Category: Quick Tips

Communication Shorts 03-02-2026

By Walter Boomsma,
MSG Communications Director
207 343-1842

Communication Shorts are brief (short) but important items posted for your information and use. Please send us your ideas and thoughts!

The Maine State Grange Office is located at 36 Anthony Avenue, Suite 102, Augusta, ME 04330.
 mainestategrange@gmail.com.

March Bulletin

The deadline for the March Printed Bulletin is March 14. Recent issues of the Bulletin are available on the Program Books and Information Page in the communications section.

Seeking Someone

Do you, your child, or your grandchild have some knowledge of WordPress? (For those unfamiliar, WordPress is an open-source content management system (CMS) that allows users to create, manage, and customize websites without needing advanced coding knowledge. The Maine State Grange Website uses it.) If so, let’s connect and explore some opportunities. I could use a few hours of volunteer help occasionally.

Journals of Proceedings

The 2024 Journal of Proceedings has been received and posted, a summary of State Session held in 2024. Note these are large files with many pages and photos.

Rapid Resource

We’re always seeking resources of potential interest to Grangers and Friends that are not necessarily specific to the Grange. These will be short and easy to digest. As an example, the first concerns finding and tracking scholarships. You can help! Let me know what you think and, by all means, submit ideas and suggestions.

What’s Going On?

St Patrick’s Day and Grange Month programs and events needed now!

Don’t forget to submit your special events and programs for our event calendar! We want people to know the Grange is thriving! Surely, there are lots of Grange things happening in Maine.

To Ponder…

“No idea is so antiquated that it was not once modern. No idea is so modern that it will not someday be antiquated.” 

attributed to Ellen Glasgow

An Idea for Your Grange

It’s a marriage made in heaven! There’s a consensus that food is an important component of events. How do you make that work for you?

Subscribe!

Remember, we don’t share your email address with anyone, and you get a weekly summary of what’s been posted. Subscribe here! Share that link with your members and Grange friends!

Online Directories Available 24-7

Thanks to those who help us keep these directories current by letting us know of changes!

  • The Directory of Granges features all Granges in the state with a contact person. Please make sure your listing is correct! Visitors to the site frequently consult these directories.
  • The ODD Directory features all state officers, directors, and deputies, along with their contact information. Updated January 16, 2026.

I Doubt It!

By Walter Boomsma
207 343-1842
Communications Director

I wonder if I’ll ever cease to be amazed by the number of scams being run on the Internet and Social Media. I can’t resist sharing this one because it might actually be considered funny.

So “Commander Kirkland” has reached out to “whom it may concern” with what might initially appear troubling news. He informs us “...you and your organization,  that the Federal Law Enforcement agencies of the United States of America in conjunction with Interpol, the World Security Council and the United Nations Amnesty International Program, are announcing a series of arrests and investigations concerning various Religious and Social organizations using a psychological torture, and brainwashing technique known as a ‘forgiveness tatoo’.

I’m reminded a bit of the old joke “You know it’s not going to be a good day when you find the Sixty Minute News Team waiting for you at the office.”

By the way, “forgiveness tattoos”(spelled correctly) are a real item readily found on the Internet. I don’t pretend to fully understand their value, but as far as I can see, they aren’t about brainwashing or torture.

“What is the scam?” you ask. I don’t know, I didn’t fall for it. But I suspect the first step was to get me to reply to the email. It’s interesting that a Federal Law Enforcement Commander is using a Gmail address. I’ll admit, I almost did reply out of curiosity.

You can fool some of the people some of the time and all of the people some of the time, but you can’t fool all of the people all of the time.

Attributed to Abraham Lincoln.

The updated version is

You can fool enough people some of the time to make a decent living.

Unknown

Just don’t be one of those people. And, perhaps more importantly, don’t let these attempts get you down. Think of them as an opportunity to demonstrate how smart you are. Just slow down and think! Wouldn’t you think a high-ranking federal law enforcement official would (among other things):

  • know how to spell the “tattoos” he is investigating
  • have an email address associated with his agency (and identify it)

No worries. Now, if you see the CNN News Team standing in front of the Grange Hall…

Communication Shorts 02-15-2026

By Walter Boomsma,
MSG Communications Director
207 343-1842

Communication Shorts are brief (short) but important items posted for your information and use. Please send us your ideas and thoughts!

The Maine State Grange Office is located at 36 Anthony Avenue, Suite 102, Augusta, ME 04330.
 mainestategrange@gmail.com.

February Bulletin

The February Bulletin is now available for download. Recent issues of the Bulletin are available on the Program Books and Information Page in the communications section.

Seeking Someone

Do you, your child, or your grandchild have some knowledge of WordPress? (For those unfamiliar, WordPress is an open-source content management system (CMS) that allows users to create, manage, and customize websites without needing advanced coding knowledge. The Maine State Grange Website uses it.) If so, let’s connect and explore some opportunities. I could use a few hours of volunteer help occasionally.

Rapid Resource

We’re always seeking resources of potential interest to Grangers and Friends that are not necessarily specific to the Grange. These will be short and easy to digest. As an example, the first concerns finding and tracking scholarships. You can help! Let me know what you think and, by all means, submit ideas and suggestions.

National Grange Notes

Remember, applications for National Grange Rural Life Initiative Grants are due by February 28, 2026. (You must submit through the online portal.)

Your Grange Presence

If your Grange has an active website or social media presence, please make sure to let us know! We maintain a list on the site and publicize them as a source of more information.

To ponder…

“I like to see a man proud of the place in which he lives. I like to see a man live so that his place will be proud of him.”

attributed to Abraham LIncoln

An Idea for Your Grange

I recently stumbled upon an organization offering a free “How to Write an Obituary” workshop. It might sound unusual at first, but offering some legacy-planning information could be a valuable service. Hospice workers, funeral directors, financial planners, etc., could be included.

What’s Going On?

St Patrick’s Day and Grange Month programs and events needed now!

Don’t forget to submit your special events and programs for our event calendar! We want people to know the Grange is thriving! Surely, there are lots of Grange things happening in Maine.

Subscribe!

Remember, we don’t share your email address with anyone, and you get a weekly summary of what’s been posted. Subscribe here! Share that link with your members and Grange friends!

Online Directories Available 24-7

Thanks to those who help us keep these directories current by letting us know of changes!

  • The Directory of Granges features all Granges in the state with a contact person. Please make sure your listing is correct! Visitors to the site frequently consult these directories.
  • The ODD Directory features all state officers, directors, and deputies, along with their contact information. Updated January 16, 2026.

Some Program Ideas for Granges

Based on the California State Grange Newsletter

A recent issue of the California State Grange included flyers for several programs offered across the state. There were plenty of pancake breakfasts and suppers. A few of the different events are:

  • Class in pressure canning
  • Toddler story time
  • Food and Karaoke
  • Homestead series
  • Sweetheart Dance
  • Grange Community Market
  • Masterpieces and Munchies (a series of fun, painting, and snacking)
  • Square Dance
  • Almond Festival (Remember, it’s California)
  • Fruit Tree Sale
  • Cowboy Poetry and Music Show
  • Zucchini Grand Prix (growing contest) and Harvest Festival
  • Amateur Radio Club
  • Sobriety Support Group
  • Mana and Munchies (includes a number of activities)
  • Monthly Flea Market
  • Grange Game Night

Many of these are not one-time events. Consistency matters.

What have you got planned? Remember to submit your event!

Cold Weather Tips for Farms

Based on an email from the MDACF.

Take Care in Extreme Temperatures

Farmers and animals need the same basic care in very cold weather. These reminders are for farmers of all experience levels and for those who support them.

  • Stay dry and dress in warm layers; keep skin covered.
  • Take regular breaks to warm up when working outside.
  • Check on farming friends and neighbors. Severe weather can add tasks and disrupt normal routines.

Signs of frostbite: red or painful skin; white or grayish-yellow patches; skin that feels hard, waxy, or numb.

Signs of hypothermia: shivering, extreme fatigue, confusion, trouble using hands, or slurred speech. If hypothermia is suspected, check body temperature and seek medical help immediately if it is below 95°F.

Reduce Stress and Plan Ahead

Pace yourself and plan ahead to reduce stress for both people and animals.

  • Make sure drinking water is unfrozen when animals need it; provide a safe alternative if repairs take time.
  • Focus first on essential tasks, such as animal care. Less-urgent work can wait until after the storm.

Ten Tips to Stay Safe Farming during Maine Winters.

Communication Shorts 02-2-2026

By Walter Boomsma,
MSG Communications Director
207 343-1842

Communication Shorts are brief (short) but important items posted for your information and use. Please send us your ideas and thoughts!

The Maine State Grange Office is located at 36 Anthony Avenue, Suite 102, Augusta, ME 04330.
 mainestategrange@gmail.com.

February Bulletin

The deadline for the February Bulletin is Valentine’s Day (February 14)! Recent issues of the Bulletin are available on the Program Books and Information Page in the communications section.

Rapid Resource

We’re introducing this on a trial basis. We’re always seeking resources of potential interest to Grangers and Friends that are not necessarily specific to the Grange. This will be short and easily digestible. As an example, the first concerns finding and tracking scholarships. You can help! Let me know what you think and, by all means, submit ideas and suggestions.

National Grange Rural Life Initiative Grants

Remember, applications are due by February 28, 2026. (You must submit through the online portal.

Your Grange Presence

If your Grange has an active website or social media presence, please make sure to let us know! We maintain a list on the site and publicize them as a source of more information.

To ponder…

“To lead people, walk beside them. As for the best leaders, the people do not notice their existence. The next best, the people honor and praise. The next, the people fear; and the next, the people hate. When the best leader’s work is done the people say, ‘We did it ourselves!“

Lao-Tsu

An Idea for Your Grange

What are you planning for Grange Month (April)?

What’s Going On?

Don’t forget to submit your special events and programs for our event calendar! We want people to know the Grange is thriving! Surely, there are lots of Grange things happening in Maine.

Subscribe!

Remember, we don’t share your email address with anyone, and you get a weekly summary of what’s been posted. Subscribe here! Share that link with your members and Grange friends!

Online Directories Available 24-7

Thanks to those who help us keep these directories current by letting us know of changes!

  • The Directory of Granges features all Granges in the state with a contact person. Please make sure your listing is correct! Visitors to the site frequently consult these directories.
  • The ODD Directory features all state officers, directors, and deputies, along with their contact information. Updated January 16, 2026.

Finding and Tracking Scholarships

Rapid Resource is a new feature being tested by the MSG Communications Department.

Scholarships are a form of gift aid—meaning they do not need to be repaid. Most are awarded outside of the college’s financial aid process, so it is up to you to search and apply. Start with the Finance Authority of Maine’s (FAME) scholarship search tool to explore opportunities.

Share this with high school students you know!

Communication Shorts 01-27-2026

By Walter Boomsma,
MSG Communications Director
207 343-1842

Communication Shorts are brief (short) but important items posted for your information and use. Please send us your ideas and thoughts!

The Maine State Grange Office is located at 36 Anthony Avenue, Suite 102, Augusta, ME 04330.
 mainestategrange@gmail.com.

February Bulletin

The deadline for the February Bulletin is Valentine’s Day (February 14)! Recent issues of the Bulletin can be found on the Program Books and Information Page in the communications section.

To ponder…

“Wherever you go, no matter what the weather, always bring your own sunshine.”

Anthony J. D’Angelo

An Idea for Your Grange

Create a Greeters Committee to welcome new residents. If you work with the town office, you could inform them of resources and encourage their engagement in local activities, including your Grange events.

Waz up?

Don’t forget to submit your special events and programs for our event calendar! We want people to know the Grange is thriving! Surely, there are lots of Grange things happening in Maine.

Subscribe!

Remember, we don’t share your email address with anyone, and you get a weekly summary of what’s been posted. Subscribe here! Share that link with your members and Grange friends!

Online Directories Available 24-7

Thanks to those who help us keep these directories current by letting us know of changes!

  • The Directory of Granges features all Granges in the state with a contact person. Please make sure your listing is correct! Visitors to the site frequently consult these directories.
  • The ODD Directory features all state officers, directors, and deputies, along with their contact information. Updated January 16, 2026.

Baby, it’s cold outside!

Image is AI-generated

And snowy! Not that you needed to be reminded. But we will remind everyone to check on their neighbors (not just when it’s cold and snowing). A phone call, text, or social media message can mean a lot!

Let’s stay safe together!

The impersonal hand of government can never replace the helping hand of a neighbor.

Hubert H. Humphrey