Good Day! Volume 6, Issue 2 by National Grange

Good DAY!

A quarterly publication of the National Grange Vol. 6, Issue 2 l August 2022

Forming Connections Through fun and education, regional conferences provide many ways to create connections and lasting fraternal bonds with friends from around the country.

™

Good DAY!

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GRANGE NEWS & VIEWS

LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS

S RA

THE STATE OF RURAL AMERICA

IDEAS FOR GRANGE PROGRAMS & ACTION

FOUNDATION

MEMBERSHIP NEWS & RECOGNITION

JUNIOR GRANGE

GRANGE YOUTH

H & L

HOBBIES & LIFESTYLE

F & R

FOOD & RECIPES

L W

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ON THE COVER Regional Conferences

Grange members play a game while blindfolded during the Great Plains Leadership Conference in June. Regional Conferences are a great time to make new connections while deepening your understanding of the Grange through fun and more. Photo by Molly Newman

LAST WORD

Good Day! Magazine is a quarterly publication of the National Grange. located at 1616 H St. NW, 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 ®

www.nationalgrange.org

Staff

WHAT’S THE GRANGE? The National Grange was founded as a fraternal organization for farm families in 1867 – opening its doors to men and women equally from the start. From rural free delivery of mail to the direct election of U.S. Senators by the people, Grange has influenced many aspects of American life and culture. Today we continue to advocate for rural Americans and those interested in all areas of agriculture – including those who just like to eat – and our local Granges provide millions of dollars and hours of service to their neighbors annually. Each Grange operates as a grassroots unit, taking on projects most appropriate for their communities and advocating based on their members’ beliefs.

OUR

Betsy E. Huber, Publisher National Grange President President, Grange Foundation President, Grange Advocacy betsy@nationalgrange.org Philip J. Vonada, Editor Communications Director pvonada@nationalgrange.org Stephanie Wilkins, Subscriptions Manager IT Director swilkins@nationalgrange.org Burton Eller, Advertising Partner Legislative Director Executive Director, Grange Advocacy beller@nationalgrange.org

Learn more at www.nationalgrange.org.

Officers

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

OUR

Betsy Huber, PA, President betsy@nationalgrange.org

William “Chip” Narvel, DE, National Steward

Chris Hamp, WA, Vice President champ@grange.org

John Plank, IN, National Assistant Steward

Lynette Schaeffer, IL,

Executive Committee Chair lschaeffer@grange.org Susan Noah, OR

Executive Committee Member snoah@grange.org Leroy Watson, NH Executive Committee Member & Grange Advocacy Board Chair leroyawatson@nationalgrange.org William “Buddy” Overstreet, TX, Executive Committee Member boverstreet@grange.org Ann Bercher, MN, National Lecturer

lecturer@nationalgrange.org

Loretta Washington Sales, Benefits, Programs & Membership Recognition Director lwashington@nationalgrange.org Samantha Wilkins Operations Coordinator & National Junior Grange Director samantha@nationalgrange.org

Kathy Gibson, MA, National Lady Assistant Steward Barbara Borderieux, FL, National Chaplain Joe Goodrich, VT, National Treasurer

Mandy Bostwick Youth & Young Adults Development Director youth@nationalgrange.org

Debbie Campbell, PA, National Secretary

Pete Pompper Community Service Director communityservice@nationalgrange.org

Christopher Johnston, MI, National Gatekeeper

Sean O’Neil Legislative Assistant soneil@nationalgrange.org

Cindy Greer, CO, National Ceres Kay Stiles, MD, National Pomona Welina Shufeldt, OK, National Flora

Mujo Mrkonjic Building Engineer HEADQUARTERS PHONE (202) 628-3507

GOOD DAY!™ MAGAZINE

4 ®

www.nationalgrange.org

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Betsy E. Huber

Summer is my absolute favorite

multiplied quickly - by 1875, the Grange

time of year. I love to putter around

boasted

over

858,000

members.

outside on my lawn and garden. In the

The eight Founders and many others

springtime I can’t wait to get my hands

devoted their lives to making the

in the dirt again and see the seeds start

organization grow throughout the

growing.

land, adding the moisture and fertilizer

Now, my garden is growing so fast

to ensure its healthy growth. Sowing

and so lush that I can’t keep up with the

the seed in good soil made it multiply

weeding. We had a lot of rain late June/

thirty, sixty, even a hundred-fold.

early July in my area - although 60 miles

How is the growth of your Grange?

away they are very dry and many areas

Are you watering and feeding it enough

of the country are in extreme drought. I

for good growth? Like plants, we can’t

feel very blessed!

expect a Grange to grow without some

The rain and the warm temperatures

attention and care. It will survive for a

- not too hot - have been perfect for

while, but without water and fertilizer

fast growth. Those loads of spent

there won’t be much of a harvest.

mushroom compost last spring have

Without attention, soon the weeds will

done wonders. Tomato plants look like

choke out the good vegetables and

a jungle and potato plants are huge

fruits we’re trying to produce. I see the

and blossoming.

weeds as internal squabbles among

member should be willing to take on some responsibility, according to their abilities and stage of life. Not everyone can stoop down and weed, not everyone has hours to spend volunteering, but everyone can do something to contribute. Maybe we can consider social media and websites as fertilizer to give our growth a boost. Fair exhibits and displays can help too. During

this

beautiful

summer

We can think of the beginning of

members who focus their attention

the Grange as a seed that the Founders

internally instead of on serving their

season, think of what you can do to help

planted and nurtured as patrons of

community.

your Grange be growing and active,

husbandry. The soil of the country

A growing Grange, like a productive

was fertile to receive that seed, as it

garden, needs some effort. Each

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GOOD DAY!™ MAGAZINE www.nationalgrange.org

bringing a great harvest of activities and service to your community.

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!™ PRESS DATES 2022/23 Issue

Due Date

Hits Mailboxes

V6, I4

November 30

January 2023

V6, I3 V7, I1 V7, I2

August 31

January 31 April 30

October 2022 March 2023 June 2023

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.).

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GOOD DAY!™ MAGAZINE www.nationalgrange.org

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.

From the desk of the PHILIP J. VONADA In May, I was given an opportunity to be a “part of the process” at my local polling place on our Primary Election Day. This was my first time seeing the behind-the-scenes action of a local election, and it won’t be my last. In a world of political strife and “he-said/she-said,” one of the biggest questions I ask is - what are you doing about it? How are you working to make things better? What more can you or should you be doing that you aren’t already? If that means spending 14 hours volunteering at a polling place to see the process yourself, then do it. If your solution is to hold a “meet the candidates” night or open forum at your Grange Hall so community members

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Editor

can hear directly from people who hope to shape local or state laws, then do it. If you want to be part of a march or rally for a cause, then do it! And, perhaps the biggest action of all you could take is to run for public office yourself - if you truly want to make a change in your community, run for an open seat on your school board or town council - the impact your local lawmakers have on your hometowns is potentially far greater than “out-of-touch” legislators in Congress. You can be a part of the process in the biggest way. To me, one of the things that makes our country great is that we are allowed to have different opinions. The First Amendment to the United States Constitution grants citizens the right to voice those opinions and to take action on those opinions. That’s not to say there won’t be repercussions on those actions or opinions, but if you feel strongly about something, then it’s your right to speak and to act on it. So, what can you do? Here are some non-partisan ideas for Granges to get involved in the process: • Hold a voter recruitment drive • Hold a meet-the-candidates night • Hold a town hall or political forum • Educate your members on the political process, from how laws are made to how to run for office • Contact your county elections office and volunteer your Grange Hall as a polling place • Encourage your members to volunteer as poll workers on Election Day • Write resolutions to submit to your Grange about local, state, or national issues that you feel should have attention brought to them • Vote in every election - primaries, midterms, local, state, and national - and encourage Grange members and community members to vote, too There are myriad ways for you and your Grange to be a part of the process. The Grange was founded as an organization that wanted to make things better for communities and for the country and that’s what we are still doing 155 years later. I encourage you to get out there and be a part of the process and find a way to make your world better.

GOOD DAY!™ MAGAZINE www.nationalgrange.org

Editorial: Good Enough, Isn’t. By Chris Hamp Vice President, National Grange

I have always been motivated by printed words. These words, most often formed into small groups as quotes, have always had a place on my mirror, stamped onto a bracelet on my wrist, pinned to my bulletin board and even above the back door – anyplace where they can serve as a reminder as I take on the day, a competition and/or the world. Examples include: “Trust the Process”; “Pain is Temporary. Quitting is Forever.”; “Well Behaved Women Rarely Make History”; and “Good Enough, Isn’t”. We’ve all heard the saying, “good enough” – meaning that even though the

homework

assignment,

home

improvement project or meal preparation

to be challenged? Why do we most

would

often choose to do little to nothing to

agree

make today even better than yesterday?

that two

Is “good enough” a function of time, of

percent

energy, of money, of skill, of desire or a

isn’t

combination of any or all of these? Are

h u g e

these reasons? Excuses?

number,

Now let’s consider your community

but

Grange. When describing your Grange,

working

do your members, your community and

to make

any potential members use descriptors

such as active, energetic and relevant? If

percent improvement in something every

so, fantastic! Keep up the great work! If

day for a year my something becomes

not, why not?

more than 1,377 times better and if I kept

When

driving

home

from

two

your

up my two percent daily awesomeness

community Grange meeting, or national or

for two years my something is more than

state convention or regional conference,

1,897,253 times better! Yes, please and

do you find yourself energized, excited to

thank you!

try new things and full of confidence for

This means being accountable –

the future? If not, consider the concept of

accountable to myself, accountable to

one percent incremental improvement – if

my family and friends, accountable to

you can commit to making a one percent

my co-workers, and accountable to the

improvement in an area every day the

organizations for which I have chosen

cumulative gains are extraordinary.

to work and to volunteer. My challenge

isn’t perfect or exactly what had been

Here is how the math works: if you

to myself every day is to kick my effort

can get one percent better each day for

in everything I do up a notch, to not

imagined

been

one year, you will be more than thirty-

just check the box, but to finish strong.

determined that the effort expended

seven times better by the time you are

Remember, we only have one chance to

checks the box.

done. Work at getting better one percent

leave a great first impression.

desired

has

Why are we as individuals generally

a day for two years and the “betterness”

Don’t just look for the opportunity

so apt to settle for the easy way or the

increases to more than 1,427 times! Wow!

to kick it up a notch, but make the

quick way? Why do we allow ourselves

The math is even more amazing

opportunity and then take it! Please don’t

to settle for mediocrity? Why do we not

when you calculate for a two percent

settle for good enough! Good enough,

want to be held accountable, not want

incremental improvement. Most of us

isn’t!

Let’s hear your story

Indeed, being a Grange member is one of the most rewarding experiences. For many, the story of how they came to join the Grange does not capture the essence of how they came to be a Granger and what that means in their lives. We want to hear from you! What is your #GrangeStory that tells how you became a Granger? Did you see application of degree lessons to your daily life and relate them to friends and coworkers? Did you find yourself embracing new ideas and finding ways to overcome differences? Submit your story of no more than 650 words and a photo, if applicable, to Philip at pvonada@nationalgrange.org by September 1 for potential inclusion in a future issue of Good Day! or use on our social media.

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GOOD DAY!™ MAGAZINE www.nationalgrange.org

Editorial: A Fraternity of Tradition coop, and perform many of the mundane and then willfully

By Thomas Sulier

forgotten chores of my youth.

Harmony Grange #92, Connecticut

Today, these beautiful memories are my personal treasures

I oftentimes reflect on the truism that some of the greatest treasures in life surround us and we, unknowingly, don’t realize this until some later time in life.

and they come back to me every time I am at the Grange. I have found that the Grange is where I can relax and be myself, where one’s input and assistance is always wanted and

My membership in the Grange is one of those things that

appreciated.

not only serves me with the ongoing fellowship of a fraternity,

The men and women who keep the Grange going by

but in essence, serves as an extended family which provides

laboring tirelessly carry on the traditions that underpin the

me with education, entertainment, at times an informal coffee

essence of the Grange. These unsung heroes keep the

house, a social center, and a political action committee which

institution going and their good and gentle work does not go

reinforces and provides me with an outlet for my deep-seated

unnoticed.

Patriotism.

The Grange has enriched my life in so many ways I never

It also serves as my personal time machine, which transports me to the treasures of my youth, growing up on a farm.

anticipated when I first joined many years ago. The kindness and generosity I have encountered in my Grange has made it

Sometimes, I can almost see my grandmother giving me a

akin to a second home, one which transcends both time and

kettle of hot water to pour on the outside frozen hand pump

place, where I can still experience that small Michigan farm

in winter so I could carry water, bring in eggs from the chicken

which I once called home 50 years ago.

ter Today s i g ! Re November 15 - 19 Nugget Casino Resort Sparks, Nevada

Early Bird registration closes on September 9

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GOOD DAY!™ MAGAZINE www.nationalgrange.org

Board of Directors hard at work from the Headquarters to trademarks, the Board tackles many issues during the year Demeter members and Seventh Degree Directors concerning

By Lynette Schaeffer

the Seventh Degree presentation production and costs was

Chairperson, National Grange Board of Directors

hosted by the NGBoD.

I want to update all Grange

• The Board discussed the upcoming National Convention

members on the deliberations

plans. A site has been selected for the 2025 National Session

and pursuits of the National

in Charlotte, NC. A committee will be appointed to re-image

Grange Board of Directors

the National Grange Convention, which is currently seeking

(NGBoD).

interested persons to join.

The Board is comprised of

Executive

members

Lynette

• An Investment Policy Committee has been created and

Committee

has met several times. They are to formulate a policy for the

Schaeffer

investment when the building is sold. Buddy Overstreet is the

(IL, Chairperson), Susan Noah

liaison between the Board and the Policy Committee.

(OR, Secretary), Leroy Watson

• We have discussed National Grange trademark issues,

(NH), Buddy Overstreet (TX),

the main one at this point is with a company called Herddogg,

as well as National Grange

which sells tracking devices for cattle and promotes a service

President Betsy Huber (PA), and Vice President Chris Hamp

called The Grange on their website. Thanks to all the Granges

(WA).

and Grangers for sending the requested information to

Each month, the Board of Directors meets (usually via Zoom) for at least 2 hours per meeting, plus there have been

National Grange office. The gathered information will be used to protect our trademark. • All the members of the NGBoD were in attendance at

many special meetings. At all regularly-scheduled and special meetings, there has

the Champions of Rural America reception held at the NG

been much discussion about the sale of the headquarters

headquarters conference room. It was great to attend and

in Washington, DC, possibilities for the future locations,

meet the recipients. Congressman Dan Newhouse (WA),

purchase, and rental.

Sara Wyant founder of Agri-Pulse, and our good friend of the

A letter of intent had been signed with a developer but, as

Grange Nona Bear, patient advocate and healthcare reform

of early July, the time has expired and the Board is once again

advocate were in attendance. A later presentation to Senator

allowing interested people/groups to study the building.

Manchin (WV) was held. The next day, Board members were

In April, the Board heard a presentation from Nathan

all in attendance at the Grange Advocacy quarterly meeting

Strawder, Kansas State Grange, as to why there should be

in the morning and NGBoD meeting in the afternoon and the

a National Grange office in Kansas City metro. Nathan had

next day.

a package of Kansas City metro market rentals, buildings for purchase, that also included cost of living, flight costs and average salaries. The Board is open to hearing similar

• We ratified a decision to donate the Mountville Grange Hall in South Carolina to the Mountville Fire Department. • The NGBoD was pleased with the attendance at the President’s Conference in Myrtle Beach, Washington DC

“pitches” from other states.

Experience, and Legislative Fly-In by Grangers. The events Other points of our meetings:

had great workshops, tours and fellowship. The Board met

• The NGBoD members review financial records and

in person prior to the President’s Conference. Thanks to all

Director reports at each meeting. The finances are looking

those who worked together to plan, prepare and present the

decent at this point, but we need to keep a tight oversight on

events.

all funds. We are meeting via Zoom for the August meeting; though we usually meet in-person as the budget discussion

The Board of Directors is hard at work for the good of

begins at this meeting. It is good to hear what the directors

all Grangers across the country, and we look forward to

are working on, have planned and review of previous projects.

continuing to represent you. If you have any concerns, feel

• A brain-storming session via Zoom with the Assembly of

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free to reach out.

GOOD DAY!™ MAGAZINE www.nationalgrange.org

Bethlehem Grange provides hope, scholarships By Carol Carpenter President, Bethlehem Grange #137, New York

and Jackie Schrom

The Bethlehem Grange #137 in Selkirk, New York, from time to time, gets donations of all sorts. Some, they pass on to charities; some, they hold onto for their “renew, reuse, recycle” sales. One donation was a bicycle that we put on our sale. An individual who frequents our sales offered to take the bike home telling us he wanted go over it with a finetoothed comb. He said he liked to do this for a hobby. He greased the brakes, cleaned up the chain and adjusted the brake cables. Several of us were overwhelmed with his generosity and told many people of his work. But… the story doesn’t end there. One friend, in particular, knew of a young boy who walked quite a distance to school. One of our members thought that this newly restored bike might be good fit for him. She told the gentleman that refurbished

it the young lad’s plight. Upon hearing the story, the Good Samaritan, in turn, went out and bought a new bike and a gift certificate for a chain-lock and an adjustable helmet from a bike store. Two of our members then presented the bike to the young man. He cried with appreciation and he said he would he would share it with his siblings and his Dad, who walks to work. We sold the refurbished bike. We needed to keep the names and certain other particulars anonymous per request.

collection in the Albany County Fair in

From Seed to Fruition

we fertilized the scholarship fund with

Plants in your garden or your fields all had to start from seed. Ideas can be the same. Once nurtured, they too can become strong and successful. Charles Ryan, Jr. of Bethlehem Grange did just that; he planted his idea. He took his idea of starting a Grange scholarship to the Grange’s Board for discussion. His proposal was to start a scholarship for high school seniors. The board had thought of a scholarship before, but funding and someone to establish it had never materialized. With a unanimous vote of the Grange members, it was off and running. Charles put up his own personal $250 as the seed money; the fund was sprouted.

and family in need.

Photo provided

Once the fair was over, Charles searched for an appropriate market for the collection and found a local farm tractor and implement store owner who just happened to have a passion for antique tractor collections. He purchased the collection in its entirety for $600, and bought a new glass-front display cabinet for it. It is in his business’ office. With Kathy’s permission and blessings, those proceeds. Kathy had told us that “the collection made a ‘full circle’ as each piece of the collection was bought and given to her and her siblings as reward for good grades. The fact that it is being used in a scholarship fund is most appropriate”. She also told us that as a youngster she was once a Granger. In early fall of 2021, the Bethlehem Grange lost a member, Robert Scott Emerich. His family set up a memorial fund for the Grange in his honor, per his request. We were the grateful recipients of $875, which continues to enrich the crop known as our scholarship fund. We discussed, then wrote the details of what the scholarship would entail and this spring, submitted it to the Ravenadepartment for the seniors to access.

hold a series of renew, reuse and

The scholarships are offered for two

recycle sales (glorified garage

graduating seniors at $50 each. One is for

sales). In summer 2021, we had

a student furthering his or her education

a generous donor donate a die-

in the field of agriculture. The second

cast collection of farm tractors

is for a student pursuing studies in

and trucks, that had been in her

community service. They have to submit

family for about 52 years. When

a written essay answering questions on

the donor, Kathy Gill, handed it to

their studies and experiences. We are

Charles, she asked him not to just

looking forward to reading their essays.

sell it for pittance, but hoped that

We are extremely proud that we have

it would bring a good price for the

been able to take the seed of an idea to

Grange’s use.

the fruition in the form of The Bethlehem

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of Show and First Place Ribbons.

Coeymans-Selkirk High School guidance

Each summer, June usually, we

The bicycle that was given to the child

Altamont in August. The booth won Best

first

used

the

entire

GOOD DAY!™ MAGAZINE www.nationalgrange.org

Grange #137 Scholarship Fund.

Leadership Conferences provide education, fun

Attendees at the Great Plains Leadership Conference gather for a photo after a time of fellowship and fun. Over 40 Grange members from across the Great Plains attended the conference in Manhattan, Kansas in June.

By Philip J. Vonada Communications Director Throughout the year, regional Grange conferences are held across the country, in each of our five regions. These conferences are full of educational and leadershipbuilding activities and plenty of Grange fun and fellowship. And all of these conferences are open to all members! This year, the Northeastern conference was cancelled due to high Covid rates, and the former Mid-Atlantic and Southeastern regions were re-combined into the Eastern region. Each regional conference offers a special “flair” of the host region, provides educational workshops, and there’s always plenty of great food and time to meet Grangers from other states - or even your own state! These conferences are also the next-tolast stop for Youth and Juniors hoping to showcase their public speaking or sign-asong at the National Convention, as well as the Grange Baseball trivia contest. If you haven’t been able to attend a regional conference before, here’s a taste of what you’re missing.

Great Plains

great time was had. Highlights included

The Great Plains Leadership Conference

a visit to the Kansas State University Call

was held June 10-12 in Manhattan,

Hall Dairy Bar, a pool party, and a board

Kansas. Kansas State Grange Youth and

game-themed costume party.

Young Adults Director Molly Newman led and organized the conference. With over 40 members from around the Great Plains region in attendance, a

Amid the fun was also some education, with workshops from National Grange staff members Samantha Wilkins, Mandy Bostwick, and Philip Vonada, National Grange Youth Team members Amber Corll and Emma Edelen, and National Junior

Grange

Ambassadors

Cade

Howerton and Ryleigh Hartsell. Workshops included learning about connecting fundraising and membership, “Communications

101,”

the

Junior

Grange agriculture awareness project and the legislative process, and American Sign Language. Attendees worked on the C.A.R.D.S. service project which are provided to members of the armed services to send to their families, learned how to design and sew “Wonky Star” quilt blocks for the National Grange Lecturer’s contest, Youth member Travis Knight (OK) shows off the wonky star quilt

block he created at the Great Plains Leadership Conference.

Photo by Philip Vonada

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GOOD DAY!™ MAGAZINE www.nationalgrange.org

and participated in National Grange Youth contests. The 2023 Great Plains conference will be held in Texas. Due to a tornado (a truly Kansan experience), public speaking and sign-a-

song competitions were cancelled, but

membership, and rural road safety, and

the baseball contest was held.

a service project of creating simple

Grange Baseball Juniors:

backpacks out of pillow cases. It was a fantastic weekend of learning

1st - Bradley Ballenger

and growing the Grange and a fantastic

2nd - Landon Knight

time for fellowship and deepening

3rd - Jayla Shufeldt Youth:

friendships across the region. Due to Covid rates in the early spring,

1st - JackLynn Keeton

the Northeastern conference was not

2nd - Travis Knight Youth Alumni:

held, but members of the Northeast region joined the Eastern conference

1st - Callie Ballenger

and competed in their own round of contests.

Eastern From June 17-19, about 50 Grange members from Massachusetts through Florida gathered at the Eastern Regional Leadership Conference in Washington, DC. For some members, this was their first time in the nation’s capital and visiting the

National

Grange

Headquarters.

The 2023 Eastern conference will be held in North Carolina. The location of the Northeastern conference will be announced at a later date. Eastern Winners:

2nd - Baylor Howerton

seeing the sights and nearby memorials

3rd - Gail Switzer

regional leaders, including the National Grange Youth Leadership Team and National Junior Grange Ambassadors. Workshops and activities included

Medlin, Autumn Whitaker Northeastern Winners: Public Speaking - Impromptu Youth 1st - Desiree Richard Young Adult

Public Speaking - Prepared Youth

1st - Valerie Richard

1st - Asheton Medlin Youth Alumni

Public Speaking - Prepared Youth

1st - Ruth Vonada Ambassadors

1st - Switch Ullucci

1st - Baylor Howerton

for your Grange, and more extensive

2nd - Matthew Settle Young Patrons

leadership workshops on communication,

1st - Gail Switzer

drillwork and building programming

Sign-a-Song - Group

1st - Raegan Hartsell Youth 1st - Bryce Danko

Workshops throughout the weekend

2nd

Midwest From June 24-26, Grangers across the Midwest region joined together for -

Autumn

Whitaker Public

Speaking

Impromputu Juniors

Edelen (IA) explains the rules.

Photo by Gene Edelen

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Conference at the beautiful Spring Valley Bible Camp in Muscatine, Iowa. Iowa State Grange sent teams of Grangers out on Survivor Island to earn the Golden Granger award through

2nd - Cade Howertown

different tasks and games that had to be completed by each team. State leaders from across the region

1st - Asheton Medlin

prepared workshops and demonstrations

2nd - Bryce Danko /

on a variety of topics ranging from

Jacob (tie)

in Survivor-style games. Outstanding Young Patron Emma

the annual Midwest Grange Leadership

1st - Ryleigh Hartsell 3rd - Jose Quinana Youth

At the Midwest Leaders Conference, Grangers took part

conference in June.

1st - Baylor Howerton, Asheton

Grange members took advantage of

were led by National Grange staff and

public speaking contest at the Eastern

Photo by Amanda Brozana Rios

Grange Baseball Juniors

Before and after the conference, many

and monuments.

Switch Ullucci (RI) competes in the

interactive activities to bring into your

3rd - Carter Settle Youth Alumni

Grange Halls to learning how to ‘cut the

1st - Ruth Vonada

Participants in the region took part

2nd - John Hartsell

GOOD DAY!™ MAGAZINE www.nationalgrange.org

cheese.’ in a very competitive game of Grange

Baseball with some of the highest scores we have seen yet. Youth, Young Adults, and Youth Alumni competed for the best of show title in public speaking with Kedrick Gegare from Wisconsin taking the win. Closing out the weekend the Iowa State Grange Chaplain helped us understand setting priorities and how they affect our everyday. A huge thank you to the Iowa State Grange for all their hard work and fun activities that were planned for the weekend! The 2023 Midwestern conference will be held in Wisconsin, co-hosted by Minnesota. Winners in Midwestern contests were: Grange Baseball Youth

Vince Newman, Molly Newman (Kansas State Grange Youth

Director), and National Grange staff members Mandy Bostwick,

1st - Kelly Kindberg

Samantha Wilkins, and Philip Vonada got in on the game-themed

2nd - Rachel Edelen

fun, dressing as “Clue” characters for the dance at the Great

3rd - Jordyn Moyes

Plains Regional Conference.

Public Speaking - Prepared Youth 1st - Kedric Gegare

Photo by Melanie Bostwick

Youth Alumni

Public Speaking - Impromptu Young Adult

1st - Debbie Vine 2nd - Gene Edelen

1st - Samantha Hanson 2nd - Jordyn Moyes

As of the print deadline, the Western Region conference has yet to be held, but a recap and winners will be included in our next issue!

Wisconsin State Grange President Debbie Vine leads

Junior Grange members from Florida take part in

“cut the cheese” at the Midwest Conference.

the Eastern Regional Conference.

participants in a dairy-themed workshop about how to

creating pillowcase backpacks as a service project during Photo by Philip J Vonada

Photo by Gene Edelen

N & V

GOOD DAY!™ MAGAZINE www.nationalgrange.org

Along the Way... The Louis J. Taber Memorial Forest to spend the day in the Hocking Hills region. Their journey Author, The Pennsylvania Rambler was to honor former National www.thepennsylvaniarambler.com Master Louis J. Taber, who held Pennsylvania Grange Member that office from 1923 until 1941. After a church service and a Editor’s Note: This is the first of a new hearty lunch, the group traveled column featuring interesting Grangeto the 50-acre Juvenile (Junior) related sites from around the United States. Grange Cooperative Plantation, Do you know of a location or site that is which was part of the “Louis J. important to Grange history? Email Philip Taber Memorial Forest.” Vonada (pvonada@nationalgrange.org) or The Juvenile Grangers Norman Houser (pennsylvaniarambler@ had planted trees as a living gmail.com) with your idea! memorial to the former National Grange Master. To mark the The entrance to the Louis J. Taber Forest in Wayne The forests of southeastern Ohio spot, a boulder from the Taber Photo in Public Domain provide countless opportunities to explore Farm had been transported to National Forest, Ohio. the wonders of nature. With more than the site and a plaque placed Taber stepped down as National Master 830,000 acres to enjoy nature, Wayne upon it to mark the significance of the to devote more time as a member of the National Forest has over 300 miles of location. National Grange’s Farmers and Traders Life hiking trails, almost 80 miles of horseLouis John Taber was born September Insurance Company. He became chairman riding trails, countless camping spots, and 19, 1878, at Mount Pleasant, Ohio and of the organization in 1955. He would hunting and fishing opportunities. as a youngster moved to Barnesville, pass on October 16, 1960 in Syracuse, While it is easy to get lost in the Ohio. At the age of 14, upon the passing New York, and his body was returned to beauty of nature, it is easy to overlook of his father, Taber would assume the his hometown and buried in the Stillwater the history of the landscape. In 1947, the responsibilities of the family farm. Friends Cemetery in Barnesville. National Grange, in cooperation with the While living in Barnesville, he helped While the Wayne National Forest is still National Forestry Service, designated 200 organize Belmont Grange #889. Taber used daily by countless people enjoying acres within the Wayne National Forest to would rise to the station of Ohio State nature, Taber Forest is a nearly forgotten memorialize Louis J. Taber. Master, but would resign the position piece of both Ohio and National Grange On Sunday, November 16, 1947, a in 1921 when he was appointed Ohio history. The forest which had been planted convoy of charter buses and personal cars State Director of Agriculture. In 1923, as a living memorial to Louis Taber left Columbus, Ohio, and descended upon Taber would assume the responsibilities continues to grow. However, according to the community of Greendale, in Logan of National Master, a position which he an article in The Logan Daily News (May 8, County, bringing with them 150 delegates held for nine terms. Taber was considered 2006) the plaque which once adorned the a pioneer in the conservation boulder from the Taber Farm has vanished. movement, pushing for In talking with the staff of Wayne legislation that would protect National Forest, the exact location of the the soil and forests. Taber Memorial Forest is not clear. The In 1941, with his terms of service as the National Master best clue to where the lost memorial forest closing, a living tribute was is located comes from the November 17, organized for him. “This forest 1841 edition of The Logan Daily News. proclaims the unity of the It states the monument had been placed American way of life. The roots close to the schoolhouse near Greendale. The location of the dedicated forest of freedom grow deepest may be lost and the memorial may be where the soil is good, where gone, but it is still easy to remember Louis childhood is protected.” (The This plaque, formerly marking the Taber Logan Daily News, Logan, John Taber through conservation practices Forest, has since vanished. and also by stepping out and enjoying OH, November 17, 1941). what nature has provided. Photo in Public Domain

By Norman Houser

N & V

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CONNECTING AMERICA’S HEARTLAND Broadband makes the every day possible, creating opportunities for communities. Local broadband providers are investing in and deploying the networks that make precision agriculture possible, linking students to online learning resources and connecting patients to healthcare providers no matter the distance. For millions of Americans, broadband prices are holding steady and falling even as the cost of everyday goods like gas, groceries and rent is forcing families to stretch their income further. This is good news for consumers and our country’s digital future. We salute our nation’s broadband providers for connecting America’s heartland to today’s opportunities and tomorrow’s dreams.

Learn more at USTelecom.org

GRANGE ADVOCACY ADVERTORIAL

Pictured above, (L-R): Jason Williams, CEO, Blackfoot Communications, Montana Darby McCarty, CEO, Smithville Communications, Indiana Rusty Moore, GM, BBT, Texas

The next shortage: Electricity? blame if outages occur. An unfortunate outcome of dealing

By Sean O’Neil

in ideology instead of reality could be the erosion of public

Legislative Assistant

support for clean energy deployment.

A recent assessment of the summer electric grid reliability

According to the 2021 Black & Veatch Electric Report,

by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation shows

the clean energy revolution will involve the proliferation and

the clean energy transition may be getting ahead of the

integration of renewable energy sources. Industry leaders

technologies available to keep the grid reliable.

believe high costs, technological shortfalls and limitations

Just about everything we make, sell, or do depends on

in the transmission infrastructure will hamper domestic

a reliable and affordable supply of electricity. Does it make

renewable energy growth.

sense that this transition must occur consistent with the pace

Renewables have been subject to cost fluctuations

of innovation so that American competitiveness can continue

related to political factors and current events such as supply

to flourish during this evolution?

chain disruptions and tariffs on imports like solar cells and

The electric utility sector does not yet have the tools to

modules from China. Technological shortfalls are the lack of

reliably operate a 100% clean energy grid. Technology and

cost-effective, long-term clean energy storage capabilities

innovation must come first to stimulate the development

to enable seasonal load shifting.

and commercialization of the next generation of power

of the power grid do not allow adequate transmission and

production, energy storage, energy efficiency, carbon capture

distribution of available, low-cost energy to the areas that

and other renewable technologies needed.

need it most. The technologies that will enable a net-zero

In the meantime, we still have to depend on the broad

Infrastructure limitations

emissions economy will include wind and solar generation,

range of resources at our disposal to keep the lights on.

hydropower, geothermal energy, battery energy storage,

For the foreseeable future, fossil-fuel resources are

nuclear power, hydrogen, and technologies that are yet to be

necessary to balance the intermittent output by solar and

created according to the report.

wind. Natural gas has been the backbone of electric sector

In the meantime, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg

carbon emission reduction, but new pipeline construction has

says funding from the bipartisan infrastructure law will help

been blocked by activist groups, as have new transmission

make electric vehicle charging stations as convenient in rural

lines that are essential to meet the increasing demand for

America as gas stations are now. The Energy and Transportation

clean electrical power during this transition.

departments will distribute $5 billion to states over the next

Those who block pipelines and transmission lines bear no

five years for the construction of electric charging stations

responsibility for keeping the lights on, thereby escaping any

across America’s highway network.

Intern spends summer as part of the action Anna Hicks, a rising sophomore studying

Alpha, secretary for the Outdoors Club, and a

politics & international affairs and economics at

campus Title IX Peer Liaison. This upcoming

Furman University, joined the National Grange

year, she looks forward to becoming more

in June as a summer intern working with

involved in The Riley Institute’s Advance Team,

Legislative Assistant Sean O’Neil and Legislative

a group of students who work to foster civil

Director Burton Eller.

discussions about public policy and critical

Anna was born and raised in the northeast

In her free time Anna loves to read, explore

to Greenville, South Carolina to pursue an

the outdoors, and drink excessive amounts of

undergraduate degree at Furman.

coffee.

Since beginning her studies, Anna has Anna Hicks is interning with the National Grange this summer.

Photo by Philip J Vonada

issues on campus.

suburbs of Atlanta, Georgia, before heading

become

heavily

Furman

Grange this summer to learn more about

community. She is a member of the American

agricultural and rural policy as she begins to

Sign Language Club, a member of Zeta Tau

explore a career path in political science.

involved

the

Anna is thrilled to be working with the

GOOD DAY!™ MAGAZINE www.nationalgrange.org

Fire Sale and store updates

JEWELRY

Vintage Hall Dedication Plaques Designed in 1947, these wooden hand-carved

All Past Office (Master, Lecturer,

plaques have felt backing. 11.5”x13”, with

Secretary, and Past Junior Master)

space to add an engraving for your Grange.

pins, and various Degree charms

Limited number available.

and ties bars are on sale!

Sold as-is. $25 each, including shipping. Sesquicentennial Challenge Coin

Member recognition pins are

150th Anniversary 2.25” diameter coin,

available in 5-year increments

emblazoned with the “esto perpetua” logo.

from 5 years through 80 years

Was $25, now $15 plus shipping.

Prices vary.

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.

Own a part of history commemorating the National Grange’s Headquarters in Washington, DC. These limitededition pins are sure to be collector items! Each pin includes a card with details about the Grange Building. Available in bulk at major discounts!

Kelley Farm Challenge Coin Celebrating the 2013 exemplification of the 1873 Degrees at the Kelley Farm. 2.25” brushed nickel coin. On sale: $15.00 + shipping

Lapel / Grange Officer sash pins Buy 3 or more for a discounted

Belt Buckle

price.

Solid pewter with antique finish, fits

Available: E, F, H, L, M, O, P, S

most standard belts. Buy 3 or more to receive a discount.

Effective Immediately, any Grange Supply Store “rush” orders that require expedited arrival (7 days or fewer from time of order) will have a $25.00 expedition fee added to the order, in addition to the shipping fee. This includes any seals, certificates, and membership recognition applications.

Order at www.grangestore.org or call (202) 628-3507 ext. 109 GOOD DAY!™ MAGAZINE

18 ®

www.nationalgrange.org

Is Part-Time Education the Future for Rural College Students? As the definition of a typical college student changes, universities across the country are using creative outreach strategies and flexible coursework options to improve enrollment in rural areas. By Nick Fouriezos Courtesy of The Daily Yonder Two-fifths of college students are 25 or over. And two-fifths work full-time. Nationally, 7.5 million of the nearly 20 million students enrolled in colleges and universities for fall 2020 were going to school part-time. That part-time reality is especially likely to be true in rural regions, where the average student is older, and poorer, and only 1 in 5 adults over 25 have a college degree. That means, for a large number of rural students, higher education means part-time education. We have known that the “typical

Mandy Fulbright of Mountain Home, Idaho is a Boise State student served by

the university’s Community Impact Program (CIP). CIP aims to better serve rural

students by allowing them to enroll and complete courses from their hometowns Photo Credit: Boise State University/YouTube

student” has been trending this way for years. Yet many colleges still focus on degree programs that can take years of full-time study, a serious time hurdle for working adults. Many of them require a litany of premajor courses, and often students see little direct connections between those initial classes and the careers they’re pursuing. That’s often the opposite of what many students are asking for, in the face of mounting student debt, tuition, and living costs. These students want more skills, more training, more flexible education options, and more direct career application. These students are not going away. In

planted roots, there was a 25% to 56% Rural Outreach

increase,” Tromp says.

Marlene Tromp is president of Boise State University in Idaho, where 83% of

Boulder

counties are rural.

offering four-year engineering (and other)

In 2020, Tromp launched the university’s Community

Impact

employees

physically

Program, went

State

started

degrees at smaller, rural, partner campuses, employing a dozen or so instructors to live in those areas as well.

communities — in one case, setting up

Simply showing up makes a difference

shop at a local farm — to ask which degree

in the Rocky Mountain West, where barely

programs would be most useful to them.

half of rural Colorado high school graduates

Boise State used that feedback to develop a hybrid approach that included

enroll in college, and distances between campuses can exceed 100 miles or more.

meeting faculty in person locally and

Still, those types of programs focus on

forming local cohorts while attending

bachelor’s degrees that take years to finish

classes online throughout the semester.

— and the evidence suggests that’s not

of students,” as Arthur Levine, a president

first meetings took place at a local farm —

emeritus of Columbia University’s Teachers

inspired engagement far beyond just those

College, said in a recent roundtable hosted

people in the program.

Are schools actually adapting to their

Colorado

those

fact, they may soon be “the new majority

needs?

and

where

The rural outreach — in one case, the

by the University of Phoenix.

Recently, the University of Colorado-

always a great investment for rural working adults. As economist Richard Vedder writes, only about 36 of every 100 students who

While many rural areas in Idaho saw

enroll will both graduate within six years

steep college enrollment declines during

and earn a job that pays better than

the pandemic, “in those cities where we

someone with a lesser education, such as

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a high school degree.

transfer from institution to institution.

Sure, college graduates do, on net, earn about $350,000 more

That makes it easier for rural students to graduate in less time,

in lifetime earnings after accounting for the “opportunity cost”

saving them money and making it more likely for them to earn

of not immediately entering the workforce and other factors,

certificates that directly lead to employment.

according to Kiplinger.

Plus, a number of state university systems are offering

But the average rural student’s economic profile means they

affordable virtual courses — with tuition costs in the low-hundreds

are more likely to have their college interrupted or derailed by an

— for classes training skills like photography or graphic design, for

unforeseen expense.

example.

Put another way: They are even more likely to not be among the 36 of 100 that make it.

Largely rural states like Arkansas and Louisiana are going an extra step by recently launching databases that make it easy for

Shortening the timeframe may help: 13 pilot institutions, led by the University of Pennsylvania and the University of Minnesota

residents to see what classes they may be able to take without being fully enrolled.

in Rochester, have committed to explore the idea of adding threeyear bachelor’s degrees.

For poorer, older, Americans, whose margin of error is smaller, there is simply a higher cost for being wrong on their big bet on

In Georgia, major hospital networks partnered with various

college.

nursing schools and colleges to streamline dual enrollment programs, so that credits earned in high school would automatically

For them, taking college part-time is a risk management decision — lessening the damage if it doesn’t pan out.

The Economic Potential of the Great American Rail-Trail By Sarah Melotte Courtesy of The Daily Yonder

live within 50 miles of the trail, which is

expected to benefit from the trail because

expected to host 25.6 million trips per

of the increase in recreation-related jobs.

year, increasing visitor spending by $229.4 to

The trail is both bikeable and walkable

million. The conservancy also estimates an

increase visitor spending along the Great

and completely separate from motor

annual tax revenue amounting to over $28

American

vehicle traffic. Because old railroad rights

million.

of way offer wide paths and gentle slopes,

Trail

enthusiasts Rail-Trail

are by

expected $229.4

million

per year with the potential to boost rural

The trail’s direct impact on labor income

economies, according to a new report from

includes things like visitor spending at

a nonpartisan research organization.

local restaurants or gear stores, which is

partnership

with

Headwaters

Economics, the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy

expected to amount to $60.9 million per year. Indirect impacts on labor income

conducted an economic impact analysis

include supply chain boosts and business-

of the Great American Rail-Trail, which

to-business transactions, which is estimated

predicts

local

to generate $23.3 million per year, creating

economies. Nearly 50 million people

a combined $104 million in total labor

significant

boosts

income annually. As the nation’s largest

trails

organization,

the

R a i l s - t o - Tr a i l s Conservancy creates paths along unserviceable railroad

When completed, the trail will span 3,700 miles of the country and 12 states, connecting both urban and rural centers. Starting in Washington, D.C., the rail-trail enters Rock Creek Park, the nation’s oldest urban park on the National Park registry, and ends at the Washington coast along the existing Olympic Discovery Trail. More than 53% of the Great American Rail-Trail is already complete, but the conservancy

must

connect

gaps spanning a total of 1,700 more miles before the project is finished. The conservancy hopes to draw both national and international visitors who wish to enjoy America’s diverse landscapes.

the

economic

and

The analysis was performed using trail

benefits

count data, statistical models, existing

communities.

Rural in

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able to enjoy the trails..

emphasizing social

corridors,

visitors of all skill levels and abilities are

economies

particular

are

GOOD DAY!™ MAGAZINE www.nationalgrange.org

literature

trail

use

characteristics,

and estimates from economic modeling programs.

U.S. Transitions to 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Courtesy of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration On July 16, the U.S. made the transition from the 10-digit National Suicide Prevention Lifeline to 988 – an easy-to-remember threedigit number for 24/7 crisis care. The lifeline, which also links to the Veterans Crisis Line, follows a three-year joint effort by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Federal Communications Commission (FCC), and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to put crisis care more in reach for people in need. This initiative is part of President Biden’s comprehensive strategy to address our nation’s mental health crisis, and is identified by U.S. Health and Human Services Xavier Becerra as a top priority at HHS. Since January 2021, the Biden-Harris Administration has made unprecedented investments to support the 988 transition, investing $432 million to scale crisis center capacity and ensure all Americans have access to help during mental health crises. The National Suicide Hotline Designation Act, signed into law after the passage of bipartisan legislation in 2020, authorized 988 as a new three-digit number for suicide and mental health crisis. All telephone service and text providers in the U.S. and the five major U.S. territories are required by the FCC to activate 988 no later than July 16. “988 is more than a number, it is a message: we’re there for you. Through this and other actions, we are treating mental health as a priority and putting crisis care in reach for more Americans,” said Secretary Becerra, who has been meeting with states across the country about the transition to 988. “There is still much work to do. But what matters is that we’re launching - 988 will be live. We are looking to every governor and every state in the nation to do their part to make this a long-term success.” The Biden-Harris Administration increased federal investments in the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by 18-fold - from $24 million to $432 million - to scale up crisis centers and backup center capacity, and to provide special services, including a sub-network for Spanish language speakers.

The $432 million expansion included $105 million in grant funding to states and territories to improve response rates, increase capacity to meet future demand, and ensure calls initiated in their states or territories are first routed to local, regional, or state crisis call centers. Prior to this investment, the Lifeline, which has existed since 2005, had been long unfunded and under-resourced. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is a network of more than 200 state and local call centers supported by HHS through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

“988 is more than a number, it is a message: we’re there for you.” “Recent investments made in the Lifeline have already resulted in more calls, chats, and texts answered even as volume has increased, but we know that too many people are still experiencing suicidal crisis or mental healthrelated distress without the support they need,” said Dr. Miriam E. Delphin-Rittmon, the HHS Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use and leader of SAMHSA. “Over time, the vision for 988 is to have additional crisis services available in communities across the country, much the way emergency medical services work. The success of 988 depends on our continued partnership with states, as the federal government cannot do this alone.” FCC staff first proposed 988 in a report to Congress in August 2019 as the nationwide, easy-to-remember, 3-digit dialing code for individuals in crisis to connect to suicide prevention and mental health crisis counselors with the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. On July 16, 2020, the FCC adopted rules designating 988 for this purpose. Recognizing the need to better support at-risk communities in crisis, including youth and individuals with disabilities, the FCC adopted additional rules in November 2021 to expand access to this important service by establishing the ability to also text 988.

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“All across our country, people are hurting They need help. The good news is that getting that help just got a lot easier... 988 will be available nationwide for individuals in crisis, and their loved ones, to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline more easily,” said FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel. “This cross-government effort has been years in the making and comes at a crucial point to help address the mental health crisis in our country, especially for our young people.” VA administers the Veterans Crisis Line through the Lifeline’s national network. Because of VA’s partnership with the Lifeline, the Veterans Crisis Line is affected by this transition to a new number. Veterans and their loved ones can now Dial 988 then Press 1 to reach the Veterans Crisis Line. “988 has been a long time coming and will serve as a critical resource during a crisis when every second counts. The new, shorter number will help ensure Veterans have easier access to the Veterans Crisis Line,” said VA Secretary Denis McDonough. “This launch is a whole-of-government approach in line with the President’s call to prioritize mental health by strengthening access to crisis services, and preventing Veteran suicide, our top clinical priority.” In 2021, the Lifeline received 3.6 million calls, chats, and texts. That number is expected to at least double within the first full year after the 988 transition. The U.S. had one death by suicide every 11 minutes in 2020, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Suicide was the second leading cause of death for young people aged 10-14 and 25-34. From April 2020 to 2021, more than 100,000 people died from drug overdoses. Studies have shown that after speaking with a trained crisis counselor, most Lifeline callers are significantly more likely to feel less depressed, less suicidal, less overwhelmed, and more hopeful. The 10-digit Lifeline number 1-800-273TALK (8255) will continue to be operational and will route calls to 988 indefinitely. Veterans, service members, and their families can also still reach the Veterans Crisis Line with the current phone number 1-800-273-8255 and Press 1, or by chat or text to 838255.

As biopharmaceutical researchers keep searching for breakthrough cures they don’t have to look far for inspiration. In this new era of medicine, where breakthroughs are transforming prevention and treatment options, PhRMA is committed to fixing America’s health care system the right way.

www.Innovation.org

Trading skepticism for support: How parents can support kids with thinking and learning differences child’s ability to thrive, and the ‘Be the Reason’ campaign is a step to

Courtesy of Brandpoint

provide parents with tools to help them and their kids get there.” One in five kids - nearly 70 million Americans - have learning or thinking differences (LTDs), like ADHD or dyslexia. While LTDs are

If your child has or may have a learning or thinking difference,

common among families, friends, neighbors and peers, new research

here are some important steps you can take, according to Kahn and

from Understood.org, a guide and resource for people with LTDs, finds

Understood:

that there are still harmful stigmas associated with them - stigmas that often negatively impact children’s mental health and prevent parents from taking steps to get their child proper support. According to Understood’s “Neurodiversity and Stigma Study,” 90% of parents believe there are children with LTDs, yet more than half (55%) of those with neurodivergent children say they are afraid to tell others about their child’s LTD because of associated biases. Additionally, 69% of parents of kids with LTDs say that these stigmas negatively impact their child’s mental well-being. This is why Understood launched the “Be the Reason” campaign - to increase awareness and engagement of parents around neurodiversity. Parents can get involved by participating in the #YouCanBeTheReason

1) Talk with your child The most important step is engaging with your child and making sure they know you’re ready to help. To get a better sense of the challenges they’re experiencing, try asking open-ended questions like: “What made you laugh today? What was the peak and pit of your day?” These questions will give you a better sense of what your child is feeling and why. You can also use a feelings wheel, which helps kids make connections between feelings, body sensations and words, and helps kids express their emotions. 2) Engage teachers and caregivers

social media challenge, led by social media influencers the Holderness

Proactively engaging with your child’s teachers and other

Family, and share how they’ve been the reason their child thrives. The

caregivers, such as pediatricians, coaches and tutors, will help you get

campaign also includes a short film and stories from the perspectives

a 360-degree view of what your child may be experiencing at home,

of children with LTDs, as well as an activity kit to help parents initiate

school and in other activities.

conversations with their children.

These conversations also allow for collaboration with other

“When parents engage with their kids around their emotional and

caregivers to ensure your child gets appropriate support. There are

academic challenges, particularly if they believe the challenges may

many accommodations that can be made at school - like additional

be related to a learning difference, it can be incredibly powerful,”

time for tasks or sensory tools - to support your child’s emotional and

said Dr. Andy Kahn, a licensed psychologist and Understood expert

academic development.

specializing in LTDs. “Parent support has an enormous impact on a

3) Practice self-calming strategies LTDs affect your child academically, emotionally and socially. Things like deep breathing, stretching and yoga can help kids calm their bodies, become more aware of how they feel and manage their emotions. In moments of high stress, help your child pause and “scan” their body from head to toe, checking for signs of tension, pain or discomfort. Being able to identify and acknowledge the physical effects of stress and sadness is a first step to releasing them. If you’re a parent looking for more tips and resources, visit the “Be the Reason” campaign website, and be sure to participate in the #YouCanBeTheReason social media challenge across TikTok, Instagram and Facebook. To learn more about symptoms of LTDs, visit understood.org/take-note.

GOOD DAY!™ MAGAZINE www.nationalgrange.org

Extend fellowship beyond the doors of your Hall By Amanda Brozana Rios

Fellowship for the present and future

Membership and Leadership Development Director

Every Grange and every community is

it’s easier for your members to “vet” them to

different, but a simple resolve to increase

see if they’re a good fit for membership when

and improve fellowship opportunities can

they’re just getting to know one another and

be made by every Grange today. To show

hang out in a social situation.

“For in our fraternity, there is work for

they finally attend a Grange meeting. Plus,

how easy it is for any Grange – regardless

Moreover, if you’re wondering what your

of size, age of members, budget, and other

community wants out of your Grange and

Yet, the Grange is not just for work. It is

factors – a list of suggestions for fellowship

what would motivate someone to join,

a “social order” that reminds its members

opportunities and tips is included in this

inviting a prospective member to a social

to “avoid intemperance in… work and

article.

event will get that conversation going without

all…” So we learn in the First Degree.

The focus here is on what you can do

much prodding. What are they suggesting

As new members take part in the

that requires little or no planning/work, and

the Grange could focus on with service

welcoming ceremony, they hear they can

requires little of your members beyond

projects or outreach? What programs could

“expect from this Grange fellowship” first,

“showing up.” This is meant to encourage

you offer to pique their interests and answer

before the President goes on to say they will

fellowship opportunities with fun at the heart

their questions? You may find so much more

have “a chance to explore and develop to

- there’s more than enough work to do later,

benefit than just getting to spend some

[their] highest potential and the opportunity

and of course, at any gathering of Grangers

quality time with friends and fellow Grangers

to serve.”

you’ll find lots of discussion about a next big

by adding fellowship opportunities into your

event, project or initiative.

routine.

recreation” at the close of every meeting.

We know our founders and leaders over the past 155 years took great pride in writing

Don’t forget, these events are a great way

If you’re thinking “why would someone

the ritual work of the Grange with precision,

to introduce people you think might make

come hang out with us,” the same applies

so it is not a stretch to believe that these three

great Grange members to your membership

with “why would someone join our Grange?”

“expectations” were written in the order they

and make them more comfortable when

If you don’t enjoy one another socially, how

felt was most important. How is your Grange doing with that important balance of doing good for others while being good for your members and their social needs? How often does your membership get together outside of meetings and activities that support the service, operations and maintenance of your Grange and its property to just enjoy the company of one another – to meet the expectation of fellowship? If the answer is “not often” or “never,” your Grange – regardless of how successful it may be in other ways – is failing at one of its core objectives. With all the challenges Granges can identify, improving our fellowship focus is one of the easiest – and potentially the most meaningful – we can make to improve the Grange experience for those who have already joined, whether they remain active or not, and those who may be welcomed in the near future.

Editorial Illustration

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can you expect someone new to choose to spend their time working with this group and learning all kinds of new and strange things from them. This list is by no means exhaustive, but hopefully helps you to think of what would work for your group. Fellowship ideas •

Go out for ice cream

•

Walk around a local arts festival

•

Hold an impromptu mini golf competition

•

Go pumpkin picking

•

Invite the Grange over for a board game night

•

Take yourselves out to the ballgame (major league or Little

A Gathering of Patrons Share a photo or two and caption of no more than 75 words from your Grange fellowship opportunity with us and you may see it on our social media channels or in an upcoming edition of Good Day! or the weekly email newsletter The Patrons Chain. Submit to pvonada@nationalgrange.org (Subject: Patrons Gather) or post to social media and use the hashtag #patronsgather so we can find and share!

Don’t be afraid to decide on short notice. You don’t have to have the

League - it’s all a good time) •

Attend a Farm-to-Table (or other) dinner at a local restaurant

•

Go to a movie together

•

Weekend getaway at a nearby camp

•

Spend the day at an amusement park

•

Tailgate together before a Friday night football game

•

Lawn games and backyard barbecue

•

Head to the fair for youth livestock showing or auction night

event planned months in advance. You could decide on Wednesday that you’d like to invite everyone to a pool party at your house on Saturday, and that’s ok! Make the mundane and must-do’s fun by adding fellowship. Have a group of young parents in your Grange? They’ll all have “school shopping” on their to-do list in August. Why not go together? Let the calendar be your guide. You can use special days/months (like Dairy Month or Pizza Day) to help you come up with ideas.

and cheer on the kids (and future members)

Laugh out loud and be silly. Nothing says Grangers can’t show that they’re having fun when they’re together. Don’t let your outings create or reinforce cliques. Make sure

•

Have a pool party at a member’s house

•

Visit a new exhibit at a local museum

•

See a peformance at the community theatre or high school

•

Go to BINGO night together

•

Meet at a park and take a leisurely walk or bike ride

•

Make a team and play in a local noncompetitive league

everyone is invited and there are a variety of interests and times/days represented in what you organize. Everyone should feel welcome to offer invitations to the group. Consider creating an “unofficial social committee” or “fellowship committee” who can coordinate getting the word out about opportunities and invitations but make sure everyone in the Grange

(volleyball, kickball, darts, etc.)

feels empowered to contribute to the calendar or list of ideas.

After you identify some possible fellowship opportunities, think of how you can make it most successful and how you can implement a focus on fellowship in your Grange that will excite all of your members. Here are a few tips.

Don’t forget to support your members and their families. If someone’s grandson is in a championship Little League tournament, your support will be meaningful to your member and their family - all prospective members who likely already have some understanding and appreciation of the Grange.

Tips for Fellowship Opportunities Make them casual. Make sure folks know if they can’t come or aren’t interested, it’s OK. Include the whole family - even the ones that haven’t joined yet. On that same vein, don’t forget to invite friends and neighbors you think may be good Grangers. Also remember to reach out and invite members you haven’t seen in a while. Post about it! Tell others the fun you’re having with your Grange family at these impromptu/casual events to show Grange is not just all work and no play. Be proud. Wear your Grange gear and identify as a group of

A Final Note Just because these fellowship opportunities focus on fun doesn’t mean work and service can’t grow from them. Think of the pumpkin picking idea - a few members could then volunteer to take extra pumpkins and make pie filling that could be sold as a fundraiser for your Grange or be made into pies that could be given to shut-ins or struggling families around the holidays. There are an unimaginable number of possibilities to blend our desire to serve with our social inclinations. Striking the balance can make the Grange exciting again for members who may have fallen away and make it the perfect fit for so many more people in your area.

Grangers. Let your community know you’re more than just a building or a “secret society.”

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Food Safety at Fairs By STOP Foodborne Illness www.stopfoodborneillness.com

Across the country during the summer, fairs and festivals occur almost every weekend. Visitors attend to enjoy the rides and games, visit the petting zoo, and eat a variety of unique local foods. This is an exciting time for community Granges who participate in these annual events. Stop Foodborne Illness (STOP), a national, public health nonprofit, wants fairgoers to enjoy these events while keeping food safety in mind. Foodborne illness, or food poisoning (sometimes mistakenly called ‘stomach flu’), is caused when harmful germs (bacteria, parasites, viruses) get into food or beverages and grow. You can’t see, smell or taste them but your body knows they are there. Since they can be harmful to you, your body tries to get rid of them. That’s why common symptoms of food poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, and chills. To avoid foodborne illness, it’s crucial to follow

safety practices that keep your food safe. Foodborne outbreaks, when many people get sick, often occur at fairs when guests interact with animals and then handle food without washing their hands. These days, you are likely to find readily available handwashing stations at the fair. Wash your hands after going on rides, changing diapers, using the toilet, and before AND after eating. When interacting with any animals (at the petting zoo, on the farm, or at home), always remember to wash your hands. Being mindful of the location of petting pens, restrooms and porta-potties may seem like a silly idea, but even healthy animals carry germs that can cause human illness, so it is important to proceed with caution. If a food vendor is close to one of these locations, the wind could carry dangerous germs into nearby food. You can reduce your risk of foodborne illness by consuming food and drinks away from barns and other animal confines. Key food safety items to watch out for when you are buying food from a vendor at the fair: •

Vendors should use tongs and wear gloves to reduce the risk of

contamination. •

Ideally, food and cash should be handled by different people.

•

Hot food should be kept hot, not warm.

•

Cold food should be kept cold either by being on ice or with a

refrigerator. •

Are workers taking steps to reduce unintentionally transferring

germs from one object or food item to another (cross-contamination)? •

Raw meats must be handled carefully. Check it out: Is the raw

meat handler handling the buns too? Is raw meat being kept separate from cooked foods and fresh produce? •

Is there a place for workers to wash their hands with soap and

water? Everyone has a role in food safety! Food vendors should keep consumers safe while consumers should wash their hands and know what safe cooking, holding, serving and storing looks like. Photo by John Matychuk on Unsplash

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Grayson’s story For one parent’s perspective, STOP has worked with the parents of Grayson Dunham to educate others about E. coli, a deadly bacterium. The following are excerpts from his story: August 9th, 2016 was a typical Tuesday for us. My 2-year-old son, Grayson, and I were home doing our regular mom and child routine: living life loving on each other, playing a game or two, learning something new, taking a nap, and fixing dinner while waiting for Daddy to get home. Little did we know that on August 10th our world would be turned upside down. The doctors had a hard time determining a diagnosis. First, we were told it could be intussusception, a condition in which the intestines fold into themselves and cut off blood supply to affected parts. Then, they said it may be Henoch-Schönlein Purpura, which causes inflammation of the blood vessels. With no definitive diagnosis, we watched our sick son get worse by the minute. Brent and I were extremely scared and frustrated. Next came another diagnosis: Hemolytic

uremic syndrome (HUS), a serious, lifethreatening kidney disease. At this time, we also got word from [the hospital] that his stool sample had tested positive for E. coli. We later learned from our state’s board of health that it was a Shiga toxin-producing strain—one of the deadliest types. Our hearts sank. ...Unfortunately, we don’t know where Grayson contracted his E. coli infection. It could have come from an animal or food, but we aren’t sure. In the days leading up to his illness, we visited our state fair where we were around animals, ate at a few restaurants, and enjoyed food prepared at our home, too. So, it’s very hard to say just where the infection originated.

For more food safety information and to read Grayson’s story visit: www.stopfoodborneillness.org .

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5 ways parents can interest kids in STEM at home Courtesy of Brandpoint Did you know that there are simple, fun, everyday activities you can do with your kids to foster curiosity and interest in STEM (science, technology, engineering and math)? If you want your school-aged kids to be more engaged in these crucial educational subjects, the good news is that there are plenty of ways to support your children in learning. These activities are not only fun for kids of many ages and stages, but they will help introduce key principles needed to build a strong base for STEM education. 1. Build something together Making something by hand is a fantastic learning opportunity for kids, bolstering their understanding of engineering, physics and math. Even a simple project like a birdhouse, bookshelf or wind chimes teaches the importance of careful planning, why they need to measure accurately and the basics of construction - principles best learned handson. Plenty of ideas for simple projects can be found online or with an easy-to-use kit. 2. Reach new heights Kids love toys involving motion, and there’s no better way to encounter principles of physics like velocity, momentum and gravity than with a high-quality marble run. If you want to build higher and race faster, the GraviTrax PRO Vertical Starter Set from Ravensburger is full of opportunities for complex problemsolving and experimentation - as a solo activity or with the whole family. Kids 8 and up (and parents!) will find this set fun and challenging. The GraviTrax PRO set offers multiple new ways to build higher and learn more about gravity. Kids can experiment with altering the speed of the marbles as they careen around curves and zoom down tracks. The complexity of what kids build will change as they get older, and with trial and error as they use the set. Even better - you can use the GraviTrax PRO set with any other GraviTrax product or accessories for endless combinations and exploration.

3. Bake up a chemistry experiment Cooking and baking involves STEM principles including math, chemistry, biology and agriculture. Next time you’re making cookies or cake, take the opportunity to discuss common chemical reactions as your kids measure and mix. Here are a few common baking reactions to get you started: • Caramelization and browning • Water evaporation • Expanding gases • Protein coagulation • Enzyme reactions You could talk about each ingredient’s chemical composition, its role in the process and discuss how it affects the results. Skip an ingredient or measure incorrectly, and the cake may not rise or becomes too dense. Flour and eggs contain proteins that help bond ingredients together. The gluten in flour helps create the cake’s structure. Sugar caramelizes and tenderizes, while milk or water provide moisture. Leavening agents such as baking powder and baking soda react with acidic and alkaline ingredients to release carbon dioxide into the batter - helping cakes expand and rise. Encourage observation and questions while you bake together.

grow. What does a seed need to grow and

4. Get your hands dirty Kids learn a lot about science through gardening and many love to watch things

encourage an interest in STEM learning.

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become a plant? If you don’t have space (or time) to create an outdoor garden, an indoor gardening kit can help you get started. Spending time together outdoors involves biological principles like photosynthesis and the life cycle of plants and animals. You can help your children observe the plants, birds and wildlife and answer questions about the different animal behaviors. 5. The sky’s the limit Making toys that fly and watching toys fly can be endlessly fascinating for kids. Those activities also provide an entry point to teach them about physics principles like aerodynamics, lift and drag. Start by creating simple paper airplanes, and ask why some designs fly better than others. Try flying a homemade or store-bought kite together. Which kind of design works better? How does the kite respond to the wind, and what keeps it afloat? Watching clouds, birds and airplanes can also pique kids’ curiosity, and may lead to an interest in engineering, physics or space travel. You don’t have to be an expert to All it takes is a curious mind and looking at everyday activities in a whole new way.

Foundation and Education: You can be our PAL winner By Joan C. Smith Grange Foundation Board Chair Wow! Our Virtual Telethon was fabulous! What a great day in July it was for all who participated in, watched live or viewed on National Grange Facebook or YouTube. Samantha, Mandy, Phil, and Stephanie did an outstanding job bringing their enthusiasm, energy, leadership and organizational skills to make this a success. You inspired us all again this year with this second Virtual Telethon and raised over $24,000 to support your programs. Your Foundation, Sponsors, Grangers, and Granges thank the team immensely for the event. If you were not able to join us on 9 July, you can view this event on the National Grange Facebook page or our YouTube page. Your Foundation Board sends gratitude to all the Grangers, Granges, Sponsors, members and friends who participated in and donated to our Junior and Youth programs. With your help, the Grange you love and the memories you made can now be discovered and created by young folks nationwide Foundation Partnership with National Agriculture in the Classroom During the Telethon, I did a segment on another area that the Foundation supports which is agricultural education for Pre K-12 students across the nation. Many Grangers are involved in this effort as volunteers who offer their time and energy by entering the classroom

and assisting teachers by reading books, opening up their farm or ranch for school children to visit, creating and entering agricultural displays at State and County Fairs, or showing animals as part of 4-H, FFA, or Grange Fairs. All these activities introduce or enhance a child’s knowledge of agriculture. In support of the Grange Foundation Mission Statement “…promote agriculture education and research…”, we have joined in a partnership with National Agriculture in the Classroom (NAITC). The mission of Agriculture in the Classroom is to “increase agricultural literacy through K-12 education.” An agriculturally literate person is defined as “one who understands and can communicate the source and value of agriculture as it affects our quality of life.” Agriculture in the Classroom (AITC) programs aim to improve student achievement by applying authentic, agricultural-based content as the context to teach core curriculum concepts in science, social studies, language arts and nutrition. By encouraging teachers to embed agriculture into their classroom, AITC cultivates an understanding and appreciation of the food and fiber system that we all rely on every day. AITC’s vision that “agriculture is valued by all” is unique within the agricultural education community and positions itself as the lead organization to serve the full spectrum of K-12 formal education. A few Grangers/Granges are so involved that they are directly part of the National Agriculture in the Classroom

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( N A I T C ) non-profit organization. P o t o m a c Grange #1 is the Program Leader for DC Ag in the Classroom in Wa s h i n g t o n , DC; the Maine State Program Leader for MAITC is a Granger; a Washington State Grange Executive Committee member is on the WAITC Board. I am sure there are many others involved in this very worthwhile program which fits directly with our Grange and Foundation Mission Statement. Let me know who you are so we can share ag educational ideas that work in your area to bring agriculture closer to students. USDA-NIFA (National Institute of Food and Agriculture) partially funds NAITC, which encourages teachers to embed agriculture into their classroom, AITC cultivates an understanding and appreciation of the food and fiber system that we all rely on every day. AITC is unique within the agricultural education community as the lead organization to serve the full spectrum of K-12 formal education. Your Foundation believes that every child should be exposed to agricultural knowledge which can be through a book, a craft, playing, planting, a visit to a farm, dairy, ranch, or greenhouse, or showing a video. Where does their food come from - how does it grow and happen? It does not come from the grocery store, it is presented/available at the grocery store. You can see why we are partnered with this organization. It is amazing when you can spark interest in the eyes and minds of a child. It makes you smile and your heart warm. You may influence them on their future career path - Get Involved.

Partnership in Agricultural Literacy Award Criteria

Partnership in Agricultural Literacy Award In support of school and agriculture education/ Potential nominees for the PAL Award need to promote grades research, the Grange Foundation has joined PreK-12 educational experiences in and through agriculture by in partnership with NAITC as a Sponsor of the “Partnership in Agricultural Literacy Award” (PAL). addressing one or more of the following themes of the NAITC This sponsorship has existed for approximately 16 and the Grange Foundation: years. - Agriculture and the Environment Last year, the Award criteria was modified - Plants and Animals for Food, Fiber & Energy to enable volunteer groups/organizations like a - Food, Health & Lifestyle Grange, Kiwanis, Lions or 4-H to be nominated, as - Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM) well as an individual who volunteers to expand the - Culture, Society, Economy, and Geography mind of a child. This award celebrates the best in agricultural literacy efforts, recognizing individuals, organizations, programs, and events that embody innovation and National Grange “Partnership in Agricultural Literacy” award advancement in agricultural literacy from PreK-12 students. winner, Ms. Shae Devers, NM, FFA Advisor and two of her It recognizes excellence in agricultural literacy partnerships students from the FFA Valencia High School Chapter in New with a school/teacher, innovative solutions to challenges, and Mexico. outstanding programs and events that increase agricultural The FFA President, Colton Ash, and Vice President Elian literacy in participants. Estrada, provided us with their personal views of the joy of Some of you reading this are doing these types of things sharing their love of agriculture with elementary school boys today for the students in your area. Go to the Grange and girls. Both young men will be seniors this year and plan Foundation website (www.grangefoundation.org) and you will on providing their agricultural program to 80 classrooms this find the PAL Nomination form which must be submitted 20 coming year. Go to www.grangefoundation.org or the Grange February 2023. Foundation YouTube Channel to see a video of what their FFA The selected winner/group receives a $500 honorarium and Chapter accomplished. Thank you gentlemen for joining the up to $1,500 in approved expenses for a group or individuals Telethon and sharing your experiences with us. to attend the NAITC Conference held annually in late June, Ms. Devers and her Valencia FFA chapter won the award for with 2023 being June 27-30 in Orlando, Florida, and in Salt their dedication and efforts in a collaborative project with New Lake City, Utah in 2024. . Mexico Agriculture in the Classroom program. Valencia FFA During the Telethon, I had as my guest the NAITC 2022 members attended training sessions with New Mexico AITC program leaders and then scheduled programs in local elementary school classrooms to present agricultural literacy lessons based on the book “First Peas to the Table,” using standards-based agriculture in the classroom lessons and sharing their own FFA experiences. The six-part project uses props the students bring to showcase their FFA opportunities and connections to local agriculture. In 2021 the chapter members presented to 32 classes and more than 650 students.

During the Grange Foundation Virtual Telethon on July 9th, Grange Foundation

Board Chair Joan C. Smith (left) invited Valencia FFA students Eliana Estrada and Colton Ash as guests to discuss the Partnership in Agricultural Literacy Award.

Screenshot via YouTube

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Get Involved in Agricultural Literacy Have you ever thought about tying your “Words for Thirds” program to sharing some agricultural education experience while you are with the students or in a follow-up visit?

Some of the dictionaries available have a section with pictures of animals and some show different plant species and trees which the student can then find local examples to identify. You may want to investigate those various dictionary options for next year. What about doing a craft on Wool Spinning or Cotton Ginning? Or “How Long Does it take to Make a Pizza” or “Farming in a Glove”? The NAITC Store (www.agclassroomstore.org) has kits available for a fee with enough supplies for 35 students, and the lessons and approved NAITC Curriculum Matrix to go with them, so you can learn yourself and then present to students. Your local teacher would be so grateful for your assistance. Grange Foundation provided five of these crafts/lessons at the 2019 Grange Revival in Ozark, Arkansas, where many Juniors, youth and adults participated; three lessons/crafts during Washington DC Experience in 2020 and 2022; and two as part of the Eastern Region Leadership Conference 2022, to name a few. An agriculturally-literate person is defined as “one who understands and can communicate the source and value of agriculture as it affects quality of life.” Every Granger can do that, so volunteer in your local schools, assist that teacher. You

Did you know... • It takes about 40 gallons of maple sap to make one gallon of syrup • Wool fabrics provide natural UV protection from the sun • A strawberry is not an actual berry, but a banana is • The average American farmer today provides food for about 165 people in the world • The majority (73%) of all farm workers in the US were not born in the United States • Brazil and the United States together produce 87% of the ethanol in the world • Wheat is by far the world’s largest and most widely cultivated food crop: one-seventh (14%) of all farmland around the world is used for growing wheat

can also use these resources for a Lecturer’s program or provide a session at your Senior Citizen Center, Garden Club, Church, YMCA, etc. Everyone needs Agricultural Literacy. Agriculture is valued by us all.

Virtual Telethon raises over $24,000 to support Youth, Junior programming By Philip J Vonada Communications Director

donations didn’t stop there! As of July 22, $24,707.85 has been donated or pledged to the Foundation. The raised funds will

we cannot say thank you enough!” If you would like to support the Junior and Youth Departments through the

In early 2021, National Grange Junior

be divided between the Youth and Junior

and Youth Directors Samantha Wilkins and

Funds at the Grange Foundation, which

Grange Foundation, donations can be

Mandy Bostwick pitched a “wild” idea to

will help support programs and events like

accepted through grangefoundation.org.

the National Grange President and Grange

the DC Experience,

Foundation - a “Virtual Telethon” to raise money to assist their departments in reaching out to children, youth, and young adults across the country. The first Virtual Telethon in June 2021 was a great success, raising over $23,000 to be split between the Grange Foundation’ Youth and Junior funds. This year’s Virtual Telethon was held on July 9. Wilkins and Bostwick again

Youth Officer Council, Trimble

Legislative

Experience, Junior and Youth

Ambassadors,

and much more. “We

are

very

grateful

for

your

support,”

Wilkins

said. “To the donors and

sponsors,

the

people who submitted

set a $20,000 goal to raise during the

testimonies

8-hour event, which was livestreamed

talents, and everyone

on Facebook and YouTube. During the

who

final hour, the $20,000 was met - and the

Telethon

and

made

this

Staff members Philip Vonada, Samantha Wilkins, and Mandy Bostwick, with guests Karie Blasingame and Joan C. Smith, celebrate at the end of the Telethon on July 9th.

possible...

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Screenshot via YouTube

Thank you for helping us succeed!

OUR SPONSORS Oliver Hudson Kelley Level Betsy Huber (PA) Potomac Grange #1 (DC) William Saunders Level Duane & Chris Hamp (WA) Illinois State Grange New Jersey State Grange David Peck (CT) Joan C. Smith (DC) Clay & Linda Snyder (PA) Mike Warner (CA) William Ireland Level Kansas State Grange Oregon State Grange Aaron Grosh Level Ohio Junior Grange Valley Grange #1360 (PA) John Thompson Level Eagle Grange #1 (PA) Judy Sherrod (TN) OUR DONORS Anonymous (4) Jane Adams (PA) Rebecca Anzueto (MD) Dana Bailey (OK) Lois Barber (KS) Jen Beamon (PA) Robert Beamon (PA) Lurae & Mark Benzio (PA) Ann Bercher (MN) Katherine Blasingame (IL) Douglas Bonsall (PA) Lillian & Bill Booth (CA) William Booth (CA) Keith Bostwick (AZ) Mandy Bostwick (KS) Roger Bostwick (KS) Wayne & Debbie Campbell (PA) Emalee Colver (IL) Jennifer Cox (OH) Steve Coye (NY) Bruce & Sharon Croucher (NY) Mike Davis (PA)

Jamie & Julie Durand (KS) The Edelen Family (IA) Tricia Eidsmoe (MI) Katie Fallon (NY) Janet Fishovitz (PA) Lorri Freeman (NV) Kimberly Fulmer (PA) Debbie Gegare (WI) Roland Giguere (MA) Joe Goodrich (VT) Cindy & Harry Greer (CO) Tom Gwin (WA) Walter Hartley (RI) Elizabeth Hiner (HI) Steven Hood (CA) Charles Howerton (NC) Andrew Huber (PA) Richard & Eileen Javaux (ID) Jefferson Grange #1384 (PA) Marilyn Johnson (MT) Tracey Jones (MO) Jonesboro Grange #357 (ME) Theresa Kane (MA) Kansas State Grange Youth The Knight Family (OK) La Plata Pomona Grange #10 (CO) Paula Lohrman (IN) Penny & Smokey Martin (TX) Massachusetts State Grange Youth Vonnie Meritt (OK) Chip & Barbara Narvel (DE) Jenn Nauss (PA) New York State Grange Youth Kimber Newman (KS) Susan & Mark Noah (OR) Ohio State Grange Joyce Parker (OR) Pennsylvania Junior Grange Letitia Pickering (NY) Brittney & Jonny Pittman (WA) John Plank (IN) Pete Pompper (SC) Prairie Grange #1832 (IL) Bob Quist (MN) William Reed (OH) The Reyburn Family (PA) Riverton Grange #169 (CT) Dave Roberts (CT) Lynette Schaeffer (IL) Scrubgrass Grange 31705 (PA) Jay Sexton (OR) Billy & Lena Shufeldt (OK) Debra Smith (WA) St. John’s Grange #729 (NC)

Martha Stefenoni (CA) Gail Switzer (PA) James Taylor (VA) Codi Titus (WA) Robert & Jane Trombi (NH) Randy Turnquist (CA) Unionport Community Grange #2728 (OH) Philip J Vonada (PA) Ruth Vonada (PA) Ellen Wadsworth (PA) Washington State Grange GROW Club Christina Webster (CA) Sarah Weiss (PA) Samantha Wilkins (PA) In honor of... Alabama Alaska Georgia Kentucky Louisiana Mississippi New Mexico North Dakota South Dakota Utah West Virginia Wyoming OUR TALENT Savannah Beamon (PA) Ann Bercher (MN) Roger Bostwick (KS) Abigail and Christopher Casseday (OH) Amber Corll (OH) Abby Cox (OH) Kaylee Cox (OH) Emma Edelen (IA) Samantha Hanson (IA) Raegan Hartsell (NC) Ryleigh Hartsell (NC) Baylor Howerton (NC) Savannah Fens (VA) Casey Giguere (MA) Elsa Kehs (PA) Amilya Lloyd (OH) Kimber Newman (KS) Ohio Junior Grange Camp Leah Overstreet (TX) Rosalie Mendoza Pena (TX) Pennsylvania Junior Grange Camp Gayle Reyburn (PA)

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Kay Reyburn (PA) Ruby Reyburn (PA) Cole Settle (NC) Philip Vonada (PA) THOSE WHO PROVIDED TESTIMONIES Barbara Borderieux (FL) Melanie Bostwick (KS) Wayne Campbell (PA) Abigail & Christopher Casseday (OH) Amber Corll (OH) James Correll (DE) Diego Hernandez (FL) Ryleigh Hartsell (NC) Cade Howerton (NC) Charles Howerton (NC) Donna Keeton (OK) Amilya Lloyd (OH) Jenn Nauss (PA) Kimber Newman (KS) Molly Newman (KS) Dave Roberts (CT) Lynette Schaeffer (IL) Cole Settle (NC) Judy Sherrod (TN) Gail Switzer (PA) James Taylor (VA) LIVE INTERVIEWEES Colton Ash (Valencia FFA) Karie Blasingame (IL) Lillian Booth (CA) Amanda Brozana Rios (PA) Elian Estrada (Valencia FFA) Chris Hamp (WA) Ohio Junior Grange Camp Joan Smith (DC) Clay Snyder (PA) Martha Stefenoni (CA) SPECIAL THANKS Ann Bercher Mandy Bostwick Burton Eller Betsy Huber Sean O’Neal Visit Reno Philip Vonada Jeff Wetzel Samantha Wilkins Stephanie Wilkins

Honoring THE BUILDERS OF OUR

MEMBERSHIP ANNIVERSARIES

L egacy

85 YEARS CONTINUOUS MEMBERSHIP

50 YEARS CONTINUOUS MEMBERSHIP

Maine • Madelyn Creamer, Willow #366

Connecticut • Laurie Berki, Beacon Valley #103 • Dorothy Czikowski, Lyme #147 • Charles Monte, Lyme #147 • Rose Rossignol, Beacon Valley #103 • Steven Rossignol, Beacon Valley #103 • Marilyn Ventura, Beacon Valley #103

80 YEARS CONTINUOUS MEMBERSHIP Ohio • Lois Jean Eckart, Bath #1331 Washington • Lorraine Mills, Happy Valley #322

75 YEARS CONTINUOUS MEMBERSHIP

Illinois • Collen Brown, Hopewell #1747 • Mark Purcell, Hopewell #1747 • Debra Wade, Hopewell #1747

Connecticut • Barbara Stott, Ekonk Community #89

Indiana • Gregg Holley, Indian Trail #2361

•

Ruth Young, Lyme #147

Maine • Norman Hunt, Willow #366 • Wilfred Manley, Jr., Willow #366 • Patricia Moody, Willow #366 • Sharon Morton, Willow #366 • Fulton Donald Oakes, Enterprise #48 • Wilhelmine D. Oakes, Enterprise #48 • John W. Wallace, Jr., Enterprise #48 • Milford Witham, Fairview #342

Indiana • Donald Tilton, Indian Trail #2361 Maine • Alfred Dingley, Topsham #37 • Elizabeth Herring, Valley #144 • Hazel Kleinschmidt, Willow #366 New Hampshire • George Stearns, Rochester #86

Massachusetts • Deborah Coutinho, Shelburne #68 • James Wholey, Shelburne #68

New York • Elizabeth A. Weber, Bergen #163 Ohio • Virginia Leonard, Monroe-Dan Emmett #847 Pennsylvania • Harold Bryson, Russellville #91 • Doris Callow, Sanatoga #25 • Mabel Louise Karns, Sanatoga #25 • Franklin Renninger, Sanatoga #25 • Jack Walters, Sanatoga #25 • Doris Worth, Russellville #91 Rhode Island • Louise Roberts, Roger Williams-Rumford #52 Washington • Albert E. Wilson, Tunk Valley #1019 • Ruthann Wilson, Tunk Valley #1019

New Jersey • Mary Ann Belstra, Moravian #187 • Eleanora Larney, Moravian #187 • Michael Larney, Moravian #187 • Helene Vorse, Moravian #187 New York • Jerald McCracken, Stafford #418 • Ruth McCracken, Stafford #418 • Jacqueline Montalvo, Stafford #418 • Helen H. Mullen, Stafford #418 • Robert W. Mullen, Stafford #418 • Cindy Pollard, Marcellus #464 • Roberta Severson, Marcellus #464 • Daniel Woolley, Marcellus #464

GOOD DAY!™ MAGAZINE www.nationalgrange.org

50 YEARS CONTINUOUS MEMBERSHIP (CONT’D) Pennsylvania • Virginia Hay, Hillcrest #1674 • Randy B. Hower, Walker #786 • Vince Smale, Geigertown #2061 • James Steele, Kennett #19 Rhode Island • James Aukerman, Richmond #6 • Clyde “Pete” Fish, Richmond #6 Vermont • Linda Hoyt, Middle Branch #463 • Jennifer R. Nelson, Blue Mountain #263 • Michael Wakefield, Middle Branch #463 Vermont • John Aviana, Triway #1093 • Mark E. Booker, Columbia Valley #928 • Robert Cook, Tunk Valley #1019

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Joan M. Defries, North Bellingham #201 Roger Edward, Riverside Valley #1047 Karen L. Edwards, Washington #82 Louise Eller, Lower Naches #296 Walter Eller, Lower Naches, #296 Susan June Engelking, Manor #1101 Stephen A. Erickson, North Bellingham, #201 Norma Everitt, Lower Naches #296 Janet Franz, Tyler #610 Pamala Gallagher, Triway #1092 Helen Hannah, Rome #226 Ben Hauck, Lower Naches #296 Marlene Hauck, Lower Naches #296 Ray Heilman, Lower Naches #296 Franklin Holmes, Tunk Valley #1019 Dee Huck, Lower Naches #296 Barbara L. Johnson, Washington #82

• • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Pamela O’Brien, Lower Naches #296 Larry Popejoy, Broadway #647 Ivan G. Pritchett, Washington #82 Gerald Ray, Ralson #943 Helen Rolfe, Centerville #81 Steven M. Rolfe, Centerville #81 Lavonne Saunders, Ralston #943 Ken Schillinger, Deer Lagoon #846 Barry Sunderland, Broadway #647 Michael Swanda, Columbia Valley #938 Robert B. Tetreault, Washington #82 Corinne Turcott, Rome #226 Myra L. Volland, South Union #860 Ray D. Winters, Barberton #571

Welcome New Members TO THE Grange Family Addy #603 (WA)

Baw Faw #34 (WA)

Addy Junior #390 (WA)

Bee Hive #385 (WA)

• •

Phoebe Belback Brooklyn Thompson

1 Junior member

Adna #417 (WA) •

Kay Pearson

Albright #440 (NY) • • • • •

Glenn E. Craig Glenn E. Craig, Jr. Marilyn Inman Joseph M. Merwin Andy Renninger

Altona #127 (CO) • • •

Kevin Markey Charmain Ortega Getz Susan Zimmermann

Bainbridge Island #1051 (WA) • • • • • • •

Mari Bickford Brike Duncan Larry Johnson Brian Leackley Darren Murphy Katherine Pecora Eric Smith

Barberton #571 (WA) • • • •

Chelsie Barker Patricia Lape Lacey Oltman Tim Oltman

Barnard #689 (MI) • • • •

Barb Castle Doris Felton Darlene Paige Earl Paige

• • • •

• • •

Ben Stormer Kelli Stormer

Camas Valley Junior #395 (WA)

DeAnn Hultgren Karen Sherwood

5 Junior members

Camden #687 (WA)

Big Knob #2008 (PA) • • •

Brenda Greco Frank Miklos Gavin Palka

Branch Milles #366 (ME) • • • • •

Will Armstrong Angela Haiss Joshua Haiss Allison Luciano Nancy Thomas

Burgettstown #1502 (PA) Adam Carlini Rebecca Carlini Beau Harvey Stephanie Harvey Dawn Kramer Eva Kramer Sean Kramer Jim Shoup Lawrence Shoup Starr Shoup Cari Weaver Michelle White

Bernard Ogden Florence Ogden

• •

Randy Lewis Leo Urquhart

Centre Junior #550 (PA) 8 Junior members

Chico #486 (CA)

Camas Valley #842 (WA)

Paul Norris

Cedar Valley #306)

Rebecca Brown

Brook House Jonah House

Castine #250 (ME)

• •

2 Junior members

• •

Jeanna Anglin Troy Anglin Rick Knapp Carol Wood

Catlin #199 (WA)

Brighton Park #163 (WA)

• • • • • • • • • • • •

• • • • •

Breakabeen #767 (NY) •

Angela McCullough Logan Wise Nolan Wise and 4 Junior members

• • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Giuseppe Bianchi Stacey Bianchi Kaylynn J. Booth Lillian Booth William R. Booth Anna Brewer Scott Brewer Lawson Cooper Michele Cooper William Cooper Joe Gallaty Macey Gallaty Wendy Galatty Brooke Holt

GOOD DAY!™ MAGAZINE www.nationalgrange.org

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

Joey Holt Payton Holt Jenna Johnson Milissa Layfield Jennifer Leonard Mike Lewis Stephanie Lewis Jerry MacNally Mark Owen Marki Owen Piper Owen Levil Palmer Emma Schneider Holly Schneider Theresa Schneider TJ Schneider Ellie Tiffany Carrie Vanella Carson Vanella Ryan Vanella Ryley Vanella Braydon Waggoner Emma Waggoner Hannah Waggoner Shawn Waggoner and 11 Junior members

Chimacum #681 (WA) • • • • • •

Daniel Cochran Marcia Kelbon Joanne Pontrello Weston Pratt Christina Tinling Doyle Yancey

Clearlake #680 (CA) • • • • • •

John Ayle Pamela Ayle Dyani Bachelder John Bachelder Dennis Booth Jeff Brand

NEW MEMBERS (CONT’D) • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Crescent #136 (CO)

Beth Broida Helynna Brooke Tom Clarkson Kathleen Deacon Pattie Duke Polly Bauer Margo Fleming Ann Gerard Mike Guarniero Frank (Buster) Haas Arlene Hockanson Bradley Holt Jake Jacobson Philip Lovett Donna Nozzolille Scott Nuttall Kirsten Olson Mark Olson Mary Patalao Cecil Pearson Ruth Perez Andrew Rossoff Maureen Shea Ruth Shriber Scott Simkover Cate Sims Jane Stempe John Stempe Barbara Voorhies

•

• • • • •

• • • •

• •

Nicki Carangelo Alan Fair Mack King Sarah King Jacob Ritche Margaret Nelson Mark Nelson and 1 Junior member Victoria Clark Cindy Webster

• •

•

• •

Aaron Buchanan Logan Callahan Teagan Harlow Andrew Walters Evan Walters

Penn Fix

Elaine Thomson and 5 Junior members

Enterprise #1929 (IL) •

Valerie Hancock

Enterprise #48 (ME) •

Judith Gross

Excelsior #5 (ME)

John Martinez Tricia Martinez Susan Mauro Elver Williams and 2 Junior members

•

Rosemary Johnson

Fairview #1351 (PA) • • •

Abert Bragg Abigail Dow Denise Summers

Fargher Lake #853 (WA)

James Shawley

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

Laurel Ekorenurd Michael Gallion Vickie Kollman Michael Oyola Frank Penwell Pat Penwell Kevin Smith Micah Tarantino Matthew Tarantino Maximus Tarantino Susan Vanderwood Zane Ware

Dry Creek #646 (WA) • • • • • • • •

Andrew Robinson Sarah Robinson

Elma #26 (WA)

Deer Lagoon #842 (WA) • • • • • • • • • • • •

Mary Gates Heather Graham Marian Pirrone Raphaela Seward-Mayer

East Spokane #148 (WA)

Dawson #419 (PA)

Leslie Linderoth

County Line #1751 (IL)

Lloyd Cox Tim Hefferman Joanne Hefferman James McCormick Pat McCormick Peggy McCormick Ron McCormick

Davis Lake #501 (WA)

Russell Bedford Laurel Bedford James Fallon Cathy Wise

Corriher #627 (NC)

East Sangerville #177 (ME)

Alan Davis

Cuyler #449 (NY)

Copake #935 (NY) • •

Curriers #1273 (NY) • • • • • • •

Columbia Valley #938 (WA) •

Cuba #799 (NY)

• • • •

•

Colonel Harper #1508 (NY) • • • •

East Chatham #1066 (NY)

Diane Blanchard

Andrew Bader Julia Baeder Max Baeder Tammy Bader Ashley Barr James Barr Jason Barr Angel Martinez and 2 Junior members

Calista Conder Thelma Conder Aquoia Coss Cheyenne Coss Kara Coss Montanna Coss Kayla Fitzen Sean Fitzen Elizabeth Ford Larry Goble Georgia Goff Jason Griffith Mira Griffith Meredith Meats Rebecca Meats Jeff Miltenberger Bryce Shirley Grange Shirley Hunter Shirley Ruthie Shirley and 6 Junior members

Fargher Lake Junior #49 (WA) 3 Junior members

Fassett #1567 (PA) •

Catherine Harshberger

Ferguson #809 (NC) • • •

Joe Angott Tina Angott David Baker

Fern Prairie #866 (WA) • • • • •

David Knight Jessica VanGelder Kaleb VanGelder Keith VanGelder Kirby VanGelder and 1 Junior member

Five Mile Prairie #905 (WA) 2 Junior members

Fleetwood #1839 (PA) • •

Amber Hallowell Harley Stamm

Flora #1762 (IL) • •

Alex Haugen Luanne Haugen

Florida #306 (CO) • • • • • •

Mecca Bailey Angela Fosco Zac Fosco Mike Hawkins Sherry Hawkins Rachel Mikelson

Forest #853 (PA) • •

Jacklyn Schillinger Peter Schillinger

Fredonia #1 (NY) • • •

G. Mary Mattison Aaron Lowell Nelson Robert Olmedo

Freedom #1152 (WA) • • • • • • • • • • •

Dalton J. Chappel Daria A. Chappel Darin L. Chappel Dustin L. Chappel Logan D. Clawson Elena T. Gimenez James R. Gimenez Richard (Max) Guinn Sandy M. Guinn Cooper Hall Makayla Hall

HAS YOUR GRANGE RECENTLY WELCOMED A NEW MEMBER? Make sure they are recognized! Anyone may submit the names of new members so they can be recognized in Good Day! by emailing Philip Vonada at pvonada@nationalgrange.org or by calling (814) 404-7985. ®

NEXT ISSUE DEADLINE: SEPTEMBER 1, 2022

GOOD DAY!™ MAGAZINE www.nationalgrange.org

NEW MEMBERS (CONT’D) • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Nicole L. Hall Katie Leitz Alvin Lopez Debbie A. Lopez Emily A. Lopez Olivia Lopez Noley Morse Bogdan P. Parkhotyuk Caitlin R. Parkhotyuk Bryce Posey Joel A. Prantle Theresa G. Prantle Chantelle J. Rhoads Steve E. Rhoads Taryn A. Rhoads Rebeccah K. Zuhike

Freedom Plains #857 (NY) •

Valerie DeCesare

Fruitland #999 (WA) • • •

Penny Gibbons Catarina Hursh Joy Longhurst

Galt #1853 (IL) •

Mike Gaulrapp

Golden Harvest #33 (ME) •

Robert Sibley

Goldendale #49 (WA) • •

Sherye Morrison Michelle Watson

Grantham #968 (NC) • • • • •

Kevin Grady Karen Nethercutt Pam Silver Bobby Joe Whitfield Julie Cotton Whitfield

Green Bluff #300 (WA) • • •

Suzanne Cozza Lauri Pounder Quentin Pounder

Hamptonburgh #950 (NY) • •

Jack Moran Kiara Paualino

Hartslog Valley (PA) •

Sara Newman

Haynie #169 (WA) •

Christian Pepper

Hickory #1285 (PA) • • • • • •

Fred Antes Lois Moore Martha Smith Sam Spicher Myrna Ward Ron Ward

Hollis #132 (ME) • •

Carl Wallace Nadja Wallace

Hookstown #1980 (PA) •

Joanne Bonner

Humptulips Junior #376 (WA) 3 Junior members

Jonesboro #357 (ME) • • • •

Marilyn Dowling Kassandra Holmes Mary Vokey Wayne Vokey

Juniper #1302 (NC) • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Deborah T. Bosworth Gary David Bosworth Bobby L. Caddell Kenneth M. Caddell Linda V. Caddell Linda W. Caddell Clayton M. Cameron Jennifer A. Cameron Jessica A. Cameron Nicholas A. Cameron William J. Cameron Calvin Castleberry Andrew L. Deal Floyd A. Fritz Kaye K. Fritz Carl T. Garner Heather Jackson John Jackson Dorothy C. Kicklighter Christopher M. Laton Regina W. Laton Anna M. Liles Joshua C. Liles Archie R. McKenzi Karen L. McKenzie James A. McPherson Lucinda “Cindy” Novosel Markus R. Novosel David J. Overby Nancy L. Sellers William J. Sellers Hugh Shepard David L Williams and 2 Junior members

Kendrew #891 (NY) •

Charlotte Beldock

Kettle River #1120 (WA) • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Amber Anderson Bethany Anderson Ellie Anderson Gentry Anderson Kennety Anderson Tara Branson Ash Comery Brenton Comer Hillary Comer Kasandra Crow Mackenzie Darnielle Sara Darnielle Trent Darnielle Kim Deardorff Craig Eaton Madi Eaton Tara Eaton Julie Gibbons Wyatt Humphrey Pennie Lindsey

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Heather March Amber Moody Kidu Morgan Deena Oliver Richard Poitras-Simmons Darin Romero Juan Romero Virginia Romero Amy Simmons Michael Simmons Donavyn Stahl Angela Thompson Brandon Thompson Paula Thompson Trevor Thompson and 5 Junior members

King Hill #162 (ID) • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Christie Acord Morgan Anderson Ray Dell Bosh Dorothy Drake Joann D. Heath Leland Hoagland Mary Hoagland Curtis A. Laib Amy Sage Kevin Sherman Cindy Sherman A. Mervin Shenk Tamara L. Shenk Colleen Teevin

Kutztown #1836 (PA) •

Sharon Hess

Lakeside #63 (ME) •

Lloyd Sweetser

Lambert #439 (CO) •

Judyrose Reed

Lamson #588 (NY) • • •

Rose Clark Dianne Harrington Patrick Harrington

Liberty #1780 (PA) •

Stacey Green

•

Chelsea Tabak

Manor #1101 (WA) •

Amy Brown

Marion #276 (WA) • • •

Sean Davis Angela Warner Samantha Warner

Middletown #684 (PA) • • • • • • • • • • •

Jennifer Eagen-McCloskey Bella Kobrcynski Kathea Leas Donald McCloskey Donna McCloskey Kathleen Pasko William Pasko Russell Strover Matthew Vaders Miranda Vaders Lilly VanBuskirk

Mill Stream #574 (ME) • •

Kristin Thompson Richard Thompson

Mingo #1084 (NC) • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Patrick Blanchard Sandra Carroll Ronald Ennis Jean Gainey Aaron Jackson Alfred Jackson Richard Jackson Thomas Jackson Curtis McLamb Ricky Naylor Christie Rhodes Marie Strickland June West Anthony Williams Erika Wrench Heather Wrench Kelly Wrench Thelmer Wrench

Mossyrock #355 (WA)

Lincoln Creek #407 (WA)

• • • •

Linganore #410 (MD)

Mountain Valley #79 (WA)

• • •

Linda Penfield Frost

Samantha Kleimann Cindy Shelton

Little Mountain #601 (NC) •

Lynn Swian

Logan #109 (PA) • •

Michael Kelley F. Scott Mauger

Lummi Island #925 (WA) • • •

Julie Lowe Richard Lowe Dorren Richmond

Mahoning Valley #1649 (PA) • •

Nicole Logan Cassie Ruehle

GOOD DAY!™ MAGAZINE www.nationalgrange.org

•

Anthony Compton Kayalei Compton Ed Myers Elaine Myers Elizabeth Goble

New Market #362 (MD) •

Joanne Winslow

North Jay #10 (ME) • •

Brenda Deojay Sean Hennessy

Norway #45 (ME) • • • •

Kathy Colby Tonya Gleason Everett Parlin Darrell Thibodeau

Oakview #311 (WA) •

Gayle Judson

NEW MEMBERS (CONT’D) • • •

Kathie Mills Connie Reed Rhoda VanDettey

Old Richmond #675 (NC) •

Denise Terry

Ontelaunee #1617 (PA) • •

Shirley Breininger Alexa Davis

Orcas Island #964 (WA) •

Buddy Gibson

Oxford #526 (WV) • •

Angel Bonnett Pam Foster

Patterson #616 (NC) • • • • • • •

Lisa Burleson Rick Burleson Hannah McDonald Sam McDonald Bo Pennington Karyn Pennington Maggie Pennington

Pilot Hill #1 (CA) • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Victoria M. Atterbury Gregory Cole Cherry Edward William Edwards Dorene E. Fisk Gerald Madden Cynthia McGee Timothy McGee Albert M. Niegele Roxanna Layne Parr Steven Parr Robert Richardson William Threlkel William (Joe) White

Plattekill #923 (NY) • •

Jami Anson Kelly Anson

Pleasant Park #156 (CO) • • • • • • • • • •

Claudia Bernal Jean Dent Todd Faubion Benjamin Galloway Donna Kubik Al Leo Gregg Morris Matt Schultz Terra Stern Nedra Woodyatt

Prairie #1832 (IL) • • •

Ruth Bunger Russell Caldwell Suzanne Caldwell

• • • • • • •

• • •

• • • •

Emma Hreljanovic Theresa Sygitowicz Susan Alexander John Dunham Marsha Dunham

• •

• • •

Amy Denis Gordon Frohloff Tina Giacollo Kaylinda Libbey

•

Harold Arsem Nirmela Arsem Mosa Baczewska Kara Bezanson Bex Bishop Rich Bronk Kit Case Jessica Cole Mike Coryell Lora Ann David Andre Derksman Suzy Diesen Oswyn Eshelman Juelianna Freeauf Zoe Friend Justin Haight Tricia Kiefer Tara MacMahon Kyle Miller Dan O’Bryant Scott Reynolds Benjamin Squire Robbin Turner Irene Voskamp Roxy Wolosenko Janet Wright

• •

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

Schley #710 (NC)

• • • • •

•

James Snyder

Amanda Cassell Jonathan Cassell Benjamin Cimperman Brian Cimperman Jaquelin Cimperman Alexander Cracien Joy Cracien Mihaela Dumitru Dayton Hastings Brian Humecky Heather Humecky James Humecky Madilyn Humecky Brent Leavitt Jodie Leavitt Brian Lyons Morgan Lyons Anthony Miller Lauren Miller Jim Raubolt Joanna Raubolt Krystalynne Raubolt and 14 Junior members

Spring Hill #909 (WA) •

Scrubgrass #1705 (PA)

Jon Holzwarth Brian Miller

Southern Nye #30 (NV)

Sandy Creek #127 (NY)

Ken Andrews

Coleen Sands Ronald Sands

South Camano #930 (WA) • •

Jeffrey Flagg

Harriet Wilcox

Larry Taylor

South Auburn #1188 (PA)

Vee Peri Jane Storres

San Poil #684 (WA) •

Kay Deihl Erika Howard Alberta Naylor

Skokomish #379 (WA)

San Juan Island #966 (WA) • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Elizabeth Bender Wayne Bender Joyce Cassel Michael Conrad Christina Dudley Nichole Heinrich Mike Horning Barbara Melius Meredith Wolz Brent Yohn

Sinking Valley #484 (PA)

Sallal #955 (WA)

Ralston #943 (WA) Debbie Binam Jeff Duval Steve Duval

Alice LaCelle

Saco #53 (ME)

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• • •

• • • • • • • • • •

Roseville #1290 (PA) • • •

Tara Martin Joshua Tax Rachel Tax Glen Varvil and 2 Junior members

Shermanata #1796 (PA)

Rome #226 (WA)

•

Lea Petock

• • • •

Ricard #993 (NY)

Prosperity #315 (WA) •

Sequim Prairie #1108 (WA)

Trena Galen Pauline Gielisch Liz Gillette Henry McRae Trich McRae Carin Monroe Kaylee Monroe and 3 Junior members

Kari Clouse

Stanford #808 (NY)

Blaire Coons Richie A. Deck Lee E. Griffin Shane Manning Nicolas Tornberg

St. Andrews #832 (WA) • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

St. John’s #729 (NC) •

www.nationalgrange.org

Dylan Grissom and 1 Junior member

Summit City #672 (MI) •

Jena VanWagner

Summit Park #261 (WA) • •

Gabriela Cuevas Christine Tolman

Swauk Teanaway #984 (WA) •

Bev Kluth

Tioga #1223 (PA) • • • • • • • • • • • •

Ryan Belz Jennifer Bousquet-Sutton Linda Jones Lindsea Jones Madison Jones Robert Jones Taylor Rae Jones Sylvia Loveland Rose McMillan William Patterson Theresa Swain Judy Thomas

Trexlertown #1755 (PA) •

Lynne Wetzel

Trout Lake #210 (WA) • •

Lyris Wooldridge Robert Wooldridge

Tunk Valley #1019 (WA) • • • • •

Sandy Jones Vicki Ledger Teresa Montoya Gren Sangster Bobette Stover

Turkey Hill #1370 (IL) • •

Rebecca Hawkins-Valadez Emma Rutledge

Twisp Valley #482 (WA) • • •

David Asia Susan Ernsdorff Joshua Porter

Tyler #610 (WA) •

GOOD DAY!™ MAGAZINE

Amber Bolyard Hailey Bolyard Jess Bolyard Kris Brenneyer Ron Brokaw Troy Clinton Veronica Clinton Emily Dingman Jamie Jess Ty Jess Andreas Landon Chance Landon Kristina Marsolf Clint Peters Megan Peters and 14 Junior members

David Abraham

NEW MEMBERS (CONT’D) • • • • •

Saige Bosworth Sky Bosworth Glen Dean Keri Dean Maximus Dean

Union #152 (PA) •

Elizabeth Arnold

Virginville #1832 (PA) • • • •

Eli Blatt Sara Sekella William Sekella Steven Stetzler

Westbrook #1016 (NC) • • •

Mary Lee Della Potter Denise Terry

Shirley Briggs Jean Shea

White Rock #380 (ME) • • • •

• • • • •

Welcome New Granges!

Linda Miles Joseph Moulton

Winthrop #209 (ME)

Westminster #184 (CO) • •

• •

Sherrie Ann Doyon Curt Phillips Jennifer Phillips Ricky Phillips Diane Young

Howard Charles Marcia Charles David McCullough Jennifer McCullough

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

• • • • •

Centre Junior #550 (PA) Juniper #1302 (NC) King Hill #162 (ID) Pilot Hill #1 (CA) Southern Nye #30 (NV)

MEMORIAL NOTICES

MARGARET ANNE “PEGGY” MILLER Past National Junior Grange Director

Margaret Anne (Peggy) Miller, past National Junior Grange Director, was born May 8, 1940, to Della Mae & Leonard Owen (Brownie) Long in Raymond, Washington. She grew up with Della’s second husband Leroy Gager and was joined by two brothers, Gene & Brad. Peggy described them as the best brothers a girl could ask for. She graduated in 1958 from Kelso High School and left Kelso for Seattle to work at the Federal Reserve Bank as a telephone operator. She married Gordon Keith Titus at Sunnyside Grange Hall in Castle Rock, on April 3, 1960. Peggy had six children and after Keith’s death married Wayne Miller in Chehalis on February 9, 1974. Peggy’s favorite times were when she was surrounded by kids. Keith and she often remarked that they were going to have a dozen. A good effort was made until his accidental death. She started helping with Sunnyside Grange as a Junior Matron (leader). This took her to many summers of Junior Grange camp as a Matron, cook, adult help, and eventually camp director. Wayne & Peggy traveled throughout the state with this title – Junior Grange Director and Camp Director beginning in 1981 and continued for 20 years. They enjoyed inspiring those who worked with our young Grangers, their parents, and leaders. The most described word from her Grange friends who wrote on her Facebook page was wonderful, and as a family, we can not agree more. From Washington State to National Grange she and Wayne

became the National Junior Grange Directors in 1988. Again, she loved traveling the states meeting new people and making more lifetime friends. In 2010, Peggy and Wayne received the Washington State Grange Leadership Award, the highest award bestowed on members. Picnics were her passion; she loved a good burnt hotdog. Many Sundays the family loaded up in a station wagon and traveled to Centralia to have lunch with the Powell Family. Uncle Bill and Aunt Eileen were usually the hosts. The Titus’s were also known for their gatherings usually at Seaquest Park but many times wherever two or more families gathered–Titus, Williams, Stonebraker, Nelson, and Mott families. And later she loved having Sunday dinners and holidays with her children and grandchildren in Washtucna. Peggy is survived by her husband Wayne Miller, children Codi Titus, Kelly Voie, Keith & Sara Titus, Greg & Arminda Miller, Jennifer Webb, and David & Jean Miller. Grandchildren: Erik & Natalia Voie (Children: Lilly & Riley, Kierrah Velazquez, Devonte Velazquez, Keziah Gleason), Skyler & Brittany Voie (Children: Owen & Hank), Jessica Voie, Krista & Scott McIntyre (Child: James), Caleb & Rady Titus (Child: Silas), Miranda Panuska, Megan Palmer (Children: Paxton & Emersyn), Lanna Svoboda, Jazlynn Webb, Terrell Webb, Jordanne Webb, Nickolas Webb, Dakota Miller, Brittany Gordon, Jazzmyn Gordon & Wyatt Gordon. Her brother Gene & Mary Gager, daughter Shalee & Blake Cunneen, and children Ella & Sean, and sisters Dianne Denhem and Bette Belanger. Margaret Ann Miller died at the age of 82 on May 23, 2022. She was preceded in death by her first husband Gordon Keith Titus, parents Della & Leroy Gager and Brownie Long, brother Brad Gager, and grandson Bryan Voie. Cards and condolences may be sent to: Wayne Miller 5615 W Umatilla Ave #301 Kennewick, WA 99336

GOOD DAY!™ MAGAZINE www.nationalgrange.org

JOHN A. LAWSON, JR.

Past President of Rhode Island State Grange John A. Lawson, Jr. (Jack) 83, Past

Jack was also a member of many

National Delegate, of Rumford, Rhode

fraternal organizations including the

Island, passed away on June 20, 2022

Grange, of which he was a member of the

after battling numerous health issues

local (Roger Williams-Rumford Grange),

for many years. Jack was born February

county, State and National levels for

7,1939. He grew up in Rumford, where

68 years. He was Master (President) of

he resided at the time of his passing.

the Rhode Island State Grange from

He is survived by his wife of 52 years,

1990-1994, and was currently serving

Shirley A. (Manchester) Lawson, his son,

as Chaplain of the Rhode Island State

John A. Lawson III and his wife Jennifer,

Grange.

his daughter, Cynthia Whitaker and her

He was a member for 57 years and

husband Jason, and his granddaughter,

past presiding officer of Rising Sun

Samantha. He was preceded in death by

Masonic Lodge of East Providence,

his twin granddaughters, Hannah and

currently serving as Chaplain, and many

held at Hope Congregational Church, on

Ashley Whitaker.

other Masonic bodies. He was a member

Saturday, June 25, 2022.

For 60 years, Jack had been a

for 56 years of Martha Washington

In lieu of flowers, donations may

“traveling salesman,” selling supplies to

Chapter, Order of Eastern Star of Warren,

be made to Jules Hope Chest, 505

dairy farmers in southern New England.

serving currently as Worthy Patron as well

Waterman Avenue, East Providence, RI

He loved his work and was even working

as for many previous terms. He was Past

02914: https://app.theauxilia.com/pay/

by phone while in the hospital a few days

President of the R.I. Agricultural Council.

johnlawsonjr or to the Leukemia and

Jack was an incredible man who

Lymphoma Society, 2346 Post Road

before his passing. He was an active member of the

devoted his life to his family and serving

Warwick Church of Christ, serving in

others through his church, his work, and

a leadership position. It was his strong

his membership in many organizations.

faith in God that enabled him to face

He truly made the world a better place

Shirley A. Lawson

his many medical issues and trials in a

for all.

120 Wilson Avenue

positive manner.

A Celebration of Life Service was

GOOD DAY!™ MAGAZINE www.nationalgrange.org

#202, Warwick, RI 02886. Cards and condolences may be sent to:

Rumford, RI 02916-2832

Science is resilient. It can overcome diseases, create cures, and, yes, even beat pandemics. It has the methodology and the rigor to withstand even the most arduous scrutiny. It keeps asking questions and, until there’s a breakthrough, it isn’t done. That’s why, when the world needs answers, we turn to science. Because in the end,

SCIENCE WILL WIN™

Learn more at www.pfizer.com

GOOD DAY!™ MAGAZINE www.nationalgrange.org

GROW Club names scholarship recipients By Robert Beamon

comes to the stress of being able to pay for school.”

President, G.R.O.W. Club Board Ryan Each

year,

the

Patton,

Ewing

Grange #2082, Ohio - Ryan

Right On Working (GROW)

attends

Club awards at least one

University

academic

Agriscience Education. This

the amount of $500 to a

scholarship will assist Ryan

Grange member in good

complete his Senior Year. As

standing and enrolled full-

an emerging professional with

time in a college, university,

a college degree, he plans to

community

college,

either work for an agricultural

technical institution, or trade school. After reviewing this year’s

industry or a public school

applications, the GROW Club Board members selected two

system, teaching vocational

scholarship award recipients:

agriculture. No matter what career Ryan chooses, his college

scholarship

The

Ohio majoring

State in

Ryan Patton Photo Provided

degree will guide him to a successful future. Morgan Mossyrock

Morgan Browning Photo Provided

Browning, Grange

“As it is known, college degrees are expensive. So, I am

#355,

grateful for the opportunity the National Grange has provided

Washington - Morgan attends

me,” Patton says. “National Grange has decreased my financial

North Seattle College and is

burden of earning a college degree. Now I can move forward

enrolled in an Associate of

to the next step. Thank you, National Grange, for your support.

Applied

I truly appreciate it.”

Science

program

with a focus in Fire Science.

The GROW Club Board would like to thank all of this year’s

Morgan will use the skills

applicants for taking the time to apply for this year’s scholarship

developed in this program

award. We wish all of the applicants much success with their

as she pursues a career in

post-secondary efforts.

Firefighting.

If you missed out on the Academic Scholarship, but are attending this year’s National Session in Sparks, Nevada,

“Receiving this scholarship

consider applying for the GROW Club’s Travel Scholarship. The

means so much to me as I solely rely on financial aid and

application deadline is October 20, 2022, and the recipient(s)

scholarships to go to school,” Browning said. “Earning this

will be announced at the GROW Club reception during the

scholarship takes one more weight off my shoulders when it

convention.

The official weekly newsletter The Grange Patrons of the National Subscribe at Chain www.nationalgrange.org/subscribe 46

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Announcing the 2022 Winners of the Whippoorwill Book Award for Rural Young Adult Literature By Chea Parton

Founder, Literacy in Place

Represents the reality of rural places without overly romanticizing or denigrating a place

When they realized that there was no national award in existence that recognized excellence in rural young adult (YA) literature, Dr. Jenn Sanders of Oklahoma State University founded the Whippoorwill Book Award to do just that. The Whippoorwill was first awarded in 2019, and I currently have the utter pleasure and fortune of serving on the committee of eight that selects books for the award.

Portrays characters and settings accurately and authentically in terms of physical characteristics, social and economic statuses, intellectual abilities, and other human attributes

5. Presents in-depth treatment of issues related to rurality, rural sustainability, and/or rural concerns 6. Avoids stereotypes of rural people and places by representing the complexities of the situation, problem, and/or people.

The Whippoorwill’s Mission

7. Contributes to the body of diverse YA literature by

The Whippoorwill Award takes its name from the bird whose distinct song can be found in many different rural and

providing representations of diverse people and places.

remote spaces. It is meant to honor young adult literature that sings the unique and authentic stories and experiences of rural

Each award cycle, the committee

places and peoples. It is reflective of

selects

the Whippoorwill Award’s mission to

excellence in each of the seven

recognize and recommend YA books

criteria. Due to issues related to the

that illustrate the complexity of rural

COVID-19 pandemic, this particular

living by challenging stereotypes and

cohort of winners is a bit larger and

acknowledging the diversity among

includes books published in both 2020

rural people.

and 2021.

The Selection Process

books we select to challenge and

Publishers,

authors,

and

demonstrate

disrupt stereotypes of rural folks and the places they call home as well as

suggest books for consideration of

provide teachers with easily accessible

the award. After we receive them,

lists of quality rural YA books that

the committee reads them and uses a

they can use in their classrooms. To

seven-point criteria to evaluate each

see previous winners, you can visit

book, discussing whether or not we

https://whippoorwillaward.weebly.

find it deserving of the award.

com and/or follow the Whippoorwill Committee on Twitter @

WhippoorwillCo1 and on Instagram @whippoorwillcommittee.

We consider whether or not each book: Meets general criteria for excellence in young adult literature in its genre: a. Addresses universal truths, problems, topics, or issues b. Leaves a lasting impression; has an enduring quality c. Utilizes interesting and unique language, style, and/or word play d. Writing is appropriate for a young adult audience of ages 12-18 2.

that

It is our hope and mission for the

committee members send and/or

books

Portrays the value of rural spaces, knowledge, cultures,

Announcing This Year’s Winners Without further ado, I’d like to introduce to you the winners of the 2021-2022 Whippoorwill Book Award for Rural Young

Adult Literature. Along with the cover and a brief description of the book, I also provide an essential question tackled by the novel that teachers and book club leaders can use to guide their discussions of each winner as well as a short list of notable themes and characteristics featured in each book.

and histories.

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About the Book The Witch Owl Parliament (Clockwork Curandera #1) by David Bowles

Themes/ Characteristics

Essential Question

Indigenous folks and immigrants are

#Mexico

How is your rural

disappearing from Santander when

#Graphic

community (un)

Enrique’s sister, Cristina, is killed by

Novel

welcoming of

witch owls. Unable to let her go,

#Fantasy

difference? What might

Enrique uses forbidden alchemy and

#Loss

be some of the reasons

engineering to bring her back to

#Latinx

for that and how can the

life. Together they discover a plot to

#LGBTQ

community strive to be

bring Santander under the cruel rule

more inclusive of and

of the Witch Owl Parliament. Even

welcoming to folks who

though Cristina is now considered an

are different/outsiders?

abomination by Santander’s citizens, she and Enrique vow to protect their country by discovering the witch owls’ origins and weaknesses. courtesy of Lee and Low Books

Like Other Girls by Britta Lundin

Mara joins the football team to prove

#Oregon

What does it mean to be

to her basketball coach she can

#LGBTQ

or identify as boy/girl/

handle her temper. When four other

#Football

queer in a rural town?

girls join her, tensions run high on the

#Friendship

team and in her small Oregon town,

#Realistic

which leaves everyone questioning

Fiction

gender roles. Mara, especially, grapples with what it means to be like other girls.

courtesy of Disney Books

The Reckless Kind by Carly Heath

On a Norwegian island at the turn

#Norwegian

What is family, who gets

of the century, three friends become

Island

to define what that looks

found family and navigate life after

#Disability

like, and what does it

a farm accident, a failed marriage

#LGBTQ

look like to discover and

proposal, and a revealed secret make

#Historical

accept ourselves for

them outcasts in their rural town. They

Fiction

who we are in our rural

support one another as they work

#Found

places?

together to save a family farm.

Family

courtesy of Penguin Random House

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About the Book The Art of Saving the World by Corinne Duyvis

Themes/ Characteristics

Essential Question

On the night Hazel was born, an

#Pennsylvania

What about our own

interdimensional rift appeared in

#Sci-Fi

communities might

the yard of her family’s rural home.

#Multiple

need “saving” and

Whenever she ventured too far, the

Dimensions

what can we do to save

rift would become unstable and throw

#LGBTQ

them?

things from other dimensions onto

#Hero’s

their lawn. When she turns 16 the rift

Journey

becomes completely uncontrollable and throws several other Hazels into her dimension. Together they must figure out their connection to the rift and how to close it. courtesy of Abrams Books

Elatsoe by Darcie Little Badger

After her cousin visits her in a dream

#Texas

How are our

begging her to solve his murder,

#Indigenous

connections to our rural

Elatsoe and her family travel to a

#Speculative

places and communities

too-lush small desert town in Texas

Fiction

forged by our histories

to do just that. For Elatsoe, the veil

#Mystery

and relationships to

between the dead and the living is

#LGBTQ

people and family past

thin and she takes the responsibility

and present?

of her gift seriously. Drawing on strength from her ancestors and present family, Elatsoe works to solve the mystery of her cousin’s murder courtesy of Levine Querido

and bring justice and healing to his ghost and the family he left behind.

Dark and Shallow Lies by Ginny Myers Sain

Grey’s best friend and twin flame

#Louisiana

What does it mean and

goes missing in their tiny bayou

#Cajun/

is it ever really possible

town of La Cachette, Louisiana, the

Creole

to know someone? What

“Psychic Capital of the World”. On

#Island

does that look like/what

her quest to find out what happened,

#Psychics

is unique about that in a

Grey meets a stranger and learns

#Mystery

rural context?

things about her past that make her

#Speculative

question everything.

Fiction

courtesy of Penguin Random House

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About the Book In the Wild Light by Jeff Zentner

Themes/ Characteristics

Essential Question

Cash and Delaney are best friends

#Tennessee

What are the possibilities

who met in a support group for kids

#Connecticut

of and repercussions for

whose parents struggle with/have

#Addiction

staying, leaving, and/or

succumbed to addiction. They help

#Social Class

returning to a person’s

each other navigate life in their small

#Loss

rural community?

Tennessee town. So, when Delaney

#Friendship

gets a scholarship to a New England boarding school she wants Cash to go with her, but Cash doesn’t want to leave his ailing papaw. This is a tale of friendship, love, and loss.

courtesy of Penguin Random House

Pumpkin by Julie Murphy

Twins Waylon and Clementine bide

#Texas

In what ways are our

their time at a small West Texas high

#Body

rural communities (un)

school, waiting for the day they can

Positivity

supportive of us? What

leave and be their full queer selves.

#LGBTQ

can we do to change

When a spur-of-the-moment audition

#Drag

that?

video for Waylon’s favorite drag show

#Prom

is leaked and the whole school sees it, he is forced to reckon with the aftermath, especially his nomination for prom queen.

courtesy of Balzer + Bray

King and the Dragonflies by Kacen Callender

King knows his brother is a dragonfly.

#Louisiana

What are the benefits

He saw him land on the casket at

#LGBTQ

and drawbacks of

Kahlid’s funeral. He keeps this and

#Racism

grieving trauma in a rural

other secrets from his family as they

#Child Abuse

community?

all work to grieve Kahlid’s death in

#Loss

their small Louisiana town. When

#Middle

another boy goes missing, all King’s

Grades

secrets start to boil to the surface as he grapples with becoming and being his truest self.

courtesy of Scholastic Press

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About the Book This Poison Heart by Kalynn Bayron

Themes/ Characteristics

Essential Question

Briseis has a gift for plants – they

#New York

What can we learn from

notice her and grow for her in ways

#LGBTQ

movement across urban

that are mysterious and disconcerting.

#Adoption

and rural places?

When an aunt in her biological family

#Botany

dies and wills her the family’s mansion

#Greek

in rural New York, Bri is put on a

Mythology

course to self-discovery that includes

#Dark

some mysterious instructions and a

Fantasy

walled-off garden of the deadliest plants in the world.

courtesy of Bloomsbury

Rural Voices by Nora Shalaway Carpenter

This anthology contains a number of

#Diverse

What does it mean –

short stories, poems, and an essay

Locations

look, sound, smell, taste

that confront and disrupt what it looks

#Mulitple

feel like – to be rural?

like and means to be rural. All the

Genres

How would you define

authors are rural people who share

#Multiple

what rural is?

aspects of their rural experiences

Perspectives

through their writing to disrupt

#Anthology

stereotypes of what it is to be a rural

#Disrupting

person from a rural place.

Stereotypes

Sylvi has carved out a place for

#Rural Island

How can a fantasy rural

herself as a capable ice-road trucker

#Ice Road

landscape shed light on

on Layce, an island cursed with

Trucking

rural realities?

eternal winter. When her best friend,

#Class

Lenore, joins up with the rebels,

#Equity

Sylvi is determined to get her back,

#Fantasy

courtesy of Penguin Random House

Winter White and Wicked by Shannon Dittemore

even if it means agreeing to haul for a notorious smuggler that Winter doesn’t trust.

courtesy of Abrams Books

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About the Book Tell it True by Tim Lockette

Themes/ Characteristics

Essential Question

Lisa Rives is an outcast with

#Alabama

What role does

convictions. When she finds herself in

#Journalism

journalism play in rural

charge of her high school newspaper,

#Capital

towns? What happens

she fights to cover “real” stories – like

Punishment

when news outlets are

the upcoming execution of a local

#Social

consolidated?

man convicted of murder – and learns

Class

some important lessons about truth-

#Friendship

telling and friendship.

courtesy of Penguin Random House

A hearty congratulations to all of this year’s winners!

NICK KLEESE

If you read an excellent rural YA novel that you’d like to

Nick Kleese is a former rural high school English teacher

nominate for the Whippoorwill Award, please reach out to

and teaches future teachers at the University of Minnesota, Twin

whippoorwillcommittee@gmail.com.

Cities. He grew upon his family’s farm in Iowa and continues to

Special thanks to the committee for their time and dedication

keep diligent tabs on the weather there.

to this work. NATALIE NEWSOM

2022-2023 WHIPPOORWILL COMMITTEE MEMBERS

Natalie Newsom is a high school English teacher in Garden

KATE KEDLEY, Co-Chair

City, Georgia. She has taught in rural communities in Tennessee,

Kate Kedley is an assistant professor of education at Rowan

Mississippi, Florida, and Georgia.

University. Kate is a former secondary English language arts and drivers education teacher in Iowa, Arizona and the Central

CHEA PARTON

American country of Honduras. Kate’s research centers around

Chea Parton is a farm girl, former rural English teacher,

critical literacy and education, public engagement, LGBTQ

and visiting assistant professor of curriculum and instruction

and young adult literature, language education and social and

at Purdue University. She is the founder of Literacy In Place, a

educational movements in Honduras.

digital space where teachers, scholars, writers, and readers can consider how the where of reading/writing/learning shapes and

DEVON BRENNER, Co-Chair

is shaped by experience, culture, and identity.

Devon Brenner is a professor of teacher education at Mississippi State University and Director of the Social Science

JENN SANDERS, Founder

Research Center. She is also co-editor of The Rural Educator, the

Jenn Sanders is a literacy education professor at Oklahoma

journal of the National Rural Education Association. Previously,

State University specializing in writing instruction and children’s

she taught elementary school in Addison, Michigan, the town

literature. She lived in and taught elementary school in rural

where she grew up.

towns in Florida and currently holds the Dresser Endowed Professorship in Rural Teacher Education at OSU.

KAREN EPPLEY Karen Eppley is a former 5th grade teacher and a lifelong

STEPHANIE SHORT

resident of the Bald Eagle Valley in Central Pennsylvania. Her work

Stephanie Short is part-time faculty at the University of North

explores ideas around rural literacies, textual representations of

Georgia in teacher education. She is from the Appalachian

rurality, rural education as a matter of social justice, and policy

region of the United States and has lived and taught extensively

analysis. She edits the Journal of Research in Rural Education.

in rural areas.

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AGRITOURISM FEATURE

Southwest United States has agritourism for everyone By Elizabeth Hiner Senior Communication Fellow

Other offerings are food festivals - you

arrangements

observed

flourishing

can find one for each month of the year

natural ecosystems), raising cows, pigs,

depending on when and where your travel

chickens, and bees.

Join us on our next leg of the agritourism

plans take you. There are also the farmers

We are back on the road again, headed

trail. Our journey is to the Southwest to see

markets and you-pick farms when fruit or

south into Arizona which offers twenty

what we can find in the way of agritourism

vegetables are in season.

registered destinations around the state.

destinations, which for this tour is California,

Lastly is the farm to table dining

The Arizonan season for agritourism

Arizona, Utah, and our feature “host” state

experiences, one being the Fork, Cork,

starts off in the late fall with pumpkin picking

and Paddle/O.A.R.S. at Angels Camp.

and trickles out in late spring, although you

We are starting our tour off in California

You can take a white-water trip down the

can still find a couple of options in the heat

first which comes with the largest number

South Fork of the American River (class III

of the summer. You can tour ranches, farms,

of registered agritourism destinations for

rapids) followed with a gourmet meal which

and wineries.

the United States at just under 190.

includes locally grown produce and paired

Nevada.

The destinations most popular are the

with Sierra Foothills wines.

The State of Arizona is working with agricultural entities to make it easier for

wineries in Napa Valley and other areas

Our next stop is Utah, with over

around the state. Throughout the state, a

thirty destinations to choose from. Utah’s

traveler can find many types of farm tours

agritourism is supported by Utah’s Own

Night Dinner where you are served a

along country roads, enjoy the beautiful

(www.utahsown.com) and has been run by

gourmet dinner and learn about dates

agricultural scenery with places to stop,

the Utah Department of Agriculture and

or History Dinner, sharing the music and

shop, and taste.

Food for the last two decades.

history of Yuma. Then there is always the

startup agritourism ventures. A couple of offerings are Yuma’s Date

Along the way, you can find farm stays

Utah’s Own helps consumers connect

iceberg drop (as in iceberg lettuce) in Yuma

where you can pitch in and help or just kick

with artisans, farmers, and ranchers by

on New Year’s Eve at 10PM to coincide with

back and enjoy the scenery.

helping them to discover the best of what

the ball drop in New York City.

has

Queen Creek Olive Mill in Queen Creek

to offer, such as

Arizona, a suburb in southeastern Phoenix,

farmer’s

offers tours plus a class on “Olive Oil 101,”

agriculture

markets

and festivals. You also

find

featuring the basics of using olive oil and its can

health benefits. They, like many agritourism

the

destinations, also have a store on site.

e n t re p re n e u r i a l

We are rounding out our tour with our

enterprise, like the

final stop in Nevada. Despite the generally

Dancing

Moose

Ranch, in Huntsville

arid climate in Nevada, crops are produced in abundance on irrigated land.

Utah. Here, you

Alfalfa hay is the leading cash crop for

can stay in one

the state, followed by potatoes, barley,

of their yurts and

spring and winter wheat, corn, oats, onions,

experience

ranch

garlic, and honey. On smaller acreage

life - as much or

farms, you can find flowers, mint, fruits, and

little as you would

vegetables.

like. Their focus is on

permaculture

Nevada has the fewest agritourism destinations

the

southwest,

with

(an approach to

approximately nine - as much of Nevada’s

A visit to Dancing Moose Ranch in Huntsville, Utah, would not land management and settlement be complete without a stay in their six-person yurts Photo from dancingmoosefarmUT.com design that adopts

tourism is focused on gambling in Las

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Vegas and Reno, or the recreation around Lake Tahoe. However, Nevada expects to

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see growth in this field now that COVID is

produce or flowers, shopping

a bit more under control and people are

at the produce stand to

traveling more.

learning about the old farm

Along with the farmer’s markets you can

equipment. Self-guided tours

find in and around Las Vegas and Reno,

of the pumpkin patch and

you can also find the hidden gems such

maze are available.

as the National Basque Festival in Elko,

Each year since 1998,

Nevada. This event, held each year, over

the farm has a corn maze.

the 4th of July weekend, is to celebrate

Their first maze, also first in

this country and to thank it for accepting

the state, was in the shape

the Basques and their traditions so freely.

of the state of Nevada. Each

During the multi-day celebration, you can

year since, the maze has had

enjoy live music, dancing, wood chopping,

a different theme. This year’s

weightlifting, a parade, food vendors and

theme will be revealed in October

much more. They also host a yearly Mus

when the farm transforms into

site for weddings, family reunions, and

(a Basque card game) tournament open to

a celebration of the end of the season at

corporate retreats, as well as impromptu

all players.

their Fall Festival.

tours of the grounds to check out the bees

Another stop might be to the Lattin

Traditional dancers take part in the 2022 National Basque Festival in Elko, Nevada in July. Photo from the Elko Euzkaldunak Club

This year you will find the corn maze,

and their raspberry and blackberry crops.

Farm in Fallon, Nevada, about an hour

pumpkin patch, cow train, scarecrow

This stop is more about the history of the

east of Reno. They offer a wide variety

factory, crafters’ market, and pumpkin

ranch than what it produces.

of amenities from picking your own

tower. There will also be events unique to

“It’s a wonderful opportunity to educate

this year’s theme. These events are open

others on the importance of agriculture,

every Saturday throughout October.

preserve its heritage, and hopefully spark

If you are a history buff, our next stop

a passion for it in our future generations.”

in Nevada is the Jacobs Berry Farm in

says Denise Laughlin, Director of the Farm.

Gardnerville Nevada. The Farm has its

As you can see, there is something for

roots in 1872 when Lorens Christensen,

every interest to be found in this area of

a Danish immigrant - was granted the

the United States.

property in the Carson Valley.

In my next column, we will be off

A young Wilhelm Lampe immigrated

to the Northwest to check out Alaska,

to the area working at the Dangberg

Washington and Idaho, and we will be

Ranch in Minden until he was able to buy

featuring agritourism in Oregon.

the property in 1887. He and his wife Maria built it into a successful ranch, which they sold to their sons in 1922. In 1970, various parcels were sold off for development, due to the land value, and much became downtown Gardnerville. In 2002, the Jacobs purchased the remaining five acres which included the homestead, barn, dairy, and bunkhouse and renamed it the Jacobs Berry Farm. The Nevada Museums and History approved the Lampe Ranch property to be listed in the Nevada Register of Historic Places The original 1998 corn maze at Lattin Farms in Fallon was in the shape of Nevada. Photo from lattinfarms.com

in 2018. Joel Hay Nevada Properties purchased the farm in 2021. The Jacobs Berry Farm offers the

H & L

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Support some of the locations mentioned in this article: • Dancing Moose Ranch www.dancingmoosefarmut.com • Yuma’s Date Night Dinner www.visityuma.com • Queen Creek Olive Mill www.queencreekolivemill.com • National Baque Festival www.elkobasqueclub.com • Lattin Farms www.lattinfarms.com • Jacobs Berry Farm www.jacobsberries.com

NOTES FROM A SMALL TOWN

Some things I miss about working in an office By Christopher Dean

I literally devoured hundreds of books

phrase, new ways of thinking. It was only

Massachusetts Grange Member

that way. Beginning in January of 1990, I

an office, but it was a place where there

started writing down the names of all the

were other people all the time.

When I lost my job in June of 2020, one of the first things I lost was my commute. After we moved to Rockport, in 2016, my commute to work expanded from forty-five minutes (each way) by

books I read and since then I’ve brought

In March of 2020, Covid hit and the

the total to up almost two thousand,

office shut down. I worked from home for

something I’ve been pretty pleased with;

three months and then I lost my job as

I’ve always been a voracious reader.

clients pulled out or cut back; a fifth of

I knew that if I stopped commuting by

the people in the office were let go.

public transportation, my reading time

I collected unemployment and I sat

would contract seriously. But reading had

at home, staring at the walls, reading, or

to go if I wanted to stay sane. By talking

going out for walks to buy coffee or stare

to co-workers who lived in the general

at the ocean. I didn’t miss the commute

area where we live, I got the commute to

at all, I’d never noticed before how

about an hour and a quarter (each way).

addled I was when I would get home

They told me which routes to take, drew

after a tense drive which was marked

out a map showing where to turn off the

by not taking my eyes off the road for

days of commuting that way, it came to a

highway for a shortcut to avoid traffic

so much as three seconds; the tension

head on the fourth day when I got stuck

at interchanges with all the required

seeped into my evenings once I got

on the subway, missed my train, and

landmarks (gas stations, schools, parking

home, my shoulders would remember

didn’t get home until almost 10:00pm. I

lots). If I was lucky - like, really lucky - I

the tension better than I did. I had lots of

realized that I had to drive to work if I

might hit most of the green lights on my

time for reading, mostly magazines (we

wanted to spend any time at home at all.

shortcut.

subscribe to seventeen), and I started to

subway, to about two and a half hours (each way!) by commuter rail and then making two subway connections. It would mean leaving the house at 5am and getting home at 8:30pm, depending on how good or how bad train service was. I lasted exactly four

I’ve always been a fan of public

I learned that in the summer, when the

transportation and mainly used it to read.

school buses are off the roads,

H & L

buying them.

I could get the commute down

After three months, my old boss

to fifty minutes. And I could

called me and recommended that I

listen to books on CD in my

phone someone he used to work with

car; I grew adept at changing

at an architect’s office in Cambridge.

discs without taking my eyes

He was looking for someone who knew

off the road.

the same obscure architectural drafting

Also,

take books out of the library instead of

importantly,

when

program that I’d used for the previous

I was at work, I would see

twenty-five years. I called him and he

different people. I’d hear about

hired me on the spot, but I could work

vacations, births of children,

from home as a contractor.

weddings, car troubles, life in

At my new job, I work from home, and

general. There’d be talk about

I’ve been doing it for over two years now.

last night’s baseball game, or

I don’t see other faces ever. For hours on

interesting television shows,

end, I don’t even leave my own second

a co-worker and I talked

floor library/office space. I worked with

about books worth reading.

a woman I didn’t actually see in person

Everything in the world was a

for four whole months until we had to do

topic for discussion. I learned

some field measuring. I snack from our

fun new slang, new turns of

fridge and I make my own lunches, so I

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don’t go out to eat. If I want coffee, I can walk down the local

an English major which is also how architects dress). I wear the

coffee place, but usually I don’t, as making coffee at home is

same thing all week when I go out of the house now, for my

much cheaper, which is useful since I make almost exactly half

short trips to buy coffee or a newspaper. No-one notices or

what I used to. I’m not paying to fill the tank three times a week

cares.

anymore, but that’s not really enough of a savings no matter

The “up side” of the coin is that I can roll out of bed and go

how high gas prices go. Basically, I’m home all the time and I

right into the office/library on the other side of the upstairs hall.

never get to see people.

There’s no crushing commute consisting of hours spent in a car

What surprised me was that I missed all those people I’d worked with for so many years. Not the people themselves really, but people in general, seeing faces different from my own; looking in the mirror is the only time I ever see a face at all. I wasn’t actually friends with any of them, to be perfectly honest, but we interacted on a polite level. Now, I’m alone all day and I miss having interactions of any kind. I can wear my jammies all day because nobody actually sees me, so that’s sort of a plus, but I also spent thousands of dollars over time on “nice” clothes that I could wear to work. The

or on a subway train or a commuter train. I can eat breakfast on the back porch whenever I want, I can get a haircut in my own time, I can make a doctor appointment without having to worry about getting back in a hurry, and I can work late if I use up my time for taking my mother food shopping without getting home at midnight. So, working from home as a contractor turns out to be kind of a mixed bag. I’m definitely craving company more often, there’s no-one to chat with unless I make a phone call.

money I spent on tweed jackets specifically for client meetings

This is, I suppose, good practice for retirement when it

turns out to have been money wasted, though the jackets are

eventually comes. I’ll be sort of grudgingly used to being alone

pretty nice. I can’t think of a reason to wear a tweed jacket now,

all day, and I’ll have my little routines. Actual retirement won’t

and I have no use for those Oxford shoes which I used to wear

be much of a surprise, I’ll even be an old hand at it, and then

to work, or those low-key khaki pants (I admit that I dress like

I bet I’ll really enjoy it and know how to make the most of it.

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Life on the Homestead... By Suzann Gilliland Peterson High Desert Grange, Nevada

I’m a city girl. I’m a city girl who, as a child, dreamed day and night about becoming a farmer’s wife. No doubt, my dreams were inspired by visits to my great aunt and uncle’s farm in Lancaster, CA. I love the earth, the sky, the rain, streams and rivers, and all the animals on God’s green earth. My young life, however, was spent the urban way living in Los Angeles. My father was an outdoorsman fishing streams, lakes and the sea and hunting locally and afar, all to provide for his family of four. Hunting with his camera for the perfect shot was, by far, his happiest pursuit as he sought to showcase environmental issues through his lens and his written words. Long before environmental issues took to the public eye, he was sounding the alarm about over-fishing our oceans and widespread poaching on public lands. I had the great fortune to accompany him on some of his excursions, which deepened my love of nature. I now live in the Great Basin Desert, sixty miles east of Reno, Nevada. My husband, Dan, and I have a house on five acres of pure sand. Dan had homesteaded his first house which now belongs to his eldest son. Over coffee one morning, Dan approached me about homesteading our property as a precaution of what the future may bring. Both of us had lost our former spouses, so security was an important consideration for us. But I knew nothing about homesteading. Perfect timing! I’ve been asked to do a quarterly article on homesteading for Good Day! magazine. The saying “when the student is ready, the teacher appears” is probably appropriate in this instance. I like reference points, history, and the opportunity to share what I’ve learned. My stories will explore the history of homesteading, how it applies to today’s

world, and what it entails. Many of you are living the homestead experience; some of you are new to the Grange; and a few of you, like me, may come from an urban environment. My goal is to introduce/ reintroduce you to a facet of Grange that touches many of us… homesteading. What is Homesteading? For those of you unfamiliar with the term, “homesteading” means a selfsufficient lifestyle, one of subsistence agriculture on land owned or rented to support a household. It includes the preservation of home-grown food and livestock. Items made at home such as textiles, garments, and craft work for household use or sale on a small scale may also be part of homesteading. The term has been around for at least thirty-seven decades. What conditions created the need for such a concept?

plots of unappropriated public land. To qualify, an individual must be the head of a household or 21 years of age, have five years of continuous residence on the land, build a home on it, farm it, make improvements, and certify that they have never borne arms against the United States. Two neighbors or friends were required to attest that the individual had fulfilled the requirements. This individual was known as a “homesteader.” If a homesteader was a Union soldier, time served in the Civil War was taken into consideration as a way to decrease the five-year residency requirement. Following six months of proven residency and a fee of $1.25 per acre, the government allowed the purchase of land titles. This meant that United States citizens or new immigrants seeking naturalization were eligible to homestead, as could single women and people of all races. Freed slaves would be

American Life in the Mid-1800s The socio-economic environment of America in the early 1840s catered to men with capital. Big farms were swallowing up smaller ones. A country of land monopoly was on the rise. The issue of slavery was front and center in American politics. Abraham Lincoln was elected in 1860 and the South seceded soon after. The Civil War ravaged the country. Precious metals and minerals were discovered in the west. Amid the backdrop of such polarizing realities, Lincoln and a few Congressional leaders sought to provide an opportunity for every American to own land and provide for his family. At the same time, they sought to create an incentive for people to move to and settle the west. The Homestead Act of 1862 On May 20, 1862, in the aftermath of the Civil War, President Lincoln signed into law the Homestead Act. For the price of an $18.00 filing fee with the local land office, individuals were granted 160-acre

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An 1869 broadside pamphlet encourages Homesteading in Nevada. Photo courtesy of the Duke University Library

eligible upon becoming U.S. citizens under the Fourteenth Amendment of 1868. The Homestead Act cleared the way for westward expansion for those individuals who had the fortitude and strength to go the distance. Challenges to the Act were many: The wording was ambiguous. With little oversight, much of the land went to speculators, cattlemen, miners, lumbermen, and railroads. Home-building requirements were specified in inches rather than feet, the exact measurements having never been noted. Bleak and unpredictable weather, remote locations, and inconsistent water provoked many homesteaders to leave their claims before the five-year requirement was met. Nonetheless, the availability of cheap land for farming was enough to entice 1.6 million people to succeed, homesteading 10% of U.S. land or 270 million acres, land that went from the public domain to private hands. The railroad was the biggest contributor to westward expansion bringing people, homesteaders included, and all that was needed to support personal and community success. New towns sprang up across the country. States were carved from territories. Homesteading and the west grew together. The 1870s and 1880s found the railroad industry charging exorbitant fees for farmers to transport and store their produce. In response, farmers initiated cooperatives and became politically active as they sought to improve their economic conditions. Influence of the National Grange of the Order of the Patrons of Husbandry As readers probably know, founded in 1867, the National Grange of the Order of the Patrons of Husbandry was created to advance methods of agriculture and to promote the social and economic needs of farmers throughout the United States. Membership in the early days included nearly 1,000,000 farmers, testament to the importance of agriculture. It was the Grange’s belief that agriculture supported the country and

the county would, in turn, support farmers. The Grange assisted farmers in purchasing machinery, building grain elevators, lobbying for government regulations to keep the railroad industry from charging unrealistic shipping fees, and providing a network to support farm families. Effect of the Homestead Act of 1862 on Native Americans While homesteading the west spawned opportunity for many, it created unease and conflict between the newcomers and Native The 1900 Prescott, Arizona homestead Americans whose home the settlers application for Virgil Earp, famous for the now invaded. Treaties with the U.S. Gunfight at the O.K. Corral government were not honored. Photo in Public Domain Buffalo herds decreased. Water was diverted. Unsustainable farming then opened to homesteaders. methods were practiced. Non-native Under the Dawes Act, 65% of tribal crops were planted. Fences were built. The Native Americans found lands were lost until the Act was repealed themselves pushed farther from in 1934. Homesteading was not always homelands or pushed onto reservations the primary driver of Native American that contained no viable soil for food displacement. In some states, railroads, sustainability. While Native American large cattle ranchers, mining interests, and displacement began years before the land speculators often played a larger role. Homestead Act, the introduction of large numbers of homesteaders and others accelerated tribal dislocation. The Dawes Act of 1887 sectioned Native American reservations into 160-acre allotments. The Act gave the head of each family 160 acres of farmland or 320 acres of grazing land. United States citizenship was offered only to those families who accepted an allotment of land. This was considered comparable to the Homestead Act of 1862. There were differences, however. With the Dawes Act, the tribes controlled their allotted land and those lands were not owned by the federal government. However, much of their allotted land was not suited to farming. Large tracts were often leased to non-Native American farmers and ranchers. Once Native families claimed their allotments, any remaining tribal lands were designated as “surplus” and were given to non-Native families. This land was

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Repeal of the Homestead Act of 1862 In 1976, the Homestead Act of 1862 was repealed. The Federal Land Policy and Management Act took its place. Its purpose was to keep public lands under federal ownership. The new Act gave the Federal Bureau of Land Management the authority to manage federal lands. Alaska allowed homesteading for another decade, but in 1986 homesteading under the Homestead Act of 1862 officially ceased. Homesteading in today’s environment, rural or urban, is entirely different. It does not require the complex requirements of years ago. Homestead laws differ for each state. Modern homesteading is as creative as the homesteader. Join me in upcoming articles as I explore the trials, tribulations, and triumphs of homesteading in the twentyfirst century.

Summer’s Reward: By Ann Olson Bercher

Melons!

Lecturer, National Grange President, State Grange of Minnesota Certified Culinary Specialist

Late summer in Minnesota means that the farmer’s markets are overflowing with all sorts of delicious fruits and vegetables. As the summer slips past and the fall routine is just around the corner, there is great joy in the fact that the melons are ripening! Many summer picnics and family meals have included juicy, sweet watermelons; musky, savory cantaloupes; and mildly sweet and aromatic honeydews. Most of those

melons were probably purchased at the grocery store, shipped in from somewhere else. You never really know if a melon is ripe until you cut into it. It takes a sharp eye and a sensitive nose to select a reasonably ripe melon at the supermarket. Melons at the farmer’s markets are much easier to select with greater success. First, about the melons. Cantaloupes and Honeydews are fruits of Cumumis melo, a close relative of the cucumber. They are native of the semi-arid subtropics of Asia and were domesticated in Central Asia. They arrived in the Mediterranean at the beginning of the 1st century AD and were considered a common symbol of fertility, abundance and luxury with their large size and rapid growth. These melons fall into two general groups, summer melons and winter melons. Summer melons are highly aromatic and highly perishable. They have a milder flavor than the winter melons. They usually have rough rinds and include true cantaloupes and muskmelons. While the names cantaloupe and muskmelon are often used interchangeably, they are two very different melons.

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Here in the United States, we won’t see many true cantaloupes as they are grown in subtropical areas and are rarely grown in the US. They have a smooth rind rather than the deeply netted rind common to muskmelons. Muskmelons have beautiful orange flesh that is an excellent source of beta-carotene. Muskmelon varieties include Rocky Ford, which has green flesh, Ambrosia, and Persian. Winter melons are less aromatic and less perishable. These melons usually have smooth or wrinkled rinds and include the honeydews, casaba, and canaries melons. Watermelon is a distant relative of the other melons from the family Citrullus lanatus. The Egyptians were eating it 5,000 years ago. More watermelons are grown worldwide than all the other melons combined. A significant difference between watermelons and the other melons is the structure of their seeds. Where other melons have clusters of seeds in the middle of the melon itself, able to be scooped out, watermelon seeds are interspersed throughout the flesh of the fruit.

should be smooth, round and yield to gentle pressure. Honeydew melons should be green in color, not white or yellow. The blossom and stem ends should give in to light pressure. Choose symmetrical watermelons. Look at the field spot, the area that touched the ground. It should be a golden, creamy yellow color, not green or white. Smell the melon. Cantaloupe/muskmelons should have a sweet, musky aroma. Honeydews should have a strong, sweet smell. Weigh the melons. Compare them and select melons that have the greatest weight for their size. Seedless watermelon actually contains small,

Before you store or cut into any melon, be sure to

underdeveloped seeds. Watermelons have a smooth

wash the rind well. Any dirt, debris or contaminants

rind. The classic watermelon has deep red flesh and is

on the outside of a melon will be transferred to the

rich source of antioxidants. A good watermelon has a

fruit inside when a knife passes through the rind.

crunchy, crispy, yet tender consistency, a moderately

Most melons are best when cut just before serving.

sweet taste and a delicate, almost green aroma.

Any cut melons may be stored in the refrigerator well

Vine-ripening is important for all melons because

wrapped.

they don’t store starch and so get no sweeter after

Melons are generally used fresh in salads, cold

harvest. A remnant of stem on an aromatic melon

soups and drinks. They add beautiful color and a variety

indicates that the melon was harvested before

of flavors that go surprisingly well with many other

becoming fully ripe, while all winter melons (and true

fruits and vegetables.

cantaloupes), even ripe ones, carry a piece of stem. The aroma of melons may continue to develop off the vine but will not be the same as the aroma of vine-ripened fruit. Selecting a great melon at the farmer’s market or supermarket requires a few steps. Look at the melons. Be sure there are no cuts, blemishes or bruises. When choosing

cantaloupes/muskmelons,

look for raised, cream-colored ridges that look like netting. The stem end

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President’s Recipes

The recipes in this section can use any kind of melon - have fun and substitute to get a different flavor profile, depending on what you have ripe and available!

shared by President Betsy E. Huber

Melon-Prosciutto Skewers 1 cantaloupe 12 fresh basil leaves 8 oz. mozzarella balls 12 slices prosciutto Balsamic glaze, for drizzling One dozen 5” skewers 1. Halve cantaloupe, then scoop out and discard seeds. Use a melon baller to scoop out 24 balls. 2. Assemble skewers: Layer cantaloupe, basil, mozzarella balls, prosciutto, and a second cantaloupe

Spiced Cantaloupe 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour ¾ tsp ground cinnamon ¾ tsp salt ½ tsp ground ginger ½ tsp baking soda ½ tsp baking powder 1 cup sugar 2 eggs ½ cup vegetable oil 1 tsp vanilla 1 cup cantaloupe, grated

ball until you have 12 skewers. 3. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and serve immediately.

Chilled Cantaloupe Soup 1 extra large cantaloupe 1/2 cup orange juice 1 cup Greek yogurt 1/4 cup honey (more or less to taste) 1 Tbsp. white wine vinegar Salt - to taste Orange wedges and basil or mint sprigs for serving 1. Cut the melon in half and remove seeds and fibers. Slice, peel, cut into 1/2-inch cubes, and place in a large bowl. 2. Add orange juice, yogurt, honey, and vinegar. Puree with immersion blender or in batches in a food processor or blender until smooth. 3. Adjust sweetness with honey and add a pinch of salt to taste. 4. Garnish with orange slices or basil or mint sprigs when serving. Can be made 1-2 days early. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

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Tea Cake

Makes one loaf

1. Heat oven to 350 degrees. Oil and flour a 5X8 loaf pan. 2. In a medium bowl, combine flour, cinnamon, salt, ginger, baking soda and baking powder. 3. In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, eggs, oil and vanilla until slightly frothy. 4. Fold in the grated cantaloupe. 5. Fold in dry ingredients until just blended; do not over mix. 6. Pour batter into loaf pan and bake 50 – 60 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out dry. 7. Let cool on rack, then remove from pan.

Cantaloupe

Salsa

2 cups bite-size piece cantaloupe 1 ½ cups diced fresh tomatoes or 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained ½ red onion, diced ¼ yellow bell pepper, diced 2 jalapeno peppers, diced 1 Tbsp lemon juice 1 Tbsp lime juice 1 clove garlic, minced 1-2 tsp olive oil Salt and pepper to taste

1. Combine cantaloupe, tomatoes, onion, peppers, juices and garlic together in a bowl. 2. Add enough olive oil to moisten. 3. Season to taste with salt and pepper. 4. Refrigerate 1 – 2 hours for flavors to combine. 5. Serve with chips, or alongside grilled meats or vegetables.

Frozen Watermelon Lemon

Cream Tarts

makes 8 tarts

2 cups seedless watermelon, cubed 1 cup fat-free plain Greek yogurt 2 Tbsp honey 1 ½ tsp grated lemon zest 1 Tbsp fresh lemon juice 2 Tbsp sliced almonds, toasted 1. Line 8 muffin cups with paper liners. 2. Puree watermelon in a food processor or blender. Divide between the muffin cups. 3. Freeze for 1 hour or until set. 4. Combine yogurt, honey, lemon zest and lemon juice. Spoon over the watermelon layer. 5. Sprinkle with almonds and freeze 1 hour or until firm. 6. Serve topped with lemon slices if desired.

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Melon Basil Mozzarella

Salad

with Prosciutto

3 ounces prosciutto, torn onto small pieces 4 cups mixed melon, cubed 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved 1-2 cups fresh basil leaves, roughly torn 8 ounces mozzarella at room temperature, torn into bitesize pieces ¼ cup mixed salted nuts or seeds, toasted ¼ cup olive oil 3 Tbsp balsamic vinegar 1 Tbsp lemon juice 1-2 Tbsp honey, to taste 2 tsp fig preserves or jam Red pepper flakes Salt and pepper to taste

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 2. Arrange prosciutto in an even layer on the parchment and bake 8-10 minutes until crispy. 3. Arrange the melons, tomatoes and basil leaves in a salad bowl or platter. 4. Combine olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, honey, fig preserves, in a small bowl or jar and whisk or shake to combine. Season with red pepper flakes, salt and pepper. 5. Drizzle half the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to coat. 6. Add the mozarella, nuts or seeds and then the remaining vinaigrette. 7. Top with crispy prosciutto.

Spicy

Grilled Watermelon

¼ cup honey ¼ cup fresh lime juice 2 tsp cayenne powder 1 tsp salt 1 medium watermelon, cut into 1-inch wedges ½ cup mint, chiffonade 1. Prepare charcoal or gas grill. 2. Whisk together all ingredients except mint in a small bowl. 3. Brush each side of watermelon slices with the spice mixture. 4. Place slices on grill and cook until grill marks appear, about 2 minutes per side. 5. Remove from grill, sprinkle with mint and serve.

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THE LAST

Word

By Lillian Booth

Chairperson, Grange Youth Fair Advisory Committee Secretary, California State Grange

Families are looking for the Grange! And the National Grange Youth Fair Program is their answer!

your Fair Premium Book, the Grange Youth can exhibit with all other Youth Groups and compete under the same conditions. The Grange program is designed to develop critical

Families are looking for the Grange right now. The Grange

thinking skills, leadership, respect, responsibility, good-

brings a unique dynamic and diversity for families to thrive.

sportsmanship, and most of all, ethical behaviors. All of these

The multi-generational and multi-cultural aspect of the Grange

fall in to Faith, Hope, Charity and Fidelity – the pillars of the

allows families to participate, learn, and grow together.

Grange.

The tradition of the Grange supporting each member’s

Many times, I have heard the statement “Our Grange

voice in meetings and votes is becoming unique in the world

doesn’t need the Grange Youth Fair Program here. We have

of non-profit organizations.

other options.”

The Grange is growing in membership. Currently, a good

Make no mistake, the Grange is supportive of any Youth

amount of this growth is being derived from the National

agricultural programs locally available.

Grange Youth Fair Program. The red vests with the bright

exclusive; Grange is inclusive.

Grange is not

yellow Grange emblem and “YOUTH” written across the

All abilities, levels of knowledge - from novice to expert

bottom are the most eye-catching and attention-getting tools

– are welcome. Providing that environment of support and

for membership right now.

family for the Grange youth is essential in their development.

When the Grange Youth exhibitors enter the show ring, greet the public, or participate in community activities in their red vests people start asking “How does our family join the

What makes Grange especially unique is the ability to allow all generations an equal voice. Many Youth today feel discounted and discouraged because they aren’t provided a forum to speak up – hence too

Grange?” The answer to that question is easy – come on in. The

much social media and isolation. Grange provides that open

National Grange Youth Fair Program is reaching families

floor to bring new ideas and a family to support the efforts. If

everywhere in the western states. California, Nevada, and

it succeeds, that’s great! If it doesn’t succeed, then that is a

Washington States have membership growth exponentially.

lessons learned. Grange provides that safe space to learn in.

Oregon and Idaho are working on starting programs in their

Grange also allows exhibitors to show in any animal species, but not the same species in different groups. The

states as well. The Grange Youth Fair Program is designed for Grange

Youth who choose to do this, work doubly hard.

Youth, ages 5 to 19, to participate together to exhibit in their

At a recent fair, there was a Grange Youth member showing

fairs – whether in livestock exhibition or in the still exhibits -

in the market sheep ring in her Grange vest. As soon as she

art, sewing, woodworking or metal arts. If there is an exhibit in

was done, her Mom took the sheep and the red vest. She ran

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to the beef barn where Dad handed her the FFA jacket and

Grange. You can become a mentor, project leader assistant

the steer. She went in to the beef showmanship ring as an FFA

and project leader. Share those skills you worked so hard to

exhibitor.

earn and see how you can help the next generations.

Next year, she plans to show just for Grange and her sister

Getting started in a Youth Fair Program begins with

is going to show both as FFA and as Grange with two different

checking the local rules of the Fairs and expositions. Maybe

projects.

you need help getting a letter of agreement with the Fair. Get

Some of you may ask “Why?” I ask “Why not?” More

a copy of your State Rules, County Rules, Local Rules for your

opportunities and experiences. And yes, more responsibility

fairs. The National Grange is putting together a team to help

for our Grange Youth to step up.

you navigate building a program in your area.

Your Grange should start a Youth Fair Program in

Try an experiment – cut an apple and count how many

conjunction with the Youth Committee and Junior Grange.

seeds are in that apple. Usually 8 to 10 seeds are found.

The Youth Fair Program creates that natural

mentorship

Then ask yourself – how many apples are in those 8 to 10

between the Youth members and the Junior Grange members.

seeds. The Grange Youth Fair Program, like all of Grange,

They help each other.

plants seeds for growth. Start planting seeds in your Grange.

In Grange – you age out of the Fair Program, but not the

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Grange Membership

BENEFITS Below is an overview of some of the benefits that are available to Grange members across the country. A full, detailed list can be viewed on the National Grange’s website: www.nationalgrange.org/benefits

SHOP

We have partnered with Office Depot/Office Max Lenovo, UPS Saving and TicketsatWork. When you shop at these locations or use these services, you are giving back to the National Grange and receiving special deals in the process.

FINANCE

The National Grange has partnered with TSYS Merchant Solutions, which has been serving merchants for more than 30 years and offers a payment processing program tailored to your business needs. If you have a small business, this advantage could help you.

TRAVEL

HEALTH

PHARMACY

INSURANCE

With discounts from Choice Hotels, Wyndham Hotels, Worldwide Hotel, and Avis, Budget, Hertz, and Enterprise rental car services, as well as RV accommodations with Harvest Hosts, these exclusive Grange benefits are sure to help you when planning your next vacation. Our partnerships with Life Line, Hear in America, Start Hearing, Comfort Keepers, and eHealth Medicare are sure to give you peace of mind about your health. We have multiple partnerships to help Grange members obtain discount pharmacy cards. CVS Caremark offers the RxSavings Plus Card. The U.S. Pharmacy Card is a free discount prescription card available to Grangers. Last offer excludes members in NC.

We have partnerships with Member Options, United of Omaha Life Insurance Company, AFLAC, Farmers Insurance, and pet insurance through Nationwide to give our members discounts on insurance rates and deals. Clouse Insurance Agency can help find the coverage you need to protect your Grange Halls. State-based and property-based restrictions apply. Contact agency directly. Excludes Washington, Oregon, California, Colorado, Idaho, Wyoming, and North Carolina.

... and many more plus new ones added regularly. Check our website for all active benefits. www.nationalgrange.org/benefits

Good Day! Volume 6, Issue 2

Articles inside

Life on the Homestead...

Extend fellowship beyond the doors of your Hall

President's Message

Legislative Affairs Update