GRANGE NEWS Pennsylvania - January/February 2021 - Pennsylvania State Grange
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Official Publication of the Pennsylvania State Grange www.pagrange.org
Pennsylvania
PENNSYLVANIA
January/February 2021
Grange News
GRANGE NEWS
Winter Garden Activity Guide
Lisa Marie Bernardo, Master Gardener, Butler County, PA
Penn State Extension
Even in winter, planning,
equipment preparation, and care Look over your gardening attire.
of trees and shrubs can help get Wash or purchase new gardening
gardeners ready for the growing gloves. Replace gloves that have
season. holes and tatters, which can allow
s o i l o r c h e m i c a l s o n t o yo u r
Planning hands. Look over gardening shoes
and boots and repair or replace
Finalize your vegetable and flower damaged footwear. Having sturdy
garden plans. Research and select footwear prevents foot injuries New leaves and blooms may
the plant varieties, as well as the and promotes balance while appear during the blooming cycle.
number of plants required for working outdoors Offer fertilizer every other
your desired harvest. Draw your month.
plans on paper or take Indoor plants
photographs; measure your Remove the floral stalk from your
garden plots for greater accuracy Give your indoor house plants amaryllis (Hippeastrum spp.) after
in determining the number of some much-needed attention. the flowers have faded. Continue
seeds and plants you will need. Wipe leaves with a damp cloth, to water and fertilize the bulbs
Purchase a paper notebook or a removing any holiday dust and during the winter.
flash drive to start this year's glitter. Keep the soil moist but
garden journal. not soggy, as soils tend to dry out Paperwhite narcissus (Narcissus
more quickly during the winter tazetta) bulbs can be discarded
Equipment preparation months. Snip away dead or after blooming, as they are not
discolored leaves. Inspect leaves likely to rebloom.
Inventory your seed-starting and stems for signs of insects,
supplies and equipment. Based on such as mealybugs and scale. Outdoor wildlife and plants
your garden size, determine the Isolate and treat plants that
number of seedlings you want for appear to be infected or discard Keep bird feeders full, clean, and
yourself and perhaps for family the plants in the trash. well-maintained. Pay attention to
and friends. Decide if you want to any destruction from large and
use peat pots, plastic trays or Holiday flowering plants after- small animals; repair broken
other containers. Assure that you bloom care: feeders and replace damaged
have enough seed starter Place poinsettias (Euphorbia feeder parts.
medium, pots, seeds, and trays. pulcherrima) in bright light and
Check your lig ht source and keep the soil moist. Discard Walk outdoors and prune dead
replace bulbs if needed. Onions poinsettias that lose their leaves limbs from trees and shrubs. Take
and leeks can be started in early or show signs of insects or note of exposed crowns of
February. disease. perennials such as coral bells and
push them back into the soil. On
Inspect your garden tools. Decide Pinch off spent blooms from the warm days, watch for honey bees,
which tools to keep, replace or Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera and look for hellebore f lowers
donate. Research new tools that spp.) and keep this plant in bright and blooming witch hazels!
you may need. If not completed in light with moist soil.
the fall, clean tools and repair Give alkaline-loving shrubs, such
broken ones. Sharpen shears and Cyclamen (Cyclamen persicum) as forsythia, lilac and caryopteris,
pruners. tubers should continue to bloom a treat by sprinkling fireplace
during the winter months. Avoid ashes around their base. Wood
Take stock of your gardening wetting the leaves and stems and ashes contain phosphorus,
accessories, such as tomato drain away excess water to considerable potassium and
cages, labels, and containers. prevent tuber rot. Pluck faded calcium, and traces of minor
Repair and clean items as needed. flowers and leaves from the plant. elements. (cont. on page 19)
2 January/February 2021
Ta b l e o f C o n t e n t s
TABLE OF CONTENTS
2 Cover Story - Winter Garden
4 From The President’s Desk
Pennsylvania Grange News
5 Chaplain's Corner
20 Erford Road, Suite 216
Lemoyne, PA 17043
6 Membership News
1-717-737-8855
www.pagrange.org
8 Family Activities Director
Editor In Chief
9 Program Director
Wayne D. Campbell
Pennsylvania State Grange President
10 Lecturer Contest Winners
president@pagrange.org
12 History Committee
Assistant Editor
Jane Birk
13 Deaf & Community Service
Publishing Editors
14 Youth News
Brittany Covey
Lizzie Bailey
16 150th Anniversary
2021 Deadlines
20 Junior Grange
March/April 2021 (Issue 2)
February 1, 2021
22 Government Matters
May/June 2021 (Issue 3)
25 What's Happening Across PA
April 1, 2021
29 Did You Know?
July/August 2021 (Issue 4)
June 1, 2021
30 New Members/In Memoriam
September/October 2021 (Issue 5)
31 Calendar of Events
August 1, 2021
32 Grange Benefits
Follow the
Pennsylvania State Grange
Twitter - @PAGrangePR
Facebook - PaStateGrange Cover Photo taken by Lindsay
Schroeder of Little Linds Photos.
A portion of members' dues is paid as a subscription.
Advertisement Disclaimer
Title: Pennsylvania Grange News The views and opinions expressed in the
Issue: January/February 2021 advertisements of this issue are those of the
Statement of Frequency: Bi-monthly authors and do not necessarily reflect or
Authorized organization's name & address: represent the views and opinions of the
Pennsylvania State Grange Pennsylvania State Grange.
20 Erford Road, Suite 216
Lemoyne, PA 17043
January/February 2021 3
From the President's Desk
Wayne D. Campbell
PA State Grange President
president@pagrange.org
2020 is finally behind us! today. It's up to each one of us to I look forward to this because we
U n f o r t u n a t e l y , t h e Covid 19 help create a light at the end of have people joining us from
Pandemic is following us into the tunnel. We need to be each Maine, Vermont, Florida,
2021. We learned a lot in 2020 other's support partner. We need California, and Pennsylvania each
about what is important to us and to be there to take our neighbor, week. It provides that social time
those around us. We realized how our parents, or a friend to the we are all missing and so much
what we take for granted every doctors. Buying local helps build desire. If you would like to join us,
day can be lost in a heartbeat. up our local economy, it helps please send an email to
That sudden trip to the grocery provide jobs in the communities in publicrelations@pagrange.org
store for just an item or two, which we live, and it allows us to stating you would like to join us
spending an evening with friends build a relationship wi th the for the Wednesday night Bingo
for a backyard BBQ, going to a person behind the counter. All of and we w i l l s e n d y o u a n
concert, going to church, or even these things will help us to feel invitation.
going to our local Grange better about ourselves. We must stay positive in 2021.
meeting. All came to a sudden We must open our doors using
halt. new methods and "extend the
We've seen and are still hand of friendship" in new ways.
witnessing restaurants and other 2020 has been such a trying year
businesses closing because they for everyone.
cannot pay their bills on the The National Grange is going
income provided with the low to keep our existing theme
capacity limits they face. We throug hout 2021. We will
must realize this all has a trickle- co n tinue to “Cultivate
down effect. If a business closes, Connections” where ever we can
it's employees are now out of and use those connections to
work. These people must now We can use ZOOM meetings or improve life in rural and urban
really cut back on what they buy Google Meet to hold your Grange America.
and what bills are a priority. meeting and open them up to the I hope and pray you all have a
Reduced incomes affect other public to include our friends and safe and happy New Year!
local businesses within our neighbors and introduce them to
community. the Grange activities. No, these
It causes increased pressure virtual meetings are not like in-
on our health care system as a person meetings, but they still Fraternally,
person's health suffers from allow us to connect with others Wayne D. Campbell
a d d i t i o n a l stress. It causes when many are afraid to go out in President
increased mental health concerns public. Pennsylvania State Grange
as people struggle to find a way I have been joining the president@pagrange.org
forward. Pennsylvania State Grange Bingo
I've painted a very dark and game on Wednesday evenings.
dismal picture of where we
are
4 January/February 2021
Chaplain's Corner Even though we feel powerless
against the forces of 2020
Jody Keith Kensinger
(COVID, election, race issues)
PA State Grange Chaplain
God gives us the opportunity
through our faith to find the love
and serenity in our own daily
lives. I inspire each of you to look
Happy New Year from Central A week later, he sent out the
at the lessons that the past year
Pennsylvania! My name is Jodi same dove to find dry land. This
taught us and look for the
(Keith), Kensinger. I am honored time it returned with an olive leaf
rainbow in your life and know
to serve as your 2020-2022 PA in its beak, giving Noah and his
that everything will be fine. With
State Grange Chaplain! My family a great deal of hope that
the beginning of a new year upon
husband Ben and I live in the waters were receding.
us, I encourage you to find the
Martinsburg (Blair Co.), and we Another week went by and Noah
hope in what the new year could
are members at Lincoln Grange sent out the same dove, but this
bring to all of us. They always say
#914 In Huntingdon County. We time, it did not return, letting
“New Year’s Day is the blank page
live on Ben's family dairy farm, Noah know that the bird had
of a 365 page book. Write a good
where they milk over 125 found dry land and a new
one.” This is the beginning of
Holsteins and 1 Lineback. We have beginning to live.
anything that you want.
two house cats, Muffy and Casper, Wikipedia states that a Rainbow
that have kept us on our toes. is a natural phenomenon noted
During the day, I am a for its design and its place in the
Radiological technologist (aka
sky and a favorite component of
Xray Tech) with Geisinger Health art and relig ion throug hout
System in State College, PA. I Once the Ark was opened and
h i s t o r y. Fo r m e p e r s o n a l l y ,
enjoy spending time with my the animals released into the
whenever I see God's Rainbow
family, mainly my Grandpap Harry wild, God made a promise to
after a hard day, I know in my
Keith, scrapbooking, and kayaking Noah, putting a rainbow into the
heart that everything will be ok,
out on the lake in my spare time. sky. In Genesis 9 12-13 & 16, God
and that God has ever ything
As I started to think about my said, "This is the sign of the
under control. All I need to do is
first PGN article and the new covenant I am making between
let it go and let God take over.
year, I could not help but think me & you & every living creature
I would be remised if I did not
about Noah's story and God's with you, a covenant for all
give a shout out to Judy Pressler
promise of the Rainbow. Because generations to come: I have set
and thank her for all her
of a corrupt world at the time, my rainbow in the clouds, and it
wonderful readings, filled with
God asked Noah to build an Ark will be the sign of the covenant
powerful words of wisdom that
out of cypress wood and tar. He between me and the earth……
she sent out! I know that I have
was to make it big enough that he Whenever the rainbow appears in
big shoes to fill! Thank you so
could fill it with 2 of every animal the clouds, I will see it and
much Judy for eve r y t h i n g !
on the Earth. Then the rain came remember the everlasting
May all of you have a wonderful
and flooded the whole world for promise between God and all
New Year, filled with love and
4 0 d ay s and 4 0 n i g ht s . It living creatures of every kind on
happiness to last the entire year
destroyed everything except for the earth." God does not promise
through!
the animals on the Ark and Noah for life to be comfortable and full
and his family. After 100+ days on of sunny skies. What he does
God Bless & Love Always,
the ark, Noah sent a dove out, promise is for our life to be full
Jodi Keith Kensinger
only to have it return with no luck and beautiful. He promises to be
sunflowercow19@yahoo.com
at finding dry land. with us, through good times and
bad, and to never forsake us. January/February 2021 5
Membership News
Say goodbye to the old and embrace
Lizzie Bailey
a new year with hope, dreams, and ambition!
PA State Grange
Membership & PR Director
someone who may be feeling a
little down or lonely. You can
make all the difference in
someone's day by just checking in
The old adage says, "This too shall if you need paper copies, please on them.
pass." I'm happy to embrace 2021 don't hesitate to contact me.
in hopes of better days! There I would like to challenge you to
have been many lessons over the I would like to work with Granges journal your experiences from the
past year, but separation from in each region to schedule some COVID-19 pandemic. We should
everyone has been the hardest. I virtual events to highlight your document things we have done,
miss visiting you all and can't wait Grange in your area.It is a great things we haven't done, your
till things return to some sense of way to showcase what the feelings, what you are missing and
normalcy. Grange is about to your so on. The records that the
c o m m u n i t y. I h a v e b e e n s o Grangers keep will tell our
impressed by all the community stories. It might be a time to
This is the perfect time though to
create a pandemic time capsule
be calling me and let's talk about service projects. Your creativity
for a future generation to open to
where we go from here. There are in providing community service
share these memories.
many things we could be working makes me so very proud!
on such as pre-planning, working Zoom Meetings
on media, and sharing ways to Please continue to check on your Pomona and Subordinate Granges,
still recruit new Grange members. neighbors, send cards, and try to please call me to schedule a date
do some virtual events if possible. and time we can Zoom conference
Please make sure to go to our The next couple months will be to discuss your Grange, community,
website and visit the membership difficult times, and just having a and ideas to move forward with
page to get digital f iles at reassuring voice, or a little note activities, events, and recruiting
www.pagrange.org/membership, can make all the difference to new members.
6 January/February 2021
Facebook
Are you using social media to Note to Self:
promote what your Grange is
doing? Do you need Facebook, You are not too old and it's not too late.
Twitter, or Instagram accounts?
Let’s schedule a date and time
and we can work on this together Questions & Answers Deadline Extended!!!
and get your Grange active on Q: Does your Grange have a
social media. Facebook page?
A: Call Lizzie, we will set one up.
150th Anniversary
Q: Are you advertising your events? PA Grange Cookbook
Press Releases & Grange News
Please make sure to email or call A: Call Lizzie, we can do this
me about any events or awards, together! The cookbook committee
Grange news you have to share. I Q: Would your Grange like to host a is making great progress
know we have Granges who are Virtual Program for your community? on the cookbook, but
doing drive through events, etc. A: Let’s do it, call Lizzie today!!! would like to see more
that we would like to share with Q: Are you having “in person” recipe submissions.
others what the Grange is doing meetings?
during the pandemic. A: Invite Lizzie to attend!
Deadline is extended to
Q: Do you miss Grange socials?
A: Call Lizzie, let’s brainstorm! March 31, 2021.
Please take advantage of any,
or all of the following: Let’s talk, there are many things we
can work on together during social Please email recipes:
• In-Person Training distancing!
(compliance with CDC Guidelines) secretary@pagrange.org
• Virtual Events/Zoom Meetings Stay safe and healthy! 150thcookbook@yahoo.com
• Training via Phone Calls
• Training via Conference Calls Yours in Grange service, or mail to:
•Zoom Meetings,Trainings,Socials Lizzie Bailey
• Ad/Flyer Design for your event PR/Membership Director 150th Cookbook Committee
• Media Press Releases 717-254-9550 Cell PA State Grange
717-737-8855 Office 20 Erford Road, Suite 216
publicrelations@pagrange Lemoyne, PA. 17043
January/February 2021 7
Melanie Melius
PA State Grange
Family Activities Director
A Quilt and 19 Prizes Awarded! Contest Winners!
Quilt - Kelli Briggs - Avella, PA
Hello Everyone, Christmas Door Hanger - Bobbi
Hope everyone is still staying safe address I will send them out to Jo Solley - Edinburg, PA
Fall Door Hanger - Central
and healthy. My holidays were yo u . P l e a s e m a k e s o m e n e w
Grange #1216
quiet this year, same as my New contests to f ill up the Family Stainless steel Tumblers - Sheila
Year coming in quiet. Activities room this year. Donmoyer - Annville, PA
Cashew nuts - JV Lamb - New
Everything went great last year. It I will have 2 New Ladies added to Castle, PA
was not the same being able to my team this year Karen Poorman Crystal holder w/ Candle - Mary
Ann Haagen - Howard, PA
see everyone at session. There - Woolrich, PA and Isabella Boone Crystal Bowl - Amy Koenig -
was less activity in the Family - Warriors Mark, PA. Germansville, PA
Activities room to check all the Subway gift card w/ Candy bar -
contests out and see who all Mike Iannitelli - Phillipsburg, NJ
won. Gift card #1 - Dorothy Zahn -
New Castle, PA
Gift card #2 - Grover Cleveland -
Thank you to all the Granges and Covington, PA
members that gave their time to Fall Basket - Central Grange
sell tickets. Selling tickets is #1216
very important as it Kitchen Basket - Jeanette Finkle
financially supports our - Mill Creek, PA
Family Activities department. We Christmas Basket - Patricia Bird
gave the Quilt and 19 prizes away - Bellefonte, PA
this year. The donated prizes for Fall Basket - Central Grange
the Quilt & More Raffle were so #1216
appreciated. PA Maple Syrup - Lurae Benzio -
Industry, PA
We had 2021 Contest papers and 2021 Family Activity Quilt Fall Basket - Phyllis Simmons -
the New Quilt Block for everyone "Remember Me" Fredericksburg, PA
to take a picture on our table, for Hope to see Everyone in 2021 at Apple Butter - Pomona Grange
ever yone to pick-up wi th the State Session. #63 ℅ Joyce Fortney
Contest, Picture of Quilt, New Stay safe and Healthy. Apple Butter - Rachel Murphy -
Quilt block pattern w/ Picture of Lebanon, PA
Colors (PURPLE) to use. So please Fraternally Yours PA Maple Syrup - Mary Rucinski
ask if any of your Delegates Melanie Melius - Williamsport, PA
picked up any of the Contest Family Activities Director Gift card w/ 2 bottles of
Papers to make copies for anyone Email - melmelius59@gmail.com Sanitizer - Marjorie Brown -
that wants. If not please send me Cell: (814)360-7058 Liberty, PA
an email with your name and
8 January/February 2021
Jenn Nauss
Granges across the state thought
PA State Grange
Lecturer "outside the box" to tell their Grange story.
Contests and Programs Program Ideas
The 2020-21 Guide to Contests and • Invite a medical professional to speak
Programs is available on the State about the COVID vaccine that (at this
Grange website or by contacting the
time) is due to become available in the
State Grange office. The contests and
next few weeks. Debunk any myths
Greetings from South Central PA! programs detailed in the guide are still
in place for this year. Please take a look about the vaccine and offer an
at the guide and start planning your opportunity for members and guests to
I hope this article finds you and your
entries for 2021! We had very few ask questions about this. This could
families healthy and safe! I hope you had
a blessed holiday season and wish you entries in the "Design a Program" also be done via a virtual format, like
and yours a happy and healthy New Contest this year and no applications Zoom. Host a virtual forum for
Year. for the Lecturer's Grant. I know that members of your community to join in
Grange Lecturers (and others) are to learn more about this interesting
State Session planning quality programs throughout
topic and the Grange.
I want to thank everyone who the year. Please take advantage of these
participated in the Lecturer's opportunities to share your program
ideas! Ideas will be compiled into a • If your Grange is meeting virtually,
Department's contests and programs in
book for Granges and Lecturers. The consider continuing to offer literary
2020. It was certainly a different year
than any we've experienced, with many of Lecturer's Grant is a program to programs as part of your meetings.
the contests being moved to a virtual provide funding for Granges that have Guest speakers are likely well-versed in
format because of COVID. We had ideas for great educational programs, video conferencing technology and
many entries in the Virtual but may not have the resources to should be able to still talk about a topic
Photography Contest. The slideshow bring those ideas to fruition. More
or lead a program using these virtual
created from complete list of contest information can be found in the Guide
to Contests and Programs or by means.
winners is included in this issue of the
Grange News. contacting me at jnauss89@gmail.com.
• If your G r a n g e has s u s p e n d e d
As I reviewed Lecturer's Reports and Regional Leadership Conferences meetings at this time, consider how you
Scrapbooks, I was heartened to see how I am still planning to hold regional can fulfill the Lecturer's purpose of
many Granges continued amazing work leadership conferences later this providing educational and entertaining
in their communities despite the many spring. Tentatively mark your calendars
programs even though you're not
COVID roadblocks. Granges across for weekends in May for the regional
meeting. Does your Grange send a
the state thought "outside the box" to tell co n fe re n ce s . We w i l l of fe r t h ree
newsletter? If so, include an informative
their Grange story in their conferences - one in the east, one in
the central region, and one in the west article about a topic of interest to your
communities through service,
- to share leadership training and members. Call members to check in
outreach, and fundraisers. C O V I D 1 9
certainly presents us wi th many information from the State Grange with them and share a few minutes of
challenges, but we can continue to serve departments. The departments are conversation and fellowship.
our communi ties, connect wi th our already hard at work planning
members, and plan quality literary workshops for the conferences. Please
• Jenn Nauss
programs if we are willing to try check the next PGN, as well as the State
• Lecturer/Program Director
something new. Consider using Zoom Grange website and regular email
or another video conferencing program blasts, for more details as they become
f inalized. I appreciate ever yone's • Contest Winners are listed on
to meet virtually. If it is safe to do so,
hold meetings with members wearing support of these conferences last year • page 10 & 11.
masks and keeping distance. At a time and was saddened that we could not
when everyone is craving connection, hold all of them. I remain hopeful we
this is an opportunity for the Grange to will be able to meet this spring!
fill that need - safely.
January/February 2021 9
CONTEST WINNERS
Talent Contest Lecturer's Scrapbooks 100+ Members
Vocal: Subordinate: 1 - Lorrie Wesner, Ontelaunee Grange
1 - Philip Vonada, Penns Valley Grange Up to 50 Members #1617, Berks County
#158, Centre County 1 - Cheryl Ruoss, Russellville Grange
BEST OF SHOW: Philip Vonada, Penns #91, Chester County Pomona:
Valley Grange #158, Centre County 2 - Judy Stevenson, Wesley Grange 1 - Mary McMillin, Lawrence County
#1675, Venango County Pomona Grange #65
Lecturer's Reports
Subordinate: 51-99 Members Class C - Granges who could not hold
Up to 50 Members 1 - Tammy Jurkowski, Progress Grange their Open House
1 - Ruthie Garner, Lincoln Grange #914, #96, Centre County Subordinate:
Huntingdon County Up to 50 Members
2 - Cheryl Miller, Marion Grange #223, 100+ Members 1 - Cheryl Ruoss, Russellville Grange
Centre County 1 - Brenda Lengel, Virginville Grange #91, Chester County
3 - Walter McChessney, Hartslog Valley #1832, Berks County 2 - Bonnie Casselberry, Liberty Grange
Grange #375, Huntingdon County 2 - Tina Reich, Valley Grange #1360, #1780, Lawrence County
4 - Marjorie Craven, Edgewood Grange York County 3 - Walter McChessney, Hartslog
#688, Bucks County Valley Grange #375, Huntingdon
Pomona: County
51-99 Members 1 - Nettie Kauffman, Berks County
1 - Drew Fegley, Hookstown Grange Pomona Grange #43 51-99 Members
#1980, Beaver County 2 - Janet Fishovitz, Beaver County No winning entries
2 - Nancy Sattazahn, Kutztown Grange Pomona Grange #66
#1836, Berks County 3 - Mary McMillin, Lawrence County 100+ Members
3 - Debra Kieffer, Marion Grange Pomona Grange #65 1 - Brenda Lengel, Virginville Grange
#1853, Berks County #1832, Berks County
4 - Holly Yearick, Walker Grange Creative Connections
#2007, Centre County Reports/Scrapbooks Pomona:
Class A - Granges who were able to 1 - Mary Jane Kent, Greene County
100+ Members hold their Open House Pomona Grange #63
No entries No winning entries
Pen in Hand
Pomona: Class B - Granges who had planned Class 1 - Poetry
1 - Mary Jane Kent, Greene County their Open House but could not hold it No entries
Pomona Grange #63 Subordinate:
2 - Georgette Mummert, Huntingdon Up to 50 Members Class 2 - Short Story
County Pomona Grange #6 1 - Tammy Schaeffer, Pioneer Grange 1 - Meg Lomax, Plumsteadville Grange
3 - Shirley Swires, Blair County #1777, Berks County #1738, Bucks County
Pomona Grange #37 2 - Judy Stevenson, Wesley Grange 2 - Ashley Kolpak, Chester Valley
4 - Audrey Brubaker, Lebanon County #1675, Venango County Grange #1496, Chester County
Pomona Grange #59 3 - Jen Beamon, Hamburg Grange
#2103, Berks County Class 3 - My favorite Grange
Design a Program 4 - Jason Gruber, Stony Point Grange memory…
1 - Tina Reich, Valley Grange #1360, #1694, Mercer County No entries
York County - Veteran's Day
2 - Tina Reich, Valley Grange #1360, 51-99 Members
York County - Valentine's Day 1 - Jane Birk, Plumsteadville Grange Continued on page 11.
#1738, Bucks County
Lecturer's Grant 2 - Drew Fegley, Hookstown Grange
No applications #1980, Beaver County
10 January/February 20212021 Annual
Pennsylvania
State Grange Session
Save the date to attend the 2021 PA
Contest Winners Continued from page
State Grange Session, October 15-17,
10.
2021 at the Valley Forge Casino
Resort, 1160 First Avenue, King Of
Photography Class 5 - Churches Prussia, PA 19406.
Class 1 - Pennsylvania - My Home 1 - Ashley Mohn, Marion Grange
1 - Marci Schlegel, Pioneer Grange #1853, Berks County The Southeastern host committee
#1777, Berks County 2 - Cindy Keith, Lincoln Grange #914, has been working to plan a full
2 - Tammy Jurkowski, Progress Grange Huntingdon County session for 2021 including the
#96, Centre County 3 - Marci Schlegel, Pioneer Grange traditional exhibits, banquets and
3 - Ashley Kolpak, Chester Valley #1777, Berks County activities for Youth and Juniors.
Grange #1496, Chester County 4 - Mary McMillin, Westfield Grange
4 - Molly Scott, Russellville Grange #1514, Lawrence County While you are visiting eastern PA,
#91, Chester County
consider taking an extra day or two
to explore all that the region has to
Class 2 - Sunrise/Sunset
o f f e r, i n c l u d i n g t h e Va l l e y Fo r g e
1 - Jesse Garbrick, Progress Grange
National Historical Park, among
#96, Centre County
others, or take a short drive into the
2 - Jim Snyder, Valley Grange #1360,
City of Philadelphia to visit
York County
Independence Hall and the Liberty
3 - Ashley Mohn, Marion Grange
Bell. More information will be
#1853, Berks County
forthcoming in future issues of The
4 - Cindy Keith, Lincoln Grange #914,
Pennsylvania Grange News.
Huntingdon County
For those wishing to book early: The
Class 3 - Pets/Animals
room rate at the Valley Forge Casino
1 - Marci Schlegel, Pioneer Grange
Resort is $125.00 per night, plus tax
#1777, Berks County
(single/double). The r a t e is g o o d 3
2 - Cindy Keith, Lincoln Grange #914,
days pre- or post- session dates.
Huntingdon County Class 6 - Beauty in the Midst of
3 - Wendy Martin, Valley Grange Crisis Book your room directly with
#1360, York County 1 - Ashley Mohn, Marion Grange the hotel to ensure you get the
4 - Ashley Kolpak, Chester Valley #1853, Berks County Grange's group rate and that
Grange #1496, Chester County 2 - Deanna Hollabaugh, Watson the host reg ion gets credit for
Grange #1068, Warren County their contracted room
Class 4 - Landscape 3 - Philip Vonada, Penns Valley commitment. Book by calling
1 - Ashley Kolpak, Chester Valley Grange #158, Centre County t h e h o t e l d i r e c t l y a t (6 1 0) 3 5 4 -
Grange #1496, Chester County 4 - Hannah Leibensperger, Pioneer 8118 Mention Group Block code:
2 - Susan Snyder, Valley Grange #1360, Grange #1777, Berks County A1021GR, Pennsylvania State
York County
Grange and request rooms in
3 - Tim Schaeffer, Pioneer Grange BEST OF SHOW: Ashley Mohn, t h e Va l l e y To we r.
#1777, Berks County Marion Grange #1853, Berks County -
4 - Cindy Keith, Lincoln Grange #914, Beauty in the Midst of Crisis Pl ea s e i n d i cat e y o u r
Huntingdon County
r o o m preference (King, Double),
the number of guests per room,
Class 4b - Plants
and supply your contact
1 - Ashley Mohn, Marion Grange #1853,
Berks County A photograph is the information - First & Last Name,
Address, Phone # and E-Mail -
2 - Wendy Martin, Valley Grange
#1360, York County
3 - Jesse Garbrick, Progress Grange
pause button of life. and a c r e d i t c a r d t o h o l d
the reservation. We look
forward to seeing everyone next
#96, Centre County
4 - Shelley Fayewicz, Virginville Grange -unknown October!
#1832, Berks County
Jane Birk, Southeastern Committee
January/February 2021 11Looking for Degree Teams - Centre
History Committee County Pomona #13 has come forward
Doug Bonsall committing to exemplify the Fourth
Degree at the 2022 state session. We
PA State Grange History Director are still looking for Granges, counties
or other groups of patrons to exemplify
the first and second degrees in 2021 at
Tickets for Kick-Off Luncheon the session in Valley Forge and the
Tickets for the 150th anniversary kick- third degree in 2022 at the session that
off luncheon on April 17, 2021, at the will be held at a site still to be
C o u nt r y C u p b o a rd Re s t au ra nt & d e t e r m i n e d in s o u t h - c e n t r a l
S h o p p e s , L e w i s b u r g , PA , m a y b e Pennsylvania. The goal is to exemplify
Keynote Speaker Announced !! reserved by contacting Anna May Nauss the degree in full form with tableaux
at: (717) 697-5104 or amnauss@aol.com. and, in as much as possible, with
s p e a k i n g p a r t s m e m o r i z e d . To
Dr. Meecee Baker Keynotes at The price is $25 for adults with
volunteer or for more information,
Anniversary Kickoff Luncheon - Well children's prices ranging from $2-$12
contact Doug Bonsall, PO Box 765,
k n ow n t o G ra n ge au d i e n ce s a f t e r depending on age. Early reservations D a u p h i n , P A 1 7 0 1 8
serving as Youth Princess in the 1970's a re p a r t i c u l a rly i m p o r t a nt a s we (douglas.b@verizon.net).
and later as a state officer, we are n a v i g a t e t h r o u g h t h e C O V I D -1 9
pleased to announce that Sister Free Regalia/Grange Items Lighting
Meecee of Juniata County will be the the Cake - There are still some candles
keynote speaker at the April 17, 2021, on our anniversary cake available to be
kick-of f luncheon for the State purchased but we have found that
Grange's 150th anniversary. Her topic many persons are interested in the
Honoring Our History & Preserving Our smaller denomination candles. Some
Future will depart from the usual friends and family have coordinated
anniversary message of remembering their support to buy one of the larger
past glories to ask the tough question candles together but we still have a fair
number of candles between #100-#150
" Is o u r h i s t o r y a n d i t s t ra d i t i o n s
available. We are changing our previous
hindering the Grange's future?"
decision and will now allow multiple
candles in the same amount to appear
Dr. Baker owns Versant Strategies, a on the cake. So contact your Regional
premier governmental relations firm Anniversary Coordinator or Steve &
focused on agricultural, environmental, Karen Mohn to buy whatever candle(s)
and rural issues representing dozens of you wish. - We're pleased to report
c l i e nt s i n t h e Ha r r i s b u rg a n d D C pandemic; tickets will be available on a that one Pomona Grange and three
marketplace ranging from small farms first come, first served basis to the Subordinate Granges have taken up the
and businesses to Fortune 500 permitted capacity of the restaurant offer to replace some of their worn
companies. Baker's networking skills banquet room. If it becomes necessary regalia and implements wi th the
allow her to efficiently and effectively to limit the number of attendees, ticket extra i tems from closed Granges
move client messages to advocate on orders will be filled in the date order stored at the state office. Only those
their behalf. Previously, D r . B a k e r received and refunds issued for any things in good condition have been
served in the executive office of the reservations that cannot be retained and are being offered free
of charge to any Grange that can use
Pennsylvania Department of a cco m m o d at ed .
them; all you have to do is arrange for
Agriculture and as a faculty member at
transportation from the State
Penn State, an adjunct professor at We continue to monitor the pandemic
G r a n g e o f f i c e . I f y o u r Grange
North Carolina State University, and situation and will make a decision
needs any regalia, staves,
was the f irst woman elected as sometime in late February or early implements, manuals or songbooks,
president of the National Association of March if a postponement is advisable please contact Doug Bonsall with your
Agricultural Educators. She is known based on conditions or restrictions at request and we'll be glad to check if
across the nation as a published author that time. If the event is postponed those item(s) are available.
and c o l u m n i s t w i t h f r e q u e n t until a later date, refunds will be issued
engagements as a motivational keynote for anyone unable to attend on the Doug Bonsall, Chair
speaker and workshop presenter. alternate date. PA State Grange History Committee
Please note important changes for kick-off luncheon tickets and
purchase of anniversary cake candles!
12 January/February 2021Rachel Bailey
PA State Grange
Deaf and Community Service Director
“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.”
– Helen Keller
Hello Grange Friends, Most recently, I have been I very much appreciate this
enjoying my Wednesday evenings opportunity to serve the
with you fellow Grangers for Pennsylvania State Grange in this
My name is Rachel Bailey and
bingo night. My mother, Lizzie manner. While I am already
although I am not new to Grange,
Bailey, had to lasso me in for swirling with ideas, I can’t help
I may be new to a lot of you. I
virtual bingo in the Springtime in but wonder what are the needs
have been a member of the
what I thought may last for a few that your Grange is currently
Cumberland Valley Grange since serving? Is there a community
2006 and the newly established weeks. I’ll be the first to admit
need that we can collectively
Capital Grange in Harrisburg that that the thought of playing bingo
provide for? More importantly,
began early 2020. I have been a on a zoom chat was not that
have you been wanting to serve
lifelong PA resident, growing up in enticing to me. However, it only on a state level? I am currently
Shippensburg but currently took that one night after seeking volunteers to serve on a
reside in New Cumberland. participating for me to designate committee with me that will
Through the years, I’ve enjoyed my Wednesday evenings for assist in planning for our
partaking in bake sales, parades, months to come. While it being a upcoming community service
writing Christmas cards with the year of s o c i a l l y d i s t a n c e d , events. I look forward to hearing
elderly, selling cookbooks at the uncertain and unprecedented your ideas, meeting you all at the
Farm Show and a variety of other times, I would have never upcoming 2021 festivities and
community events with the guessed I would have made serving the community in the
C u m b e r l a n d Va l l e y G r a n g e . friends from Vermont, to Florida name of Grange.
Outside of the Grange, I’ve taken and even California all just by
attending virtual bingo. Rachel Bailey
joy in serving the homeless in
Email:
downtown Harrisburg,
rachel.bailey120255@gmail.com
volunteering at the Safe Harbor
Phone: 717-816-1317
homeless shelter in Carlisle,
sitting on the Youth Aid Panel of
Cumberland County and teaching
at a summer school church camp
Seeking Volunteers
in Ounaminthe, Haiti. W hile to serve on the
volunteering diversely with
multiple organizations, I take my Deaf and Community
Grange servitude with m e Services Committee!
everywhere I go.
January/February 2021 13Youth Committee
Ellen Wadsworth
PA State Grange Youth Director
The Youth and Young Adults Department July 15-18 - Pennsylvania State Grange available. To sponsor a member of the
is kicking off 2021 with a BANG! We have a Family Festival. Youth activities for this Youth Team without a supporter vest,
full schedule of activities planned for 2021 as great weekend will include a Volleyball we are requesting a donation of at least
well as a sensational new sponsorship Tournament (start practicing now!), an $60. If you have a specific office that
program for the Youth Officer Team. exercise class (maybe Pounds this year), you would like to sponsor, please
and a Road Rally! All attendees are annotate that on the form on the next
Our Grange Youth Mixer (GYM) kicks off via eligible to participate in the Knowledge page.
Zoom every 4th Sunday evening at 7 Test and our new Pennsylvania State The Youth Team will be wearing their
pm. Join us for a relaxing time to link up Grange Outstanding Young Patrons will vest while participating in any Grange
with youth and young adults friends from also be selected. activity to show their pride in this great
across the state. A relaxing and low key organization. Thank you for your help in
activity or discussion is planned for each July 20-25 - Grange Revival in the Black recognizing our amazing Youth and
month and the GYM fun kicks off on Sunday, Hills of South Dakota. This is the 2nd Young Adults!
January 24th at 7 pm. Grange Revival and is designed to be a Wrapping up 2020 In spite of having
family friendly event for all Grange no in-person Youth Contests during
It's easy to join in the fun either by members and friends and family to State Session this year, we do have some
computer or phone. The Zoom link is: create and strengthen fraternal bonds. If contest winners to announce from our
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86719178861? you are a "seasoned" youth member and virtual contests held earlier in October
pwd=RXRxZEF0TUVXam93NHFONytPNDd miss the good old days of summer camp, 2020. Congratulations to:
EZz09 THIS IS YOUR CHANCE! Don't miss out
or call +1-301-715-8592. The Meeting on this great event. More info is Public Speaking
ID: 867 1917 8861 and Passcode: available on Facebook, search for Grange -Prepared Speech (22-35) 1st place
224121. This information will also be posted Revival 2021. - Jodi Keith Kensinger, Huntingdon Co.
on the Youth and Young Adults FB page - Impromptu (22-35) 1st place -
prior to each GYM so make sure you are a And there is so much more to come Ashley Mohn, Berks Co.
member of the FB group to receive the during the rest of 2021!!! -Radio Spot (22-35) 1st place - Ashley
reminder. Drop in on Sunday, January 24th Mohn, Berks Co.
and see what's happening around the state! NEW OPPORTUNITY! Become a - DIY Speech (22-35) 1st place -
Other dates to make sure you have marked sponsor for a member of the Youth Ashley Mohn, Berks Co.
in your calendar are: Officer Team. Beginning with the Youth Grange Commercial - 1st place - Ashley
Officer Team selected for the Mohn, Berks Co.
March 19-21 - Mid Atlantic Leaders Pennsylvania State Grange Session in https://youtu.be/VgWfDVZ8rm0
Conference (MALC) and Regional Youth October 2021, the Youth Officers will be Create a Button - 1st place - Ashley
Contests, hosted by Potomac Grange #1 presented with an official Youth Team Kolpak, Chester Co.
(Washington DC) and held virtually. More vest, including the Grange logo and their -2nd place - Ashley Mohn, Berks Co.
info will be sent and posted as it arrives. name embroidered on the front. It's time Grange Display - 1st place - Ashley
for our State Youth Team to have a Kolpak, Chester Co., -2nd place - Ashley
April 23-25 - Pennsylvania Young Adults distinct identifier, similar to those of the Mohn, Berks Co.
Weekend, planned for south central FFA and 4-H. The Youth and Young
PA. More info will be sent and posted as it Adults Committee has selected gray The Youth Committee also hosted our
arrives. vests for the Youth Team and black vests 2nd Virtual Paint Night on Zoom with
for sponsors. Pumpkins highlighting the
June 25-27 - Pennsylvania State Grange To sponsor a member of the Youth evening. Look for another Paint Night
Youth Camp. The theme for Youth Camp is Team and receive your own black vest, announcement coming in early 2021.
2021 Grange Olympics. Save this weekend we are requesting a donation of at least
on your calendar and keep watch for $100 to the Pennsylvania State Grange Fraternally,
registration information. Youth Department. Donations can be Ellen M. Wadsworth
made by Granges, individuals or small PA State Grange Youth and Young Adults
groups but only 1 supporter vest per Director
$100 will be
14 January/February 2021Sponsor Name:
______________________________________________________________________
Address:
______________________________________________________________________
Phone: __________________________________ Email: ___________________________
I/We would like to sponsor ____________________________________________________
office
Select one:
_____ $100 donation to sponsor a member of the Youth Team, receive a supporter vest, size: _______
___ __$60 donation to sponsor a member of the Youth Team
Please send this form and sponsorship to: 362 University Road, Lincoln University, PA 19352
January/February 2021 1516 January/February 2021
January/February 2021 17
18 January/February 2021
Winter Garden (from page 2)
Assure that the plastic and wire
However, before applying wood tree trunk guards are secure.
ashes, it is best to have the results Adjust or replace dislodged or
of a recent soil test and know the broken guards and inspect the
pH of your soil. If your pH is 7 or tree trunk for damage.
above, offer the ashes to a friend.
According to Penn State Remove dead, diseased or broken Just a friendly reminder that if
Extension, in an un-leached form tree or shrub branches. Seek you are submitting an article or
(directly from the stove or assistance for removing unsafe Grange event please have them to
fireplace), wood ashes can often branches near homes, buildings the State Office by the 1st of the
do more harm than good if not and electrical wires. Photograph month prior to the issue. The
properly applied. The ash's trees' branch structures in March/April Issue deadline is
alkalinity may raise the soil pH to preparation for late winter February 1. Please email articles
a point at which other elements pruning. The leafless branches to pagrange@pagrange.org .
are unavailable. A good guideline afford the opportunity to evaluate
is to apply dry, un-leached wood overlapping branches and overall
ashes at a maximum of 3 pounds tree shape and size. Consult with
You can also mail your articles
per 100 square feet of soil surface an arborist, if needed.
and photos to
in a single season. Pennsylvania State Grange
Winter garden doldrums can be
vanquished with basic plant and 20 Erford Rd Suite 216
Inspect tree trunks for large
garden maintenance activities. Lemoyne, PA 17043
animal and rodent damage.
January/February 2021 19for our "Juniors at Heart," there are
contest categories for you to
Junior Committee participate in, too!)
This year, I am also reminding and
Phillip Vonada challenging everyone to be kind. The
past year has been hard on everyone -
PA State Junior Grange Director parents, teachers, kids of all ages - and
sometimes it's important to remember
that the easiest and nicest thing you
can do is to BE KIND to yourself and to
everyone you meet. Later this spring,
Welcome Philip Vonada!!! we will be working with the other
committees from across the state in a
Random Acts of Kindness campaign -
Happy New Year! I hope everyone is be turning to Lurae and her
but it's never too early to start! Find a
feeling happy and refreshed from the committee, as well as Junior Directors
way to help a classmate, neighbor,
holidays and ready for a brand new and parents from across the state, as I
member of your church or your Grange
year! Let's make 2021 a year of have a lot to learn.
- even the smallest acts go a long way!
excitement and fun. Joining me on this adventure will be
I am so thrilled to have been asked Junior Committee members from
to be Pennsylvania's next Junior around the state:
Director. Many of our Juniors and - Jennifer Beamon, southeast
adults know me already, but I'm going - Ashley Furman, north central
to take a moment to introduce myself. I - Miranda Irons, northwest
am a lifetime member of Penns Valley - Cassy Kehs, southeast
Grange #158 in Centre County and also - Tina Reich, south central
an affiliate member of Eagle Grange #1 - Christie Straub, northwest
in Lycoming County, where I live. I am a and Elisabeth Reich and Bryce
former member of the State Junior Danko - PA Junior Grange Ambassadors
Committee, and I have previously been We are looking forward to starting
State Junior Prince, Youth Ambassador, virtual Junior meetups this winter and
I am looking forward to working with
and Outstanding Young Patron. I have spring, connecting Juniors from across
Junior Grangers and Junior Leaders
also been a youth officer and the state, and when it's safe for us to
from across the state in the coming
Communication Fellow at National gather in person, we are hoping to have
years. If you have any ideas, any
Grange, and have written articles for in-person regional meetups, too! Early
questions, any concerns - please reach
the National Grange's Good Day! this spring, there will also be a State
out!
magazine. In my "outside of Grange" Junior Director meeting on Zoom - stay
And don't forget about the 1+
life, I am the General Manager of the tuned to the next issue for more
program- any Subordinate/Community
Community Theatre League in details.
Grange can have a Junior Grange,
Williamsport, and I enjoy fitness, In the coming months, I would like
starting with just ONE member! Read
cooking, baking, reading, and Junior Granges across the state to start
m o r e a b o u t i t h e r e :
performing. working on projects and contests -
http://www.nationaljuniorgrange.org/
I want to thank Lurae for the maybe a "K-Cup" recycled craft, iced
what-is-a-1-junior-grange/. To better
incredible work she has done with our drop cookies, creative writing, or
serve all of our Junior Grangers across
Junior department over the past six honing your talents for the talent
Pennsylvania, it's imperative that we
years. It was an honor to work with her competition - all of the Pennsylvania
know where our Juniors are, so even if
and the committee at all of the Junior State Junior Contests can be found in
you don't have a Junior Grange Charter,
events, and to watch the excitement the 2020-2021 Guide to Contests. And
make sure to count them!
and energy grow within our Juniors also check out the new National Guide
every year! I have some big red shoes to contests and projects, too, like the
Thank you all, may you have a safe and
to fill, and I'm looking forward to Kelley Farm Project, passport program,
happy new year,
continuing and building on many of the Cape of Honor, and more! Feel free to
events, awards, and more! Over the reach out to me for a copy of either
Philip Vonada
next two years, I am definitely going to Guide. (And
Junior Director
20 January/February 2021Advertisement
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JJanuary/February 2021 21Government Matters
Vince Phillips
PA State Grange Lobbyist
ARTICLE GOV’T MATTERS 2020.5
WELCOME TO THE NEW YEAR! Happy Retirement Vince Phillips!
The year 2021 brings a new with handmade ornaments by As I enter retirement from
legislative session of the General elementary schoolers across the lobbying for the Pennsylvania
Assembly in Pennsylvania. Each state. Rather, the Commonwealth State Grange personally, I look
year always means taking stock of installed a tree out in front of the back and appreciate how
where the Pennsylvania State Capitol so that people driving by outstanding t h e individuals,
Grange is legislatively and how to could see something. But this is families, and communities
build on our successes from the where the story gets interesting. making up the G ra n ge are.
year before. In 2021, I look forward to
Two lawmakers went and got a Grangers embracing the spirit
And what a year it was. There is six-foot tree and put it in the shown by those two lawmakers
little to be gained by re-stating middle of the Rotunda where the who knew they would
the obvious. COVID-19, the towering evergreen was to have p e r s e v e r e in bringing joy
coronavirus, hi t families and been placed. They decorated it, to others.
businesses hard. In addition to procured pianos from somewhere
s u f f e r i n g f r o m COVID-19 , and played Christmas carols. Conservative Republican Rep.
is o l a t i o n c a u s e d p r o b l e m s G r e g Rothman (R-Cumberland)
o f depression and anxiety. To me, this highlights what makes and liberal Rep. Stephen Kinsey
us so special. At the height of (D-Phila.) announced that they
In the State Capitol, the adversity, people will persevere will tr y to forge a bipartisan
pandemic influenced everything and will promote the lig ht of Civility Caucus in the General
done in Harrisburg from holding togetherness even in dark Assembly. Hopefully, this will
committee meetings remotely to times. begin to undo the difficult and
literally closing the Capitol twice often antagonistic atmosphere
to the public in order to prevent As I hear it, the authors of this that plagued Harrisburg this past
the spike in infections from being impromptu humble Christmas year. I wish everyone the best.
e v e n w o r s e . COVID-19 hi t observance said that the staff
everyone’s way of life as we all who had to work in virtual I hope you will find things that
adapted and coped with the isolation in Harrisburg should brig hten the world and share
pandemic. have a n occasion to smile about. them with others as
Grangers are like those w e l l . Another encouraging sign
There is a small anecdote that to legislators. We know the values for our public o f f i c i a l s is a
me reflects all that change in a that come wi th simply being December move by political
small but representative way. The people, always ready to help opposites.
Capitol Rotunda did not have a o t h e r s a n d t o b r i n g h o p e by God bless.
Christmas Tree in 2020 loaded . leading through example. Vince
Vince Phillips
Legislative Director
**********************
22 January/February 2021During the legislative process, Passage of Senate Bill 835
protection for farmers seeking (Langerholc-R-Cambria).
to engage in agri-tourism (House It established the B r o a d b a n d
Bill 134 sponsored by Authority to help coordinate state
WHAT WILL BE HOT FOR 2021? Rep.BarbGleim-R-Cumberland) e f f o r t s to secure meaning ful
already circulated a sponsorship Broadband funding from the
LIABILITY PROTECTION was folded into HB 1737. Federal Government. Along the
LEGISL ATION: way, it was amended to include
AGRI-TOURISM language from House Bill 234
FIGHT CONTINUES (Causer-R-Cameron,McKean, Potter)
c o n v e r t i n g a tax c r e d i t for
telecommunications investment
On November 30, Governor Tom into a Broadband grant program.
Wolf vetoed House Bill 1737. This Passage of House Bill 2438
legislation would have sheltered (Owlett-R-Potter,Tioga, Brandford).
businesses, manufacturers of medical This facilitates development of
equipment, and healthcare providers Broadband access by the rural
from lawsuits by people who sued electrical cooperatives.
because they contracted COVID-19. Passage of limited liability for (Note: N a t i o n a l G r a n g e w a s
This limited immunity from lawsuits agritourism is a major priority instrumental in the drive last
would last as long as the Governor’s memo December 2 for the century to have universal access
Emergency Declaration is in effect. In 2021-22 legislative session. It to electricity by the rural electrical
cooperatives.)
his veto message, Governor Wolf said s a y s , i n p a r t , Specifically, my
Completion of a landmark
that HB 1737’s “Shielding entities legislation would protect agri-
Broadband Report by the PA Joint
(manufacturers of the personal tourism business from lawsuits
State Government Commission.
protective equipment, healthcare where no party is at fault for
This report resulted from PA
providers, schools, etc.) from liability injuries or damages. The Senate Resolution 47 sponsored by
in such a broad fashion invites the l e g i s l a t i o n w o u l d require S e n a t o r K r i s t i n Phillips-Hill
potential for carelessness and a th a t t h e f a r m e r s p o s t (R-York) to convene a special task
disregard for public safety.” multiple signs on their l a n d force and Advisory Committee to
wa r n i n g v i s i t o r s o f t h e risks, work through the multiple issues
The Pennsylvania State Grange and or ask visitors to sign a waiver of confronting the ultimate goal to
numerous business groups such as liability before participating in provide all rural Pennsylvanians
The PA Coalition for Civil Justice activities. While the legislation with contemporary technology-
R e f o r m , t h e PA M a n u f a c t u r e r s provides some immunity from internet, cell phones, etc.
Association, and the National litigation, the right to sue is The Pennsylvania State Grange
F e d e r a t i o n of I n d e p e n d e n t preserved if an owner acts in a was n a m e d to the Advisory
Businesses (NFIB) all blasted the veto grossly neg ligent manner or Committee as the only one
as showing support for the trial operates wi th no regard for representing a rural member-
lawyers instead of protecting public safety.” based organization.
The Pennsylvania State Grange
relevant businesses and others from
will continue our efforts and
unsubstantiated litigation. House BROADBAND
pursue such legislation as to make
Republicans have made it clear that Make no mistake the
it easier for municipalities to
they intend to keep pressing the Pennsylvania State Grange did
become their own internet Service
exceptionally well in pursuing the
liability protection issue. Provider.
goal of universal access of high-
speed Broadband last year.
Consider these examples:
January/February 2021 23THE RURAL ECONOMY
• R e l a x i n g c e r t a i n Uniform • Waiving MS4 fees on farmers
Rural P e n n s y l v a n i a f a c e d a
Construction Code restrictions to who are a l r e a d y d o i n g p r o p e r
perfect storm last year. Poor milk
let barns be used for weddings s t o r m wa t e r management.
prices and COVID-19 teamed up
and other social events.
to to hurt rural b u s i n e s s e s ,
• Preventing local municipalities WHAT IS MEAT?
farmers, and rural communities.
from enacting overly-restrictive Remember going into the store
Businesses were c l o s e d by
rules that prevent agritourism and seeing almond milk and soy
government order and could only
and agri-entertainment from milk and now, oat milk? The Dairy
operate online – BUT, you need
taking place. Industry has fought a struggle for
the Internet to market goods and
• Strengthening the over-order years to make sure that
services if you can’t do it face-to-
premium system for dairy consumers are not misled by
face. Specific types of businesses
producers. labels that suggest that they are
such as auto dealerships which
• Advocating for funding for the in some way milk. Another battle
could market online actually
Penn State College of Agricultural may be in store as to what meat
could not since PA at that time
Science and Extension as well as is. Labels like “cell-cultured meat”
did not allow remote notarization.
the University of Pennsylvania’s disguise what it really is, protein
work in veterinary science and developed in t h e l a b o r a t o r y.
The Pennsylvania State Grange
t r a i n i n g . The s u c c e s s o f PA
was active in several of these
Agriculture is based on research W hen this product beg ins to
areas such as changing the law to
on producing better crops more show up, consumers can be taken
allow remote notarizations. We
efficiently, staving off threats by unawares by the label. The
also were in the legislative mix in
understanding those threats and Pennsylvania State Grange is
letting certain businesses like
by ensuring a steady supply of working with the PA Cattlemen
garden centers re-open.
trained dedicated people going Association to promote legislation
into farming and the industries that clearly def ines the term
Assuming that the new vaccine
supporting Agriculture’s success. “ m e a t ”. I t w o u l d m a k e i t a
will get COVID-19 under control
and there will be a partial return violation of the Unfair Trade
CONSERVATION Practices Act to label something
to normalcy, the rural economy
Grange members are at the as meat when it is not.
will still be a problem. Commodity
forefront of those wanting clean
prices and the changes in
water and a healthy Chesapeake STATE BORROWING
agricultural policies from a new
Bay. However, we think several Living within one’s means is for
Administration in Washington
things need to be addressed. the Pennsylvania State Grange a
mean uncertainty.
Agriculture is felt by many as the better approach than spending
culprit. They are not aware of money and then borrowing
Pennsylvania State Grange is
what farmers do in conservation. money to pay for this spending.
pursuing these objectives to help
Farmers know that land and soil Historically, we have opposed
PA’s rural economy:
are the basics of Agriculture and such schemes as An equity loan
• Liability protection for farmers
their interest is to preserve and on the Farm Show, Taking the
wishing to engage in agritourism.
replenish the land. Towards that Race Horse Development Fund
• Establishing Dairy Incentive
end, Pennsylvania State Grange and using the money for
Zones to encourage investment
supports: s c h o l a r s h i p s instead of for its
in r e g i o n a l m i l k p r o c e s s i n g
• Funding for the Conservation original purpose. Borrowing $4.5
facilities. This will reduce
Districts. billion and then using a new tax
transportation expenses in
• Protection of the Special Funds on natural gas to make the
m i l k hauling and boost local jobs.
which promote conservation. payments on the loan.
24 January/February 2021You can also read
