Tag: Grange Membership

Notes from National – June 2024

  • Register for the 158th National Grange Convention in Bettendorf, Iowa, November 12-16, 2024. Information and registration links can be found at http://www.nationalgrange.org/158thconvention. Early Bird Registration will close on July 31, so if you want a discount on your registration fee, jump in now!
  • Subscribe to the National Grange’s Good Day! magazine. Only $16 a year gives you access to our print or digital subscription. Learn more about the magazine at http://www.nationalgrange.org/goodday or the digital issue at http://www.issuu.com/grangegoodday. The July issue is out at the printer now, but we might still be able to get your name on the list.!
  • We are also looking for people to submit their Grange’s news so we can feature them in the Grange Today! newsletter or in Good Day! magazine.
  • The National Grange has a new podcast called “The Grange Hall,” which releases a new episode every other Wednesday. Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, or iHeartRadio. You can also listen on PodBean, the National Grange website, or watch on YouTube. Be sure to like and subscribe! If you have comments or questions, or if you’d like to recommend a member of YOUR Grange to be featured, you can contact us at grangehallpod@gmail.com.
  • Are there topics you would like to see covered in a future Zoom from a National Grange staff member, department, or officer? Please let us know! We’re always working to ensure our topics align with what our members want or need to hear from us.
  • The National Grange Social Media Calendar is available. This is intended to be a guide for State and Community Granges on topics/events that may be used to enhance social media. By no means is it a suggestion to post ALL of these things, but if you’re looking to get out of a rut or expand your social media reach, this could also be a great resource.
  • Many National Grange events are recorded and archived. If you missed an online event and would like to view it, please visit the National Grange YouTube channel at http://www.youtube.com/nationalgrange. 
  • Follow National Grange on Social Media! We’re on Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), LinkedIn, TikTok, and YouTube! This is generally the quickest and most up-to-date location to find out what’s happening at the National Grange.

Notes from National are gleaned from an email provided by Phil Vonada, National Grange Communications Director.

Membership Moments – June 2024

By Rick Grotton,
Membership Committee Director
207 582-5915

This month, we will go into more depth on this important part of gaining membership. Doesn’t it seem like almost everyone you ask about Grange has never heard of it or has heard of Grange but knows nothing about it? Many will tell you they had a relative who belonged a while back or some will say they briefly belonged but no more. However, they cannot define Grange. This is really sad. Who will join an organization they know nothing about or have just heard about? I knew nothing about Grange when I joined, but I found out there were many Granges in my area at the time. I’m sure these Granges were active with meetings and events posted in the papers, but like most people, I did not pay attention because it wasn’t something that interested me, or nobody had spoken to me about Grange.  With membership levels elevated at the time and the number of Granges around, how come we still knew nothing about Grange? Sure, they advertised public suppers and dances, but was that enough? Evidently not. Some of the mentioned Granges are still active; however, some of those that closed did not hold membership drives or lost interest even with a good number of members. 

 Each community with a Grange should know what is happening within it’s walls at all times. In Chelsea, we have been organizing public events, involving the community, getting involved in community events, showing up at town meetings, getting involved with the schools, and educating our citizens. We are a small but lively group and I am very happy to be a member of this Grange. It is up to us and all members around the state to educate others on our colorful past and important part of American history not recorded in any history books from schools.

I had belonged to other well-known organizations, such as the Knights of Columbus and the Jaycees, and appreciated their work and efforts. Of course, we have all heard of the Lions Clubs, the Elks, the Odd Fellows, the Masons, and other community organizations such as 4H. But why not the Grange? With our longevity and colorful past, it should be known to all. Today, the Grange is still an important organization for farmers and communities alike. We need to band together to show that we still exist and are there to help. Just holding public suppers and bingo is not enough. We need to grow and need members to carry on our work and traditions. So be visible, educate, and be proud of our worthy organization called the Grange. I am.

Notes from National – June 2024

  • Register for the 158th National Grange Convention in Bettendorf, Iowa, November 12-16, 2024. Information and registration links can be found at http://www.nationalgrange.org/158thconvention 
  • Subscribe to the National Grange’s Good Day! magazine. Only $16 a year gives you access to our print or digital subscription. Learn more about the magazine at http://www.nationalgrange.org/goodday or the digital issue at http://www.issuu.com/grangegoodday. The July issue will be here before you know it!
  • Subscribe to Grange Today! at http://www.nationalgrange.org/subscribe. Grange Today! is replacing the current Patrons Chain & View from the Hill, and will be released on the 2nd and 4th Fridays of the month.
  • We are also looking for people to submit their Grange’s news so we can feature them in the newsletters or in Good Day! magazine.
  • The National Grange has a new podcast called “The Grange Hall,” which releases a new episode every other Wednesday. Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, or iHeartRadio. You can also listen on PodBean, the National Grange website, or watch on YouTube! Be sure to like and subscribe! If you have comments or questions, or if you’d like to recommend a member of YOUR Grange to be featured, you can contact us at grangehallpod@gmail.com.
  • Are there topics you would like to see covered in a future Zoom from a National Grange staff member, department, or officer? Please let us know! We’re always working to ensure our topics align with what our members want or need to hear from us.
  • The National Grange Social Media Calendar is available. This is intended to be a guide for State and Community Granges of topics/events that may be used to enhance social media. By no means is it a suggestion to post ALL of these things, but if you’re looking to get out of a rut or expand your social media reach. This could also be a great resource for Grange Lecturers/Program Directors who are looking for new programming ideas.
  • Many National Grange events are recorded and archived. If you missed an online event and would like to view it, please visit the National Grange YouTube channel at http://www.youtube.com/nationalgrange. 
  • Follow National Grange on Social Media! We’re on Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), LinkedIn, TikTok, and YouTube! This is generally the quickest and most up-to-date location to find out what’s happening at the National Grange.

Notes from National are gleaned from an email provided by Phil Vonada, National Grange Communications Director.

Membership Moments – May 2024

By Rick Grotton,
Membership Committee Director
207 582-5915

Spring has sprung and warmer weather has us out and about and ready to plant our crops.  Enjoy the wonders of Nature as the seed becomes a healthy plant, then bearing fruit. We are grateful for all the resources that Nature provides so we can have a bountiful harvest.

I am pleased to hear that the Degree Days in April were successful as well as Granges that recruited new members. I know of fifty, yes fifty, new members who saw the degrees or were obligated last month.  Our Grange had 2 who were obligated. Out of the fifty new members, three Granges alone totaled 36; Fairview (Smithfield) had 18, Meericoneag (Harpswell) had 10, and Androscoggin (Greene) had 8. I am also aware that Deering Grange (Portland) took in 4 new members! Keep up the good work!

The new members will need proper training in the ritual and floorwork. Please offer to help mentor them and provide them with the resources and information they can use to become active in their communities. In previous columns, it was explained how your Grange can help these new members. For a quick review, remember to greet them and make them feel welcome, listen to their ideas, get to know their interests, and have an active Grange for them to be able to participate in events. I am available to attend and mentor if needed. Membership takes work, but we are well equipped to handle the task with ease. Enjoy!

Fairview Grange Success!

Fourteen new members were welcomed to the fold

Fairview Grange in Smithfield recently held a wildly successful open meeting with 42 townspeople attending. Master/president Rick Watson said it was exciting to see that the Grange is important to the community adding, “We discussed expectations, wants and needs along with how the Grange can serve as a community or event center and the collaborative relationship with The North Pond Association. These three groups with different needs can work together to benefit the community.”

Twelve people joined the Grange immediately following the meeting and two more have since decided to join!

The labors of the day are not complete in Smithfield!

Rick also expressed thanks to all who attended, helped set up, or tore down, and especially to those who joined. In addition, he gave a shout-out to Kings Restaurant up the street for sending some desserts and a thank you to the Grange ladies who baked. “You’ll never go home hungry from a Grange meeting,” he pledged.

Those who attended the meeting completed questionnaires asking for input regarding ideas for Grange events and programs and an inventory of the types of activities people would be willing to help with!

Fairview Grange meets next on Tuesday, May 28, 2024 at 6:30 pm. Visit the Fairview Grange Facebook Page for more information! Fairview Grange is located at 826 Village Road in Smithfield Maine.

Introducing Grange Hall Podcasts

“The Grange Hall” podcast, a new platform that delves into the rich history and future of the Grange, has officially launched! This exciting venture was announced in November and made its web debut during Grange Month.

Join hosts Meagan McDonald (WA) and Philip Vonada (PA) as they interview Grange members from around the country about their Grange story, their Grange’s history, and where they see the Grange going in the future – and anywhere the conversation goes in between.

The Grange Hall aims to welcome diverse voices within the Grange, highlighting local members who are “movers and shakers,” making big moves in their Granges and maybe across the country.

Remember, this podcast is not just for current Grangers! We extend a warm invitation to share this podcast with friends, family, and anyone who may be interested in or curious about the Grange. We also hope that current members will listen and be inspired by the incredible things that are happening in Granges around the country.

The first podcast was released on April 17, 2024. National Grange plans to release a new episode every other Wednesday.

Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon/Audible, or iHeartRadio. You can also listen on the National Grange website, on PodBean, or watch the video version on YouTube!

Do you know a Grange member who you believe would be a “good fit” for the podcast? Email your suggestion to grangehallpod@gmail.com and explain why they should be featured. Please include your Grange, State, and contact information for your suggestions.

Notes from National – May 2024

  • Subscribe to the National Grange’s Good Day! magazine. Just $16 a year gets you access to our print or digital subscription. Learn more about the magazine at http://www.nationalgrange.org/goodday or the digital issue at http://www.issuu.com/grangegoodday. The April issue has hit mailboxes and the July issue will be here before you know it!
  • Subscribe to the Patrons Chain and View from the Hill at http://www.nationalgrange.org/subscribe. These newsletters are released every Friday, containing information about National Grange programs, events, and more.
  • Are there topics you would like to see covered in a future Zoom from a National Grange staff member, department, or officer? Please let us know! We’re always working to ensure our topics are in line with what our members want or need to hear from us.
  • The National Grange Social Media Calendar is available. This is intended to be a guide for State and Community Granges of topics/events that may be used to enhance social media. By no means is it a suggestion to post ALL of these things, but if you’re looking to get out of a rut or expand your social media reach. This could also be a great resource for Grange Lecturers/Program Directors who are looking for new programming ideas.
  • Many National Grange events are recorded and archived – if you missed an online event and would like to see it, please visit the National Grange YouTube channel at http://www.youtube.com/nationalgrange. 
  • Follow National Grange on Social Media! We’re on Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), LinkedIn, TikTok, and YouTube!

Notes from National are gleaned from an email provided by Phil Vonada, National Grange Communications Director.

Membership Moments – April 2024

By Rick Grotton,
Membership Committee Director
207 582-5915

This year is the 150th anniversary of the Maine State Grange and many of the earlier established Granges, which were organized in 1874. I attended the 150th anniversary of Excelsior #5, the earliest of the surviving Granges. It was a great celebration with music, awards, a history presentation, a great meal (of course!!), and a wonderful attendance of both Grange members and non-members. Attendees were amazed to see the history of the Grange in that area and the changes that happened over the years.

 Hopefully, all Granges will have a tribute to the 150th Maine State Grange anniversary, as well as those who also will be celebrating this year. It is a great milestone; one we are proud of and willing to share with our communities. Advertise and be proud; let the word out and invite the public to celebrate with you. This is one of the best ways to attract new members! Plan your event with a neighboring Grange or with your Pomona. Don’t miss out on new membership; take action and open those doors!!!

I am excited to hear of the results of the two degree days in April. Remember, make sure all your members who are new or only had an obligation ceremony receive a chance to see the full degrees to enhance their knowledge of lessons and symbolism. The next one is April 21, beginning at 1 p.m. at the Maine State Grange Headquarters in Augusta and presented by Androscoggin Pomona.

Membership Moments – March 2024

By Rick Grotton,
Membership Committee Director
207 582-5915

April is Grange Month, and many Granges are busy with events scheduled during this time. Do you have any members who have not seen the four degrees or need to take them? If you do, then you are in luck! Below are the scheduled dates when the Community (Subordinate) Grange degrees will be performed. Please inform your new members and encourage them to attend one of these sessions. I haven’t been to a degree day in a while, so I am looking forward to them.

April 14 at North Scarboro Grange, 74 County Rd., Scarborough. Contact Mike Griffin, Master, for information and to let him know how many will be coming. The meeting starts at 1:00 p.m.

April 21 at State Grange HQ, 146 State Street, Augusta. Contact Maynard Chapman, Chief Deputy, for information and to let him know how many will be coming. The meeting starts at 1:00 p.m.

Please refer to the website at mainestategrange.org to find out what other Granges are doing. The site has a ton of information pertinent to all members, so please visit and subscribe.

Notes from National – February 2024

  • March 18 – Join the National Grange Virtual Legislative Fly-In. Hear from Grange leaders, representatives from Congress, and issues partners about what the Grange is working on for all of rural America. Register at http://grange.biz/flyin2024
  • Please subscribe to the National Grange’s Good Day! magazine. Just $16 a year gets you access to our print or digital subscription. Learn more about the magazine at http://www.nationalgrange.org/goodday or the digital issue at http://www.issuu.com/grangegoodday. The April issue will be here before you know it, so now is a great time to subscribe or double-check your subscription.
  • Subscribe to the Patrons Chain and View from the Hill at http://www.nationalgrange.org/subscribe. These newsletters are released every Friday, containing information about National Grange programs, events, and more.
  • Do you have a local member with an interesting story in the Grange who might be willing to be on our upcoming podcast? Please reach out to Communications Director Philip Vonada!
  • Are there topics you would like to see covered in a future Zoom from a National Grange staff member, department, or officer? Please let us know! We’re always working to ensure our topics are in line with what our members want or need to hear from us.
  • The National Grange Social Media Calendar is available. This is intended to be a guide for State and Community Granges of topics/events that may be used to enhance social media. By no means is it a suggestion to post ALL of these things, but if you’re looking to get out of a rut or expand your social media reach. This could also be a great resource for Grange Lecturers/Program Directors who are looking for new programming ideas.
  • Many National Grange events have been recorded and archived – if there’s something you missed and would like to see, please visit the National Grange YouTube channel at http://www.youtube.com/nationalgrange. 
  • Follow National Grange on Social Media! We’re on Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), LinkedIn, and more! By the end of March, the National Grange Lecturer, National Junior Grange, National Grange Chaplain, and National Grange Youth pages will all be merged into the National Grange Facebook page.

Notes from National are gleaned from an email provided by Phil Vonada, National Grange Communications Director.