Exploring Traditions — August 2022

Meandering Around the Grange Way of Life

by Walter Boomsma, Guest Columnist

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Awaking and Acting…

A book I often refer to is “A Fair Field and No Favor” by Stanley Howe (Copyright 1994 by the Maine State Grange). It’s described as “a concise history of the Maine State Grange,” and for those interested in the history of the Grange in Maine, it’s worth searching for in used bookstores or Amazon and eBay. (There is currently at least one copy available on eBay for about $30.)

One of the many interesting illustrations is a letter sent from the Maine State Grange Executive Committee to all Subordinate Granges in July 1911. It reads, in part:

“…the time has arrived when the Grange should actively oppose a movement, already well underway, for the elimination of the prohibitory amendment from the Constitution of our State. We believe that it is but a movement toward the open saloon, which exists solely that it may fatten on the lifeblood of our boys by the licensed sale of that which is not food, which cannot promote love of home, which destroys habits of industry, thrift and economy, and which prevents a high conception of citizenship.”

Wow. We’ve come a long way, haven’t we? This is not an appeal to revive the temperance issue. Unfortunately, I can’t recall the source, but I do remember reading that those who had a business interest in alcohol were considered ineligible for Grange membership. Yes, times have changed.

And while Grange Policy on several issues has changed, it is also interesting to note what hasn’t changed. That same letter goes on to proclaim:

“…the Grange stands upon the side of and is pledged to the support of those things which stimulate habits of frugality, industry, honesty, and faithfulness to home, a truer conception of patriotism and a broader manhood and womanhood…”

The letter recommended “immediate action” and suggested Subordinate Granges “organize in a way which shall best meet conditions of your locality,” pointing out that “Active aggressive work means success.”

That’s sound advice, and successful Granges are following it, stimulating habits of frugality, industry, honesty and faithful to home. We are—or ought to be—promoting a truer concept of patriotism and broader manhood and womanhood.

The letter further recommended “appointing a committee for the purpose of canvassing your town to awaken interest…” While this letter was written specifically regarding temperance, the early 1900s included issues such as changes in the distribution of school funds, increased licensee fees on automobiles, commercial fertilizer inspections, changes in school funding, road improvements, and female suffrage.

While there are obvious hazards to taking strong positions in the political arena, there was very little doubt over what the Grange cared about a hundred years ago. The “active aggressive work” of the Grange was based on those values.

Both personally and as community Granges, knowing what we value and taking action will not only support what we value, it will energize us individually and as an organization. History proves that and we are proving it today. Several examples come to mind.

Victor Grange in Fairfield values other community organizations and provides meeting and event accommodations. Highland Lake’s recent program reflects its value of veterans and the community. Ocean View Grange in Martinsville values their hall and recently painted it in anticipation of more community programs.

The questions we face are simple but not easy to answer. First, as a Grange, what do we value? This goes beyond mission statements and declarations of purpose. These have their place, certainly, but tend to be lofty ideals. What matters in our community? I will never forget being at a Halcyon Grange meeting. A young family walked in and since I was closest to them, I introduced myself and learned they’d never been to a Grange meeting before. I asked them why they decided to come. They replied, “We are starting a small farm and we heard this is the place we have to be for support and help.” Anyone familiar with Halcyon Grange knows they care about small farmers.

The second question is, what must we do to support and grow what we value? It should be noted that these are not one-time questions. The actions we take become easier when like-minded people are involved. And while our fundamental values do not change much, the emphasis may shift. Overall, the Grange as an organization is an example of that. That’s an important part of the Grange Way of Life.

Any degree or ritual quotations are from the forty-sixth edition of the 2013 Subordinate Grange Manual or the most recent edition of the Pomona Grange Manual. The views and opinions expressed in “Exploring Traditions” are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official doctrine and policy of the Grange. Information about the book “Exploring Traditions—Celebrating the Grange Way of Life” can be found at http://abbotvillagepress.com, on Mr. Boomsma’s Amazon Author Page, or by contacting the author.

View from the Farm — August 2022

By Heather Retberg, Quills End Farm

There are times, months, years when there is loss. Most of Maine is in a state of drought. For farmers, this means all kinds of different things, but none of them are easy, or pleasant, and certainly not welcome. 

Every adversity, it seems, teaches; but in the moment, sometimes just sucks. The best we can do….proverbial lemonade.

Here at Quill’s End, we purchase all of our “off-season forage” from a couple of retired dairy farmers whom we count as friends. They make sure we have top-quality hay and baleage, and we make sure they stay nice and busy during the growing season. This affords an opportunity during drought to add fertility to land that needs it.

We practice what is called holistic or ultra-high density grazing. We try to mimic what large ruminants would naturally do by moving our cows twice a day to fresh grass. Leaving behind the trampled and manured paddocks for a long rest encourages microbial, plant, and insect activity above and below ground. This leads to the creation of more organic matter, better fertility, and more desirable grazing plants. When we are experiencing a drought, the microbial and plant activities slow down but stand ready to resume their work at full speed once they get a drink or two.

Therefore, when a drought hands you a grass shortage, we get to prime the least fertile places we graze by feeding hay in much the same way we graze. The drawbacks are: Hot and on stored feed, cows give less milk. Stored feed must be purchased, trucked, and fed, requiring more money, muscle, and time. Investments, if you will, in topsoil, fertility, and the future. Investments that will allow this farm to feed the community. Investments that we believe (and farmers live by faith) will make a stronger, more resilient community… above and below ground.

Editor’s note: Phil continues to write “View from the Farm” while Heather recovers from her recent surgery. Send her a card/note at Quill’s End Farm, 192 Front Ridge Road, North Penobscot ME 04476

Heather and Phil Retberg together with their three children run Quill’s End Farm, a 105-acre property in Penobscot that they bought in 2004. They use rotational grazing on their fifteen open acres and are renovating thirty more acres from woods to pasture to increase grazing for their pigs, grass-fed cattle, lambs, laying hens, and goats. Heather is Vice President of Halcyon Grange #345 and writes a newsletter for their farm’s buying club of farmers in her area and has generously given us permission to share some of her columns with Grangers. Visit the Quill’s End Farm Facebook Page for more information.

Membership Moments — August 2022

By Rick Grotton,
Membership Committee Director
207 582-5915

Do your members know of the exciting contests that are proposed annually by different state committees? Do they participate? The Lecturers Department, CWA, Membership, and Community Service all have great contests, and some entries are due in September. If you follow the website, you will find information on all of these contests. When approaching new membership, these contests should be mentioned in the conversations. We all have varied talent interests and some of these contests could promote new membership. Communication is key. When you talk about Grange, be sure to give out contact numbers, applications, pamphlets of our history, and how your Granges affect your communities. People want to keep involved, to be active, to fit in and to be able to make a difference.

Encourage your newer members to take all of the Degrees to learn about our lessons, traditions, and history. We are all proud to belong to the Grange, so share your story, your pleasures, your memories and what you have learned. New friendships are formed and old ones are renewed. We are a fraternal family with strong bonds. It doesn’t matter where your Grange is located; our family has no geographic boundaries. Technology has provided us the opportunity to communicate easier no matter where we live. Keep in touch with one another. I know I think of my friends all over the country I have met through conferences, events, conventions, and committees. I am pleased to know them as they have helped me grow and advance. It is a warm, endearing feeling to know these Brothers and Sisters and what they have helped me accomplish as a Granger. I do respect and appreciate all of them. They make feel appreciated, wanted and needed. It has been such a life changer for me. I am sure there are many others who have the same thoughts and feelings. I am proud to be a Granger. You, also, could be a life changer for someone. Encourage them to join the Grange and watch what happens!!! 

CWA Report — August 2022

By Margaret Henderson, Director
Committee on Women’s Activities
207 948-2762

Committee on Women’s Activities

WOW!!!!!   My goodness, how about that heat and humidity?  I am thankful I am not in the southern states.

We have been enjoying fresh corn on the cob, tomatoes, and cucumbers. Nothing better than fresh produce from the garden.

With lots of help from Sister Sherry and Brother Richard, everything is all set for the conference on the 20th. They helped set up the auditorium and Sister Sherry typed up and printed out the new booklets. Many thanks to both of you for all of your help. It is greatly appreciated.

Next month I will post a list of all the contest winners.

Communications Column — August 2022

By Walter Boomsma
207 343-1842
Communications Director

Give us a bite!

Well, what I mean is “give us a sound bite,” except that’s not exactly correct, either. “A sound bite is a short, catchy piece of video, audio, or speech chosen to give the essence of what you are saying and arouse interest…” While we’d love a video, we’ll take a written snippet (a small piece or short extract.) Let me explain.

We did something like this when the website was first launched, listing them as Member Benefits. Since the site was launched over ten years ago, it’s time to update and expand what people love about the Grange. We can’t do this without you.

Brevity is the soul of wit.

William Shakespeare

Shakespeare would likely be able to work effectively with the media today–he understood the value of “short and sweet.” It’s important to remember that you are trying to capture interest, not cover “everything you need to know.” In my work with the media, I’m always amazed when a reporter covers an event and shoots over an hour of video. After editing, the story is told in 2-3 minutes. As someone prone to rambling, I have to remind myself to stay focused when being interviewed. In journalism, we are reminded to “write tight.”

Why do you love the Grange? We need your answer in a short, catchy way. I know, there’s lots to love. Think of your contribution as a “teaser” or testimonial designed to make people curious about the Grange. Another prompt might be, “What’s the one greatest benefit you receive from your Grange membership?“

We’ll take your answer in writing. Don’t worry about grammar and spelling–I’ll edit and correct (with your permission) if necessary. I’m making it as easy as possible by creating a short form you can fill out. This also makes it easy for me because filling out the form ensures that I’ll have all the information I need.

Visit the “I love the Grange” post for the form. (For those reading this in the printed Bulletin, there will be a form at the end of the Bulletin you can complete and mail.) And, yes, you can submit more than one.

It’s not just Grange members using the website. Let’s tell website visitors what’s great about the Grange. While I will be updating the Member Benefits page, I also hope to be using your answers in several other ways. Stay tuned!

► FACT: 530 people visited the Maine State Grange Website in July.

Tell us why you love the Grange!

Highland Lake Grange “After Action” Report

Highland Lake Grange is pleased to report a very successful night of World War II local history! 42 attendees and Grange members enjoyed Ken Moody’s wonderful program on four US Army Air Corps flyers from Duck Pond Road:  Wesley Dearborn, Harold Lewis, Frederick Gowen, and Leonard Emery. We are very excited about raising $400 for the Westbrook Veterans Relief Fund. 

Thanks to everyone who attended, and a big thank you to Ken for all of his research and work over many years. Thanks to Ken, the devotion of these men to their country during World War II will not be forgotten.

Mike Sanphy, President of Westbrook Historical Society and member of the Grange, stated that the Society does have plans to record this program so it can be viewed more widely.

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Lecturer’s Column — August 2022

By Margaret Morse, Maine State Grange Lecturer
207 439-0413

READING AND WRITING CONTEST FAST APPROACHING

The deadline for entries in the poetry and skit writing contests as well as the book reading contest is September 1, 2022. The categories for the poetry writing entries are stars/universe, patriotic, humorous, and other. Poems written in school can be entered, even if they do not fit in a specific category, they can always be entered in the “Other” category.  Skits can be written about any situation as long as they are Grange appropriate. The reading book club for those members who are avid readers should be an easy contest to participate in. Entries must include the title and author of the books as well as the number of pages.  All entries in these three contests will be accepted until September 1. Those sent via email will be accepted as long as they are time stamped by midnight.

STATE LECTURER’S CONFERENCE

The State Lecturer’s Conference will be held on October 1, 2022, from 9:30 to 12:00 at Manchester Grange Hall. The hall is located at 953 Western Avenue in Manchester and is handicapped-accessible. The agenda for the day includes a presentation of winners in the reading and writing contests, a review of the 2022-2023 program, a short workshop, which will include an activity, and a time for discussion.

CONTESTS AT STATE SESSION

.The Lecturer’s Department will again be holding the Photo and Adult Coloring Contests at State Grange. The categories for this year’s photos are People, Animals, Flowers, and Structures. All entries must have been taken after September 1, 2021, and be Grange appropriate. First, second, and third place will be awarded in each photo category as well as a best in show. This year a People’s Choice Award will be given. Members present on Thursday of the state session will have the opportunity to cast one vote for their photo of choice. The entries for the Adult Coloring contest may be of any subject matter as long as it is Grange appropriate. The entries must have been colored after September 1, 2021. The deadline for all entries in these two contests is 1 hour after the opening of the session.

Farmers’ Market Week

This article is reprinted with permission from an e-newsletter published by Paul Davis, State Representative for District 4.

More than a hundred farmers’ markets across the state offer fresh fruits, vegetables, and meats directly from Maine farms to residents and tourists alike. The Maine Federation of Farmers’ Markets (MFFM), the statewide organization that helps sustain Maine farms, is reminding Maine residents that Maine Farmers’ Market Week will be celebrated Aug. 7-13 this year in conjunction with National Farmers’ Market Week.

The week will be marked by special events, live music, tastings, children’s activities, gifts for market shoppers, and a statewide photo contest. The contest is a chance for shoppers to post photos of their favorite foods and farmers. Prizes include market gift certificates and tickets to the Common Ground Country Fair in September.

Some of the markets also accept SNAP and WIC benefits. To see the complete list of farmers’ markets across the state as well as those that accept SNAP and WIC, visit the Federation’s website.