Issuu

Good DAY!

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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

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.

Good DAY!

N & V

GRANGE NEWS & VIEWS

GRANGE FOUNDATION

S RA

THE STATE OF RURAL AMERICA

IDEAS FOR GRANGE PROGRAMS & ACTION

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MEMBERSHIP NEWS & RECOGNITION

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JUNIOR GRANGE & GRANGE YOUTH

H & L

HOBBIES & LIFESTYLE

F & R

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

PERSPECTIVES:

Convention at Sea

@nationalgrange

National Grange

@nationalgrangeofficial @nationalgrangeyouth @national_junior_grange

@nationalgrange

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)

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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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

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.

GOOD DAY!™ MAGAZINE www.nationalgrange.org

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

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.

GOOD DAY!™ MAGAZINE www.nationalgrange.org

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:

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

GOOD DAY!™ MAGAZINE www.nationalgrange.org

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

GOOD DAY!™ MAGAZINE www.nationalgrange.org

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

GOOD DAY!™ MAGAZINE www.nationalgrange.org

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)

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

GOOD DAY!™ MAGAZINE www.nationalgrange.org

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

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*

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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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.

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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