I first joined the Grange while on active duty in the Marines in Pennsylvania in 1986. My parents were quite active members back home in Maine. I loved going to the Grange fairs and suppers growing up in the 1950s and 1960s. During those decades, the Grange was still vibrant and active in Maine. The Granges in Pennsylvania are still quite active. Though I lived away for many years I maintained my Grange membership all these years. After I retired and returned to Maine I was able to participate in the Grange actively and enjoyed the Pomona and State Degree Initiations. Though our Grange closed and we had to join another Grange I am NOT discouraged. Some Granges are failing. However, others have taken on an inspiring resilience. I am eager to lend my abilities to help our Grange grow. What I love the most about the Grange is the friendliness and companionship that are meetings offer, as well as the social participation in those awesome potluck suppers. I believe the Grange can make a turn-around and once again become a beacon for social interaction and progress that so many will find attractive.
Barry E. Tracy
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