Tag: Grange Advocacy

National Grange Launches Rural Life Initiative Grants

The National Grange is doubling down on its commitment to revitalizing rural communities with the launch of two new competitive grant opportunities through the Rural Life Initiative.

On June 24, during the “GPS to Success” webinar, National Grange President Christine Hamp announced the launch of two new grant opportunities as part of the expansion of the Rural Life Initiative (RLI), a program designed in partnership with Grange Advocacy to strengthen rural communities through health, wellness, agriculture, and community projects and events.

If you missed the webinar, it is available to watch on the National Grange YouTube channel.

Following the 2024 successes of programs in seven pilot states and nearly 25 Granges that received mini-grants for holiday events, the National Grange is expanding the RLI program and eligibility for all Granges.

Successful examples of past projects include senior fitness classes, building Grange awareness at a community zucchini race event, vaccination and wellness clinics, a cancer research fundraising 5K, and more.

The grant opportunities are as follows:

$1,000 Summer Grants (30 available)

  • Projects must be completed and report submitted by September 30, 2025
  • Applications reviewed as received. Must apply by July 31, 2025.

$5,000 Long-Term Grants (2 available)

  • Projects must be completed and report submitted by December 31, 2025
  • Applications are due by July 31, 2025, with notification of grant winners on August 8, 2025.

Both grant opportunities are open to either local or State Granges.

While the main grant amounts are fixed, there are additional incentives available for completing projects and submitting reports on time, and for each new member gained through your project.

What are the grant requirements?

Because RLI aims to build stronger communities across the country, there are three main components to the grants:

  • You must include at least one partner organization beyond your Grange.
  • You must submit a current membership list with the application proposal.
  • You have the flexibility to choose topics based on local needs, but:
    • Projects cannot involve building improvements or equipment purchases. Projects must focus on recruiting and engaging new members.

“We are excited to see what Granges will create for their communities,” said Hamp. “The flexibility of this grant cycle encourages Granges to truly think outside of the box and the Grange ‘norms.’ I look forward to seeing the dynamic events and powerful programs that this grant helps make possible.”

During the June 24 webinar, presenters Beth Westbrook and Nona Bear offered guidance on how local Granges can apply for these grants, develop project ideas that align with the program’s mission, and measure community impact. Participants were encouraged to think creatively and collaboratively in identifying rural needs and proposing solutions.

The tips and tricks presented also encouraged Granges to go after other community-based grants, always aiming for success.

“These grants are about investing in the people, traditions, and future of rural America,” said webinar leader Beth Westbrook, a member of the Grange Advocacy Board of Directors. “By empowering Granges to take action on local priorities—from health to heritage—we’re building stronger, more connected communities.”

To watch the full announcement, visit the National Grange YouTube channel and view the full grant requirements and submit your applications at the Rural Life Initiative page on the National Grange website.

Communications Column – June 2025

By Walter Boomsma
207 343-1842
Communications Director

Did I Lie or Miscommunicate?

Our Memorial Day Program here in Maine’s #1 Town (alphabetically) includes an opportunity to chat with friends and neighbors—one of the joys of rural living. After the small crowd had mainly disappeared, I noticed two of those friends chatting intensely—one I hadn’t seen for some time. As I approached, I said, “I don’t mean to interrupt, but I must say ‘Hi’ to…” Of course, I said more than that as we needed to briefly “catch up” on each other’s health and doings.

Later, as I strolled to my vehicle, it occurred to me that I had lied. I had, in fact, fully intended to interrupt their conversation. I know both well, so I felt comfortable interrupting. I also trusted both would honestly have said “This is not a good time…” if that were the case. So why did I lie, even if it was unintentional?

As I consider that question, I am reminded of the conversation between Caesar and Mark Antony in Act 1, Scene 2.

“Let me have men about me that are fat, Sleek-headed men and such as sleep o’nights. Yond Cassius has a lean and hungry look, He thinks too much; such men are dangerous.”

While I’m not sure I am sleek-headed or have a lean and hungry look, I am occasionally accused of thinking too much. For Shakespeare Fans, we could think too much about the context of the quote. The digression is enticing, but to pursue it might make the point. “He thinks too much.”

Spontaneous communication means we are not thinking much. Had I been thinking more critically as I approached these friends, I might have said, “I’m sorry to interrupt, but I must say ‘Hi’ to…” If a similar situation develops, that would be a more likely line now that I’ve had time to think about it. I’m not sure that’s overthinking.

While the characters in Julius Caesar are speaking, it’s important to remember that they are not speaking spontaneously. They are speaking words that were written carefully. A writer has an opportunity to think and edit what will be “said.” Thanks to technology, we now have AI that helps with the written word. Even as I’ve written this, a great deal of thought has been given and many changes have been made. I can even ask the computer to read it aloud and listen to how it sounds. This might be another digression.

All this thinking ultimately aims at the continuous improvement of our communication. It’s admittedly easier when communication is written, but the patterns are similar. Over forty years ago, I taught an interpersonal skills course that primarily focused on communication when speaking and listening. “When your initial response is to reject or ignore, clarify and confirm what the speaker is saying.” The idea behind it was to ensure you understood what the speaker was saying and why they were saying it. Students who “got it,” realized that it was equally important to understand that when they were speaking, they should be clear on what they were saying and why they were saying it.

Communication should be about understanding. During my days as a real estate instructor, I will never forget an instructor’s meeting during which a colleague said, “I want to be sure we are all saying (teaching) the same thing.” I couldn’t resist responding that I hoped our students would all hear the same thing, but doubted it. Let’s not forget that while we think words have meaning, ultimately, people give meaning to those words. It’s not an exact science and never will be.

Social media offers endless opportunities for miscommunication. A recent post reported the death of three children, allegedly at the hands of their father. One commenter wrote, in part, “I am angry at those poor babies who were murdered by their father…” If we think before reacting, we can conclude she probably wasn’t angry at the babies. She was probably angry at the situation. If she were a politician, there would soon be a news story announcing that she was angry at the murdered children, perhaps even speculating that they were somehow responsible for their own deaths. It wouldn’t take much effort to turn her miscommunication into a lie.

Speakers and writers should attempt to communicate accurately. Listeners and readers should attempt to hear and read accurately. That involves some discipline and thinking. Of course, skill helps, but the focus needs to move beyond communicating to understanding.

This article was initially posted on the Brain Leaks and Musings Site by Mr. Boomsma, educator and author.

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Chaplain’s View – June 2025

Christine Hebert, MSG Chaplain
(207) 743-5277

My Journey

I beg assistance, God of my journey,

To accept that all of life is only a loan to me.

To believe beyond this moment.

To accept your courage when mine might fail.

To hold all of life in open hands.

To treasure all as gifts and blessings.

To look at the painful part of my life and to grow through it.

To allow love to embrace me on days that might feel empty and lonely

To receive the truth of Your presence.

Joyce Rupp, O.S.M.

God doesn’t leave you. You leave Him.

Yardscaping-Is your lawn truly green?

Reprinted with permission from an enewsletter published by Maine Representative James White.

An attractive, carpet-like lawn adds value and enjoyment to any home; however, these benefits can come with a cost to the environment.  Lawn care practices can impact water quality.  At risk are lakes, streams, and eventually the ocean — the send point of all watersheds.

The pursuit of the “perfect” lawn now drives many homeowners to use an unprecedented volume of herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, fertilizers, and herbicide-fertilizer combinations known as weed and feed products.  This offers little or no benefit to turf.  

By applying horticultural knowledge instead of pesticides and fertilizers, YARDSCAPING practices can create quality turf that delivers recreational and eye-pleasing benefits.

YARDSCAPING is not about using good chemicals instead of bad ones.  YARDSCAPERS, conversely, put to work horticultural principles that deliver robust turf and landscapes that demand less of any product!  You can too by following the practices outlined in the publication Is Your Lawn Truly Green?  Sage Advice from Top Northeast Experts (PDF). For more information about Maine YARDSCAPING, please click here.

Maine Farmer Resource Network

The Maine Farmer Resource Network is a coalition of Maine agriculture agencies and organizations working together to connect all Maine farmers to resources for farm business success. Visit the MFRN website for resources on Farm Business Planning, Managing Farm Risk, Marketing, Farmer Mental Health, and more.

MFRN News and Announcements

Grange Heirloom — June 2025

Grange Heirlooms are snippets from the lessons of the Grange as taught in the Rituals and Declaration of Purposes.

Use the icons below to share this Grange Heirloom on social media and help others understand what the Grange stands for! If this heirloom has a particular meaning for you, click the “leave a comment” link at the left and share your comment with us!

For additional information and resources regarding the Heirloom Program, visit the Heirloom Resource Page on the Maine State Grange Website.

ATV Season Safety and Fun

Reprinted with permission from an e-newsletter published by Maine Senator Stacey Guerin.

Maine is a beautiful place to ride, with thousands of miles of scenic trails winding through peaceful forests and small rural towns. Always check with the local club to make sure the trails are open. You can also find trail news and notices on the Bureau of Parks and Lands website.

Many ATV trails in Maine exist thanks to the generosity of private landowners who allow access. Here’s how you can do your part to keep Maine’s ATV trails open for generations to come:

  • Stay on marked ATV trails. ATV trails have green and white signs. Remember, not all snowmobile trails are ATV trails;
  • Respect closed trail signs;
  • Never drink and ride;
  • Tread lightly – Don’t tear up the trail;
  • Remember that modified exhausts are illegal;
  • Be respectful on ATV access routes – yield to all traffic and never pass a vehicle;
  • Help prevent wildfires. Stay on marked trails, avoid riding in dry vegetation, discard smoking materials appropriately and call 911 if you see a fire;
  • Register your ATV: For every ATV registration purchased, over 2/3 of the fee goes directly into the trail maintenance fund;
  • Support a local ATV club by donating your time and/or money.

ATV registration renewals can be completed online. New registrations must be done through a registration agent such as a town office or the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (MDIFW) main office in Augusta. For more information about ATV rules and laws in Maine, visit MDIFW’s ATV webpage. 

Highland Lake Places Flags

Highland Lake Grange 87, Westbrook, placed flags at Highland Lake Cemetery. The flags are supplied by Stephen Manchester American Legion Post 62. The Grange has been assisting the American Legion with placing flags for several years.

Mill Stream Places Flags

Mill Stream Grange members (l-r) Paul Lavender, Debbie Lavender, Ingrid Grenon, Jill Sampson, Laurie Cunningham, Natalie Heck, Kirsten Heck, and Allan Harville met recently to place flags on the graves of military service veterans at three cemeteries in Vienna.  Mill Stream is honored and proud to be able to participate in this community service project. The town of Vienna provides the flags every year…a special thanks to Chris Smith, selectman, for always making sure we have the flags in time for Memorial Day. Also, thanks to member Kathy Berry, who was the photographer.

Ag Trade Show Survey

Reprinted with permission from an e-newsletter published by Maine Representative James White.

The Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation, and Forestry (MDACF) is thinking about adding “Saturday Events” to their 2026 Agricultural Trades Show and wants your input.  They are gathering feedback before they finalize decisions and are asking the public to participate in a brief survey and to help spread the word to farmers, agricultural businesses, and anyone interested in attending next year’s trades show.

The Maine Agricultural Trades Show, hosted annually by the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation, and Forestry, is a premier event for farmers, producers, and the public to explore Maine’s dynamic agricultural sector.

The MDACF puts on a bustling trade show floor, with exhibits from equipment suppliers, service providers, and agricultural organizations.  Attendees can participate in conferences, certification courses, and workshops covering topics such as sustainable farming, food systems, and natural resource management.  The Maine Agricultural Trades Show also offers opportunities to connect with experts, learn about new technologies, and discover local food and farming initiatives.

To participate in the survey and provide your input for next year’s show, click here.