during the Grange’s Community Service Awards. Weeks, a Speech Language Pathologist at Grantham Elementary School, is known for her dedication to ensuring all students, especially those with communication challenges, are supported, included, and empowered.

Grantham Grange then submitted Weeks for consideration in the North Carolina State Grange Educator of the Year program. As part of the interview process, nominees were asked to describe special initiatives or projects they had participated in.

Weeks shared a collaborative effort she had undertaken with fellow Wayne County Speech Language Pathologists: raising funds to purchase communication banners for elementary school playgrounds.

These banners, often referred to as “Point-and-Play” communication banners, allow non-verbal or minimally verbal students to communicate during recess by pointing to pictures and words representing actions, emotions, and needs. The initial fundraising effort raised enough money to purchase eight of the thirteen banners needed, leaving several schools still without this important resource.

That gap is where the Grange stepped in.

In July, Grantham Grange voted to purchase a communication banner for Grantham Elementary School. The

One of the banners being installed on an elementary school playground.

Photo provided

banner was formally presented during the Grange’s annual Teachers and Staff Appreciation Breakfast in August—a longstanding tradition honoring the educators of Grantham Elementary and Grantham Middle Schools. Shortly thereafter, Grange members installed the banner on the playground fence, putting it into immediate use by students.

Inspired by the impact of that first installation, Grantham Grange took the project a step further. At their August meeting, members voted to purchase two additional banners.

Nearby Brogden Grange soon joined the effort, agreeing to purchase two more banners, ensuring that all remaining elementary schools in the county that had not received one would now be included.

The value of these banners extends far beyond their physical presence. As educators note, communication banners promote inclusion and learning by offering visual symbols that encourage interaction among all students.

They allow staff to model communication strategies, support non-speaking students, and foster empathy and understanding among peers. For families of students with disabilities, seeing tools like these in everyday use provides reassurance that their children are not just accommodated—but fully included.

On October 15, 2025, the remaining banners were presented and installed at schools across Wayne County. Joining the Members of North Carolina’s Brogden and Grantham Granges pose with Grange members for the presentations were students, teachers, and administrators at one of the schools where they Dr. Marc Whichard, Superintendent of Wayne donated communication-inclusive banners.

Photo provided County Public Schools; Mr. Ken Derksen,

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Executive Director of Community Engagement and Student & Family Support; and Mrs. Weeks herself.

The impact was immediate and deeply moving. At several schools, students were seen approaching the banners, pointing to images that caught their attention. One student pointed to an image labeled “climb”—then walked over and began climbing the nearby fence, clearly expressing interest and intent in a way that might not have been possible before.

As Jimmy Martin, President of Brogden Grange #967, shared, “One of life’s most desirable things to do is to communicate. Whether you are young or old, communication is essential when you are trying to give or receive instruction.

These banners not only help young students express their needs or desires, but also assist educators in meeting those needs. We are proud that our Granges considered the needs of non-verbal students and placed a helpful tool directly into their environment.”

The banners were purchased from Autism Level Up and are designed with durability and accessibility in mind. Measuring ten feet wide and two-and-a-half feet high, they feature metal grommets every foot for easy installation on fences or walls.

They are waterproof, UV-resistant, easy to clean, and built to withstand daily outdoor use.

For Brogden and Grantham Granges, this project represents the very heart of Grange community service, listening to local needs, partnering with educators, and turning compassion into action. Members hope this effort will inspire other Granges in North Carolina and beyond to consider similar projects in their own communities.

After all, when every child has a way to be heard, everyone benefits.

Rural Life Initiative: A Year of Impact

by Philip J Vonada

National Grange Communications Director The National Grange’s Rural Life Initiative (RLI) continues to prove what’s possible when local communities are empowered to lead.

Building on a successful 2024 pilot program and holiday mini-grant cycle, the 2025 RLI summer grants expanded both reach and impact, supporting dozens of Granges as they transformed creative ideas into real, measurable change in their communities.

In 2025, 45 Granges submitted 60 applications, with 32 Granges in 14 states ultimately receiving grant funding. These projects quickly translated into action: between July and September, participating Granges hosted nearly 50 community events and formed partnerships with over 110 other organizations, including schools, nonprofits, churches, and other community organizations. Collectively, these efforts generated more than 350 new members – and even more people interested or engaged, reflecting renewed awareness of the Grange’s relevance and value in today’s communities.

This year, RLI ran two funding tracks designed to support both short-term impact and long-term strategy.

Thirty $1,000 Summer Grants enabled local Granges to rapidly implement community-based events and services, while two $5,000 Larger Grants supported more complex, scalable initiatives. The larger grants were awarded to Dry Creek Grange #646 (Washington) and Little Lake Grange #670 (California), supporting projects with extended timelines and deeper community engagement; their programs wrap up soon.

Projects funded through RLI addressed a wide range of community needs while advancing the Grange’s mission of service and leadership.

In Pennsylvania, Eagle Grange #1 hosted “Prep for Success,” distributing school supplies, hygiene items, shelf-stable food, and providing complimentary haircuts to help students begin the academic year prepared and confident. In New Jersey, Meyersville Grange #188 hosted a community screening of Saving the Great Swamp, fostering dialogue around environmental stewardship.

In Oregon, Little Deschutes Grange #939 and Rockford Grange #501 created hands-on youth and family programs focused on gardening and food preservation. Idaho’s Mica Flats Grange #436 launched a senior-focused wellness initiative designed to reduce fall risk and improve mobility, while Washington’s WhelanEwartsville Grange #114 revived traditional community dances to restore its role as a central gathering place.

From mental health workshops in New York to quilt raffles and community 5K races in Kansas that helped reduce student lunch debt, each project reflected a deep understanding of local needs and a commitment

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to service.

“The Rural Life Initiative has strengthened local Granges and communities in a way that hasn’t been seen before,” said healthcare advocate and fundraiser Nona Bear, who has hosted several RLI webinars and serves on the review panel. “The way the grants function allows Granges to dream bigger, dig deeper, and make a stronger impact than they’ve ever imagined. And the results speak for themselves, with growth and renewed interest in all corners of the country.”

National Grange President Christine Hamp emphasized that the true success of RLI lies in its longterm community-building impact.

“The Rural Life Initiative is more than a grant program. It is an investment in people, leadership, and the future of rural America.

These projects show what happens when local Granges are equipped and empowered to lead. The impact goes far beyond a single event; it strengthens relationships, builds resilience, and secures the Grange’s role in our communities for generations to come,” said Hamp.

As the program moves forward, RLI continues to serve as a proven model for grassroots innovation, positioning local Granges as visible, active, and trusted leaders in community development. The Rural Life Initiative proves that when local leaders are given real support, rural communities don’t just survive – they thrive.

It is recommended that all those interested in future opportunities to help bridge gaps in their

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STRATEGIES TO STRENGTHEN OUR COMMUNITIES

A National Grange Webinar Series

JANUARY

13

60 MINUTES

FEBRUARY

10

FROM IDEA TO IMPACT

Join Nona Bear and Beth Westbrook as they transform sample event ideas into real, workable plans—offering clear steps, smart planning strategies, and proven examples to help your Grange launch impactful community projects.

LESSONS LEARNED: SUCCESS STORIES FROM 2025 Hear directly from Granges funded in the 2025 RLI grant rounds as they share achievements, challenges, and insights to inspire your next community-focused event.

60 MINUTES

MARCH

10

60 MINUTES

ENGAGING NEW ENERGY Join Amanda Brozana to explore strategies for welcoming and involving new members who join through the Rural Life Initiative, fostering active participation, lasting connections, and stronger, more vibrant Grange communities.

Register: https://grange.biz/RLIwebinar All webinars will begin at 8:30pm ET / 5:30pm PT. Can’t make it? Recordings will be available following the event.

hometowns should tune in to the National Grange’s new Strategies to Strengthen Our Communities webinar series. These three webinars, “From Idea to Impact” on January 13, 2026, “Lessons Learned: Success Stories from 2025” on February 10, 2026, and “Engaging New Energy” on March 10, 2026, will focus on the RLI program.

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Register for the first webinar at https://grange.biz/RLIwebinar.

Registered attendees who stay through the end of the webinar will receive a special gift following the event.

There are big things on the horizon - be sure that you and your Grange are part of the story and action.

Lake Hubert’s Little Free Library A “Share Your Project’s Story” submission Grange and with enthusiastic group support, the Lake

by Bonnie Mitson & Randee Farmer

National Grange Community Service Co-Directors Thank

you

to

Lake

Hubert

Grange #735 (MN) for submitting the electronic SHARE YOUR PROJECT'S

Hubert Little Free Library got its start.

First step – Build the library. The Grange planned to purchase a Little Free Library kit for approximately $450.

As luck sometimes happens, they were able to find and purchase a hand-built library from a local man for $125.

STORY form located at https://www.

With member donations, the purchase was easily acquired.

service-programs/. Details of their

for locations, the Grange came up with three options. The

nationalgrange.org/communityLittle Free Library are shared here.

It is our hope that by sharing a project’s story, details might be helpful suggestions to other Granges on future projects. Thank you and great work, Lake Hubert Grange!

Next step - Where to install the library? When looking first was at the Grange Hall - this idea was liked but the hall is seasonal and the library would not be accessible yeararound. The second idea was at the township hall - this location would be accessible year-around and visible by a good amount of traffic.

The third option had all of that but also had a historic

Project Name: Lake Hubert Little Free Library

significance in the local area AND a well-utilized bike path

Approximate Hours Expended: 5 hours

install it there. The Lake Hubert Conservation Association

Grange: Lake Hubert Grange #735, Nisswa, Minnesota

that ran through it. The only issue was to get permission to

Members: 5 Adult Grangers & 2 Junior Grangers

who owns the property was contacted by the Grange and

It only takes an idea. Children of a Lake Hubert Grange member developed a passion for reading. As such, the member had always wanted to install a Little Free Library at the house but worried that the farm dogs would greet anyone and everyone who stopped by. Then, the idea for the free library was shared with other members of the

after sending a well written proposal to their board, the Association was excited to add this library to their site.

Third step - Grangers go into action. The library box was repainted so that the color matched the historic train depot on the property. A pedestal to mount it on was constructed and installed. After registering the library on the Lake Hubert Conservation Association website, the project was widely shared over social media and community neighbors were encouraged to add books to the library. Within hours, it was full of books for both young and old.

It just takes an idea to make a difference in the

community. The Little Free Library started with a member’s

idea, then it became the culmination of a beautiful collaboration between the Lake Hubert Grange and the Lake Hubert Conservation Association. A plaque on the front reads, “Proudly donated by Lake Hubert Grange Two of Lake Hubert Grange’s Junior members pose with the first books to go into the Little Free Library. Photo provided

#735. Today a reader, tomorrow a leader!”

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Words for Thirds / The Dictionary Project A “Share Your Project’s Story” submission

by Bonnie Mitson & Randee Farmer

National Grange Community Service Co-Directors to

The “Why” for this project: Kuna

Kuna Grange #59

Grange participates in the Words for

(ID) and Rainbow

Thirds project because it means so

Grange #527 (WV)

much to their community’s third grade

for submitting the

students.

Thank

you

Every

year

the

students

electronic SHARE YOUR PROJECT'S

look forward to getting their very own

STORY form located at https://www.

dictionary to KEEP! The excitement and

nationalgrange.org/community-service-

the look on their faces when they receive

programs/. Unique details of how each

their own dictionary is priceless. Their

Grange accomplished their successful

classroom teachers get excited as well.

project are shared in this article.

Kuna Grange supports literacy.

It is our hope that by sharing a

The ”How” for this project: Kuna

project’s story, details might be helpful

Grange follows the following steps for

suggestions to other Granges on future

success:

projects. Thank you and great work, Kuna & Rainbow Granges!

• Get a count of the community’s third grade students • Order that number of dictionaries

Project Name: Words for Thirds

Grange: Kuna Grange #59, Kuna, Idaho Approximate Hours Expended: 38 hours Members: 8 (33 hours)

through The Dictionary Project (www.dictionaryproject.org)

for

delivery; in Kuna Grange’s case, to the Grange Hall.

• Purchase dictionaries with funds

Sponsors/Non-Members: 10 (5

raised from local community

hours)

sponsors and Grange members.

Sponsor contact is made in person, via letters through the US mail and email.

• Create

labels

including

every

sponsor, business or individual that donates toward the purchase and place inside the dictionary as a way to let all know who helped in making this project possible.

• This year, a local news station, Channel 6, did a piece of Kuna Grange

and

the

Dictionary

Project. https://www.kivitv.com/

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Project Name: The Dictionary Project Grange:

Rainbow

Grange

#527,

Pennsboro, West Virginia Approximate Hours Expended: 8 hours Members: 7 (4 hours)

Non-Members: 65 (4 hours) Rainbow Grange # 527 has donated dictionaries to third graders at Creed Collins

and

Harrisville

Elementary

schools for the past several years.

The members have the students look up the word “Grange” in the dictionary and tell what the Grange is about.

(Director’s note: What a wonderful way to introduce Grange to the kids at the presentation of dictionaries!)

Funds for The Dictionary Project are

kuna/passing-the-torch-kuna-

raised by members working the main

ahead-of-115-year-anniversary

of their Grange building.

grange-seeks-new-membersMembers of Kuna Grange deliver their dictionaries to the school.

Photo provided

Members of Rainbow Grange place labels inside of the dictionaries before they are taken to the school.

Photo provided

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gate to the Ritchie County Fair and use

Along the Way...

C. M. Gardner State Park

By Norman Houser Author, The Pennsylvania Rambler www.thepennsylvaniarambler.com

"Fortunately the Grange placed emphasis on the soil, the forests and all our natural resources… the organization supported the conservation movement and protection of the water, wild life and forest resources."(sic) - Charles M. Gardner, Friend of the Farmer, pp. xv

Charles M. Gardner’s official portrait, as printed in Friend of the Farmer.

Photo in National Grange Archives

As Grangers, we are to be good stewards of the land, maintaining the values of good farming practices and also conservation practices. We should be utilizing practices that protect the environment for future generations. While many Grangers have displayed good stewardship and have promoted conservation practices, most go unrecognized by the world around them.

However, outside of the community of Huntington, Massachusetts, is a small state park that remembers the life of Grange leader Charles M. Gardner. The state park is located along Route 112, north of Huntington, and provides the opportunity to picnic, hike, fish, hunt, or spend time canoeing or kayaking on the East Branch of the Westfield River.

The life of Charles Milo Gardner began on July 19, 1872, in Huntington, Massachusetts. At the age of 17, Gardner began his career in journalism, eventually owning and publishing the Westfield Valley Echo for 15 years.

At the age of 20, Gardner joined Westfield Grange #20 and would hold several positions at the local and Pomona levels. In 1905, he was elected state lecturer. A year later, he would marry Elizabeth L Hayward. Note: Elizabeth also holds a special place in Grange history.

She composed a familiar Grange hymn, titled: “To Thee, Beloved Grange.”

In 1909, Gardner was elected President (then Master) of the Massachusetts State Grange. That same year, he would be elected to serve as a state legislator, a position he held until 1910.

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Gardner is, perhaps, best known to Grangers for his book The Grange: Friend of the Farmer, which tells the story of a movement rooted in advocacy, cooperation, and service to farmers and rural communities.

It remains a “must-read” for any Grange member serious about history or curious about the roots of the organization.

Photo in National Grange Archives

At the 1913 National Convention in Manchester, New Hampshire, Gardner would be elected High Priest of Demeter. He would hold this position for 34 years - the longest tenure in Grange history , and under his guidance, the Seventh Degree underwent revisions. He had the privilege of bestowing the Seventh Degree upon Franklin D. Roosevelt in Rochester, New York, in 1930.

At the end of 1910, he took over the National Grange's magazine, renaming it the National Grange Monthly. At the time, it had no subscribers, and the magazine was deep in debt. With his wife’s help, he began printing the magazine in

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Above: A large rock with a memorial plaque at the entrance to C. M. Gardner State Park.

Photo via WikiMedia Commons Below: The text of the plaque, as was printed in the dedication ceremony bulletin.

Image via WesternMassHilltownHikers.com

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the attic of their home. By 1935, due to their dedication and diligence, they were printing over 100,000 copies for mailing to readers. In 1946, Gardner stepped down from his duties with the National Grange Monthly to focus on the completion of a book on Grange history: The Grange – Friend of the Farmer: 1867-1947.

In 1945, Gardner was presented a special plaque by Secretary of the Treasury Charles Morgenthau, Jr., for his promotion of the war bond program.

In his lifetime, he would serve as the chairman of the Massachusetts Dairy Board for 5 years, as a member of the Massachusetts Board of Agriculture for 6 years, as the vice-president of the Framers and Traders Life Insurance and the National Grange Fire Insurance.

Being involved did not slow him down as he continued to speak regularly to Granges and other organizations.

In his obituary, it is noted that he spoke on average 200 days of the year.

Gardner passed January 21, 1954, from injuries from a fall that occurred in October 1953. He was laid to rest in Norwich Bridge Cemetery, Huntington.

The life of Charles Gardner would not be forgotten. In 1955, Grangers – along with the Western Massachusetts Electric Company – donated land for a park in Gardner’s memory. The small park would be known as C. M. Gardner Memorial Park and would be used for both Grange gatherings and local recreation. In July 1963, the land would be officially dedicated in memory of Charles M. Gardner, and in September 1963, a plaque was placed in his honor.

The legacy of conservation continues within the state park. Gardner tended the land, nurturing it and protecting it for future generations. His memory continues to be honored by those who visit to enjoy the benefits of nature.

In The Grange – Friend of the Farmer: 1867-1947, Gardner wrote: “The Grange has constantly adhered to a policy calling for the wise conservation and use of our natural resources.” (p. 137) – thanks to his efforts in conservation, his legacy remains for generations to enjoy their natural surroundings.

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Horace and Agnes of Home Acres Farm Family, Farming, the Seaside and The Grange submitted by Carol Youngs “… O to go back to the place where I was born, …

To ramble about the house and barn and over the fields once more, And through the orchard and along the old lanes once more …

O to have been brought up on bays … or along the coast, … excerpted from A Song of Joys, Walt Whitman, circa 1891-92 On the north shore of Long Island, there was once a family farm called Home Acres. The land was purchased circa 1620s by William Wells, one of Southold Town’s founding fathers.

My paternal great-grandparents, Horace Joshua Wells and his wife Agnes Binkerd, whom he met when they both attended Pratt Institute’s high school in Brooklyn, lived there. The Institute has been credited as “… one of the first in the country open to all people, regardless of class, color, and gender.”

Horace came from a long line of farmers. Agnes grew up in New York City. They graduated in 1895, attended college, and married in 1898.

Their wedding photo shows a lanky, handsome young man standing next to his happy bride in a sun-filled backyard. They started their fifty-five years of married life in New Canaan, Connecticut, moving to Southold in the hamlet of Northville circa 1902, and bought Home Acres Farm in 1910.

The farmhouse, a handsome two-story white clapboard with green trim, featured a beautiful stained-glass window and lovely climbing ivy near the back door, which grew from a cutting

Horace and Agnes on their wedding day - September 17, 1898.

Photo provided - Wells Family

gleaned from London’s Westminster Abbey. While Horace

swim and handle the boats. We knew the rhythm of the tides

tended to the land and barn animals, Agnes raised the three

which rose relentlessly to sweep away anything left within its

girls, Marjery, Winifred, and her namesake, my grandmother,

reach and, ebbing, left the secrets of the sea exposed… (We)

Agnes, and fed the family or canned and preserved food from

gathered with our elders around a long supper table on the

Horace’s pride and joy, a one-acre kitchen garden which grew

porch, we gleaned from their conversation bits of family lore

flowers as well as vegetables.

and legend…When the evening meal was over, we combed the

Home Acres Farm grew to include 180 or so acres, including

beach for driftwood and as soon as the flood of sunset color had

Long Island Sound frontage a few miles up the road, where

faded into dusk we gathered around our fire where songs and

Horace would build a cottage colony where many happy

chatter blended with the ancient obligato of lapping waves…

summers were spent beachside with extended family.

The end of the day brought reluctant goodbyes as our family

Horace and Agnes’ eldest daughter, Marjery, recalled in her

climbed into the carriage for the two mile trip back to Home

memoir, “Time has not dimmed the bright pattern of those

Acres Farm… Sleepily we creaked along toward home. The

summer days. Together, we children (sisters, cousins) learned to

velvet darkness was filled with fireflies and the universe with

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are held in various locations in up to 12 counties in New York State.

An essay, “Old Time Potato Machinery,” written by Horace and presented at a Grange meeting on August 17, 1948, shared the evolution of farm practice and implements used. It is interesting to read this decades later to learn how the various farming chores were streamlined with the advent of machinery and new techniques.

Agnes once spoke at a Grange program on the subject of homemaking, reading in part: “No aggregation of vacuum cleaners, electric refrigerators, stoves, toasters, radios, salads as beautiful as a poem, smart clothing, and whatnot can make a home, nor their lack unmake it. Real homes have been made in all sorts of circumstances and places, and with meagre equipment, -- on our frontiers… in city and in country… The essentials are: Character, an understanding of others, and selfdiscipline.”

During the weekend of Horace’s 1957 funeral, the house filled with relatives. A granddaughter, Winnie, shared Agnes’ marriage bed. Just before sleep came, Agnes reached across the covers toward Horace’s side of the bed and whispered their nightly personal ritual, “Good night, papa,” and squeezed what she needed to be his hand for the last time.

After Horace’s memorial service, their granddaughter, Winnie (my father’s sister), wrote an essay excerpted here. “…But in farming, Grandpa (Horace) found, in addition to

Horace J. Wells, potato farmer at Home Acre Farms, with a sample of his product.

Photo provided - Wells Family

a way of making a living, a way of making life enjoyable and

stars. Life was good and we, with our parents and grandparents,

down-lot to pick strawberries…Another memory is the night

had our own special place in a wonderful world!”

Grandpa came hurrying to find me and tell me about the latest

worthwhile. One of my favorite childhood memories is going

Marjery’s youngest sister, my grandmother Agnes Youngs,

arrival – a pair of identical twin calves! Even after Grandpa

recalled riding from the farm with a girlfriend in a horse and

stopped farming, he was an industrious gardener; his acre of

buggy the five or so miles to the school. No school buses

flowers and vegetables was the precious remainder of farming

back then! Agnes was the valedictorian of the 1921 class

life. My most treasured memory of all is the one of Grandpa

and attended Oberlin College. She was an English and Latin

and Grandma (Agnes) walking hand in hand around the house

teacher for many years and raised a daughter and three sons,

and garden, stopping to wonder at, smell, or sample, the latest

one of whom was my father, Allan Youngs, who spent many

joy in the form of a rose or a carrot…The ‘joy of human love’

happy summer days at Home Acres Farm from a young age.

(from a hymn sung at Grandpa’s funeral) colored everything he

Horace and Agnes enjoyed corresponding with relatives and friends and, as part of their civic committee work, with

did…I think my grandparents were the most deeply in love of any couple I have ever known.”

politicians as well. Over 200 family and friends would attend

The National Grange aims to provide resources and

their 50th wedding anniversary celebration held at the farm.

opportunities for growth through core values, which include

Active in their church, the local school district, and the Grange,

community and family.

None lived this better than Horace and Agnes.

they were very community-oriented.

The Sound Avenue Grange #1272, to which they belonged, began meeting in a nearby Town Hall in 1912. According to a 2013 article in Riverhead Local, “The Sound Avenue Grange

Carol Youngs is a freelance writer and educational consultant in Central New York.

was both the first to be established on Long Island and the last to have meetings — in the 1990s.” Currently, Grange meetings

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GRANGE ADVOCACY ADVERTORIAL

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Three elected to Grange Foundation Board

By Amanda Brozana National Grange Membership & Leadership Development Director Grange Foundation Associate On October 28, the Grange Foundation held its annual meeting and election. This year, three seats on the advisory board were up for election.

Following the 159th Annual National Grange Convention, the Grange Foundation Board and Advisory Board met to reorganize and elect new officers.

Incumbents Anna May Nauss of Pennsylvania and Richard Stonebraker of Maryland were reelected, while Sarah Strawder of Kansas was elected for the first time. Strawder succeeds her husband, Nathan Strawder, who completed a term of service on the board.

Nauss, a member of Valley Grange #1360 for more than 50 years, has served on the Foundation Board since 2022 and currently chairs the scholarship committee. A retired credit union CEO with decades of leadership experience, she remains active at every level of the Grange and was also reelected by the board to continue serving as Grange Foundation secretary.

Stonebraker, president of the Maryland State Grange and a longtime advocate for

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agricultural education, continues in his role during a period of modernization and strategic growth for the Foundation. He previously served as treasurer and brings both nonprofit governance experience and a doctorate in organizational leadership focused on rural community development.

Strawder, a relatively new member of the Kansas State Grange, serves as president of Otter Creek Grange #1493 and state membership director. Known for her community engagement work, ranging from family events to fundraising that eliminated student lunch debt, she brings a strong background in finance and nonprofit service. She is a member of the Foundation’s donor circle, the 1-in-1,000 Club.

Following her election, the board selected Strawder to serve as the new treasurer for the Grange Foundation.

The remaining advisory board members include Marty Billquist of Montana and Mark Gibbons, president of Potomac Grange #1 in Washington, D.C. They serve alongside the six members of the National Grange Executive Committee, who sit on the Foundation board by virtue of their offices: Christine Hamp, National Grange President, who also serves as president of the Grange Foundation; John Benedik of New Jersey, National Grange Vice President and Chairman of the Foundation Board; Susan Noah of Oregon; William “Buddy” Overstreet of Texas; Joe Stefenoni of California; and Walter Hartley of Rhode Island.

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Top to Bottom: Anna May Nauss (PA), Richard Stonebraker (MD), and Sarah Strawder (KS) were elected to positions on the Grange Foundation Advisory Board.

Support the Foundation in the Common Routes Challenge Kicking off at the National Grange Convention and running through April, the Grange Foundation is encouraging members and friends of the Grange to celebrate unity through movement by participating in the Common Routes: Choose Your Challenge event.

This virtual -thon allows individuals to support the work of the Grange Foundation at the level and with the activity of their choice, from running a 10K to taking a few long Sunday drives. Pets and children can even take part!

“The idea is simple - use your time on the move to reflect on the impact the Grange has had on your life or community and share that with others,” Grange Foundation Chairman John Benedik said. “You can choose how you want to participate, when you want to participate and in doing so, you’ll move the Grange Foundation forward into 2026 and beyond.”

Adult and Junior racers will receive a cooling towel and sticker pack. If you sign up a child under 5, you will receive a special waterproof “Baby’s first 5k” sticker.

You can even choose to have your pets get in on the fun by signing them up to take part in the pup strut though it’s open to any pet you’d like to participate. They will receive an event-branded pet bandana.

Racers are encouraged to have friends register and enjoy being on the move together, but they may also want to secure sponsors. By encouraging people who do not wish to race to sponsor you, you’ll be helping the Foundation and entered into our contest for “biggest fundraisers.” Just tell your friends and family to click the donate button on the website, select their amount and choose “Other” and enter your name under the On Behalf Of option.

To honor the idea that you can choose your challenge and move any way you’d like, we’ve also created a Sunday Driver and passenger category. Sunday drivers will receive a keychain and sticker pack. Passengers will

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receive an event sticker pack.

Finally, if you don’t want to race or drive but still wish to support the Grange Foundation and have your name added to the event supporters, you can register as a cheerleader.

Registration is open through Grange Month (April)!

When you register however, you will receive a digital bib so you can show your support and participation on social media platforms. Print the bib and hang it at your hall or office to encourage others to take part. Swag items will be sent by mail.

“This is a great way to get a friend to support the Foundation and learn why the Grange is important to you while walking, running, biking, riding or doing any other type of movement that you choose,” Grange Foundation Associate Amanda Brozana said. “No matter what mode of movement you choose, we challenge you to share the value of Grange with others through this event.”

Register by visiting: https://runsignup.com/ grangefoundation.

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That’s why we don’t just work for patients, we work with them to deliver the breakthroughs that will change their lives.

Join us at LetsOutdoCancer.com

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GRANGE ADVOCACY ADVERTORIAL

Understanding Barriers to Mental Health Care for Rural Americans Courtesy of Family Features

Rural America is experiencing a mental health emergency. For residents of rural communities, there is evidence of higher rates of mental illness compared to those in urban communities. For example, the suicide rate is 49% higher among rural residents compared to urban residents, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Yet people living in rural areas are less likely to have access to mental health services.

A survey of people in rural areas conducted by Russell Research on behalf of nonprofit mental health advocacy organization Rural Minds, found most (94%) respondents believe it’s important for policymakers to prioritize greater access to medicines for mental illness.

Compounding the mental health challenges rural Americans face, 82% of respondents have one or more barriers to accessing health care and mental health

treatments. Largely due to distance and availability, 85% would rather get medicines from a local pharmacy than travel to a doctor’s office.

This is why legislation like the Ensuring Pathways to Innovative Cures (EPIC) Act, being considered in Congress, is essential for many people in rural areas.

This legislation supports research and development for “small molecule” medicines - basically pills - which are easier to produce and access in rural areas with limited health care services.

“Small molecule” medicines can reach the brain easier, which is beneficial in treating mental illness.

Consider some of the common barriers to mental health care in rural communities.

Costs and Other Lifestyle Barriers

The survey found factors like out-ofpocket costs such as copays, deductibles and health insurance premiums affect rural residents’ ability to access health care and medical treatments. Some

people lack medical insurance altogether while others are hesitant to ask for help.

“Many rural residents have a strong sense of self-reliance and won’t seek help for mental health issues,” said Matt Espenshade, president of the Pennsylvania State Grange. “Programs like Rural Minds are working to normalize conversations around mental health in rural communities. Developing more effective and accessible treatments is critical for rural populations, which is why the EPIC Act, which will encourage such development, is so important for people struggling with mental illness.”

Lack of Awareness of Patient Assistance Programs

Many rural residents are unaware of programs that exist to help pay for medicine, including the Medicine Assistance Tool, a searchable database of patient assistance programs offered by pharmaceutical companies. Less than 3 in 5 rural residents know about programs that improve access and affordability of medications and only half are aware of the Medication Prescription Payment Plan.

Long Distances from Medical Care

Physical distance also plays a factor with approximately 25% of rural residents indicating the distance to medical specialists is a barrier to accessing health care and treatments.

Limited Access to Physicians

There are 20% fewer primary care physicians in rural areas and a shortage of mental health providers - approximately 65% of rural counties lack psychiatrists.

It’s estimated there are 68 physicians per 100,000 people in rural communities while urban areas have closer to 84 physicians to serve the same number of residents.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

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Poor Internet Service

Telehealth for mental services can

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help bridge the lack of access to physicians, yet internet service in rural areas is often poor to nonexistent. While the percentage of rural residents with internet access is growing, the Federal Communications Commission estimates about 30% do not have broadband internet.

Learn more about efforts to increase access to mental health services in rural areas, such as the EPIC Act currently introduced in the U.S. House and Senate, by visiting ruralminds.org/ruralpolicy-legislation.

How You Can Inspire Legislative Action

Make your voice heard by your elected officials. Contact your U.S. senators and representatives through letters and phone calls to co-sponsor and pass the EPIC Act. You can find your elected representatives and their contact information by visiting Senate.gov and House.gov.

Once you’ve contacted your senator or representative, share details on the issue or specific legislation you’re requesting action on and provide details or a personal experience to support the need.

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

Talk with your family, friends and neighbors to encourage them to get involved and contact their elected officials, as well.

6 myths about rural America: How conventional wisdom gets it wrong

By Tim Slack Professor of Sociology, Louisiana State University

and Shannon M. Monnat

outline six myths about rural America – a few among many – highlighted in our recent book Rural and Small-Town America: Context, Composition, and Complexities.

Myth 1: Rural America is disappearing due to depopulation

Professor of Sociology, Syracuse University Originally published in The Conversation www.theconversation.com

Many people think rural America is emptying out. The

Roughly 1 in 5 Americans live in rural areas – places the federal government defines based on small populations and low housing density.

Yet many people understand rural America through stereotypes. Media and political conversations often use words or terms such as “fading,” “white,” “farming,” “traditional” and “politically uniform” to describe rural communities.

In reality, rural communities are far more varied. Getting these facts right matters because public debates, policies and resources – including money for programs – often rely on these assumptions, and misunderstandings can leave real needs neglected.

We are rural demographers at Louisiana State University and Syracuse University who study the causes and consequences of well-being in rural America. Here we

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story is more complicated. It’s true that from 2010 to 2020 most rural counties lost population. But about one-third grew, especially those near cities or those with lakes, mountains and other natural attractions. And there have been times, like in the 1970s and 1990s, when rural populations grew faster than cities – periods called “rural rebounds.”

An important thing to know about rural population change is that the places defined as “rural” change over time. When a rural town grows enough, the U.S. Office of Management and Budget reclassifies it as “urban.” In other words, rural America isn’t disappearing – it’s changing and sometimes urbanizing.

Myth 2: Most rural Americans live on farms

Farming is still important in many rural places, but it’s no longer the way most rural Americans make a living. Today, roughly 6% of rural jobs are in agriculture. And most farm families also have members who work off-farm jobs, often for access to health insurance and retirement benefits.

A bigger source of employment in rural America is manufacturing. In fact, manufacturing plays a larger role as a share of jobs and earnings in rural areas than in cities.

That also means that deindustrialization – steady job losses in manufacturing over the decades – has been especially painful in rural America. Unlike large cities with lots of employers, rural communities rely on just a few. When a rural plant or factory closes, the local impacts are often devastating.

The largest share of rural jobs today is in service-sector work, such as retail, food service, home health care and hospitality. These jobs often pay low wages, offer few

benefits and have unstable hours, making it harder for many rural families to stay financially secure.

Myth 3: Only white people live in rural America

People often picture rural America as mostly white, but that’s not the full story. About 1 in 4 rural residents are nonwhite. Hispanic and Black people make up the largest shares, and Indigenous people have a greater portion of their population living in rural areas than any other racial group.

Rural America is also getting more racially and ethnically diverse every year. Young people are leading that change: About 1 in 3 rural children are nonwhite. The future of rural America is racially diverse, even if popular images don’t always show it.

Myth 4: Rural America is healthier than urban America

Many people imagine rural life as healthier than city life.

But the opposite is true. People in rural areas die younger and at higher rates than people in cities. Scholars call this the “rural mortality penalty,” and it has been widening for years. The COVID-19 pandemic made the gap even larger due to higher death rates in rural communities.

This isn’t just because rural areas have more older people. Rural working-age people, ages 25 to 64, are dying younger than their urban peers, and the gap is growing.

This trend is being driven by nearly all major causes of

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death. Rural residents have higher rates of early death from cancers, heart disease, COVID-19, motor vehicle crashes, suicide, alcohol misuse, diabetes, stroke and pregnancyrelated complications.

Myth 5: Rural families are more traditional than urban families

Images of rural life often evoke households in which married couples are raising children in traditional family structures. Historically, rural children were more likely to live with married parents. But that’s no longer the case.

Today, rural children are less likely than urban children to live with married parents and are more likely to live with cohabiting unmarried parents or in the care of grandparents or other relatives. Partly as a result, rural child poverty rates are higher than urban rates, and many rural families rely on safety-net supports such as the food aid program SNAP. Rural families are diverse, and many are economically vulnerable.

The partisan gap between rural and urban voters averaged 3 percentage points in the 1980s and 1990s, before growing to 10 percentage points in the 2000s and 20 percentage points in recent cycles. So, Trump’s support in rural America was not a new “revolt” but part of a longterm trend.

And in 2024, the key geographic story wasn’t rural voters at all – it was the sharp drop in turnout in big cities. Both candidates got fewer urban votes than in 2020, with Kamala Harris capturing over 10 million fewer votes in major and medium-sized cities than Joe Biden had four years earlier.

Disclosure:

Myth 6: A new ‘rural revolt’ gave Donald Trump his presidential victories

Many rural voters have supported Donald Trump, but this didn’t happen overnight.

For much of the 20th century, Democrats drew major support from rural areas due to the party’s alignment with the working class and 100 years of single-party rule in the South spanning Reconstruction to the civil rights era.

However, social class and regional flips in voting patterns have meant rural voters have been shifting toward Republicans for nearly 50 years. The last time rural and urban residents voted within 1 percentage point of each other was in 1976, when Georgia peanut farmer and former governor Jimmy Carter was elected.

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Tim Slack has received funding from the NSF, USDA, NIH, U.S. Department of the Interior, U.S. Department of Energy, Louisiana Department of Energy and Natural Resources, and Gulf of Mexico Research Initiative.

Shannon M. Monnat receives funding from the National Institutes of Health and the Lerner Center for Public Health Promotion and Population Health at Syracuse University.

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What Ought-To-Be: Securing the Future of the Family Farm

By Ryan Baker Partner at Open Advisors

like my kids to take over, but…” Or “I want to be less involved with the daily operation, but…” At this stage of the process, you need to get your “but” out of the way and describe your ideal scenario in as much detail as you can, while setting aside what you think is impossible. Farmers are often so pragmatic that many will think it a waste of time to consider the “impossible.” I get it; however, the reality is that clients have told us that we’ve helped them accomplish the very things they thought were impossible.

It required no miracle, just seeing the situation from a different perspective.

Family farm succession is important. It’s worth considering how your succession Ought to play out with every possibility on the table. Worst case, a clearly defined “Ought” is a valuable directional North Star when it comes to planning.

So how do you begin to stretch yourself to create this new mental picture when you’re in the habit of dealing with facts on the ground and managing very valid concerns? Here’s a tip: imagine the people involved, their resources, their activities, and their success first. If we’re talking about your kids, see them being successful. Work through it, speak out loud to yourself, describing in detail what their success looks like. If appropriate, get your kids involved and make sure your definition of success aligns with theirs. When the picture becomes clear, write it down.

Again, check yourself on the “if-only” and “we’re short here”

In the twenty-two years that I’ve done succession planning, I’ve learned there’s a repeatable, Bible-based planning process that works for every operation from the smallest farm to the largest multi-line ag operation. I want to share it with you. The purpose of this article is to equip you with a basic understanding of the process so you can get started on your own. This applies whether you attempt a full do-it-yourself (DIY) planning approach, work with a team of professionals who specialize in ag succession, or something inbetween. My goals are to save you time, money, and help you develop a better succession plan in 2026 to preserve your family farm for future generations.

In simple terms, the planning process has four stages: Ought - Is - Can - Will.1 Before getting into the details, there are some contextual things you should know: • The extent you’ll be able to navigate the process on your own depends greatly on your specific situation (some farm succession plans are very simple and straightforward; others are very complex).

• This article focuses on the first two stages, Ought and Is, which you may be able to complete on your own using free resources we offer, or similar resources that can be found online.

• The first two stages typically require the most intensive farm-owner involvement.

• Doing this legwork in advance can save billable hours when working with an attorney or CPA, and/or, result in a lower fee if you are working with a flat fee advisor.

• We always recommend working with an experienced advisor who can help you develop, or at least confirm, your plan before you implement.

• For the full DIY-er, you’ll need to take these steps to develop a clear picture of the problem you are trying to solve.

Let’s dive in.

The goal of the first planning stage is to develop a clear description of what Oughtto-be. The problem most people have at It’s never too early to start thinking ahead for the future longevity of your farm. this stage is failing to set aside perceived By writing things down and using available online tools, you ensure that the family limitations. Limitations sound like, “I’d farm is positioned for success - even when you’re no longer able to take care of it yourself.

Editorial photo via AdobeStock

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and the vague “down the road” limiting statements. Shut those down for now, we’ll get to them later. If you’re having trouble, try this exercise: imagine yourself sitting on a cloud, your earthly expiration occurred yesterday (shocking, I know!), and today you’re looking at the farm from a higher perspective, unable to have any further personal involvement. Now answer these questions with full honesty: 1. What do you see happening on the farm today, a year from now, is it still operating in five years?

2. What do you most want to see happening?

Go ahead and try it now. Write down some notes. The next paragraph can wait!

If you’re still with me at this point, asking, “Is this guy seriously telling me to sit on a cloud and consider impossible things?” I don’t blame you for asking because it sounds ridiculous when you put it like that! However, I promise it’s not fluff. I want to approach you from a different angle to get you to think about your own succession from a different angle.

Succession planning requires stepping out of the comfort zone of working in the farm business/estate to work on the farm business/estate itself. Once we have our Ought work done, we can get back to where we’re both more comfortable: being practical, dealing with the facts on the ground, coming up with solutions, then getting the work done.

Moving on, the second stage of the of the planning process is documenting what Is. This is simply getting as clear and comprehensive a picture as possible of the facts on the ground.

Part of this stage is an honest assessment of the farm operation’s ability to thrive without you actively involved, maybe even removed entirely.

A common issue that comes up here is the need to prepare people and handoff relationships, e.g.: Who handles contract negotiation? Books and cash flow management? Accounting and legal? Banking? Crop and stock management decisions?

Equipment Maintenance? Etc.. Who is involved in each of these roles on both sides and are there any major holes that need to be filled through hiring or training?

In addition to the more subjective task of describing your operation’s function without your involvement, whether that occurs tomorrow or many years from now, there is a gathering of “nuts and bolts” that needs to be done as it relates to your farm’s legal, tax, and financial situation. This information is needed to round out the picture of what Is. Here are some essential items to organize as you prepare your farms succession plan: last two years’ tax returns (business and personal), balance sheet organized by ownership (are your assets titled in the name of a farm corp., owned personally, in trust, etc.?), copies of deeds and statements, copies of existing legal documents like business formation, operating and buy-sell agreements, wills, trusts, etc. A more comprehensive document checklist can be found on our website in the Agriculture section here: https://www.myopenadvisors.com/resources.

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I describe planning as a process of reconciling the gap between what Ought-to-be and what Is. Going back to your postdeath cloud-seat, what did you see? A total mess, pretty good alignment, or maybe something in between? We may not be able to completely solve all the issues immediately in every case, but there are almost always multiple solutions that can begin to bridge the gap. The list of potential solutions that we educate farm families about during our planning work is the third stage of the process – the Can. In other words, what are the potential things you Can do to get from where you are today (Is) to where you want to be (Ought)? There are good solutions and bad solutions available. In my experience it usually takes a combination of good solutions to get great results.

The last stage of the planning process is Will - the outcome that we believe we Will experience as a result of the actions we agree we should take. We convert our recommendations from the plan into an Implementation Punch List. We work through the action list together to bring the plan into reality. This is what causes the farm operation to look different – more in line with what you want.

In closing, this article is a bit longer than usual, and I want to thank you for reading. I made a comment in the first sentence that our process is Bible-based. If you’re wondering about that, consider replacing our words Ought – Is – Can – Will with the Biblical sequence Creation – Fall – Reconciliation – Redemption and visit Ephesians 1:3-62 to bring them together in the context of God’s plan. I think you’ll see the connection.

Lastly, we have a limited number of no-cost basic farm estate planning slots available for 2026. These are available to family farms that generate a minimum of $250,000 annual revenue and want to transition land and operations to the next generation of their family within the next 10 years. We require both the current owner and future next-gen owner to be actively engaged in the plan. There is no need to purchase anything to participate. Feel free to contact me (ryan@myopenadvisors.com) to find out more.

Wishing you a productive and fruitful 2026, both in harvest and in securing your farm legacy!

Securities and investment advisory services offered through Osaic Wealth, Inc. member FINRA/SIPC. Osaic Wealth is separately owned and other entities and/or marketing names, products or services referenced here are independent of Osaic Wealth.

1.

Michael Metzger, Sequencing: Deciphering Your Company’s DNA

(Game Changer Books LLC, 2010) 2.

The Holy Bible, New King James Version (Thomas Nelson, a division

of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Inc., 2020)

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On a mission to

end dead zones T-Satellite provides coverage even in the most remote locations where tower signals can’t reach—all to keep you connected in places you never thought possible.

T-Satellite provides: • Free 911 texting, even if you’re not a T-Mobile member • Texting and live location sharing • Satellite compatible apps including Google Maps, Accuweather, Overwatch & Rescue, All Trails, and more T-Satellite seamlessly works with most modern phones from the last four years, so there’s no need for new devices, apps, or interfaces. It just works.

T-Mobile.com/Satellite Texting & select satellite-ready apps with compatible device in most outdoor areas in the U.S. where you can see the sky. Satellite service, including text to 911, may be delayed, limited, or unavailable. Included with Experience Beyond plans or $10/mo.; auto renews monthly. Cancel anytime in T-Life App. Alltrails iOS availability anticipated December 2025.

Make History Together: Host a Community Contest for America’s 250th

By Amanda Brozana

• Turn-key contest templates. Pie bake-offs, photography

National Grange Membership & Leadership Development Director

exhibitions, quilt squares, children’s chalk-art, pickle canning—you’ll receive proven contest frameworks with age divisions, judging criteria, and tie-breaker rules. Prefer a beard-growing or drone-filming contest instead? Each template includes “flex points” so you can swap categories or scoring weights without reinventing the wheel.

• Fillable promotional materials. Editable flyers, social-media graphics, press-release shells, and event-day signage come pre-formatted in patriotic red, white, and blue. Just type in your Grange name, date, and contact info, then

This July, the United States will mark its semiquincentennial — 250 years of striving, building, and dreaming together.

It’s a once-in-a-lifetime milestone, and people everywhere will be looking for a story they can tell their grandchildren about “what I did for America 250.”

Your Grange can help them write that story—literally—by sponsoring a fun, engaging community contest that puts local talent, hometown pride, and Grange fellowship on center stage.

Why a Contest?

print or post.

• Judging matrices and score sheets. We’ll supply rubric grids that balance technical merit and creative flair, plus easy-to-follow instructions for your volunteer judges. No more scratching tallies on scrap paper; everything totals automatically.

• Project-planning checklists. From first brainstorming meeting to final thank-you note, you’ll have a step-by-step schedule that keeps the committee on track. Time-savvy shortcuts highlight when to order ribbons, book equipment, or line

Contests create memories. Whether it’s a pie-baking showdown, a youth essay challenge, or a yard-decorating competition, friendly rivalry turns an anniversary into a personal adventure. Participants

up local media coverage.

• Sponsorship and partnership tips and a sample letter.

Tips, a talking-points sheet and a sample letter help you

get bragging rights, spectators get entertainment, and the whole community gains a feel-good moment they’ll retell for years.

Contests forge connections. The judges’ table needs volunteers, prizes need sponsors, and entries need cheerleaders. Every role is an invitation for

neighbors—long-time

members,

brand-new

residents, and curious onlookers—to collaborate with the Grange. Those casual contacts often blossom into lasting membership.

Contests showcase the Grange brand. From our earliest fairs to today’s digital forums, the Grange has excelled at bringing people together around shared skills and hometown hospitality. A well-run contest reminds the public that the Grange is still the go-to place for community-building—and that we do it with integrity, inclusivity, and a dash of fun.

We’ll Do the Heavy Lifting To make launching a contest as easy as lighting a birthday candle, the National Grange will release a digital America 250 Contest Toolkit. Here’s what you’ll find inside:

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From pie bake-offs to essay contests to beard-growing, there’s no end to the kind of contests you can create to celebrate a bit of Americana for the country’s 250th birthday!

Photo licensed via AdobeStock

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approach other civic clubs, credit unions, local businesses,

5. Follow up, follow up, follow up. Within a week, send thank-

media outlets or tourist bureaus that might donate prizes

you notes to sponsors, judges, and volunteers; post a

or co-brand the event.

wrap-up article on social media; and invite contestants to your next meeting or potluck. Momentum is membership

Five Quick Tips for Contest Success

1. Pick a theme that sings locally. “American Ingenuity” could inspire a maker fair in a tech town while “Our Agricultural Roots” might spark a zucchini race where contestants attach squash to wheeled bases and race them down a ramp—no motors or weights allowed. Align the contest with your community’s heritage and passions.

2. Invite every age. Multigenerational events reflect the Grange’s fraternal spirit. Pair a youth coloring contest with an adult photography class; the buzz of kids’ excitement often draws their parents through your hall doors.

3. Tell the story while it’s happening. Snap behind-the-scenes photos of setup, livestream judging highlights, and post winner interviews. The more your neighbors see friendly faces at Grange events, the more likely they’ll show up next time.

4. Celebrate all participants. Ribbons and plaques are great, but don’t stop there. Feature every entry in an online gallery, publish recipes in the local paper, or host a post-

gold.

Your Next Step Set aside 20 minutes at your next Grange meeting to choose a contest concept and appoint a small planning committee. Once the National Grange releases the America 250 Contest Toolkit, you’ll be ready to plug in dates and details.

Let’s Make 2026 a Year of Community Stories Two hundred fifty years ago, ordinary colonists decided to do something extraordinary together. In 2026, ordinary townspeople can echo that spirit by gathering around a pie, a painting, a perfectly carved wooden eagle—whatever sparks local pride. Your Grange can be the catalyst.

Give your neighbors a contest they’ll talk about at cookouts and class reunions long after the fireworks fade. Give them a reason to walk through your doors and discover the fellowship and purpose that define the Grange. And give America 250 the grassroots celebration it deserves.

Ready, set—let the contests begin!

contest exhibit. Recognition today becomes nostalgia tomorrow—and nostalgia keeps your Grange top-of-mind.

Welcome your new members in style

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Vaccines: A Shield for You and Your Family

By Elana Kieffer Blass, MBA Director of Strategic Alliances, Gerontological Society of America Winter brings freezing temperatures and snow on the ground – the last thing we need is to also get sick! Yet this time of year also coincides with the flu and respiratory season. One way to help ensure we don’t get sick is by making sure you and your loved ones are vaccinated for preventable diseases.

First and foremost, vaccines protect you, your family, your friends, and your coworkers. They offer additional benefits that extend beyond simply helping you stay healthy. When vaccines prevent illness or make it less severe, you can stay healthy, avoid expensive medical care, keep working, continue providing care for family members or friends, and participate in your community.

When many people are vaccinated, preventable diseases are less likely to spread to other people and those who are more vulnerable are better protected too.

The health care system also

experiences less strain. In this way, the benefits of vaccination extend outward— from each person to their family, neighborhood, and broader community.

Health Benefits of Vaccines

How exactly do vaccines work to protect you? They work by training your immune system to recognize harmful germs so it can respond quickly and prevent illness. After you get a vaccine, your body creates a “memory” of the germ, which helps protect you if you are exposed to it in the future. Because vaccines usually contain germs that are dead or weakened, they cannot cause illness in healthy people, and still give strong protection.

We live much longer today than we did in the early 1900s thanks to childhood vaccines, which greatly reduced deaths from diseases like diphtheria, measles, and polio. Today, as people live longer, vaccines are important not only for children but also for adults—and especially older adults who are at higher risk for infections.

Respiratory infections are also a major concern.

Influenza (the flu), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and pneumococcal disease cause many hospitalizations and deaths in people over age 65. Vaccines for these illnesses are available and help reduce severe disease, prevent hospital stays, and help us all stay independent for longer.

Pneumococcal disease is a serious bacterial Staying up to date on recommended vaccines is a simple, infection that can effective way to protect your health and independence as cause pneumonia, you age.

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Editorial photo licensed via AdobeStock

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meningitis, and other infections in the bloodstream. It affects older adults and people with long-term health problems more often than younger adults. The flu remains a major cause of preventable death each year, and RSV—often thought of as a childhood illness—can also cause severe lung disease, particularly in older adults. These infections can often be prevented or made less serious through vaccination. You can learn about which vaccines you or your family are recommended to get any age by going to https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/byage/index.html.

Economic Benefits of Vaccines

Vaccines don’t just protect you from getting sick—they also save money for you and for society. Many studies show that vaccination programs are one of the best investments in public health. For every $1 spent on childhood vaccines, the country saves about $11 in medical costs and lost work time. A major CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) study found that vaccinating children born between 1994 and 2023 saved: • $540 billion in medical costs (such as doctor visits and hospital stays) • $2.7 trillion in overall economic benefits These savings come from preventing hospitalizations, reducing the spread of disease, avoiding long-term disabilities, and allowing people to keep working rather than caring for sick children or family members.

Vaccines also help avoid the high costs of disease outbreaks. For example: • Annual routine vaccines from 1994–2023 prevented 32 million hospitalizations and over 1 million deaths.

• When measles outbreaks occur, they are extremely expensive. The 2025 measles outbreak in Texas

cost about $4.5 million for medical care and public health response.

And investigating just one measles case can cost $30,000 to $50,000. for medical care and public health response.

And investigating just one measles case can cost $30,000 to $50,000.

Vaccines also help businesses and workers by reducing sick days and keeping people healthier. For example: • The flu causes about 17 million missed workdays every year.

• Widespread flu vaccination can cut that number in half.

Graphic provided by GSA

This means fewer disruptions at work, less need to find staff replacements, and smoother business operations.

Vaccines also indirectly support people who care for family members. About 20% of U.S. adults provide short or long-term

How Vaccines Get Approved in the United States

Societal Benefits of Vaccines

Before a vaccine can be used in the U.S., it has to go through a long, careful process to make sure it is safe, works well, and is made correctly. Here is the process for how vaccines are developed and approved: • Scientists research and discover possible vaccine ideas.

• Early laboratory work shows whether the idea might work.

• Tests in labs and in animals check safety and whether the vaccine triggers an immune response.

• Studies in people (also known as clinical trials) test safety, side effects, and how well the vaccine works.

• The government reviews all the data and decides whether to approve the vaccine.

• Public health experts recommend how the vaccine should be used.

• Safety continues to be monitored after the vaccine is available to the public.

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care or assistance to a family member or friend, and around 4.5 million are in the “sandwich generation,” caring for both children and aging parents. When fewer people get sick, caregivers have fewer disruptions and can stay in the workforce.

This is especially important for women, who make up most caregivers and risk losing income or decreasing retirement savings when they have to miss work.

Vaccines help more than just the people who get them— they strengthen the health, stability, and well-being of your whole community. By preventing illness, they protect people who get sick easily or have weak immune systems, reduce the spread of preventable disease, and help support families, workplaces, and the economy.

When enough people in a community are vaccinated, a preventable and contagious disease has a much harder time spreading. This is called community immunity (or herd immunity). It is especially important for: • People who cannot get vaccinated for medical or other reasons • People whose immune systems don’t respond strongly to vaccines (such as many older adults) Because some older adults have weaker immune responses and may have chronic health conditions, they benefit greatly when those around them are vaccinated. High vaccination coverage helps older adults stay independent and reduces the need for a hospital stay or care in a nursing home or rehabilitation center.

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When we stay healthy, we can continue: • Working • Caring for family members and friends • Volunteering • Participating in social and community life

the workforce, caring for their families, and engaging in their communities. With such wide-reaching health, economic, and social impacts, vaccines create value for everyone. They help you, your family, your workplace, and your community thrive.

To find a pharmacy near you that provides vaccines, go to https://vaccinefinder.org/

Vaccines help prevent the illnesses that disrupt these roles, making our communities stronger and more connected across generations.

Despite the health, economic, and societal benefits of vaccines, there have been recent drops in vaccination rates that put our hard-won progress at risk, increasing the chance of preventable disease outbreaks. To protect these gains here are things that you can do: • Educate yourself and your community about the safety and effectiveness of vaccines.

• Ask your doctor or nurse about which vaccines you need at your next appointment.

Vaccines are essential for a healthy society. They protect vulnerable individuals, reduce the spread of disease, and help people remain active in their families and communities. As one of the greatest achievements in public health, vaccines have dramatically lowered illness and death from diseases such as smallpox, polio, rabies, and common childhood illnesses.

Effective for people of all ages, vaccines provide benefits that go beyond individual health: they save money by preventing costly illnesses and strengthen society by keeping people in

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About the Gerontological Society of America: GSA is the oldest and largest interdisciplinary organization devoted to research, education, and practice in the field of aging. GSA’s principal mission — and that of our 6,000 members — is to promote the study of aging and disseminate information to scientists, decision makers, and the general public.

Founded in 1945, GSA is the driving force behind advancing innovation in aging — both domestically and internationally. Our members come from more than 50 countries.

The Vision of GSA is Meaningful Lives as we Age. Learn more at www.geron.org.

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Cutting Medication Costs without Cutting Corners Courtesy of Family Features As the cost of living continues to rise, many Americans are being forced to make difficult financial decisions. Skipping medications might seem like a quick way to save money, but this can lead to serious health risks and higher costs down the road.

In fact, research shows 27% of Americans skip prescriptions each month due to cost. More than half of Americans who filled a prescription this year said the cost felt like a financial burden.

Cindy George, MPH, a senior personal finance editor at GoodRx and nationally recognized health journalist, shared expert advice to help consumers improve their health care cost literacy, reduce expenses and stay healthy without overspending.

Understand the True Cost of Medications Many people assume the pharmacy counter price is nonnegotiable, but the cost of the same medication can vary significantly.

“Costs can vary by upwards of $100 from one pharmacy to the next, even in the same ZIP code,” George said. “Understanding how to compare prices and find the most affordable option is incredibly valuable.”

By entering the medication name, along with dosage and ZIP code, individuals can quickly compare prices in their area using GoodRx. Using the website or app, you can explore alternative forms of a medication and get suggestions to help you talk with your doctor or pharmacist about more affordable options.

Savings, cost estimators from hospitals and insurance plans and State Health Insurance Assistance Programs can help you better understand and manage costs,” she said. “If something is unclear, don’t hesitate to ask your provider, pharmacist or insurance representative to walk you through your bills or Explanation of Benefits.”

When Insurance Falls Short, You Still Have Options

Simple Strategies Can Add Up

Only about half of prescriptions are fully covered by insurance without restrictions.

“Even insured individuals are struggling to keep up with health care costs,” George said. “More are finding themselves underinsured, and that’s making basic health care harder to afford and access.”

That’s why comparison shopping is increasingly important, including price comparisons at different pharmacies.

“Cost comparison tools can help people find lower prices on both generic and brand-name medications, regardless of their coverage status,” George said.

While cost comparison tools are not a full replacement for health insurance, they can be a helpful way to reduce medication costs and avoid unexpected surprises at the pharmacy.

Build Confidence Through Cost Literacy Cost literacy involves understanding how insurance works, what’s included in a plan’s formulary, how to interpret billing documents and how to challenge costs that seem too high.

According to George, “health care cost literacy” is one of the best investments you can make in your financial well-being.

“Tools like the GoodRx Guide to Drug Costs, Coverage and

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Photo Courtesy of ShutterStock

George recommends a few strategies that can reduce out-ofpocket costs for medications: • Always compare prices, including your insurance copay.

“People assume their insurance is the best deal for accessing a medication at the lowest cost, but that’s not always true,” George said.

• Uncover savings programs. Many pharmaceutical companies offer copay cards or patient assistance programs that can dramatically reduce costs.

• Explore generic medications, if available. Generic medications typically cost less than their brand-name counterparts. Check with a health care professional before opting for a generic.

• Consider a 90-day supply. For chronic conditions, ask your health care professional whether you can switch from a 30day supply of medication to a 90-day supply.

• Try delivery. Ordering through a mail-order pharmacy can add convenience and, in many cases, offer lower prices.

Visit GoodRx.com to compare prices and take more control over your medication costs.

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WE'LL NEVER STOP LOOKING FOR ANSWERS FOR PATIENTS WHO NEED THEM.

Convention At Sea

Aboard the National Grange’s 159th Convention at Sea, members gathered to conduct business, strengthen fellowship, and chart the course for rural advocacy’s future.

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The Carnival Horizon, docked in 37 Bonaire on November 14, 2025

Photo by Philip J Vonada

From November 8-16, 2025, nearly 400 Grangers and

“For almost 160 years, the Grange has stood as proof that

friends gathered aboard the Carnival Horizon, sailing from

when ordinary people come together with purpose, we can do

Miami to the Caribbean ABC Islands of Aruba, Bonaire, and

extraordinary things,” Hamp said.

Curaçao. This first-of-its-kind convention was led by the

As the Grange has advocated for agriculture throughout its

Eastern Region, chaired by Crystal and David Allen (NC), and

existence, a bulk of the annual address focused on a broad

Convention Liaisons Jody and Jodi Ann Cameron (CT).

range of agricultural issues. Hamp warned that “a nation that cannot feed itself, cannot defend itself,” suggesting that consolidation, aging producers, and large farming corporations that overshadow local producers are threatening the future of family farms, and thereby national security. She highlighted that America continues to lose, on average, more than one family farm per day.

Hamp also criticized unsteady tariffs and trade disputes that disrupt markets, arguing that farmers “don’t need managed crises; they need functioning markets.” She urged federal, state, and local governments to pursue trade “rooted in reciprocity and reason.” She encouraged building stronger

Long-time Grange friends Harry and Cindy Greer (CO) and Billy and Lena Shufeldt (OK) catch up at the National Grange’s private Sail Away party.

Photo by Philip Vonada

global relations and more reliable partnerships. “The Grange will always stand for trade that feeds families, sustains communities, and strengthens America.”

While welcoming new technology, Hamp warned that

The convention officially kicked off on Saturday evening with

“progress without principle is profit without purpose,” and

a private Sail Away party in the Horizon’s Liquid Lounge, where

urged policymakers to ensure that innovations such as precision

attendees were able to meet and mingle with Grange members

agriculture and artificial intelligence serve producers, not

from all over the country. The Camerons and National Grange

corporations, and empower local farmers instead of exploiting

President Christine Hamp addressed all of the attendees and

them for data.

thanked them for their willingness to try something new.

Over the past few decades, the Grange has also made

National Grange President calls for Action to strengthen rural America On Sunday, November 9, President Christine Hamp addressed the officers, delegates, and members assembled at the 159th annual conference of the National Grange in her

significant inroads in improving healthcare access in rural America. She stressed the growing crisis that rural America is facing, which includes rural hospitals closing at an alarming rate, a lack of access to specialists or even standard care, and rural Americans being priced out of access.

annual address, entitled “Hands that Feed, Hearts that Lead.”

The National Grange is the United States’ oldest rural fraternity, founded in 1867, with a focus on advocacy and service for rural America and beyond.

“Today, the needs are many, the challenges are real, and so too are the opportunities and the people ready to seize them,” Hamp said. “We have seen time and again that when rural voices are absent – or when those who care about rural prosperity – are not in the room, the essentials of our quality of life are the first to be trimmed from budgets.”

In her annual address, Hamp positioned the Grange as a unifying force, capable of addressing the many crises facing rural and small-town America. She called for the Grange to advocate on a wide variety of issues that affect all who live in rural and small-town America, including agriculture, immigration programs, healthcare and mental health, veterans, infrastructure and rural development, education, and civic engagement.

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National Grange President Christine Hamp delivers her annual addresses at the 159th Annual National Grange Convention.

Photo by Scott Nicholson

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“We urge Congress to ensure stable,

semiquincentennial

the result, Hamp said, is worth every bit

long-term funding of essential programs,”

arriving in 2026, Hamp called on every

of effort. “Modernization doesn’t mean

Hamp said, “These are not entitlements

American to rededicate themselves to

losing our soul,” she told attendees. “It

or handouts; they are investments in

“the ideals that shaped this Republic:

means strengthening our connection.”

the health, dignity, and productivity of

liberty, equality, justice, fellowship, and

She encouraged all Grange members

our people.” Hamp urged lawmakers to

service.” She also urged every citizen to

to participate in the process of creating

find ways to expand healthcare access in

renew their habits of volunteerism, civic

a better, stronger connection with one

rural America, including the expansion of

engagement, and cooperation.

another.

rural residency programs or the creation

United

States’

the

That sense of purpose carried through

of incentives that attract highly qualified

vehicle and voice that can help create

Positioning

the

Grange

as

her discussion of Project Sustenance,

practitioners to rural areas.

real, lasting, positive change in rural

the Grange’s initiative to promote food

Hamp also called for a stronger

and small-town communities around

security,

emphasis to be put on mental health in

the nation. “Let us show up – in our

community resilience. Over the past

rural America, citing that “suicide rates

communities, in our statehouses, in our

year, more than $60,000 in grants helped

in rural counties are 60 percent higher

schools and in our Grange halls... as

local Granges feed families, mentor

than in urban areas, and 65 percent of

authors of a movement,” Hamp said.

youth, support seniors, and strengthen

rural counties have no psychiatrist at all.”

“Let us welcome others to do so with

their towns. Those efforts didn’t just

She urged support for coverage of and

us, shoulder to shoulder, amplifying our

make a difference—they also brought

access to mental health for all citizens,

voice… bound together by purpose,

in hundreds of new members. “People

but particularly highlighted the need for

sustained by service, and committed to

don’t join organizations,” Hamp said.

support among veterans and caregivers.

one another.”

“They join impact.”

personal

sustainability,

and

One of the most significant issues

Hamp closed with one final call for

Reviewing some of the successes of

hindering healthcare is a lack of access

unity and purpose. “When rural America

this past year, Hamp noted the success

to broadband in rural America, Hamp

thrives,” she concluded, “so too does

of the Three-Board Retreat, which united

said,

the nation.”

the governing boards of the National

A Call to Act

Grange,

which

limits

even

telehealth

options designed to reach vulnerable populations.

“In the 21st century, broadband is no longer a luxury – it is a lifeline… The Grange calls on federal and state leaders to complete the job of rural connectivity once and for all. Every farm, every business, and every home deserves equitable access to the tools of modern life – not just the bare minimum,” Hamp urged.

She called for increased investment in

rural

infrastructure,

education

opportunities, workforce development, entrepreneurship, disaster preparedness, and affordable housing. “Rural America doesn’t ask for charity. We ask for partnership – and a fair chance to build the future with our own hands.”

Hamp also called for the renewal of authentic civic engagement. “From the grassroots to the highest offices in the land, we must rebuild the habits of civility and cooperation,” she urged. With the

Following address,

her

annual

external

National

Grange

President

Christine Hamp also delivered an internal address that highlighted many of the issues the National Grange is facing and tackling in the coming year.

Her

address,

entitled

“Grange

Strong: Our Call to Act,” celebrated progress, confronted hard truths, and challenged members nationwide to lead with courage and conviction.

Hamp began by reminding members that

the

Grange’s

strength

lies

in

connection. Just as a quilt is stitched from many pieces, the Grange binds people, farms, and communities together into something stronger than any single thread. That connection took a major leap forward this year with the launch of Grange Engage, a new online platform that links members nationwide with resources, training, and fellowship. The project wasn’t without challenges, but

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GOOD DAY!™ MAGAZINE www.nationalgrange.org

Grange

Foundation,

and

Grange Advocacy. She also commended the efforts that went into preserving Grange’s heritage while moving forward with the professional recording of the Seventh Degree in April 2025. She urged members to consider moving forward and performing the same preservation for the additional Degrees.

Introducing

new

initiatives

and

programs, Hamp announced the launch of a Convention Management Team, working

to

conventions

make

National

Grange

an

“exhilarating

and

memorable experience” for all Grange members. “We didn’t make this change because the old way failed,” Hamp said, “We made it because our members deserve better, and reexamining our goals and processes can make that happen.”

Hamp announced that the National Grange has launched a new pilot program in six states that offers greater flexibility

39

in chartering a Grange, making it more adaptable to meet community needs.

“This is the Grange at its most alive,” Hamp said. “Being a Grange isn’t about the building – it’s about belonging.”

Hamp also announced that the Grange is embarking on its first rebrand in over 60 years, with early steps now in place and a full launch in 2026. This initiative isn’t meant to change who the Grange is, but rather to show who we already are, and to highlight our

The guest Officers who closed the Monday business meeting. Grange members had the opportunity to win chances through the Grange Foundation.

Photo by Scott Nicholson

relevance and united purpose through a

every community. “Our members are

serving: President – Marg Ohlsen (WA);

contemporary lens.

watching how we lead,” she said, “If we

Vice President – Danielle Whitman (NJ);

Additionally, the National Grange

model courage, they will be courageous.

Lecturer ––Jennifer Oliver (WA); Steward

will work with the presidents and other

If we lead with conviction, we turn resolve

– Tom Cullen (WA); Assistant Steward

leaders in every State Grange to develop

into movement.”

– Glenn Gibson (MA);

Performance bolster and

Improvement

membership

establish

new

Plans

Lady Assistant

to

“Let us be the generation that acts with

opportunities

boldness, not timidity,” she concluded.

– Melanie Hudson (NC);

“The future is ours to create… because

Geri Wallins (NJ); Secretary – Jennifer

together, we are Grange Strong.”

Danko (PA); Gatekeeper – Jan Williams

National Grange essential business

(NC); Ceres – Sheryl Ayers (CO); Pomona

Granges

while

strengthening existing ones.

However, Hamp cautioned that it is not just up to high-level leaders to make the Grange intentional and relevant in

While

fellowship

completes and

fun

were

touted as core components of this year’s convention, it wasn’t the sole purpose. On Sunday, Monday, Friday, and Saturday, Delegates and officers completed the essential work of the Grange.

Throughout

the

meeting,

nearly

120 resolutions and committee reports were discussed and voted on - ranging from

agricultural

issues

to

internal

Grange policies, and from healthcare to immigration. These issues affect

Steward – Danielle Hartley (RI); Chaplain Treasurer –

– Karie Blasingame (IL); Flora – Trisha Lovgren (WA); Executive Committee – Lana Korte (IL); George Spies (DC, Potomac); Stephen Seuberth (DE); and Naomi Fletcher (CA/MI).

In another historic first, Tuesday morning saw the first conferral of the Seventh Degree presented by video.

Introduced and concluded in-person by High Priest of Demeter Roger Bostwick, the ceremony proved to be impressive and moving for the candidates who were welcomed into the highest Degree of the Grange.

not just rural America, but every citizen and resident.

On

Monday

afternoon,

seventeen guest officers closed the session of the National Grange. A fundraiser for the Grange

Foundation,

officers

had the chance to buy their seats to give to family or friends, National Grange Ceres Cindy Greer presents the American flag during the opening of the business meeting of the 159th Annual Convention.

Photo by Philip Vonada

40

while all other seats were raffled to Foundation donors.

The

following

Grange

members had the honor of

P

Although Convention looked different, there was plenty of time and space to complete the work of the Grange. The Horizon’s Limelight Lounge served as “home base” for the business meeting.

Photo by Philip Vonada

GOOD DAY!™ MAGAZINE www.nationalgrange.org

On Friday morning, Youth Officers opened the business session of the day, led by President Taylor Rogers. Officers represented Iowa, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Washington, and Wisconsin.

On Saturday morning, Chaplain Kay Hoffman Stiles led a memorial service in remembrance of the National Grange leaders who passed to the Great Grange Above in the previous year.

Later on Saturday, High Priest Bostwick installed the officers of the National Grange, using a new presentation to demonstrate the implements of the offices.

George and Theresa Kenney (MA) spent time snorkeling in Curaçao, one of the many excursions and adventures Grange members got to experience at this year’s convention.

Photo by Theresa Kenney relaxed and rejuvenated heading back into the business meeting on Friday.

In addition to the fellowship opportunities, there were also opportunities to learn for future leaders of the Grange. Junior Grangers participated in morning workshops and activities, and Youth and Young Adults took part in the “Leadership Academy at Sea.” All groups spent time exploring the opportunities the High Priest of Demeter Roger Bostwick (right) installs Christine Hamp (left) for her second term as President of the National Grange.

Photo by Philip Vonada

ship had to offer, from mini golf to high ropes to towel folding.

Learn more about these opportunities in the Junior & Youth sections of the magazine.

National Grange Celebrates

Fellowship in every corner Throughout the cruise, Grange members could be found in

On Friday, November 21, National

all corners of the ship - from restaurants to karaoke to enjoying

Grange Honors Night was presented

the decks and pools. Members interacted with the other

online and streamed live on YouTube

2,000 ship residents - discussing the Grange and its mission to

and the National Grange’s Facebook

strengthen our hometowns.

Grange groups intermingled with old and new friends alike throughout the week, strengthening fraternal bonds in addition to working together to create programming and action. Grangers’ cabins were also identifiable up and down the hallways thanks to convention magnets, and convention doorhangers that were made and sold by Michigan Grange member Eugene Fletcher.

A unique feature of this year’s convention was three “free” days between days of the business meeting. On Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, the Horizon docked in Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao, respectively.

On the islands, Grangers indulged in learning culture, trying new foods, seeing historic sites of the islands, enjoying beaches relaxing, snorkeling, or engaging in watersports, going on a multitude of island tours, and engaging in fellowship with one another and the people who live there.

This “break” meant Grange delegates and officers were

P

Honors,

page.

“We hope by offering this program virtually, we are able to reach many more Grange members, friends, and community members to show the amazing things the National Grange has accomplished throughout the past year and the legacy of the members who built the Grange we have today,” said Communications Director Philip J Vonada.

The evening was designed to honor the Grangers who built the legacy we work from today, and celebrate the great work being done in Granges and by Grangers nationwide. It included the Grange Hall of Fame induction, a Celebration of Remembrance led by National Grange Chaplain Kay Hoffman Stiles, and departmental awards for the year.

National Grange President Christine Hamp welcomed everyone to the evening, highlighting that the event would be “a tribute to excellence, to service, to creativity, and to the enduring spirit that has carried our organization forward for nearly 160 years.”

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41

Hall of member

Fame

inducts

new

Saunders at an agricultural fair in central

Joseph William Fryman, President,

New York. Saunders was making inquiries

Nebraska State Grange, 2004-

George Spies, a member of the

on behalf of Oliver H. Kelley’s idea for a

2012; National Grange Treasurer,

secret American Order for Agriculture.

2007-2009;

Grange Hall of Fame Team, submitted this year’s honoree for the Grange Hall of Fame, and presented his biography.

of Husbandry officially adopted the rites

Barbara Ann Pagler Rush, First Lady,

and ceremonies of the European Order

Rhode Island State Grange, 1986-

of Demeter for its highest controlling

1990

body - now known as the Assembly of

John J. “Jack” Cottrell, President,

Demeter; McDowell would be its first

Rhode Island State Grange, 19982002

Unfortunately, Marulli died in 1866 and never saw the fruits of his labor spread in the United States. However, since then, more than 200,00 individuals

The 2025 inductee to the Grange Hall of Fame is Don Sebastiano Marulli, Duke

Grange

Executive Committee, 2009-2017

High Priest.

Don Sebastiano Marulli, Duke of Ascoli, was the 2025 inductee into the Grange Hall of Fame. He is credited with introducing the Eleusian Mysteries to Francis McDowell, setting the stage for the creation of the Seventh Degree.

Image in public domain

National

In January 1868, the Order of Patrons

Michael

Keller

Lynch,

President,

Delaware State Grange, 20122020 Janet

Morvatz

Price,

National

have been initiated into the Order of

Grange Deaf Activities Director,

Demeter.

1988-2001

The Duke of Ascoli, Don Sebastiano

Vera LaVerne Reichardt Schif Smith,

Marulli’s gift to the people of the United

First Lady, Kansas State Grange,

States and especially to the Order

1984-1987

of Patrons of Husbandry is gratefully

Patricia “Patty” Cottrell, First Lady,

acknowledged and his place eternally

Rhode Island State Grange, 1998-

secured in the National Grange Hall of

2002

Fame.

Paolotto Marulli, a descendant of Don Sebastiano, also joined the Honors Night from his home in Italy, thanking the National Grange on behalf of his family.

Celebration of Remembrance National

Chaplain

Kay

Hoffman

Departmental Awards Connie

Johnston,

Distinguished

Grange Administor, kicked off the awards portion of the evening by announcing the 48 Distinguished Grange recipients for the year, which included four State Granges, five Pomona Granges, and 39

of Ascoli. Marulli was the Pritano, or

Stiles chose the theme “Footprints

life-long high priest and supreme head

in the Sand” for this year’s memorial

State Granges honored included

of the Order of Demeter, who secretly

service, which included remembrances

continued the celebration of the Eleusian

Maryland State Grange (16 years),

and eulogies for many National Grange

Mysteries of the goddess Demeter; as a

leaders, including:

decsendant of one of the lines of Eleusis, said to have been chosen by Demeter in 1216, Marulli worked to preserve the mysteries and ceremonies.

In the 1850s, Francis McDowell who would later be known as one of the Founders of the Grange, met the Pritano

Ted Emory Amick, National Grange Extension Director, 1972-1974

Community Granges.

Pennsylvania State Grange (14 years), New York State Grange (8 years), and Michigan State Grange (4 years).

Also

honored

were

three

Richard Barry “Dick” Weiss, National

Community Granges who have reached

Grange Chief Operating Officer,

“Distinguished” status each year since

2002-2007

the program began - Five Mile Prairie

Mary S. “Sharon” Croucher, First Lady of New York State Grange,

#905 (WA), Redland #796 (OR), and Stanford #808 (NY).

and was initiatied into the Order. It was

1995-2007;

Grange

Applications for the 2025-2026 year

Marulli’s hope that McDowell would

Delegate from New York, 2012-

are already available online. Johnston

share the Order with the United States

2021; National Grange Youth Co-

reminded everyone that the program is

and initiate other, providing written

Director, 1981-1983

open to State, Pomona, Community, and

instructions on conferring the Degree of Demeter.

In 1867, McDowell met William

42

National

Margaret Ann Weaver Smithers, First Lady of Texas State Grange, 20082016

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Junior Granges, and that “every Grange has the ability to be Distinguished.”

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Member Programs Director Loretta Washington recognized the

Finally, Raegan Hartsell

181 Granges, including 5 Juniors and 8 Pomona Granges, who

(NC),

was

announced

qualified as Granges in Action.

as

the

2025-2026

Additionally, she recognized three State Presidents in

National Junior Grange

Action - Joseph Stefenoni (CA), John Benedik (NJ), and Tom

Ambassador. Raegan will

Gwin (WA).

represent Junior Grangers

Finally, Washington recognized the Alexander Family from

nationwide.

Merriconeag Grange #425 in Maine as this year’s Legacy Family

The final awards of the

- honored for having five generations of Grange membership -

evening were presented

all at the same Grange.

by

Past National Grange Lecturer Tom Gwin presented the

Jen

Danko

Samantha Hanson of the

Lecturer’s Department awards for the 2024-2025 Grange year.

National

Best of Show awards included:

Advisory Team.

Quilt Block - Deborah Lancaster (ME)

Garden Design - Richard & Eileen Javaux (ID)

included:

Creative Writing - Leslie Nutter (OK)

Youth

National

Grange

Programs

State -

Pennsylvania State Grange

Virtual Photography - Juniors - Bridget Klein (WA) Brozana,

Youth

presented

Distinguished

Virtual Photography - Adults - Stephanie Day (WA) Amanda

Grange

Awards

Design a Program - Suzy Ramm (OR)

and

and North Carolina State

Membership

&

Leadership Development Director, presented the 2025

Scarlette Ellwanger (IL) poses with her Junior Granger of the Year Award, which was presented during the annual convention. It recognizes her outstanding achievements in community service.

Photo by Scott Nicholson

Grange Junior Mentor Award - Nettie Hartley (RI)

Community Service Award - Nathan Lesh (PA)

Cultivators of the Year to: • California State Grange

Reels Contest winner - Juliana Piers (RI)

• Jody & Jodi Ann Cameron (CT)

The 2025-2026 National Grange Youth & Young Adult

• Joyce & Marty Billquist (MT)

Ambassador Team was announced. Caroline Barber (NC) &

• Eugene Fletcher (MI)

Sadie Johnson (PA) were named as Youth Ambassadors, and

• Deborah Edwards (DE)

Alexandria “Jomni” Tarbell (NY) was named the Young Adult

• Charlie Deach (WA)

Ambassador.

These awards are given annually to Grange members

Additionally, Bonnie Mitson, Community Service Co-

who go above and beyond in working to make the Grange

Director, previously announced a special honor for Gwen

more accessible, or who do extraordinary work in their

Swenson (MN) and Ted Powell (CT) as Community Service

states or regions when it comes to member recruitment and

Directors who achieved 100% participation from the Granges

engagement.

in their states.

These awards go hand-in-hand with the Grange Connector Awards, which were presented by Communications Director Philip J Vonada. These awards, designed to honor Granges

The Honors Night is available to view on the National Grange Facebook page and YouTube channel.

Congratulations to all winners!

and Grange members who excel in communication efforts were awarded to:

The 2025 National Grange Convention showed that new

• Connecticut State Grange

ideas could yield incredible results. Members engaged in

• Valley Grange #1360 (PA)

thoughtful debate, advanced forward-looking initiatives, and

• Joe Miczak (NJ)

proved that innovation and tradition thrived together. As

• Codi Titus (WA)

Grange members returned home, they carried renewed energy

Makayla Piers, a member of the National Junior Grange

and a shared commitment to strengthen their communities and

Advisory Team, presented the Junior Grange Awards.

elevate rural voices for generations to come.

Major awards presented included the Junior Grange Community Service Award to Cohen Piers (RI).

If you weren’t able to join us at sea, we hope to see you in 2026 at the 160th Annual National Grange Convention in

Scarlette Ellwanger (IL) was awarded the Junior Granger

Broken Arrow, Oklahoma.

of the Year for performing more than 200 hours of community service.

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43

Sights from the Convention Left: National Grange President Christine Hamp poses with her mother, Marg Ohlsen, who served as President for the closing of session on Monday.

Below: Longtime Grange friends Jodi Ann Cameron (CT), Claire Logan (RI), and Marie Nicholson (MT) reunite during the business meeting.

Photos by Scott Nicholson Washington Grangers enjoyed some fun on an excursion in Bonaire.

Photo by Brittney Pittman

Left: National Lady Assistant Steward Kathy Gibson (MA) was a bringer of “fun” to the convention, with leis for the National Officers.

Photo by Karie Blasingame

Above: National Grange staff members Philip Vonada, Stephanie Wilkins, and Amanda Brozana hard at work during the business meeting.

Photo by Scott Nicholson High Priest Emeritus Bruce Croucher (NY) addresses attendees during the Assembly’s business meeting. Past National President Ed Luttrell and High Priest Roger Bostwick look on.

Photo by Scott Nicholson California State Grange President and National Grange Executive Committee member Joe Stefenoni relaxes after the opening day of session.

Photo by Samantha Wilkins

The Ellwanger family (IL) poses at the “I Y Aruba” sign in port.

Photo by Karie Blasingame

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2025 Lecturer’s Department winners DESIGN-A-PROGRAM CONTEST

QUILT BLOCK CONTEST Best in Show: Deborah Lancaster (ME) Adults 1st - Deborah Lancaster (ME) 2nd - Cathy Stark (NY) 3rd - Barbara Quinn (NJ)

Juniors 1st - Charlie Thorson (WA) 2nd - Garrett Thorson (WA) 3rd - Jacob Smith (WA)

Special Award - Creative Jar Contents Rebecca Pokorny (KS) Eileen Javaux (ID)

Program for Children Program for Adults - External 1st - Alexandria Tarbell (NY) 1st - Heidi Bornemann (NY) 2nd - Ashley Kolpak (PA) Program for Adults - Internal 1st - Suzy Ramm (OR) 2nd - Carolin Petit (OR)

CREATIVE WRITING CONTEST Best in Show: Leslie Nutter (OK)

GARDEN DESIGN CONTEST Best in Show: Richard & Eileen Javaux (ID) Ground Space Gardens Container Gardens 1st - Richard & Eileen Javaux (ID) 1st - Joyce E. Parker (OR) 2nd - Baylee Holmes (KS) 2nd - Alice Coakley (WA) 3rd - Betsy Huber (PA) Raised Bed Gardens 1st - Suzy Ramm (OR) 2nd - Tonya Walker (ME)

Best in Show: Suzy Ramm (OR)

Poetry 1st - Lorell Fisher (WA) 2nd - Jarrod Gardner (WA) 3rd - Dave Roberts (CT) HM - Michael Terry (OR) HM - Cohen Piers (RI)

Juniors - Any Type 1st - Cohen Piers (RI)

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Essay 1st - Dave Roberts (CT) 2nd - Jodi Vogel (CO) 3rd - Ruth Wilson Francisco (CO)

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Short Story 1st - Leslie Nutter (OK) 2nd - Dave Roberts (CT) 3rd - Roger Lance (WA) HM - Cohen Piers (RI)

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Speaking the Same Language: Using Personality Tests to Strengthen Volunteer Communication

By Philip J Vonada National Grange Communications Director

Every volunteer organization thrives on relationships – and especially so in the Grange. We may share a common purpose, but how we connect and communicate with each other often determines how smoothly the work gets done.

Anyone who has ever chaired a committee, led a project, or tried to coordinate schedules knows that personalities play a major role in group dynamics. Some members prefer a detailed agenda with every step outlined in their inbox a week in advance. Other members prefer a quick reminder phone call or text the morning of. One volunteer might thrive on brainstorming out loud, while another prefers to think quietly and contribute after giving it some thought. And some want to dive right in and figure out the process while they’re working.

Understanding and respecting these different styles can be the difference between frustration and harmony. That’s where personality tests, even the much-debated ones, can provide a helpful framework.

But first, there’s a small caveat: Many popular personality assessments, like the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), Enneagram, or 16 Personalities, are not rooted in rigorous scientific evidence. Psychologists often caution that results can be inconsistent or overly simplistic.

But here’s the key: Just because they’re not perfect doesn’t mean they’re useless. These tools can serve as a “shared vocabulary” for the differences we already sense in ourselves and others. They provide a common language to describe tendencies in how people communicate, make decisions, and respond to group situations. The value lies not in the label itself, but in the awareness it creates.

Finding the Right Fit for Volunteers

For leaders in volunteer-driven organizations like the Grange, awareness is everything. Unlike in a workplace, volunteers are giving their time freely. That means communication missteps - confusion, lack of clarity, or feeling unappreciated, which can quickly turn enthusiasm into burnout.

By using personality frameworks as a guide, leaders can adapt their style to meet volunteers where they are. Let’s look at a few examples.

Myers-Briggs (MBTI): This widely used system sorts people into 16 personality types based on preferences like Introversion vs. Extraversion or Thinking vs. Feeling. You don’t need to memorize all the combinations to gain insight.

Understanding how your volunteers want - or need - to be communicated with can lead to better team cohesion, faster results, and increased retention.

Licensed via AdobeStock

Instead, focus on the basics: does this person need time to reflect, or do they prefer talking it through? Do they respond better to logic-driven explanations, or to appeals that highlight personal values and community impact?

Enneagram: The Enneagram categorizes personalities into nine distinct “types,” each with its own unique motivations and fears. A Type 2 (Helper), for example, may thrive on being recognized for their generosity, while a Type 5 (Observer) may feel most comfortable when they have all the facts. Knowing what energizes someone can help you encourage them effectively.

16 Personalities: A modern offshoot of the MBTI, this test emphasizes “roles” such as Diplomats, Analysts, and Sentinels. It can help volunteers reflect on their group strengths and weaknesses, making discussions about balance and teamwork easier.

Mark Murphy’s Leadership IQ Communication Styles: Unlike the others, this model focuses directly on how people process information—Analytical, Intuitive, Functional, or Personal. When writing an email to a Grange committee, an Analytical member may appreciate data and details, while a Personal member may connect best with stories of community impact.

There are many other tests, including the 35 Strengths and Balances and DiSC, that can also help identify strengths and communication styles your volunteers and members bring

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The Communication Styles quiz from Leadership IQ can help you understand your own styles, as well as those around you.

Graphic via LeadershipIQ.com

to the table. Each test offers its own unique glimpse into the way our brains are wired, and can help Grange leaders establish guidelines for communication and using volunteers to the best of their abilities.

Speaking the Same Language

The real power of these tools is in practical application. Imagine you’re organizing a food drive. You have one volunteer who constantly asks for stepby-step instructions, another who wants to “wing it,” and another who insists on knowing the why before committing their time. Without awareness, you might get frustrated: “Why can’t everyone just do it the same way?”

But with a mindset informed by personality frameworks, you can reframe the challenge: “This person thrives on structure, while this one prefers flexibility, and the other one wants vision.” You can then tailor your message accordingly: • To the detail-oriented volunteer: provide checklists and clear instructions.

• To the big-picture volunteer: emphasize the end goal and trust them to fill in the blanks.

• To the values-driven volunteer: stress the impact on families and the community.

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At its heart, this isn’t about labels. It’s about empathy and understanding. We all speak slightly different “languages.”

Some people are fluent in data, some in stories, some in encouragement, and some in challenges. Being able to “codeswitch,” depending on who you’re communicating with at any given moment, may help alleviate frustrations or miscommunication of not understanding what somebody truly needs from you.

As Grangers, we already know the importance of hospitality and fellowship.

Using personality tools helps us extend that spirit into communication. By meeting volunteers in a way that allows them to be heard in the way they prefer, we create an environment where everyone feels valued, understood, and motivated to contribute.

Practical Leaders

Steps

for

Grange

• Try it as a group activity. Have your Grange officers or committee members take a personality quiz and share results. Treat it as fun and reflective, not prescriptive.

• Use Strengths.

Put the “big picture” thinkers on brainstorming, the “detail” folks on logistics, and the “people-focused” volunteers

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on hospitality or outreach.

• Use it to spark conversation.

Instead of saying “you’re a Type 7,” say “I notice you bring great energy—how can we harness that in planning events?”

• Adapt communication. When sending announcements, provide both a quick summary and a detailed breakdown. That way, you serve both big-picture and detail-oriented readers.

• Keep it light. Remember, no test defines a person. These are tools for awareness, not boxes to trap people in.

• Remember the goal. The point isn’t the test—it’s creating a culture where volunteers feel heard, respected, and motivated.

Organizations thrive when volunteers and members feel heard and understood. Personality frameworks may not be perfect science, but they offer a practical way to acknowledge and celebrate our differences. When we commit to speaking each other’s language—whether through facts, stories, structure, or vision—we strengthen not just our projects, but the bonds of community that make the Grange strong.

Try It Yourself Do you want to experiment with personality frameworks?

Here are a few free versions: • MBTI (Myers-Briggs style): idrlabs.com/test.php • Enneagram: truity.com/test/ enneagram-personality-test • Leadership IQ Communication Styles: leadershipiq.com • 16 Personalities (modern MBTI-based): 16Personalities.com

E.3 (February) – “Let us treasure up the lessons we have learned, both by successes and failures, plan wisely and hopefully for the future, and strive to make our lives as harmoniously beautiful and bountiful as are the works of Nature’s God.” (Fourth Degree; President)

E.2 (January) – “You may encounter difficulties. Overcome them, remembering that difficulties are but opportunities to test our abilities.”

(Installation Ceremony; Installing Officer to President)

E.1 (December) – “Let us work hand in hand for the good of our neighbors. Let us remember that those with trials and tribulations need our help most of all.”

(Installation Ceremony; Installation Officer)

Winter

Membership and Leadership Development Director Amanda Brozana (301) 943-1090 abrozana@nationalgrange.org

NATIONAL GRANGE www.nationalgrange.org

If you created an activity for the reading, please send a copy to our National Membership and Leadership Development Director so we may offer it to other Granges for their use.

We'd love to share your story with other Granges through our Regional Conferences, social media, magazine and newsletter.

Have you tried using the Heirloom Program in your Grange? If so, email or send a letter to let us know how your discussion went, what you learned and if it has helped connect your membership to one another and the Grange.

Tell us how it worked

A Resource to Impart Knowledge of Essential Grange Values

To be used in 2026, 2031, etc.

Year E

Spring E.1. (March) - “Courage then, and patience, when gloom broods over your pathway.” (First Degree; Vice President) E.2. (April) – “Our Fraternity, being agriculturally based, family oriented and dedicated to the pure principles of equality under Constitutional Law, we appeal to all good citizens for mutual cooperation and assistance toward reform that we may remove from our midst the last vestige of inequity and corruption. We believe that harmony, equitable compromise and earnest cooperation are essential to future success.” (Grange Declaration of Purposes) E.3. (May) – “Let the modesty and usefulness of the humble grass be to you an object of imitation.” (First Degree; President)

Summer E.1 (June) - “Behold these inanimate kernels of corn! But the germ has life-- the future plant is there….

There is no object in which, to appearance, life and death border so closely together as in the grains of seed buried in the earth; but when life seems extinct a fuller and richer existence begins anew.”

(Second Degree; President)

E.2 (July) – “We recognize the necessity of experimentation to develop new and better methods of education, but we caution against the widespread adoption of these innovative and experimental methods until they have been proven effective.” (Grange Declaration of Purposes) E.3 (August) – “Cultivation of the mind … destroys error and keeps our thoughts quickened and ready to receive and apply new facts as they appear, thus promoting the growth of knowledge and wisdom.”

(Second Degree; President)

Autumn

E.1 (September) – “Gather only the good seed. Our associations in life are the fields in which we reap. Use judgment, and while you glean let your example be such that others may profit by it.” (Third Degree, President)

E.2 (October) - “We must reap for the mind as well as for the body, and from the abundance of our harvest, in good deeds and kind words, dispense charity.” (Third Degree; President)

E.3 (November) – My Brothers and Sisters, all honest labor is honorable.” (Third Degree; Vice President)

Cultivators from across the country named

By Amanda Brozana National Grange Membership & Leadership Development Director

During the 2025 National Grange Honors Night, held virtually on November 21, six Cultivators of the Year were named by the National Grange Membership and Leadership Development Department.

The award was established in 2021 to honor individuals and Granges that find unique and impactful ways to grow the Grange through innovative and positive messaging and programming that improve not just their local Grange, but whose impact goes far beyond.

“Each of these individuals and Granges has made a choice – to promote the Grange, to improve our work, to ensure it survives,” said Director Amanda Brozana.

California State Grange was the first named, with Brozana noting that in the past 5 years, about 50 Granges have been organized or reorganized throughout the state. That comes not just because interested parties seek out the organization, Brozana said, but also because of the State Grange’s work to create a field representative corps, leadership training, fellowship opportunities, and to embrace new ideas.

“Grange growth is possible when we refuse to believe otherwise,” Brozana said. “California State Grange has continued to grow, build, evolve, and set ever deeper its roots in communities it has served for 150 years.”

Two couples – Jody and Jodi Ann Cameron of Connecticut, and Joyce and Marty Billquist of Montana – were honored because of their great work to share positive messaging about the Grange within our membership and beyond. Both couples encouraged attendance at the 159th convention, and through their enthusiasm, brought more than a dozen members or friends each with them.

“While this may, on the surface, look self-serving, look deeper. What each of these couples did was connect people – members or not-yet members – to our organization, building greater bonds, giving these folks a better sense of what the Grange is and does, and sharing their love of the organization in a way that proved to be contagious,” Brozana said.

Building bonds of fellowship is a key concept of the new Grange Engage member platform, but the work to populate data into the system and provide guidance for its use garnered two more recipients with the honor as Cultivators.

Debbie Edwards of Delaware helped track member lists and format data about active Granges, their meeting times,

dates, and locations, and more.

“Our small staff must rely on volunteers to get done parts of these type of projects that benefit the entire organization,” Brozana said. “Volunteers who come to us with skills they have honed in their professional lives and the commitment to stick with a project are invaluable to every member present and future.”

Eugene Fletcher of Michigan, who is also a member in California, was also an instrumental part of the volunteer team that assisted with the launch of Grange Engage.

Fletcher created a video guiding users through the platform and has begun working on additional videos for users to take advantage of various features, as well as for administrators of Digital Halls and state member data.

“Eugene could be honored for many things, from his generosity each year for the Youth and Junior programs to his flow of creative ideas that can move the Grange forward,” Brozana said. “I was so pleased to be able to thank him in this way for his hours of work that makes this new platform more user-friendly.”

The final winner announced was Charlie Deach of Washington. Deach’s story of heroics to save the Columbia Grange hall from a fast-moving wildfire by cutting a firebreak as the flames whipped around him this summer has been widely shared. He was recognized at a small ceremony in August by National Grange President Christine Hamp who presented him with a proclamation.

Deach was also mentioned by Hamp in her internal address at the convention, where she said, “Charlie didn’t save a relic. He preserved a symbol, and in so doing showed us all what it means to love the Grange – with heart, with hands, with everything you have.

“His story should fill us with pride – and cause us to pause.

In a time when some walk away from their halls or from our Order entirely, others still run toward it,” Hamp said. “The question for each of us is not what Brother Charlie Deach has that others do not – but ‘what’ within us still burns bright enough to keep this Order alive, and how do we connect our members to “it.”

Each Cultivator will receive a metal plaque to hang in their home or office.

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California

California State Grange

Anderson-Mt. Lassen #418* Aromas #361* Bodega Bay #777* Buckeye #489* Dows Prairie #505* Freshwater #499* Gold Trail #452* Greenhorn #384* High Desert #593* Humboldt #501* Little Lake #670* Marshall #451* North Fork #763* Prunedale #368* Rainbow Valley #689* Redwood Valley #382* Riverdale Rural Community #868* Santa Ynez Valley #644* Sebastopol #306* Sierra Valley #466* Van Duzen River #517* Windsor #410*

Colorado

Marvel #479*

Connecticut

Eastern Connecticut Pomona #14* Ekonk Community Junior #101* Riverton #169*^ Vernon #52*

Illinois

Emerald Mound #1813*

Maine

Harraseeket #9* Mill Stream #574*

Massachusetts Ware #164*

Michigan

Studley #1174*

New Jersey

New Jersey State Grange State President in Action John Benedik Columbus #58* Granview #124* Meyersville #188* Moravian #187* Ringoes #12* Stanton #148*

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Stewartsville #121* Vincentown #67* Warren Pomona #10*

Ohio

Ohio State Grange

Amesville #798* Collinsville #2264* Mile Branch #933* Monroe-Dan Emmett #847* Morgan #829* Unity #1761* Williamsport #1815*

Oklahoma

Cherryvale #221*^

Pennsylvania

Oliver #1069* Stony Point #1694*

Washington

Washington State Grange State President in Action Tom Gwin Addy #603* Adna #417* Barberton #571* Baw Faw #34* Bee Hive #384* Brighton Park #163* Broadway #647* Buena #836* Burbank #630* Calispel #500* Camas Valley #842* Camden #687* Camp Morehead Junior #401* Catlin #199* Cedar Valley #306* Centerville #81* Chimacum #681* Chumstick #819* Clark County Pomona #1* Clarkston Heights #982* Clayton #456* Collins #893* Cowlitz Prairie #737* Crescent #1123* Davis Lake #501* Deer Lagoon #846* Dry Creek #646* East Hill #786* East Oakville #902*

East Wenatchee #1012* Elk Plain #782* Elma #26* Fargher Lake #853* Fargher Lake Junior #49* Fern Prairie #866* Fertile Valley #1094* Fords Prairie #33* Fort Colville #533* Fredonia #545* Freedom #1152* Fruitland #999* Fruitvale #348* Goldendale #49* Granville #857* Grays Harbor/Pacific Pomona #28* Grays River #124* Green Bluff #300* Greenwood Park #590* Happy Valley #322* Haynie #169* Hope #155* Humptulips #730* Humptulips Junior #376* Inland #780* Kennewick Valley #731* Kettle River #1120* Kettle River Junior #413* Klickitat County Pomona #5* Lewis County Pomona #3* Lincoln Creek #407* Logan Hill #1086* Long Beach #667* Lopez Island #1060* Lower Naches #296* Malo #679* Manor #1101* Mansford #720* Manson #796* Marion #276* Matlock #357* McIntosh #1001* McLane #383* McMillin #848* Menastash #1054* Meridian #365* Molson #1069* Moran Prairie #161* Moses Lake #1151* Mossyrock #355* Mountain Valley #79* Mountain View #98* Newaukum #198* North River #946*

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Oakview #311* Ohop #812* Olalla #1125* Olympic View #774* Orcas Island #966* Oroville #985* Pierce County Pomona #16* Prospect Point #1067* Prosperity #315* Quimper #720* Ralston #943* Rexville #815* Rome #226* Rose Valley #953* Roy #702* Sallal #955* Samish Valley #926* Sammamish Valley #286* San Juan Island #966* Selah Heights #608* Selkirk Valley #1153* Sequim Prairie #1108* Sharon #800* Silver Lake #105* Skamokawa #425* Skookumchuk #584* South Bay #250* South Camano #930* South Union #860* St. Andrews #832* Stevenson #121* Stillaguamish #1058* Stranger Creek #372* Swauk Teanaway #984* Ten Mill #399* Terrace Heights #586* The Valley #1048* Thurston County Pomona #8* Trout Lake #210* Tunk Valley #1019* Twisp Valley #482* Waller Road #1111* Washington #82* White Trail #1143* Yakima Valley Pomona #11*

West Virginia

Rainbow #527*^ *Diamond Grange in Action ^ Golden Grange in Action

Learn more about the Grange in Action program by visiting: https://www. nationalgrange.org/ grange-in-action

Honoring THE BUILDERS OF OUR

150 YEARS OF SERVICE • • • •

Bath #294 (NY) Cameron #355 (NY) Chester-Delaware Pomona #3 (PA) Sonoma County Pomona #1 (CA)

L egacy

100 YEARS OF SERVICE • Coyote #412 (CA) • Morgan Hill #408 (CA) • Windsor #410 (CA)

MEMBERSHIP ANNIVERSARIES 85 YEARS CONTINUOUS MEMBERSHIP

75 YEARS CONTINUOUS MEMBERSHIP

Washington • Lorriane Mills, Happy Valley #322

Montana • Ray Salomon, Smith Valley #130 • Frances Cooper, Winchester #74

80 YEARS CONTINUOUS MEMBERSHIP New Jersey • Harvey Beal, Elmer #29 New York • Leslie Rathbun, Westville #540 Ohio • Charlotte Wagner, Waterford #231

New York • Bernard Hartman, North Cameron #355 Pennsylvania • Esther Lehman, Valley #1360 • Delores Rishel, Penns Valley #158

50 YEARS CONTINUOUS MEMBERSHIP

Pennsylvania • Myrtle Horning, Seipstown #1657 • Grace Shollenberger, Fleetwood #1839 Washington • Jennell Branson, Moran Prairie #161 • Louise Branson, Moran Prairie #161

Idaho • Laraine Shafer, Portneuf #229 Iowa • Michael Denkman, Bloomington #2057 Maine • Betty Heald, Tranquility #344 • George Winslow, Tranquility #344 • Rosemary Winslow, Tranquility #344

Anniversaries listed on these pages are collected from certificates requested by local and State Granges.

If you want to ensure your members are recognized for their continued service in Good Day! Magazine, you can send in their anniversaries to Philip Vonada at pvonada@nationalgrange.org.

We also highly suggest that local Granges request anniversary certificates, Silver Star and Golden Sheaf recognitions, or commendation letters from the National Grange. If you have questions about how to do so, contact Loretta Washington at lwashington@nationalgrange.org or by phone at (202) 628-3507 x109.

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50 YEARS, CONT.

Massachusetts • Keth A. Bliss, Arvawan Oakton #220 • Shirley Goff, Arvawan Oakton #220 • Dawn Ashley Hartmann, Arvawan Oakton #220 • Esther Herrick, Williamstown #366 • Larence Herron, Williamstown #366 • Herbert Pollard, Ware #164 • Marion Waugh, Ware #164 Montana • Ed Marquardt, Smith Valley #130 •

Darlene Salomon, Smith Valley #130

New Jersey • Rebecca Heritage, Elmer #29 • David Newkirk, Elmer #29 • Spry Richmond, Elmer #29 New York • Peter Rathbun, Westville #540 • Dwight Widger, Dryden #1112 Ohio • Bill Dyer, Star #778 • Phyllis Reynolds, Waterford #231 • Trina Wisecarver, Ewing #2082 Oregon • Chuck Agee, Redmond #812

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Debra Hardiman, Seipstown #1657 Peggy Jamison, Valley #1360 Gail Mangold, Seipstown #1657 Michael Martin, Valley #1360 Marianne Matthews, Valley #1360 Jerilynn Millvan, Valley #1360 C. Jean Minnich, Seipstown #1657 Anna May Nauss, Valley #1360 Mary Pelton, Valley #1360 Donna Pursel, Valley #1360 Dale Rossman, Penns Valley #158 Eileen Schuler, Fleetwood #1839 David Scott, Valley #1360 Patricia Scott, Valley #1360 Barbara Sheaffer, Perry Valley #1804 Donna Snyder, Fleetwood #1839 Jane Thoman, Valley #1360 Ronald Traver, Valley #1360 Ann Wertman, Seipstown #1657 Brian Wetzel, Seipstown #1657 Catherine Wise, Valley #1360 Mary Wise, Valley #1360 Sharon Wise, Valley #1360

Washington • Steven Ancich, Olympic View #774 • Carolyn Anderson, Mossrock #55 • Louise Balukoff, Mt. Valley #79 • Elizabeth Boyer, Olympic View #774 • Theresa Naverre, Olympic View #774 • Lynn O’Conner, Olympic View #774 • Joan A. Reed, Happy Valley #322 • Jackie Reeve, The Agate #275 • John Rinta, Mt. Valley #79 • Kathleen Rinta, Mt. Valley #79 • Mary Lee Rozelle, Camden #687 • Lisa Wendt, South Union #860

Pennsylvania • Timothy Albright, Perry Valley #1804 • Kenneth Bolton, Perry Valley #1804 • Margaret Bolton, Perry Valley #1804 • Lou Ann Boose, Valley #1360 • Stephen Boyce, Valley #1360 • Carol Corman, Penns Valley #158 • Elizabeth Downey, Eagle #1 • Donna Dries, Fleetwood #1839 • Richard Gallimore, Valley #1360 • Wanda Gallimore, Valley #1360

Welcome new Seventh Degree Members!

Joyce Bastien, Exeter #12 (RI) Diane Belford, Bridgewater #153 (CA) Sue Brennan, Big Knob #2008 (PA) Maryanne Campbell, Butternut Valley #1533 (NY) Patrick Colglazier, Little Mountain #601 (NC) Sharon Fidder, Flora #1762 (IL) Sue Gabel, Oliver #1069 (PA) Kedric Gegare, Milton #670 (WI) Valerie Hancock, Enterprise #1929 (IL) Robert Hankins, Beach Community #958 (VA) Barbara Hill, Butternut Valley #1533 (NY)

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Kathy Hogan, Marvel #479 (CO) Tony Jones, Ferguson #809 (NC) Carol Lackey, Enterprise #25 (CO) Michael Lackey, Enterprise #25 (CO) Karen Lazzaro, Riverton #169 (CT) Michael Lazzaro, Riverton #169 (CT) Tracy Metzker, Redland #796 (OR) Clarene Ricarte, Stillaguamish #1058 (WA) Stephen Ricarte, Stillaguamish #1058 (WA) DoeAnna Riesinger, Avon #125 (MT)

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Welcome New Members TO THE Grange Family California

Alpine #665 Jose Aguilar Susan Aguilar Alejandro Arvizo Jessica Arvizo Johana Arvizo Luisa Arvizo Salvador Arvizo Sergio Arvizo Janet Flores Jeffrey Hillinger Stacy Holzer Jason Jeters Jennifer Jeters Kelly Jeters Mary Jeters Cynthia Leonard Randal M. Lewis Linda M. Lewis Melissa Lopez Laura Monge Ana Quilez Thomas Joseph Schamber Victoria Ventura And 3 Junior members Cloverdale #456 Cherna Alliston Stephen Bearden Kirk Robert Bilbro Laurie Ann Bilbro Ryan Kirk Bilbro Mary Ann Brigham Shelli Byers Julie Carter William Carter Linda Sue Clapp Robert Cox Cathy Demattei Susan Demattei June Gibson Cynthia Grant Jilloni Hopkins Laurie Kneeland Nicole Lane Eugene Lile Susan Lile Martha MacLean Andres Martin Marquez Lydia Marie Morris Eric Neel Michael Nixon

Rosemary Opatz Geoffrey Peters Sally Pringle Teri Wells Jace Wheeler Jenessa Wheeler Wanda Winkler Michele Penirian Winterbottom

Colorado

Florissant #420 Audrey Alamayda Maria Zehrung Sunflower #162 Karin Bates FarmBox Foods* Sharon McFarlane William McFarlane Kayla Shew

Delaware

Broad Creek #59 Alex Seuberth Capital #18 Jessica Butler Barbara Ridgely Smyrna #21 Barbara Ridgely

Idaho

Mica Flats #436 Hailey Grob Jason Grob Virginia Grob Jerry Hanson* Sharon Hanson* Gloria Molnar* Rand Molnar* Vaughn Paragamian Rebert Seddon* Maria Stafford* Nampa Valley #131 Bonny DuPuis Michelle Glaze Ken Pollard Laurie Wittges

Pleasant Ridge #135 Bonnie Hamlet

Illinois

County Line Junior #27 14 Junior members

Iowa

Cedar River #2232 Emma Edelen Gene Edelen Maria Edelen Rachel Edelen Wendy Freeman Monica Leier Mycala MacTaggart Eileen Morrison Christopher Oberembt Joshua Oberembt Melissa Oberembt Matt Oliphant Tonya Schnor And 1 Junior member

Michigan

Pittsfield Union #882 Bonnie Frederick Jim Frederick Joseph Kraut Maya Noel

Welcome New Granges!

The following Granges were newly-chartered or reorganized since our last issue.

Alpine #665 (CA)

Cedar River #2232 (IA) Cloverdale #456 (CA)

County Line Junior #27 (IL) McKendree #722 (PA) Colonel Harper #1508 Thomas Van Sickell Donna Van Sickell Copake #935 Terry Lerner Frey Dan Haas Lizanne Hart Matthew Kirsch Daniella Landau Wendy Lidell Eillene Liestner Craig Mende Sonia Pilcer Barry Winiker

West Oshtemo #1630 Glen Guarisco

Eureka #46 Raymond Freyn Aria Fuchs

New York

Hamptonburgh #950 Mary Climes Andrea Nilon

Ausable Valley #973 Jay Ward Theresa Winston Bethlehem #137 Laurie Schiable Barbara Viviano Champion #18 Austin Laub Hailey MacCue 4 River Valleys Historical Society*

Kirkland #684 Kathryn Handschuh Perthshire #1445 Richard Hornick Craig J. Jenkins Pierstown #793 Pat Kennedy Putnam Valley #841 Tom Deacon Lilly Gair * Denotes Associate Member

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NEW MEMBERS (CONT’D)

Steve Halliday Arielle Honovich Adrienne Marino Jason McDermott Christine Nastasi Fiorella Nunez Cassandra Roth Kathy Stein Crystal Stowell Brett Yarris Stanford #808 Elliot Hurley Walton #1454 Michael Condon Adrianna Ingle Albert Mason, Jr. Sabastian Thompson

North Carolina North Carolina State Grange* Carolina Arthur Susan Brown John Burt Bruce Butler Keith Butler Eileen Coite William Johnson Paul Jones II Jessica Kiser Matthew Knight William McLamb Barbara Murray Dan Murray Ninevah Murray William Murray Craig Myers Shannon Naylor Michelle Perry Reginald Strickland Jay Sullivan William Upchurch Cameron Wilks

Brogden #967 Gray Outlaw Marshall Outlaw

Schley #710 Dan Cato Jo Cato Mike Cato Jayne Stitzel

Capitol #989 Pam Cloud

St. John’s #729 Codey Elwood Andrew Moorehead

Ferguson #809 Tammy Ellington Pam Gibson

Summerfield #661 Jane Hutson

Grantham #968 Tristan Beard Todd Grantham Daniel Hood Grover Hood Teresa Hood Larry Pierce Ryan Roberson

Oregon

Abernethy #346 Julie Stiers Barlow Gate #157 Elena Andersen Jeff Audette Kevin Mickelsen Ginny Sampson

JoCo #1304 Waylon Barefoot David Barnes Brandon Batten Chad Holloman Dan Kornegay Tina Kornegay Matt Johnson Kim Lequire Jeremy Rhodes Suzanne Rhodes Robin Tutor John Weaver Charles Wiggs

Buell #638 Steve Buchholz Lisa Haggblom Jeremy Hibdon Kathy Higgins Emma Kline Kelly Koloff Joan Taylor Laura Vivas Camas Valley #521 Norma Gregg Timothy Payne Roxanne Sabin

Little Mountain #601 Brandon Black Cherese Black Israel Garcia Oliver Garcia And 2 Junior members

Chetco #765 Baveeta Bailey Vee Kraft

Matrimony #771 Leesa Baker

Clarkes #261 Robin Kohnert

Old Richmond #675 Ann Bliss

Coburg West Point #535 Ed Horst Loretta Horst

Columbia #267 Laura Adams Julie Burns Christensen John Christensen Kari Haygood Ameli Tyler Colleen Tyler Joshua Tyler Olly Tyler Creswell #496 Dylan Beckstead Kayla Johnson Ernest Osburn Kimberly Reling Robert Reiling Rebecca Salgado Makaylah Schubring Carla Skeel Trev Spaulding Sarah Strawn Deer Creek #371 Jaxon Yost Dixie Mountain #860 Peggy Dudley Eagle Creek #297 Teresa Sather Eagle Point #664 Peggy Leeper Fernwood #770 Heather Fogarty George Kaufman Tina Silver Rebecca Wallis Fort Union #953 Tammy Baremore Debra O’Rourke Morianne Sipe Stephanie Smith Fruitdale #379 Nena Heitz Goldson #868 Deb Paxinos

HAS YOUR GRANGE RECENTLY WELCOMED A NEW MEMBER? Make sure they are recognized!

Most names listed are submitted by State Grange leaders, but anyone may submit the names of new members so they can be recognized in Good Day! by emailing Philip Vonada at pvonada@nationalgrange.org. ®

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NEXT ISSUE DEADLINE: FEBRUARY 28, 2026

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NEW MEMBERS (CONT’D)

Hurricane Creek #608 John (Bill) Harris Irving #377 Joel Dougall Judi Greig Kellogg #811 Darlene Swearingen Lacomb #907 Charlotte Aaron Little Deschutes #939 Louise Carriger Michael Carriger Linda Casey Roger Conrad Doris Davis Rick Davis Yvone Fuqua Cynthia Furst Denise Gardiner Sarah Gould Mary Raville Audrey Iraheta Tamara Neil Steven Oakeson Ruth Paynter Michael Silence Patricia Slavin Jolene Sofich Rocky Sofich Chris Steiner Angila Trolinder Kathee Young Lorane #54 Anthony Archer Heather Archer Tony Archer Annie Pasky Marys River #685 Kalim Anders Katelyn Kirk Vicki Nunnemaker Mosier #234 Ian McGimsey Netel #410 Debra Heesch Pacific #413 Kathleen Teeple Pleasant Grove #475 Stephanie Boudreau Sheila Brown Glen Gordeon John Hatton

Steven Buster Huntington Cathy Lease Scott Lease Bob Messinger Kathy Oliver Steve Oliver Diane Partridge Teresa Smith-Dixon Laura Zambrano Rockford #501 Cindy Allen Samantha Allen Daniel Ball Lori Golze Tom Kaser Pat Rhiannon-Griffith Richard Spelker Ashley Tackett Row River #835 Nancy Ludwig

Santa Clara #746 Lillia Adams Nathaniel Adams Carissa Callihan Caroline Hamar Audrey Harris And 1 Junior member

Siletz Valley #558 Paul Jones Silverton #748 Jason Freilinger Darrel Smith Sheryl Williams Skyline #894 Mark Clark Sumathi Devarajan Betty Henderson Tim Henderson Jenny Hunt Ken Johnson Brad Needham Linda Needham Lory Osterhuber Dave Roy Michelle Roy Claudio Valenzuela

South Fork #605 Jessica Bass Dawn Highberger Kathy Hunter Sara Krakaur Jackson Riepe Taylor Riepe Annie Robinson Rocking M Cattle Co.* Jeanette Schill Shelley Straughn Kasiah Sword Spencer Creek #855 Mary Hurley Sunnydale #877 Devon Trigg And 4 Junior members The Sandy #392 Beverly Gray Sandy Light

Salmon River #516 Lawrence Durette Tristian Lynn Parett Douglas Wilcox

Scholls #338 Emily Dent Cate Small

Ronda Valenzuela And 2 Junior members

Tigard #148 Peggylee Alcocer Carlos Alcocer-Diaz Vernonia #305 Phyllis Hense Landon Peyton April Shelnut Michael Shelnut And 1 Junior member Walterville #417 Ken Engelman Laramie Evans Warren #536 Katie Luttrell-Marsh And 2 Junior members White Clover #784 Teresa Haylett Cyn Marti Gail Maxwell Jennifer Williamson Willamette #52 Tim Aquino Ari Knight Johnny Mathison Julie Mathison Williams #399 Sylvain Brown Sierra Gjerde Shannon Rodine

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Winona #271 Jennifer Bennett Ocavio Gonzaloz Wolf Creek #596 Emily Hart Sherry Hart Brian Ramsey Woodburn #79 Robert Lofgren

Pennsylvania Bald Eagle #151 Allison Davidson Caleb Davidson Big Knob #2008 Melissa Causer Ava Cooper Dave Kaufman Jessica Kinlock Matt Kinlock Buckhorn #1119 Darren Wilson Patti Wilson Edinboro #947 Donald Leach Pamela Zulovich Forkston #1153 Joyce Lunjer Mary Valentine Girard #788 Greg Dahlstrand Carrie Lunsford Larry Moyer Harveys-Aleppo #1444 Debbie Venne Hickory #1285 Gilbert Barker Kathy Guthrie Sherry Volosky Howard #297 Jack Lose Angie Lucas Rhonda Ternent Kimmerlings #1529 Kait Lerch Scott Lerch And 1 Junior member Kutztown #1836 Jodi Day Povenski

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NEW MEMBERS (CONT’D)

Lawrence County Junior #547 2 Junior members Liberty #1780 Charles Reed Natalie Rodgers Long Branch Community #2072 Theresa Cavallaro Cecelia Carl Phillips Patrick Carl II Carrie Luncinski Christine Mason John Phillips Kaitlyn Sirochman McKendree #722 Isabella R. Bartalotta Beverly M. Fink Travis J. Fink Susan C. Garing Robert J. Grajewski Autumn Rose Hacker Kevin M. Hacker Gary M. Hontz Margaret Kyttle Graice Paige Michael Holly Michael Kaleb A. Michael Kurt Allan Michael Mason J. Michael W. Allan Michael Penelope J. Noss Roger C. Noss Carl J. Shaw Max A. Steward Doug D. Yarnell Nerissa Yarnell Andrew J. Zagata And 2 Junior members Oliver #1069 Lindsie Griffin Sophia Griffin Chloe Smith Dereick Smith Ganon Smith Rhonda Smith Thomas Witmyer Ontelaunee #1617 Kaitlyn Kier Ann Marie Loose Cailyn Smith Perry Valley #1804 Michael Anderson Vicki Anderson Casey Beachel Denise Boaz

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Alison Bratton Jami Brofee Owen Brofee Wanda Brookhart Amy Fleisher Jessica Fleisher Rylee Fuller Michael Glenn Wyatt Haas Allison Hoff Elizabeth Hoover Nathan Moyer Chanin Rotz-Mountz Angela Schlegel Marsha Gray Snyder Brenda Watson

Georgia Tull Christine Voos Columbia #87 Brian Hinde Jitka Frys Paul Frys Joan Sauls Steven Sauls Christian Stein John Tiffany Cowlitz Prairie #737 Darlene Osborne Edgewood #266 Leonardo Hernandez Maria Hernandez

Valley #1360 Darlene M. Resh

Elk Plain #782 Ashlyn Cerar

Virginville #1832 Justin Dusko James Kramer Roberta Kramer Jacob Schroeder

Elma #26 D. Christine Johnston Fargher Lake #853 Norah Austen Lisa Johnson Keith Johnson Alex Kadow Kara Kadow Jacob Kelley Karelynn Kelley Jacob Komathy Annie Marsolek Jason Poe Mallika Poe Karolina Scott Penelope Siemaster And 7 Junior members

Washington Black Lake #861 Andrea Cotey

Brighton Park #163 Christopher Potter Clara Potter Crystal Potter Shawn Potter Camas Valley #842 Elizabeth George Carla (Trina) Thompson Camden #687 Linda Pangerl Mike Pangerl Cedar #534 Josph Dumovic Linda Harer Katherine Quinn-Dumovic Cedar Valley #306 Steve Himel Chumstick #819 Vicki Barber Andrea Dodson Norman Dorpat Dan Olsen Lester Stoltz Exxene Tull

Forest #153 Debbie Anderson Jo Coleman Carrie Emery Robin Jaques Kelly Scott Fort Colville #533 Rebecca Aubert Fruitvale #348 Mary Morehead Glenwood #94 Joleen Maxwell Jay McLaughlin Goldendale #49 Brian Genson Patty Genson

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Granville #857 Julie Haven Anahin Hernandez Eric Stewart Grays River #124 Cindy Langson Tony Zhao Greenwood Park #590 Aaron Hall Aaron Hall, Jr. Charlene Hall Jamie Hall Linda Hall Cindy Horne Michael Horne Del Karnes Cooper Schwartz Gracie Schwartz Majorie Stemmelin And 1 Junior member Hope #155 Rob Jenkins Lincoln Creek #407 Natalie Fenwick Teresa Fenwick Thomas Fenwick Ken Reiger Long Beach #667 Barbara Bate Patty Hunt Marion #276 Kelly Canyok Josh Condon Julianna Hind Doris Maris Melissa Nachtsheim Matlock #357 Ann Chapell McLane #383 Tammy Eltrich Larry LeMaster Janet McLane Heather Senn John Senn Menastash #1054 Richard Hink Aleece Martin Brynlee Martin And 1 Junior member Mountain View #98 Jenny Brady

NEW MEMBERS (CONT’D)

Newaukum #198 Jordan M. Klumper Danika Rozhanika North River #946 Karla Masha Tom Marsh Gerald Mertl Oakview #11 Temple Allen Clint Baumel Shannon Baumel Orcas Island #964 KayAnna Boykin-Lopez Rafael Lopez Oroville #985 Yuri Morales Cindy Nelson Pleasant Hill #101 Reflections Unlimited, LLC Prosperity #315 Rebekah Keiser Jake Kulpec Teri Miller Roswitha Morrison Annette Pilaris Cheryl Pilaris Teri Ramsauer Quimper #720 Kristen Lawson Ralston #943 Jordanne Beck Lois Gust Randy Gust Rexville #815 Gale Fiege Rome #226 James Flores Erin Peterson Susan Richardson Andrea Rowe Julie Shootkovich Elizabeth Volker Larry Volker Rose Valley #953 Laurie Ireton Gail Todd San Juan Island #966 Todd Anderson Daniel Clingaman Janet Clingaman Brian Halaburka

Heidi Lopez Liz Makofsky Adam Martin Rebecca Martin Cynthia McVeigh Melissa Pinnow Prima Bookkeeping Phoenix Awan Rising Melissa Rohde Write Brain Arts Selah Heights #608 Anita Aliment Brandy Bailey Kattie Blanchard Joe Briscoe Wendy Vance Sequim Prairie #1108 Babara Tribert Karrie Vadala Sharon #800 Angela Arreola Angi Aubuchon Matt Aubuchon Shelly Aubuchon Richard Bailey Randi Balderston Mark Brasel Carol A. Briggs Robert W. Briggs Carlie Dassow Ericka Jackson Linda Johnson Esther McBride Stacy Munson Tevin M. Shepherd Tiea Vaughn Roberta von Reichbauer William von Reichbauer Silver Lake #105 Cindy Ernst Tammy Smith Skamokawa #425 Michael Howell Skookumchuck #584 Jody Becker Clint Dias Sue Dias John Grenier Greg Maxfield Breanna Short Cassie Tafoya

South Bay #250 Ana Andrade Rachel Atchison Victoria Barnes Bert Childers Anna Coleman Christina Davis Pamela Farr Lori Goddard Sherry Gritton Kim Gylys Jake Harn Michelle Harriage Susan Hettinger Samuel Hill Heather Howerton Kasey Howerton JJ Jandley Jennifer Johnson Mica Lusk Connie Michener Kelly Owings Jordan Pelton Melissa Presley Matt Reese Don Sorenson Kathy Sorenson Cohen Stiebrs Hayden Stiebrs Sara Stiebrs Yany Stiebrs Priscilla Terry Tom Terry Cory Thompson Linda Winders Spring Hill #909 Tami Harper Terry Harper Jerri Preedy Stevenson #121 Katy Klett Steve Klett Lottie Patten Madeleine Wolfe And 2 Junior members Stillaguamish #1058 Marietta Pfrimmer Sunnyside #129 Ryane Oline

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Swauk Teanaway #984 Caroline Armstrong Guy Curtis Shelley Emmons Lacey Hein Julie Jobin Laurie Lind Mike Lind Triway #1093 Holly Dietrich Waller Road #1111 Theresa Gratzer Jody Marzano Theresa McKinley Whelan Ewartsville #114 Anna Boyd Brenda Brown Jacob Brown Jason Childers Debbie Druffel Roy Druffel Shaneese Dunigan Brandy Finch Cody Finch Mason Finch Owen Fitzgerald Ginger Gallagher Linda Gallagher Sammy Gallagher Desiree Graysone Jolly Graystone Kylie Hancock Samantha Laurenslater John Lautenslager Scott Lyle Hillicity Moore Phillip Moore, Sr. Daesha Nelson David Nelson, Sr. Desiree Nelson Keelyn Nelson Mariah Nelson Shaena Nelson Rae Olsson Jeff Prieve Joe Rope Mogan Sherwood Blake Turman Lenore Turman Woodland #178 Melissa Dougherty Jason Griffith Adyn Steenbarger

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MEMORIAL NOTICES PATRICIA M. “PATTY” COTRELL

Past First Lady, Rhode Island State Grange (1986-1990) Patricia M. “Patty” Cottrell, 73, of West Kingstown, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 9th, surrounded by her loving family. Born in Warwick, Rhode Island, she was the daughter of the late Edwin and Edith (Harrop) Fish. She was the devoted wife of the late John J. Cottrell III, with whom she shared 46 wonderful years of marriage.

A proud member of the Richmond Grange, Washington County Pomona Grange, and Rhode Island State Grange for over 50 years, Patricia was deeply devoted to her community and cherished the friendships she made through her many years of service. Her love for the Washington County Fair was equally strong—she was involved for more than 30 years and could often be found there for most of the summer, sharing laughter, stories, and her love of tradition with everyone around her.

Patty was a Past First Lady of the Rhode Island State Grange, past delegate to the National Grange, past member of the Rhode Island State Grange Executive Committee, and current member of the Rhode Island State Grange Foundation and Special Deputy to the State Grange President.

Those who knew Patty will remember her love of life, her infectious laugh, and a smile that could light up any room. She had an enduring love for travel and adventure, often setting out on journeys near and far with friends and family. Whether exploring new destinations or enjoying simple moments close to home, she embraced every experience with curiosity, laughter, and warmth.

She is survived by her daughter, Roxanne Nelson;

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her brother, Pete Fish (Paula); and her sister, Peggy Fish.

She also leaves behind several nieces and nephews, and many dear friends and extended family who lovingly knew her as “Grandma Patty.”

Patty will be remembered for her kindness, her spirit, and her ability to make everyone she met feel like family. Her legacy of love, laughter, and community will continue to live on through those who knew her best.

A graveside service took place on Saturday, October 18th at 10:00 a.m. at New Fernwood Cemetery, West Kingston, RI, followed by a celebration of her life at the Richmond Grange.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to the Washington County Fair, 749 Waites Corner Rd, West Kingston, RI 02892.

-----Cards & Condolences may be sent to: Roxanne Nelson 749 Waites Corner Road West Kingston, RI. 02892

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KEEPING AMERICA’S HEARTLAND CONNECTED “Louisiana communities rely on reliable, highspeed broadband to grow and thrive. Across our 90-year history, the REV team remains committed to delivering next-generation connectivity that will continue to empower families, businesses, and entire communities.”

– JOSH DESCANT, CEO, REV

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egendary high-speed fiber networks aren’t built overnight. What began as a single phone line in 1935 has grown into more than 400 local employees, 5,000 miles of fiber, connecting 70,000 customers across South Louisiana—from Grand Isle’s gulf shores to the capital city of Baton Rouge.

At REV, progress never pauses. The REV team knows that exceptional connectivity takes constant innovation, not nostalgia. Every day, REV expands its fiber networks, enhances service, and adds value for the communities

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they serve—because connection means more than speed; it’s about possibility.

REV isn’t just an internet company. They’re in the business of what’s next—building a faster, more resilient internet, linking more devices, and transforming the way Louisianans live, work, and connect with the world. Learn more at letsrev.com.

Visit USTelecom.org

GRANGE ADVOCACY ADVERTORIAL

Juniors have an ocean adventure, receive awards

By Makayla Piers National Grange Junior Advisory Team

This year, we tried something completely new: hosting the Junior Grange activities during National Session aboard a cruise ship to the ABC Islands. None of us knew exactly how it would go, but the moment we boarded, it became clear that this environment suited our Juniors perfectly. With families everywhere, activities buzzing around us, and a relaxed, vacation-like rhythm, the ship created a setting where the kids settled in immediately. Ready to explore, participate, and represent the Junior Grange in ways that felt natural and effortless.

Our mornings were spent in workshops, which quickly became a favorite part of each day. Laci Lies, National Junior Grange Ambassador, and each Ambassador candidate created and taught their own sessions, giving the entire week a “kids teaching kids” energy. We explored agriculture in the ABC Islands, ocean farming, sustainability, and environmental topics through handson activities. Water quality testing was an instant hit.

Juniors used real test strips and were fascinated to

Junior Ambassador candidates Raegan Hartsell (NC - top) and Scarlette Ellwanger (IL - bottom) present workshops to Junior Grangers and other attendees during the National Grange Convention.

Photos by Scott Nicholson

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Laci Liles, 2024-2025 National Junior Grange Ambassador, makes a presentation about ocean farming to Junior Grangers and their families during the National Grange Convention.

Photo by Scott Nicholson

see the results change. They compared colors, made predictions, and jumped right into conversations about why water quality matters, whether you’re farming on land, raising fish in the ocean, or simply caring for your hometown community.

Of course, we added in fun along the way. Bingo quickly became loud and chaotic in the best way possible, and “questions for prizes” had Juniors practically leaping out of their seats to answer correctly. Even kids who usually hang back suddenly found themselves raising their hands. The Ambassador candidates grew so much through this process. Leading younger kids, explaining ideas in their own words, and discovering how capable they truly are.

Beyond the workshops, something even more powerful happened. The Juniors naturally became representatives for the Grange. Without any prompting, they talked to families around the ship about what we were doing. They shared their excitement, explained their activities, and invited new friends to join us. They proudly talked about what the Junior Grange meant to them. It wasn’t a recruitment strategy…it was genuine enthusiasm.

And the best part? It worked. One cruise family was so intrigued that they joined a workshop, had a wonderful time, and later connected with a leader in their home state. They’re now considering membership! Being on the ship made this type of outreach possible - families were all around us, and the Juniors embraced it.

Afternoons were for family time. Juniors, families, and friends played putt-putt (and tried to rescue golf balls determined to leap into the ocean), ping pong games, swam, relaxed, and explored every corner of the ship.

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Ages 5–8: Tobias Darling (NY) Ages 9–11: Paige Darling (NY)

Placemat Contest Winners:

Bright, fun, and full of personality, this contest brought out the artistic side of our Juniors in the sweetest way.

Ages 5–8: Paige Darling (NY) Ages 9–11: Tobias Darling (NY)

Wreath Contest:

Junior Fun can also be challenging!

Junior Granger Cohen Piers (RI) tackled his fear of heights on the high ropes course.

Photo by Scott Nicholson

The balance between structured learning and carefree fun created a rhythm that was perfect for the Juniors. Families appreciated being able to join in, and the Juniors were excited to show their parents what they were working on.

As the week wrapped up and we returned to land, we gathered to celebrate achievements earned through dedication and service throughout the entire year.

Creative Art winners:

The Creative Art contest didn’t disappoint. Our Juniors filled their pages with bold colors, big ideas, and tons of heart.

Ages 5–8: 1st – Hadley Miller (PA), 2nd – Cyrus Reyburn (PA), 3rd – Huntley Miller (PA) Ages 9–11: 1st – Scarlet Gotauco (RI), 2nd – Camden Miller (WA), 3rd – JB Roth (WA) Ages 12–14: 1st – Lily Piers (RI), 2nd – Paige K (WA), 3rd – Elijah Berg (WA)

Creative Writing Winners:

These entries were fun, thoughtful, and beautifully written. Our Juniors truly put their hearts into their words.

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Our wreath entry showed a wonderful mix of creativity and craftsmanship and was beautifully made.

1st – Carly Hanel (NY)

Community Service Award:

Cohen Piers of Rhode Island demonstrated exceptional dedication by raising nearly $4,000 for wildlife conservation.

His commitment to service extended further when he chose to donate $400 of his own funds to support Texas flood victims, exemplifying the compassion and integrity that define the Junior Grange mission.

Cape of Honor Recipients:

Makani Delovio, Bryce Vecoli, and Keanu Delovio (all from Connecticut) were honored for completing 10– 50 hours of meaningful service.

These Juniors stepped up again and again throughout the year, helping others with consistency, compassion, and a genuine desire to make a difference. Their efforts remind us that leadership isn’t about age, it’s about heart.

Junior Granger of the Year:

out. Scarlett’s impact was deeply felt and her accomplishments this year speak volumes about the leader she is becoming.

National Junior Ambassador

Grange

The National Grange Honors Night concluded with the announcement of our 2025-2026 National Junior Grange Ambassador: Raegan Hartsell from North Carolina.

Throughout the cruise, Raegan stood out for her quiet strength, kindness, and her instinct to lift others up. She supported younger Juniors, encouraged her peers, and carried herself with the warmth and integrity we hope to see in every Ambassador. We are thrilled to have her representing the Junior Grange this year.

The cruise gave our Juniors the chance to stretch, lead, and discover just how capable they are. They stepped forward with confidence, welcomed others into the program, and reminded us why the Junior Grange remains such a powerful place for young leaders to grow.

2026 is coming and our Juniors are more than ready for it.

Scarlette Ellwanger (IL) completed more than 230 hours of community service. An extraordinary achievement for anyone, let alone an 11-yearold! Her steady dedication, her Raegan Hartsell (NC) was selected to willingness to show up wherever serve as the 2025-2026 National Junior help was needed, and her sincere Grange Ambassador. care for others made her stand Photo provided

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Youth & Young Adults learn, explore at sea

By Jennie Gentry National Grange Youth Advisory Team

Youth and young adults who attended this year’s National Grange Convention on the Carnival Horizon made up an excellent group of young leaders from across the country. Serving in a wide variety of leadership roles such as Ambassadors and National Youth Officers, the group engaged in morning workshops and afternoon teambuilding activities to hone leadership skills.

This year gave youth the opportunity to participate in a Leadership Academy at Sea. Written and led by Jennie Gentry, Jennifer Danko, and Samantha Hanson, the academy held 4 sessions during each of the days the cruise ship was at sea. Each session offered different topics and lessons with a focus on leadership training and self-growth.

Participants also received a workbook that followed each session as they learned important subjects including leadership values, emotional intelligence, using empathy as a leader, goal setting and effective communication.

Each session also brought on group discussion, selfreflection, and whole group hands-on activities.

Youth Fun: After the Leadership Academy on sea days, the youth and young adults took advantage of what the cruise offered - like an intense round of mini golf on the top deck.

Photo by Scott Nicholson

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The National Grange Youth Officer Team included youth and young adults from Iowa, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Washington, and Wisconsin.

Photo by Philip Vonada

This interactive academy was not only important to building confidence as leaders but also gave youth attendees a chance to grow personal relationships with each other. Each participant also received a certificate of completion that can be used as a resume builder.

When expressing how much she enjoyed this new leadership academy, Ashlan Smith, National Grange Young Adult Ambassador from PA, stated, “I really enjoyed the entire academy. The self-reflection helped me to focus more on my leadership goals for the future while the group discussion helped me discover more values that I want to practice in my own life. I loved the interaction. It was very well organized, and I wish more youth could experience something like this through the Grange.”

Outside of the academy, youth and young adults spent each afternoon together engaging in activities offered by the cruise line to build connections and to practice team building. One of the biggest highlights was the day they completed the cruise line’s ropes course, wearing harnesses to complete obstacles suspended in the air on a windy ship deck. One youth completely froze upon climbing the first challenge due to a fear of heights.

However, youth from different states rallied to support him as they guided him through the entire course without leaving his side. The look of achievement on his face when he completed the course was pure joy with a sense of self-confidence and gratitude for his friends.

But the real treat was watching these young leaders

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guide and support each other, acting as cheerleaders, never criticizing. It was beautiful to watch.

On Saturday morning at the end of the cruise, youth stepped into their national offices and opened the National Grange Session. Instead of opening with a drill, they entered the room while being introduced in a fun way with high fives and enthusiastic greetings, a great way to change things up from the normal opening.

Officers were led by President Taylor Rogers, NC, and they all did a great job of continuing the tradition of opening session for the convention.

Awards presented

After the convention, several big award announcements were made during the National Grange Honors Night. Nathan Lesh, PA, received the National Grange Community Service Award while Nettie Hartley, RI, received the National Grange Junior Mentor Award, two stand-out honors in the program. Pennsylvania and North Carolina received the Distinguished State Youth Program Award for their work with youth in their states.

Juliana Piers won the Reels Contest for social media.

In the biggest announcement of our program, three new young leaders were named to the 2026 National Grange Ambassador Team. The new team includes youth Caroline Barber, NC, and Sadie Johnson, PA, and young adult Alexandria “Jomni” Tarbell of NY. We are excited to see these ladies in action as they lead in 2026.

However, we must also thank the amazing 2025 team for their hard work and leadership this year: Taylor

Sadie Johnson (PA - left) and Caroline Barber (NC - right) were named the 2025-2026 National Grange Youth Ambassadors, and Jomni Tarbell (NY - center) was named the 2025-2026 National Grange Young Adult Ambassador.

Photo by Jennie Gentry

Rogers, NC, and Ashlan and Shae Smith, PA. All three have led well and put their whole hearts into the program.

Shae Smith even wrapped up our Leadership Academy with a team-bonding exercise that helped our amazing group of youth connect in a more meaningful way before departing the cruise. We give our utmost thanks to these three wonderful leaders.

The convention may have looked a little different this year, but the bonds created by our youth felt stronger, and their engagement in the Leadership Academy was much more meaningful because they walked away with something extremely important: more confidence and self-growth as leaders.

Youth and Young Adults worked together on various projects and breakout sessions during the Leadership Academy at Sea. This program was designed to build interand intrapersonal relationships, improve confidence, and teach various aspects of what it means to be a leader.

Photo by Scott Nicholson

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Chea’s Shelf of Recent Rural Reads

By Chea Parton Founder, Literacy in Place and Reading Rural YAL

In loving memory of Diana Lynn Parton Sometimes life is stranger than fiction and you find yourself reading books that you didn’t realize you’d need. Recently, and unexpectedly, my Aunt Diane, who we have always lovingly called Aunt De-Di, passed away.

I hadn’t realized that my most recent rural reads all featured aunts who played important roles in the main characters’ lives. Like them, Aunt De-Di was an important staple and caregiver in my life, and it got me thinking about the roles and depictions of aunts in rural families.

And so, I wanted to write this piece in honor of my Aunt De-Di and all the rural aunts out there. If you’re looking for a story with a strong connection between a niece and an aunt in a rural community, these are the books for you.

Ghost Wood Song by Erica Waters is an atmospheric young adult (YA) book about Shady Grove, a girl named by bluegrass, and a fiddle that can call up the dead. After her family faces more than one devastating loss, Shady works to use the fiddle to help them with the guidance of her aunt. Together, they navigate long-held family secrets, unburying the past to make way for a future. Framed by bluegrass standards, the relationship between aunt and niece is not always smooth but is always loving. Will they save their family? Will Shady be able to make the ghosts sing?

Weyward by Emilia Hart is a spellbinding adult book about three generations of women across history.

In 1619, Altha stands accused and on trial after a local farmer was trampled by his herd. Taught magic by her mother, Altha must rely on her wits to save her own life and continue her family line. In 1942, Altha’s descendant,

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Violet, is trapped by her family and social convention in the Weyward women’s cabin in the woods. Through Altha’s writings and a locket her mother left her before her death, Violet learns of her magical heritage.

In 2019, Kate flees an abusive relationship to a cabin left to her by her Aunt Violet. Like Violet before her, Kate learns of her family’s magical heritage through books and letters she finds in the cabin. Through those letters, Aunt Violet teaches Kate how to be strong and how to accept who she is. Will Kate be able to make it on her own in the English countryside? Will she be strong enough to face what comes her way?

Flying Solo by Linda Holmes is an adult book that tells the story of Laurie Sassalyn and her great-aunt Dot. Laurie grew up in a small town, in a small house that was full of boys.

She had too many brothers and not enough quiet. When the house became too much, she would go to her Aunt Dot’s house for peace and quiet.

After a life full of adventure, Dot passes away at 93. Because of her close relationship to Dot and her flexible schedule as a freelance nature writer, Laurie takes on the task of going through Dot’s possessions. Through books, stacks of Polaroids, and a mysterious wooden duck, Laurie learns more about her aunt and herself. In a letter from a past lover, the line, “And anyway, if you’re ever desperate, there are always ducks, darling...” sends her on an adventure of her own. Desperate to uncover her great-aunt’s secrets, Laurie must reckon with her own past to figure out what she wants for her future.

Thanks to all of the aunts out there (blood relation or not), who offer guidance and a soft place to land when life is confusing or hard. The world is better because you’re in it.

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National Ag Day Announces 2026 Video Essay Contest Theme: American Agriculture: Imagining the next 250 years The Agriculture Council of America (ACA) has

agriculture in the years ahead? What gaps

announced the National Ag Day Video Essay Contest

must be filled and how will agriculture address

theme, with the winning video to be announced at

those gaps?

National Ag Day activities on March 24, 2026.

The theme for this year is American Agriculture:

•

Personal

Connection:

What

role

will

agriculture play in community, family, or state

Imagining the next 250 years.

in the future?

As American agriculture approaches its 250th birthday in 2026, agriculture

Participants

encouraged

to

explore the future of agriculture and

fundamental industry since our country

present their thoughts, ideas, and

was born, American farmers continue

concerns in a concise and engaging

to provide food, feed, fuel and fiber

manner.

for our nation and the world. What will

The 2026 contest is video only, and

American agriculture look like 250 years

the winner will receive $1,000. The

from now? What changes will have

contest is open to high school students

occurred? What innovations will be in

(Grades 9 through 12). Contestants must

place? How will family and community

be U.S. citizens and attend school in

be involved in agriculture in the decades

the U.S. The deadline for submission is

to come? What strengths will remain and be created to help American ag succeed in the future?

“The video essay contest gives students an opportunity to explore their creativity and vision as they imagine the future of American agriculture over the next 250 years,” said Jenny Pickett, ACA President. “We encourage students to consider the big picture, innovation, and their personal connection to agriculture as they craft their messages.”

Students

are

invited

to

explore

American

agriculture in the future. Students can consider the •

•

midnight, February 7, 2026.

The complete list of rules and regulations, including entry forms, for this contest may be found online: https://www.agday.org/essay-contest.

National Ag Day’s objective is to celebrate agriculture and to help consumers better understand how farmers and the companies serving them produce abundant, healthy, nutritious, and safe food while caring and tending for the land; leading the way in preservation and innovation for the health of our planet... and our families.

National Ag Day is organized by the Agriculture

following angles as they craft their message: Big Picture: Imagine the world in the future.

Council

What role will American agriculture play in

composed of leaders in the agricultural, food and

250 years so that our country will thrive? How

fiber community. ACA is dedicated to increasing

must it evolve over the decades to meet the

public awareness of agriculture’s role in modern

challenges and fulfill the needs of the future?

society.

Innovation: How will science, technology, and innovation support and change American

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are

has never been more important. A

Y

of

America,

a

nonprofit

organization

For more information on National Ag Day, visit www.agday.org.

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We’re working to drive patient-centered progress in innovation, affordability and access to life saving prescription medicines.

Learn more at PhRMA.org

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NOTES FROM A SMALL TOWN

My Own Ship-Board Story expose them. We were taught a part of the 107th Psalm in

By Christopher Dean

second grade; our teacher wrote it on the blackboard and

First Gentleman, Massachusetts State Grange

told us to memorize it in honor of the fishermen who feed There are a lot of stories about the Grange and a ship in this issue, so I thought I’d add my own story of a shipboard adventure that was low-key but life-changing in its small way.

When you grow up on an island with boats as a major part of its history, you soak up some of the vibe whether you want to or not. Let’s be honest, ships are pretty swell; there’s nothing really like them. Wind-powered, coal-fired, diesel, they’re all full of the potential of a life of adventure.

I first saw MGM’s 1937 classic Captains Courageous in my school’s auditorium during the first grade. It was exciting, funny, moving, and enchanting–all at the same time. The movie showed Gloucester as it was almost thirty years before and a lot had changed in those three decades, but the story captivated a lot of us. The sea was wild and mysterious; there was adventure to be had.

When there was a huge storm one winter when I was young, the ribs from the hull of a lost schooner were exposed by the waves at Cape Hedge Beach at the south end of town.

Kids all wanted to see them.

We jumped onto the worn stumps, pretended to be pirates, and dreamed of buried treasure.

I’ve been in awe of the place ever since, and I know that under that sand, The movie Captains Courageous those ribs are captivated the author and inspired him probably still to take on his own ship-board adventure.

Poster in Public Domain there waiting for via WikiMedia Commons another storm to

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us all. I remember it to this day, “They that go down to the sea in ships, that do business in great waters / these see the works of the Lord, and his wonders in the deep. / For he commands, and raises the stormy wind, which lifts up the waves thereof.” It’s written on the base of the memorial statue along the Boulevard that follows the harbor and is dedicated to all the Gloucestermen lost at sea in the course of three centuries. It’s worth a visit during the summer or on rainy or foggy days. The fishing schooners of Gloucester’s great age of sail was a time of myth and reality mingling.

In 1993, I had a chance to sail on a real live schooner as a tourist. The ship was called The Spirit of Massachusetts, and it had been built as an ambassador of the sea for the state. It travelled up and down the coast, taking students or Coast Guard men out to sail a real sailing ship, like the ones that sailed the coast until World War II, catching fish or delivering cut granite to the big cities of the northeast.

There were about fifteen of us and maybe a half-dozen crew, I’m not sure of the numbers now. The tourists were invited to stand watch during the night, two at a time, when we were under sail, and to learn how to lift the sails by pulling ropes. There was no real requirement that we help, but how could we not?

The Spirit of Massachusetts was a beautiful ship, not especially large by modern standards, but right for the use it was intended for, fishing off the Grand Banks. She was beautiful, white and clean, low to the water, and fast. I could see her from the desk where I worked as an architectural drafter in an office along the waterfront of Boston. When I got my confirmation that I would be sailing for the week around July Fourth, I was thrilled and waited for her to arrive, to settle in, and for my time to board. I left from my office with the well-wishes of my coworkers. I was the first tourist to board, and I chose a bunk amidships which had the highest headspace above it. The rest of us came in ones and twos, a retired fireman from Kansas and his wife, a secretary from a downtown office, a medical student from Chicago, among them.

We left the city before sunset, under power, to maneuver through the harbor, past the airport, and out beyond the lighthouses in Boston Harbor. It was magical, there’s no

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other way to describe it. We bonded quickly and comfortably as people do in new situations. There was a divorced woman, Dorothy, from Rhode Island, whose son was staying with his father for the week that she was sailing, a kind and intelligent woman.

She was looking to sample some of what I was looking for as well, and as we got to know each other better, it turned out we all were. Our first meal was excellent, fresh fish, bought that morning in Boston. The cook was shy and bookish; we bonded over books

The Spirit of Massachusetts, as seen from a rowboat in 1993.

Photo by Christopher Dean

we’d read. The captain was not very

bobbing up and down as we entered

would turn out well. She generously

tall, only about my height, blond and

Camden Harbor in Maine on the

described her ex-husband as a well-

tanned; his wife was the first mate. The

morning of the Fourth of July; people

meaning man who couldn’t keep

tourists were a motley bunch, and we

looked at us as celebrities, some

things together even though he tried.

mixed well with the crew.

rowed out to visit or stand on the deck.

We were deep in conversation when

The weather was perfect the whole

Passengers, crew, and a few guests

we were called to the starboard stern,

week, sunny with a light breeze every

all stood on the deck to watch the

where people were standing and

day except the day we sailed into a

fireworks that night.

looking west, “Everybody on deck!

harbor of a small, uninhabited island; it

Camden Harbor was as far north

was foggy all day, and more beautiful

as we were to go; the next day, we

than I can describe as we heard ships’

headed south, back to Boston, a

foghorns in the distance, muted by the

straight shot, no side trips. We sailed

mist. We were so close to the water -

all day, though we were allowed to

and to nature - unencumbered by the

go out on a rowboat to take pictures

familiar city, that we became intensely

of the ship under sail as a souvenir.

open to all of the new things around

No one was brave enough to do it

us. Nature was everywhere, not tamed

except me, and everyone gave me

in parks or backyards as we were used

their camera, so I had to take twelve

to; it was just there, all around us.

cameras out and get a shot or two with

The flight of birds seemed a small

miracle.

The

each on choppy seas.

Look at this!”

We

looked

out

at

the

black

moonless night, the ocean was the same black, and the two blacks were divided by the yellow, distant lights of Portsmouth and the roads along the shore. Suddenly, there were tiny puffs of vibrant colors, orange, red, green, white, each appearing in its time, briefly, then fading to be replaced by more silent brightness against the pure blackness.

foul-tempered

That night, the last full one of our

stalwartness of seagulls was noted.

trip, we were coming up abreast of

A whale slid up right next to us, its

Portsmouth, New Hampshire, which

glistening back appearing out of the

was having their own fireworks a day

“What’s wrong?” I asked.

water as it overtook us; we stood in

late. I was on watch with Dorothy,

Her voice cracked as she said, “This

amazement, there it was: a whale! We

at the port bow, looking out at the

is one of the most beautiful things I’ve

were all, tourists and crew, delighted

Atlantic to our east. We got to talking

ever seen.”

by its appearance. There were seals,

about her son and her failed marriage;

eyeing us with a mild curiosity while

her son sounded like a good kid who

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I could hear small sniffs from Dorothy.

I put my arm around her shoulder.

She was right.

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2025 Lecturer’s Virtual P Agriculture

Juniors America

1st - Bridget Klein, Prospect Point Grange #1067 (WA) 2nd - Ella Fidder, Flora Grange #1762 (IL) 3rd - Jacob Smith, Humptulips Junior Grange #376 (WA)

Animals & Pets

1st - Ella Fidder, Flora Grange #1762 (IL) 2nd - Morgan Arthur, Humptulips Junior Grange #376 (WA) 3rd - Michaela Martin, Valley Grange #1360 (PA)

the Beautiful

★ Grange indu ★ Celebra Rem Water ★ Departm

1st - Morgan Arthur, Humptulips Junior Grange #376 (WA) 2nd - Jacob Smith, Humptulips Junior Grange #376 (WA) 3rd - Michaela Martin, Valley Grange #1360 (PA)

1st - Michaela Martin, Valley Grange #1360 (PA) 2nd - Kamryn Crable, Humptulips Junior Grange #376 (WA) 3rd - Briar Schroeder, Oakview Grange #311 (WA)

Photography Contest Winners Adults

Agriculture

e Hall of Fame 1st - Bobbie Hite, 2nd - Cathy Stark, 3rd - Daria D’Arienzo, uction ation of Bridges membrance mental Awards

Terrapin Neck Grange #832 (VA) Stanford Grange #808 (NY Williamsburg Grange #225 (MA)

1st - Wendy Martin, Valley Grange #1360 (PA) 2nd - Lauren Vaill, Ware Grange #164 (MA) 3rd - Gene Edelen, Chester Royal Grange #2181 (IA)

America the Beautiful

1st - Christine Hamp, Five Mile Prairie Grange #905 (WA) 2nd - Lizzie Ellington, Otter Creek Grange #1493 (KS) 3rd - Theresa Jones, Stelvideo Grange #295 (OH)

Flowers Say it All

1st - Stephanie Day, Long Beach Grange #667 (WA) 2nd - Wendy Martin, Valley Grange #1360 (PA) 3rd - Tom Gwin, Humptulips Grange #730 (WA)

View all the winning photos at www.nationalgrange.org/lecturer-contests/

A Newer New Year

By Ann Olson Bercher

President, Minnesota State Grange Certified Culinary Specialist Another new year has arrived, and with it come the traditions of past New Years, which is ironic, since the new year is still so full of the old. Not that old traditions are a bad thing. I love history and tradition, which offer us a kind of easy entry because we “sort of” know what to expect.

And while we all have also come off of a good month or two of traditional holiday celebrations, from Halloween, Day of the Dead, Thanksgiving, Friendsgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa to New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, this year I want to explore a different new year…. A Newer New Year.

This is a column about food, so naturally, I needed to look back at traditional New Year’s foods and drinks.

Cabbage symbolizes long life and financial success.

Eating Black Eyed Peas on New Year’s, from African American history, was believed to increase the chances of prosperity.

When thinking about traditions from multiple cultures and across the US, one also needs to consider food trends. What are the foods that people gravitate toward as traditional fare? What do consumers look for when considering something new? I have researched and discovered some predictions through the expertise of Google.

In Russia, a New Year’s tradition is to write a New Year’s wish on a piece of paper, burn it, put the ashes of your now-burnt wish in your champagne, and then drink it! I couldn’t help but notice that they don’t put ashes in their vodka!

A unique tradition in Türkiye (Turkey) is to smash a pomegranate outside of your front door to bring you luck.

And I wish anyone who does this good luck in getting the red stain of the ruby fruit off anything nearby!

In Ireland, families will bang loaves of bread against walls and doors to ward off evil spirits and clear the path ahead for a prosperous and healthy new year.

A German and Eastern European tradition is to eat pork and cabbage (especially sauerkraut). Since pigs root forward with their noses for food (rather than scratching backwards like chickens), eating pork celebrates looking forward in the new year.

Apparently, people are becoming more curious, braver, and willing to try mixing unique flavors together.

According to Nestlé, in 2024, the sweet-andspicy flavor mixture was the hot trend. For 2026, they are predicting adding tangy to the mixture. They are affectionately calling this trend “Swangy.” But they are also predicting that “Swavory” might also catch on—that is, “sweet, spicy, and savory.”

Taking that a step further, they are predicting some unusual flavor combinations such as jalapeño lemonade or pickle juice in cocktails, balsamic glaze on vanilla ice cream, or peanut butter on BLT sandwiches. Nestlé also predicts that people will want more interesting textures; creamier or crunchier or crispier, and maybe unexpectedly as well.

The Food Institute is suggesting that consumers may be searching for more affordable indulgences, or spicy snacks and products that will improve their gut health.

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Upcoming Food Trends

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Some of their predictions include

be the next trend by using maple

2026, but by looking forward, I can

flat bread as an alternative to thick

syrup, honey, or fruit to replace

see that combining these superfoods

pizza crusts, baguettes and sandwich

high amounts of sugar for flavor and

in different, nontraditional ways,

buns.

texture.

Whole Foods Market is predicting

Consumers are also looking for alternatives.

According

and adding the unexpected flavor combination, the textures, and some

that vinegars will have a renaissance

healthy

with more vinegars infused with a

to Registered Dietitians, the top

variety of flavors to add depth and

superfoods for 2025 were fermented

complexity to dishes, and not just for

foods, berries, bone broth, seeds,

salad dressing.

avocado, leafy greens, nuts, ancient

that I predict will address some of

While everyone likes a little

grains, green tea, and legumes. I

the future trends as I look to the new

something sweet, subtly sweet might

don’t see that list changing much for

year in a new way.

President’s Recipe

health benefits might be a future trend.

The following are some recipes

shared by President Christine Hamp

Hatteras-Style Clam Chowder

Ingredients: 1 – 16 oz. package sliced bacon, chopped 1 large onion, finely chopped 4 large carrots, thinly sliced 5 stalks celery, chopped

1 – 32 oz. bag of cubed potatoes 6 – 6.5 oz. cans of chopped (or minced) clams, with juice 5 – 8 oz. jars of clam juice 1 teaspoon fresh thyme ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions: Cook bacon. Remove pieces. Add onion, carrots, and celery to bacon drippings and cook until soft. Add potatoes, clams, clam juice, thyme, pepper, and bacon. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender.

Enjoy with family and friends!

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Let’s look at the healthy trend: Fermentation for better gut health.

People have become more interested in their digestive health. There is a surprising community of bacteria living in our

benefits. Many fermented foods contain live probiotics, which are beneficial for digestive health.

intestines that helps manage our biological functions related to

You probably already eat several fermented foods, such

what we eat and how our bodies use it. Some people are more

as yogurt with live or “active” cultures and kefir, a fermented

concerned about this than others, but the bonus of eating

milk. Sauerkraut, kimchi, miso, tempeh, and kombucha contain

fermented foods is not just what it does for your body; the

probiotics as long as they have not been pasteurized. Heat kills

foods are very tasty! They are also very easy to make at home.

the live bacteria that make them beneficial.

Fermented foods have undergone a controlled process

The process of fermenting almost anything requires the use

of microbial growth that converts products such as sugar into

of salt. If you are on a diet that restricts salt, eating a lot of

byproducts such as alcohol or acid. Enzymes involved in the

fermented foods that you make at home may not be the best

conversion process help to preserve the foods, change the

thing for you.

taste and texture of the foods, and also provide many health

How to

Ferment almost any Vegetable

2 teaspoons salt (not iodized) dissolved in 2 cups water 1 pound of vegetables (carrots, radishes, onions, cucumbers, summer squash, etc)

Optional additions: 1 garlic clove, ¼ teaspoon chili flakes, 2 – 3 inches of fresh ginger root, sliced thin

1. Wash and peel (if desired) vegetables and cut into ¼” thick slices or strips.

2. Place garlic and chili flakes on the bottom of a 1-quart mason jar.

3. Layer vegetables and ginger on top, packing them tightly.

Fill to the bottom of the neck of the jar.

4. Add brine to submerge the vegetables. Use a weight, such as a clean rock or a sachet made with clean marbles or stones, to keep the vegetables submerged.

5. Cover with cheesecloth and secure with string.

6. Place in a cool, dark place for 2 – 4 weeks, checking every few days to be sure the vegetables remain submerged.

7. When vegetables have fermented to your taste, replace the cheesecloth with a lid and ring and store in the refrigerator. *Your fermented food should not taste salty, but tangy or a bit sour, and perhaps a bit spicy if you have used chili flakes or other chilis or peppers. The beauty of trying this out is that you can make as little as one pint for your experiment!

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makes 1 quart

Flat Bread as a healthier alternative to thick crusts, etc: but also a nice vehicle for adding all those new flavor combinations to get them into your mouth!

Flat breads include a wide variety of thin bready vehicles for getting various toppings into your mouth! In addition to

Here is a flat bread recipe you might like to try with some unusual toppings:

tortillas used as very thin crusts or wraps, you can use naan, pita bread, or pocket bread. Thinner crusts mean fewer calories, fewer carbs and are less filling.

Pita Bread two ways: Baked or

2 1/4 cups bread flour or all-purpose flour 1 cup lukewarm water (110 – 115 degrees F) 1 teaspoon instant yeast

1 teaspoon sugar ½ teaspoon fine sea salt Avocado oil (optional)

Pan Fried makes 6

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine water, yeast, sugar and salt. Set aside until it is frothy, about 10 minutes.

2. Add the flour to the yeast mixture and mix until a shaggy dough forms. Use your hands to lightly knead the dough in the bowl to form a rough ball. The dough will be sticky.

3. Cover the bowl with a towel and let rest in a warm place until dough has doubled, 45 minutes to 1 hour.

4. Place dough ball on a lightly floured surface and divide into 6 pieces.

5. To bake the pita, cut parchment paper into 6-inch o squares. Preheat oven to 475 F and place a pizza stone in the oven or use a baking sheet turned upside down.

6. Roll each piece into a ball, cover with a towel and let rest 10 minutes.

7. Use your fingers to press the dough into 6 inch circles.

If baking, place the circles on the parchment paper squares. Cover with a towel and let rest 10 more minutes.

To Bake for Pita Pockets o 8. Preheat oven to 475 F with the pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven for at least 30 minutes before baking to be sure the stone or pan is hot enough.

9. Place parchment sheets with dough on the stone or baking sheet and bake until puffed with some golden spots, 5 to 6 minutes. Remove using tongs, place in a bowl and cover with a towel to cool. Repeat as necessary to bake all of the pitas.

To Cook in a Skillet for Soft Flatbreads 8. Heat a heavy-bottomed skill over medium heat. Add a drizzle of avocado oil, then place a pita circle in the pan.

9. Carefully flip and cook the other side when golden brown spots have appeared, 2-3 minutes per side.

If they are over-browning and still doughy in the middle, you can finish them in a 350-degree oven for 5 minutes.

flip the page for two unique ways to use these flatbreads

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Poblano Shrimp 2 medium poblano peppers 6 slices bacon, cut into ½ “ pieces 12 uncooked extra-large shrimp, thawed if frozen, peeled, deveined, and tails removed ¼ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon pepper 6 flat breads (single serving) ½ cup cream cheese 4 cups Monterey Jack cheese, shredded 15 ounces whole kernel corn, thawed if frozen, or drained if canned ¼ cup fresh cilantro leaves (optional)

Flatbread serves 6

1. Set oven to broil, line a cookie sheet with foil, and broil poblano peppers 3-4 inches from the heat until charred, turning as needed.

Remove and wrap blackened chilies in foil and let stand until cool.

2. Turn off broiler and heat oven to o 425 F. 3. In a 10-inch skillet, cook bacon over medium-high heat 4–6 minutes until crisp. Remove from skillet and drain on a paper towel.

4. Add shrimp to skillet, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and cook 1–2 minutes on each side or until shrimp just turn pink. Place on a paper towel-lined plate.

5. Gently rub chilies with a towel to remove the charred skins, Cut the top off and slice the pepper into ¼ inch strips.

6. Spread crema over the flatbreads to within ½ in from the edge. Top with cheese, peppers, corn, bacon, and shrimp.

7. Bake 9 – 11 minutes until shrimp is cooked through and cheese is melted.

Artichoke Prosciutto

Flatbread Pizza

1 cup ricotta cheese or cottage cheese Juice and finely grated zest of 1 lemon 4 serving-sized pieces of flatbread 5 ounces baby arugula ¼ bunch of chives, cut into 1-inch pieces, about 1/3 cup o

serves 4

1 cup sliced marinated artichoke hearts 2 tablespoons olive oil ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese Kosher salt 6 ounces prosciutto 2 tablespoons pistachios (optional)

1. Preheat oven to 400 F and place the racks in the upper and lower thirds of oven.

2. In a small bowl, combine the ricotta, lemon zest, and a few grinds of pepper. Spread on the flatbread and place on baking sheets. Bake, switching the baking sheets halfway through, until the flatbread is golden and crisp around the edges, about 10 minutes.

3. In a medium bowl, combine the arugula, chives, artichokes, and parmesan. Add the lemon juice and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Toss well.

4. Arrange the prosciutto on the pizza and top with the arugula mixture.

Garnish with pistachios.

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Vinegars infused with new flavors.

Basil, oregano, rosemary, dill, and thyme are easily obtained

Any edible berry will make an excellent vinegar. Try

in most grocery stores all winter. You will need three to four

strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries, but also consider

springs of fresh herbs or 3 tablespoons of dried herbs for each

other fruits such as pears, peaches, oranges, lemons, or limes.

pint of vinegar.

You can use the peel of an orange or lemon, or 1-2 cups of

Spices you might like to try include allspice berries, bay

sliced fruit per pint of vinegar.

leaves, capers, cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, coriander, cumin

For some fun, try using jalapeno peppers or hotter chilies

seeds, garlic cloves, fresh ginger, peppercorns, mustard seed,

of your choice for a spicier vinegar. Use 1 – 2 cups of sliced

and pepper. Don’t use ground spices, as that will make the

vegetables per pint of vinegar.

vinegar look cloudy. You will need 1-2 teaspoons of the smaller

Use high-quality vinegar. Consider what color you would

spices, 1-2 cloves of garlic, or 1-2 cinnamon sticks per pint of

like the base to be and what flavor you are looking for. Fruits

vinegar.

blend well with apple cider vinegar. For delicate flavors of herbs, use distilled white vinegar. For stronger flavored spices herbs and vegetables, use red wine vinegar.

Flavor-infused

Vinegar 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Prepare your fruits, vegetables, and/or herbs.

Peel citrus and remove as much white pith as possible.

Remove any yellowed leaves from herbs.

Rinse in cool running water to remove dirt or debris and dry.

Spices or small slices of vegetables or fruits may be tied up in cheesecloth sachets.

6. Gently bruise herbs and small fruits.

7. Place vegetables, fruits, and herbs in warm, sterilized jars. Cover with vinegar that is at room temperature. Cap tightly with sterilized lids.

8. Allow to stand for 3 – 4 weeks in a cool, dark area. Shake the jars every couple of days.

9. Taste for flavor development after a few weeks.

10. When the desired flavor is obtained, strain the liquid through damp cheesecloth or a coffee filter. Discard the flavoring ingredients.

11. Pour strained vinegar into clean, sterilized jars or bottles and add a sprig or two of fresh herbs or a small amount of fruit, vegetables, or spices.

12. Cap and seal tightly.

13. For best flavor retention, store the vinegars in the refrigerator for up to 8 months. Stored at room temperature, flavored vinegars will last for up to 3 months in a cool, dark place.

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Healthier Indulgences: Chocolate pudding and dunkers.

My personal indulgence is making chocolate pudding and eating it warm by dunking buttered bread into it, like eating a personal fondue. This recipe is nothing like what my mother used to make, but it is a delicious alternative that is much healthier than the whole milk and milk chocolate version she made.

Chocolate Pudding

Healthier

3 tablespoons Arrowroot powder, or cornstarch 1/3 cup cacao powder a pinch of sea salt 2 cups milk of choice, such as unsweetened coconut milk, cashew milk, or skim milk

2 tablespoons ghee, clarified butter, or unrefined coconut oil 1/3 cup raw honey, or pure maple syrup 1 tsp vanilla extract, or almond extract 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips

1. In a saucepan, whisk to combine: Arrowroot powder, cacao powder, and salt. Add 1/3 cup of milk and whisk until smooth.

Stir in the remaining milk, together with the ghee or clarified butter, honey, and vanilla. Place your pot on the stove over low heat.

2. Cook the pudding on low heat while gently whisking the ingredients together. Make sure to stir continuously, scraping the sides of the pan, until the liquid begins to thicken and bubble. Simmer for about 1 minute.

3. Remove from the heat and stir in your chocolate chips. Whisk until chocolate is melted, and mixture becomes super smooth with no visible lumps.

4. Divide pudding among pudding bowls. Serve warm with lightly buttered slices of sourdough bread for dunking.

hrough the Grange Sto ble tfor a l i a re v digital download A

1976

1986

1979

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issuu.com/grangegoodday

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THE LAST

Word

By Roger Bostwick High Priest of Demeter

“Change is good—you go first.”

I first saw that phrase in the Dilbert comic strip by Scott Adams in the 1990s. Since then, it has become a staple in leadership and motivational seminars because it perfectly captures how most people feel about change: We know it’s necessary for survival, yet we hesitate when it comes to taking the first step.

Change is not always good—but it is always necessary.

Whether it’s good or not depends on what the change is and, more importantly, how it is handled. Whether we like it or not, change is unavoidable.

I’ll be the first to admit it: I’m a traditionalist. I like the old ways. Like most people, I find comfort in the familiar, and old habits are hard to break. But I am also a realist.

We, as Grangers, face real challenges, and modernization is essential.

As National President Chris Hamp said in her Internal Address at the 159th Annual Convention, “we are embarking on a rebranding initiative for the first time in more than 60 years. Rebranding is not about changing who we are; it’s about clearly showing the world who we’ve become and where we’re going. It’s about honoring our legacy while equipping the next generation of community and civic leaders with a modern, relevant Grange that reflects their energy and vision.”

Modernization, however, does not mean abandoning our heritage - it means renewing it. For organizations to grow and remain relevant, we must adapt to the realities of the present age while preserving the principles that define us.

The Grange’s strength has always been rooted in its traditions. Our rituals, degrees, symbols, and time-

honored ceremonies represent unity, equality, and stewardship of the land. They offer a shared identity and moral foundation. These practices are not mere formalities; they teach timeless lessons about integrity, service, and brotherhood. Tradition is the soul of the Grange. It provides continuity and belonging, linking today’s members with those who came before us.

For generations, local Granges have been pillars of their communities, fostering character development and lifelong bonds. Our customs and values—which have lasted for over a century and a half—have shaped generations of members. Tradition connects us to the spirit of the early Grangers who met in barns and schoolhouses, united by the desire to support farmers, strengthen families, and build strong communities.

Yet today, in a world shaped by rapid technological change, shifting demographics, and evolving social norms, the Grange faces an urgent question: How do we remain relevant while preserving the traditions that make us who we are?

When tradition becomes rigid, it can unintentionally create barriers for new members living in a vastly different cultural landscape. Younger generations crave meaning and connection, but they may struggle to relate to customs that feel outdated or exclusionary. Our task is to preserve the ceremonial richness of the Grange while helping new members understand its purpose in a modern context.

Preserving tradition must go hand in hand with demonstrating its relevance to contemporary life.

Balancing tradition and modernization requires

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both respect and courage—the courage to protect the Grange’s heart while reimagining its form. Our older members offer wisdom and history; our younger members bring energy and innovation. Together, they create the foundation for a vibrant future.

A good way to connect with our newer members is to use technology to blend in-person and virtual fellowship: Technology can broaden the reach of our meetings, programs, and discussions—without replacing the warmth of face-to-face community. The younger members would be invaluable in accomplishing this task. To paraphrase the Lecturer’s installation charge, “to develop and direct to a greater sense of usefulness the abilities of your members.” We can also continue leading the way in addressing the modern rural issues that affect all ages. With our strong advocacy heritage, the Grange is well-positioned to address 21st-century challenges—

JEWELRY

from agricultural technology to renewable energy to rural healthcare.

Together, we can build a stronger, more vibrant Grange.

The founders of the Grange envisioned an organization that would uplift communities, strengthen families, and promote the common good. That vision is just as powerful today as it was in 1867. By balancing tradition with modernization, we ensure that the Grange remains not a museum piece, but a living, growing movement— one that honors its proud past while embracing the possibilities of the future.

By preserving our heritage and welcoming innovation, the Grange can continue to be what it has always been: a beacon of unity, service, and hope for rural America and beyond.

People, Pride, and Progress

by David M. Howard This history book chronicles the impact of the Grange over the first 125 years of the organization.

Was $12.00, now discounted to $6.00.

1-inch pins!

Junior Grange pin - $5 4th Degree pin - $10

Redesigned Silver Star Pin $15 Recognize members who have reached 25 years of continual membership!

Member recognition pins are

10” Grange Decal Sticker This shiny and reflective sticker is sure to make your display or sign a stand-out!

Just $3.50 each LIMITED AVAILABILITY

available in 5-year increments from 5 years through 80 years All Past Office (Master, Lecturer, Secretary, and Past Junior Master) pins, and various Degree charms and ties bars are on sale!

Prices vary.

Lapel / Grange Officer sash pins Buy 3 or more for a discounted price.

Available: E, F, H, L, M, O, P, S

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Grange Orientation Kit 225-piece kit includes new brochures to help recruit and introduce new and prospective members to the Grange. $30 each, plus shipping.

Packs of individual brochures are also available to purchase.

Order at www.grangestore.org or call (202) 628-3507 ext. 109

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