2020 Grange News Archive

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December 2020

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DECEMBER 2020 WRAP-UP

Washington Overview

Coronavirus Relief and Government Funding

Following a week-long delay, on Sunday December 27th President Trump signed an omnibus bill into law which included Coronavirus Relief Funds and the annual bill which funds the government. In the coronavirus relief package highlights include a new round of $600 stimulus checks, an eleven-week extension of expanded unemployment benefits, a new round of Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) funding, as well as money for vaccines, schools, child care, the postal service, rental assistance, and food/farm aid (more details in the next section of this newsletter). The government funding bill was mostly as expected, with significant overlaps with last year’s budget and President Trump’s proposed 2021 budget plan. As well, other measures were included in the omnibus package such as new regulations of surprise medical billing, money for community health centers, and various tax breaks and extensions. Despite eventually signing the bill, President Trump complained that stimulus checks were not valued at $2,000, and that unrelated measures such as the ending of Section 230 of the Communications Act of 1934 (which protects websites from being sued for content posted by third parties to the site), or the creation of a commission to investigate claims of election fraud were not included. Following President Trump’s criticism, Democrats in the House passed a bill to increase stimulus check payouts to $2,000 on Tuesday December 29th, however in the Senate the Republican Majority Leader has tied a vote on $2,000 checks to ending Section 230 and the creation of a commission to investigate claims of election fraud, leaving the bill’s fate unknown.

National Defense Authorization Act

Every year Congress passes an act to fund the military called the National Defense Authorization Act with overwhelming support. However, this year President Trump vetoed the bill due to it not containing unrelated measures to end Section 230, leaving the bill’s fate and funding for the military in jeopardy. Despite this, on Tuesday December 29th the House overrode President Trump’s veto with significant support from Democrats and Republicans. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell scheduled an override vote for Wednesday December 30th; however, some prominent Democrats like Senator Bernie Sanders have threatened to filibuster the vote unless McConnell allows a stand-alone vote on expansion of stimulus checks to $2,000.

New Congress

On Sunday January 3rd, a new Congress will be sworn in with a narrowed Democratic majority in the House and an unclear majority party in the Senate as run-offs for both Georgia Senate seats will not take place until January 5th. With the start of a new Congress, leaders in both chambers will be selected with Representative Nancy Pelosi likely to narrowly remain as Speaker of the House, and Senator Mitch McConnell to remain Majority Leader at least until new Senators from Georgia can be seated.

Agriculture and Food

Financial Relief for Ag and Food Industries

The $900 billion stimulus package passed by Congress and signed by President Trump provides an estimated $13 billion for food and agricultural programs. Additional assistance will go these programs:


• A supplemental Dairy Margin Coverage program
• Specialty crop block grants, Local Agriculture Market programs, The Gus Schumacher nutrition program, farming opportunities training and farm stress programs
• New funds to address gaps in nutrition research
• Producers of ag commodities who suffered market price declines over a specified time period
• Additional funding for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP)
• Changes to the Small Business Administration’s PPP rules to allow the deduction of business expenses paid for with PPP loan funds
• Support for livestock, poultry and dairy producers who were forced to euthanize animals due to disruptions at processing plants
• Provides funding for poultry and livestock contract growers to cover up to 80% of losses suffered because of supply chain disruptions earlier in the pandemic
• Aid to small meat processors for facility improvements to qualify for federal or state inspection that allows them to sell product over state lines
• Assistance to affected fisheries
• Payments to producers of advanced biofuel, biomass-based diesel, cellulosic biofuel, conventional biofuel, and renewable fuel due to unexpected market losses due to the pandemic
• Funds for USDA to purchase and distribute food and agricultural products through nonprofit organizations

U.S. Challenges Canada’s Dairy Quotas

The two countries will begin consultations under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada (USMCA) trade agreement dispute rules. This comes after months of complaints by U.S. dairy farmers that Canada is manipulating USMCA’s new tariff rate quotas to minimize U.S. gains to the Canadian dairy market.

Food Insecurity Crisis Deepens

Lines outside food pantries are a common sight around the country as families wait their turn in row after row of cars. Many pantries fear they will run out of food, too. Feeding America is the largest responder to hunger in the charitable sector and reports an average of 60% more people this year are seeking help from the organization’s 200 food banks. Second Harvest Food bank has seen a sharp decline in food drives as people are not gathering in offices, schools and other places where food drives would normally be organized. Second Harvest says people are arriving on site at 2-3 am or even the night before to be sure they receive supplies, and approximately 4 in 10 are new to needing charitable assistance.

Climate Change

Climate Change Vaults to Top of Biden Agenda

President-elect Biden has made it clear he’s listening on climate change. He has announced his intentions to rejoin the Paris Climate Agreement which is an international accord to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. President Obama joined the agreement by executive action in 2016 and President Trump withdrew from the agreement in 2017. Biden has announced his administration’s “climate team” to be led by John Kerry, former senator from Massachusetts, former Secretary of State in the Obama Administration, and Democratic presidential candidate in 2004. Other members of the team will include EPA Administrator Michael Regan (North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality director), Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, (congresswoman from New Mexico), White House climate czar Gina McCarthy (former EPA Administrator), Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm (former governor of Michigan), and White House Council on Environmental Quality chairperson Brenda Mallory (former regulatory policy director at the Southern Environmental Law Center).

Climate 21 Project

Robert Bonnie, former Under Secretary of Agriculture with President Obama who heads the Biden transition team at USDA, has authored an in-depth transition memo called the Climate 21 Project. It provides the incoming USDA leadership a blueprint of opportunities to maximize USDA’s contributions to an aggressive Administration-wide climate change mitigation effort. He suggests USDA has tremendous resources to partner with farmers, ranchers and forest owners to reduce greenhouse gasses through carbon sequestration and emissions reductions. In the past, Bonnie had advocated for carbon credit trading and carbon banking.

Questions Raised About Agriculture as a Climate Solution

Soil scientists and soil health experts caution that the science is not yet in place for accurate and cost-effective measurement and quantification of soil carbon sequestration. On the other hand, carbon market proponents suggest using “simulation modeling” to assign carbon credits for cover crops, no-till and other practices to estimate the conversion of carbon dioxide. To help navigate the dilemma of a climate change path forward for Agriculture, the National Grange is considering joining the newly formed Food and Agriculture Climate Alliance. The group represents farmers, ranchers, forest owners, the food sector, state governments and environmental advocates.

Health Care

Grange COVID Letter in National Spotlight

In early December, National Grange president Betsy Huber wrote to the Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration urging the FDA to consider all safe and effective COVID treatment options. She referenced efforts by American companies to innovate and invent new solutions including promising results on a potential oral delivery method for a COVID-19 vaccine. Offering multiple vaccine delivery mechanisms could mitigate many of the concerns facing rural residents, ensuring that doses could be distributed rapidly and administered in the safety of their own homes instead of having to travel long distances to a health care professional. This could allow vaccine access for those with difficulties traveling or those who are unwilling to travel for fear of contracting the virus. The Grange letter was picked up by media outlets nationwide and Huber was interviewed by Bloomberg Businessweek which titled its report “At Age 153, the National Grange Confronts the Pandemic”.

Grange COVID Vaccine Message Circulates in Washington

An editorial by National Grange president Betsy Huber in Washington’s The Hill newsletter highlighted the need to consider all options for COVID-19 vaccine delivery. The Hill is widely read by policy-makers and influencers in the nation’s capital. Huber praised American innovation in conjunction with a proactive federal reaction for the speed of vaccine development, approval and distribution previously believed impossible. But with a COVID virus likely to be a part of our lives for a long time, future vaccine delivery options need to reflect the needs of vulnerable populations living in remote areas.

Congress Curbs Surprise Medical Bills

One of the National Grange’s top policy priorities is now a reality. Congress passed a plan to prohibit most surprise medical bills as part of its end-of-year spending and COVID-19 relief package. This action ends a two-year debate over how to fix the practice of surprise out- of- network emergency care medical bills. The enacted compromise stipulates:


• Surprise billing would be barred for out-of-network emergency care. Patients will be asked to pay only their in-network charges for the care received. The question then becomes what the insurer will pay the care provider.
• There will be a 30-day period for the insurer and health care provider to negotiate payment for out-of-network claims.
• Arbitration will be available for both sides to make an offer and have the arbitrator make a final decision on payment.

New Drug Pricing Rule Threatens Access to Critical Care

The National Grange joined over 300 patient groups, care providers, membership organizations and advocacy groups in urging Congress to pass legislation to delay a new Health and Human Services rule that mandates foreign drug pricing for Medicare Part D therapies. The Most Favored Nation pricing rule will adversely affect Medicare patients with debilitating and deadly conditions such as cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, macular degeneration, autoimmune disorders and rare diseases. Patients would be forced to accept cheaper alternative therapy that may have lower efficacy or greater risks, or decide to postpone or forego treatment.

Telecommunications

Sustainable Agriculture Will Depend on 5G connectivity

National Grange president Betsy Huber was featured recently in the Washington newsletter Morning Consult talking about how sustainable agriculture for the future will use high speed connectivity. Huber called upon Congress to prioritize 5G buildouts in rural America to increase agriculture’s productivity, decrease input costs and reduce its environmental footprint.

Threat to Rural Broadband Innovation

The National Grange and several ag groups recently asked the Federal Communications Commission to reconsider proposed changes to the distributed transmission system rules that threaten further deployment of innovative rural broadband solutions such as TV white space technology.

FCC Targets Unserved Rural Areas

The Rural Digital Opportunity Fund (RDOF) is a Federal Communications Commission program designed to close the digital divide by investing billions of dollars in the construction of rural broadband networks. The recent RDOF Phase 1 auction targeted the rural locations that are most difficult to serve. Over 300 providers participated in the auction including cable operators, electric cooperatives, telephone companies, satellite companies, and fixed wireless providers. RDOF winners had to commit to provide service to an area at a given performance tier and latency at FCC’s current funding support amount. Successful providers will deploy high-speed broadband to over 5.2 million unserved homes, businesses, farms and ranches over the next 10 years.

Perspective



"Public opinion is no more than this; what people think that other people think." ~ Alfred Auston
"Don’t let your opinion sway your judgment." ~ Samuel Goldwyn
"Don’t let the noise of other’s opinions drown out your own inner voice." ~ Steve Jobs
"Opinion is the medium between knowledge and ignorance." ~ Plato
"You are not entitled to your opinion. You are entitled to your informed opinion. No one is entitled to be ignorant." ~ Harlan Ellison
"Those who never retract their opinions love themselves more than they love truth." ~ Joseph Joubert
Please submit your feedback and questions to Burton Eller or Sean O'Neil.

Burton Eller
Legislative Director
(202) 628-3507 ext. 114
beller@nationalgrange.org

Sean O'Neil
Legislative Intern
sean.oneil@grange.org

National Grange | 1616 H Street NW, Washington, DC 20006


DECEMBER 18, 2020



A Lesson in Fidelity

By: Betsy E. Huber, National Grange President

Continuing from my article in last week’s Patrons Chain, the lesson of the Fourth Degree is Fidelity, defined as faithfulness, loyalty, honesty. Fidelity is portrayed in the season of old age and winter, where we rest from the hard work of planting and harvesting and enjoy with our families, friends, and neighbors the good things our labors have brought us.

Early in the degree the Lady Assistant Steward tells the Bible story of Ruth the Moabitess, who pledges her fidelity to Naomi her mother-in-law, even leaving her own country and traveling with Naomi to a foreign land where she knew no one. “Entreat me not to leave thee,” is a well-known passage that praises Ruth as an example of faithfulness, love, and dedication.

In the degree this speech is followed by formation of altar circles by the current Grange members, enclosing the candidates around the altar to show “pure friendship, enduring through life, to shield you from harm.” This should be a very meaningful part of the degree conferral and is included in the shorter Welcoming Ceremony also to show its importance. Our relationships with our fellow Grange members should always exhibit this pure friendship and loving support – it may be rare in today’s world but something that many are searching for especially in these times.

As you prepare for celebrating the holidays with your family, take a few moments to reach out to Grangers and friends who may be struggling with loneliness because they cannot be with their families this year. A friendly greeting showing your fidelity as a fellow Granger will certainly make their day brighter.

Merry Christmas and a Happy, Happy New Year!

Reviving Social Media

By Kennedy Gwin, National Grange Intern

As the holidays are right around the corner, this is the perfect time to revive your social media pages! Granges around the country are hosting food drives, clothing drives, or other community service projects, and can easily use these as an excuse to post. Often, we are caught up in this idea that we must have the “perfect” post to show our community, when just a simple “Happy Holidays” photo will suffice. As you expand your social media brand, it is not the matter of having “perfect” content, but just getting content out there for people to see that you exist.

Using platforms like Facebook to advertise future events at your local Grange halls are a great way to get the word out in your community to people who you may not traditionally be connected to. Expanding this connection helps bring up your profile as an organization and directly creates positive impact in your communities.

As you are reviving your social media pages start off with a small goal of one to two posts each week and work your way up to consistently posting. Some ideas for posts include holiday posts, legislative updates, community service photos, and event posts.

Getting more active on social media also offers a great opportunity to engage the younger members of your local Grange. Many Youth are very engaged in social media and have often had to use platforms such as these for things such as school projects or in their professional work environment. Taking time to learn from them both helps you both grow. They feel their roles within the Grange expand as they take on new responsibilities, and you learn how to navigate the ever-changing world of social media.

When making posts a great website you can use is www.Canva.com. This website has premade templates that you can use to simply fill in your information, and post or download and post later.

If you would like more direct help, feel free to contact me at kennedy.gwin@grange.org or Amanda Brozana Rios, the National Grange Communications Director at communications@nationalgrange.org so that we may assist in helping you create posts as well as future social media plans.

To get started, we have created a few sample images you can download and post directly to your page! Here are a few options for the holiday season:

You can even use your social media to promote the Grange’s quarterly Good Day! magazine or giving to the Grange Foundation!

You can also take this time to encourage folks to take part in the newly announced 2021 Lecturer’s Contests. Here are some prepared posts to encourage everyone – including those who have not yet joined the Grange – to participate.

Grange Store Announcement

By: Loretta Washington, National Grange Director of Sales

Are you ordering Grange merchandise for the loved ones in your life for the holidays? Check out this important announcement so you receive your packages on time.

National Grange Supply Store order must be received by Dec 16 to be shipped out by 12-22-2020. All orders received after Dec 17 will be shipped out the week Of Jan 4, 2021.

Hope to see your orders soon!

A Few Grange Mentions

This is a new section we will include each week with a few of the links to articles in which the local, State or the National Grange have been mentioned or our statements have appeared.


● Agriculture Welcomes Vilsack’s Return to Agriculture , Salem, OR
● National Grange on Vilsack’s Nomination, Nashville, TN
● 2,500 heart signs purchased in Westport to Benefit Local Food Pantry, Westport, MA

Grange Comments on Weekly Items of Interest

This is a new section we will include each week with at least one quote from the week prior made about a policy issue or current event by National Grange President Betsy Huber or other Grange leaders for inclusion by media or to spark interest in the rural perspective.

National Grange lists WOTUS as top challenge under new administration “Recently National Grange Legislative Director Burton Eller was interviewed by Farm World about the biggest challenges facing agriculture that the Biden administration will have to tackle. On the top: WOTUS (a regulation entitled Waters of the US).”

Rural Digital Opportunity Fund Auction results positive step for rural Americans “The sound regulatory approach and carefully calibrated incentives championed by the FCC have delivered results, yielding $9.2 billion in support during this first Phase. We applaud the continued efforts of the FCC to expand high-speed internet access to rural communities that are too often neglected or underserved.”

When Educating about Grange Values is the Best Response

By: Amanda Brozana Rios, National Grange Communications Director

Many Grangers across the nation were rattled when they saw Washington State’s largest daily newspaper, the Seattle Times, ran a story early this week alleging Deer Lagoon Grange had become the target of a take over by a “far right group.”

The story can be used to start many discussions about the importance of holding our welcoming and obligation ceremonies, vetting members and ensuring all members are reminded or introduced to our fundamental values, especially inclusivity, nonpartisanship and civility.

It also allows us to take a moment to pause and think about how your Grange would respond not only to an insurgency but also press that paints you in a poor light.

For the Washington State Grange, the response was an op-ed sent to the newspaper – which has not yet been picked up to print – then posted to their social media, sent to members and posted to their website.

Read how Washington State Grange President Tom Gwin talks about the Grange and consider when planning your 2021 programming some efforts to ensure all of your new members and those you retain are reminded of our values.

If you’re interested in civil discussion, the Grange needs you

By Tom Gwin, Washington State Grange President

The National Grange and the Washington State Grange are proud of the legacy of our nonpartisan organization, founded more than 150 years ago, to encourage civil discussion and debate while requiring those who join to pledge to “conform to and abide by the laws of your state and nation.”

In the article published Sunday, Dec. 13 by Mike Carter regarding the controversy at Deer Lagoon Grange #842, concerns were raised as to the membership and activities at this local chapter, which has over its many years been known for excellent outreach in the community and thoughtful discussions about policies that impact the agriculture industry – from producer to consumer – and rural individuals.

The Grange was founded on the vision of bringing together a fractured nation after the Civil War by creating a fraternity for farmers that would transcend regional and political divisions. Again, today we see our country divided – this time by partisanship and unwillingness to respect others’ opinions. The Grange can be as essential today in bridging this gap as it was in 1867.

The Granges of Washington State have a strong history of through our non-partisan legislative involvement. Our Granges have been the champions of rural-free delivery by the U.S. Postal Service. The public power movement, which allowed for the creation of public utility districts, can be traced back to the Washington State Grange. We cannot forget Washington’s blanket primary election system, and its successor, the Top Two Primary are both the works of the Grange organization.

There is no place in our Order for individuals who cannot tolerate an open discussion without intimidation – as our Declaration of Purposes states, “difference of opinion is no crime.” The Grange is a place where people from all sides are bound, by their own pledge to membership, to come together to find a way forward for the betterment of our community and our nation.

What is happening in our communities large and small, is straining the American experiment. We cannot foster intolerance of our neighbors or fuel a me-first movement where we see only freedoms without responsibility. Democracy requires certain sacrifice, and the Grange is fundamentally rooted in this idea. Our motto, “In essentials, unity; in non-essentials, liberty; in all things, charity,” is clear and only those who embrace it can be Grangers.

However, stating our principles and standing by our convictions alone is not the end of this story. To ensure the Grange remains the Order it was founded to be – a leader in championing a strong and democratic union – the 150,000 members across the nation cannot stand alone. Our doors are open to anyone of good moral character, interested in preserving the common good and willing to abide by our values and our bylaws – and we hope that this includes you. Only through light can the darkness be vanquished. Only through welcoming new members who mean what they say when they take the oath of membership can we ensure the Grange remains a beacon in our communities.

If you are interested in assuring a brighter future for your community and nation - one that encourages tolerance and civil discourse, innovating solutions to local challenges and helping those need – go to wa-grange.com to identify the Grange nearest you, or contact the Washington State Grange at (360) 943-9911.

USDA, EPA and FDA Renew Formal Agreement Aimed at Reducing Food Waste

Press Release

On Thursday, Dec. 17, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced the renewal of the joint agency formal agreement including the Winning on Reducing Food Waste Initiative. The agreement reaffirms the agencies’ commitment to improve coordination and communication efforts to better educate Americans on the impacts and importance of reducing food loss and waste. Food loss and waste negatively impact food security, the economy, communities, and the environment.

Since the Trump Administration launched the Winning on Reducing Food Waste Initiative, the collaborative effort has achieved great success. Public-private partnerships, like the United States Food Loss and Waste 2030 Champions, are key to successfully reducing food loss and waste by implementing proven strategies and sharing best practices. In 2020, the Trump Administration welcomed ten new businesses and organizations to the 2030 Champions.

The renewed three-year agreement will continue to build on these successful partnerships and reiterate our shared commitment to work towards the national goal of reducing food loss and waste by 50 percent by 2030.

“The United States is getting a handle on its serious food waste problem,” said EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler. “The three-year renewal of this joint agency agreement will help our country achieve its ambitious goal of cutting food waste by 50 percent by 2030.”

“Our nation’s agricultural abundance should be used to nourish those in need, not fill the trash,” said U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue. “As the world’s population continues to grow and the food systems continue to evolve, now is the time to continue to educate consumers and businesses alike on the need for food waste reduction.”

“We’ve seen great strides in food loss and waste reduction since first entering the joint agency formal agreement with our federal colleagues, and through collaborative efforts with our public and private partners,” said FDA Commissioner Stephen M. Hahn, M.D. “At FDA, we’ve encouraged food manufacturers and retailers to standardize the way quality-based date labels are used on packaged foods and developed videos and materials to educate consumers. With these continued partnerships and important efforts, we’re on track to see a 50 percent reduction of food waste by 2030.”

As part of the Winning on Reducing Food Waste Initiative, EPA, USDA, and FDA issued its FY2019-2020 Federal Interagency Strategy in April 2019, which identifies six priority areas on which the agencies will focus their efforts to reduce food loss and waste in the U.S. In May 2020, the Federal Interagency Strategy was updated by listing contributing efforts for each of the strategy's six priority action areas:


• Priority Area 1: Enhance Interagency Coordination
• Priority Area 2: Increase Consumer Education and Outreach Efforts
• Priority Area 3: Improve Coordination and Guidance on Food Loss and Waste Measurement
• Priority Area 4: Clarify and Communicate Information on Food Safety, Food Date Labels, and Food Donations
• Priority Area 5: Collaborate with Private Industry to Reduce Food Loss and Waste Across the Supply Chain
• Priority Area 6: Encourage Food Waste Reduction by Federal Agencies in their Respective Facilities

The agencies also launched partnerships with organizations at the forefront of food loss and waste reduction efforts. In April 2019, the agencies signed an agreement with ReFED, a network of the nation's leading business, nonprofit, foundation, and government leaders committed to reducing U.S. food waste. In October 2019, another partnership with the Food Waste Reduction Alliance, formalized collaboration on education and outreach efforts with three major sectors of the supply chain: food manufacturing, retail, and restaurant and food service.

Background

The Winning on Reducing Food Waste Initiative is a collaborative effort among USDA, EPA, and FDA to reduce food loss and waste through combined and agency-specific actions. Individually and collectively, these agencies contribute to the initiative, encourage long-term food waste reductions, and work toward the goal of reducing food loss and waste in the U.S. These actions include research, community investments, education and outreach, voluntary programs, public-private partnerships, tool development, technical assistance, event participation, and policy discussion.

For more information on agency efforts contributing to the Winning on Reducing Food Waste Initiative, visit:

www.usda.gov/foodlossandwaste www.epa.gov/sustainable-management-food www.fda.gov/food/consumers/food-loss-and-waste

Meeting the national goal of cutting food waste in half by 2030 will take a sustained commitment from everyone. Success requires action from the entire food system.

Facts About Food Waste


• EPA estimates that more food (over 70 billion pounds) reaches landfills than any other material in everyday trash, constituting 24 percent of discarded municipal solid waste.
• Landfills are the third largest source of human-related methane emissions in the U.S.
• Food waste not only impacts landfill space and emissions, it negatively impacts the economy. USDA estimates the value of food loss and waste for retailers and consumers each year to be over $161 billion.
• Wasted food also results in unnecessary expenditures of U.S. domestic energy resources. Every time food is lost or wasted, all the energy that went into producing that food is also wasted.

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The National Grange HQ | 1616 H St. NW, Washington, DC 20006 | (202) 628-3507


POLICY UPDATES AND ISSUE NEWS

NOVEMBER 2020 WRAP-UP

Washington Overview

As Washington gets back to work following the election, key issues to watch for in the lame duck period before the new Congress is sworn in in January include coronavirus stimulus debates, government funding deadlines, and jockeying for leadership positions in the next Congress. As well, key picks for the Biden cabinet have been revealed in recent weeks.

COVID-19 Stimulus

COVID-19 stimulus has been negotiated and renegotiated on the Hill for the past few months, with little sign of a breakthrough as cases once again reach new heights across the United States. Nevertheless, this week two new efforts at relief have emerged. First, Senate Republicans released a narrow bill which allocates $500 billion primarily to businesses and schools and creates new temporary COVID-19 liability shields for corporations. Senate Republicans have touted this bill as a compromise and have the support of the White House. However, it is unlikely that such a bill will garner much Democratic support. A second $1 trillion effort presented by a bipartisan group of Senators has a higher likelihood of passing, although its fate remains uncertain at this time.

Budget Negotiations

Congress faces a deadline of December 11th to fund the government for another year. While funding deadlines have been the site of fraught political fights for the past few years, including government shutdowns, this year despite major differences on key policy areas, lawmakers are optimistic that they will be able to pass a funding bill by deadline.

Leadership Fights

Congressional leaders of both parties have been selected in recent weeks, with almost all key players reelected, including the leadership of both parties in the House and Senate. However, at the committee level jockeying for leadership positions continues on key committees. Both the House and Senate Agriculture committees will see new leadership in the next Congress following electoral defeat of Rep. Collin Peterson and the retirement of Senator Pat Roberts. The current favorites for both positions are Rep. David Scott of Georgia and Senator John Boozman of Arkansas. As well, in the House Energy and Commerce committee, Rep. Michael Burgess and Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers are both pushing for the coveted Ranking Member position. In many other key committees such as Senate Environment and Public Works and Senate Transportation committees, leadership will remain the same as in the current Congress.

Biden Cabinet Pick

In recent weeks, President-elect Joe Biden has announced key picks for diplomatic, national security, and economic positions. In his diplomatic selections, Biden’s most notable picks are Antony Blinken for Secretary of State, and the addition of John Kerry as a special Presidential Envoy for Climate Change. These picks, and others signal that Biden plans to return to an Obama-era foreign policy, but is likely to place an increased emphasis on climate change as a national security issue. In economic selections, the most significant picks Biden has made have been Janet Yellen for Treasury Secretary and Neera Tanden for Director of the Office of Management and Budget. While Yellen’s selection has signaled a middle-of-the-road economic strategy for the Biden administration and received support from both conservatives and progressives, Tanden is likely to face a tough confirmation battle due to her inflammatory twitter presence and feuds she has picked with conservatives and progressives alike over the years.

Biden Transition

The National Grange sent a letter to President-elect Biden’s transition team at USDA outlining several key rural and agricultural priorities where the new administration should focus. These include urgent access to rural broadband, additional rural health care support, immediate attention to crumbling rural infrastructure, upholding free and fair trade and any climate change decisions must be made using American agriculture data and not world figures.

Agriculture and Food

Agriculture Trumps Sports

For 20 years, Gallup has been tracking American’s views toward business and industry sectors. Farming and agriculture have generally scored among the top 5 most positive groups, but this year ag is number 1! Rounding out the top 5 industries are grocers, restaurants, computers and retailers. The health care, pharmaceutical and internet industries scored significant gains in positive views during 2020. The sports industry’s image deteriorated to near the bottom of the 25-industry list. Coming in dead last was the federal government.

Climate Change Action on the Horizon

Farmers and ranchers are expected to be big players in negotiations to reduce negative environmental impacts on the world’s climate. The agricultural community is looking for innovative ways that contribute real benefits through regenerative farming practices, carbon sequestration, methane gas reduction and applying sound management practices like nitrogen management, cover crops, no till planting and prescribed grazing. Whatever methods or programs are proposed will have to make sound economic sense to the producer. Will the benefits offered from carbon markets (nationwide cap and trade, carbon bank, etc.) be enough to entice participation? Are the metrics available to accurately measure the climate benefit from a practice and establish a price for that benefit? Will these climate mitigating programs hold up to scientific scrutiny? Whatever the approach to climate change in America, it will be crucial that the metrics use U.S. data not worldwide figures to benchmark current status and determine future goals.

Dairy Margin Coverage Deadline

Dairy producers are reminded to enroll in the Dairy Margin Coverage program by the December 11 deadline. The DMC offers reasonably priced protection to dairymen when the difference between the all-milk price and the average feed cost falls below a certain dollar amount selected by the producer.

Health Care

COVID-19 Vaccines on Fast Track

Health care history is being made at this moment. Three pharmaceutical companies have developed safe and effective vaccines to combat COVID-19 pandemic and presented them for FDA approval at warp speed previously considered impossible. Additional vaccines are in the development pipeline. Pfizer (with German collaborator BioNTech) and Moderna have vaccines at FDA awaiting expected approvals December 10 and December 17, respectively. AstraZeneca and Oxford University have completed successful tests on a third COVID vaccine. All three vaccines require two shots several weeks apart. All three vaccines require different forms of storage from super-cold to frozen to refrigerated. One area of concern is that rural hospitals do not have freezer equipment sufficient to accommodate all forms of the vaccine. Additional laboratories around the world have been contracted to produce large volumes of approved vaccines in order to immunize as many people as possible in the shortest time frame. While vaccines cannot be delivered to doctors until approved by FDA, they are being pre-positioned at distribution sites to allow faster delivery once approval is granted. States and territories are expected to begin receiving shipments by mid-December. Vaccines are to be rolled out first to front-line health care workers, then to nursing home residents and first responders, and then to other vulnerable people (medically compromised, elderly, etc.). Access to vaccines for the general public is expected by April or May 2021.

But There’s Skepticism

Public polling shows a sizable number of people are not willing to trust a first-generation vaccine. Skeptics alleged politicization of the development process, the speed of development and safety concerns. The skepticism is significantly higher among Black and Latino respondents. Only 42% of Americans said “yes” when asked by Pew Research Center if they’d get a COVID-10 vaccine when it becomes available. However, an internal survey of members by the National Grange found that nearly 60% of Grangers would get COVID-19 vaccine as soon as available if proven safe and effective.

Consider All Immunization Options

National Grange president Betsy Huber submitted testimony to FDA’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices urging the advisory group to consider all options for COVID-19 immunization. Farmers, ranchers and rural residents work long hours and must travel long distances and make multiple trips to reach a provider who can administer the vaccine which may reduce their likelihood of receiving immunization. “We encourage FDA to investigate flexible delivery options so that all may be protected from COVID-19. We believe that a COVID-19 oral vaccine option would significantly aid this effort”, she said.

COVID-19 Resources Available

The National Grange and over 50 patient, community, elder, veteran, care-giver and industry groups aim to assure the messages of sound science, regulatory rigor and equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines are heard. The COVID-19 Education and Equity Project has prepared one-pager and infographic resource materials and will continue to develop new materials in the coming weeks. Contact the National Grange for more information.

Cover COVID Treatments for Medicaid Beneficiaries

The National Grange joined numerous patient groups calling on HHS Secretary Azar to ensure COVID treatments are available to Medicaid beneficiaries without delay and without prior authorization barriers. “All FDA-approved treatments for COVID, including those approved under an Emergency Use Authorization, must be covered for Medicaid beneficiaries without delay and without prior authorization requirements, “according to the group.

Grange Touts Chronic Pain Management

The Hill newsletter in Washington published an opinion editorial by National Grange president Betsy Huber calling attention to the fact that chronic pain has contributed so much to the tragic opioid crisis in Rural America. She noted that the National Grange will support national and state initiatives that encourage the research and development of new pain relief therapies, and host robust policy discussions about pain management among fellow Grange members and their rural communities to ensure our unique needs are being met.

Rural Education

The National Grange has long supported and been a member of the Organizations Concerned About Rural Education (OCRE). OCRE includes more than two dozen national education, farm, agriculture, telecom, energy, tribal and business organizations dedicated to the improvement of public education in rural communities and the fostering of economic development in rural America. OCRE has recommended several rural education priorities to President-elect Biden including stabilize education programs to function under the COVID-19 pandemic, create an Office of Rural Education Policy at the Department of Education, invest in rural school infrastructure, and federally finance initiatives to ensure all students have access to robust, reliable and affordable broadband services at school and home.

Telecommunications

Democrats Commit to Broadband

President-elect Biden and Congressional Democrats are seeking a massive increase in federal broadband spending for next year to improve Internet access and affordability. Their proposals would extend the availability of broadband in hard-to-reach rural areas, assist families struggling to pay their Internet bills, and provide more funding to schools for computers and other equipment. The pandemic brought the consequences of the lack of connectivity into sharp focus as families were forced to turn to the web to do their jobs, complete classwork, order groceries and supplies, and keep in touch with loved ones.

Chairman Pai to Exit FCC

Federal Communications Commission Chairman Ajit Pai has announced he will step down in January. President Obama appointed Pai as a FCC Commissioner in 2012 and President Trump appointed him to lead the agency as chairman in 2017. Pai grew up in rural Kansas and has worked diligently toward connecting the “last mile” of rural landscape to the Internet. He always welcomed input from the National Grange and appointed president Betsy Huber to a FCC advisory committee and subcommittee. Pai was named as Champion of Rural America in 2018 by the National Grange. Commissioner Jessica Rosenworcel from Connecticut is widely viewed as the leading contender to become the chair.

Focus on Rural Telehealth

Congress should strengthen rural access to broadband for communities to utilize telehealth services according to National Grange president Betsy Huber in an opinion editorial featured in Washington‘s Agri-Pulse newsletter. “Our leaders in Washington deserve credit for their swift action to meet the COVID-19 public health challenge. However, there is still much work to do to connect rural communities to modern health solutions to address both immediate and long term needs,” she wrote.

Audit USDA’s Rural eConnectivity Pilot Program

Several Republican members of the House Commerce Committee have requested the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to audit the Reconnect pilot. They cite several concerns about the use of ReConnect funds to overbuild existing rural broadband networks, lack of interagency coordination and lack of transparency. Committee members are concerned that the program has not maintained its focus on rural communities without internet service.

Perspective

"I don’t believe an accident of birth makes people sisters or brothers. It makes them siblings, gives them mutuality of parentage. Sisterhood and brotherhood is a condition people have to work at." ~ Maya Angelou

"We must live together as brothers or perish as fools." ~ Martin Luther King

"The next best thing to being wise oneself is to live in a circle of those who are." ~ C.S. Lewis

"We are obliged to respect, defend and maintain the common bonds of union and fellowship that exist among all members of the human race." ~ Marcus Tullius Cicero

"Our love to God is measured by our everyday fellowship with others and the love it displays." ~ Andrew Murray

Please submit your feedback and questions to Burton Eller or Sean O'Neil.

Burton Eller
Legislative Director
(202) 628-3507 ext. 114
beller@nationalgrange.org

Sean O'Neil
Legislative Intern
sean.oneil@grange.org

National Grange | 1616 H Street NW, Washington, DC 20006


November 2020

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NOVEMBER 27, 2020



Zoom Convention

By: Betsy E. Huber, National Grange President

The 154th Annual National Grange Session is completed, and it is certainly one for the history books! All 52 delegates plus officers participated virtually, with “Session Central” taking place in the National Grange Headquarters, Washington DC, with only staff present in person.

Zoom sessions were held for a total of 14 hours over two days and 97 resolutions were deliberated, two officers elected, and a meaningful memorial service conducted. Earlier in November the eight committees Zoomed for many hours to discuss, amend, and make recommendations on their resolutions and policy statements. Although we would rather have been together in person, it was great to see and chat with friends, but we missed having you there!

Of course, during this Thanksgiving week, we are reflecting on all the things we have to be thankful for. We were able to hold a National Grange convention and accomplish all our necessary business. Our Grange is alive and well, even though the many challenges of 2020. We all have plenty to eat—if you don’t, please call your local Grange; I know they would be happy to help. We still have family, even though we may not be able to gather around the table for a big dinner this week. We have technology to be able to talk with them even if we can’t be together.

The harvest was plentiful, and we have faith that next year will bring another season of planting and harvesting. We are indeed most blessed, and I am thankful for all of you and your Grange work in the local communities. Happy Thanksgiving!

154th Convention Makes History

By Amanda Brozana Rios, National Grange Communications Director

At one of the shortest National sessions on record, the officers and delegates of the Order met for a digital convention on Tuesday and Wednesday, Nov. 17-18, to discuss policy and procedures, honor past leaders of the organization and more.

Committees were assigned and met in advance of the convention through the Zoom platform, to work through the nearly 100 resolutions that were put before the body, making the business much more manageable for the condensed format.

National Grange Legislative Director Burton Eller said the process went smoothly and allowed committees time to research, discuss and address the concerns of the members that had been moved through the grassroots process to this highest legislative body of the Order. “The committees have been meeting to review present policy in the past but allowing them to assess present policy and resolutions worked out well. This is something that can improve our process for years to come, even when we get back to meeting in person,” Eller said. Several new policies will allow Eller and other members to offer Grange perspective on the current state of agriculture in the United States. Additionally, delegates adopted resolutions related to topics of the day that are “off the farm,” such as vaccinations and pandemic preparedness, chronic pain and opioid issues, support for the USPS and local newspapers, the number of justices on the Supreme Court, and more.

Members and the public were able to see much of the convention on the National Grange YouTube channel live - and those livestreams remain available to view.

National Grange President Betsy Huber said she has heard much praise for the session. “All the feedback I’ve heard has been positive,” Huber said. She said while everyone has noted their disappointment in not meeting in person in Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, the virtual version was a suitable substitute.

The scaled-down session had little of the usual flair, but the Junior, Youth and Lecturer’s Departments made up for that with events Friday and Saturday evening, showing off talent of members and announcing new Youth Team members for the 2020-21 year.

Next year when we will all be able to meet it will be a convention to celebrate. We look forward to being with our Grange family in Kansas and hope to see you there.

2021 Grange Ambassadors

By: Kennedy Gwin

With convention done virtually and many of the ambassador’s duties cut short due to COVID the 2021 teams are looking familiar. For the National Junior Grange Ambassadors Bryce Danko from Pennsylvania and Brianna Gervais from Connecticut will continue another year as ambassadors.

Their focus this upcoming year will be on continuing the Agriculture awareness project, continuing leadership workshops, designing and creating junior passports as well as hosting Cultivated Connections episodes. They also will be getting active in the Grange social media, so make sure to follow to check out what they have to say! We are excited they both get to carry on their work, and we look forward to the upcoming year.

Up next is the National Grange Youth team. Our new 2021 National Grange Youth Ambassador is Britney Mercado from New York. Britney was a National Grange representative in 2019 at the CADCA midyear training institute in Grapevine, TX. Next on the National Grange Youth Team are National Grange Young Patrons Molly and Vince Newman. Molly and Vince are high school sweethearts and have a daughter named Kimber, who they are raising to have a deep love of Grange. They also serve as Kansas Asst. and Lady Asst. Steward. When asked about goals for the team this upcoming year National Grange Youth Director Mandy Bostwick said “my goals for this next year is to continue to provide meaningful leadership opportunities for the Grange Youth to prepare them to be the future leaders of the Grange”.

This next year, Director Mandy Bostwick, went on to explain that her goal with this group is to “find a good balance between Youth and Young Adults in the program. We tend to focus on the youth side of things and praise our 14-23 year old’s (high school and college aged youth) but continue to tell our young adults, 24-35, that they’re too young to be in a major leadership positions. In the past few years there have been an increase in the young adults becoming state officers, but I want to use this team to come up with programming that benefits both the youth and young adults simultaneously.”

National Grange Digest of Laws updated, available now!

Only one update was made to the National Grange Digest of Laws, on page 25 in Chapter 4. The change notes that Executive Committees may take action on behalf of the Grange between meetings in time of emergency or need (bolded text added per delegate action).

The 2021 edition is now available online at National Grange website.



Meeting ID: 525-965-930 Password: 981892

The National Grange HQ | 1616 H St. NW, Washington, DC 20006 | (202) 628-3507


NOVEMBER 6, 2020


PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE: Participating in the Process

By: Betsy E. Huber, National Grange President

As we wait patiently (or not!) for the Presidential election results, life goes on. Regardless of the outcome, your National Grange will work with the administration and all its departments to advance the policies determined at past National sessions and at the upcoming virtual session in 10 days. As we all know, the Grange has always been strictly nonpartisan and has worked closely with administrations of both parties since 1867. We will continue to do so, no matter which party wins.

I continue to encourage you all to continue to act as brothers and sisters. This was a democratic election in which more Americans voted than ever before; therefore we all win. The United States is still the greatest country in the world and we need to do everything in our individual power to remain so and support our democracy by being involved in the process, as millions were on Tuesday, and remaining involved in the governing through the next four years and beyond.

Grangers should step up and run for office in their local communities. I know we have many members who are township supervisors, town council members, school board members—this is wonderful. We need to encourage the next generation to get involved at the local level and continue our Grange tradition of civic responsibility. Remember, we can’t complain about the outcomes if we don’t participate in the process!

Remember to watch for the information so you can watch portions of the 154th National Grange Convention November 17-18.

Election in Review

By: Sean O’Neil

On November 3rd, polls closed across the United States on the highest turnout American election in over 100 years. As it stands, key races have not been definitively decided and some votes remain to be counted. Nevertheless, below is a short recap of how key rural/agricultural Senate and House races stand currently.

Senate:

Key incumbent Senators in agriculture/rural states Susan Collins (ME), Joni Ernst (IA), and Steve Daines (MT) won reelection in tight races. Meanwhile, Doug Jones (AL) lost to the Republic Challenger Tommy Tuberville, Cory Gardner (CO) lost to Democratic challenger John Hickenlooper, and Republican Representative Roger Marshall (KS) won the race to succeed Agriculture Committee Chairman Pat Roberts in the Senate. As well, the election is likely headed to a January run-off in both Georgia Senate races with Agriculture committee member Kelly Loeffler (GA) facing Democratic challenger Raphael Warnock and cousin of Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue, David Perdue facing Democratic challenger Jon Ossoff.

House:

In the House many of the tightest races this year will came in agricultural/rural districts. Democrats were largely disappointed by their results in tight rural races, as agriculture committee members Xochitl Torres Small (NM-2), Anthony Brindisi (NY-22), Abby Finkenauer (IA-1), and most significantly Agriculture Committee Chair Colin Peterson (MN-7) all lost their reelection. As well, Democrats lost key agricultural/rural House races in CA-21 and IA-2. In contrast, Republicans were able to win two key agricultural committee seats held by Rodney Davis (IL-13) and Jim Hagedorn (MN-1). It is important to note here though, that while Democrats may have been disappointed and Republicans happy with these specific results, Democrats have maintained their control of the House.

National Grange Convention 2020

By: Amanda Brozana Rios, National Grange Communications Director

This year’s National Grange Convention will be unlike any we’ve held previously, with delegates and officers participating virtually through Zoom. Members, however, can still see select parts of the convention on Tuesday, Nov. 17-18 by going to our YouTube channel at https://youtube.com/user/nationalgrange. Whenever we are live, you will see the video streaming. Past live events can also be viewed on that channel. The live coverage will begin at about 1:45 p.m. Eastern/10:45 a.m. Pacific on Tuesday, Nov. 17 with the “State of the American Communities” address by National Grange President Betsy Huber. Several committee reports will be live-streamed throughout the rest of the day, and the evening will close with a memorial service coordinated by National Grange Chaplain Barbara Borderieux at 8:30 p.m. Eastern/5:30 p.m. Pacific. On Wednesday, Nov. 18, viewers can see the Opening of the National Grange session in the Fourth Degree at noon Eastern/9 a.m. Pacific and additional committee reports. In the evening at about 8:15 p.m. Eastern/5:15 p.m. Pacific, reports will be provided by the Grange Foundation and Grange Advocacy, followed by the installation of the two executive committee officers and introduction of the 155th Annual Convention details. Mark your calendars and join us from the comfort of your own home. It’s not quite like enjoying the fraternal atmosphere of an in-person session, but we’d still love to have you present!

“Innovation from Farm to Table” Recap

By: Kennedy Gwin

On October 22, 2020 National Grange President Betsy Huber, hosted the virtual panel discussion “Innovation from Farm to Table” where industry leaders discussed agricultural innovation and its role in domestic food security, and the food supply chain. The panelists include Kevin Igli, Sustainability and Chief Environmental Officer of Tyson Foods, Colin Woodall, CEO of National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, Todd Van Hoose, President and CEO of Farm Credit Council, and Gary Sloan from Feed the Children. Each of these panelists gave their insight into how the agricultural industry is continuing to change and how their individual organizations have adopted these changes.

Some of these discussions include how COVID-19 impacted their organizations, how they are adopting to issues of climate change, and how to deal with growing hunger in the United States.

While discussing COVID-19 and what we have learned about the supply food chain amidst the pandemic Kevin Igli made it clear that we are still “in the thick of it” due to lack of communication among producers and consumers. Kevin went on to explain that we need to continue to discuss what we have learned and how we can prevent the COVID-19 bottleneck that occurred between producers and consumers when the pandemic first broke out. As these conversations occur the agricultural industry can continue to build preventative measures and effective solutions for the future.

Another panelist, Gary Sloan explained that on the non-profit side the pandemic revealed that there is more need than ever before. Gary shared the statistic “that before the pandemic 1 in 7 children were dealing with hunger whereas during the pandemic it was 1 in 4” and Feed the Children has been working very hard to try to alleviate these numbers. When the pandemic first broke out purchasing can food was much harder than before and because of the COVID-19 crisis many other non-profits had to close, making resources limited.

As the panel continued the question of “what will the world of agriculture face in the future and how will it impact agriculture” came up and a resounding answer was “climate change”. These industry leaders went on to explain that the world of farming is becoming more innovative in the world of climate change and continues to develop new technologies to alleviate greenhouse gas emissions.

These technologies include the altering of genetic material to produce more meat, to developing new ways to conserve water. Colin from the Cattleman’s Beef Association explained that currently the meat they are producing is the same amount they have been producing in 1980 but at a third of the resources thanks to innovative breeding and genetic practices. As the conversation of climate change continued discussions of water and how Tyson has partnered with local NGOs to reduce their climate impact by 20% by 2030.

After discussions of climate change the topic was changed to how we continue the fight against hunger in the US and Gary from Feed the Children, the biggest issue being how to move the food. Gary went on to say the regulations we currently have in place create massive slowdowns that prevent us from moving to high need places in a timely manner and that as these restrictions were repealed food was able to move faster.

Todd Van Hoose from Farm Credit followed up the conversation with what his organization has been doing to grow independently family farms. Todd said the need for Farm Credit to remain stable and consistent is the key to maintaining this process. Todd expressed that the continued need to keep these lines of credit open were key to continuing family owned farms in the US during a downturned economy.

The extensive knowledge these leaders were able to share gave a holistic view of how the food chain operates and how the farming industry continues to change every day. To watch the seminar, go to our Facebook page or go to the National Grange YouTube channel.

The National Grange HQ | 1616 H St. NW, Washington, DC 20006 | (202) 628-3507


REPORT SCAM ATTEMPTS

There are numerous recent telephone and email scams in which individuals claim to be employees of the Treasury Department. These scammers often state that they are from the “Department of Legal Affairs,” offer grant money in exchange for you wiring a small payment, or threaten to arrest you within a short period of time unless payment is made. Do not provide personal information or payment to these individuals. Their actions are crimes under Titles 18 and 31 of the United States Code.

PHONE AND EMAIL SCAMS

If they claim to be from the Treasury (non-IRS), report it to OIGCounsel@oig.treas.gov. For any report of a fraudulent call, include:


• The exact date and time that you received the call (s)
• The phone number of the caller
• The geographic location and time zone where you received the call
• A description of the communication.

If they claim to be from the Internal Revenue Service, report it to phishing@irs.gov, subject line: “IRS phone scam.” You may also report these calls to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, which has jurisdiction over IRS-related matters.

MAIL SCAMS

If you receive something suspicious in the mail claiming to be from the US Department of the Treasury, report it to the Treasury Inspector General:

• OIG Hotline Page • Email: oigcounsel@oig.treas.gov • Phone: 800-359-3898 (toll free)

If you receive something suspicious in the mail claiming to be from the Internal Revenue Service, report it to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration


October 2020

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OCTOBER 2020 WRAP-UP

Heading Into the Election

Next Tuesday, November 3rd, Americans will head to the polls to vote in an election unlike any other in recent memory. Or perhaps, it’s more accurate to say that on November 3rd the election will come to a close, as 75 million Americans have already voted as of the writing of this piece, and millions more will vote by mail or early in-person ballot before election day. Either way, here is a brief rundown on races to watch in key rural Senate and House seats.

Senate:

The race to control the Senate hinges on many key rural and agricultural races. Vulnerable incumbents in agriculture/rural states include Agriculture Committee members Joni Ernst (IA) and Kelly Loeffler (GA), along with Senators from big rural states such as David Perdue (GA), cousin of Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue, Steve Daines (MT), and Doug Jones (AL). As well, in the race for the open seat of retiring Agriculture Committee Chair Pat Roberts (KS), current House Agriculture Committee member Roger Marshall is favored.

House:

In the House many of the tightest races this year will come in agricultural/rural districts. Most prominently, House Agriculture Committee Chair Collin Peterson (MN-7) is one of the most vulnerable members up for reelection this year as he runs as a democrat in a district President Trump carried by 31 points in 2016. Other vulnerable agriculture committee members include Democrats Xochitl Torres Small (NM-2) and Anthony Brindisi (NY-22), and Republicans Jim Hagedorn (MN-1) and Rodney Davis (IL-13). Other close agriculture/rural House races to watch on election night include CA-21, IA-1, and IA-2.

Agriculure and Food

Free School Meals Continue

Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue has authorized the extension of nationwide flexibilities to allow free meals for all children throughout the 2020-2021 school year regardless of whether the students are physically in the classroom or learning remotely. The meals will include both breakfast and lunch. The extension includes waivers which eliminate many regulatory hurdles and allows school nutrition staff to customize meal service to suit the specific needs of local school communities. Additional funding provided in the continuing appropriations law passed by Congress in late September made the extension possible.

‘Swine Bomb’ Warning

The nation’s wild hog population is surging, and over 9 million feral hogs have now invaded 35 states, warns the USDA. Texas has the most with over 2.5 million hogs that destroy a third of the crops on some farms and ranches. As an invasive species, they have been known to attack young cattle, sheep and goats. Populations have grown even more dramatically over the past 6 months as the coronavirus pandemic has kept hunters at home who normally are able to help control the feral population.

Supreme Court Upholds Right to Farm

The U.S. Supreme Court has rejected a challenge to overturn Indiana’s Right to Farm Act that claimed the Act violated the U. S. Constitution. The court ruled that just because the defendant switched from growing crops to a confined animal feeding operation, that conversion did not constitute a “significant change” under the Indiana statute.

Oat Milk Popularity Surges

It’s just been a few years since oat milk first appeared on grocery shelves. Now, oat milk is the second most popular plant-based milk, edging out soy milk, to claim its place behind almond milk which has 63% of the plant-based market. Oat milk proponents say the product is high in protein and fiber, is allergy friendly, and ranks high on sustainability calculators because oats are not water intensive to grow.

Impossible Foods Goal: Eliminate Animal Agriculture

Impossible Foods, an investor-backed company deeply focused on creating plant-based food alternatives, is trying to hire top scientists to double the size of its research and development teams as it tries to end animal agriculture. Impossible’s next big innovation is expected to be dairy-free Impossible Milk that looks, acts and tastes just like cow’s milk. The company also wants to tackle a more realistic steak and fish alternative to compete with Beyond Meat and other companies.

Health Care

COVID-19 Vaccine Options

The National Grange filed comments October 15 with the FDA’s Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee to urge the FDA to consider any and all COVID-19 vaccine delivery options. The Grange suggested innovative options such as an oral vaccine in pill form should be pursued alongside the traditional injection format. For those from rural walks of life with limited access and formidable barriers, these innovative options will help assure a vulnerable population receives priority health and safety attention. The Grange comments received wide coverage in national media as well as local, rural and agricultural media outlets.

Vaccination Survey

Grange members across the country are currently participating in a survey to discover their comfort level with accepting a COVID-19 vaccine when it becomes available. The survey also seeks to determine how likely a pill option for all vaccines will be utilized.

Rural Versus Urban Death Rising

A recent Syracuse University report shows mortality rates among working people living in rural areas compared to urban areas is widening. The report suggests the rural disadvantage is not limited to just one or two specific causes of death but persists across multiple diseases and injury categories. Increases in suicide, alcoholism, mental and behavioral disorders, diabetes, obesity, and respiratory diseases are major culprits.

Cow Therapy

Europeans are rushing to embrace an alleged wellness fad: cow-hugging. In these increasingly hectic and stressful times, people there are seeking calm wherever they can find it from frolicking through fields to adopting plants. The latest fad to reduce stress is cow-hugging. According to the BBC, cows are chosen for their warm body temperatures and calm demeanor.

Paper as Preferred Option

Many Grange members prefer to receive bills, notices, statements and more on paper by mail rather than digitally. They don’t want to be charged extra for the preferred paper option. The National Grange and the Keep Me Posted Coalition investigated how large corporations are addressing consumer needs and expectations. Recently the billing practices of the top 10 Fortune 500 telecommunications companies were evaluated to see how they align with KMP’s best practices that include:


• No charge for paper bills
• Prior customer consent to cease paper documents
• No change in paper document frequency
• Ability to revert back to paper
• Continued access to online options

Eight of the country’s top 10 telecommunications companies embrace these best practices and put their customers’ preference first. These are AT&T, Comcast, Charter/Spectrum, T-Mobile, Century Link, Dish Network, Cox Communications and US Cellular.

Telecommunications

Hybrid-Network Broadband Deployment

The National Grange and a large group of agricultural, rural, businesses and civic organizations filed comments in support of Federal Communications Commission plans to update rules to allow the use of TV white space technology to expand hybrid-network technology broadband systems. Rule updates will allow higher transmit power, higher antennas for fixed devices in rural areas, and higher power mobile operations within geofenced areas.

Rural Broadband Boost

Phase one auction of the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund began October 29. The fund has $16 billion over 10 years provided by Congress available to broadband providers to offer broadband and voice services to unserved areas with download speeds of at least 25 megabits per second download and 3 megabits upload. RDOF requires providers to offer at least one voice and one broadband service meeting the relevant service requirements to all locations within the awarded area. The National Grange has supported this initiative from the beginning. National Grange president Betsy Huber told several news outlets, “All of the publicity this year about the necessity of broadband has made Congress and the general public aware there are many areas in this country that are not connected.”

Rural Hotspots

Statistics show over 18 million Americans lack high-speed internet, including 9 million K-12 students and 400,000 public school teachers. Thankfully, temporary Wi-Fi hot spots are spring up in rural communities around the country. Look for these at places like Land O’Lakes facilities, Tractor Supply stores, rural electric coops, 4-H buildings and Grange halls.

End Notes ..... A Divided Nation

A September poll by the bipartisan Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget confirmed that Americans disagree on national goals and have markedly different views about the future direction of the country. Democrats rank “improving health care affordability” and “improving racial injustice” as top priorities. Republicans rank “having a strong and growing economy” and “putting America first” as top national priority goals. Overall, however, more than 80 percent of Americans hold such values as free speech, equal justice under the law, and ensuring everyone has an opportunity to succeed as defining national values. According to Michael. V. Murphy, the Committee’s director to address the root causes of our growing divisions observed, “One thing this poll tells us is that efforts to unite our divided nation are going to have to start at the community level, where people can come together every day to solve hard problems and work toward the common good.”

Perspective

“Remember there’s no such thing as a small act of kindness. Every act creates a ripple with no logical end.” Scott Adams

“Human Kindness has never weakened the stamina or softened the fiber of a free people. A nation does not have to be cruel in order to be tough.” Franklin D. Roosevelt

“Three things in human life are important. The first is to be kind. The second is to be kind. And the third is to be kind.” Henry James

“Practice random kindness and senseless acts of beauty.” Anne Herbert

“There is no wrong way to perform an act of kindness.” Roald Dahl

“You cannot do a kindness too soon, for you never know how soon it will be too late.” Ralph Waldo Emerson

Feedback and questions are welcome. Call Burton Eller, at (202) 628-3507 ext. 114 or email beller@nationalgrange.org



OCTOBER 23, 2020


PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE: Promoting Civility Among Partisan Politics

Betsy E. Huber, National Grange President

As we are now only ten days out from the presidential election, I would remind all members that the Grange is strictly non-partisan and we should avoid any appearance of supporting any candidates or party politics that might be construed as endorsement by the Grange. Of course under the first amendment you are free to speak your mind, but please don’t do so with photos of you with your officer’s sash on or under the Grange emblem.

Like everyone else it seems, we encourage you to exercise your right to vote. Of course the Grange has always encouraged voting and civic participation; we are not new to this field. Also remember that we are brothers and sisters in the Grange. We can disagree and argue to support our opinions, but we remain civil and even if we disagree, we remain friends. This may be a rare quality in today’s world! But it may attract others to join us, if we demonstrate that we are involved in public affairs but not consumed by them. Reasonable, balanced discussion is rare today and I believe people are searching for that rather than the combative speech we see constantly on TV and social media.

Keep these things in mind for the next ten days—and after—and let’s show the nation that Grangers can rise above partisan battles and work together for the good of our country. Thank you!

Turning State Convention into Action

By Joe Stefenoni Membership Director

With our annual convention season in full swing, it’s appropriate to look at how what we do at our State Grange Conventions can be turned into steps toward membership development. Even as most of our State Granges have moved to a fully virtual or mixed virtual annual meeting, these opportunities still exist. At our State Grange conventions, we adopt new legislative policies, recognize the contributions of individual Grange members and celebrate the successes of our Community Granges.

After our State Grange conventions is a perfect time to write letters to the editor, op-eds and craft informative social media posts. No matter what medium you choose (preferably all of them), you should be focused on sharing new legislative updates, and any recognitions received by your members or Grange. Updates on legislative activities should talk about the resolutions passed by the State Grange delegates that are related to timely issues of the day. Even better would be if your Grange submitted any resolutions that were adopted, that have a specific impact or relationship to your community.

Especially critical to laying the groundwork for membership development is making sure that relevance and context are at the forefront of these communications. Make sure that your letters, articles and posts are relevant in terms of the topics you share. Focus on resolutions that were sent from your Grange and adopted, or that have an impact on your area. Also include context about how the Grange’s legislative policy is set and/or the Grange programs that members are recognized for. These actions will play a large role in long-term membership development by building name and brand recognition for the Grange.

One Week to Enter Contests

By Chris Hamp National Grange Lecturer

2020 National Grange Publicity Item Contest | CLICK HERE Entries for the 2020 National Grange Publicity Item Contest are due October 31st. Remember, the primary goal of this contest is to share ideas – ideas of the types and kinds of events that you are doing as well as the ways that you are publicizing your events. Please share EVERY flyer, poster, sandwich board, button, t-shirt, Facebook event notice, newsletter, placemat and display that you create to advertise your Grange – there is no limit on the number of items that can be entered by a Grange. The more entries received the more ideas to share!

2020 National Grange Quilt Block Contest Please continue to send me your quilt blocks. The more the better! Remember, the National Grange Quilt Block Contest is open to members and non-members alike. Quilt blocks are due to me by October 31st.

2020 National Grange Virtual Photo Contest Entries for the 2020 National Grange Virtual Photo Contest are due October 31st. This is a new contest open to members and non-members alike and replaces the Photography Showcase which was limited to one Best of Show entry per State Grange. All photos entered will become the property of the National Grange and may be used in National Grange publications and virtual media.

2020 Evening of Excellence | State Grange Lecturers, please make sure to submit your Best of Show talent entry for our 2020 National Grange Evening of Excellence to be held virtually on Saturday, November 21, 2020. Each State Lecturer is responsible for certifying their state’s Best of Show winner and for submitting the registration paperwork by October 31, 2020. We need at least eight states to submit a Best of Show entry in order for the Evening of Excellence to occur.



New Member Benefits Program

By: Brian Zibuda President of ABZ Benefits

As you might imagine, the effort to fund our organization is a never-ending one and 2020 has been especially challenging for us all.

But instead of raising dues or selling you products, we’ve discovered a better way for you, and us, to earn extra cash, simply by doing what we all already do – shopping online! We are now introducing Cash Back Connections which provides a win-win fundraising program for organizations. Members and supporters get cash back on what they buy, and The Grange wins by earning revenue on what our members spend when shopping online through our customized platform. The program is free for us and free for you as a valuable supporter.

Please visit our fundraising site today at http://www.cashbackconnections.com/grange. There you can sign up for free and start earning cash back that will be crucial for our organization.

New Poll Jump Starts Citizen Engagement Effort to Help Unite Americans

Courtesy of FixUS National Dialogue Project

Today FixUS, the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget's initiative to engage Americans to better understand and address the root causes of our growing divisions, released a new poll as a springboard for a national dialogue to identify areas of commonality within our highly polarized citizenry. The Ipsos poll explored the topic of what values, goals, and aspirations Americans feel most strongly about for themselves, their communities, and their country.

"It goes without saying that 2020 has been a tumultuous year already, and we are still in the closing chapter of a highly contested presidential election" said Maya MacGuineas, FixUS co-founder and president of the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget. "Americans feel divided and alienated from one another and from the political process. It is important that no matter the outcome of the election, we remain focused on what will be the long and difficult work of reuniting the country."

Fielded last month, the poll was designed to better understand Americans' goals and values at the individual, community, and national levels. The findings confirm what many already suspect to be true: Americans lack consensus on national goals, with starkly different views about the current state, direction, and future of the country.

The poll found that Democrats rank "improving healthcare affordability" and "improving racial justice" as their top priorities, whereas Republicans rank "having a strong and growing economy" and "putting America first" as top national policy goals. By wide margins Republicans much more than Democrats believe America has "a strong and growing economy" (81% to 37%), has "affordable healthcare" (57% to 22%), "ensures racial justice" (65% to 22%), and "provides jobs and opportunity for all" (85% to 35%).

But the poll also signaled potential areas of commonality. "While this poll only scratches the surface when it comes to understanding the challenges facing our democracy, it provides reasons to be hopeful," said Michael V. Murphy, director of FixUS. "The results show that despite our divisions, there are core values and goals at the individual and community level that, if better understood and focused on, may serve as a bridge to overcome the divides that at the national level dominate our daily discourse."

Most Americans believe the country to be characterized by certain underlying values. For example, more than 80 percent of Americans hold such values as free speech, equal justice under law, and ensuring everyone has an opportunity to succeed, as defining national values. Americans are also united on fundamental and simple goals for ourselves, our families, and our communities, including being healthy, having financial security, and living in safe communities.

"One thing this poll tells us is that efforts to unite our divided nation are going to have to start at the community level, where people come together every day to solve hard problems and work toward the common good. As citizens, no matter our political viewpoints, we should demand no less of our leaders in Washington," Murphy added.

The National Dialogue on Common Goals, Values, and Aspirations will further explore these issues through volunteer focus groups, surveys, and other interactive engagements. Because of the deep distrust and divide between the public and leading institutions, citizens will have to take the lead in rebuilding our nation following the tumultuous events of 2020, and FixUS intends for this effort to serve as a possible model for how to do so.

New Fire Safety Passport for Juniors

By: Samantha Wilkins

Check out our new Fire Safety Passport made by Junior Ambassador Bryce Danko. This passport was made to support Fire Safety month and teach juniors about everyday hazards they may encounter. If you are interested in submitting a passport for Jr. Grangers across the country to do go online to the website below and click on a category and fill in the steps. This program is a great way to engage Junior Grangers outside of the classroom in topics that traditionally would not be taught. To find this specific passport go to https://www.nationaljuniorgrange.org/junior-grange-passport/

The National Grange HQ | 1616 H St. NW, Washington, DC 20006 | (202) 628-3507



Every year since 1873, the California State Grange has met in Annual Session to transact the busines of the Grange. One of the principle order of business is the presentation of resolutions from the Community Grange for consideration.

What does it mean when we talk about “Consideration” of the resolutions? Almost exclusively, the formation of Grange policy is a bottom-up procedure. Resolutions typically originate from the Community Granges across California. We know this process as grass-roots policy formation. These resolutions will be referred to committees appointed by the State President and Vice President. These committees will review the assigned resolutions; make amendments, and present a final, edited resolution for discussion by the Delegates, making a recommendation of favorable or unfavorable.

Once the committees finish their work, the resolutions are presented to Delegates at the Annual Session for consideration. The Delegate are able to further amend the resolutions before them, discuss the merits of the resolutions and in the end, either adopt or reject the resolution.

Those resolutions adopted then become the policies of the California State Grange and are added to the policy handbook.

At this session, 40 resolutions were submitted for consideration. Of the total submitted, 19 would be considered as addressing internal issues (Amend by-laws, board policy etc.)

By the close of session 29 resolutions were adopted and 11 were either combined, rejected, or postponed indefinitely.

You can click here to view a pdf copy of the adopted resolutions.



One of the highlights of any State Grange Annual Session is the address by the elected leader of our organization.

In the world outside of the Grange, this speech is equivalent to the State of the Union address.

President Kent Westwood, after reminding us that 2020 will be a year that will forever be remembered, proceeded to delivered good news. The Grange lawsuit against the Fort Bragg Guild, aka The Fort Bragg-Inglenook Community Center, was decided by the Mendocino County Superior Court in favor of the California State Grange on all counts. The Guild is now required to return the Fort Bragg Grange Hall to the members of the Fort Bragg Grange, along with all property of the Grange including the bank accounts, corporation, and more.

President Westwood related how the strategic planning team, working prior to his disability, will be again implemented to continue that work. He also announced that funds will be set aside to help our Granges repair and upgrade their halls. Grants are planned to also be available.

Looking beyond our Granges, President Westwood talked about the effects of climate change on our world. This is evident by the massive western fires, unusual storms across the heartland, destroying crops, all the result of carbon dioxide released from burning fossil fuels.

Westwood laid out a plan whereby Granges can take a lead in addressing the problems facing our world. He related that his Community Grange has a seed bank program, with over 1,000 seeds free of charge. They also have a food bank for people in need. Granges, Westwood said, should adopt similar programs and teach our members how to be more self-reliant in growing their own food.

In closing, he said “As a Grange, we can and must find ways to serve your community – because that Is what the Grange does.” Download State President Westwood Address



OCTOBER 16, 2020


PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE: National Grange Hosting Webinar

Betsy E. Huber, National Grange President

Next week the National Grange is hosting a webinar titled “Innovation from Farm to Table,” a discussion about agricultural innovation and its role in domestic food security, supply and production. Panelists from Tyson Foods, the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, the Farm Credit Council, and Feed the Children will discuss this broad topic from their various viewpoints.

Food security includes everyone having enough to eat of course, but it also involves many other issues. Farming must be economically rewarding, because farmers must earn enough to stay in business to produce our food. Government overregulation of normal agricultural practices hinders production and takes time away from productive labor to file paperwork.

Advancements in scientific research are especially important to improve efficiency, conservation of natural resources, and improvements in crop varieties to improve nutrition and health. These advancements must rely on sound science, not popular opinion. Food security includes reducing food waste and improving the food distribution system to avoid bottlenecks like we experienced last spring. It also involves preparing for climate change, water and soil conservation, and animal welfare. I’m sure there are many more facets of the topic that will be uncovered in the discussions.

Food security was identified by National Grange delegates several years ago as a top priority and it will continue to be a focus in the coming year. This webinar is designed for Capitol Hill staff and leaders of ag-related organizations in Washington DC, but it will be recorded and posted on the National Grange website where you can view it anytime. I encourage you to do so, and share it or discuss the topic at your next Grange meeting.

Member Action Needed

By: Christine Hamp National Grange Lecturer

I need your help. Please take a look at the four opportunities highlighted below – all four are teetering on the edge of epic failure in 2020. In a year where I believe we had a greater responsibility to publicize our community events; more than enough time to sew a few quilt blocks; plenty of chances to practice our photo-taking skills (I saw hundreds of photos posted on Facebook); and every opportunity as State Granges to host a virtual talent show from which to select a Best of Show representative for our annual Evening of Excellence (we even provided weeks and weeks of examples with our Date Night In shows) – I am at a total loss as to why our members and our Granges are not participating. I refuse to allow the pandemic to be a reason or excuse. I refuse to allow the need for technology to be a reason or excuse.

You have two weeks. Two weeks to submit your Grange’s publicity items created since last November. It literally takes less than three minutes to click the link, complete the questions and attach the file. Two weeks to find a scrap of teal/turquoise fabric and cut and then sew together a quilt block or two or three. Two weeks to go through your phone or computer files and find your favorite photos taken since last November. Again, it takes less than a couple of minutes to click the link, answer the questions and upload the photo. Go get it done!

One of the things I most love about Grange is the grit and determination shown by our predecessors in making monster improvements to our way of life, which ultimately bettered ourselves and our communities. Was it easy? No! The absolute steadfast belief in the mindset that we are stronger together is a powerful lesson to learn, to remember and to strive to emulate every day. To be stronger together we must participate, we must share and we must celebrate each other’s accomplishments.

I believe that each of these four opportunities below do allow for participation, for sharing with each other and for celebrating each other’s accomplishments. However, if these contests and associated programs are of no interest to you then please let me know so I can make changes for 2021. I look forward to your comments and suggestions.

2020 National Grange Publicity Item Contest

Entries for the 2020 National Grange Publicity Item Contest are due October 31st. Remember, the primary goal of this contest is to share ideas – ideas of the types and kinds of events that you are doing as well as the ways that you are publicizing your events. Please share EVERY flyer, poster, sandwich board, button, t-shirt, Facebook event notice, newsletter, placemat and display that you create to advertise your Grange – there is no limit on the number of items that can be entered by a Grange. The more entries received the more ideas to share!

2020 National Grange Quilt Block Contest

Please continue to send me your quilt blocks. The more the better! Remember, the National Grange Quilt Block Contest is open to members and non-members alike. Quilt blocks are due to me by October 31st.

2020 National Grange Virtual Photo Contest

Entries for the 2020 National Grange Virtual Photo Contest are due October 31st. This is a new contest open to members and non-members alike and replaces the Photography Showcase which was limited to one Best of Show entry per State Grange. All photos entered will become the property of the National Grange and may be used in National Grange publications and virtual media.

2020 Evening of Excellence

State Grange Lecturers, please make sure to submit your Best of Show talent entry for our 2020 National Grange Evening of Excellence to be held virtually on Saturday, November 21, 2020. Each State Lecturer is responsible for certifying their state’s Best of Show winner and for submitting the registration paperwork by October 31, 2020. We need at least eight states to submit a Best of Show entry in order for the Evening of Excellence to occur.

Please contact me by Email at lecturer@nationalgrange.org or by phone at 509.953.3533 (voice or text) if you have questions or comments.


New Member Benefits Program

By: Kennedy Gwin

A new cash back program is being incorporated into Grange member benefits and it is big news! In partnership with the National Grange the program Cash Back Connections is up and ready for members to redeem their benefits. This program gives Grange members special access to coupons, cashback opportunities, and other financial benefits These coupons include free shipping to $10 off medications at certain pharmacies.

Cashback benefits range from 1-15% with a variety of stores including Walmart, Overstock, Tractor Supply Company, and many more. As you purchase items though the Cashback program the money will compound into your specially created account, and when your cashback amount reaches $15.00 you can either spend it at your favorite retailer or have a check mailed to you. Loretta Washington, Director of Sales and Benefits says, “this program is everything you need for finances and benefits. A one stop shop to money saving benefits for all members”.

Utilizing these benefits provided to us is a perk of the Grange and should not go unnoticed. Enroll, and save money today! Check out the ad below to set up an account on Cash Back Connections and support the National Grange today. (Click image for more information)

It is More Important than Ever to get the Flu Shot

Courtesy of Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services

Now more than ever, everyone needs to do their part to prevent the spread of illnesses like the flu. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, fewer people are getting vaccines which puts their communities at greater risk for other preventable diseases. When people get the flu shot, it helps protect them and keep them from spreading the flu to others.

Medicare and most health plans cover the cost of the flu shot, which is available at most health care provider offices, local pharmacies, senior centers, health centers, and other places in the community.

This year, we're developing many new flu vaccination resources for people with Medicare, partners, providers, and others who can share our message. Please use our resources to encourage your patients and partners to get their flu shot so they and their communities can stay healthy.

Racial and ethnic minority groups are disproportionately affected when it comes to receiving recommended vaccines. Many factors can contribute to lower vaccination rates, including concerns about vaccine safety and limited access to care and health coverage. The CMS Office of Minority Health created a website of Federal resources to help our partners find resources for minority populations and in additional languages.

Member Benefit: RX Pharmacy Card

RX Pharmacy Card provided by CV Caremark (also for pet prescriptions) –program offers the RxSavings Plus Card, a NO FEE exclusive benefit to National Grange members that is not offered to the public. The RXSavings Card allows members to go to almost any pharmacy. Unlike other savings plans, the CVS-Caremark program applies to 99% of prescription drugs. Save on Lipitor, Viagra, Plavix, high blood pressure medications and thousands more—even pet medications! For the Rx Card Program, go to http://nationalgrange.rxsavingsplus.com.

If your pet has been prescribed a medication, you may get a discount with the RxSavingPlus Prescription Discount Card at a participating pharmacy. During your pet's examination and ask if the treatment plan they are recommending includes medications that are also used to treat human conditions If so, you can request a written prescription from your veterinarian instead of the veterinarian clinic providing the medications.







The National Grange is participating in a survey to discover people’s comfort level with accepting a COVID-19 vaccine when it becomes available. Please share your opinion by going to this link and completing the brief survey. Thank you for your input.

Take the Survey



OCTOBER 9, 2020


PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE: Convention Update

Betsy E. Huber, National Grange President

The National Grange Board met last week and made the difficult decision to cancel the in-person 154th Annual National Grange Convention. No one will be traveling to Valley Forge; all delegates will be participating in the discussions and voting from the comfort of their homes. This was a difficult decision but one that we felt must be made for the safety of our members, and because of the current limitations on gatherings in Pennsylvania. It will certainly be challenging to conduct all our business virtually in two days, but I’m sure our delegates are up to the challenge after using Zoom for many meetings and even State Sessions this year. They should all be experts by now.

The Grange public will have access to portions of the convention on YouTube, such as my President’s address, the memorial service and installation of Executive Committee members. Watch for the announcement closer to convention on how to access the link.

On Saturday evening, November 21 Lecturer Chris Hamp will present the Evening of Excellence talent performances from various states. Similar to the “Date Night In” shows earlier in the pandemic, performers will present their acts from their remote locations for our viewing pleasure on Facebook Live.

Other programs will also be scheduled to announce Youth and Junior contest winners, Membership, Grange Legacy Families, and Grange in Action awards. Watch for announcements of these dates and times in the coming weeks.

2020—Focus on the Future is the theme for this year’s convention, and we are certainly moving quickly into the future with an all virtual session. As Grangers we will persevere and continue to Cultivate our Connections through any adversity. I’m sure we will be eager to meet together in Wichita in 2021; it will be a great party!

Directors Award Pin

By Pete Pompper National Grange Community Service Director


I have been reading all of the great ways individual Grangers and Granges are serving their communities throughout the nation. You should be proud of all you are accomplishing to make them better places to live. We have discussed some of these projects in the past but I hear of new ones every day. Grangers have such spirit, ingenuity, perseverance, charity and the adjectives could go on and on.

We have many ways of recognizing and honoring Granges that give back through community service to individuals or groups but none to honor individual members. My trusted advisory team and I discussed this fact and realized something needed to be done to fix this. We then came up with the idea of a specially designed pin and presented the idea to our National Master and Executive Committee for their comments and advice. With their approval the above special pin was designed and created for those deserving Grangers.

This pin will not be available in the Grange store because it is a special award presented by the Director to Grangers who go above and beyond to help in their communities. I can think of community service projects that were done in the past or are being done presently that will be/are deserving of this Directors Award. Some were started on the local level and ended up being a statewide project. There are Grangers who “stepped up” during this year and have blown us away with their generosity and Grange Spirit to help others. I have started to send these award pins for presentation to individual members which is a challenge this year.

I need to say that the criteria for this award is really high and a member has to have done something extraordinary to receive it. This is why it is important that Grangers need to brag about what they have done and let me know. Granges need to report what members are doing to your State Directors or send the article to your State Grange publications. If a Grange has a Facebook page or website put it on there so other Grangers can see what is happening. At this point we are not asking for nominations for the award, as I have a process that is working to find these Grangers.

I look forward to seeing what you are doing and having these Director Award pins presented to those deserving Grangers. I would be remiss if I did not thank Loretta and Amanda for their help in the design of the pin. Watch for recipients to be recognized on Facebook or in your State Grange newsletters.

Grange Foundation Auction

By: Kennedy Gwin

The 2020 Grange Foundation auction has wrapped up and people across the county have received amazing donated prizes. Our youth Carpenter Quilt was one of our most bid on prizes with its beautiful green and yellow colors. This quilt sold for $260 and the proceeds went directly to the youth department to support their programming. One of the auction winners, Katie Squire commented that she “was thrilled to be able to support the work of the Grange Foundation and have the highest bid on a handmade pine needle basket.” She went on to say “I plan to use the basket to store some Junior Grange memorabilia since it has bright red feathers worked into the design.” Thank you Katie and all who participated for the support, we hope you enjoy your items!

With convention cancelled and many other fundraisers postponed the Grange Foundation is depending now more than ever on your contributions. While we did not reach our goal, we hope more donations will come in and for another opportunity to host another fundraiser. If you are still interested in supporting the National Grange we are still selling our “In this Together” COVID-19 t-shirts of varying sizes and colors including baby onesies. Check them out on our website and support the Grange Foundation today.

Junior Grange Passport Project

By: Kennedy Gwin

The state passports are finished and ready to be completed by Juniors! We currently have passports for all 50 states that will educate as well as encourage juniors to reach beyond their home state. These passports have a series of activities that ask them to do research about that state with a series of trivia questions as well as learning their favorite thing about the state. The passport will also ask kids to write a postcard or draw a picture for the state governor. This idea came in hopes that the state governor might reply and could potentially send items to the Junior as a gift. Another activity the passport has is to learn about that state’s agriculture and then to write or make a recipe with that commodity.

This is in hopes to encourage Juniors to understand the expansive agriculture commodities the U.S. has and how they impact each state. National Junior Grange director Samantha Wilkins said “I am very excited to have the state passports finished and look forward to future passports being made about bullying, U.S. history, safety issues, and other topics that Junior Grangers want to learn about”. The passport program is always looking for material, so if you have ideas send them in. Most of our passports are 9 steps long and should include a minimum of three activities and have themes of education and learning. Feel free to check out our state passports as a guide. All you need to do is send the information and we will format it and get it published. We are excited to hear from you and to hear your amazing ideas!

Webinar Opportunity

By: Kennedy Gwin

With Granges closed and people feeling cut off from their local representatives, advocacy seems nearly impossible. Granges not being open for political discussions or resolution writing has left many people out of the political loop and even created feelings of apathy. Fear not! The National Grange would love to invite you to join us on C-Fares High Speed in the Heartland: The Challenges and Opportunities of Rural Broadband. This webinar will give you the chance to learn more about rural broadband and what current policies and actions are being taken to increase broadband across the country. When on this webinar you may be able to submit questions as well as listen to professionals from a variety of backgrounds discuss the most pressing issue in rural America. This opportunity can allow you to engage in National Grange advocacy and see the National Grange in Action. Join us October 16th, 12PM EDT. Click on the link below to register today.

New Staff Member


Please welcome our newest member to our staff, Program Assistant Kelly Klingman. Originally from Florida, Kelly brings a wide variety of experience in finance, Human Resources, and administrative management to the National Grange. Kelly has spent her career working with both large corporations and within smaller family owned businesses. Kelly is currently residing in Calvert County MD with her three children, and veteran co-parent.

Kelly enjoys spending time with her children and her golden retriever. Kelly “deeply values family and community” and admires the Grange’s long history of community service. She is immensely proud to have been selected to join and learn from the National Grange and looks forward to supporting the National Grange’s mission.

We are excited to have Kelly on staff and look forward to getting to know and spend time with her. Welcome to the Grange Kelly!



The National Grange HQ | 1616 H St. NW, Washington, DC 20006 | (202) 628-3507



October 5, 2020

New Grange Officers Elected!

At the Annual Session of the California State Grange, the following members were newly elected and installed as a State Officer.

• Vice President - Joe Stefenoni, Sonoma County

• Gatekeeper - Chad Smith, Trinity County

• Ceres - Ellie Bruce, Mendocino County

• Pomona - Annie Waters, Mendocino County

• Executive Committee - Steven Hood, Fresno County

Kent Westwood of Mendocino County was relected as State President

Watch for additional news and information about these members in the near future.



SEPTEMBER 2020 WRAP-UP

Washington Overview

First Presidential Debate

On September 29th, President Donald Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden clashed in the first of the 2020 Presidential Election debates moderated by Chris Wallace of Fox News and hosted by Case Western Reserve University and the Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio. The debate was one of the most contentious ever, with the candidates clashing on the coronavirus, the courts, and the economy. Unfortunately, viewers who were hoping to gain insight into either candidate's rural policy portfolio were disappointed as no questions were asked which directly addressed key issues such as agriculture, rural infrastructure, or rural healthcare, and neither candidate even said the word 'rural'. The only vague references to rural interests came in attacks from Trump on Biden's climate policy, which he argued would "take out the cows," and attacks from Biden on Trump's trade policy.

Judge Amy Coney Barrett Nominated to Supreme Court

On Saturday September 26th, a week after Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg passed away, President Trump formally nominated 7th Circuit Court of Appeals Judge Amy Coney Barrett to fill the vacant seat on the Supreme Court. Despite Democratic Senators arguing that considering a Supreme Court Justice with only a month until remaining before election day is improper, Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Lindsey Graham (R-SC) has announced that hearings on Barrett's appointment will take place on October 12-15, and a final vote on her nomination could be expected on October 22nd.

Government Funding Extended into December

In the final days of September, Democratic and Republican lawmakers on Capitol Hill averted a government shutdown by passing a continuing resolution extending government funding until December 11th. The deal on a continuing resolution was first struck earlier this month between Democratic Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi and Secretary of the Treasury Steven Mnuchin but faced hurdles once it reached Congress. Specifically, members clashed over funding for the Commodity Credit Corporation and nutrition programs, but both parties were ultimately able to strike a deal and push major funding fights until after the election in November.

Coronavirus Relief Negotiations

The roller coaster of negotiations over a second coronavirus relief package took more unexpected turns in late September. Recently, Democratic House leadership has renewed calls for negotiations with the White House and Senate Republicans over another relief package and released a new trimmed down $2.2 trillion proposal. Republican leadership has also shown a new willingness to negotiate, and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows went to Capitol Hill early in the final week of September with a $1.5 trillion counteroffer. The outcome of these high-level relief negotiations remains unclear, but with the House expected to enter recess on October 2nd little time remains for a deal to be struck. Meanwhile, a group of rank-and-file Republican House members are attempting to force a vote on a bipartisan small business relief bill with the support of some moderate Democrats; however they have not yet gained enough support. As of yet, neither the leadership-level or rank-and-file relief efforts have been able to make substantial progress and with only a few days remaining before recess it seems unlikely that a deal will be struck.

Agriculture and Food

Farmers and Ranchers Are Most Popular

Consumers give farmers, ranchers and agriculture top scores in a recent Gallup industry poll. This is the highest rating for those involved in agriculture since Gallup since began the poll 20 years ago. Gallup says the public is expressing greater appreciation for the work of three industries that are crucial to people's well-being during the coronavirus pandemic. Coming in at number 2 is the grocery industry and number 3 is the health care industry.

New Round of Market Relief for Agriculture

The original round of market relief (CFAP -1) covered farm market disruptions until April 15. Serious farm level market loses continued well beyond that. On September 18, Secretary of Agriculture Perdue announced an additional round of Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP-2) payments available to farmers, ranchers and growers who continued to face market losses from April through August 31. Program signup began September 21 and continues through December 11. Several additional commodities will now be eligible for CFAP-2 payments including wine grapes, hemp, goats, three classes of wheat and several more commodities. National Grange president Betsy Huber issued a statement following the announcement, "The National Grange applauds the Administration and Secretary of Agriculture Perdue for providing an additional $14 billion in relief funds for agricultural producers who have continued to face market disruptions amid COVID-19. This includes several commodities under the latest Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP-2) that were not previously eligible and will make America's food chain even more resilient for the future."

USDA Extends Feeding Programs

In September, USDA announced it would extend several major feeding programs due to the extended coronavirus pandemic. The Farmers to Families Food Box program, which supports both farmers and families in need, has distributed more than 100 million food boxes to date. The program will now receive an additional $1 billion to continue. Flexibilities and waivers are extended for programs such as SNAP and WIC to include remote participant approval, remote issuance of benefits and more diverse food selection and packaging requirements. Most popular was the decision to extend the summer feeding program to students through the school year because of remote learning requirements. National Grange president Betsy Huber's op ed in Education Dive September 10said the policy shift should be seen as one of the most sweeping and meaningful enactments since the start of the pandemic.

Support for Local Meat Processing

A trend toward more local processing that started long before the pandemic has picked up widespread support in the countryside, on Capitol Hill and among consumers as a result of the pandemic. As meat cases went bare and prices to farmers and ranchers plummeted, local consumer demand skyrocketed. Several pieces of legislation have been introduced to help local small plants expand with grants to existing processors to upgrade their facilities, using cost-share programs to help smaller processors pay for federal inspectors, and by allowing state inspected facilities to sell their products across state lines. The National Grange will support the reintroduction and passage of these bills in the upcoming 2021-2022 legislative session.

Protect Farm Employees and Rural Communities from Coronavirus

The National Grange joined over 160 farm, food and agricultural organizations on a letter to Vice President Pence and the White House Coronavirus Task Force calling for the federal government to take additional steps to help farmers, ranchers and growers protect employees from the novel coronavirus. Actions the groups recommended included:


• Adapt farmworker housing requirements to facilitate greater social distancing and allow for the use of alternative housing structures
• Ensure testing resources are accessible in a timely fashion
• Prioritize PPE and future vaccine distribution for the food and fiber supply chain
• Help farmers offset the costs of COVID-19 mitigation expenses, while maintaining existing farm programs, by increasing Commodity Credit Corporation funds

Health Care

Chronic Pain Awareness

Washington's Morning Consult newsletter on September 29 highlighted Pain Awareness Month with an op ed by National Grange president Betsy Huber. Rural citizens experience chronic pain more often than their urban neighbors. Years of hard work, accidents, injuries, lack of insurance, cost of treatment, distance from medical services, and closure of rural medical facilities all contribute to a higher incidence of rural chronic pain. A recent survey by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that 24 percent of rural adults suffer from chronic pain. Rural America has also been tragically affected by the opioid crisis in its battle against pain. We must find effective ways to treat pain with new therapies and non-addictive drugs.

Patient Groups Urge Pain Management

Organizations representing patients, families and clinicians, including the National Grange, are calling for the development and availability of new treatments for both acute and chronic pain. The 33 groups are challenging Food and Drug Commissioner Hahn and National Institutes of Health Director Collins to move forward to find new treatments and medicines for the different kinds of pain that are non-addictive and will prevent acute pain from becoming chronic pain.

President Targets "Surprise" Medical Bills

The President issued an executive order in late September calling for Congress to pass legislation by January 1 to prevent "surprise" medical bills. If Congress doesn't act by then, the President promises to take executive action by instructing HHS Secretary Azar to pursue other actions including regulations. Patients are surprised when an astronomical bill arrives from a member of their medical team who is out of their insurance company's network (anesthesiologist for example) who charges higher out-of-network fees.

Imported Drug Rule is Final

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released its Final Rule and Guidance 0n Prescription Drug Importation in late September. HHS Secretary Azar followed with a letter to Hill leadership clarifying that importation can be done safely and will save the U.S. money. These actions allow states and pharmacies to set up new programs to import prescription drugs from Canada and other "most favored nations." National Grange remains concerned that prescription drug prices to patients may not actually go down, transshipment of fake drugs may still be possible, and the medical community may lose confidence that the drugs they prescribe are safe and effective. The Grange has suggested a better solution might be to cap Medicare out-of-pocket costs to patients and to streamline the drug approval process so that more products have increased competition to drive down prices.

Telecommunications

Voting for Broadband

It's certainly no secret to Grangers that 18-20 million Americans are without access to reliable, affordable highspeed broadband internet and that the majority of those are in rural areas. What's different now is the coronavirus is shining a spotlight on the digital divide, both rural and urban. The urgency for remote learning and telehealth connectivity hasn't been lost on our fellow citizens. A recent voter poll by Morning Consult found that over 90% said that the current lack of universal broadband access is a problem and a big majority want Congress to fix the problem immediately. Over half of those polled said they would be willing to dig into their own pockets to solve the problem.

K-12 Bridge to Broadband Initiative Gains Momentum

K-12 Bridge to Broadband is a national effort to connect more students for remote and hybrid learning through a partnership with the non-profit group EducationSuperHighway. The program enables school districts to identify students without broadband and purchase service for low income families. USTelecom-The Broadband Association says its companies, in partnership with school districts and states, will work to identify student households that are unconnected but serviceable and will offer arrangements to connect students this school year. NTCA-The Rural Broadband Association is also collaborating with the consortium and encouraging its member "hometown providers" to talk with local schools about the best local approach.

Perspectives

The line separating good and evil passes not through states, nor between classes, nor even between political parties either - but right through the human heart. ~ Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn

There is only one thing which is generally safe from plagiarism - self denial. ~ G.K. Chesterton

You plant, then you cultivate, and finally you harvest. Plant, cultivate, harvest. In today's world, everyone wants to go directly from plant to harvest. ~ Jeff Olson

Striving for success without hard work is like trying to harvest where you haven't planted. ~ David Bly

Those who expect to reap the blessings of freedom, must, like men, undergo the fatigues of supporting it. ~ Thomas Paine

Sow an act and you reap a habit. Sow a habit and you reap a character. Sow a character and you reap a destiny. ~ James Allen

Feedback and questions are welcome. Call Burton Eller, at (202) 628-3507 ext. 114 or email beller@nationalgrange.org



September 2020

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U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue announced today that low-income California residents dealing with the ongoing wildfires could be eligible for a helping hand from U.S. Department of Agriculture’s D-SNAP

USDA Announces Approval of D-SNAP for California Disaster Areas

WASHINGTON, Sept. 29, 2020 – U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue announced today that low-income California residents dealing with the ongoing wildfires could be eligible for a helping hand from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (D-SNAP).

Secretary Perdue said that households who may not normally be eligible under regular Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) rules may qualify for D-SNAP – if they meet the disaster income limits and have qualifying disaster-related expenses.

“USDA is committed to ensuring Californians affected by these wildfires have enough to eat and will be here to help throughout their entire recovery. D-SNAP will be a vital part of our ongoing, on-the-ground food assistance,” Secretary Perdue said.

To be eligible for D-SNAP, a household must either live or work in an identified disaster area, have been affected by the disaster, and meet certain D-SNAP eligibility criteria. Eligible households will receive one month of benefits – equal to the maximum amount for a SNAP household of their size – to meet their temporary food needs as they settle back home following the disaster. California will share information about D-SNAP application dates and locations through local media.

The timing of D-SNAP varies with the unique circumstances of each disaster, Secretary Perdue said, but always begins after commercial channels of food distribution have been restored and families are able to purchase and prepare food at home. Before operating a D-SNAP, a state must ensure that the proper public information, staffing and resources are in place.

Although current SNAP (known as CalFresh in the state of California) households are not eligible for D-SNAP, under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act of 2020, USDA previously approved emergency allotments for California in response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, ongoing SNAP households have already received the maximum allotment for their household size for the month of September. California will continue to issue replacement benefits to current SNAP households who lost food as a result of the wildfires.

The D-SNAP announcement today is the latest in a battery of USDA actions taken to help California residents cope with the wildfires. These include:


• Allowing participants to buy hot foods with their SNAP benefits at authorized SNAP retailers in certain counties.
• Automatic mass replacement of a portion of SNAP benefits for residents of specific counties who may have lost food due to the wildfires and associated power outages.
• Extending the deadline for school meal program operators in certain counties to submit reimbursement claims for meals served;
• Providing households in certain counties with more time to request replacement SNAP benefits for food lost; and
• Retroactively distributing Commodity Supplemental Food Program food packages that The Redwood Empire Food

Bank was unable to deliver in August due to wildfire-related road closures and evacuations.

Individuals seeking more information about this and other available aid should dial 2-1-1. For more information about California’s SNAP program, CalFresh, visit www.cdss.ca.gov/food-nutrition/calfresh.

Further, USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) continues to provide significant support to California residents as part of its ongoing response to COVID-19. For more information on flexibilities provided to California, visit the FNS California COVID-19 Response webpage.

USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service administers 15 nutrition assistance programs that leverage American’s agricultural abundance to ensure children and low-income individuals and families have nutritious food to eat. FNS also co-develops the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, which provide science-based nutrition recommendations and serve as the cornerstone of federal nutrition policy. Follow us on Twitter at @USDANutrition.

Department of Agriculture | 1400 Independence Ave., S.W., Washington, DC 20250



NORTH FORK GRANGE (TRINITY COUNTY)



The North Fork Grange members held their Caltrans semiannual highway 299 clean up as originally schedule on Sept 26th. The section drains into the Trinity River and needed immediate attention. The group met at the Junction City Park and organized the work from Eagle Rook Quarry to the Canyon Creek bridge. They also did a full clean up and other work at the Junction City Park. There is a great deal of firewood available at the park cut to length on the ground for the taking. Come and get it. Free.



The Grange continues with their "hub" meeting at the Grange Hall on Dutch Creek Rd. for the California State Grange Convention on Oct 3rd and 4th. This meeting will be zoomed to the Grange from the Sacramento main State Grange Office for North State Grange members and members can zoom in at their homes to watch. Grange events require masks and social distancing. (except for the photo).




SEPTEMBER 25, 2020

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE: Food Security is a major Grange priority

Betsy E. Huber, National Grange President

One of the top issues for the National Grange is food security. Sometime in the next few weeks we will be hosting a panel discussion on this topic—watch for the announcement. Wikipedia says food security "exists when all people, at all times, have physical and economic access to sufficient, safe and nutritious food to meet their dietary needs and food preferences for an active and healthy life.”

Food insecurity is the same thing as hunger, right? Not necessarily. First, food security is socio-economic (financial and cultural), while hunger is physiological (physical). Studies on food security attempt to measure reliable access to food, with questions that include anxiety over shopping, budgeting for healthy meals, and running out of food. Hunger, on the other hand, is a physical sensation. We could say that hunger is one potential consequence of food insecurity, but food insecurity does not always result in hunger. (Food Forward website)

It's obvious to all of us that food insecurity has increased as a result of the current pandemic. With so many people unemployed, even middle-class families find themselves with less or no income to buy the necessities of life such as food. Food banks have doubled and tripled their customer base in the last six months, and the USDA has distributed over 75 million food boxes so far. Free school lunches are being handed out or delivered to every school child via school buses or even the Postal Service.

Temple University professor Sara Goldrick-Rab conducted a recent study that showed 45% of college students experience hunger during their college years. In the U.S. with all our bounty of agriculture, this statistic is unbelievable and unacceptable. Often the cost of tuition is so high that students have little money left over to feed themselves.

Last year our National Grange Youth Department created the “Home Away from Home” program where Granges “adopt” students in their communities who are Grange members attending college away from their homes. This program becomes even more important in light of the above hunger statistic. As your Granges begin to meet and share meals again, remember to invite local Grange students to come. Or if you are still not comfortable meeting, make up a “care package” and deliver or send it to that student. You will not only make a friend for life; you may also stave off hunger for that person.

Distinguished Grange Ceremony to be held September 30 live online

By Kennedy Gwin

On Wednesday, September 30 at 8 p.m. Eastern, 28 Subordinate Granges and the four State Granges will be presented their Distinguished Grange awards in a virtual ceremony.

This event will be on Facebook Live and on the National Grange YouTube channel, so tune in to celebrate the accomplishments of Granges from around the country!

To these Granges, National Grange President Betsy Huber said: “This has been a very tough year to adjust to due to the pandemic, and despite these challenges you found a way to meet, positively impact your communities, and accomplish so much.”

ORDER THE LATEST EDITION OF THE GRANGE SUBORDINATE MANUAL TODAY

Grange Subordinate Manual (soft covered) includes the Alternative Manual, Welcoming Ceremony, and Installation Ceremony. 2013 Edition with all updates made by delegate action through 2019 included. $10 plus shipping.

CLICK HERE TO ORDER!

The Vision of Improvement

By Samantha Wilkins, National Jr. Grange Director

The Grange has always strived to give our members young and old the opportunity for development and growth. This is especially true of our youngest form of membership, the Junior Grangers (ages 5-14). The Junior Grange program helps to develop an appreciation for the Grange organization and promotes the future of the Grange through our Junior membership. Junior Grange is the gateway to individual development and community involvement. Through this aspect we work to develop a spirit of respect and cooperation and concern for others. The responsibilities that we are given through the formal meeting process of the Junior Grange build character and self-confidence in our Juniors. They are then able to advance their responsibilities and service to the organization as a whole.

The Motto of the Junior Grange is Improvement. The definition of improvement is ‘an increase in value or in excellence of quality or condition.’

There are two divisions of the Junior Grange- The Junior 1+ program and having a chartered Junior Grange.

JUNIOR 1+ Program

The Junior 1+ program was adopted by the National Grange delegate body in 2013. The 1+ program allows your Grange to build a Junior Grange program one member at a time. The individuals become the core group to build a chartered Junior Grange. The 1+ is the first step in making the improvements necessary to charter your Junior Grange. Many children have not had the opportunity to participate in the Junior Grange program because of the number of children that is required to charter a Junior Grange and the 1+ allows those first steps to happen. Although the children are not allowed to have a vote in the Grange as a 1+ member or hold any offices, they are permitted to participate in other Junior programming such as the Passport program, State, Regional, and National Contests or activities as equal status to those members of the chartered Junior Grange.

Chartered Junior Grange Programs

A Chartered Junior Grange has many different variables that provide other opportunities for Junior Grangers in comparison to the 1+ membership. Once you have gained at least 13 members (7 at the discretion of the State President) the Chartered Junior Grange can then move forward with full business meetings, election of officers, voting on resolutions or activities, the Junior Pledge, and the Junior Degree. Chartered Junior Granges can then conduct meetings with a full hall set-up, presentations, reports, and run through the full program agendas. Members can then go through the full election process and business process just as a Subordinate Grange does. As a reminder- these opportunities are not available for 1+ membership. Junior Grangers also can participate just like the 1+ members in all the State, Regional, and National contests or activities.

One of the things I want to bring to the forefront is the importance of the Junior Grange Motto: Improvement. We always work and strive to do better, to be better, and to provide better opportunities for our communities (large or small). The opportunities gained when working from a 1+ to a Chartered Junior Grange are incredible. Juniors have the chance to gain indispensable leadership skills, profound parliamentary procedure experience, the knowhow to develop activities and programs, and the fortitude to serve the community in an impeccable way. They do not just become the eyes sitting at the back of the Grange hall watching the adults make a difference. They become the difference makers themselves.

Juniors are also afforded the opportunity to take part in the Junior Degree- and the lessons taught in this degree set the tone for their entire future in the organization and lay the foundation for the person they are working to become. By becoming a full-fledged Junior Grange member (through a chartered Junior Grange) you also get to take part in reciting the Junior Grange Pledge in which we promise to be good citizens and avoid bad company and harmful habits.

The Junior 1+ program is the stepping stone to help you reach your goal of expanding the future of the Grange and the ultimate goal at the end of the day is to create a full functioning Junior Grange that will afford them the opportunity to be future leaders not only of the Grange but of their schools, communities, and country.

Find ways to Inform New, Infrequent Voters about All Candidates

By Amanda Brozana-Rios, National Grange Communications Director

While it seems as if the media and general public focuses only on elections every four years, Grangers know that the responsibilities of citizenship are present with us everyday in order to keep our democracy strong.

As we prepare for the upcoming presidential election that is sure to bring new and infrequent voters to the polls or to cast their ballots by mail, many Granges are doing their part to assure their neighbors are informed about other candidates they will see on the slate this fall.

A great example comes from Montana, where Rocky Mountain Grange is the site of a candidate forum with Public Service Commission and State House candidates. They are not only holding the in-person event to a limited audience, but also streaming it for others to see.

Making sure the widest audience possible can engage in local politics - specifically, learning who the candidates are and seeing them discuss issues - is just as, if not more important to a healthy democracy.

By streaming the forum into the homes of those who may otherwise feel intimidated to attend a public forum, we prove that every elected position is important and a knowledgable electorate is essential.

If your Grange can’t hold a forum, consider having a discussion about what certain elected officials do - what is their jurisdiction, their authority and the essential functions of the position. You can learn a lot about what skills those seeking the position may need just by knowing what they will be empowered and expected to perform in the job.

And of course, encourage everyone to register, to learn about what they will see, to understand the in-person or vote-by-mail requirements for valid ballots, and to vote on time. Democracy is ours, but only because we actively participate in it.

Fires Burning Since Mid-August Devastate Western States

By Joe Stefenoni, National Grange Membership Director

Historically large wildfires have been raging across the western US since August. Washington, Oregon and California have experienced a combined 8,558 wildfires, burning an estimated total area of more than 5 million acres since the beginning of 2020. In California alone, more than 3.1 million acres have burned, a record high for any year.

News has been received from the California State Grange about the impact on Grangers due to the many fires burning in their State.

The most devastating is the loss of life to a long-time member, Jacob "Jake" Albright, age 74, who was an important member of a small mountain community and pillar of Mountain Springs Grange. His caring and can-do attitude led many projects benefitting all of the residents in the area.

There are other members who have lost their homes, farms and livelihood. Information is just now being reported and many areas have not yet allowed reentry. Loss includes homes, crops, livestock bars, vineyards, processing facilities and equipment.

Two Grange Halls have also fallen to these fires. Feather Falls Mountain Springs Grange # 754 did not survive the Bear Fire. Grangers have said that once they can repopulate the area and get an understanding of the situation, they will be updating their Facebook page with information for those who may be in need.

Berry Creek Grange #694 also lost their Grange Hall to the Bear Fire. The community of Berry Creek has been severely devastated. The evacuation orders are not yet lifted, and we have no additional information at this time.

In Oregon the wild fires have not burned any Grange Halls but have taken the homes of many Grangers around Oregon. In the midst of the wild fire crisis Granges like the Warren Grange in Oregon have opened their doors to feed firefighters, displaced people, as well as board local farmers animals to keep them safe from the fires. The efforts of Granges like Warren Grange across Oregon have been organizing in recovery efforts and continue to embody community amid disaster.

In Washington state they were very close to losing a Grange Hall but were lucky to have avoided that disaster. Washington was not hit as severely as Oregon and California with wild fires, but people still lost land and crops to fire. The Washington State Grange has heard very little about if homes were burned due to the COVID restrictions currently in place. Due to these restrictions nothing has been organized on the state level, but local Granges are participating in recovery efforts across the state.

If you wish to help donations of any kind are appreciated by fire victims. Right now, internet, cell service, and even the mail services are severely interrupted. In most cases, insurance will not pay out for several months or more. Donations for assistance may be made through the California State Grange Foundation. Or checks can be made payable to The California State Grange Foundation, 3830 U Street, Sacramento, CA 95817. Add "2020 Fire Victims" in the memo line. If you wish to help the Oregon State Grange Foundation checks can be sent to 643 Union St NE, Salem, OR 97301 with the memo “Fraternal Concern”.

MAKE A DONATION TO HELP WILDFIRE VICTIMS

CMS announces launch of 2020 flu season campaign, providing partner resources

Courtesy of CMS

Agency strongly encourages vaccination of flu amidst COVID-19 pandemic to protect nation’s seniors. Today, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services kicked off its 2020-2021 flu season campaign with new resources to encourage people with Medicare or other CMS health care programs to get their flu shot.

This year, CMS is taking additional actions to protect the health of the nation’s seniors from the flu and its associated health complications.

This is through a robust campaign aimed at people with Medicare, with a special focus on beneficiaries who experience health disparities.

CMS encourages national and community partners to use CMS materials to educate people about the importance of flu vaccination.

According to the CDC, a flu shot has many important benefits, including reducing the risk of flu illness, hospitalization, death. This is while reducing strain on America’s healthcare system, keeping hospital beds and other medical resources available for COVID-19 patients.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there's no evidence that a flu vaccination increases your risk of getting sick from a coronavirus, like the one that causes COVID-19. The CDC recommends getting vaccinated in September or October, but a flu shot anytime during the flu season can help protect you.

When going to get a flu shot, CMS recommends following CDC recommendations for running essential errands. CMS encourages people to ask their family doctors, pharmacists, or health departments if they are following CDC's vaccination guidance.

Any vaccination location following CDC's guidance should be a safe place to receive a flu vaccine. Medicare Part B covers one flu shot per flu season. Beneficiaries pay nothing for a flu shot if their doctor or other qualified healthcare provider accepts Medicare payment for giving the shot.

MEMBER BENEFITS: Nationwide Pet Insurance

As a member of the National Grange, you are eligible for a discount on your policy for pet insurance that helps cover the cost of regular and emergency health services for your furry friend. If you have multiple pets, you are in entitled to additional discounts. For more information please call 1-877-738-7874 and mention your Grange membership to get your discount.

VISIT THE WEBSITE

The National Grange HQ | 1616 H St. NW, Washington, DC 20006 | (202) 628-3507



PATRONS CHAIN NEWSLETTER SEPTEMBER 18, 2020



Statement issued by 5 nations underscoring importance of ag trade

USDA Press Release

WASHINGTON —Following the virtual G-20 Agriculture and Water Ministers Meeting hosted by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on Sept. 12, top agricultural officials from five Western Hemisphere countries –Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Mexico and the United States –issued the following statement underscoring the importance of maintaining agricultural trade flows during the COVID-19 pandemic and emphasizing their commitment to remaining reliable suppliers of food and agricultural products to the world:

“We, the Agriculture Ministers of Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Mexico and the United States,express our deepest condolences for the tragic loss of life being endured around the world as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and convey our strong appreciation for all workers in the health, agricultural and other front-line sectors, who selflessly dedicate their efforts to the benefit of others.”

“As we face the effects of this crisis, reliable and resilient agricultural supply chains remain essential to guarantee the availability of safe, nutritious food around the world. Our nations have taken the measures necessary to keep agricultural supply chains operational, ensuring the continued production and distribution of safe, quality products, while safeguarding the health and welfare of agricultural sector workers. We are open for business and you can count on us for safe and high-quality food.”

“As Western Hemisphere agricultural leaders, whose countries represent 35 percent of global exports in agricultural products, we reiterate the importance of maintaining agricultural trade flows, while avoiding unjustified trade-restrictive measures, in order to keep markets open and ensure global food security, especially to those most vulnerable. We underscore the guidance published by the United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization and the World Health Organization on April 7, 2020, which states, ‘there is no evidence to date of viruses that cause respiratory illnesses being transmitted via food or food packaging,’ and we call on trading partners to allow trade to flow without undue delay or unjustified requirements.”

“We will continue to work with our partners and with relevant regional and international organizations to exchange information, enhance coordination, and strengthen our global response to the crisis.”

“Looking at the aftermath of this pandemic, we recognize that agriculture will be an important engine for economic recovery. Innovation and technological development will be vital to guarantee that food systems develop sustainably to feed the world’s growing population. How we emerge from this crisis will be our greatest legacy for a future of global food security and nutrition.

Cultivating Connections by Helping Schools

By Joe Stefenoni, Leadership/Membership Director

As schools begin their school year, some in-person, some and some mixed, Community Granges have an opportunity to cultivate connections with their local schools, educators and families. As teachers, educators, students and families adapt to these new learning and teaching environments, needs will arise that can be serviced by our Community Granges. Especially for extra-curricular and career technical programs like FFA and speech and debate, they may need spaces to practice or hold meetings. Any circumstance is an opportunity for Community Granges to develop relationships with their community, increase visibility and perhaps even get creative with how they help. Reach out to district Superintendents, school Principals and program leaders/advisors to let them know that the Grange is ready to lend a helping hand.

Growth Through Action

By Joe Stefenoni, Leadership/Membership Director

The next session of “Growth Through Action: Planning the Future for Your Community Grange”. Will be presented on Saturday, September 19that 12:30 pm eastern (9:30 am pacific) and Saturday, October 10that 1:00 pm eastern (10:00 am pacific).The material from this program has been developed based off previous internal strategic planning materials, information and recommendations from the Action Grange program and curriculums from external sources.This will be presented using Zoom in a webinar format. Participants will need to pre-register and will receive a worksheet to accompany the material being presented. To register, follow this link https://form.jotform.com/202015073739147

MEMBER BENEFITS: Hertz Car Rental Discounts



CALIFORNIA STATE GRANGE 2019 JOURNAL OF PROCEEDINGS

The California State Grange 2019 Journal of Proceedings has been published and is available online at www.CAStateGrange.org.

The Journal of Proceedings is the permanent record of the activities of the California State Grange and is available as a public document.

Many years of the Grange Journals of Proceedings have been scanned and are available on the website. Please feel free to access the documents and take a journey through the pages of history of the California State Grange.

Download 2019 California State Grange Journal of Proceedings

View List of Historical Journals of Proceeding - California State Grange

©2020 California State Grange | 3830 U Street, Sacramento, CA 95817





PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE: Digging into the School Year

By Betsy Huber, National Grange President

Now that most schools are back in session in some fashion, I read an interesting article that plants in the classroom can actually make kids smarter! Not only that, but they have many positive effects for teachers as well as students.

We know that plants use carbon dioxide from the air. Did you know that they also remove air pollutants and create a calmer, happier space for creative and focused learning?

The National Initiative for Consumer Horticulture (NICH) reports that research shows test scores increase by ten percent, children are seven percent healthier, and symptoms of ADD are reduced in classrooms that contain plants. Teachers report more positive feelings, greater satisfaction, and less misbehavior in classrooms with live plants. “When plants are around, students are just smarter and pay more attention,” said Dr. Charles Hall, Ellison Chair, Texas A&M University.

I know that surrounding myself with houseplants, and spending lots of time in the garden when I can, definitely makes me feel better, calmer, peaceful, and more pleasant.

If your students are at home learning virtually right now, try including some plants in the study area. I’m sure staring at a computer screen throughout the day, even if it’s in short periods, is not fun for kids, so anything that can improve the workspace and provide a happier, healthier atmosphere is worth a try.

Put some plants in your home office if you are now working from home and see if you yourself notice a greater feeling of well-being. Plants are an important component of creating a healthy classroom or work environment. #PlantsDoThat Inside: Where We Learn

Developing Sourcebooks Great Way to Make an Impression

By Amanda Brozana Rios, National Grange Communications Director

2020 isn’t shaping up the way anyone had planned. By now, I wanted to have a few more projects complete for the department, a few less family things to deal with and a nice long road trip or two under my belt to see some Grange friends. Instead, I’m Zooming my life away when I’m home and struggling with lagging connections or a complete disconnect a few days when I’ve been working from my dad’s house. Rural broadband, am I right?

The simple fact is - there are things just out of our control. Such is the case with many things in life, including attracting coverage by local media for your Grange - or is it?

In fact, there are a few things that you can do to increase the likelihood that your Grange gets attention now and long into the future. One of the biggest ways you can be an asset to your local newsroom is to create a quick and easy source guide and send it to you local reporters or editors.

What is a source guide? It’s a document that provides contact information and background on people who can serve as sources for stories that may be on the horizon.

As a reporter, I was constantly coming up with or handed stories that required some local expert’s input - from the strawberry harvest to voter registration to veteran’s issues to easy home renovation projects .

What I needed was a great rolodex so that my stories weren’t always filled with the same voices, and that required a lot of networking and a lot of “tell me more about yourself” discussions with anyone I talked to. “Oh, your dad owns the strawberry farm in town?” “Oh, your day-job is in construction?” I’d keep notes in my cell phone and on a spreadsheet so when a story came my way, I could search “farmer,” “veteran" or “election judge” and easily add a source.

Most everyone in your Grange has a job, a hobby or a history that could provide useful insight to a reporter for a future story, and that means you can provide an excellent resource and impression that will last.

How does providing contact information for a member who is a welder or landscape architect help your Grange? Because the easier you make the job of local reporters, the more likely they are to have time to work on other stories and appreciation for how easy your group is to work with.

First, you need look at your member list and get to know anyone you’re not already very familiar with. What a great idea for a program during quarantine - ask each member to tell a little about their job, their hobby or what they are an “expert” on at a meeting. I’m sure you’ll be surprised and learn new things about your Grange family!

Next, you need to get their permission to include them in your sourcebook with their contact details. Make sure to get their best contact number and an email they check regularly. It’s not useful to include an email address that they do not check at least once a day since reporters work on tight deadlines.

Finally, put your material into a document and send it to your media outlet. To create a great sourcebook, you can use Google Docs and share the link with your local media. This allows you to keep it up-to-date with information without requiring you to send multiple versions. You can also create it on Word or another similar program and send it by email for ease of use, but make sure to update it regularly.

When you email it to the local editor or reporters, make sure to let them know you are providing this for their professional use to ensure they’re able to include in their coverage the wide variety of knowledge and experience in your back yard.

Don’t forget to note that these are all members of your Grange and provide a bit of background on your Grange, your hall (especially if it’s a polling place or has some other public use) and invite them to attend your next virtual or in person event.

BioPharma Leaders Unite to Stand with Science

-- Nine CEOs sign historic pledge to continue to make the safety and well-being of vaccinated individuals the top priority in development of the first COVID-19 vaccines

NEW YORK, September 8, 2020 — The CEOs of AstraZeneca BioNTech, GlaxoSmithKline plc, Johnson & Johnson, Merck, known as MSD outside the United States and Canada, Moderna, Inc., Novavax, Inc, Pfizer Inc., and Sanof, today announced a historic pledge, outlining a united commitment to uphold the integrity of the scientific process as they work towards potential global regulatory filings and approvals of the first COVID-19 vaccines. All nine CEOs signed the following pledge:

We, the undersigned biopharmaceutical companies, want to make clear our on-going commitment to developing and testing potential vaccines for COVID-19 in accordance with high ethical standards and sound scientific principles.

The safety and efficacy of vaccines, including any potential vaccine for COVID-19, is reviewed and determined by expert regulatory agencies around the world, such as the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). FDA has established clear guidance for the development of COVID-19 vaccines and clear criteria for their potential authorization or approval in the US. FDA’s guidance and criteria are based on the scientific and medical principles necessary to clearly demonstrate the safety and efficacy of potential COVID-19 vaccines.

More specifically, the agency requires that scientific evidence for regulatory approval must come from large, high quality clinical trials that are randomized and observer-blinded, with an expectation of appropriately designed studies with significant numbers of participants across diverse populations.

Following guidance from expert regulatory authorities such as FDA regarding the development of COVID-19 vaccines, consistent with existing standards and practices, and in the interest of public health, we pledge to:

• Always make the safety and well-being of vaccinated individuals our top priority.
• Continue to adhere to high scientific and ethical standards regarding the conduct of clinical trials and the rigor of manufacturing processes.
• Only submit for approval or emergency use authorization after demonstrating safety and efficacy through a Phase 3 clinical study that is designed and conducted to meet requirements of expert regulatory authorities such as FDA.
• Work to ensure a sufficient supply and range of vaccine options, including those suitable for global access.

We believe this pledge will help ensure public confidence in the rigorous scientific and regulatory process by which COVID-19 vaccines are evaluated and may ultimately be approved.

Together, these nine companies have collectively developed more than 70 novel vaccines that have helped to eradicate some of the world’s most complex and deadly public health threats, underscoring their experience in clinical development and regulatory rigor, as well as their longstanding commitments to patient safety and public health.

MEMBER BENEFIT: eHealth Medicare

The National Grange is a proud partner with eHealth to help provide the right Medicare plan for you! Plan types such as Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement Insurance, or Prescription Drug Plans are available all in one convenient location. Enroll in the Medicare Annual Election Period (AEP) each Fall, or as you age into qualification.

eHealth is committed to finding National Grange members the right health insurance plan to fit your specific needs. Visit us today or call (833) 922-0978 to access free quotes or to explore options with a licensed agent!

LEARN MORE



ORDER YOURS TODAY

Adapted and Reprinted from the National Grange.



OVERVIEW: Pandemic, Politics. Presidential Conventions

Democratic Convention

From August 17-20 the Democratic Party held its national convention, and formally nominated Joe Biden and Kamala Harris for their national ticket. During the event, the party highlighted voices from all sides, including progressive Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders, and Republican turned Biden-supporter former Governor of Ohio John Kasich. The party also made a concerted effort to appeal to rural voters through rural outreach events and primetime speeches from rural elected Democrats such as Representative Cindy Axne from Iowa. Along with their convention the party released their 2020 Platform which featured support for key rural issues such as broadband deployment and support for rural healthcare.

Republican Convention

From August 24-27 the Republican Party held its national convention, and formally nominated Donald Trump and Mike Pence for their national ticket. During the event, the party focused mainly on President Trump's personal brand of Republican politics and featured many members of his family and official cabinet. The party featured an array of primetime speakers who focused on rural issues, most notably Governor Kim Reynolds and Senator Joni Ernst from Iowa who both spoke about agriculture, trade, and ethanol. The party also made a controversial decision to not release a 2020 platform and instead express support for President Trump's second term agenda, a 50-bullet point list of policies which unfortunately does not address any key rural issues.

Another COVID-19 Relief Package

As convention season winds down, and Congress is set to return to work after Labor Day all eyes are on negotiations for a second coronavirus relief package. Unfortunately, after negotiations in early August fell apart both sides have steadily grown farther apart. Throughout the August congressional recess lead Democratic negotiators Nancy Pelosi and Chuck Schumer, and lead Republican negotiators Mark Meadows and Mitch McConnell have attempted to persuade voters that it is the other side who is being obstinate and preventing a new relief package. All of this has culminated in recent public clashes between Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi and White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows, with Meadows predicting that a new deal will not come until the end of September. Further complicating negotiations is the imminent September 30 deadline to fund the government, which may become tied to coronavirus relief negotiations.

Agriculture and Food

Give Feeding Programs Flexibility

The National Grange joined the School Nutrition Association, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Feeding America and 70 national organizations to request that USDA extend critical child nutrition program waivers and flexibilities through the coming school year. This would allow the Summer Food Service Program and Seamless Summer Option to be used to feed children during the upcoming school year for meals at school, to send meals home with children to use when they are not at school , and to provide meals at community sites closer to children's homes. Secretary Perdue responded August 31 that he would extend the waivers and flexibilities through December with current funding. We expect Congress to appropriate (federal government FY 20-21 begins October 1) sufficient funds to possibly extend the program through the 2020-2021 school year if necessary.

Additional Funds for Farmers to Families Food Box Program

USDA has added $1 billion to extend the program which has distributed over 75 million boxes so far. Farmers to Families was created last spring to shorten the food supply chain and allow farm commodities to be sold directly to distributors supplying feeding programs. The National Grange was an original supporter of creating Farmers to Families early last spring.

Keep the Trucks Moving

The National Grange and the Agricultural Transportation Working Group wrote members of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation to urge adoption of a flexible agriculture trucking policy as the Committee develops its next highway bill. To ensure resiliency of the food and agricultural supply chain, the bill should allow for a 10 percent load-shift axle tolerance and provide exemptions to the hours of service rule including:
• Eliminate the "planting and harvesting periods" rule
• Provide a 150-air-miles exemption from hours of service on the backend of hauls for ag commodities
• Update the definition of agricultural commodity to qualify for the exemption

Health Care

Extend Copay Coupons to Part D Beneficiaries

The National Grange joined the patient advocacy community to request the Department of Health and Human Services take action to reduce Medicare beneficiaries' Part D out-of-pocket costs during the pandemic. Specifically, the group asked HHS to rescind the current ban on the use of copay cards in the Medicare Part D program at least through the end of the current pandemic emergency. Medicare currently does not limit how much patients must pay for prescription drugs under Part D.

Faster Access to Lifesaving Innovation

In an August 31 proposed rule, Health and Human Services will shorten the "Valley of Death" time lag between approval of new medical technologies and their acceptance for Medicare coverage. Currently, the time between FDA approval for use and Medicare approval for coverage can take years. This rule, if approved, could include innovations like implants or cell-based tests to diagnose or treat life-threatening and debilitating diseases such as cancer and heart disease

Telecommunications

Morning Consult Features Grange President Huber

In mid-August, the daily Washington newsletter, Morning Consult, featured an op ed by National Grange president Betsy Huber calling on Democrats, Republicans and the President to include funding to expand emergency broadband infrastructure in the next COVID-19 relief package. High speed connectivity and more accurate broadband mapping are critical to support students learning at home, heath care providers standing up telemedicine networks, and businesses providing their services online.

Huber on Agri-Pulse Panel

Grange president Huber was a panelist in mid-August on the Agri-Pulse webinar, "Why Broadband is Important for Growing Sustainable Food". Panelists also included Shirley Bloomfield, CEO of NTCA The Broadband Association, and Tom Vanverloh, Vice President of Sustainability for the United Soybean Board.

Funding for Rapid Broadband Access

The National Grange joined the Connect Americans Now coalition on a letter to Senate and House leadership to encourage Congress to provide urgently needed funding to rapidly and cost effectively expand broadband access. The group said resources should be focused in the short run on rapid service deployments so long as there are clear requirements that service meet at least the FCC-defined speed for broadband.

Keep Lifeline Affordable

The National Grange wrote House Speaker Pelosi, Senate Majority Leader McConnell and members of the House and Senate Commerce Committees alerting them to recent actions by the Federal Communications Commission that could seriously impact Lifeline voice and broadband services. The FCC proposal, if enacted, would mandate a significant increase in copayment from Lifeline subscribers in this medically and economically uncertain time. Lifeline is a federally subsidized voice and broadband program specifically for disabled, isolated, chronically ill, elderly and low-income citizens and veterans.

United States Postal Service

Political Focal Point

One of the biggest focal points for online political drama today is the unlikely U.S. Postal Service. Representatives of both political parties, the union, the media, the President, Hollywood and conspiracy theorists are all engaged in melodramatic rumor-mongering about the unsexy subject of mail. Make no mistake about it, the Postal Service faces challenges that require congressional action to solve. In the meantime, we have to get through fall elections and a lingering devastating pandemic. In a recent National Grange newsletter, Grange President Betsy Huber said, "The recommendations now being acted upon by Postmaster DeJoy were made prior to the pandemic, which has become the backdrop to much of our way of life. While still relevant, carrying them out today as if we were still living pre-COVID will not work. The pandemic has changed everything about normal life, and the USPS is no different. At the same time as the USPS has taken a financial beating due to the coronavirus pandemic, it has also taken an even more essential role in our lives as millions have been forced to work, learn, and do business from home.... We've asked for a review of best practices but always stood on the side of keeping Americans from every part of our republic connected."

National Grange Actions

There are two major factors that frame the Post Office debate for the Grange:
• Essential service. Rural America needs the Post Office to deliver mail and bring supplies, medicines, groceries, ballots and more to citizens in remote areas and to isolated populations throughout the country. The Grange supported a $10 billion loan from Congress to the USPS earlier this year to assure its operation in the short term.
• Business acumen. The Post Office will have to operate effectively and efficiently going forward without the huge cash infusions from the federal government to continue operations. After the pandemic, expect the spotlight to be on the retiree health plan ($69 billion deficit), pension fund, and wages ($97,000 average per employee in 2019).

Perspective

Courage is not the absence of fear; it is the conquest of it. ~ William Danforth

Whatever you do, you need courage. Whatever course you decide upon, there is always someone to tell you that you are wrong. There are always difficulties arising that tempt you to believe your critics are right. ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

The greatest test of courage on earth is to bear defeat without losing heart. ~ Robert G. Ingersoll

Cowards die many times before their deaths. ~ William Shakespear

Courage is being scared to death - but saddling up anyway. ~ John Wayne

Feedback and questions are welcome. Call Burton Eller, at (202) 628-3507 ext. 114 or email beller@nationalgrange.org


August 2020

Click on article title to open or close article.

AUGUST 28, 2020

Grange Members - Call to Action

The California State Exposition and our Fair Grounds throughout California are hurting badly, financially, from the Corona Virus closing so many fairs this year. The California State Grange Youth Fair Director, Tacy Currey, has drafted a letter of support for members to send to their US Congressional representatives. The text is below for you to read. If you wish to send a letter, a Word document is attached at the link below for you to download, personalize and send. Please see the email contacts for our representatives. You can copy and past the letter directly in to their emails.

The California State Grange has long-standing policy of preserving our local and State Fairs. Please help. Forward this to your friends.

Find your US Representative - Upload to email

Senator Kamala Harris - Submit letter to her

Senator Dianne Feinstein - Submit letter to her

California Fairs Alliance and Western Fairs Association Email - info@Fairsnet.org

RE: Support the California Fairs Network

Dear {Insert Name Here}

As a private citizen and community member of our Fairgrounds I write to urge your support for the California Fairs Network as you deliberate the budget in the upcoming weeks.

{OPTIONAL: INSERT INFORMATION HERE ABOUT YOUR OWN CONNECTION WITH YOUR FAIRGROUNDS AND WHY YOU BELIEVE IT’S IMPORTANT TO SAVE IT.}

As we are all experiencing, Governor Newsom issued a statewide stay-at-home order and social distancing policies in response to the Covid-19 outbreak. Most recently on April 14th the governor announced six key indicators that will guide decisions as to how California will lift the stay-at-home order and reopen the economy. Newsom stated that there would be no large-scale mass gatherings like sporting events, fairs or concerts until there is a vaccine and/or herd immunity. This could be months away or longer, which means that mass gatherings like annual fairs and other large events are not going to happen any time soon.

Fairgrounds in California are self-funded, earning the revenue needed to support operations, promote community events, and maintain the facilities and grounds from presenting the annual fair and serving as an event center for the community. The aforementioned governmental actions have literally eliminated California fairgrounds’ ability to earn revenue. This has put all California fairgrounds in jeopardy.

The Network of California Fairs represents 76 fairgrounds that annually serve more than 35 million Californians in all 58 counties. Fairgrounds are often the heartbeat of their community, generating over $35 million in nonprofit and community benefits and promoting a quality of life serving as gathering spots, recreation facilities, and learning centers. Fairgrounds in California preserve 30,000 jobs and generate more than $3.5 billion in annual economic impact while contributing over $200 million in tax revenue to local and state governments.

In addition, Fairgrounds are an essential part of the infrastructure necessary for the state to effectively respond in natural disasters and emergencies. During wildfires, floods, and earthquakes Fairgrounds stage emergency vehicles and fire equipment, shelter displaced residents and animals, and generally support the community efforts to cope with each emergency. AS WE WRITE TO YOU, 28 FAIRGROUNDS IN CALIFORNIA ARE BEING UTILIZED FOR EVACUATIONS FROM FIRE.

To date, as a result of the stay-at-home order and response to Covid-19, more than 75 Fairs in California have canceled. More are expected to make that same decision in the coming weeks. Educational, entertainment, and family events that are important to the communities are also canceled. Events that preserve our traditions and heritage; events that bring neighbors together in celebration; events that memorialize significant family events such as quinceaneras, weddings, funerals; events that promote local economy and commerce; events that are the very fabric of community wellbeing are all canceled. The financial hardship is extreme and felt by our fairs, the employees and also vendors, concessionaires, entertainers, local businesses, exhibitors, carnivals, service providers, hotels, and nonprofits who rely on our fairgrounds and the Network of California Fairs to survive.

I respectfully request your help during these unprecedented challenging times by supporting legislation in support of the Network of Fairs. Without this level of support, many fairs will close. In fact, several fairs are scheduled to run out of funds and will be unable to pay their employees within the next 30 days.

The fair in my community has always been there to add to the quality of life and assist us in so many ways. The Network of California Fairgrounds must be supported so in turn the citizens of California can enjoy the values and benefits provided by all that takes place on our fairgrounds. My community, my county depends on the fairgrounds to ensure a quality of life that is healthy, safe, inclusive, accessible, and provides opportunity to all. I am optimistic that the future of fairs will strengthen and nurture communities that are currently hurting from the effects of Covid-19. Now is the time to provide funding and preserve the legacy of the state’s fairgrounds for future generations to come.

Thank you for supporting the fairs in California.

Sincerely,

Cc: Western Fairs Association California Fairs Alliance

Word Document For Your Use

AUGUST 28, 2020



PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE: Action and Information on USPS - Part I

By Betsy Huber, National Grange President

During a speech on his first day on the job June 15, Postmaster DeJoy said he wanted to place the USPS “on a trajectory for success.” He then began making moves recommended under Brennan’s administration by an independent watchdog of the agency to reduce costs – recommendations made prior to the pandemic.

The move to eliminate extra trips, adhere to a more standardized schedule for carriers including the requirement to return to their post office by a certain time regardless if all the mail on their route had been delivered, and the elimination of overtime were a few of the recommendations put into play in July.

The recommendations now being acted upon by DeJoy to reduce costs were made prior to the pandemic, which has become the backdrop to much of our way of life. While still relevant, carrying them out today as if we were still living pre-COVID will not work. The pandemic has changed everything about normal life, and the USPS is no different. At the same time as the USPS has taken a financial beating due to the coronavirus pandemic, it has also taken an even more essential role in our lives as millions have been forced to work, learn, and do business from home. The Grange has long called on every publicly funded entity to use good discretion and manage funds well for the good of the people. We’ve asked for a review of best practices but always stood on the side of keeping Americans from every part of our republic connected.

Removing underperforming mailboxes, dismantling sorting machines, reducing runs, and eliminating overtime may well be a steps in the right direction - but now is the wrong time. With bailouts and federal dollars going to other major industries, such as airlines, to keep them solvent and viable for the day we return to a semblance of normal, it only makes sense to include the USPS in these relief packages.

It is important to note as well that the USPS has been on a correction course for a number of years, trying to get its obligations and pricing in line with the volume of service. Yet more, the USPS has evolved and found new ways to engage and attract customers.

The USPS is the second-largest employer in the nation, with nearly 100,000 veterans on the payroll. As part of its belt-tightening, it has shed hundreds of thousands of career personnel over the past two decades, down to just under a half-million employees today from its peak in 1999 of nearly 800,000.

UPS, FedEx and other private delivery services have no mandate to deliver to every residence in the nation, while the USPS does. It serves as the last-mile carrier for many packages and envelopes left on its doorstep by its privately-owned competitors. The idea has been floated to privatize the USPS - the most popular government entity with more than 90 percent favorability ratings – a cause for concern specifically because of the issue of access. Should the USPS be run for break-even or profitability, many of our farthest flung countrymen may feel like they are transported back to the early 1890s when rural free delivery did not exist and they had to travel miles to a nearby town to collect mail and packages.

In addition, the USPS is the delivery method used by millions of Americans for life-saving and sustaining prescription drugs. As of 2013, 20 percent of all Americans receive their medicine by mail, including 50 percent of all Americans 60 and older. That number has undoubtably grown, especially in the time of COVID-19.

The most pressing issues for Veterans amid these mail slowdowns has been the impact of their ability to receive medications on time. According to the VA website medications should be arriving within 3-5 days, but report from VA staff and veterans have said these medications are sometimes taking weeks to be delivered and causing missed doses. With 80% of the VA prescriptions filled by mail and the continuation of a global pandemic, we should be able to rely on the USPS for timely deliveries.

Privatization could leave mail and packages unsecured, putting tax documents, social security checks, prescription drugs and ballots, to name a few, in jeopardy for theft or tampering.

Washington, Oregon, Hawaii, Colorado and Utah have moved to an all-mail voting system in the past several years, and while modest, participation rates in elections in those states has generally increased. As the pandemic took hold, California, Nevada, New Jersey, Vermont and the District of Columbia have all made provision to mail to each registered voter a ballot for the November election. Montana is leaving to the counties the decision to mail ballots.

We should be seeking secure and safe ways to make voting more accessible for every eligible elector because this ensures a stronger democracy. The USPS must be supported so that voters are certain their ballots will be received and delivered to the polls on time this November.

If you would like to take action check out our FreeRoots campaign on Facebook and send a letter to your local representative today.



Gatekeepers of Democracy Young American Poll Workers

By Mandy Bostwick National Youth Director

Each election, millions of Americans dedicate their time to ensure that registered voters have reliable places to cast their votes. With the continuing Covid-19 challenges across the nation, it is expected that there will be a shortage of poll workers. Poll workers are already in short supply, but as we navigate this global pandemic it is important to protect high-risk Americans including the elderly and immunosuppressed. The typical election worker, the one that greets you as you walk into the local library, fire department, church, or wherever your local polling place is, someone who has retired which more often than not puts them into the high-risk category. We need more young Americans to volunteer to continue to sustain the election process.

Poll workers can be the difference between a smooth election and long lines, confusion, and miscounted ballots. Being a poll worker is not overly strenuous, comes with training, and only takes one day. It also allows you to gain a broader understanding of our election process. These underpaid volunteers are more than just glorified receptionists, they are the gatekeepers to democracy.

According to the Election Assistance Commission poll workers are critical to an election. Having adequate numbers of poll workers to staff polling places on or before Election Day can ensure voters receive the assistance they need at the polls and can provide a positive and smooth voting experience for all. Most poll workers have traditionally been over the age of 61, making them especially vulnerable. This has resulted in a critical need for poll workers who are willing and able to assist with the administration of in-person voting on Election Day.

September 1st is National Poll Worker Recruitment Day. Each state recruits poll workers differently. Typically signing up to be a poll worker is done with your local election office. In some places, this is a county election office but it may also be at a county clerk or local level.

So where do Grange Youth and Young Adults come into play? Election offices are looking for younger people to work at the local polling place. The benefits of younger poll workers are undeniable. They bring enthusiasm, energy, and a familiarity and comfort with technology like electronic poll booths and optical ballot scanners. They are likely to remain poll workers for future elections. At a young age, it sparks interest in civic engagement and voting that might last a lifetime.

As Grange Youth and Young Adults, I encourage you to get involved in your community and register to be an election worker at the 2020 election in November. Follow the links and find what it takes to be an election worker in your state!

More information on Poll Worker Recruitment Day https://www.eac.gov/help-america-vote

Become a Poll Worker https://www.eac.gov/voters/become-poll-worker



Communications Update

By Amanda Brozana National Grange Communications Director

The communications team has been up to quite a few projects and it is all paying off. Since the arrival of intern, Kennedy Gwin, a member from Washington State, we have been able to write and submit Op-Eds to papers across the U.S. and have been published in almost every Grange state.

With a wide variety of topics currently being discussed by Congress, the Grange has been able to place articles about USPS, importance of voting, rural suicide, whole milk in schools and the importance of filling out the Census. Along with op-eds we have been working closely with the legislative Director Burton Eller, and intern Sean O’Neil, to ensure our advocacy is at the forefront.

If you check our social media, you will see our most recent campaign about the USPS and a previous one about milk in schools through the online contact system called FreeRoots. FreeRoots helps our members send letters directly to Congress and other legislators about whatever topic the Grange has been advocating for.

As we continue to engage with newspapers, we have also been getting quite a bit of online traffic as our social media is getting regularly updated with press statements as well as legislative action, along with our other content. Visit our Twitter, Facebook or LinkedIn to hear National President Betsy Huber’s recent interview with FederalNewsNetwork on the current USPS issue and rural America.

The communications team is now gearing up for the upcoming magazine Good Day! magazine and is excited to continue our other outreach. We remind you that if you have not renewed your subscription to Good Day!, it may be time. Use the Member ID on your recent issue’s mailing label to check when you are due to renew at www.nationalgrange.org/goodday now so you don’t miss an issue. You will find more of our outreach and other great coverage in the next issue coming out in mid-October.

Your Easiest Community Service Project

By Kennedy Gwin National Grange Intern

While Granges can’t meet at the moment there are still ways we can remain active in our community through advocacy. One way is engaging in local newspapers through Letters to the Editor focusing on a topic of importance. Below we have provided an example of a Letter to the Editor about the importance of participating in the Census. You can copy this letter to the editor and send it directly to your local newspaper or personalize it. Do not forget to include YOUR NAME and contact information when you submit. Let us know if it gets published by emailing communications@nationalgrange.org

Every ten years since 1790 the United States sets forth to count every human residing in the United States. The census helps the U.S. government draw boundaries for districts based on population density so that the people of these areas are receiving proper representation within the federal government. The Census also helps the federal government allocate money fairly among cities across the US to fund things like schools, hospitals, and roads. While politics may be a messy conversation in our polarized society that makes you want to turn a blind eye, filling out the Census is a way in which you can remain civically engaged with little to no controversy. Filling out the Census is a community action that betters your hometowns and you can do it from your couch. If you received a mailer, simply fill it out and send it back. Another option is to fill it out online at www.census.org. Five minutes is all it takes and in those five minutes, you could be contributing thousands of dollars directly to your community. Take action and fill out your Census today.







I am pleased to report that the Mendocino County Superior Court has granted summary judgment to the Grange on all claims in the lawsuit to recover control of Fort Bragg Grange No. 672’s property from a local Guild group that wrongfully has held it since 2017. This ruling represents the complete vindication of the Order and the unequivocal application of its rules to Subordinate Granges and the property they hold. The order is available here: 2020 Fort Bragg Grange MSJ Decision

In particular, the summary judgment order rewards the perseverance of Fort Bragg Grange’s members, who rejected the efforts of the Guild’s leaders to appropriate its property, including when those Guild-affiliated individuals broke into the Fort Bragg Grange Hall with crowbars to change the locks and take the building away from the membership. Despite this, Fort Bragg Grange’s members kept their faith in the Grange and continued the good work that Fort Bragg Grange has done for decades, all while meeting in members’ living rooms and local restaurants while they were wrongfully locked out of their Hall. Please join me in congratulating Fort Bragg Grange and its members in this wonderful result!

Just like the California Court of Appeal’s decision in the cases against the California Guild and Robert McFarland (available here -- National Grange Appeals Court Decision), the Mendocino County court has unequivocally held that Grange rules have meaning and are binding under California law. I hope that everybody reading this who is involved with a local Guild group that controls Subordinate Grange property reads the attached orders in full and carefully considers what they mean.

These orders make clear that it is long past time that we put the court battles behind us. The California State Grange has filed a number of lawsuits against other local Guild groups that, just like in the Fort Bragg Grange case, hold Subordinate Grange property following the revocation of the Subordinate Grange’s Charter. As the ruling in the Fort Bragg Grange case shows, the courts will enforce the rules of the Order and require that the property be returned to the California State Grange. But rather than litigating every single case to final judgment (with the attendant hard feelings and potential personal liability of the individuals that diverted Grange property), I would much rather see these disputes resolved in a fraternal manner. There is a process under the Digest for any Subordinate Grange that has had its Charter revoked to apply to have it restored so that it can return to good standing in the Order. That option remains open whether a lawsuit has been filed or not. Alternatively, a number of local groups already have returned the Subordinate Grange property they held to the California State Grange and the lawsuits against them have been dismissed. The California State Grange is going to attempt to reorganize those Subordinate Granges as it is required to do under the Digest. Please contact me or CSG Secretary Lillian Booth if you would like to discuss either option.

As always, we urge everybody to read the court documents themselves rather than rely on any spin from the Guild. For those interested in a quick summary, here are some of the highlights from the court’s order in the Fort Bragg

Grange case:

-- The court summarized several undisputed facts (i.e., those that the court found that all of the evidence submitted by both sides established were true) that are generally applicable to all Subordinate Granges on page 2: “The next level of the Order is made up of Subordinate Granges who also may adopt rules and by-laws that do not conflict with the Digest of Laws. The Subordinate Grange becomes a division of the National Order once it receives a Charter from the National Grange. The [C]harter requires faithful allegiance and compliance with the [Digest of Laws]. The Subordinate Granges have officers who are installed in a ceremony and are required to uphold the rules of the Order. The State Grange has the authority to revoke the charter of a Subordinate Grange.

Once revoked, a Subordinate Grange has no authority to operate. There are no provisions in the rules of the Order for the unilateral disaffiliation of any Subordinate Grange.”

“The rules of both the National Grange and the California Grange contain numerous provisions to ensure that any real or personal property of a Subordinate Grange will remain with the Order. Specifically, Sections 1.9.1 and 4.11.1.-3 of the Digest of Laws clearly requires that when a Subordinate Grange sells, encumbers, or transfers its real or personal property, the proceeds from that transaction must be retained by the Order. Sections 1.10.1 and 1.11.4 also require that when a Subordinate Grange has its Charter revoked, the real and personal property of that Grange will be retained by the Order. Section 4.12.1 sets forth the specific procedures for the transfer of property to a State Grange after the revocation of a [C]harter. In essence, when a Subordinate Grange has its [C]harter revoked, the Subordinate Grange will be deemed inactive and all right, title and interest to all real or personal property owned by the inactive Subordinate Grange shall become the property of the State Grange which has jurisdiction over the inactive .Subordinate Grange. The State Grange will hold the property in trust for the benefit of the inactive Subordinate Grange in the event the Subordinate Grange is reorganized pursuant to Grange law.”

-- The court held on page 5 that it was required under California law to enforce the rules of the Order applicable to Subordinate Granges: “This case can and must be decided as a matter of law. The court is required to enforce the rules of the Order governing the National, State, and Subordinate Granges.”

-- The court also held on page 5 that the individuals who attempted to take Fort Bragg Grange and its property to the Guild violated the oaths they swore in order to become members and officers of Fort Bragg Grange: “The court agrees with [the Grange] that the actions taken by the [Guild] to disaffiliate the Fort Bragg Grange from the Order violated the very oaths and promises made by the individual defendants. As a condition of receiving a Charter, the Fort Bragg Grange agreed to abide by the Constitution, Rules, Bylaws and Grange laws.”

-- On pages 5-6, the court rejected the Guild’s argument that Fort Bragg Grange’s relationship with the Order somehow was changed by the revocation of the California State Grange’s Charter was revoked in 2013: “Pursuant to the Digest of Laws however, the revocation of the State Grange’s Charter had no effect on the relationship of the Subordinate Granges in California. The only difference is the National Grange assumes the oversight responsibilities previously exercised over the Subordinate Grange by the State Grange.”

-- The Guild argued that the California State Grange today is somehow a different entity than it was before the revocation of its Charter in 2013. (It is not.) The court rejected this argument outright on page 6: the Guild “argue[s] that the State Grange has no standing in this case. The problem with this position is that courts have previously held that the California State Grange is properly recognized as the only State Grange in California. In addition, … the California .Guild was not authorized to act on behalf of that entity at any point after the 2013 revocation of the California State Grange's Charter and … all actions that it purported to take on behalf of that corporation are null and void.”

-- Finally, the Guild argued that it was not bound by amendments to National Grange’s Digest of Laws and the California State Grange’s Constitution and By-Laws after Fort Bragg Grange received its Charter in 1938. The court rejected that argument in its entirety on page 6. As always, if you have any questions or would like to discuss anything at all, you can call or e-mail me any time.

Sincerely and Fraternally,
Kent Westwood, President, California State Grange

View Fort Bragg Grange MSJ Decision

View National Grange Appeals Court Decision



AUGUST 21, 2020


PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE: Action and Information on USPS - Part I

By Betsy Huber, National Grange President

The United States Postal Service is part of our public trust – an essential resource for individuals and businesses, and a piece of the American fabric that has long made our nation great. The current crisis involving USPS and its solvency is not new in 2020, though the pandemic has exacerbated the problem, as it has with so many other facets of American life.

Since its earliest days in the late 1800s, the Grange has known the importance of a robust and solvent postal service and advocated for such. Specifically, the work of our members in the latter part of the 19th century to secure rural free delivery helped to elevate life in some of our nation’s most remote corners and level the playing field for social connection and business.

For more than two centuries the USPS was an official department within the U.S. government and as such had a budget that helped subsidize shortfalls in revenue, meaning its operations came with a little help from its friends – the U.S. taxpayers. In 1970, as part of an overall shift toward a smaller federal government, the Postal Reorganization Act was passed, a milestone in the evolution of USPS from federal department to self-determining agency. Over the next several years, $9 billion tax dollars were used as part of that move towards independence, and in 1982, the now-independent agency took its last no-strings-attached taxpayer dollars. Loans to the agency are still available through the federal government, but must be paid back in full.

From 1983 to 2006, under its own management with little federal interference, the agency ran a deficit budget only four times. Then in 2006, the Postal Accountability and Enhancement Act - that required it to fully fund the pension of employees 75 years out - was signed and pushed the financially solvent agency into the freefall we have seen since.

Not once since 2006 has the agency turned a profit or even come close to breaking even. Their best year since the unfunded liability mandate was 2017 when they lost just over $2.5 billion. Five years before, in 2012, the agency had its worst year on record when expenses were more than $15.7 billion over revenue and they missed making payments into the pension plan – a failure repeated year after year since. To date, the agency – which cannot set its own rates and as such does not determine its own destiny – has paid $278 billion into the fund, but owes more than $120 billion.

The act also mandated specific service goals for the USPS, weakened the provisions in the Postal Reorganization Act of 1970 that protected rural and remote post offices, and created a postal rate cap that has been beneficial to consumers but undermines the agency’s ability to raise the funds necessary for the mandated pension payments.

In 2016, then Postmaster General Megan Brennan told Congress the agency would run out of funds by 2024. By May 2020, COVID-19 shifted the timeline dramatically with Brennan’s deadline changing to first September 2020, then April 2021 as some momentum picked back up in the economy and as consumers rallied around the beloved agency, purchasing stamps and sending letters.

Americans rely on the Postal Service to deliver not only correspondence, but income checks, tax documents, and other sensitive materials daily. In 2019, the USPS handled more than 140 billion items, down from its peak of 213 billion in 2006.

The USPS is also the essential connection for many rural Americans who have been left behind in the great buildout of the internet age. Millions of Americans have no high-speed internet at home – about 30 million according to the FCC, or upwards of 41.2 million individuals as reported by a study conducted by BroadbandNow which has highlighted the inaccurate methods used to produce broadband maps.

The move by Speaker Nancy Pelosi to have Congress return and the emergency hearing with recently-appointed Postmaster General Louis DeJoy slated for Friday, August 20 is necessary. However, plans for legislation to restrict the USPS’s options to make its way out of the financial quicksand is equally short-sighted if it does not include an effort on the part of both the House and Senate to somehow repeal or reform this pension mandate.

The USPS Fairness Act, which would undo the pension pre-funding requirement, passed the House in 2017 and again just before the pandemic began this year, but has never been acted upon by the Senate.



First Digital Membership & Leadership Training A Success!

By Joe Stefenoni, National Membership Director

On Saturday August 15, Growth Through Action: Planning the Future for Your Community Grange, the first fully digital membership & leadership training, was held via Zoom. This program lays the foundation for Community Granges to create their own strategic/action plans. In a typical year, these workshops would be conducted in person all across the country. However, COVID presented the challenge and opportunity to transition these trainings into a digital format.

Participants go through four steps beginning with evaluating the current condition of their Community Grange, determining what is the future of their Community Grange, evaluating the resources available to their Community Grange and finally creating a strategic/action plan. Participants should finish the workshop with the ability to return to their Community Grange and work to create a strategic/action plan. The goal is that participants return to their Community Grange and work with the Grange leadership to create a shared vision for the future.

Strategic/action plans are useful tools for Community Granges no matter their status. Strategic/action plans are a way for Community Granges to objectively evaluate where they are, where they want to be and how they get there. These plans shouldn’t be made by just one person, instead they should be created by Grange leadership & stakeholders and shared with all the members. These strategic/action plans also show the community and potential members that the Grange is actively thinking about its future. All members are invited to attend and participate since all members have a stake in the future of their Community Grange and the Grange as a whole organization.

The next session of Growth Through Action will be held on Saturday September 19 th beginning at 12:30 pm eastern time (9:30 am pacific). A third session has been added for Saturday October 10th . The October 10 th session will begin at 1 pm eastern (10 am pacific). Each session lasts approximately 2.5 to 3 hours with short breaks throughout. Participants are given a workbook to use during the seminar as well as when they return to work with their Community Grange.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER



Upcoming Lecturer Contests

While convention may not be in the most conventional format this year that does not mean our contests need to be put on hold.

We are hosting a virtual photo contest, a quilt block contest and more so use some of that quarantine time to tap into your creative side. While you are out on your walks feel free to bring a camera along and snap pictures of things that bring you joy and ones that you can eventually enter in our contest.

If you are looking for a new hobby and wanting to try something out of your comfort zone look up some quilt patterns and break out your teal fabric. This contest only requires you to enter one block.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ON DATES AND OTHER CONTESTS

IT'S A MOMENT IN TIME





RESOLUTION DEADLINE

145TH ANNUAL SESSION

Resolutions Due:

Tuesday, September 1, 2020

Use this link to submit electronically.



Support For the United States Postal Service

Message from Burton Eller, National Grange Legislative Director

Brothers and Sisters,

The Grange has a long association with ensuring the delivery of mail to residents of the United States. National Grange Lecturer Mortimer Whitehead first reported on the rural free delivery of mail in 1891 and in 1901 the Grange succeeded in having the rural free delivery of mail instituted nationally.

Today, the United States Postal Service is just as vital as it was at the turn of the 20th century. The ongoing COVID19 pandemic has forced millions of Americans to work, learn, and receive medical care from their homes, putting an unprecedented burden on the United States Postal Service. This burden is of particular concern to the millions of rural Americans for whom the Postal Service is a lifeline through which they receive essential medicine, pay their bills, and do business at a reasonable rate. Yet more, as millions of Americans prepare to vote by mail in this fall’s election, effective and quick Postal Service will be essential for rural Americans to have their voices heard at the ballot box.

To defend the Postal Service and protect the medical and financial interests of Americas, please take just 60 seconds follow the link below to let your representatives know that they must fix this problem now! Use the link below to connect to your specific representatives. Thank you for being involved!

Fraternally,

Burton Eller, Legislative Director
National Grange

Click Here To Connect To Your Representative



AUGUST 14, 2020



Become A Positive Influence for the Upcoming School Year

By Samantha Wilkins, National Junior Grange Director

My goodness our world changed in the last six months!

With our students thrown into an entirely new school system, to weeks of not being able to leave the house. In what we thought would be a short-lived experience that only impacted the last half of school, here we are watching our school boards debate. We did not expect to be making alternative plans for our children’s education as schools continue to flip-flop their choices on whether we will have an in-person class or a continued extension of online schooling.

Many unknowns about how the next few months will shake out has many of us on edge. Trying to explain to our children that plans could change day by day or that they won’t be going back to a traditional classroom for a while is tough.

I know myself as a parent had to break the news to my kiddos that many of our plans for the fall would have to wait. Currently our school is planning hybrid schedules for some grades while others will go every day and then some groups will be completing a virtual education. I look at the fall schedule that has been presented for my family and I am stressed.

We have all dealt with a lot over the last few months and we still see many months of unknowns and sudden changes ahead of us. I cannot control the world around me, but I can make sure that my feelings of doubt and frustration do not rub off on my children.

During this time, it is important to know that we as parents or teachers and even Junior Grange leaders play a significant role in how our children will react to the upcoming school year. It does not matter if you are planning to be virtual, hybrid, full time, or any other alternative education schedule it is important for us to continue to remain positive.

Reinforcement by definition is the act of strengthening a certain behavior so that it is more likely to be repeated. This can and does involve specific acts such as praise, recognition, rewards, or appreciation for a job well done. When we use this positive reinforcement, we give it power to inspire and motivate our learners.

It is so incredibly important that we integrate positive reinforcement into our learning environment no matter what that environment may look like. According to the eLearning Industry there are six ways in which we can create and encourage positive learning behaviors.

1. Personalize your Praise
2. Offer positive constructive feedback
3. Reward positive behavior immediately
4. Design activities that focus on progress and improvement
5. Don’t offer rewards on a regular basis
6. Recognize top learners by integrating leaderboards or other reward systems (this can work well with multiple children in the home)

Other ways that you can create a positive learning environment for your children is by keeping yourself positive- do not express your frustrations about a teacher or an assignment in front of your children. When you express these frustrations the learner may mimic similar frustration and as a result make it hard for them to build a positive relationship with both their teacher and education.

Junior Leaders and Granges- what can you do?

Understandably many of our Junior Granges have not been meeting in regular form due to the pandemic and some of us may have felt a disconnected from our Grange families. With this a lot of questions about how we can recreate that connection again arise. Without a doubt your Juniors may be feeling some of the stress related to the start of the new school year. I want to encourage you to find creative ways to reach out to your Juniors- since gatherings are discouraged see what other things you can come up with that are not computer based. Our children could be spending countless hours in front of a screen and we really want to give their little eyes and brain a rest.

Here are a few ideas that you could maybe implement with your Juniors:

1. Send them cards- Kids love getting mail and a card encouraging them the continue the good work would mean so much to them
2. Offer tutoring or lending a hand in another capacity- parents that will have kiddos home over the school year are going to have times where they need some help. That help may be in the form of tutoring or just a break from the day to day routine that will also give the Juniors a break.
3. Have your Grange sponsor activity baskets- provide your Juniors with a basket full of goodies- such as bubbles, chalk, coloring books, age appropriate books, gift cards to their favorite ice cream shop etc.
4. Arrange a small group activity at your Grange- A movie night or hike or even an evening where you can all get together and create entries for the Junior Contests.
5. Set up photo scavenger hunt throughout town or around your Grange.
6. A virtual karaoke or BINGO night

The possibilities are endless- but what I really encourage is for you to begin thinking outside of the box on how you can encourage your Juniors, create positive environments, and most of all have fun. Let’s get away from spreading negativity and turn this into a positive experience. Life and school will be stressful enough- let’s do our part in creating something good!

For questions or to share your ideas- contact National Junior Grange Director, Samantha Wilkins at junior@nationalgrange.org


Avoid Contact Tracing Scams

From the FCC

Contact tracing is a public health technique used to identify individuals who have had close contact with someone known to have the virus. Because of the urgent need to notify those that may have been exposed and prevent larger outbreaks, tracers will often use a variety of methods to contact the individual, including calls and text messages.

Scammers follow the headlines and have started impersonating contact tracers. Patrick Webre, Chief of the FCC’s Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau recently addressed this scam in an interview with ABC New York’s 7 On Your Side. https://abc7ny.com/7-on-your-side-covid-scams-coronavirus-covid-19/6345390/

Be aware, legitimate contact tracers will not ask for:

• Insurance information
• Bank account information
• Credit card numbers
• Social Security numbers
• or payment

If a caller asks for any of the above, hang up.

Contact tracers will also never reveal the identity of the person who tested positive. They will also be able to provide current local testing locations.

Scammers are also using text messages to impersonate contact tracers. Never click on a link in a text message from an unknown sender, it may install malware onto your device or take you to a phony website designed to collect personal information.

Learn more about contact tracing scams by visiting: https://www.fcc.gov/fear-fuels-covid-19-contact-tracing-scams.

Check with your state’s health department or COVID-19 task force to learn how they are implementing contact tracing and how they plan to contact individuals who have been in contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19. Contact tracing methods may vary by state. The FCC’s COVID-19 Consumer Guide has information about coronavirus scams and how you can avoid becoming a victim, along with helpful tips on cell phone hygiene and optimizing your home wireless network, and more.

MEMBER BENEFITS: AFLAC Supplemental Health Benefit

Supplemental Health Benefits are available to National Grange members, the member’s spouse and the member’s dependent children through AFLAC.

These supplemental benefit policies pay cash directly to the members for members to use as they see fit. Members will never receive a 1099 or be taxed in any way on the cash benefits paid from these policies.

Cash benefits are paid if Grange members (policy holders) have an accident and use the services of a hospital emergency room or urgent care center, contract internal cancer, experience a heart attack or stroke, need major organ transplants, use certain services of their dentist and more.

Please go to www.aflac.com/nationalgrange or call Theon Karabatsos at 561-398-1204 or email theon_karabatsos@us.aflac.com





AUGUST 7, 2020

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE: Remember oath, Grange values when going social

By Betsy E. Huber, National Grange President

Today’s world is becoming more and more polarized and partisan each day. Family members and Grange members are on opposite sides of current issues and feel compelled to promote their opinions strongly, especially on social media where the speaker is removed from face-to-face confrontation. We would never make these statements to someone’s face, but we feel safe posting them on social media where we are protected from conflict.

Our Grange ritual and obligations are filled with specific expectations about how we are to act as Grangers – inside and outside our meetings and halls. In every meeting, the president is called to remind us during our opening ceremony that the purpose of the Grange is “for promoting the welfare of our country and of mankind.” In the closing ceremony, just before we go our separate ways, we are urged to be “quiet, peaceful citizens… keeping ourselves unspotted from the world.”

These words were written at a time similar to ours today – when there were deep and personal differences of opinion and experiences. Inflammatory posts and rhetoric do nothing to bring us together or promote peace.

When each of us joined the Grange we pledged to never “wrong or defraud a member of the Order or allow it to be done by another if within my power to prevent it.” Within our Order there has always been and will always be people of various diverse groups – of faith, race, ethnicity and political affiliation. Posting or sharing items that attack an entire party, race, or even generation of people blindly includes the Grangers among them and wrongs them. When your fellow members of that attacked group see their Brothers and Sisters spewing hate for them, how can they not feel a bit betrayed and deceived that the Grange lessons and oaths were not taken to heart. Your personal posts can easily make someone in your Grange feel as if you believe them to be inferior or that you are disrespectful of those they love – an easy way to pull apart an organization whose founding documents have given us tried and true guidelines to avoid such a fate in an unsettled time.

For those who have been elected and installed into office, the pledge specifically prohibits using our position to influence the beliefs of our members: “I will not take advantage of my position to unfairly influence other members with my political or religious opinions.” Officers at any level have an extra responsibility to behave at all times as if they represent the Grange, and are held to a higher standard. To these individuals, a special reminder: there is a very fine line between expressing your personal opinion on your personal Facebook page, and speaking for the Grange you serve, because people know you are a Granger and may think you are voicing the general feelings of the Grange organization. Your generalized scorn for a class of people will make any task insurmountable when you try to work together for the good of the Grange.

Finally, and maybe most importantly, I urge you to remember our motto: “In essentials, unity; in nonessentials, liberty; in all things charity.” Before you post something, take another look at it. Does it show charity (love) to all? Could someone we love take offense to what we are sharing? Sometimes it’s better just to keep on scrolling and not repost an item or respond with a comment if it will not be beneficial.

While your personal accounts are just that, your Grange-oriented accounts are under even more scrutiny because the content on them reflects on our entire organization. Please remember whom you’re representing and act accordingly. This means avoid cursing or unacceptable language, avoid posting inappropriate material, avoid misrepresenting the Grange by stating views that aren’t in alignment with Grange policy. Always be welcoming and charitable.

These moral standards apply to posts made to a Grange page by you through your personal account as well. Avoid posting anything that contains inappropriate content or language. AGAIN REMEMBER: you are representing the Grange and everything you post to Facebook or any other site is FOREVER.

I hope that we as Grangers will try to do better and do our part to restore civility to our small area of the world.


Thinking outside the box to bring visibility to the Grange

By Amanda Brozana Rios, National Grange Communications & Development Director

Last Tuesday Johanna Huber, an intern with the National Grange, hosted an episode of Cultivating Connections to introduce ways in which local Granges can use Instagram, a social media platform that has a large following among this generation’s Grange Youth and Young Adult members.

As part of the discussion about the visual platform that requires photos or videos for each post, we looked at ways in which Granges can tell their story even when our meetings look much different than what we are most used to.

Many of you may be thinking, “How can I possibly find anything to post to any social media account when our Grange isn’t meeting?”

In fact, this is the perfect time to create or keep established social media accounts active and raise the visibility of your Grange in your community and beyond.

Grange is multi-faceted – a wonderful thing about our organization where nearly anyone can find a home. It also means that even when we are not meeting because of COVID-19 or between regular business and events we can find things to use to engage and entice our followers.

Think about the great Grange potlucks you’ve had over the years. Take a photo of that ready-to-pick tomato you have in your backyard and use it to share a favorite recipe you may see on the tables at a potluck event. Use the opportunity to tell your community how much you miss seeing everyone and that you can’t wait until it’s safe to open your doors again so you can invite everyone for a meal together.

Have a photo of an event that your Grange takes part in that’s been canceled this year? Use it to get a discussion going. “We love seeing you all at the annual ______ and serving up our famous _______. What’s your favorite food at the festival?” People love to be able to engage and interact.

What about a picture of your building and a question: “What events have you attended at our Grange?” Get those good feelings flowing among your followers.

These are just a few of the many creative ways you can use pictures to tell a story and engage individuals.

But there’s so many other ways.

You can share news clippings of Grange victories – in Washington state, maybe the effort to have direct election of senators – and talk about the continued influence of the Grange.

Go online and find an interesting article (I love dailyyonder.com and any local newspaper) to give your followers a new perspective. Today’s commentary piece that discusses the fact that the infrastructure of rural schools was failing long before COVID and must be addressed is a great example. Post the link and talk about how important education and the investment in quality facilities is to ensure all children have a great headstart for their future.

Find an inspirational quote, take a photo and post it. People love little pick-me-ups, especially now. What about Herman Melville’s: “We cannot live only for ourselves. A thousand fibers connect us with our fellow men.” Simply take a close-up picture of some yarn strands laid out on a table, and voilà! You now have a post that tells what the Grange is all about that can be enjoyed and shared.

One big suggestion is to use your own high-quality digital photos or photos from stock websites that are royalty free, such as unsplash.com or pexels.com. Do not just grab a photo from another website or Google search. You could find an email or letter telling you that you used someone else’s work and you now owe them money – and it won’t be a scam.

I highly recommend using canva.com to help make your posts beautiful. Photos found there (use the filter to choose free ones) are always at your disposal, so you won’t have to worry about copyright infringement. I encourage you to add to every one the correct Grange logo (the one with the registered trademark ®) – and don’t forget, Grange is always capitalized.

Let’s light up social media. Let’s step outside our comfort zone and pick up a new platform like Instagram that engages a younger audience searching for positivity. Let’s connect our community in a time when we are so divided.


If you’re worried that you don’t have the capacity or creativity to in the coming weeks we will be adding a page to the National Grange website with pre-made visual posts (and some text-only options as well) that you can use at any time on your Grange or personal social media pages and profiles. IT Director Stephanie Wilkins will make magic happen by organizing them by month and by category so you can easily go find an option that works for you. We hope to update the page with a few options each week so there is always something fresh for you to use.

This is just another resource we are providing to help our Granges raise their profile and be active during this difficult time. We will also soon have an updated Communications Handbook for Granges available for free download or purchase through the Grange store. Look for that text, which will include step-by-step instructions on creating social media accounts for Granges, best practices and much more, later this year.

Children can be part of home safety during summer

The summer of 2020 has been very different for most families -- from COVID, to no school or remote school, to closed playgrounds, no camps and restricted pool access. It's been especially challenging for families with children. Parents who were planning on sending children to camps and participating in other activities now find themselves trying to work -- with their kids at home with nothing to do.

To help with that situation, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is offering this activity idea for all ages: engaging children to help parents and caregivers identify safety hazards in the home and helping (where appropriate) to fix them. Grangers and Junior Grangers know how resourceful youngsters can be; CPCS knows that engaging children to look for hazards will create a safer living environment for the entire family while they continue to stay home. I know my kids love telling me when I have made a mistake. By giving them some autonomy over these safety protocols, the kids will not only learn more about safety, but have a little fun at the expense of us parents.

CPSC recommends the following activities:


• With the help of an adult, test and change batteries in all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. You can also go online together and get more tips here: https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/outreach/smoke_alarms.html.
• Children ages 3-12 can help find broken toys that could be hazardous. The CPSC has an easy to find website where you can search for toys to see if they are on a recall list. https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/search-by-company.
• Children ages 6-18 can help rake a 9 to 12-inch-deep layer mulch, wood chips, sand, or pea gravel under back yard swing sets and play equipment or help place mats of safety-tested rubber. There’s a playground safety checklist here: https://www.cpsc.gov/safety-education/safety-guides/playgrounds/public-playground-safety-checklist.
• Children 12-18 can ensure that cleaning products and chemicals are stored out of reach of their younger siblings. The dangers of combining cleaning products can also be discussed. Sometimes parents forget to put things away. Kids can also put “poison stickers” on items. You can get these stickers here: https://www.poison.org/order-materials
• Children ages 14-18 can help ensure furniture is appropriately anchored to the wall. Check out AnchorIt.gov, a division of the CPSC that focuses on tip-over education!

You can find additional safety checklists at https://www.cpsc.gov/Safety-Education.



Tues. August 11 @ 7:00 PM EDT National Membership Director Joe Stefenoni discusses “The Next Generation of Grange”

Thurs. August 13 @ 7:30 PM EDT National Update with President Betsy Huber

All Cultivating Connections episodes can be found on our YouTube Channel starting at the time list for their live event and anytime thereafter. Check it out at www.youtube.com/nationalgrange Want to see a specific episode? Go to our website at www.nationalgrange.org/grange-videos to see all past episodes including descriptions. If you have suggestions or questions, contact Amanda at communications@nationalgrange.org.

MEMBER BENEFITS: Grange Hall Insurance

We help Grangers from all over the country find coverage they need to protect their Granges. Bob Clouse Insurance bas been in business since 1978, but our service to the Grange goes back further. Here is a link to our web page for Granges https://www.clouseins.com/granges. We can also help State Granges with their coverage needs.



There is an old Country song by Gene Autry, where the lyrics goes...

I'm back in the saddle again
Out where a friend is a friend
Where the longhorn cattle feed
On the lowly jimsonweed
Back in the saddle again

We welcome back Brother Kent Westwood has recovered from his medical leave and is once again serving as the President of the California State Grange, effective August 1, 2020.

Sister Jan Saxton, has been acting as the President during Kent's recovery. Jan is deserving of a heart-felt "Well Done!" and standing ovation for her work during this time.



July 2020

Click on article title to open or close article.


JULY 2020 WRAP-UP

National Grange Submits Platform Statements
In preparation for the public policy platforms to be considered at the Democratic and Republican National Conventions, the National Grange submitted policy statements to the members of both parties' platform committees. The Grange emphasized several of its top policy priorities including emergency access to rural broadband connectivity and access to rural health care. The statements emphasized the urgent need to create Wi-Fi hotspots in rural areas and small towns to deliver distance learning, telehealth and telebusiness to country crossroads, parking lots and buildings in common locations as the second wave of COVID-19 sweeps more remote areas of the country. The Grange also called attention to rapidly disappearing health care service as rural hospitals and clinics continue to close and offered several recommendations for platform consideration.

Agriculture and Food

Dietary Guidelines Report Mostly Positive
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans is issued every five years and is used by nutritionists, physicians, dieticians and other health professionals to advise the public about healthy eating. A committee of experts is appointed jointly by USDA and HHS to craft these recommendations based upon the best science and research available. The committee has finished its work and the report has been submitted to the Secretaries of USDA and HHS for public comment, review, revision and adoption. At times in the past, the Guidelines seemed to unscientifically disparage foods of animal origin. This time the report appears to generally follow sound science and recommend diets include dairy products and animal protein. One area supported by recent research but not included in the report is the value of whole milk in the diet of young and school age children. As a result, the National Grange has submitted comments urging USDA and HHS to return whole milk to the national school lunch program.

Demand for Local Meat Processing Grows
During the first wave of COVID-19 last winter and spring, meat counters were bare but livestock and poultry supplies backed up on farms and ranches and retail prices to consumers skyrocketed. This sparked renewed calls for further revisions to meat and poultry inspection laws to allow state inspected meat from small local plants to be sold to consumers, restaurants and grocery stores as well as be sold across state lines. More and more lawmakers on the Hill are introducing bills to make that happen. USDA says it is well aware of this surging demand and is "committed to working with stakeholders to balance food safety with these growing consumer preferences." National Grange policy strongly supports state inspection, local processing and sale direct to consumers

Food Insecurity Grows

The percentage of American households considered food insecure has surged to levels higher than during the Great Depression. Northwestern University analyzes weekly Census Bureau surveys and has found that Black and Hispanic households with children are nearly twice as likely to be struggling with food as similar white families. These high levels of food insecurity don't seem to be improving as states reopen. This trend is fueling calls from Democrats on the Hill for an increase in food stamp benefits in the next coronavirus aid package. At the same time, food banks say their biggest challenge has been the loss of volunteers. The majority of pre-pandemic volunteers were older adults. USDA has decided to extend several school lunch and nutrition programs through the new school year. These include more flexibility with meal patterns, group-setting requirements, meal service times, and the freedom to operate in ways that fit their local, on-the-ground situations.

Conservation and Environment

The House Select Committee on the Climate Crisis has released a 547-page report which could serve as a blueprint for Democrats should they gain control of Congress and the White House in November. Their Climate Crisis Action Plan calls for net-zero greenhouse emissions in the United States by 2050 and underscores a big role for agriculture conservation. It calls for greatly increased funding for working lands conservation programs, a reduction in agricultural emissions (nutrient management, rotational grazing, etc.), support for next-generation farmers, increased technical assistance to farmers, support for renewable energy, preserving farmland from development and reduced food waste.

Coronavirus Relief

Back in May, the House passed its $3.2 trillion HEROES Act without Republican support which continues funding most current aid programs and adds scores of new relief areas. The Senate chose to wait and see what programs are no longer needed, what changes are needed to certain programs and time to assess new program proposals. Senate Republican leadership has been working on their relief package since June and released their HEALS Act to colleagues on July 27 without Democratic support. Highlights of the Senate GOP HEALS Act are:


• Allocates $75 billion for testing, tracing, isolation measures, support for hospitals and health providers, and assures free access to treatment for individuals
• Pays another round of direct payments to individuals @$1,200 per person
• Allows hardest-hit small employers (less than 300 employees) whose revenue fell more than 50% to get a second favorable Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan and automatically forgives all PPP loans under $150,000
• Extends unemployment benefits of $200 per week for two months. After that, states are to pay employees about 70% of the income they had before losing their job.
• Includes $70 billion to help schools reopen and $30 billion for colleges and universities
• Protects businesses and institutions from coronavirus -related lawsuits if they follow government guidelines
• Adds $20 billion to compensate agricultural producers and processors for the impact of the pandemic and includes compensation for livestock and poultry depopulated due to insufficient processing access

It is important to note that the HEROES Act and the HEALS Act must be reconciled and passed by the Senate and House with agreement from the White House to prevent a veto.

The National Grange and several agricultural groups are lobbying to make Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) eligibility for 501(c)(5) agricultural organizations part of the final package, arguing that strong viable organizations are necessary to help agriculture sector recovery. The National Grange and over 200 farm and business groups urged Senate and House leadership to include a provision in the final package to ensure small businesses can deduct eligible expenses paid with a forgiven Paycheck Protection Program loan from their taxes.

Health Care

Cancer Cell Therapy Takes a Step Forward

The National Grange sent a letter of appreciation to the Administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) for issuing a proposed rule to advance cancer therapy. The proposal will sufficiently compensate hospitals for CAR T cancer cell therapy to Medicare beneficiaries. That means more facilities in more locations will be able to provide access to this procedure for rural and small town patients. Previously, the Grange sent a letter to the Congressional Rural Caucus asking for their support to ensure CMS would initiate a process for wider geographical access. A follow up letter of appreciation was sent to the Caucus.

Copay Assistance is Important

Copay coupon assistance programs from drug manufacturers are critical support for people with serious illnesses, chronic conditions and disabilities to secure prescription medicines. The National Grange joined over 100 patient groups on a letter to the Administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to express concern with a proposed rule that would require drug manufacturers to include the value of cost-sharing assistance when calculating the best drug price. Many patients rely on these programs and the fear is the proposal could cause manufacturers to discontinue offering patient assistance programs.

Drug Affordability in Virginia

As Virginia's Prescription Drug Affordability Work Group begins work, the National Grange and several patient groups recommended steps to the Virginia legislature to limit out-of-pocket cost exposure. These include:
• Directly address patient out-of-pocket cost in the form of high deductibles and co-insurance
• Pass rebate savings directly to patients at the pharmacy counter
• Increase access to biosimilars

Reconsider International Pricing Index

On July 24 the President signed an Executive Order the National Grange fears will import price controls and restrictive health care systems from foreign countries. The Grange issued a statement urging the Administration to reconsider this proposal, saying there are better ways to cut drug costs (a high priority for the Grange). The fear is that the Index will not directly reduce out-of -pocket costs for patients but instead restrict patient access to essential treatments and medication.

Telecommunications

Digital Divide is a Top Priority

In a recent interview with Washington newsletter Agri-Pulse, Federal Communications Chairman Pai reiterated that closing the digital divide is his top priority. The Commission is moving forward with its Rural Digital Opportunity Fund to build high-speed internet in underserved areas with speeds of no less than 25 megabits per second download and 3 megabits per second upload. The Chairman saluted the 785 companies that took the Keep Americans Connected pledge that waived internet fees and provided Wi-Fi hotspots during the pandemic lockdown.

Accurate Mapping Key to Closing Digital Divide

Accurate maps showing unserved and underserved broadband areas are a must to closing the digital divide. The National Grange issued a statement urging Congress to fully fund the Broadband DATA Act which passed with strong bipartisan support earlier this year. The Act will provide more precise mapping data about broadband coverage of unserved and underserved communities.

National Suicide Prevention Hotline

The National Grange issued a statement commending the Federal Communications Commission for establishing the 988 National Suicide Prevention Hotline. The Grange said this easy to remember number will help individuals across America who are depressed and contemplating suicide. The suicide rate in Rural America is more than 30 percent higher than in urban areas, and our farmers, ranchers and agricultural workers suffer higher rates of suicide than nearly any other profession.

Perspective

This nation will remain the land of the free only so long as it is the home of the brave. ~ Elmer Davis
True independence and freedom can only exist in doing what's right. ~ Brigham Young
The first of earthly blessings, independence. ~ Edward Gibbon
There is often as much independence in not being led as in not being driven. ~ Tryon Edwards
Those who deny freedom to others deserve it not for themselves. ~ Abraham Lincoln
Independence is happiness. ~ Susan B. Anthony

Feedback and questions are welcome. Call Burton Eller, at (202) 628-3507 ext. 114 or email beller@nationalgrange.org




HAPPY JUNIOR GRANGE MONTH!

July 24, 2020



President’s Message: Action needed on support of whole milk in schools

By Betsy E. Huber, National Grange President

I hope you all received our Action Alert last week about the national dietary guidelines report, when we asked you to request Congress to delay release of the 2020–25 Guidelines to allow more time to study updated scientific reports.

The Congress and the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee did not heed our requests and released their report last Wednesday. It includes good news and bad news— Good news: Americans need more dairy in their diets. Regular dairy consumption offers essential nutrition throughout peoples’ lives. Bad news: 88% of all Americans and 79% of children fall short of dairy consumption recommendations.

Good news: The committee recognized milk as a nutrient-rich beverage that contributes positively to potassium, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, vitamins A & D and others.

Bad news: Low-fat and nonfat dairy foods are recommended. The committee failed to recognize newer science that shows the benefits of dairy foods at all fat levels.

Good news: Yogurt and cheese and eggs are recognized as healthy options for infants and toddlers.

Bad news: consumption of red meat is still discouraged in favor of a plant-based diet. The report of the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee is a recommendation to the USDA and the Department of Health & Human Services. The agencies are accepting written public comment on the report through August 13, 2020, and will hold a virtual public meeting to hear comments August 11, 2020. USDA and HHS intend to release the 2020–2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans by the end of December 2020.

You can still comment on the report by clicking on the comment link above and typing in the information. These Guidelines are very influential in the National School Lunch Program and the SNAP (food stamp) program, so please make your voice heard! National Grange policy strongly supports allowing whole milk to be served in schools.

Regional Contests Go Virtual; Winners Announced

By Mandy Bostwick, National Grange Youth Leadership Development Director

Regional contests had a definite different look and feel this year.

In Mid-May President Betsy Huber canceled National Grange Staff travel and strongly urged the states that were hosting the regional conferences this year to cancel the in-person conferences. Each of the states felt that it was in their best interest, during the ongoing pandemic, to cancel. While regionals was cancelled across the U.S. President Huber did postpone the rotation of host states to give the state another chance to host in 2021.

National Junior Director, Samantha Wilkins, and I worked to put together a contingency plan for Grangers in all regions to still have the opportunity to compete in the Youth/Young Adult or Junior Prepared Speech contest, Sign-a-Song contests, and Junior short story contest.

View Prepared Speech Winners#1

View Prepared Speech Winners #2

View Prepared Speech Winners #3

View Sign-a-Song contests

A new category this year was also held for those Youth/Young Adult members applying to be their state Ambassador or Young Patron representative. This is a new stipulation for anyone that is applying for National Youth Ambassador or Young Patron.

We had several Grangers from the regions compete in the various categories and present their speeches to the judges via Zoom. Best of Show winners were selected from each region and will present at the modified National Grange Evening of Excellence in November.

Our second annual Grange Baseball tournament for, Juniors and Youth/Young Adults, will be held sometime in September with sign ups starting in August. Full rules and virtual modifications will be released at the time of sign up. We look forward to hosting Grange

Baseball in the near future, so get ready to ball!

Summer issue of Good Day! will Start to Arrive in subscribers’ Mailboxes next week; Digital Editions and Subscription option now available.

The Summer issue of Good Day! is off the press and in the mail. Subscribers on the East Coast should begin seeing the issue in their mailbox around the first of next week.

This issue features the work of many Granges around the country doing things to help their community in a time of the COVID crisis. The main feature uses the 100th Anniversary of women’s suffrage to tell a story about the movement, the Grange’s involvement and engagement with the issue and the Grange’s own policy of inclusion that helped embolden some well-known suffrage advocates along the way. Written by member Carolyn Ostrander, who did her doctoral research on women in the Grange and the Grange’s greater contributions to American society, the piece also helped to inspire the newest Junior Passport looking at women’s suffrage with a fun activity that all Granges could enjoy.

Also, when you get your copy, you will see a five-digit code above your mailing address. You can use this code to check your Good Day! subscription by going to nationalgrange.org/goodday and clicking on “Verify my Subscription.”

You will see when your subscription is set to expire and be able to renew right from that page. If you are an active subscriber and do not receive your Summer 2020 issue by mid-August, you should first alert your local postmaster that you are a subscriber to a magazine called Good Day! and you expect it to be delivered when sent. It is not a catalog that should be held by USPS indefinitely. Then, you can contact National Grange Communications Director Amanda Brozana Rios who can arrange for a replacement if necessary.

Until now, the magazine has been available as a print-only publication through its first 12 issues. However, all issues, including the new 13th edition of the magazine, are all now available for purchase and to read on digital-readers, tablets or your computer. “Don’t worry,” Brozana Rios said. “Print isn’t going anywhere. We’re committed to continuing to publish a print edition of the magazine for all who don’t have the internet or prefer to read a physical paper product rather than on-screen.”

She said both print and digital subscriptions are $16 annually and physical copies of current or back-issues of the magazine are $5 plus shipping, while back-issues or single-copy sales of the digital version are $5 with no shipping charge.

Brozana Rios said anyone can subscribe to the digital version directly through the site – issuu.com/grangegoodday – noting that digital subscriptions are not handled by the National Grange staff.

“All aspects of the digital edition are handled through the website, including paying for the single-issue copies or subscriptions for future editions,” Brozana Rios said. She also stressed that print subscribers could not switch to a digital subscription for the remainder of their subscription. “These are two totally different services with the same highquality end-product to the consumer,” Brozana Rios said. “If at the end of your print subscription, you’d like to have a digital subscription instead, you can go directly to the website to sign-up, but because these are two different systems, we cannot make a change midsubscription.” Brozana Rios said many Granges voted to purchase a subscription for their Grange, and because of that, the department is making available to any active subscriber with an email address on file the digital edition of the Spring 2020 and Summer 2020 issues so they can share copies with their members in a timely fashion if they are unable to meet in person.

She said in the coming week, active subscribers who have provided their email address will receive an email with a link to the digital editions and information on how to access using that link. The link includes a free code, she said, so there is no need to pay for something the Grange has already purchased. If you are a subscriber and do not receive information by August 1, please contact Brozana Rios at communications@nationalgrange.org and you will receive a reply with the information once your subscription has been verified.

“We hope this helps our Granges stay connected and they appreciate our efforts to ensure good stewardship of their financial resources,” Brozana Rios said. “Some members may get to see the magazine at length for the first time and decide they’d like to subscriber to the print issue for themselves or maybe to the digital version.” Brozana Rios stressed that subscribers can share with their fellow members this link and details on how to access.

“If your Grange has subscribed, we want them to get what they paid for. We also encourage you to use these two issues to show off what it means to be a Grange and why Grange membership is such a joy by sharing the link with those you would otherwise share a print copy with – friends, neighbors, those you’ve asked to join your Grange recently,” Brozana Rios said. “As things return to normal, we will not be widely sharing this access and will require that people subscribe and receive either their own digital access code or subscribe to the print edition, but until then, we hope this is something that can help keep our Grange family together and proud of their membership.”

Brozana Rios said for those who have not subscribed in the past or whose subscriptions have lapsed can purchase a single print copy of the magazine by contacting Loretta at sales@nationalgrange.org or by phone at (202) 628-3507 ext. 109. They can also purchase the single-issue of Summer 2020 Good Day! magazine, back issues or subscribe and receive as their first issue the Summer 2020 edition by going to issuu.com/grangegoodday today. “This is great for someone who hasn’t been a subscriber for very long – you can see back-issues and purchase them digitally or you can figure out what issue you missed and contact Loretta to buy a print copy of ones missing from your collection,” Brozana Rios said.



Date All times Eastern

Tuesday, July 28 @ 7 p.m. Introduction to using Instagram for your Grange with Johanna Huber

Wednesday, July 29 @ 3 p.m. Legislative Update by Burton Eller

Thursday, July 30 @ 3 p.m. Bryce Danko, Junior Ambassador, on fire safety All livestreams are sponsored by Grange Foundation and available at any time after the close of the event at facebook.com/nationalgrange/video or at youtube.com/nationalgrange. If you have suggestions or questions, contact Amanda at communications@nationalgrange.org

VIRTUAL MEMBERSHIP WORKSHOPS, OPEN TO ALL, TO BE HELD

By Joe Stefenoni, National Grange Membership and Leadership Development Director

The first two virtual membership programs “Growth Through Action: Planning the Future for Your Community Grange.” Will be presented on Saturday August 15 & Saturday September 19. Each program will be presented as a Zoom webinar and will begin at 12:30 p.m. eastern (11:30 a.m. central, 10:30 a.m. mountain, 9:30 a.m. pacific) and last approximately three hours including a short break in the middle.

Participants will be emailed the accompanying worksheet the day before. A feedback survey will be sent to participants after the webinar has concluded.

This program is excellent for Community Grange members are leaders who are interested in taking the first steps of strategic planning for their Grange and sparking new ideas for membership development. The material from this program has been developed based off previous internal strategic planning materials, information and recommendations from the Action Grange program and curriculums from external sources.

To register follow this link https://form.jotform.com/202015073739147

MEMBER BENEFITS: CVS Caremark

RX Pharmacy Card provided by CVS Caremark (also for pet prescriptions) –program offers the RxSavings Plus Card, a NO FEE exclusive benefit to National Grange members that is not offered to the public. The RXSavings Card allows members to go to almost any pharmacy. Unlike other savings plans, the CVS-Caremark program applies to 99% of prescription drugs. Save on Lipitor, Viagra, Plavix, high blood pressure medications and thousands more—even pet medications! For the Rx Card Program, go to http://nationalgrange.rxsavingsplus.com. If your pet has been prescribed a medication, you may get a discount with the RxSavingPlus Prescription Discount Card at a participating pharmacy. During your pet’s examination and ask if the treatment plan they are recommending includes medications that are also used to treat human conditions If so, you can request a written prescription from your veterinarian instead of the veterinarian clinic providing the medications.



The Covid-19 pandemic has changed the way of life for just about everyone. It has been especially difficult for organizations such as the Grange, for whom the social aspects of our Order are such a big part of what we are.

Featured here is how one Grange has dealt with the restrictions of social distancing, and meeting. North Fork Grange in Trinity Co. held it regular meeting at the Junction City Park, outside with everyone being at least 6 feet apart.

When adversity strikes... Start by doing what's necessary; then do what's possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible. -Francis of Assisi



The North Fork held their July meeting at the Junction City park with social distancing and masks in place member Colleen Ryberg provide information about the ongoing census in Trinity County. Many decisions had to be made which included canceling the annual Harvest Festival and other planned events.



If your Grange has a story on how it is dealing with the adversity from Covid-19, please let us know.
Contact Us - Click envelope!




JULY 17, 2020


PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE: Granges Encouraged to Use Trusted Merchandise Supplier

By Betsy E. Huber, National Grange President

National Grange has recently renewed our sales agreement with Monroe Classic for another year. They remain the exclusive supplier to the National Grange of Grange branded items, and the recommended supplier of all Grange branded items for State, Pomona, and Community Granges.

If your Grange is planning a fundraiser of t-shirts, coffee mugs, water bottles, backpacks, jewelry, sweatpants, pens, or any other items you can think of, please contact Mike at Monroe Classic first. He will be happy to work with you on your design, colors, sizes, or even suggestions of popular items that will sell quickly and make a successful fundraiser.

If you’ve already contacted another vendor, give Mike a chance to meet or beat their price. He can supply any item you have in mind, usually at lesser cost, and your purchase from Monroe Classic will benefit National Grange since we receive a commission on all Grange items sold. Check out the possibilities at www.promoplace.com/grange, the Grange Store by Monroe Classic, and give Mike a call at 800-868-2330 or by email at mike@monroeclass.com.



Retractable Grip Pen - $ .75 ea Playing Cards - $8.00 ea Magnet - 4.25" W x 4.75"H, 03 thickness - $2.50 ea Stress Cell Phone Holder - $3.00 ea Stuffed Cow or Duck - $12.00 ea

Membership & Strategic Planning Training Goes Viral

By Joe Stefenoni Wilkins, National Grange Membership & Leadership Development Director

In a year that has been anything but typical, we have seen Community Granges all across the country embrace technology as a means of carrying on the good work of the Grange. A typical year for the National Grange Membership Director includes a calendar full of traveling to various states conducting programs to develop the membership efforts and leadership skills of Grange members.

Since current conditions have put a halt to these “normal” skill development activities, the National Grange Membership Department has been in the process of adapting training and resource material for presentation in a digital medium. Next month, the National Grange Membership Department will be launching a new workshop titled “Growth Through Action: Planning the Future for Your Community Grange”. The material from this program has been developed based off of previous internal strategic planning materials, information & recommendations from the Action Grange program and curriculums from external sources.

This will be presented using Zoom in a webinar format. Participants will need to pre-register and will receive a worksheet to accompany the material being presented. The webinar will be offered once a month with the first being in August, more may be added depending on interest. The registration link will be included in future issues of the Patrons Chain and posted on the National Grange’s Facebook page.

Other webinar trainings are being made available to State Granges, Community Granges and Grange members on officer duties and responsibilities, how to run a Community Grange meeting, parliamentary procedure and the role of a State Grange Deputy. Specialized programs can be requested as well.


Mon. July 20
@ 8:30 PM EDT
Good Day! Summer 2020 Issue Preview

Tues. July 21
@ 8:30 PM EDT
ZOOM: Membership Matters with Amanda Rios - a crash course on social media for your Grange (go to tiny.cc/1867zoom to log in or call 669-900-6833 and use access code 525-965-930)

Thurs. July 23
@ 3:00 PM EDT
Brianna Gervais, Junior Ambassador

Tues. July. 28
@ 7:00 PM EDT
Introduction to using Instagram for your Grange with Johanna Huber

All Cultivating Connections episodes can be found on our YouTube Channel starting at the time list for their live event and anytime thereafter. Check it out at www.youtube.com/nationalgrange Want to see a specific episode? Go to our website at www.nationalgrange.org/grange-videos to see all past episodes including descriptions. If you have suggestions or questions, contact Amanda at communications@nationalgrange.org.

MEMBER BENEFITS: American Hearing Benefits

American Hearing Benefits is a convenient hearing benefits program which provides access to free hearing consultations and significant discounts on hearing aids through our nationwide network of hearing professionals. To learn more call 1-888-461-3209 mentions National Grange or visit http://americanhearingbenefits.com/partners/grange




by Katie Squire, CA Grange Expo Director

This year, as a response to COVID 19, the 2020 California Grange Expo will be a virtual event. Entries will be accepted online, exhibits will be submitted using media files, judging will be conducted electronically, and entries will be displayed on the web. Entry deadline is midnight September 11, 2020. Late entries will not be accepted.

All still exhibit contests listed in the 2020 California Grange Expo Handbook will be open for entries. No entry or convenience fee is required. Still exhibits include art, crafts, creative writing, floriculture, memories, baking, canning, textiles, agriculture, photography, technology, and woodworking, with a special COVID Creations theme division, and miscellaneous division as well. If you can think of a class that doesn't include a live animal or physical performance, it is part of the Grange Expo.

To date over 50 of the 76 county fairs and festivals in California have been cancelled. Granges and members are encouraged to contact local 4-H Clubs, FFA Chapters, and other youth groups to offer their members, leaders, and families the opportunity to exhibit in the Expo as Guest Exhibitors through your sponsorship. This gives your community a chance to showcase their talents and lets them know the Grange values them and has their back. Please make sure that Guest Exhibitors know the Grange Name and Number and the new District Number before they enter.

Please share this information with all your members. If you have members in your Grange, or even a local group you plan to sponsor, who are interested in learning more about the 2020 Grange Expo and how to enter please contact me at Expo@CAStateGrange.org to set up an online meeting.

Click here to visit our website and get the 2020 Expo Book, 2020 Virtual Expo Info and link to Online Entry.





JULY 10, 2020


PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE: Use Time to Draft Resolutions

By Betsy E. Huber, National Grange President

In spite of all the time we have at home now, this summer is flying by as rapidly as ever! I can’t believe we are nearing the middle of July already, even though we haven’t had any Grange meetings, activities, regional meetings, or fairs. I’ve been trying to keep up with Grange business and keep up with the weeds in the garden and the zucchini which is now producing prolifically! I love summer.

I want to congratulate those State Granges who are being proactive and courageous in making changes to their State Sessions for the fall. Several have decided to have virtual sessions—a brave decision to try something new, in order to protect their members. Others have scaled down their plans to one day for delegates only, just to take care of elections and resolutions. If National Grange staff can assist you in any way, please don’t hesitate to contact me. We want to help you be successful.

I encourage you to use some of your at-home time to draft resolutions on issues of concern to you. We have been dwelling on COVID and lack of broadband internet for four months, but surely there are other matters that need attention that we should be working on. Just be sure to check our present policy to see if we have already addressed the issue. You can find it on the website in the 2019 Journal of Proceedings which is under Member Resources. Just because our sessions are shortened doesn’t mean we can’t set new policy on important issues and make those sessions worthwhile.

As your Granges start to get together in person again, remember to stay six feet apart, wear masks, and don’t share food. We need you all to stay healthy and get through this year so 2021 will be greater than ever!

More recently we have received a call to action from the American Dairy Coalition in regards to whole milk in schools. The National Grange policy states that we strongly support whole milk as part of a well-balanced school nutrition program. However, the USDA-HHS Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee, as they draft the latest Dietary Guidelines for America, may not be considering recent scientific evidence on the benefits of saturated fats and the healthy role they play.

We encourage you to review the information from the American Dairy Coalition, provided below, then contact your Senators and Representative and ask them to delay the Dietary Guidelines report until all pertinent scientific dietary information is thoroughly considered by the Committee.

CALL TO ACTION
(information provided by the American Dairy Coalition)

The Dietary Guidelines for America (DGA) sets our nation's leading nutrition policies. They directly influence WIC, SNAP, and school lunch programs, shaping the tastes and preferences of the next generation of consumers. The DGA is used by physicians, nutritionists, dietitians, and other health professionals to "promote good health, prevent chronic disease and help Americans reach a healthy weight." By law, the guidelines are required to be updated every five years by USDA and Health and Human Services to incorporate the latest research and advancements in nutritional sciences.

Why This Matters Today

The DGA program was introduced in 1980, yet public health has steadily declined in the 40 years since implementation. Childhood obesity and diabetes diagnoses have tripled, adult obesity rates have doubled, and 25 million American adults have diabetes. The current guidelines are not working. Despite criticism from top professional groups of experts, the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee refuses to address serious allegations regarding the flawed process used to update the guidelines.

In 2015, Congress commissioned a third party review completed by the National Academy of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine (NASEM), at a cost of $1M to taxpayers. The purpose was to evaluate the process used to update the very influential and far-reaching guidelines. However, the majority of recommendations from NASEM have been ignored in the proposed 2020 DGA draft.

What Science Says

The Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee continues to place caps on saturated fats, despite clear evidence this is not supported by the latest research. These caps limit whole milk and butter in consumers' diets in exchange for low fat dairy or plant-based beverages and meat substitutes. Recent studies suggest again and again that regular consumption of full fat milk products promotes a healthy weight and lower risk of obesity, as well as reduces the risk of osteoporosis, diabetes and hypertension. Continuing to ignore the latest evidence is harmful to the health of the nation, particularly children.

ADC supports the CHOICE of offering whole milk in all daycare and school nutrition programs. Science concludes that full fat dairy products not only improve nutrition, but also learning readiness and satiety, especially for those most nutritionally at-risk. It is vital to increase dairy product consumption domestically as well as internationally by increasing consumption of full fat milk products.

What Can You Do?

Congress must intervene to ensure the publication is updated in the guidelines and includes recent scientific evidence on the benefits of saturated fats and the healthy role they play. Americans deserve a comprehensive redesign of the flawed Dietary Guidelines process. Congress must take a look at the potential conflicts of interest that members of the Subcommittee on Dietary Fats may have. We cannot allow those who have a stake in groups advocating vegan and vegetarian lifestyles to control the fate of American diets or dictate the continued exclusion of healthy, insulin-moderating fats in the nutrient dense food that our dairy farmers produce each and every day.

ADC is asking for your help. Contact your elected representatives and ask them to delay the report by the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee to ensure USDA and HHS have adequate time to review and address the flawed process and implement recommendations from NASEM. Demand the caps on saturated fat be removed so that schools once again have the ability to provide students with whole milk. Americans deserve sound science that promotes healthy choices. We cannot afford to wait five more years to get this right.

July is Time to Celebrate Junior Grange

By Samantha Wilkins, National Junior Grange Director

We know that during the pandemic we have been limited from many things that would have usually filled our summers, like Junior Grange camps and other activities. We hope that even through this pandemic you have still found a way to celebrate your Junior Granges.

During the month of July we take the time to honor the legacy of the Junior Grange, a sector of our organization that was created 132 years ago. We hope that you will take the time this month to reflect on your Junior Grange memories and share them with current Juniors.

We also want to encourage you to take part in the Junior Grange contests. It’s OK, even if you are no longer a Junior because we know you are truly still one at heart. That’s why we created the Junior at Heart contest, for all of us ‘has-beens’ or ‘wannabes’ to still have the opportunity to be a part of something great. Take this time to participate in these contests with the Juniors in your lives.

Junior Grangers this year have had the opportunity to focus on Agriculture and our Environment- We hope that you make time to join us every Thursday through the month of July at 3 pm for the Junior Take over on our web-series ‘Cultivating Connections’. This take over will be done by National Junior Grange Ambassadors Brianna Gervais and Bryce Danko as they dive into how agriculture and the environment work together.

Remember in order to continue the legacy of the Junior Grange we count on you to help us. Through the National Grange Foundation you can always donate to the Junior Fund. This fund works to create new programming and opportunities for Junior Grangers across the nation. For more information, contact National Junior Grange Director Samantha Wilkins at junior@nationalgrange.org.

CHECK OUT OUR NEW JUNIOR GRANGE ITEMS

Youth & Adult Size "WHERE THE BEST MEMORIES ARE MADE" T-shirts, Insulated Brown Paper Lunch Bags, 12-Piece Colored Pencils (Set of 12) and Pro Rib Knit Caps with Cuff (Beanies). Polo Shirts, Baby Bibs, Onezies and Buttons on Closeout.

CLICK HERE TO SEE THESE ITEMS







Reflect on Your Grange's Value to Community

By Pete Pompper, National Grange Community Service Director

With all the turmoil affecting our country right now (no need listing them here as we are all well aware) it got me thinking of how the Grange is a constant for stability and hope in our communities. When I have had the opportunity to take part in Zoom meetings held by Granges throughout the nation, I realize more all the time how much our communities value us.

I ask that you reflect on your Grange. For the most part our Granges have been part of our communities for a long time; for us they have always been there. For the lucky few Granges that have charter members still around, we need to honor them and talk to them about who gave back to our towns before the Grange was organized there.

I know my home Grange, Fenwick #20 in Harmersville, New Jersey, has been around nearly 150 years. The Grange Hall has been at its present location nearly as long. Everyone living in the township knows where the Hall is because it has been there as a stable location. People remember the Grange for all we have done and continue to do to help the residents of the township. Whether it was for the fundraising dinners (ham and cabbage, clam pie or strawberry shortcake- my favorite), scholarships at the high school and the various other community service programs we have done, our resident knew the Grange was involved. Our Grange also became a place where if residents needed help they could ask a Grange member and it would be taken care of in a heartbeat. Granges are amazing that way whether they are small or large, rural or suburban they stand as a stable force in communities across the US.

As the Grange we need to be proud of the community service work we do and reflect on the positive impacts we have created in our communities. I know I used to find the oldest copies of the community service books my Grange owned and would often read through to reflect on what members accomplished in the earlier years, and how we keep some of those projects alive today. Watching the Grange react to current community needs as well as organize much needed relief programs in the midst of COVID 19 has been refreshing as we are truly acting out our community missions.

In the midst of all this chaos I ask that you keep track of your community service projects including numbers that reflect how many people you have served and the quantities of what you have given to the community. Granges will be receiving from my Department a form asking for this information. While we on a local level don’t like to brag about what we do, on a national level it is important that we highlight our accomplishments. These numbers reported and the data given will be valuable information for Granges applying for grants post COVID 19 as well as for other grants that may arise. This information also helps us at the National Grange Level when speaking with other national organizations, federal departments and legislators on Capitol Hill.

I cannot thank each and every Grange and Grange member enough for all you do and all you have done to make the Grange a beacon of hope and stability in your communities--one where residents can go to for help, a home cooked dinner or some local entertainment. A moment where they can forget the troubles of the day for a few hours and sit in community. That is what we are and who we are, so be proud and be loud about your accomplishments.


Cultivating Connections Returns

By Amanda Brozana Rios, National Grange Communications & Development Director

As we prepared for and recovered from the celebration of our nation’s independence, Cultivating Connections took a short break, allowing our presenters to enjoy vacations. This week, we are back with a limited schedule and ramping up for another busy week online starting July 13.

For Junior Grange Month, our Ambassadors are planning weekly take-overs of the show. On Thursday, July 9, National Junior Grange Ambassador Brianna Gervais gave a live presentation on soil erosion. Next week, Bryce Danko will present on composting.

Tues. July 14
• @ 6:30 PM EDT
• Vermont State Grange hosts BINGO

Wed. July 15
• @ 3:00 PM EDT
• National Grange Interns and how the internship program helps grow member services and our brand

Wed. July 15
• @ 6:30 PM EDT
• Pennsylvania State Grange hosts BINGO

Thurs. July 16
• @ 3:00 PM EDT
• Bryce Danko, Jr. Ambassador, on Composting

Sat. July. 18
• @ 8:30 PM EDT
• Trivia Night with the Grange

Mon. July 20
• @ 8:30 PM EDT
• Good Day! Summer 2020 Issue Preview

All Cultivating Connections episodes can be found on our YouTube Channel starting at the time list for their live event and anytime thereafter. Check it out at www.youtube.com/nationalgrange Want to see a specific episode? Go to our website at www.nationalgrange.org/grange-videos to see all past episodes including descriptions. If you have suggestions or questions, contact Amanda at communications@nationalgrange.org.

GUEST EDITORIAL : Time is Now for Washington to End Digital Divide for Students

By Allen Pratt, Executive Director of National Rural Education Association

Reprinted with Permission

Students and school districts had to adjust dramatically this spring as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The transition from face-to-face education to remote learning was challenging enough given how quickly it had to be enacted, but, for many districts in rural areas, the transition was made nearly impossible by a lack of broadband connectivity in students’ homes.

Students and school districts had to adjust dramatically this spring as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The transition from face-to-face education to remote learning was challenging enough given how quickly it had to be enacted, but, for many districts in rural areas, the transition was made nearly impossible by a lack of broadband connectivity in students’ homes.

In Michigan alone, there are 816,000 people without access to broadband internet and 27 counties were at least one-third of residents cannot access true broadband speeds at home. In rural counties like Luce and Montmorency, broadband is virtually non-existent, with broadband being available to just 1.5% and 0.4% of residents, respectively.

That digital divide, which leaves more than 40 million Americans nationwide without access to broadband internet, was already an acute problem for rural educators and students before the pandemic crisis — and has been made a challenge in need of a far more urgent response by the virus.

There are more than 9.7 million students enrolled in rural schools across the country, many of whom lack access to broadband at home. At the same time, pre-COVID-19, more than 70% of teachers assign homework that requires a broadband connection. In ordinary times, that homework gap left too many rural students at a disadvantage that had an impact not only on their educational outcomes, but on their optimism.

A recent poll from the National 4-H Council and Microsoft found that one in six rural teens said they have no access to broadband internet, and another 22% have internet that is only sometimes reliable. The survey found those who lacked broadband internet were less confident about their future and their ability to acquire the kind of job they wanted.

In the 21st century, Michigan students shouldn’t be prevented from achieving their full potential by a lack of access to a necessity like broadband internet that has become as indispensable as electricity to the modern classroom and workplace.

That is why, in the short weeks of summer before school reconvenes in the fall, Washington must take bold and immediate action to completely eliminate the digital divide.

Congress needs to work to allocate funds to those unserved and underserved areas where the challenge is the most acute to support broadband deployments that are technology neutral, cost effective, reliable and which can be quickly deployed. Students in our rural communities cannot wait another five years for broadband connectivity. They need it now.

Those resources must be neutral toward the technology, because, while fiber is the gold standard for speeds, it can also be prohibitively expensive to deploy in rural areas and can rapidly deplete dollars dedicated to broadband deployments, if not paired with innovative wireless solutions that deliver true broadband speeds in hybrid network deployments.

In addition to allocating funding to deploy service in rural areas, Congress must also ensure communities don’t get missed.

That is why lawmakers must also fully fund the bipartisan Broadband DATA Act, a law passed by Congress and signed into law by the president earlier this year. The measure will update how the Federal Communications Commission maps the digital divide to ensure accurate data.

Lawmakers should be commended for passing this important fix, but they must finish the job by funding this legislation so the FCC can implement the changes and better guide public investments to tackle the broadband gap.

In a couple of months, schools will start back up again, and, while many educators are still unsure exactly how learning will look — we know with certainty that it will require access to broadband internet for students to reach their full potential and succeed.

It’s important for Washington to act now to close the digital divide.

MEMBER BENEFITS: 20% off Harvest Hosts Membership for RV-ers

Grange members can now enjoy 20% off their membership with Harvest Hosts, which has more than 825 partner sites across the U.S. and Canada that allow members with RVs to stay one night free on the property of an agriculturally-oriented business. In addition to the ag-based destinations, individuals can add to their membership the “+ golf” option that droppable-1594329019368droppable-1594328973727includes more than 350 golf courses.

There is an app associated with Harvest Hosts that provides maps of the destinations, trip routing and planning and much more. Members of Harvest Hosts can also enjoy other RV-oriented savings. Grange members with RVs are encouraged to check out Harvest Hosts at harvesthosts.com and use the code GRANGE at checkout.

PEOPLE, PRIDE AND PROGRESS

125 YEARS OF THE GRANGE IN AMERICA

Written by David H. Howard, this 1992 text is an excellent resource for everyone interested in Grange history.

ONLY $6 + shipping

ORDER NOW!



Order your copy online through the Grange Supply Store at grangestore.com or by calling Loretta at (202) 628-3507 Ext. 109

The National Grange HQ | 1616 H St. NW, Washington, DC 20006 | (202) 628-3507
Publisher Betsy Huber, National Grange President - Email | Phone: (484) 459-1957
Editor Amanda Brozana Rios, Communications Director - Email | Phone (301) 943-1090
Membership Recognition, Sales & Benefits - Loretta Washington - Email | Phone: (202) 628-3507 Ext. 109
Grange Websites, Emails & Member Database - Stephanie Wilkins - Email | Phone: (202) 628-350 Ex. 101
Leadership\Membership - Joseph Stefenoni - Email | Phone: (707) 328-0631
Lecturer - Chris Hamp - Email | Phone: (509) 953-3533 Community Service - Pete Pompper - Email | Phone: (609) 820-6239
Legislative and Policy Issues - Burton Eller - Email | Phone: (202) 628-3507 Ext. 114
Grange Youth - Mandy Bostwick - Email | Phone: (785) 250-7606
Junior Grange - Samantha Wilkins - Email | Phone: (210) 838-7892



June 2020

Click on article title to open or close article.

145th Annual Session of the California State Grange - Submitting Resolutions

October 3 & 4, 2020, Orangevale, CA

Arrangements for the 145th Annual Session of the California State Grange are moving ahead and one important part of the Session is Resolution Processing. Below are (1) deadlines for submitting Resolutions; (2) how to submit on-line or by email; and (3) being part of the Resolution Committee. Resolutions must be voted on by your Grange in an in-person or on-line meeting and be reflected in the Secretary's minutes of that meeting.

Dates and Deadlines

Resolutions to Amend the State Grange ByLaws Saturday July 25, 2020:

Resolutions to amend the State Grange By-Laws must be received by end of business. August 1, 2020: Date By-law amendments will be mailed to the Master & Secretary of the Community/Subordinate and Pomona Granges per the 30-day prior notice written in the bylaws.

All other Resolutions

Tuesday, September 1, 2020

All other Resolutions must be received. Saturday September 6, 2020

All resolutions will be submitted to the Resolution Committees to begin their work.

Submitting Resolutions

On-line Submission

The Grange Secretary, or designated person, may submit Resolutions on-line through the California State Grange Website (Click here to submit resolutions). You may submit multiple resolutions by uploading a document or copy/paste the text in to the form.

Email Submission

You may submit resolutions by email to the State Grange Secretary at LBooth@CAStateGrange.org

Mailed Resolutions

Please mail to the State Grange Office at 3830 U Street, Sacramento, CA 95817. Please notify the State Grange Secretary by phone or email that these items are being mailed.

All resolutions will be acknowledged to confirm receipt.

RESOLUTION COMMITTEES - WE NEED YOU!

Resolution Committee Participation

The initial processing of resolutions begins with the Resolution Committees. This year, the Committee work will be done in an on-line conference platform before the State Session. Resolutions will be posted for the Committee members to access. Edits will be completed in committee and the final resolutions made available for the Convention/Annual Session.

We need your knowledge and expertise to help develop Grange policies. These are then moved forward in to legislation or activism.

Standing Resolution Committees are:

  • AGRICULTURE & WATER
  • AUDIT & BUDGET
  • CITIZENSHIP & TAXATION
  • CONSERVATION
  • EDUCATION & HEALTH
  • GRANGE LAW & GRANGE GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT
  • LABOR, JUDICIARY, & TRANSPORTATION

Please Click Here to submit your interest in participating on a Grange Resolution Committee.



JUNE 2020 WRAP-UP


Agriculture and Food

Food Prices Skyrocket While Farm Prices Nosedive

The cost of food from the grocery store bought to eat at home during the lockdown skyrocketed, rising the most in 46 years as the food supply chain struggled to get surplus farm commodities to the consumer. Restaurant carryout meals spiked as well. Analysts predict supermarket and restaurant customers should not expect prices to drop anytime soon. At the same time, farm gate earnings are expected to plunge for the foreseeable future without additional pandemic economic aid.

Congress Extends Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility

Congress overwhelmingly voted to increase from 8 to 24 weeks the amount of time businesses and farms are given to spend proceeds on qualified expenses in order to have their PPP loan forgiven. This extension was aggressively supported by the National Grange and producer organizations. Congress created the PPP in its CARES Act to help small businesses and farms survive the economic impacts the COVID-19 lockdown.

Grange: Include Ag Organizations in PPP

The National Grange is asking members of the Senate to extend Paycheck Protection Program eligibility to agricultural organizations as the Senate crafts a CARES 2 relief package. President Betsy Huber told Senators producers depend on their organizations for news, communication, advice, market intelligence, best practices and much more. Strong producer organizations will be in much better positions to assist members with their much-needed economic recovery and emotional support, she said.

Grange Asks for Trucking Relief

The National Grange and over 60 agricultural and food organizations are asking House members to support the FARM to TABLE Act (Joyce, R-PA). Joyce's bill will extend truckers' hours of service rule exemptions year-round for agricultural commodities within a 150-mile radius from the source of the commodity.

General Aviation Important to Rural Areas

The National Grange, joined by 15 other organizations, is asking Senate and House leadership to temporarily suspend fuel taxes for general aviation aircraft as Congress did for commercial airlines in their CARES Act. This can be accomplished in Congress' CARES 2 Act being crafted now. General aviation and local airports are a key economic driver for recovery in rural regions of the country.

Senators Support Small Plant Expansion

As the food supply chain begins to recover and meat processing plants return to capacity, there is a renewed push to expand small and local processing capacity. Nine Senators (Kramer R-ND, King D-ME, Rounds R-SD, Manchin D-WV, Daines R-MT, Smith D-MN, Barrasso R-WY, Tester D-MT , Enzi-WY) have cosponsored the bipartisan New Markets for State-Inspected Meat and Poultry Act which would allow state products which have been inspected by an approved (at least equal to federal standards) state inspection program to be sold interstate. Natiional Grange policy supports equal-to state inspection and subsequent interstate sales.

Five Million Food Boxes and Climbing

USDA's new Farmers to Families Food Box Program was designed to connect farmers and distributors to support food banks, community and faith-based organizations and other non-profits to those most in need across the country. Instead of destroying commodities that are not marketable, producers can sell directly to distributors of federally funded feeding programs. Five million food boxes had been distributed by early June.

The Environment

Waters of the U.S. Rule Goes into Effect

The new Navigable Waters Protection Rule went into effect in early June after a federal judge declined to block its implementation. The rule was widely supported by farmers, ranchers, landowners and others after an earlier 2015 rule was deemed to have overstepped congressional intent of the Clean Water Act and infringed upon private landowner rights. On the same day, a U.S. District judge in Colorado granted a preliminary injunction to prevent the rule from going into effect there.

Senate Bill Would Pay Farmers for Carbon Sequestration

A bipartisan Senate bill is garnering support that would give USDA a key role in overseeing voluntary agricultural carbon markets. Lead sponsors are Braun (R-IN), Stabenow (D-MI), Graham (R-SC) and Whitehouse (D-RI). The Growing Climate Solutions Act would create a USDA system for certifying third-party verifiers and technical assistance providers. Farmers and ranchers could receive assistance and incentives for implementing practices which reduce carbon emissions on their operations. In addition, they could sell excess carbon credits to commercial firms who exceed their carbon emission cap. During a Senate Agriculture Committee hearing on June 24, the bill appeared to have broad support among committee members.

Health Care

Extend Medicare Enrollment

The National Grange joined a large number of patient advocate groups to urge the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services at the Department of Health and Human Services to extend special enrollment and premium relief flexibilities for Medicare. These extensions are necessary to ensure access to coverage for older Americans during the remainder of the COVID-19 crisis.

Widespread Testing Helps Halt Outbreaks

Meat processing plants have been among the country's worst coronavirus hot spots. It is typical for large numbers of employees to work in close proximity under one roof. Across the industry, thousands of workers became infected and hundreds died. But rapid rollout of testing in those plants could offer guidance to other businesses to emulate as they try to re-open. Processing plant workers who test positive have to isolate themselves and if no symptoms appear, they can return to work. This testing and isolation along with face shields, social distancing in common areas, and plastic dividers to separate workers on production lines seems to have paid off with big reductions in coronavirus cases.

Infrastructure

Infrastructure Next on House Agenda

On June 22, House Democrats introduced H.R. 2, The Moving Forward Act, a major 2,300-page infrastructure bill. Key items in the legislation include:


• $500 billion to rebuild transportation infrastructure
• $100 billion for affordable housing
• $30 billion for hospital upgrades
• $25 billion for safe drinking water systems
• $70 billion to transform the electric grid to better accommodate renewable energy
• $100 billion for high speed broadband to unserved and underserved communities
• $130 billion for high-poverty school infrastructure
• Funding for the Postal Service

Infrastructure Outlook

President Trump is pushing for a $1 trillion spending package to boost the struggling economy. Senate Republicans are warning that the President's proposal and the House bill are too rich and would be a heavy lift for the Senate. Senate Majority McConnell warns of the impact of the surging federal deficit on future generations and instead would like to pass a five-year reauthorization of the Highway Trust Fund.

Telecommunications

Broadband Mapping is Priority

National Grange president Betsy Huber wrote members of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee to again urge members to commit full funding to create more precise broadband maps through the Broadband DATA Act. Current broadband mapping cannot accurately depict the underserved areas of rural America for effective broadband deployment investment. The Grange letter was in advance of the June 24 Committee oversight hearing with all five Federal Communications Commissioners.

Grange Participates in Broadband Briefing

National Grange president Betsy Huber was a panelist on a virtual briefing hosted by the Connect Americans Now coalition. The briefing focused on the urgency to address the digital divide, the progress that has been made to clear regulatory hurdles, and actions Congress can take to allocate funding to most rapidly and cost-effectively close the broadband gap. Other panelists included the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, American Farm Bureau, National Rural Education Association, and Student Veterans of America.

Perspective

Vision without execution is just hallucination. ~ Henry Ford

Where there is no vision, there is no hope. ~ George Washington Carver

Vision is the art of seeing what is invisible to others. ~ Jonathan Swift

Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today and creates a vision for tomorrow. ~ Melody Beattie

Champions are made from something they have deep inside them - a desire, a dream, a vision. ~ Muhammad Ali

Every moment is a golden one for him who has the vision to recognize it as such. ~ Henry Miller

Feedback and questions are welcome. Call Burton Eller, at (202) 628-3507 ext. 114 or email beller@nationalgrange.org




JUNE 19, 2020




PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE: A Step Toward Normalcy

By Betsy Huber, National President

Greetings from your National Grange Headquarters, where we are beginning to welcome staff back at least part-time. We still hear peaceful demonstrations in the street every afternoon, but some of the plywood protection has been removed from store fronts nearby and things are very slowly opening up again, even though the pandemic continues.

It is still a strange time! While some Granges are again holding in person meetings outdoors or with social distancing, many State Granges are making plans for state sessions with delegates only in attendance. Some are brainstorming totally virtual sessions in case that becomes necessary this fall. You will need to do what your state’s Governor requires and what your own members feel comfortable with. My own Pomona is planning a July 11 picnic meeting outdoors, with social distancing and boxed lunches—no shared food! If you do decide to meet, just be wise and careful and protect our more vulnerable members.

Meanwhile, most fairs, festivals, and parades have been cancelled and it looks like it will be a quiet, peaceful summer—although time seems to be flying by as quickly as ever. Your National Grange staff and directors have been busy setting up contingency plans for contests and programs to replace the Regional conferences and National Convention activities.

And now that you have more time at home, I expect lots more entries in all our contests! The Youth sponsored Public Speaking and Sign-a-Song Contests deadlines have passed, but there’s still plenty of time for quilt blocks, photography, and Community Service notebooks. Be sure to complete your Distinguished Grange application by August 1. If you have generations of family in the Grange, check out the Grange Legacy Family application on the website and have your family recognized with a certificate of appreciation. And there’s still time to practice that talent to perform in the Evening of Excellence.

Be sure to stay tuned for announcements about the daily Cultivating Connections programs and any announcements about your State Grange Sessions and other activities. Enjoy the wonderful summer weather!

Lecturer's Photo Contest Update

The Photography Showcase of the Best of Show winners from each State Grange at National Convention has been canceled. In its place will be a Virtual Photography Contest – open to ALL members and non-members, regardless of age.

ENTRY FORM

Improvise, Adapt, Overcome

By Joe Stefenoni, National Grange Membership & Leadership Development Director

The United States Marine Corps says that all Marines are “trained to improvise, adapt and overcome any obstacle in whatever situation they are needed.”

The evening of June 14th, Redwood Valley Grange #382 in Redwood Valley, California presented “Live at The Grange,” an evening of musical talent digitally broadcast. This Grange is fortunate to have a number of members who are professional musicians, performers and artists, so this event was a natural display of the time and talent available to the Grange. They also used this as an opportunity to connect with the community, explain the Grange mission & activities and ask for donations to further Grange projects. The event was broadcast on their website as well as on YouTube. This event is the prime example of a Community Grange adapting and overcoming the challenge of creating community engagement during COVID.

This event highlighted the special talents of the members at Redwood Valley Grange. All Granges across the country are filled with members who have special and unique talents to share with the wider community. During this time where Grange cannot meet and hold community activities like we are accustomed to, we should be looking at how we can improvise, adapt and overcome this particular challenge. Does your Grange have a wealth of musical talent like the Redwood Valley Grange? Are there artists of other mediums who could teach an art project on a zoom call? Can your Grange host a community forum about how to create community while remaining socially distanced?

Engagement with members and community is critical in normal times, but even more so during COVID. Community Granges have always been notable community centers for enlivening activities and events. At your next meeting (digital or socially distanced), take the time to map out a plan for an event that engages the community and shows how the Grange benefits both them and the community. This may even mean dusting off your grange.org website and updating social media. No matter how it looks, be ready to improvise from the way we’ve always done things, adapt to the current situation, and overcome the challenge we face.

For more information about Redwood Valley Grange, you can visit their website redwoodvalleygrange.com or Facebook page facebook.com/RVGrange/.

CHECK OUT OUR GRANGE YOUTH ITEMS!

Hooded Sweatshirts, Sweat Pants with Pockets, Sling Back Packs, Drawstring Back Packs, Magnetic Journals, Retro T-Shirts, Stainless Steel Tumblers, Pop Up Phone Stands, Stainless Steel Insulated Vacuum Bottles, Structured Contrasting Stitch Caps and Yowies® (Face Masks)!

Click Here To See These Items

MEMBER BENEFITS: 20% off Harvest Hosts Membership for RV-ers

Grange members can now enjoy 20% off their membership with Harvest Hosts, which has more than 825 partner sites across the U.S. and Canada that allow members with RVs to stay one night free on the property of an agriculturally-oriented business. In addition to the ag-based destinations, individuals can add to their membership the “+ golf” option that includes more than 350 golf courses.

There is an app associated with Harvest Hosts that provides maps of the destinations, trip routing and planning and much more. Members of Harvest Hosts can also enjoy other RV-oriented savings. Grange members with RVs are encouraged to check out Harvest Hosts at harvesthosts.com and use the code GRANGE at checkout.



Fri. June 19
@ 4:30 PM EDT
ASL/Deaf Culture: Lesson 11

Sat. June 20
@ 8:30 PM EDT
Date Night In 12.0

Sun. June 21
No Show Scheduled. Happy Father’s Day!

Mon. June 22
@ 2:30 PM EDT
Worth 1,000 Words: Importance of Photos & Great Pic Tips

Tues. June 23
@ 5:00 PM EDT
911 What’s your Emergency? How to be a good 911 reporter

Wed. June 24
@ 4:00 PM EDT
Legislative Update with Burton Eller


@ 7:00 PM EDT
BINGO with PA State Grange. Contact Lizzie at publicrelations@pagrange.org for details

Thurs. June 25
@ 5:00 PM EDT
Summer: The Grange’s Second Degree (ONLY IN FACEBOOK – GRANGE HERITAGE FORUM GROUP)

Fri., June 26


No program scheduled.

Sat. June 27
@ 8:30 PM EDT
Date Night In 13.0: Ode to Jr. Grange Camp!

All livestreams are sponsored by Grange Foundation and available at any time after the close of the event at facebook.com/nationalgrange/video or at youtube.com/nationalgrange. If you have suggestions or questions, contact Amanda at communications@nationalgrange.org



ALERT: YouTube Contest, “With Justice for All,” Seeks Submissions from Students About the Effect of Covid-19 and Recent Tragedies on Their Educational Experience

Prizes include 11 scholarships for students who best address the question, “How has your school delivered on the promise of equal access and educational excellence, particularly during these challenging times?”

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Center for Education Reform (CER), in partnership with the Freedom Coalition for Charter Schools, the Children’s Scholarship Fund, and the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools, today launched “With Justice for All,” a national YouTube contest for students.

Over the last few months, students and schools have faced significant challenges from distance learning and national tragedies. Times like these highlight how a great education is the most important asset a student has to effectively change the world.

So CER decided to ask students directly: Has your school delivered on the promise of equal access and educational excellence, particularly during these challenging times? Tell us how well your school did — or didn’t do — in providing you a great education.

“We want you to be able to take charge of your education,” said Jeanne Allen, CER’s founder and chief executive. “We want to assist you in writing the next chapter of your education story. Tell us your story, and we’ll tell everybody who needs to know, especially those in power.”

Videos must be shorter than three minutes, hashtagged with #MyEducationVideo, and submitted to MyEducationVideo.com by 11:59 PM EDT on July 4, 2020. Submissions will be evaluated by a panel of celebrity judges. Awards include 10 $2,500 scholarships — and one $20,000 scholarship — to the high school or college of a student’s choice. Winners will be announced during a live-streamed ceremony (date and time T.B.D.), and their videos may be shown to delegates at both of the 2020 national conventions this summer.

“We’ve designed this contest for students ages 13 and older, because we know it can be hard to get your ideas about education heard when you’re a kid,” said Allen.




June 16, 2020

Download to read this issue You will find in this issue the following articles:


   • Betsy Huber Interview

   • Editorial

   • Action Grange

   • State President’s Message

   • Overseer’s Station

   • Family Heritage Conf.

   • Who Is Your Deputy

   • Getting It Back

   • Taking Care of Grange History

   • In Memory

   • Cultivation of Hope - 2nd Degree

   • Centers of the Community

   • Lecturer’s Desk

   • The Hand That Holds The Bread

   • The Final Word



JUNE 12, 2020

Grange issues statement addressing racism, inequality and organization's foundation of inclusivity

The National Grange unequivocally opposes racism. The voices of Grange members across our country join those who cry out in sorrow for the lives lost to racist actions, for the divisions racism has cleaved between us and for the inequality that racism has spawned across our beloved nation.

Since our founding in 1867, we have lived by our motto, “In essentials, unity; in non-essentials, liberty; in all things, charity.” We have always welcomed and invited people of all races, creeds, religions and nationalities into our membership. We have asked none to join us who cannot see good in their fellow beings, who are willing to put to work their generous hearts and open hands to raise all their neighbors and communities.

Our Grange founders provided us a Declaration of Purposes for our organization that addressed a need for unity and civil discourse: “We shall constantly strive to secure harmony, good will, and brotherhood… We shall earnestly endeavor to suppress personal, local, sectional, and national prejudices… We desire a proper equality, and fairness; protection for the weak; restraint upon the strong; in short, justly distributed power.” These words still guide us today.

One does not merely join the Grange, but lives by the principles of faith, hope, charity and fidelity and loving their neighbor as themselves.

We have a deep commitment to the freedoms of speech, expression and peaceful protest enshrined in our Constitution for all people. The Grange’s Declaration of Purposes also teaches us that “…difference of opinion is no crime. Progress toward truth is made by differences of opinion, while the fault lies in the bitterness of the controversy.” Therefore we urge everyone to exercise their individual rights of expression in a civil and respectful manner. Each day, law enforcement officers must uphold the law equally while exercising good judgment and compassion.

Just as we do in each of our meetings, we must meet the peaceful expressions of various opinions with open ears and open hearts.

In this time of social unrest and anxiety, Grange members renew our pledge to combat prejudice and racism and will continue to strive to do better. We continue our 153-year-old tradition of welcoming all to our membership, building an inclusive family fraternity and providing our communities with a place for civil discussion and proactive, positive change.

HISTORY OF OFFICER TITLES OFFERED

The origin of Grange officer titles was never racist and has no connection to, or promotion of, the ante bellum southern plantation management system. Nor are any of the Grange officer titles reflective of any Biblical examples , such as when in the Gospels, Jesus is addressed by his followers as “Master.” All of the names of the Grange officers were borrowed from the traditional titles of the offices on British farm estates. These estates were basically self-contained, collective, village enterprises with duties and responsibilities assigned to the various workers based on their experience and educational attainment.

The title of Master was for the individual who was the overall direct manager for the estate, in charge of major decisions such as where to invest capital for productivity improvement, what crops to plant to gain the best return in rotation, where to assign workers for best use of the human resources on the estate, etc. The Master was supposed to be the most experienced and educated individual on the estate. The office of Grange Master is therefore directly analogous to titles awarded to other professions in our society as an achievement for educational and practical professional achievement, such as a master’s degree awarded by a college or university or a master tradesman such as a master plumber or electrician. In the installation ceremony for every Grange Master since the 1870’s, the critical importance of leadership is especially emphasized: “To you all connected with your Grange will look for example; and not these only, but those outside the Gate will diligently scrutinize each act….You may encounter difficulties. Overcome them, remembering that difficulties are but opportunities to test our abilities…A judicious Master will use due care that no time is lost in useless labor…Your laborers may not at first comprehend the value of this; but it is your duty to instruct them.”

The overseer was essentially the HR manager for the British estate. Again, education and experience were critical for a successful overseer. The overseer was as much a motivator as he was a manager. Again the installation ceremony for every Grange Overseer makes clear the scope of duties as the personnel manager for the Grange. “The Laborers come to you for instruction in their work, and you are brought in contact with them. Your influence is direct; exert that influence with due care. Of all the sweeteners of human toil, of all the motive powers that give alacrity to the hand or foot, readiness to the will, and intelligence to mind and purpose, the quickest and most enduring in results is the kind word spoken in season.”

At no point in time was the sanctioned use physical force or violence to obtain compliance with the direction of the estate management that became associated with the southern plantation system ever part of Grange teachings. Grange laborers (members) have always voluntarily contributed their time and talent to the good of the organization and elected qualified officers from among their own ranks to lead them, working their way from lower offices to higher as education and experience increased on their Grange journey.

Today we have a clear understanding that these terms, while never borrowed from the heinous time of American slavery, still evoke valid emotions and thoughts of racial inequity and hate. We have actively transitioned to the words President and Vice President. While the original terms are still sometimes used out of habit, and are still found in some of our documents that date back to our founding, we seek to make comfortable in Granges all persons of good character seeking to join us, and urge our members to transition with us to more modern titles.

Join us Tuesday for Membership Matters Zoom Meeting

The June edition of the Membership Matters meeting will be next week on Tuesday, June 16 at 8:30 pm eastern time.

Since June brings us both the halfway point of this year as well as the end of the 2019-2020 National Grange membership year, we will be having an open forum type discussion about what plans we can help Community Granges implement while we are unable to meet physically so that they can have success in the upcoming membership year.

Please note that we will be moving back to our regular private zoom platform for this meeting. The log-on/call-in information is in the attached picture. I hope to have many of you there for a lively discussion.

Go to tiny.cc/1867zoom or call 669-900-6833. Use meeting ID 525-965-930 to log in.

MEMBER BENEFITS: Discounts through Tickets at Work

Log into the member’s side of the National Grange website for codes or contact Loretta Washington at lwashington@nationalgrange.org



Fri. June 12
@ 4:30 PM EDT
ASL/Deaf Culture: Lesson 10

Sat. June 13
@ 8:30 PM EDT
Date Night In 11.0

Sun. June 14
@ 7:00 PM EDT
Flag Day Celebration – A History of the U.S. Flag

Mon. June 15
@ 8:00 PM EDT
#MyFavoriteMemory – Memories from Grange Youth times

Tues. June 16
@ 8:30 PM EDT
Membership Matters ZOOM ONLY (Not livestreamed)

Wed. June 17
@ 6:30 PM EDT
Virtual Tour of the Jordan Dairy Farm

Thurs. June 18
@ 8:00 PM EDT
#TBT – Oral Histories

Fri. June 19
@ 4:30 PM EDT
ASL/Deaf Culture Language 11

Sat. June. 20
@ 8:30 PM EDT
Date Night In 12.0

Sun. June 21
TBD
TBD

Mon. June 22
TBD
TBD

Tues. June 23
TBD
TBD

Wed. June 24
@ 4:00 PM EDT
Legislative Update with Burton Eller

Thurs. June 25
@ 5:00 PM EDT
Summer: The Grange’s Second Degree (ONLY IN FACEBOOK – GRANGE HERITAGE FORUM GROUP)

Fri. June 26
@ 4:30 PM EDT
ASL/Deaf Culture Language 12

Sat. June 27
@ 8:30 PM EDT
Date Night In 13.0

All livestreams are sponsored by Grange Foundation and available at any time after the close of the event at facebook.com/nationalgrange/video or at youtube.com/nationalgrange.

If you have suggestions or questions, contact Amanda at communications@nationalgrange.org

Most issues available. Most recent issue, the Spring 2020 magazine with 100-pages full of features and information about Granges doing work to respond to COVID crisis, rural health issues, creative writing, a new Junior Passport on the American Flag and more.












On June 6th, we updated the website to add a page showing various Facebook pages for the State Grange, Subordinate Granges and the National Grange.

This page can be accessed from the main menu, My Grange, and then clicking on Find Us On Facebook. Also, in the footer of every webpage is link to this page and one directly to the State Grange webpage.

To submit a Grange related facebook page, click here. Note, we will only list Subordinate Granges within California!



Welcome to the 2020 California Grange Expo

The California Grange Expo brings together all Grange contests to make it easier for you, our members and friends, to participate in and support the Grange. This book is for Grange and Junior Grange members of all ages as well as prospective members within the community. Use the Expo to introduce the Grange to other people. Consider offering workshops or classes at your Grange Hall or meeting place that could result in entries for these contests. Invite experts to introduce new techniques or skills of interest to your members and the community. Hold your own local Exposition to increase the visibility of your Grange in the community.

Separate Divisions are listed for Juniors (age 4 1/2-13 inclusive), Youth (14-20), as well as Senior (21+) exhibitors. The age of an entrant, unless otherwise stated, is based on the participant’s age on 1/1/2020. The exhibitor will select the appropriate Section for their participation. The same class numbers are used in each age section.

Pre-registration of entries is required so that the check-in process will be smooth and easy for everyone involved.

The California State Grange and the California Grange Expo are not responsible for errors on entry forms. No exhibitor shall be entitled to an award that has been disallowed because of his/her own error. Entries not meeting contest rules, including labeling, will be disqualified and excluded from awards.

Entries must be the work of the exhibitor and completed during the contest year. Except for classes using recycled or repurposed items, materials should be new. Work should be clean and in good repair.

Decisions of the judges as recorded on the judging sheets are final. To encourage high standards the judges shall place exhibits based on merit. Judges may withhold placings as they see fit. Best of Show awards will be awarded at the judge’s discretion to superior exhibits.

It is important for exhibitors, GYF advisors, and members to be familiar with the rules under which these contests are held. If you have questions regarding the application of rules, qualification of entries or exhibitors please contact the appropriate Department Director. You may also contact the Registrar at (559) 961-7257 after 3 PM and (559)935-0926 to leave a message. You can also email to expo@castategrange.org or bigfamr@inreach.com In addition online entry is now available at https://www.blueribbonfair.com/BRFairProd/BlueRibbonStart.aspx?ID=1805

The entry deadline for the Grange Expo is Friday September 11, 2020.

Please be advised, in the event the 145th California State Grange session is shortened due to Covid 19 concerns the California Grange Expo shall become a virtual show using submission of digital documentation of exhibits for judging.

Go To Online Entry Form

Get Expo Book

Get Expo Entry Form



JUNE 5, 2020


2020 National Convention Shortened, Open to Delegates and Officers Only; Several Other Changes Made

By Betsy Huber, National President

The National Grange Executive Committee is very sorry to announce that the 2020 National Grange Convention will have many changes because of the Covid-19 pandemic and therefore will be open for National delegates and officers only. No visitors or Grangers will be invited to attend in person this year.

The convention will be cut to two days and the only business will be voting on resolutions and electing two executive committee officers. Extra activities, such as the Evening of Excellence, Youth and Junior Public Speaking and Sign a Song, will take place virtually. The Seventh Degree will not be exemplified this year.

Other recognitions such as Community Service awards, Distinguished Grange, Grange Legacy Family, and the Quilt Block Contest, will be held and awards given, but there will be no ceremony. National Grange Department Directors have released their plans and they follow this article. Each may be contacted for further guidance as needed.

The Valley Forge Casino Resort, site of the convention, has been closed since March 14 to this date (June 6). We don’t know when it will be permitted to open, because the counties around Philadelphia are a hot spot for the virus. The hotel is willing to allow us to downsize our convention to two days, 80 people, hopefully without penalty, so we are exercising that option at this time.

Also we do not want to endanger any of our members by asking them to travel and to spend days in a large crowd. The health and safety of our Grange family comes first. We feel it may not be safe to gather, even by November. Many of your State Sessions will see major changes this year also. We hope you will understand this decision, and keep on working at the local level as much as you can to help your communities.

Updates to Contests, Programs Provided

Due to the changing format of the 154th National Grange Convention and limitations related to Grange work and activities for 2020, the National Grange directors in charge of various contests and programs have issued guidance for this year’s events. Please note changes to these activities, which includes some cancellations of contests and some changed submission requirements.

From this information, your state may issue guidance related to changes in state-level programming, such as receiving and judging community service books, talent entries, ambassador candidate preparation and more. If you are a state-director and wish to learn more about how you may change your programming to conform to the new guidance please contact the national director for your department. If you are a Subordinate or Pomona director, please contact the State Director where state-level entries are required or the national director for direct submission contests and programs such as Junior contests, Distinguished Grange and more.

PROGRAMS

• Distinguished Grange - Program will continue as noted and deadline of August 1 still applies. Fill out the form to the best of your ability. Entries will be considered with COVID cancellations and restrictions in mind. If you feel you are a Distinguished Grange, please apply.
• Grange In Action Recognition Program - Granges are highly encouraged to apply. Granges continuing outreach during the COVID crisis should qualify. Deadline of September 25 and all other program rules still apply. If Granges apply to Distinguished Grange, they may not apply for Grange in Action.
• Grange Legacy Family Recognition Program - Families may still apply by the deadline of August 3 with information to be included in our list of Legacy Families. Certificates will be mailed directly to the recipients and will be recognized at the 2021 National Grange Convention in a fashion to be determined. Arrangements must be made with Loretta Washington and confirmed by the State Grange.

For clarification on these programs, contact Loretta Washington.

LECTURER

• Evening of Excellence – All states are encouraged to conduct state contests and submit their Best of Show winner to the National Lecturer. All State Grange Best of Show winners will be invited to perform on a special National Grange Virtual Evening of Excellence later this fall.
• Photography Showcase – The Photography Showcase of the Best of Show winners from each State Grange at National Convention has been canceled. In its place will be a Virtual Photography Contest – open to ALL members and non-members, regardless of age. Look for entry information in next week’s Patron’s Chain.
• Publicity Item Contest – The 2020 Publicity Item Contest is a go with no changes.
• Best of the States Showcase (Mid-Atlantic Region) – There will be no Best of the States/Best of the Region display this year.
• Quilt Block Contest – The 2020 Quilt Block Contest is still a go with no changes.
• Quilts of Valor Presentation – The Wednesday evening QOV presentation will not occur at the National Convention this year. State and local Granges are encouraged to find a way to make these presentations. Please send photos and write-ups of your QOV presentations to National Lecturer Chris Hamp at lecturer@nationalgrange.org.

For additional information or clarification on these programs, contact Chris Hamp.

FOUNDATION

• Grange Mercantile – There will be no physical 2020 Grange Foundation Mercantile at the National Convention. Items already collected will be auctioned online throughout the summer or fall with more details coming. Please continue to make and prepare for future donation your high-quality handicrafts and contact National Lecturer Chris Hamp about donations by email at lecturer@nationalgrange.org
• Live Auction - No live auction will take place at convention. Please save items for auction at the 2021 Convention or contact National President Betsy Huber to discuss donations.
• $20 for ’20 Youth Donations – Will be recognized at the 2021 session in a way TBD.

COMMUNITY SERVICE

• “Of the Year” Awards (Teacher, Law Enforcement Officer, Firefighter) – No changes. Forms available on the nationalgrange.org website and deadline remains Nov. 1.
• Community Service Notebooks - Notebooks will not come to convention as they will not be judged at session. State winning notebooks should be sent electronically to communityservice@nationalgrange.org.
• A brief training will be held later in the summer to discuss how you can scan and upload these large files to services like Google Drive or Dropbox. Granges who wish to submit the materials by USB drive may send the drive directly to Pete Pompper at his home address.
• Community Service Project - There will be no on-site collection for the annual National Community Service Project, directed by the host region. Instead you are encouraged to keep track of any service done by your members or Grange during this year and complete the community service form and submit to Pete Pompper by mail or email.

For clarification on these programs, contact Pete Pompper.

YOUTH

• Parliamentary Procedure contest will not be held this year.
• Code Reading/Grange Ritual will not be held but will be transitioning to a regional contest in 2021. Details will come out in the 2021 Youth Program and Handbook.
• Youth Officer Team and John Trimble Legislative Youth Experience - No applications will be accepted
• Pillars - Notification of entry is still due September 1st and entries will need to be scanned and received by the National Grange Youth Director by November 1.
• Ambassador/Young Patron - States are encouraged to submit candidates for 2021 Youth Ambassadors and Outstanding Young Patrons. State Ambassador/Young Patron candidates are required to participate in a regional public speaking contest. Deadline to sign up is June 15th. Even if you think you may be interested in running for or being eligible to compete for Ambassador/Young Patron, sign up to participate. Sign up at bit.ly/contests20. The deadline of September 1 for all other requirements still applies. Interviews will be held in October (TBA) and the announcement of 2021 National Grange Youth Leadership Team will be announced in November. Notebooks will need to be scanned and digitally submitted for judges to review. Notebooks must be received one week before the interview date (TBA.)
• Distinguished Youth Grange - The program will continue as noted and the deadline of September 1 still applies. Fill out the form to the best of your ability. Entries will be considered with COVID cancellations and restrictions in mind. If you feel you are a Distinguished Youth Grange who meets basic minimum criteria, please apply.
• Junior Mentor Award/Wib and June Justi Youth Community Service Award – Sept. 1 deadline still applies
• Youth Membership Award - September 1 deadline still applies
• Grange Baseball contest will be held virtually in September. More details to come.
• GROW Club Raffle - More details will be coming about the GROW Club’s annual scholarship raffle this summer. Please check back in the Patron’s Chain newsletter to learn more.

For clarification on these programs, contact Mandy Bostwick.

COMMNICATIONS

• Communication Fellows Program - Applications for the 2020-21 Communication Fellows Program will be posted in early July. The program will begin with remote instruction in fall 2020 and run through 2021. Participants who complete the remote instruction will be sponsored to attend the 2021 National Grange Convention to complete the capstone hands-on training and receive further instruction across a variety of areas of Grange leadership, membership, programming and more.

For clarification on these programs, contact Amanda Brozana Rios.

JUNIORS

• Contests - As always, Junior contest entries may come directly to the director and need not go through a state-level contest in order to compete or be judged. These contests include (Sept. 1 deadline: Junior Historian Award, Ag Awareness, Cape of Honor, Jr Ambassador Applications. Oct. 1 deadline: digital talent show, creative art, creative writing, mini- scrapbook, photography, handy-craft, membership)
• JUNIOR AT HEART SUBMISSIONS (14+ to support the Junior Program) Remain due by October 31 with $5 tax-deductible entry fee made to Grange Foundation, MEMO LINE: Junior
• Junior community service book - Must be digitally scanned and sent to National Junior or Community Service Director. Oct. 31 deadline
• Junior quilt blocks to Chris Hamp by Oct. 31 deadline.
• State/Local directors reports – remains due to National Junior Director by October 1.
• Grange Baseball will be turned into a trivia night for Juniors- sign-ups will be in August and Contest (just for fun) will be in September. This will be done via Zoom in the same layout that the current trivia nights are being held.
• Junior Passports - new passports are being published on a regular basis, check back regularly to the Junior website or create your own to submit.
• Ambassador - States are encouraged to submit candidates for 2021 National Junior Ambassador. Deadline of September 1 still applies. Interviews will be done via a Zoom platform in October. Current Ambassadors Bryce Danko & Brianna Gervais will serve as mentors to the new team in 2021.

For clarification on these programs, contact Samantha Wilkins.

Grange Headquarters Sustain Minor Damage During Protests
By Amanda Brozana Rios, National Communications Director

During the evening of Saturday, May 30, the third night of protests in Washington D.C., the National Grange Headquarters sustained minor damage.

A rock was thrown through one of the front windows, breaking a pane and scattering glass inside. The rock landed more than 20 feet inside the building.

A red graffiti tag was painted on the front edifice that was shortly removed thanks to the White House Historical Association, whose next door building was heavily spray painted with many messages.

On Monday, June 1, building engineer Mujo Mrkonjik fixed cardboard over all the first-floor windows to reduce the possibility of further damage. Secret Service also removed some of the landscaping items outside the building they were concerned could become projectiles or be damaged.

“Today we paid the price of having a building in the heart of Washington, D.C.,” National President Betsy Huber said of the damage on a Monday evening Cultivating Connections episode, reminding member that the building is located just a half a block from the open park in front of the White House. She encouraged all members to pray for peace in the nation and our neighborhood during this time.

Streets around the building were barricaded starting Monday afternoon for most of the week, reducing traffic in the area.

No further damage was reported as of the time of this release and protests have quieted in the city.

Huber thanked all members who have given in the past to the National Grange Building Fund and those who gave in recent days.

“Our building is a treasured asset and just as we would pitch in to maintain and preserve a family home we had a stake in, members are encouraged to help where they can to keep our organization’s home in good shape,” Huber said.

National Grange Welcomes New D.C. Intern
Sean O’Neil is a rising senior studying political science and economics at The George Washington University who will be joining the Grange as an intern this summer to work on our political advocacy team. Sean is originally from Lansing, New York, a small town in the finger lakes region, where he spent his free time tending the family garden and learning about the outdoors as a Boy Scout.

Previously, Sean has interned for the office of Congressman Erik Paulsen, the Ministry of Tourism of the Republic of Indonesia, the Embassy of France to the United States, the Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Energy Association, and most recently the Military Commissions Defense Organization in the Department of Defense. Sean is very excited to join the Grange’s advocacy efforts this summer, and looks forward to learning more about agricultural and rural-focused policy.

MEMBER BENEFIT: Life Line Screening
Life Line Screening will provide Grange members with valuable information on how to become proactive about their health and their family’s health by offering a way to get high-quality health screenings that are accurate, convenient, and inexpensive.

Take advantage of a four package screening that consists of Stroke, Vascular Disease and Heart Rhythm Package, for only $135, a special price for National Grange members. For more information or to schedule a screening, call Life Line Screening toll-free at: 1-866-204-9860 to sign up.

Free Events Offered for Educators Who Seek to Add Ag to Their Curriculum

Several free virtual events, which will provide participants with an introduction to storyline approach while connecting educators with geneticists, animal scientists, ecologists and more, are available this summer!

The lessons align to Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), and each event provides immediate classroom applications and access to agricultural storylines.

Learn more and register here: https://www.onthefarmstem.com/events/livestream-events

Here is a high level overview of the events and supplemental asynchronous materials:

July 21st at 10 AM CST: High School – Genetics (approx. 3.5 hours)


• Storyline: How can we design cattle to better meet human needs? In this high school Storyline unit on genetics and heredity, students are introduced to ‘SuperCows’. As they explore the vast variety of cattle breeds, students discover that cattle are specialized for different purposes and while similar, the ‘SuperCows’ are clearly unique. Students wonder what caused this diversity and specificity which leads to investigations about the role of inheritance, DNA and proteins.
• Experience anchoring phenomena, explore Storyline Routines and connect with field experts & scientists to gain contextual knowledge of the three-dimensional learning in this unit
• Access to genetics storyline unit
• Credit options available

July 23rd at 10 AM CST: Middle School – Ecosystem Dynamics & Interactions


• Storyline: What do prairie chickens need to survive in today’s prairies? This middle school unit covering ecosystems, animal behavior and symbiosis was developed through the Storyline approach. Middle school students will be figuring out why prairie chickens have a very unique dance and understand the
• role cows play to help ensure the dance takes place. Using this approach, students engage in science concepts to help ensure the survival of the prairie chicken.
• Experience anchoring phenomena, explore Storyline Routines and connect with field experts & scientists to gain contextual knowledge of the three-dimensional learning in this unit
• Access to genetics storyline unit
• Credit options available

Asynchronous eLearning Modules


• Available immediately following events
• Three modules: Anchoring Phenomena, Navigation Routines, and Discussion Types & Talk Moves
• Support your learning and implementation of Storyline approach
• Credit options available

LAST DAY FOR GRANT APPLICATION SUBMISSIONS

Today, June 5, is the deadline to submit applications for a $100 grant from Grange Foundation for outreach and projects, events and other efforts to help your community in a variety of ways, including reducing loneliness by holding open-house virtual meetings, game nights and more in response to the COVID crisis.

Grant information can be found at grangefoundation.org/grants



Friday, June 5
@ 4:30 PM EDT
ASL/Deaf Culture: Lesson 9


@ 9:00 PM EDT
Trivia Night w/ the Grange #3

Saturday, June 6
@ 8:30 PM EDT
Date Night In 10.0

Sunday, June 7
@ 8:30 PM EDT
A look at the Communication Fellows Program

Monday, June 8
@ 8:30 PM EDT
Writing resolutions that work

Tuesday, June 9
@ 8:30 PM EDT
Effective Committees for the Subordinate Grange: Creation, Functions, and Effects

Wednesday June 10
@ 4:00 PM EDT
Anne Hazlett, Senior Advisor for Rural Affairs, Office of National Drug Control Policy, Executive Office of the President


@ 7:00 PM EDT
Join PA State Grange for BINGO (contact Lizzie at publicrelations@pagrange.org for details)

@ 9:00 PM EDT
Live drawing of Foundation COVID-19 Grants

Thursday, June 11
@ 4:00 PM EDT
Legislative Update with Burton Eller

Friday, June 12
@ 4:30 PM EDT
ASL/Deaf Culture: Lesson 10

Saturday, June 13
@ 8:30 PM EDT
Date Night In 11.0 Sunday, June 14
@ 7:30 PM EDT
Great minute-taking and the historical importance of Grange records

All livestreams are sponsored by Grange Foundation and available at any time after the close of the event at facebook.com/nationalgrange/video or at youtube.com/nationalgrange. If you have suggestions or questions, contact Amanda at communications@nationalgrange.org

JOIN US FOR TRIVIA WITH THE GRANGE TONIGHT, Friday, June 5 starting at 9 p.m. Eastern on Zoom. Bring your friends (Grange membership not required)!

Join Zoom Meeting by 8:55 p.m. Eastern by going to: bit.ly/ng-cclive-guest Pre-registration preferred but not required. To pre-register by 8 p.m. Eastern, go to bit.ly/grange-trivia






June 2020

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145th Annual Session of the California State Grange - Submitting Resolutions

October 3 & 4, 2020, Orangevale, CA

Arrangements for the 145th Annual Session of the California State Grange are moving ahead and one important part of the Session is Resolution Processing. Below are (1) deadlines for submitting Resolutions; (2) how to submit on-line or by email; and (3) being part of the Resolution Committee. Resolutions must be voted on by your Grange in an in-person or on-line meeting and be reflected in the Secretary's minutes of that meeting.

Dates and Deadlines

Resolutions to Amend the State Grange ByLaws Saturday July 25, 2020:

Resolutions to amend the State Grange By-Laws must be received by end of business. August 1, 2020: Date By-law amendments will be mailed to the Master & Secretary of the Community/Subordinate and Pomona Granges per the 30-day prior notice written in the bylaws.

All other Resolutions

Tuesday, September 1, 2020

All other Resolutions must be received. Saturday September 6, 2020

All resolutions will be submitted to the Resolution Committees to begin their work.

Submitting Resolutions

On-line Submission

The Grange Secretary, or designated person, may submit Resolutions on-line through the California State Grange Website (Click here to submit resolutions). You may submit multiple resolutions by uploading a document or copy/paste the text in to the form.

Email Submission

You may submit resolutions by email to the State Grange Secretary at LBooth@CAStateGrange.org

Mailed Resolutions

Please mail to the State Grange Office at 3830 U Street, Sacramento, CA 95817. Please notify the State Grange Secretary by phone or email that these items are being mailed.

All resolutions will be acknowledged to confirm receipt.

RESOLUTION COMMITTEES - WE NEED YOU!

Resolution Committee Participation

The initial processing of resolutions begins with the Resolution Committees. This year, the Committee work will be done in an on-line conference platform before the State Session. Resolutions will be posted for the Committee members to access. Edits will be completed in committee and the final resolutions made available for the Convention/Annual Session.

We need your knowledge and expertise to help develop Grange policies. These are then moved forward in to legislation or activism.

Standing Resolution Committees are:

  • AGRICULTURE & WATER
  • AUDIT & BUDGET
  • CITIZENSHIP & TAXATION
  • CONSERVATION
  • EDUCATION & HEALTH
  • GRANGE LAW & GRANGE GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT
  • LABOR, JUDICIARY, & TRANSPORTATION

Please Click Here to submit your interest in participating on a Grange Resolution Committee.



JUNE 2020 WRAP-UP

Agriculture and Food

Food Prices Skyrocket While Farm Prices Nosedive

The cost of food from the grocery store bought to eat at home during the lockdown skyrocketed, rising the most in 46 years as the food supply chain struggled to get surplus farm commodities to the consumer. Restaurant carryout meals spiked as well. Analysts predict supermarket and restaurant customers should not expect prices to drop anytime soon. At the same time, farm gate earnings are expected to plunge for the foreseeable future without additional pandemic economic aid.

Congress Extends Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility

Congress overwhelmingly voted to increase from 8 to 24 weeks the amount of time businesses and farms are given to spend proceeds on qualified expenses in order to have their PPP loan forgiven. This extension was aggressively supported by the National Grange and producer organizations. Congress created the PPP in its CARES Act to help small businesses and farms survive the economic impacts the COVID-19 lockdown.

Grange: Include Ag Organizations in PPP

The National Grange is asking members of the Senate to extend Paycheck Protection Program eligibility to agricultural organizations as the Senate crafts a CARES 2 relief package. President Betsy Huber told Senators producers depend on their organizations for news, communication, advice, market intelligence, best practices and much more. Strong producer organizations will be in much better positions to assist members with their much-needed economic recovery and emotional support, she said.

Grange Asks for Trucking Relief

The National Grange and over 60 agricultural and food organizations are asking House members to support the FARM to TABLE Act (Joyce, R-PA). Joyce's bill will extend truckers' hours of service rule exemptions year-round for agricultural commodities within a 150-mile radius from the source of the commodity.

General Aviation Important to Rural Areas

The National Grange, joined by 15 other organizations, is asking Senate and House leadership to temporarily suspend fuel taxes for general aviation aircraft as Congress did for commercial airlines in their CARES Act. This can be accomplished in Congress' CARES 2 Act being crafted now. General aviation and local airports are a key economic driver for recovery in rural regions of the country.

Senators Support Small Plant Expansion

As the food supply chain begins to recover and meat processing plants return to capacity, there is a renewed push to expand small and local processing capacity. Nine Senators (Kramer R-ND, King D-ME, Rounds R-SD, Manchin D-WV, Daines R-MT, Smith D-MN, Barrasso R-WY, Tester D-MT , Enzi-WY) have cosponsored the bipartisan New Markets for State-Inspected Meat and Poultry Act which would allow state products which have been inspected by an approved (at least equal to federal standards) state inspection program to be sold interstate. Natiional Grange policy supports equal-to state inspection and subsequent interstate sales.

Five Million Food Boxes and Climbing

USDA's new Farmers to Families Food Box Program was designed to connect farmers and distributors to support food banks, community and faith-based organizations and other non-profits to those most in need across the country. Instead of destroying commodities that are not marketable, producers can sell directly to distributors of federally funded feeding programs. Five million food boxes had been distributed by early June.

The Environment

Waters of the U.S. Rule Goes into Effect

The new Navigable Waters Protection Rule went into effect in early June after a federal judge declined to block its implementation. The rule was widely supported by farmers, ranchers, landowners and others after an earlier 2015 rule was deemed to have overstepped congressional intent of the Clean Water Act and infringed upon private landowner rights. On the same day, a U.S. District judge in Colorado granted a preliminary injunction to prevent the rule from going into effect there.

Senate Bill Would Pay Farmers for Carbon Sequestration

A bipartisan Senate bill is garnering support that would give USDA a key role in overseeing voluntary agricultural carbon markets. Lead sponsors are Braun (R-IN), Stabenow (D-MI), Graham (R-SC) and Whitehouse (D-RI). The Growing Climate Solutions Act would create a USDA system for certifying third-party verifiers and technical assistance providers. Farmers and ranchers could receive assistance and incentives for implementing practices which reduce carbon emissions on their operations. In addition, they could sell excess carbon credits to commercial firms who exceed their carbon emission cap. During a Senate Agriculture Committee hearing on June 24, the bill appeared to have broad support among committee members.

Health Care

Extend Medicare Enrollment

The National Grange joined a large number of patient advocate groups to urge the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services at the Department of Health and Human Services to extend special enrollment and premium relief flexibilities for Medicare. These extensions are necessary to ensure access to coverage for older Americans during the remainder of the COVID-19 crisis.

Widespread Testing Helps Halt Outbreaks

Meat processing plants have been among the country's worst coronavirus hot spots. It is typical for large numbers of employees to work in close proximity under one roof. Across the industry, thousands of workers became infected and hundreds died. But rapid rollout of testing in those plants could offer guidance to other businesses to emulate as they try to re-open. Processing plant workers who test positive have to isolate themselves and if no symptoms appear, they can return to work. This testing and isolation along with face shields, social distancing in common areas, and plastic dividers to separate workers on production lines seems to have paid off with big reductions in coronavirus cases.

Infrastructure

Infrastructure Next on House Agenda

On June 22, House Democrats introduced H.R. 2, The Moving Forward Act, a major 2,300-page infrastructure bill. Key items in the legislation include:


• $500 billion to rebuild transportation infrastructure
• $100 billion for affordable housing
• $30 billion for hospital upgrades
• $25 billion for safe drinking water systems
• $70 billion to transform the electric grid to better accommodate renewable energy
• $100 billion for high speed broadband to unserved and underserved communities
• $130 billion for high-poverty school infrastructure
• Funding for the Postal Service

Infrastructure Outlook

President Trump is pushing for a $1 trillion spending package to boost the struggling economy. Senate Republicans are warning that the President's proposal and the House bill are too rich and would be a heavy lift for the Senate. Senate Majority McConnell warns of the impact of the surging federal deficit on future generations and instead would like to pass a five-year reauthorization of the Highway Trust Fund.

Telecommunications

Broadband Mapping is Priority

National Grange president Betsy Huber wrote members of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee to again urge members to commit full funding to create more precise broadband maps through the Broadband DATA Act. Current broadband mapping cannot accurately depict the underserved areas of rural America for effective broadband deployment investment. The Grange letter was in advance of the June 24 Committee oversight hearing with all five Federal Communications Commissioners.

Grange Participates in Broadband Briefing

National Grange president Betsy Huber was a panelist on a virtual briefing hosted by the Connect Americans Now coalition. The briefing focused on the urgency to address the digital divide, the progress that has been made to clear regulatory hurdles, and actions Congress can take to allocate funding to most rapidly and cost-effectively close the broadband gap. Other panelists included the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, American Farm Bureau, National Rural Education Association, and Student Veterans of America.

Perspective

Vision without execution is just hallucination. ~ Henry Ford

Where there is no vision, there is no hope. ~ George Washington Carver

Vision is the art of seeing what is invisible to others. ~ Jonathan Swift

Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today and creates a vision for tomorrow. ~ Melody Beattie

Champions are made from something they have deep inside them - a desire, a dream, a vision. ~ Muhammad Ali

Every moment is a golden one for him who has the vision to recognize it as such. ~ Henry Miller

Feedback and questions are welcome. Call Burton Eller, at (202) 628-3507 ext. 114 or email beller@nationalgrange.org




JUNE 19, 2020



PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE: A Step Toward Normalcy

By Betsy Huber, National President

Greetings from your National Grange Headquarters, where we are beginning to welcome staff back at least part-time. We still hear peaceful demonstrations in the street every afternoon, but some of the plywood protection has been removed from store fronts nearby and things are very slowly opening up again, even though the pandemic continues.

It is still a strange time! While some Granges are again holding in person meetings outdoors or with social distancing, many State Granges are making plans for state sessions with delegates only in attendance. Some are brainstorming totally virtual sessions in case that becomes necessary this fall. You will need to do what your state’s Governor requires and what your own members feel comfortable with. My own Pomona is planning a July 11 picnic meeting outdoors, with social distancing and boxed lunches—no shared food! If you do decide to meet, just be wise and careful and protect our more vulnerable members.

Meanwhile, most fairs, festivals, and parades have been cancelled and it looks like it will be a quiet, peaceful summer—although time seems to be flying by as quickly as ever. Your National Grange staff and directors have been busy setting up contingency plans for contests and programs to replace the Regional conferences and National Convention activities.

And now that you have more time at home, I expect lots more entries in all our contests! The Youth sponsored Public Speaking and Sign-a-Song Contests deadlines have passed, but there’s still plenty of time for quilt blocks, photography, and Community Service notebooks. Be sure to complete your Distinguished Grange application by August 1. If you have generations of family in the Grange, check out the Grange Legacy Family application on the website and have your family recognized with a certificate of appreciation. And there’s still time to practice that talent to perform in the Evening of Excellence.

Be sure to stay tuned for announcements about the daily Cultivating Connections programs and any announcements about your State Grange Sessions and other activities. Enjoy the wonderful summer weather!

Lecturer's Photo Contest Update

The Photography Showcase of the Best of Show winners from each State Grange at National Convention has been canceled. In its place will be a Virtual Photography Contest – open to ALL members and non-members, regardless of age.

Improvise, Adapt, Overcome

By Joe Stefenoni, National Grange Membership & Leadership Development Director

The United States Marine Corps says that all Marines are “trained to improvise, adapt and overcome any obstacle in whatever situation they are needed.”

The evening of June 14th, Redwood Valley Grange #382 in Redwood Valley, California presented “Live at The Grange,” an evening of musical talent digitally broadcast. This Grange is fortunate to have a number of members who are professional musicians, performers and artists, so this event was a natural display of the time and talent available to the Grange. They also used this as an opportunity to connect with the community, explain the Grange mission & activities and ask for donations to further Grange projects. The event was broadcast on their website as well as on YouTube. This event is the prime example of a Community Grange adapting and overcoming the challenge of creating community engagement during COVID.

This event highlighted the special talents of the members at Redwood Valley Grange. All Granges across the country are filled with members who have special and unique talents to share with the wider community. During this time where Grange cannot meet and hold community activities like we are accustomed to, we should be looking at how we can improvise, adapt and overcome this particular challenge. Does your Grange have a wealth of musical talent like the Redwood Valley Grange? Are there artists of other mediums who could teach an art project on a zoom call? Can your Grange host a community forum about how to create community while remaining socially distanced?

Engagement with members and community is critical in normal times, but even more so during COVID. Community Granges have always been notable community centers for enlivening activities and events. At your next meeting (digital or socially distanced), take the time to map out a plan for an event that engages the community and shows how the Grange benefits both them and the community. This may even mean dusting off your grange.org website and updating social media. No matter how it looks, be ready to improvise from the way we’ve always done things, adapt to the current situation, and overcome the challenge we face.

For more information about Redwood Valley Grange, you can visit their website redwoodvalleygrange.com or Facebook page facebook.com/RVGrange/.

CHECK OUT OUR GRANGE YOUTH ITEMS!

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Click Here To See These Items

MEMBER BENEFITS: 20% off Harvest Hosts Membership for RV-ers

Grange members can now enjoy 20% off their membership with Harvest Hosts, which has more than 825 partner sites across the U.S. and Canada that allow members with RVs to stay one night free on the property of an agriculturally-oriented business. In addition to the ag-based destinations, individuals can add to their membership the “+ golf” option that includes more than 350 golf courses.

There is an app associated with Harvest Hosts that provides maps of the destinations, trip routing and planning and much more. Members of Harvest Hosts can also enjoy other RV-oriented savings. Grange members with RVs are encouraged to check out Harvest Hosts at harvesthosts.com and use the code GRANGE at checkout.



Fri. June 19
@ 4:30 PM EDT
ASL/Deaf Culture: Lesson 11

Sat. June 20
@ 8:30 PM EDT
Date Night In 12.0

Sun. June 21
No Show Scheduled. Happy Father’s Day!

Mon. June 22
@ 2:30 PM EDT
Worth 1,000 Words: Importance of Photos & Great Pic Tips

Tues. June 23
@ 5:00 PM EDT
911 What’s your Emergency? How to be a good 911 reporter

Wed. June 24
@ 4:00 PM EDT
Legislative Update with Burton Eller


@ 7:00 PM EDT
BINGO with PA State Grange. Contact Lizzie at publicrelations@pagrange.org for details

Thurs. June 25
@ 5:00 PM EDT
Summer: The Grange’s Second Degree (ONLY IN FACEBOOK – GRANGE HERITAGE FORUM GROUP)

Fri., June 26


No program scheduled.

Sat. June 27
@ 8:30 PM EDT
Date Night In 13.0: Ode to Jr. Grange Camp!

All livestreams are sponsored by Grange Foundation and available at any time after the close of the event at facebook.com/nationalgrange/video or at youtube.com/nationalgrange. If you have suggestions or questions, contact Amanda at communications@nationalgrange.org

ALERT: YouTube Contest, “With Justice for All,” Seeks Submissions from Students About the Effect of Covid-19 and Recent Tragedies on Their Educational Experience

Prizes include 11 scholarships for students who best address the question, “How has your school delivered on the promise of equal access and educational excellence, particularly during these challenging times?”

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Center for Education Reform (CER), in partnership with the Freedom Coalition for Charter Schools, the Children’s Scholarship Fund, and the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools, today launched “With Justice for All,” a national YouTube contest for students.

Over the last few months, students and schools have faced significant challenges from distance learning and national tragedies. Times like these highlight how a great education is the most important asset a student has to effectively change the world.

So CER decided to ask students directly: Has your school delivered on the promise of equal access and educational excellence, particularly during these challenging times? Tell us how well your school did — or didn’t do — in providing you a great education.

“We want you to be able to take charge of your education,” said Jeanne Allen, CER’s founder and chief executive. “We want to assist you in writing the next chapter of your education story. Tell us your story, and we’ll tell everybody who needs to know, especially those in power.”

Videos must be shorter than three minutes, hashtagged with #MyEducationVideo, and submitted to MyEducationVideo.com by 11:59 PM EDT on July 4, 2020. Submissions will be evaluated by a panel of celebrity judges. Awards include 10 $2,500 scholarships — and one $20,000 scholarship — to the high school or college of a student’s choice. Winners will be announced during a live-streamed ceremony (date and time T.B.D.), and their videos may be shown to delegates at both of the 2020 national conventions this summer.

“We’ve designed this contest for students ages 13 and older, because we know it can be hard to get your ideas about education heard when you’re a kid,” said Allen.



June 16, 2020

Download to read this issue You will find in this issue the following articles:


   • Betsy Huber Interview

   • Editorial

   • Action Grange

   • State President’s Message

   • Overseer’s Station

   • Family Heritage Conf.

   • Who Is Your Deputy

   • Getting It Back

   • Taking Care of Grange History

   • In Memory

   • Cultivation of Hope - 2nd Degree

   • Centers of the Community

   • Lecturer’s Desk

   • The Hand That Holds The Bread

   • The Final Word



JUNE 12, 2020

Grange issues statement addressing racism, inequality and organization's foundation of inclusivity

The National Grange unequivocally opposes racism. The voices of Grange members across our country join those who cry out in sorrow for the lives lost to racist actions, for the divisions racism has cleaved between us and for the inequality that racism has spawned across our beloved nation.

Since our founding in 1867, we have lived by our motto, “In essentials, unity; in non-essentials, liberty; in all things, charity.” We have always welcomed and invited people of all races, creeds, religions and nationalities into our membership. We have asked none to join us who cannot see good in their fellow beings, who are willing to put to work their generous hearts and open hands to raise all their neighbors and communities.

Our Grange founders provided us a Declaration of Purposes for our organization that addressed a need for unity and civil discourse: “We shall constantly strive to secure harmony, good will, and brotherhood… We shall earnestly endeavor to suppress personal, local, sectional, and national prejudices… We desire a proper equality, and fairness; protection for the weak; restraint upon the strong; in short, justly distributed power.” These words still guide us today.

One does not merely join the Grange, but lives by the principles of faith, hope, charity and fidelity and loving their neighbor as themselves.

We have a deep commitment to the freedoms of speech, expression and peaceful protest enshrined in our Constitution for all people. The Grange’s Declaration of Purposes also teaches us that “…difference of opinion is no crime. Progress toward truth is made by differences of opinion, while the fault lies in the bitterness of the controversy.” Therefore we urge everyone to exercise their individual rights of expression in a civil and respectful manner. Each day, law enforcement officers must uphold the law equally while exercising good judgment and compassion.

Just as we do in each of our meetings, we must meet the peaceful expressions of various opinions with open ears and open hearts.

In this time of social unrest and anxiety, Grange members renew our pledge to combat prejudice and racism and will continue to strive to do better. We continue our 153-year-old tradition of welcoming all to our membership, building an inclusive family fraternity and providing our communities with a place for civil discussion and proactive, positive change.

HISTORY OF OFFICER TITLES OFFERED

The origin of Grange officer titles was never racist and has no connection to, or promotion of, the ante bellum southern plantation management system. Nor are any of the Grange officer titles reflective of any Biblical examples , such as when in the Gospels, Jesus is addressed by his followers as “Master.” All of the names of the Grange officers were borrowed from the traditional titles of the offices on British farm estates. These estates were basically self-contained, collective, village enterprises with duties and responsibilities assigned to the various workers based on their experience and educational attainment.

The title of Master was for the individual who was the overall direct manager for the estate, in charge of major decisions such as where to invest capital for productivity improvement, what crops to plant to gain the best return in rotation, where to assign workers for best use of the human resources on the estate, etc. The Master was supposed to be the most experienced and educated individual on the estate. The office of Grange Master is therefore directly analogous to titles awarded to other professions in our society as an achievement for educational and practical professional achievement, such as a master’s degree awarded by a college or university or a master tradesman such as a master plumber or electrician. In the installation ceremony for every Grange Master since the 1870’s, the critical importance of leadership is especially emphasized: “To you all connected with your Grange will look for example; and not these only, but those outside the Gate will diligently scrutinize each act….You may encounter difficulties. Overcome them, remembering that difficulties are but opportunities to test our abilities…A judicious Master will use due care that no time is lost in useless labor…Your laborers may not at first comprehend the value of this; but it is your duty to instruct them.”

The overseer was essentially the HR manager for the British estate. Again, education and experience were critical for a successful overseer. The overseer was as much a motivator as he was a manager. Again the installation ceremony for every Grange Overseer makes clear the scope of duties as the personnel manager for the Grange. “The Laborers come to you for instruction in their work, and you are brought in contact with them. Your influence is direct; exert that influence with due care. Of all the sweeteners of human toil, of all the motive powers that give alacrity to the hand or foot, readiness to the will, and intelligence to mind and purpose, the quickest and most enduring in results is the kind word spoken in season.”

At no point in time was the sanctioned use physical force or violence to obtain compliance with the direction of the estate management that became associated with the southern plantation system ever part of Grange teachings. Grange laborers (members) have always voluntarily contributed their time and talent to the good of the organization and elected qualified officers from among their own ranks to lead them, working their way from lower offices to higher as education and experience increased on their Grange journey.

Today we have a clear understanding that these terms, while never borrowed from the heinous time of American slavery, still evoke valid emotions and thoughts of racial inequity and hate. We have actively transitioned to the words President and Vice President. While the original terms are still sometimes used out of habit, and are still found in some of our documents that date back to our founding, we seek to make comfortable in Granges all persons of good character seeking to join us, and urge our members to transition with us to more modern titles.

Join us Tuesday for Membership Matters Zoom Meeting

The June edition of the Membership Matters meeting will be next week on Tuesday, June 16 at 8:30 pm eastern time.

Since June brings us both the halfway point of this year as well as the end of the 2019-2020 National Grange membership year, we will be having an open forum type discussion about what plans we can help Community Granges implement while we are unable to meet physically so that they can have success in the upcoming membership year.

Please note that we will be moving back to our regular private zoom platform for this meeting. The log-on/call-in information is in the attached picture. I hope to have many of you there for a lively discussion.

Go to tiny.cc/1867zoom or call 669-900-6833. Use meeting ID 525-965-930 to log in.

MEMBER BENEFITS: Discounts through Tickets at Work

Log into the member’s side of the National Grange website for codes or contact Loretta Washington at lwashington@nationalgrange.org



Fri. June 12
@ 4:30 PM EDT
ASL/Deaf Culture: Lesson 10

Sat. June 13
@ 8:30 PM EDT
Date Night In 11.0

Sun. June 14
@ 7:00 PM EDT
Flag Day Celebration – A History of the U.S. Flag

Mon. June 15
@ 8:00 PM EDT
#MyFavoriteMemory – Memories from Grange Youth times

Tues. June 16
@ 8:30 PM EDT
Membership Matters ZOOM ONLY (Not livestreamed)

Wed. June 17
@ 6:30 PM EDT
Virtual Tour of the Jordan Dairy Farm

Thurs. June 18
@ 8:00 PM EDT
#TBT – Oral Histories

Fri. June 19
@ 4:30 PM EDT
ASL/Deaf Culture Language 11

Sat. June. 20
@ 8:30 PM EDT
Date Night In 12.0

Sun. June 21
TBD
TBD

Mon. June 22
TBD
TBD

Tues. June 23
TBD
TBD

Wed. June 24
@ 4:00 PM EDT
Legislative Update with Burton Eller

Thurs. June 25
@ 5:00 PM EDT
Summer: The Grange’s Second Degree (ONLY IN FACEBOOK – GRANGE HERITAGE FORUM GROUP)

Fri. June 26
@ 4:30 PM EDT
ASL/Deaf Culture Language 12

Sat. June 27
@ 8:30 PM EDT
Date Night In 13.0

All livestreams are sponsored by Grange Foundation and available at any time after the close of the event at facebook.com/nationalgrange/video or at youtube.com/nationalgrange.

If you have suggestions or questions, contact Amanda at communications@nationalgrange.org

Most issues available. Most recent issue, the Spring 2020 magazine with 100-pages full of features and information about Granges doing work to respond to COVID crisis, rural health issues, creative writing, a new Junior Passport on the American Flag and more.












On June 6th, we updated the website to add a page showing various Facebook pages for the State Grange, Subordinate Granges and the National Grange.

This page can be accessed from the main menu, My Grange, and then clicking on Find Us On Facebook. Also, in the footer of every webpage is link to this page and one directly to the State Grange webpage.

To submit a Grange related facebook page, click here. Note, we will only list Subordinate Granges within California!



Welcome to the 2020 California Grange Expo

The California Grange Expo brings together all Grange contests to make it easier for you, our members and friends, to participate in and support the Grange. This book is for Grange and Junior Grange members of all ages as well as prospective members within the community. Use the Expo to introduce the Grange to other people. Consider offering workshops or classes at your Grange Hall or meeting place that could result in entries for these contests. Invite experts to introduce new techniques or skills of interest to your members and the community. Hold your own local Exposition to increase the visibility of your Grange in the community.

Separate Divisions are listed for Juniors (age 4 1/2-13 inclusive), Youth (14-20), as well as Senior (21+) exhibitors. The age of an entrant, unless otherwise stated, is based on the participant’s age on 1/1/2020. The exhibitor will select the appropriate Section for their participation. The same class numbers are used in each age section.

Pre-registration of entries is required so that the check-in process will be smooth and easy for everyone involved.

The California State Grange and the California Grange Expo are not responsible for errors on entry forms. No exhibitor shall be entitled to an award that has been disallowed because of his/her own error. Entries not meeting contest rules, including labeling, will be disqualified and excluded from awards.

Entries must be the work of the exhibitor and completed during the contest year. Except for classes using recycled or repurposed items, materials should be new. Work should be clean and in good repair.

Decisions of the judges as recorded on the judging sheets are final. To encourage high standards the judges shall place exhibits based on merit. Judges may withhold placings as they see fit. Best of Show awards will be awarded at the judge’s discretion to superior exhibits.

It is important for exhibitors, GYF advisors, and members to be familiar with the rules under which these contests are held. If you have questions regarding the application of rules, qualification of entries or exhibitors please contact the appropriate Department Director. You may also contact the Registrar at (559) 961-7257 after 3 PM and (559)935-0926 to leave a message. You can also email to expo@castategrange.org or bigfamr@inreach.com In addition online entry is now available at https://www.blueribbonfair.com/BRFairProd/BlueRibbonStart.aspx?ID=1805

The entry deadline for the Grange Expo is Friday September 11, 2020.

Please be advised, in the event the 145th California State Grange session is shortened due to Covid 19 concerns the California Grange Expo shall become a virtual show using submission of digital documentation of exhibits for judging.

Go To Online Entry Form

Get Expo Book

Get Expo Entry Form



JUNE 5, 2020


2020 National Convention Shortened, Open to Delegates and Officers Only; Several Other Changes Made

By Betsy Huber, National President

The National Grange Executive Committee is very sorry to announce that the 2020 National Grange Convention will have many changes because of the Covid-19 pandemic and therefore will be open for National delegates and officers only. No visitors or Grangers will be invited to attend in person this year.

The convention will be cut to two days and the only business will be voting on resolutions and electing two executive committee officers. Extra activities, such as the Evening of Excellence, Youth and Junior Public Speaking and Sign a Song, will take place virtually. The Seventh Degree will not be exemplified this year.

Other recognitions such as Community Service awards, Distinguished Grange, Grange Legacy Family, and the Quilt Block Contest, will be held and awards given, but there will be no ceremony. National Grange Department Directors have released their plans and they follow this article. Each may be contacted for further guidance as needed.

The Valley Forge Casino Resort, site of the convention, has been closed since March 14 to this date (June 6). We don’t know when it will be permitted to open, because the counties around Philadelphia are a hot spot for the virus. The hotel is willing to allow us to downsize our convention to two days, 80 people, hopefully without penalty, so we are exercising that option at this time.

Also we do not want to endanger any of our members by asking them to travel and to spend days in a large crowd. The health and safety of our Grange family comes first. We feel it may not be safe to gather, even by November. Many of your State Sessions will see major changes this year also. We hope you will understand this decision, and keep on working at the local level as much as you can to help your communities.

Updates to Contests, Programs Provided

Due to the changing format of the 154th National Grange Convention and limitations related to Grange work and activities for 2020, the National Grange directors in charge of various contests and programs have issued guidance for this year’s events. Please note changes to these activities, which includes some cancellations of contests and some changed submission requirements.

From this information, your state may issue guidance related to changes in state-level programming, such as receiving and judging community service books, talent entries, ambassador candidate preparation and more. If you are a state-director and wish to learn more about how you may change your programming to conform to the new guidance please contact the national director for your department. If you are a Subordinate or Pomona director, please contact the State Director where state-level entries are required or the national director for direct submission contests and programs such as Junior contests, Distinguished Grange and more.

PROGRAMS

• Distinguished Grange - Program will continue as noted and deadline of August 1 still applies. Fill out the form to the best of your ability. Entries will be considered with COVID cancellations and restrictions in mind. If you feel you are a Distinguished Grange, please apply.
• Grange In Action Recognition Program - Granges are highly encouraged to apply. Granges continuing outreach during the COVID crisis should qualify. Deadline of September 25 and all other program rules still apply. If Granges apply to Distinguished Grange, they may not apply for Grange in Action.
• Grange Legacy Family Recognition Program - Families may still apply by the deadline of August 3 with information to be included in our list of Legacy Families. Certificates will be mailed directly to the recipients and will be recognized at the 2021 National Grange Convention in a fashion to be determined. Arrangements must be made with Loretta Washington and confirmed by the State Grange.

For clarification on these programs, contact Loretta Washington.

LECTURER

• Evening of Excellence – All states are encouraged to conduct state contests and submit their Best of Show winner to the National Lecturer. All State Grange Best of Show winners will be invited to perform on a special National Grange Virtual Evening of Excellence later this fall.
• Photography Showcase – The Photography Showcase of the Best of Show winners from each State Grange at National Convention has been canceled. In its place will be a Virtual Photography Contest – open to ALL members and non-members, regardless of age. Look for entry information in next week’s Patron’s Chain.
• Publicity Item Contest – The 2020 Publicity Item Contest is a go with no changes.
• Best of the States Showcase (Mid-Atlantic Region) – There will be no Best of the States/Best of the Region display this year.
• Quilt Block Contest – The 2020 Quilt Block Contest is still a go with no changes.
• Quilts of Valor Presentation – The Wednesday evening QOV presentation will not occur at the National Convention this year. State and local Granges are encouraged to find a way to make these presentations. Please send photos and write-ups of your QOV presentations to National Lecturer Chris Hamp at lecturer@nationalgrange.org.

For additional information or clarification on these programs, contact Chris Hamp.

FOUNDATION

• Grange Mercantile – There will be no physical 2020 Grange Foundation Mercantile at the National Convention. Items already collected will be auctioned online throughout the summer or fall with more details coming. Please continue to make and prepare for future donation your high-quality handicrafts and contact National Lecturer Chris Hamp about donations by email at lecturer@nationalgrange.org
• Live Auction - No live auction will take place at convention. Please save items for auction at the 2021 Convention or contact National President Betsy Huber to discuss donations.
• $20 for ’20 Youth Donations – Will be recognized at the 2021 session in a way TBD.

COMMUNITY SERVICE

• “Of the Year” Awards (Teacher, Law Enforcement Officer, Firefighter) – No changes. Forms available on the nationalgrange.org website and deadline remains Nov. 1.
• Community Service Notebooks - Notebooks will not come to convention as they will not be judged at session. State winning notebooks should be sent electronically to communityservice@nationalgrange.org.
• A brief training will be held later in the summer to discuss how you can scan and upload these large files to services like Google Drive or Dropbox. Granges who wish to submit the materials by USB drive may send the drive directly to Pete Pompper at his home address.
• Community Service Project - There will be no on-site collection for the annual National Community Service Project, directed by the host region. Instead you are encouraged to keep track of any service done by your members or Grange during this year and complete the community service form and submit to Pete Pompper by mail or email.

For clarification on these programs, contact Pete Pompper.

YOUTH

• Parliamentary Procedure contest will not be held this year.
• Code Reading/Grange Ritual will not be held but will be transitioning to a regional contest in 2021. Details will come out in the 2021 Youth Program and Handbook.
• Youth Officer Team and John Trimble Legislative Youth Experience - No applications will be accepted
• Pillars - Notification of entry is still due September 1st and entries will need to be scanned and received by the National Grange Youth Director by November 1.
• Ambassador/Young Patron - States are encouraged to submit candidates for 2021 Youth Ambassadors and Outstanding Young Patrons. State Ambassador/Young Patron candidates are required to participate in a regional public speaking contest. Deadline to sign up is June 15th. Even if you think you may be interested in running for or being eligible to compete for Ambassador/Young Patron, sign up to participate. Sign up at bit.ly/contests20. The deadline of September 1 for all other requirements still applies. Interviews will be held in October (TBA) and the announcement of 2021 National Grange Youth Leadership Team will be announced in November. Notebooks will need to be scanned and digitally submitted for judges to review. Notebooks must be received one week before the interview date (TBA.)
• Distinguished Youth Grange - The program will continue as noted and the deadline of September 1 still applies. Fill out the form to the best of your ability. Entries will be considered with COVID cancellations and restrictions in mind. If you feel you are a Distinguished Youth Grange who meets basic minimum criteria, please apply.
• Junior Mentor Award/Wib and June Justi Youth Community Service Award – Sept. 1 deadline still applies
• Youth Membership Award - September 1 deadline still applies
• Grange Baseball contest will be held virtually in September. More details to come.
• GROW Club Raffle - More details will be coming about the GROW Club’s annual scholarship raffle this summer. Please check back in the Patron’s Chain newsletter to learn more.

For clarification on these programs, contact Mandy Bostwick.

COMMNICATIONS

• Communication Fellows Program - Applications for the 2020-21 Communication Fellows Program will be posted in early July. The program will begin with remote instruction in fall 2020 and run through 2021. Participants who complete the remote instruction will be sponsored to attend the 2021 National Grange Convention to complete the capstone hands-on training and receive further instruction across a variety of areas of Grange leadership, membership, programming and more.

For clarification on these programs, contact Amanda Brozana Rios.

JUNIORS

• Contests - As always, Junior contest entries may come directly to the director and need not go through a state-level contest in order to compete or be judged. These contests include (Sept. 1 deadline: Junior Historian Award, Ag Awareness, Cape of Honor, Jr Ambassador Applications. Oct. 1 deadline: digital talent show, creative art, creative writing, mini- scrapbook, photography, handy-craft, membership)
• JUNIOR AT HEART SUBMISSIONS (14+ to support the Junior Program) Remain due by October 31 with $5 tax-deductible entry fee made to Grange Foundation, MEMO LINE: Junior
• Junior community service book - Must be digitally scanned and sent to National Junior or Community Service Director. Oct. 31 deadline
• Junior quilt blocks to Chris Hamp by Oct. 31 deadline.
• State/Local directors reports – remains due to National Junior Director by October 1.
• Grange Baseball will be turned into a trivia night for Juniors- sign-ups will be in August and Contest (just for fun) will be in September. This will be done via Zoom in the same layout that the current trivia nights are being held.
• Junior Passports - new passports are being published on a regular basis, check back regularly to the Junior website or create your own to submit.
• Ambassador - States are encouraged to submit candidates for 2021 National Junior Ambassador. Deadline of September 1 still applies. Interviews will be done via a Zoom platform in October. Current Ambassadors Bryce Danko & Brianna Gervais will serve as mentors to the new team in 2021.

For clarification on these programs, contact Samantha Wilkins.

Grange Headquarters Sustain Minor Damage During Protests
By Amanda Brozana Rios, National Communications Director

During the evening of Saturday, May 30, the third night of protests in Washington D.C., the National Grange Headquarters sustained minor damage.

A rock was thrown through one of the front windows, breaking a pane and scattering glass inside. The rock landed more than 20 feet inside the building.

A red graffiti tag was painted on the front edifice that was shortly removed thanks to the White House Historical Association, whose next door building was heavily spray painted with many messages.

On Monday, June 1, building engineer Mujo Mrkonjik fixed cardboard over all the first-floor windows to reduce the possibility of further damage. Secret Service also removed some of the landscaping items outside the building they were concerned could become projectiles or be damaged.

“Today we paid the price of having a building in the heart of Washington, D.C.,” National President Betsy Huber said of the damage on a Monday evening Cultivating Connections episode, reminding member that the building is located just a half a block from the open park in front of the White House. She encouraged all members to pray for peace in the nation and our neighborhood during this time.

Streets around the building were barricaded starting Monday afternoon for most of the week, reducing traffic in the area.

No further damage was reported as of the time of this release and protests have quieted in the city.

Huber thanked all members who have given in the past to the National Grange Building Fund and those who gave in recent days.

“Our building is a treasured asset and just as we would pitch in to maintain and preserve a family home we had a stake in, members are encouraged to help where they can to keep our organization’s home in good shape,” Huber said.

National Grange Welcomes New D.C. Intern
Sean O’Neil is a rising senior studying political science and economics at The George Washington University who will be joining the Grange as an intern this summer to work on our political advocacy team. Sean is originally from Lansing, New York, a small town in the finger lakes region, where he spent his free time tending the family garden and learning about the outdoors as a Boy Scout.

Previously, Sean has interned for the office of Congressman Erik Paulsen, the Ministry of Tourism of the Republic of Indonesia, the Embassy of France to the United States, the Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Energy Association, and most recently the Military Commissions Defense Organization in the Department of Defense. Sean is very excited to join the Grange’s advocacy efforts this summer, and looks forward to learning more about agricultural and rural-focused policy.

MEMBER BENEFIT: Life Line Screening
Life Line Screening will provide Grange members with valuable information on how to become proactive about their health and their family’s health by offering a way to get high-quality health screenings that are accurate, convenient, and inexpensive.

Take advantage of a four package screening that consists of Stroke, Vascular Disease and Heart Rhythm Package, for only $135, a special price for National Grange members. For more information or to schedule a screening, call Life Line Screening toll-free at: 1-866-204-9860 to sign up.

Free Events Offered for Educators Who Seek to Add Ag to Their Curriculum

Several free virtual events, which will provide participants with an introduction to storyline approach while connecting educators with geneticists, animal scientists, ecologists and more, are available this summer!

The lessons align to Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), and each event provides immediate classroom applications and access to agricultural storylines.

Learn more and register here: https://www.onthefarmstem.com/events/livestream-events

Here is a high level overview of the events and supplemental asynchronous materials:

July 21st at 10 AM CST: High School – Genetics (approx. 3.5 hours)


• Storyline: How can we design cattle to better meet human needs? In this high school Storyline unit on genetics and heredity, students are introduced to ‘SuperCows’. As they explore the vast variety of cattle breeds, students discover that cattle are specialized for different purposes and while similar, the ‘SuperCows’ are clearly unique. Students wonder what caused this diversity and specificity which leads to investigations about the role of inheritance, DNA and proteins.
• Experience anchoring phenomena, explore Storyline Routines and connect with field experts & scientists to gain contextual knowledge of the three-dimensional learning in this unit
• Access to genetics storyline unit
• Credit options available

July 23rd at 10 AM CST: Middle School – Ecosystem Dynamics & Interactions


• Storyline: What do prairie chickens need to survive in today’s prairies? This middle school unit covering ecosystems, animal behavior and symbiosis was developed through the Storyline approach. Middle school students will be figuring out why prairie chickens have a very unique dance and understand the
• role cows play to help ensure the dance takes place. Using this approach, students engage in science concepts to help ensure the survival of the prairie chicken.
• Experience anchoring phenomena, explore Storyline Routines and connect with field experts & scientists to gain contextual knowledge of the three-dimensional learning in this unit
• Access to genetics storyline unit
• Credit options available

Asynchronous eLearning Modules


• Available immediately following events
• Three modules: Anchoring Phenomena, Navigation Routines, and Discussion Types & Talk Moves
• Support your learning and implementation of Storyline approach
• Credit options available

LAST DAY FOR GRANT APPLICATION SUBMISSIONS

Today, June 5, is the deadline to submit applications for a $100 grant from Grange Foundation for outreach and projects, events and other efforts to help your community in a variety of ways, including reducing loneliness by holding open-house virtual meetings, game nights and more in response to the COVID crisis.

Grant information can be found at grangefoundation.org/grants



Friday, June 5
@ 4:30 PM EDT
ASL/Deaf Culture: Lesson 9


@ 9:00 PM EDT
Trivia Night w/ the Grange #3

Saturday, June 6
@ 8:30 PM EDT
Date Night In 10.0

Sunday, June 7
@ 8:30 PM EDT
A look at the Communication Fellows Program

Monday, June 8
@ 8:30 PM EDT
Writing resolutions that work

Tuesday, June 9
@ 8:30 PM EDT
Effective Committees for the Subordinate Grange: Creation, Functions, and Effects

Wednesday June 10
@ 4:00 PM EDT
Anne Hazlett, Senior Advisor for Rural Affairs, Office of National Drug Control Policy, Executive Office of the President


@ 7:00 PM EDT
Join PA State Grange for BINGO (contact Lizzie at publicrelations@pagrange.org for details)

@ 9:00 PM EDT
Live drawing of Foundation COVID-19 Grants

Thursday, June 11
@ 4:00 PM EDT
Legislative Update with Burton Eller

Friday, June 12
@ 4:30 PM EDT
ASL/Deaf Culture: Lesson 10

Saturday, June 13
@ 8:30 PM EDT
Date Night In 11.0 Sunday, June 14
@ 7:30 PM EDT
Great minute-taking and the historical importance of Grange records

All livestreams are sponsored by Grange Foundation and available at any time after the close of the event at facebook.com/nationalgrange/video or at youtube.com/nationalgrange. If you have suggestions or questions, contact Amanda at communications@nationalgrange.org

JOIN US FOR TRIVIA WITH THE GRANGE TONIGHT, Friday, June 5 starting at 9 p.m. Eastern on Zoom. Bring your friends (Grange membership not required)!

Join Zoom Meeting by 8:55 p.m. Eastern by going to: bit.ly/ng-cclive-guest Pre-registration preferred but not required. To pre-register by 8 p.m. Eastern, go to bit.ly/grange-trivia



May 2020

Click on article title to open or close article.

2020 NATIONAL GRANGE CONVENTION

The National Grange Executive Committee is very sorry to announce that the 2020 National Grange Convention will have many changes because of the Covid-19 pandemic and therefore will be open for National delegates and officers only. No visitors or Grangers will be invited to attend in person this year.

The convention will be cut to two days and the only business will be voting on resolutions and electing two executive committee officers. Extra activities, such as the Evening of Excellence, Youth and Junior Public Speaking and Sign a Song, will take place virtually. The Seventh Degree will not be exemplified this year.

Other recognitions such as Community Service awards, Distinguished Grange, Grange Legacy Family, and the Quilt Block Contest, will be held and awards given, but there will be no ceremony. National Grange Department Directors will be sending out information regarding their programs and how they will be handled this year, so stay tuned!

The Valley Forge Casino Resort, site of the convention, has been closed since March 14 to this date (June 6). We don’t know when it will be permitted to open, because the counties around Philadelphia are a hot spot for the virus. The hotel is willing to allow us to downsize our convention to two days, 80 people, hopefully without penalty, so we are exercising that option at this time.

Also we do not want to endanger any of our members by asking them to travel and to spend days in a large crowd. The health and safety of our Grange family comes first. We feel it may not be safe to gather, even by November. Many of your State Sessions will see major changes this year also. We hope you will understand this decision, and keep on working at the local level as much as you can to help your communities.

Fraternally,



Betsy E. Huber
National Master



MAY 2020 WRAP-UP

Heroes

The coronavirus pandemic has reminded new generations of Americans just how critical and how basic medical care and agriculture are to our very survival. We are so grateful to the doctors, nurses, technicians, first responders, researchers, laboratories and so many more, and we're reminded how fortunate we are to live among these heroes who think of others first. These were the first wave of "critical" personnel designations. As the pandemic surrounded us, our first thought was of course about medical care. But then our second thought was about food.

The second wave of "critical" personnel designations were the food chain workers who continue in overdrive to make sure we have the food we need. Farmers, ranchers and field workers keep producing food while suffering devastating economic losses. As traditional markets disappeared, many producers are able to deliver directly to families. Others are donating their unmarketable commodities directly to food banks and community kitchens. Processing plant workers continue to do their job in close proximity at high risk. Truck drivers haul commodities from the farm and food to the stores, driving longer non-stop hours on the road passing closed restaurants and barricaded rest stops. Store clerks stock shelves and service customers putting themselves at risk. Food pantry staffs assemble boxes of staples and hand them out to long lines of those in need. So here's a big thank you shout-out to the men and women who keep America's food chain running.

Agriculture and Food

Coronavirus Payments to Farmers and Ranchers

Sign-up for USDA's Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP) funds authorized by Congress in its Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Stability Act (CARES-1) stimulus package began May 26 at local Farm Service Agency (FSA) offices nationwide. These monies are to compensate farmers and ranchers for loses due to severe price declines between January 15 and April 15, 2020. Payments will be available to producers of dairy, livestock, specialty crops (fruits and vegetables), and certain other crops (malting barley, canola corn, upland cotton, oats, millet, soybeans, sorghum, sunflowers, wheat and wool) on inventory subject to price risk held as of January 15.

Meat Processing Plants Partly Open

One of the biggest challenges in the food supply chain the past two months has been meat processing plant closures. Most of these are large facilities employing thousands of workers in a single location working in close proximity to each other. As COVID-19 spread into rural areas, workers became infected, plants closed for retrofitting and sanitization, and meat supplies became scarce at the consumer level. At the same time, animal supplies backed up at the farm level creating an economic crisis of greatly depressed prices for the producer. As of the end of Memorial Day, most plants were back in at least partial operation and retail shelves were restocked with higher priced meat. An unfortunate challenge has been the procurement of large numbers of scarce tests and supplies of personal protective equipment for food chain workers. Tests and supplies went first, as they should have, to hospitals and health care workers then next to the food and ag sector. Then, because of competition for tests and PPE from non-critical infrastructure sectors, the FDA and USDA issued an order just before Memorial Day that food and agriculture are to be given emergency priority.

Demand Surges at Small Plants

As large meat processing plants reduced processing capacity, the demand at small local custom processing plants soared. Consumer demand to fill their freezers has caused these local meat shops to be booked ahead from several months to a year.

Local Food Systems More Popular

When the food supply chain first broke down, farm prices tanked, milk was dumped and vegetables were plowed under. At the same time, interest in community-supported agriculture farms rose dramatically. These farms, known as CSAs, sell consumers subscriptions to their farm's produce before the harvest comes in. Customers get weekly or biweekly deliveries at open-air pickup points or directly at the farm.

Farm Surplus to Needy Families

Using funds from Congress' $19 billion coronavirus relief plan, USDA rolled out its "Farm to Families Food Box" never-before- tried plan in record time. The Department will use commercial companies and organizations to buy fresh produce, dairy products and meat to give to needy families across the country. Food is packed into household size boxes and trucked directly to distribution sites including schools and nonprofits.

More Funds for Feeding Programs

In addition to funds authorized by Congress for feeding programs and food banks, USDA will use its Section 32 authority (funds from Customs duties) to purchase $470 million worth of potatoes, dairy foods, chicken, pork, seafood, cherries, pears, asparagus, strawberries, turkey, prunes and raisins. This is on top of USDA's budgeted Section 32 purchases for the year. These commodities will go to feeding programs (SNAP, Women, Infants & Children, etc.) and food banks.

Rural Children Get Five Million Meals a Week

A public-private partnership is now serving five times the number of meals per week it initially projected to feed low-income kids in rural areas. USDA's Meals to You initiative has been greatly expanded with expertise and help from Baylor University, McLane Global and PepsiCo. Meals to You boxes contain 20 meals to cover the amount of food a child normally receives at school over two school weeks. Boxes are delivered directly to the child's doorstep by the U.S. Postal Service and other delivery services.

FDA and USDA Prepare for Peak Harvest Season

FDA and USDA will cooperate and coordinate regulations to facilitate food supplies movement through the food chain and assure consumers have access to a safe and robust food supply. To prevent bottlenecks and back-ups, USDA will use its authority under the Defense Production Act to assume some of FDA's statutory duties to regulate facilities that manufacture, process, pack, hold, grow or harvest foods.

Economic Crisis Response

HEROES Act Passes House

In response to the economic crisis created by the COVID-19 pandemic, the House of Representatives passed a $3.2 billion CARES-2 coronavirus relief package termed the HEROES Act in mid-May. Provisions in HEROES include:
• Fiscal relief for local and state governments
• Rent and mortgage assistance
• Authorization for a new round of stimulus checks for individuals and families
• Extension of unemployment benefits
• Help for workers to obtain testing and PPP equipment
• More broadband deployment targeted to rural, low-income and vulnerable communities
• Additional funds for testing, tracing and treatment
• U.S. Postal Service operating funds
• Additional feeding programs funding
• Funds to cover payments to biofuel plants, local agriculture and additional payments to farmers and ranchers to cover losses in the second quarter of this year (current CARES-1 payments cover only January 15-April 15).
• Expansion of the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) to nonprofits like the Grange and extends PPP loan forgiveness to 24 weeks.

The Senate will consider its own new relief package in June after it assesses the successes and failures from the first CARES-1 stimulus funds.

Grants and Loans for Agribusiness

The Small Business Administration has extended eligibility for grants and low-interest, long-term loans to small agribusinesses. This reverses a 30 year prohibition preventing SBA from providing disaster assistance to agricultural businesses.

Rural Businesses Eligible for USDA Loan Guarantees

USDA is making $1 billion in loan guarantees available to support rural businesses, including producers, with working capital to respond to the effects of the coronavirus pandemic. The program is specifically available to rural businesses and producers who do not qualify for Farm Service Agency loans.

Health Care

Rural Health Support Needed

As the Hill prepared to write various coronavirus relief packages, the National Grange and several rural organizations called on the Senate and House leadership and the Congressional Rural caucus to consider several urgent rural issues, including:
• Increase Medicare payments to rural hospitals and clinics
• Allow for 90-day refills on critical prescription drugs
• Protect air medical services to transport patients between rural areas and Tier I and II trauma centers
• Address out-of-network billing for the duration of the pandemic and a reasonable recovery period afterwards
• Expedite broadband emergency and short term deployment to unserved and underserved areas
• Fund the Postal Service as necessary to meet rural delivery demands stemming from the pandemic.

Rural Health Care Providers Get Emergency Funds

The Department of Health and Human Services is distributing $10 billion to rural hospitals and clinics responding to patients with COVID-19. Nearly half the rural hospitals across the country were struggling financially before the pandemic. Many have had to close because healthy patients delayed care and hospitals canceled elective surgeries.

Treating Pain Sensibly

The National Grange and a large group of patient advocate organizations wrote the Food and Drug Administration and the National Institutes of Health to continue priority development of individualized approaches for treating pain and to concentrate in particular on non-addictive options. The letter pointed out that pain from migraines, endometriosis, osteoarthritis, lower back pain, acute injuries and surgeries are all different, and each type of pain may require different medicines and treatment plans.

Grange Applauds Innovative Cancer Treatment Approval

The National Grange issued a statement thanking the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid for approving a rule change that allows patients undergoing innovative cancer treatment known as CAR-T to receive reimbursement and have their treatment closer to home. The National Grange and state Granges in Kansas, North Carolina, Oklahoma and Ohio had called on CMS to certify treatment in facilities other than in a few major metropolitan centers which created significant hurdles for rural individuals

Post Office Challenges

The United States Postal Service is in the middle of a public policy controversy: continue to depend upon federal government loans and grants for operating expenses, or raise fees, reduce service, improve performance and retool management? The Postal Service's accumulated operating debt is huge at $160.9 billion, and the CARES-1 relief package increased its borrowing authority from the Treasury Department by $10 billion. The HEROES Act Passed by the House gives the Postal Service $25 billion in financial relief but its fate is uncertain in the Senate. Grangers, especially in rural areas during the pandemic, are fortunate to have the "essential service" mail man bring food, prescription drugs, clothes, supplies, notices, business staples, distance learning materials and much more. The Grange certainly will be engaged in future policy discussions about revamping and revitalizing the Postal Service. For now, the National Grange is asking Congress to fund the USPS as necessary to continue its current level of service through the coronavirus pandemic and for a reasonable recovery period afterward.

Telecommunications

Tougher on Robocalls

The telecommunications industry is working collaboratively across wireline, wireless, VoIP and cable companies to actively trace and identify the source of illegal robocalls through its Industry Traceback Group. The ITG also coordinates with federal and state agencies to identify non-cooperative providers for enforcement action. In addition, the Federal Communications Commission will no longer warn illegal robocallers before issuing penalties for violating the law.

Broadband in TV White Space

Thirty four organizations joined the National Grange to support Federal Communications Commission rulemaking to bridge the digital divide. The comments filed with the FCC supported updating unlicensed TV white space rules to clear regulatory barriers and maximize spectrum resources. The updated rules will enhance the use of hybrid networks for broadband deployment to rural areas.

Hill Hearing Focuses on Broadband Amid Pandemic

National Grange President Betsy Huber issued a statement of support to the Senate Commerce Committee for holding the hearing on "The State of Broadband amid the COVID-19 Pandemic." The Grange supports longer term solutions for high speed broadband deployment into unserved and underserved rural areas, but emphasizes the critical need for emergency short term connectivity such as community hot spots and hybrid networks in preparation for this coming fall and winter demand for critical distance learning and telemedicine.

Perspective

The glory of gardening: hands in the dirt, head in the sun, heart with nature. To nurture a garden is to feed not just the body but the soul. ~ Alfred Austin

Remember that children, marriages and flower gardens reflect the kind of care they get. ~ M. Jackson Brown Jr.

A weed is a plant that has mastered every survival skill except for learning how to grow in rows. ~ Doug Larson

Digging potatoes is always an adventure, somewhat like fishing. There is forever the possibility that the next cast - or the next thrust of the digging fork - will turn up a clunker. ~ Jerome Belanger

Everything that slows us down and forces patience, everything that sets us back in the slow circles of nature, is a help. Gardening is an instrument of grace. ~ May Sarton

It is difficult to think anything but pleasant thoughts while eating a homegrown tomato. ~ Lewis Grizzard

Feedback and questions are welcome. Call Burton Eller, at (202) 628-3507 ext. 114 or email beller@nationalgrange.org



Corrected Deputy Assignments Districts 4 and 6

There was a mistake in the list and map for the Deputy District Assignments. The correct information is:

District 1: Dwight Winegar Email: DeputyDistrict1@CAStateGrange.org Counties: Del Norte, Humboldt, Mendocino and Lake

District 2: Will Shaw Email: DeputyDistrict2@CAStateGrange.org Counties: Siskiyou, Modoc, Trinity, Shasta and Lassen

District 3: Unassigned Counties: Tehama, Butte, Plumas, Glenn, Butte, Colusa, Yuba, Sutter, Sierra and Nevada

District 4: Mitch Clouse Email: DeputyDistrict4@CAStateGrange.org Counties: Alpine, Amador, Calaveras, El Dorado, Placer, Yolo, Sacramento, San Joaquin

District 5: Lawrence Jaffe Email: DeputyDistrict5@CAStateGrange.org Counties: Sonoma, Napa, Marin, Solano, Contra Costa, Alameda

District 6: Steven Hood Email: DeputyDistrict6@CAStateGrange.org Counties: Stanislaus, Tuolumne, Mariposa, Mono, Merced, Madera, Fresno, Kings, Tulare, Inyo, and Kern

District 7: Unassigned Counties: San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, San Benito, Monterey

District 8: Reg Corella and Kevin Bennett Email: Reg Corella: DeputyDistrict8A@CAStateGrange.org Keven Bennett: DeputyDistrict8B2CAStateGrange.org Counties: San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura

District 9: Unassigned Counties: Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Riverside, Orange, San Diego and Imperial

For Districts without an assigned Deputy yet, please contact Jan Saxton, JSaxton@CAStateGrange.org or Lillian Booth, LBooth@CAStateGrange.org for assistance

A corrected map is shown below. Please feel free to reach out to the Deputy assigned to your area with questions or concerns. The State Grange team is happy to help.

California State Grange District Map
Click on map to open in new tab.



MAY 22, 2020


Take Action Now! Help save the USPS

By National Grange Legislative Director Burton Eller

Grange members are concerned about the future of United States Post Office mail delivery especially to rural routes. The Postal Service has been running on a deficit budget supported by government loans in recent years. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, USPS now projects a 50% drop in business and revenues. While the National Grange has long supported a self-sufficient Postal Service, no business can survive such a loss without emergency funding.

The Postal Service is fundamental in this time of emergency. It delivers prescriptions, household and business staples, groceries, meals to rural school children, Personal Protective Equipment, greeting cards and personal correspondence to bridge social distancing.

The House of Representatives passed another stimulus package (HEROES Act) on May 15 that added $25 billion to make up for lost USPS revenue. This legislation now goes to the Senate for its consideration in June. Grange members are urged to voice their support for emergency Postal Service funding directly to their U.S. Senators by June 1.

How to weigh in with your Senators:

• Go to this National Grange link: https://www.nationalgrange.org/contact-your-representatives/
• House of Representatives will appear
• Scroll down to U.S. Senators
• Click on U.S. Senators
• Choose a state
• Choose one of your two senators
• Click contact the Senator
• Click share/message
• Click your personal information
• Click your personal message
• Leave your personal message about the Post Office
• Repeat this process with your second senator

Regional Leaders, Youth, Junior conferences canceled; contingency plan released

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, all regional conferences have been canceled for the health and safety of our members.

National Grange Youth and Junior Grange Directors have established a contingency plan for members to still be able to participate in regional public speaking and Sign-a-Song contests which are required in order to take part in the national competitions. Contestants must sign up by June 15, 2020 in order to participate in the July contests. Contests will be held via Zoom on July 18-19. All Grangers of any age are welcome to participate. Only Junior and Youth/Young Adult participants will qualify for Best of Show.



Grange can be attractive place for connections, membership for producers

By National Grange Membership & Leadership Development Director Joe Stefenoni

Since COVID-19 social distancing and shelter in place measures began we have all experienced the hurt of not being able to meet together, talk together, work together, and in general, acting together for our mutual protection and advancement. We have also been seeing the incredible work that Community Granges are doing across the country finding the best way to continue advancing the mission of the Grange. Some areas are fortunate enough that some restrictions are beginning to be lifted slowly while other areas are still looking at least another month of shelter in place and social distancing restrictions.

Regardless of what stage of reopening your area is in, all Granges need to find ways to be active in the community in a safe and responsible way. This applies to both our fraternal connections as well as our fundraising efforts. We are seeing examples all across the country. Many Community Granges have transitioned their events to “drive-throughs.” From dinners to plant sales, these drive through style events allow Granges to maintain their visibility, continue to raise funds for their mission and make sure everyone stays in a safe and healthy position. Be sure to consult with local, county and/or state health officials for the full guidelines on safe and sound practices.

This is also an opportunity to make connections with local farmers and ranchers who have produce, livestock or other products to sell. The Grange has a long history of advancing agriculture and bringing producer and consumer together. For producers who have been negatively affected by supply chain interruptions, Community Granges can be the hub to help these producers distribute their products to those who need them.

JOIN US FOR TRIVIA WITH THE GRANGE TONIGHT!

By National Grange Communications & Development Director Amanda Brozana Rios

9 p.m. Eastern on Zoom.

Join Zoom Meeting by 8:55 p.m. Eastern by going to: bit.ly/ng-cclive-guest

Pre-registration preferred but not required. To pre-register by 8 p.m. Eastern, go to bit.ly/grange-trivia

Everyone will be assigned a team if they have not already registered with a team. Four rounds of questions with one or two Grange questions per round. A great event to invite friends to attend who have not yet joined the Grange!

Friday, May 22
@ 6:30 PM EDT
ASL/Deaf Culture: Lesson 7


@ 9:00 PM EDT
Trivia Night w/ the Grange #2

Saturday May 23
@ 8:30 PM EDT
Date Night IN 8.0

Sunday, May 24
@ 7:30 PM EDT
Grange Memorabilia Show & Tell

Monday, May 25
@ 8:00 PM EDT
Quilts of Valor w/ QoV Exec. Dir. Tammany McDaniel, Chris Hamp and QoV recipients, Bill Booth & Dwight Baldwin

Tuesday, May 26
@ 6:00 PM EDT
Our Grange Trademark w/ Attorney Jim Bikoff

Wednesday, May 27
@ 7:00 PM EDT
BINGO - HOSTED BY PA STATE GRANGE

@ 8:30 PM EDT
How to Apply for Grange Foundation Grants

Thursday, May 28
@ 4:00 PM EDT
Legislative Update w/ Burton Eller

Friday, May 29
@ 6:30 PM EDT
ASL/Deaf Culture: Lesson 8

Saturday, May 30
@ 8:30 PM EDT
Date Night In 9.0

Sunday, May 31
@ 6:00 PM EDT
What does it take to Start or Reorganize a Grange? w/ Joe Stefenoni (INVITE FRIENDS IN AREAS WHERE THERE ARE NO GRANGES!)

Monday, June 1
@ 6:00 PM EDT
2020 Convention Update w/ National Master Huber

Tuesday, June 2
@ 6:30 PM EDT
Live Virtual Tour of Jordan Dairy Farm

Wednesday, June 3
@ 4:00 PM EDT
Legislative Update w/ Burton Eller

@ 7:00 PM EDT
BINGO - HOSTED BY PA STATE GRANGE

Thursday, June 4
@ 8:00 PM EDT
How the Youth Leadership Fund Changes Lives w/ Mandy Bostwick and several familiar faces!

Friday, June 5
@ 6:30 PM EDT
ASL/Deaf Culture: Lesson 9

@ 9:00 PM EDT
Trivia Night w/ the Grange #3

Saturday, June 6
@ 8:30 PM EDT
Date Night In 10.0

All livestreams are available at any time after the close of the event at facebook.com/nationalgrange/live or on our YouTube channel. If you have suggestions or questions, contact Amanda at communications@nationalgrange.org

Financial Assistance to Farmers and Ranchers Ready for Signup

The $9.5 billion in funding provided in the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Stability (CARES) Act to compensate farmers and ranchers for losses due to price declines is set to roll out. Another $6.5 billion is available through the Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC).

Producers may apply for this assistance beginning on May 26 through their local Farm Service Agency (FSA) office. Documentation to support the producer’s application will be requested. Payments will be made on these criteria:

Dairy: Calculations will be made on milk production for the first quarter multiplied by the national price decline during the same quarter.

Livestock: Cattle, hogs and lambs payments will be calculated on the number of livestock sold between January 15 and April 15 multiplied by the payment rates per head.

Specialty Crops: Payments will be based on volume of production sold, and the number of acres for which production did not leave the farm (destroyed, unharvested) between January 15 and April 15.

Other crops: Malting barley, canola, corn, upland cotton, millet, oats, soybeans, sorghum, sunflowers, certain wheat and wool are eligible for payments based on inventory subject to price risk held as of January 15.

Payments will be disbursed at 80% of a producer’s maximum amount. The remaining portion will be paid at a later date if sufficient funds remain available.

GRANGE BENEFIT: Prescription savings cards

Rx Pharmacy Card provided by CVS Caremark (also for pet prescriptions) –program offers the RxSavings Plus Card, a NO FEE exclusive benefit to National Grange members that is not offered to the public. The RxSavings Card allows members to go to almost any pharmacy. Unlike other savings plans, the CVS-Caremark program applies to 99% of prescription drugs. Save on Lipitor, Viagra, Plavix, high blood pressure medications and thousands more—even pet medications! For the Rx Card Program, go to http://nationalgrange.rxsavingsplus.com. If your pet has been prescribed a medication, you may get a discount with the RxSavingPlus Prescription Discount Card at a participating pharmacy. During your pet’s examination ask if the treatment plan they are recommending includes medications that are also used to treat human conditions If so, you can request a written prescription from your veterinarian instead of the veterinarian clinic providing the medications

Still doing outreach during COVID crisis?

Please continue to send information about your Grange’s outreach and projects, events and other efforts to help your community in a variety of ways, including reducing loneliness by holding open-house virtual meetings, game nights and more, to intern@nationalgrange.org. Then use that information to apply for a $100 grant from Grange Foundation – DUE: JUNE 5!



MAY 15, 2020

Brightening someone’s day can brighten your own

By National Grange President Betsy Huber

This week I want to again remind you of our theme for this year, “Cultivating Connections,” and highlight a Junior Grange that understands what that means in this time of stay-at-home.

I received a letter this week from Junior Grange #236 in Washington with “Pictures to Help You Smile.” The enclosed letter said:

“We ask our kids to help bring a moment of joy to people in our Grange community. I am sending this to you as for some reason with everything happening with the Covid-19 I thought you could use a gift from our Jr. Grange #236. We hope these art pieces bring you a moment of peace…. Some of our kids are having a hard time and wanted to bring joy to others.”

Thank you to Trinity, Kendra and Annabelle and their leader Beth Bradly for this wonderful gift! What a great example to other Juniors and adults as well.

Instead of sitting at home getting depressed with nothing to do, why not brighten someone’s day with a note or picture? Another Grange member, a shut-in family member, an essential worker who is helping us all, anyone!

Along that same subject, be sure to read the article in this issue about Operation Graduation. Our graduates are very disappointed that they can’t celebrate this big milestone in their lives, whether it be graduating from kindergarten, middle school, high school, or college. Please help us brighten their days by sending names and addresses on the enclosed form so we can recognize them from the National Grange. We hope their Community Granges will also honor them with notes, messages, or phone calls.

Cultivate those connections especially during these times when we can’t get together. Please follow your Governor’s rulings about gathering together and be safe!

OPERATION GRADUATION launched; your assistance needed

By National Grange Community Service Director Pete Pompper

As much as things have changed because of COVID-19 many of you have accepted the challenge and have not only adapted but have gone above and beyond in your communities. I personally applaud all of you and you will be further recognized at a different time.

What I want to discuss in this article is what I am calling “Operation Graduation” which is going to be a way for the Grange to recognize school graduates this year. The Grange from its beginning has stressed the importance of education for our members. It is even mentioned in our Degree work for its importance in the home and field. I have discussed this with several Grange leaders and we all agree this program will be a good way to honor Grange members. Some of you will soon be receiving an email about this program and I hope you will return the information requested.

“Operation Graduation” is a program where personal letters will be sent to Grange members who have graduated from Kindergarten, 8th grade, High School or College. We all believe a personal letter is a wonderful way to let our Grange graduates know we are thinking of them. Many will not have a normal graduation ceremony this year and will be missing that important milestone. This is an opportunity for us to help put a little normalcy in their lives.

National Grange President Betsy and National Grange Junior Director Samantha will be signing/sending a letter to the Kindergarten and 8th grade graduates. Betsy and National Grange Youth Director Mandy will be signing/sending letters for high school and college graduates. I encourage Granges to also send letters to any of their members who are graduating. I hope that when we can get back to our halls that you will invite these members and honor them at a meeting or dinner. I look forward to seeing what you do. I am sure it will be done well as Grangers do whatever we do.

Keep up the good work and please keep track of all you are doing for your community during these times. Nothing is too big or too small to count. These numbers need to be included in your community service reports-- whether it is number of hours or amount of items made, they all count. On the National Grange level we need to keep track of these numbers to use when we are talking to other groups or organizations when promoting the Grange.

Youth takeover monthly Membership Matters Zoom; all invited to attend

By National Grange Membership & Leadership Development Director Joe Stefenoni

The May edition of the Membership Matters meeting will be a takeover by the National Grange Youth Team! Our National Grange Youth Ambassadors and Young Patrons will be leading a discussion on training the next generation of Grange leaders and sharing their perspectives on the topic.

As was announced last month, we will transition the Membership Matters meeting onto the National Grange's Facebook page as a live video as well as the National Grange YouTube channel. Please note, you do not need a Facebook or YouTube account to be able to view the video.

To view the video and join in on the discussion, follow one of these links:

The event WILL NOT appear before we are live, because of course, we are live.

If there are any questions, please feel free to email me. I hope we have another large attendance with lively discussion for our National Grange Youth leaders

New week, new live events on Grange Cultivating Connections schedule

By National Grange Communications & Development Director Amanda Brozana Rios

Our first trivia night held Friday, May 5, was a success with more than 40 people in attendance. I was so excited to see a friend who I have teamed with for trivia in my hometown join us for the evening. While she was the only person taking part who was not a Grange member, she was convinced by the end of the evening that the Grange is fun and a group she wants to be part of. Thank you to her team for making her feel at home and thank you to everyone who participated. This is just more proof that inviting your friends and community to attend these virtual events is a great way to introduce them to our organization and increase your membership.

TRIVIA NIGHT WITH THE GRANGE

As she said later: “I’m not sure I would have gone to a Grange meeting. I don’t mind strangers, but I hate being the only one in the room who doesn’t know everyone else, but this wasn’t bad. We were all in our own homes and comfortable, so it was easy to just have fun. Thank you so much for letting me be part of it and feeling like life was getting back to a little more normal.”

We will hold a second trivia night on Friday, May 22 starting at 9 p.m. Eastern. Please invite your friends – including those who have not yet joined the Grange. Feel free to use the photo accompanying this article OR CLICK HERE to download it and send it to your friends.

As before, most questions are general knowledge. There will be a few Grange questions per round. Prizes will be awarded for the top three teams.

If you would like to put a team together (up to 8 people) in advance you can register at bit.ly/grange-trivia or you can register as an individual or small group (2-4 people) and you will be assigned a team or additional team members on Friday evening.

The schedule of live videos is as follows:

4:30 PM EDT Fri. May 15 Introduction to ASL/Deaf Culture (Lesson 5)

8:30 PM EDT Sat. May 16 Date Night In 7.0, a virtual Grange talent show

7:00 PM Sunday, May 17 Long Term Care: Planning for Loved Ones and Self with Attorney John Griffin

12:00 PM EDT Mon. May 18 BINGO with NC State Grange. Contact Jessica for card and details at jlhorton@ncgrange.com

5:00 PM EDT Mon. May 19 Pete Pompper, National Community Service Director, talking about Operation Graduation

8:30 PM EDT Mon. May 19 ZOOM Membership Matters. Log in by phone or online

5:00 PM EDT Mon. May 20 Mark O’Brien, an addiction and recovery expert, with RALI talking about opioid addiction and rural areas

4:00 PM EDT Mon. May 21 Legislative Update with Burton Eller

All livestreams are available at any time after the close of the event at facebook.com/nationalgrange/live or on our YouTube channel. If you have suggestions or questions, contact Amanda at communications@nationalgrange.org

What are Granges doing for their communities in the face of COVID?

Cape Fear Grange #1296, Fayetteville, NC

Friends of Fayetteville’s Front Lines is a special project of Cape Fear Grange to face the unprecedented crisis of COVID-19 with boldness and ingenuity to create a greater sense of community. Cape Fear Grange & Friends of Fayetteville’s Front Lines are providing meals to Cape Fear Valley Medical Center’s medical personnel at their workplace during these precarious times. The meals, served weekly, are purchased from Fayetteville's locally owned restaurants. Participating restaurants are not asked to provide a discount — we are purchasing meals at fair market value, including delivery, tax, and tip. The first meal was served on April 9 and they plan that the project will last for approximately 10 weeks. The Grange relies on logistical support from the Cape Fear Valley Health Foundation, as local restaurant workers and Grange members cannot enter the hospital.

To date, nearly $11,000 has been raised from local businesses and individuals. Sponsorships start at $500 and contributors donate $1-$499. Sponsors include a large car dealership, the city's utility company, security system company, mortgage company, two local churches, NC State Grange, Cape Fear Grange, and five individuals/couples. Currently, eight donors have been secured at the contributor level.

Mary’s River Grange #685, Philomath, OR

Mary’s River Grange has resurrected an element of Grange fraternalism of yesteryear by establishing a Relief Committee with Brother Sonny Hays-Ebert taking lead. The Relief Committee is helping people with shopping, laundry, picking up over the counter drugs, animal care and other services.

Mary’s River Grange has offered the use of their Grange hall for emergency needs, and other members are forming telephone groups that will call each other regularly to provide a small level of comfort for those who are isolated. They have also donated plants they started to a local food garden and are working with a local farm to distribute seed potatoes to the community and food garden.

Alamo Grange #1446, San Antonio, TX

Alamo Grange member and Texas State Grange President Karen Overstreet used her experience as a retired teacher to help ensure that area children continued to learn and feel a sense of normalcy during these events. She and other Grange members planned lessons, combined materials, textbooks and supplies so parents could drive by and pick up a packet to take home.

London Grange #937, Cottage Grove, OR

On April 27, London Grange handed out free masks at the London School Student Pick Up Day.

Valley Grange #1360, Lewisberry, PA

Valley Grange presented a monetary donation to Mamma’s Pizza of Wellsville (a local pizza shop near their Grange hall) for their commitment to providing lunches to children in the community and to local Health Care providers during this pandemic.

Progress Grange #96, Centre Hall, PA

Progress Grange, in conjunction with the YMCA and Penns Valley Hope Fund, is distributing weekend food bags to those families in need in their area and are also offering, at no cost, soup, a sandwich, and a treat to seniors and veterans. They began on April 10th and initially served 30 families and delivered 70 senior and Veterans meals afterwards.

Silverton Grange #748, Silverton, OR

On May 3rd, Silverton Grange hosted a virtual candidate forum on Zoom. More details to come in the next issue of Good Day! magazine.

Central Nevada Grange #23, Tonopah, NV

The quilters group of Central Nevada Grange has been busy making masks and other personal protective equipment (PPE) for a clinic in Chehalis, Washington where a Grange member works as well as for local grocery stores and EMTs.

Other members of Central Nevada Grange have been working to provide local children with kits that include paper, scissors, pencils and crayons to help keep them engaged while schools are closed. The children of the area struggle to access learning tools online because of little or no access to broadband internet said Deb Mullen Cobb, a member of Central Nevada Grange.

Linganore Grange #410, Mount Airy, MD

Linganore Grange has created a food pantry on the front porch of their Grange Hall at the beginning of April for anyone that has a need. Members restock the pantry as needed.

Cibolo Grange #1541,Cibolo, TX

Cibolo Grange members have been making face masks for their community. At the end of April, Grange members set up a table at the farmers market to distribute masks to the community. They are approaching 1000 masks. They offered two per family for free.

Quimper Grange #270, Port Townsend, WA

Quimper Grange maintains one of the eight community gardens in Jefferson County, Washington that provides food to area food banks. In 2019, these eight gardens collectively produced at least 6,000 pounds of fresh produce that was donated to food banks in the Port Townsend, Tri-Area, Brinnon and Quilcene area.

The Quimper Grange garden produces tomatoes, lettuce and spinach among other crops. They provide mixes of vegetables for salads and stir-frys. “We try to find things we know people are missing,” said Jo Yount, supervisor at the Quimper Grange garden. “What I like about our food banks is that they’re for everyone,” she said. “If you come in and say you need food, you get food.” 3000 pounds of food was produced and donated to area food banks by the Quimper Grange garden alone in 2019.

Yount works with about 15 regular volunteers to design a space that is regenerative, healthy and produces lots of food for the community.

Source: https://www.ptleader.com/stories/fresh-from-the-garden-to-the-food-bank,6902

Corvallis Grange #17, Hamilton, MT

Corvallis Grange used their Grange hall as a site for a Red Cross blood drive.

See more about hosting a blood drive in the newest edition of the Lecturers’ newsletter, A Quarter’s Worth. Contact your State Lecturer to receive a copy or National Grange Lecturer Chris Hamp at lecturer@nationalgrange.org.

Stanford Grange #808, Stanfordville, NY

Stanford Grange has been maintaining a food pantry at their Grange hall since February for the community to utilize. The Grange goes shopping for around $750 worth of food per week and the community also donates products and produce to stock the pantry. On May 10th they gave away 100 spaghetti and meatball dinners to the community at no charge and are planning more community dinners in the upcoming weeks.

SUBORDINATE MANUAL

2013 edition of the Grange Subordinate Manual (soft covered) includes the Alternative Manual, Welcoming Ceremony, and Installation Ceremony. Includes revised pages per recent delegate action. Only $10, plus shipping

Order online at grangestore.com or by calling Loretta at (202) 628-3507 ext. 109



In 2017, the California State Grange at its Annual Session adopted a resolution submitted by Wyandotte Grange No. 490 to establish a new non-profit foundation. This resolution was adopted by the delegates to the Session.

At the October 2019 Annual Session, the delegates adopted the Articles of Incorporation for the California State Grange Foundation. The first meeting of the Foundation was held, and it was approved to submit to the IRS our application for non-profit status as a 501(c)(3) corporation. That application was just approved by the IRS.

At a meeting of the Board of Directors of the Foundation on December 1st, 2019, Steven Hood was elected at President of the Board, William Booth was elected as Board Secretary, Martha Stefenoni was elected at Treasurer. Erica Krosen was elected as Vice President of the Board.

President Hood and the whole Board of Directors are very excited that we now have a Foundation available to the Granges in California and to further the work of the Grange. Watch for more information in the near future.

Download a copy of the approval letter.



Edwina Lois (Wheat-Hood) Woolard

Our long-time Grange Sister, Edwina Lois (Wheat – Hood) Woolard passed away at 6:40 AM on May 9, 2020, at Saint Agnes Medical Center in Fresno after having been ill several months. She was 76 years old. She was born July 11, 1943, in Hanford, California, to Edgar and Lois Wheat. She grew up with her sister, Ann, in the country in between Laton and Riverdale, attending Laguna Grammar School and Laton High School. She attended College of the Sequoias in Visalia and Fresno State.

Edwina retired from teaching a few years back. She started out teaching at Laton Elementary for a few years before moving to Fresno, where she taught at Winchell Elementary. A move down to Riverdale had her transfer to teaching at Fipps Primary School. She returned to Fresno in 1987 and finished her teaching career at Del Mar Elementary School.

Edwina's love for the Grange, her energy and creativity touched everyone she met. She was an active member of the Grange at all levels for over 50 years, having been half of the California State Grange’s Young Couple of the Year in 1975, and served as Junior Grange Director and Director of Youth Activities for the California State Grange at different times. She also was Past Master (President) of both Riverdale Grange and the Fresno-Madera Pomona Grange. She has most recently been an active member of Central Union Grange #559 in Lemoore and Central California Pomona Grange #28.

While living in Riverdale, Edwina churched at Riverdale United Methodist Church. After moving to Fresno, she transferred to St. Luke’s UMC, which became the Palm Campus of Campus Bible Church. Making many life-long friends in both congregations.

She is survived by her three children, Steven, Shawn, and Erin Hood, three granddaughters, ShyAnne, Amanda, and Samantha Hood, and her sister, Ann Larson. She was preceded in death by her parents, Edgar and Lois Wheat, and her husband, Thomas Woolard. Edwina’s remains will be cremated and there will be a memorial get-together at a later time, after the COVID-19 situation will allow gatherings of this type. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting requested donations be made to the California State Grange Foundation, 3830 U Street, Sacramento CA 95817.



May Extravaganza - All Youth Swine Exhibitors

Message from Samantha Waterbury, Swine Leader for Manzanita Grange (Butte County, California)

Hello,

As a member of Manzanita Grange and hog breeder (thanks to all the advisors that helped me along the way), I was extremely saddened by the cancellation of events and fairs. Several colleagues and I got together and created a hog show for kids to enter in from all over the country and we want to get the word out. Whether your pig is 50lbs or 300lbs we want to give them the opportunity to look forward to a “show.”

Thank you,

Samantha Waterbury

CULTIVATING CONNECTIONS

This is an event created by various groups who came together to help the Youth Exhibitors far and wide. As our CA State Grange Youth Fair Director, Tacy Currey, says "We Grangers don't take 'we can't'. We find work arounds!."

Spread the word. This is for all Grange, 4-H, FFA, and Independent Swine exhibitors. Good luck everyone!!




MAY 8, 2020

Uncertain times and anxious minds
By Samantha Wilkins, National Junior Grange Director

All of us, I can be pretty certain of that, never thought we would see times like these.

As adults we worry about a lot of the uncertainties, will the grocery stores run out of meat? Will the prices go sky high? Will I still have my job next week? Or if we are out of work the worry about when we will get to go back to work? We are concerned about our elderly members and those with compromised immune systems. We worry about what the next White House briefing will say.

We worry! It is our new normal, and that is ok for what it is.

We take these times one day at a time. We try to obey each and every new regulation that seems to be changing on a daily basis. I know personally I have spent many nights worrying. I have worried about mine and my husband’s jobs, the Grange building, our health, my parents health, but I think more than any of that I have worried about my children.

Yes, these times are extremely uncertain, things change from day to day-- heck, even hour to hour. But as adults we can process that a bit easier. These times are unlike any we have ever faced and our children can sense and feel our worry more than we usually give them credit for. Typically when I am stressed over something I talk to my husband or call my best friend to vent. That’s the easy thing to do. Children don’t have that out as easily as we do. We can express ourselves. In the early developmental years children are still trying to process and understand their thoughts, never mind them actually trying to vocalize what they are feeling.

As our routines have changed here are some tips and tricks to help your children cope with an anxious mind:

• Have them write in a journal- write one sentence a day about their day or their feelings. (If unable to write they can draw a picture to emulate their feelings. They can also use their devices to create a video journal- one minute a day. This video by the Atlantic is a great representation of how a video journal could be. The focus is on kids during the Pandemic: https://youtu.be/kLOZ4KcEJtc
• Set up a zoom meeting (or other virtual video platform) for a time to meet with their friends and/or their family or even with their Junior Granges. If you are unsure how to set up a meeting visit the link to the Communications. Department guidelines on how to set up a virtual meeting. Children that also play video games can connect with children from their school or other family members to play a game and chat.
• Find a fun indoor activity to do as a family.
   o Participate in the Junior contests (and Junior at Heart contests)
   o Play a board game together
   o Build a fort for a family movie night
   o Have them help you bake a special treat to deliver to a neighbor
   o Create or do a Junior Grange Passport
   o Possibilities are endless
• Find an outdoor activity to do as a family.
   o Plant a garden/flower bed
   o Hunt for worms
   o Blow bubbles
   o Create an obstacle course
   o Just being outdoors together is good for the mind, body, and soul.

As parents and grandparents/caregivers we do everything we can to protect our children. In order to protect our children from physical harm, we buy car seats, we childproof everything, we teach them to swim, and yes; we hover. How though, do we protect our children against future anguish? For that matter, what do you do if your child seems overwhelmed by life in the here and now?

I am not a child mental health expert, but I have taken a line from our school guidance counselors, teachers, pediatricians, and even my own observations as a mom of four crazy and rambunctious boys.

My children range in ages from 5-13, meaning that they cover a broad spectrum of differences as well as the entire Junior Grange age range. None of us have the absolute answers but if your child is showing any signs of anxiety or depression we recommend you not only reach out to your family physician but also contact your school/school district’s guidance counselors. There are so many ideas and ways that they can advise you in order to be able to help your child. Begin with the following:

Things you must do:

• Turn off the News
• Limit time on the computer or other devices
• Talk to your children - (Ask them pointed questions. i.e. How are you feeling? Are you worried about anything? What makes you happy? etc.) Our family does this at dinner- we go around and tell our highs and lows of the day. We have changed this a bit to ask more pointed questions like the ones above.
• Put away all devices and spend time together not focused on work or school.
• Most of all be HONEST with your children. If they ask about the pandemic answer their questions. Studies have shown that parents who were more open and honest about a crisis (personal or national) like 9-11 or the Boston Marathon Bombings had children who grew up to be less anxious as young adults. Parents that were not open and honest had children that suffered more with different forms of anxiety and depression.

Note to Parents/Caregivers - You are doing good -no you are doing great! These times are hard and frustrating for us all. Below is a list of reminders put together by a local school district that serve as important reminders for parent/caregivers:


• I am not homeschooling. I am doing my best to help my kids learn at home during a crisis.
• I cannot be as productive as normal because these are not normal times. I will focus on what I can accomplish in just the next 24 hours and let go of what I cannot accomplish right now.
• Now is not the time to clamp down and control my child’s day. Now is the time to collaborate with my child on a schedule that works for the whole family.
• It is okay if my schedule does not go as planned every day. Every day is an opportunity to fine-tune what is working and eliminate what is not working.
• My child is not giving me a hard time; they are having a hard time.
• Behavior is communication, and my child is “telling” me they need support.
• The teachable moment about behavioral expectations is never in the “heat” of the moment. I must calm my child through empathy first, then find strategies to help them cope with their strong feelings.

Understanding these times is difficult for all of us; know that your Grange family is here for you during these times. If you have a question or concern or comment you would like us to address please feel free to reach out to me at Samantha@nationalgrange.org

National Grange releases a guide to "distance meetings"
By Amanda Brozana-Rios, Communications & Development Director

On May 1, the National Grange released a guide to “virtual meetings” or meetings at a distance, which includes visual, step-by-step instructions for establishing meetings and etiquette information for these type of meetings. The guide also has some suggestions about running a meeting in this format.

“Every member can participate, so long as they have at least a land-line phone,” National Grange President Betsy Huber said. “The numerous options and detailed instructions included in the guide should help anyone feel comfortable establishing a meeting or social event for their Grange to remain connected at this time.”

You can download the guide to set up your meeting at a distance with phone and video conference options so anyone can attend. The guide is available on the National Grange website. CLICK HERE

New week brings new topics of discussion, entertainment, education through daily live 'Cultivating Connections' events
By National Grange Communications & Development Director Amanda Brozana Rios

The National Grange is preparing for another week of daily livestreams on Facebook and YouTube with many new faces and topics, sponsored by Grange Foundation.

In addition, we will hold a trivia night event on Friday, May 8 starting at 9 p.m. Eastern. Everyone will be assigned a team and most questions are general knowledge. There will be a few Grange questions per round. Prizes will be awarded for the top three teams. You are asked to pre-register and arrive in the Zoom room by no later than 9 p.m. Eastern. Pre-register at https://form.jotform.com/201207760156044. While many people are staring at another week without plans, this is a great event to invite friends to attend who are not members. They may enjoy the activity, even if they are still sheltering in place.

The schedule of live videos is as follows:

4:30 PM EDT Fri. May 8 Introduction to ASL/Deaf Culture (Lesson 5)
8:30 PM EDT Sat. May 9 Date Night In 6.0, a virtual Grange talent show
8:00 PM EDT Sun. May 10 Granges inspired by the closing charge to feed the hungry
7:00 PM EDT Mon. May 11 Optimizing your Facebook Experience
4:00 PM EDT Tue. May 12 The State of Rural Health with National Rural Health Association CEO Alan Morgan
4:00 PM EDT Wed. May 13 Legislative Update with Burton Eller
7:00 PM EDT Wed. May 13 Play BINGO with PA State Grange (contact Lizzie in advance at publicrelations@pagrange.org or 717-254-9550 to get BINGO cards)
4:00 PM EDT Thur. May 14 Lifeline as an essential Program
4:30 PM EDT Fri. May 15 Introduction to ASL/Deaf Culture (Lesson 6)
8:30 PM EDT Sat. May 16 Date Night In 7.0, a virtual Grange talent show
12:00 PM EDT Mon. May 18 BINGO with NC State Grange. Contact Jessica for card and details at jlhorton@ncgrange.com

All livestreams are available at any time after the close of the event at facebook.com/nationalgrange/live or on our YouTube channel. If you have suggestions or questions, contact Amanda at communications@nationalgrange.org

Praying for the Farmers and Ranchers
By Gordon Stone, Executive Vice President, National Young Farmers Educational Association Reprinted with Permission

Within ten or so days, we have seen our world change dramatically. The COVID-19 crisis has invaded our country. We are making daily choices to protect ourselves, families, friends, colleagues and even people that we may not know. We are observing our local, state and national governments working together. We listen daily to departments of government give status reports.

We are becoming keenly aware of the relationships between business, university and governmental research. We are recognizing the power of neighbors, and community is becoming a more meaningful term.

Entertainment and sports are changing daily. Even public education from Pre-K to Ph.D. is adapting to a new dynamic. Lifestyles are changing. Social media and technology are being used for connecting. Churches are holding virtual services. Restaurants are serving drive-thru meals and take out only.

If people leave home, they are practicing social distancing, putting more emphasis on cleanliness and choosing to not mix in groups of ten or more. Many people are beginning to prepare for sheltering in place. They are changing their purchase choices. For example, people are buying what they need to stay at home and still maintain as much normalcy as possible. Food shelves in grocery stores are being emptied, hand sanitizer is disappearing and toilet paper is being purchased in massive volumes.

For many years, I have believed that most of our necessities are the direct and indirect result of what is produced on our farms and ranches. Now, I am seeing with my own eyes. The important work of the farmer and rancher is more obvious today than ever. Americans are dependent on products from our farms and ranches. Commodity, livestock and food processing companies are providing the goods that people are making top priority. I have visited grocers over the past ten days and the shelves are being emptied, replenished and often emptied again. Leaders at every level are encouraging consumers not to panic. They are saying “there is plenty of food.” We, as America’s producers and agri-business leaders, know that the food and fiber supply is secure.

It is the awareness that this food is produced by a vulnerable American farmer and farm family that makes this story important. America is fully prepared to meet the important food and fiber needs of its population, as long as the farmer and rancher is protected. We encourage everyone to be smart (turn to reliable, science-based sources like the CDC), practice safety (social distance, wash hands, stay out of group settings) and remain confident (trust our nation’s EMA officers, healthcare systems, service providers, leadership teams, local businesses, etc.)

I am proud to be a part of this industry! I love my family and friends in agriculture and I pray that they stay as safe as possible. In my family, we believe that God is sovereign and He will never fail to hear our prayers. With this in mind, we are committed to continuing to pray for everyone involved, especially our nation’s farmers and ranchers. America needs them!

MEMBER BENEFIT: MetLife Auto and Home Insurance

MetLife Home and Auto – Just for being a member of the Grange, you can get special group discounts on auto insurance from MetLife Auto & Home®. Call today for your free quotes. You could save up to 15% automatically with your member group discounts. Call 1-877-491-5089 (not available in Washington, Oregon, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, and North Carolina.)



RULINGS AND BYLAWS RELATED TO
MEETINGS HELD NOT IN PERSON

As of 2016, per a ruling by National Master Betsy Huber, Granges are permitted to meet and conduct business using virtual tools such as conference calls and video conference software. Delegates to the 150th Annual National Convention elected to have State Granges determine their adoption of any rules regarding virtual Grange business meetings within their jurisdiction.

All Granges are encouraged to allow members to participate virtually, even if State Grange delegates or Executive Committees have restricted voting on business issues or put in place other restrictions related to virtual participation or items that may be voted on by those taking part virtually.

All Granges are strongly encouraged to schedule events and make available virtual attendance for non-business “socials,” especially during the time of the COVID crisis or in times of inclement weather in order to continue to follow the Bylaw requiring at least one meeting per month.

VIRTUAL MEETING GUIDE

You are encouraged to review your State Grange Bylaws or contact your State Master to determine what activities and actions may be taken during virtual Grange meetings. Upon review of meeting options and guidance by your State Grange of what can occur at virtual meetings, Granges should advertise to all members the connection information in order for each to attend. Phone trees, physical mailings, email, social postings, and calendar items sent to local news outlets are all pieces that should be used, especially when advertising social events the entire community can be a part of.

FREE PLATFORM OPTIONS

FreeConferenceCall.com – Video and Voice (smartphone or landline) conferences; easy-to-use app; unlimited participants; 6 hours maximum meeting length; can record the audio and video of the meeting (record button at bottom center of app screen or *9, 1 by phone) and easily access recording with a link (if you are not online, the link may be emailed to someone you identify).

Zoom – Video and Voice conferences; up to 100 participant lines (so if you have three members in one house, using one device to access the meeting, that counts as 1 participant line); easy-to-use app; 40 minutes per meeting maximum for free plan; can record audio and video of the meeting to the local computer or smart device that is hosting or co-hosting the meeting.

UberConference – Voice and Video connection options; no app to download; meetings may only have up to 10 participant lines; maximum 45 minutes perconference event; can record the audio of the meeting (record button at bottom center of app screen or 00 by phone) and easily access recording under “Past Conferences” tab and download as MP3 or play (if you are not online, the download may be emailed to someone you identify).



POLICY UPDATES AND ISSUE NEWS

APRIL 2020 WRAP-UP

Overview

The Covid-19 pandemic crisis has now turned into two worldwide crises, medical and economic. Just a couple months ago, most of us could not have imagined a virus so infectious that it could spread around the world in a few months killing people in war time numbers. Neither could we have we expected worldwide economies to tank so far so fast with jobless rates unheard of since the Great Depression. Forecasters now predict the debt held by the American public will exceed the size of the economy by the end of fiscal year 2020 and eclipse the prior record set after World War II by 2023.

Our more isolated rural communities have been spared high infection and death rates except in localities where food processing workers traditionally work in large numbers in close proximity. Plants have shuttered to disinfect and install worker protective barriers. Supplies of beef, pork and poultry are backed up at the farm as more and more processing plants close periodically. Milk has been dumped and vegetables plowed under as restaurant demand dried up and processing facilities and distribution channels struggled to change their product mix to accommodate retail trade and government purchases specifications. Export markets are running around thirty percent of normal volume. Overall, farm gate prices have fallen 10 to 40 percent depending upon the commodity.

The need to provide telemedicine and distance learning during the pandemic is bringing fresh attention and a reality focus to the rural digital divide. More and more of the general public and public policy officials are aware that while connectivity to high speed technologies is absolutely necessary going forward, much of rural America does not have the connectivity to access these tools. The National Grange is speaking out that while we're extremely grateful for congressional and Administration support and funding to reach the "last mile" in rural America with 5G connectivity within five years, we don't have that long given present pandemic developments. A new focus on near-term connectivity using a mix of available technologies must become a public policy priority the Grange will be pushing for.

Coronavirus Aid Packages

Congress has passed four major financial aid packages that include direct payments to individuals, paycheck protection for idled workers, protective equipment for medical personnel and first responders, loans and grants for businesses, hospitals and schools, medicine and vaccine research, government commodity purchases, aid to farmers and ranchers, and much more. For agriculture producers, the aid packages provide support for:


• Commodity purchases - USDA has committed to spending $100 million per month to buy dairy products, fresh produce, pork and chicken for government feeding programs and food banks.
• Row crops - $3.9 billion in direct payments are earmarked for row crops where markets have dropped at least five percent since January. These are mainly corn, soybeans and cotton.
• Livestock - $9.6 billion will go directly to cattle, dairy and hog producers where prices have fallen 25-35 percent.
• Specialty crops - $2.1 billion goes to fruit and vegetable growers and grower-shippers.

A fifth relief package is expected to be seriously considered and hotly contested when lawmakers return to Washington (Senate May 4, House unknown). Political fights are already developing around these five wish-list project buckets:

• Aid for state and local governments
• Additional funding for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) for small business
• Funding for states to implement voting by mail
• Boost in food assistance
• New infrastructure projects
• And more

Agriculture and Food

Jump in Direct Sales

Farms that sell direct to consumers have seen their demand spike and many are booking ahead as well as creating waiting lists. Those with pick-your-own programs have scrambled to convert to drive-through pick-up marketing.

Food Banks Appeal for More Food

Financial fallout from the pandemic is triggering a hunger crisis from Maine to California. People furloughed and unemployed are in car queues before daylight waiting for food banks to open. Feeding America, the nation's largest hunger-relief organization, expects to see a 50-60 percent increase in the number of people who do not have enough to eat. Food banks nationwide are squeezed between short supplies and surging demand from needy families, single parents, the elderly and the disabled.

Farm to Food Banks

The National Grange joined Feeding America and the American Farm Bureau to urge the Secretary of Agriculture to create a vouchers program with enough regulatory flexibility that would allow farmers to ship commodities directly to food banks instead of relying on third party transactions that delay the process. This farmer-food bank voucher idea will help farmers cover their cost of harvesting, packing, storing and transporting surplus farm fresh food to food banks.

USDA Increases SNAP Benefits

Ag Secretary Sonny Perdue announced emergency Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefit increases for eligible households across all 50 states and 3 territories. This emergency assistance represents a 40 percent increase in overall SNAP benefits.

Food Chain Workers are Essential

Early in the pandemic , the Grange worked with producer groups, suppliers, processors, truckers, service unions and retailers to convince the Administration to designate food supply chain as an essential work force that need the freedom to continually perform their jobs. This designation allowed workers from farm to consumer to perform their jobs in lock-down designations. While the work of health professionals, first responders and public safety officials is certainly heroic, we need to give a shout-out to food industry workers who put themselves on the line for our food security. Those working on a farm or ranch, in a processing plant, trucking food to distribution centers or stores, stocking shelves and selling food are indeed essential and the unsung heroes of COVID-19 fight.

Meat Processing Plants Become Food Chain's Weakest Link

Today's meat processing plants are large, modern, efficient and employ huge numbers of people working in close proximity. The ripple effects of COVID-19 are now being felt across the entire meat processing landscape. When plant workers and federal inspectors become infected, plants close to test workers, disinfect premises and install protective barriers. Closing down one plant, even for a few weeks, backs up production across the country, crashes prices paid to farmers and leads to huge surpluses at the farm and severe meat shortages for the consumer. By late April, more than a dozen beef, pork and chicken plants have closed or are running at greatly reduced speeds because of the pandemic.

On April 28, the President signed an executive order invoking the Defense Production Act to protect the country's food supply. The order will protect processors from liability concerns and require them to remain open and to reopen closed plants as soon as it is safe to do so. Federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention protocol for worker safety is now in place at processing plants. Processors will also have to provide written documentation of mitigation plans for review by a USDA-led team that includes representatives of the Labor department and CDC.

Keep the Trucks Rolling

The National Grange joined growers, producers and truckers to request the Department of Transportation to waive hour of service rules to allow truckers longer hours to keep food supply channels open and running from farm to consumer. DOT granted the request and has since extended the waiver to May 15.

Ag Labor Gets Through

The Trump Administration responded favorably to requests from ag groups including the Grange to give ag workers special consideration during the lock-down. H-2A workers previously employed in the U.S. can re-enter without new immigration interviews and H-2A workers already in the country can remain past their deadline and may change employers.

Health Care

Canada's Health Care Suffering

For our friends to the north, 50 years of government managed health care is failing under the strain of COVID-19. In normal times, Canadians wait four hours in emergency rooms, four weeks for a MRI and 20 weeks from referral to treatment by a specialist. Now, in the middle of this pandemic, the Canadian system is buckling. Beds in intensive units are scarce. Reuters news service reports patients are in broom closets, conference rooms and auditoriums all across the country. Emergency deregulations are beginning to spread across health care. As an example, physicians are finally getting limited permission to operate telehealth services.

Keep Seniors Healthy

The National Grange joined patient advocacy groups to support the Protecting Seniors Through Immunization Act (H.R.5076 and S.1872). The bills would require out-of-pocket payments for vaccines under Medicare Part D to be the same as vaccines under Medicare Part B thus saving seniors money on future vaccinations.

Pandemic Tough on Rural Hospitals

Rural hospitals were already struggling to stay open before the pandemic struck. COVID-19 restrictions on elective surgery, routine hospitalization needs and high cost of personal protective equipment may escalate closures. Hopefully funds for hospitals tucked into Congress' fourth COVID relief package will actually reach rural hospitals.

Telecommunications

Thank You

A great big thank you to our telecommunications partners. You have stepped up to help mitigate our sudden challenge to get connected or stay connected. The creation of Wi-Fi hotspots in rural communities means our school and home-bound college students can do homework and complete projects. With routine medical service suspended at hospitals and doctors' offices, check-in via telemedicine is now possible. We also appreciate your forbearance of late payments, additional data overage, free telehealth visits and more. There's news of aggies helping too. We're hearing about agribusinesses and ag co-ops standing up Wi-Fi hot spots at their satellite business facilities in rural and small town areas. Thanks Aggies!

Keep Satellite TV

The National Grange issued a statement urging Congress to extend the Copyright Act's distance network signal license which expires May 31. In rural areas, many households still depend on satellite TV to connect with major broadcast networks for news, information and to stay safe as COVID-19 spreads.

Agencies Should Coordinate Lifeline

On April 27, 38 Senators and 102 House Members wrote FCC Chairman Pai to urge cooperation between the Federal Communications Commission, USDA and Health and Human Services to promote the subsidized Lifeline program which gives low-income, disabled, shut-in and veteran citizens access to voice and broadband services. On April 29, the FCC opened Lifeline enrollment through June 30 to include those who are newly unemployed as a result of the pandemic.

Perspective

You always reap what you sow; there is no shortcut ~ Stephen Covey

Always do your best. What you plant now, you will harvest later. ~ OG Mandino

What we plant in the soil of contemplation, we shall reap in the harvest of action. ~ Meister Eckhart

If you plant for a year, plant a seed. If for ten years, plant a tree. If for a hundred years, teach the people. When you sow a seed once, you will reap a single harvest. When you teach the people, you reap a hundred harvests. ~ Kuan Chung

We plant seeds that will flower as results of our lives, so best to remove the weeds of anger, avarice, envy and doubt, that peace and abundance may manifest for all. ~ Dorothy Day

Feedback and questions are welcome. Call Burton Eller, at (202) 628-3507 ext. 114 or email beller@nationalgrange.org



April 2020

Click on article title to open or close article.

This website operates on the concept of continous improvements. We are continously adding to the Current News page (vist page), and updating forms and publication as we become aware of new versions.

At the present time, there are nearly 180 different pages on our website.

Listed below are recently updated and new pages;

1. YouTube Videos - On the Grange. This is a new page that list links to YouTube videos that you may find useful and interesting.

2. ByLaws and Governing Docs - We combined two pages that duplicated information between them.

3. Current News - We have updated the appearance of the page to include images that help to identify the source of the news article. We have also changed from a double column format, to a single column format. Also the background of the article has been cnanged to a light gray, against the white background of web page.

4. Foundation - At our last Annual Session, we completed the necessary paperwork to file for our new 501(c) 3 non profit foundation. We have applied for our EIN, and submitted the filing with the IRS for non-profit status. Not sure how much this will be delayed do to the Pandemic.

We are updating graphics on the site that are related to the subject of the webpage.

As always, we welcome your feedback. You may use the following contact form.

Thank you



Did you know the National Grange is providing programming every day of the week during this time of quarantine and shelter in place? Are you feeling alone and disconnected? Here is your chance to connect with Grange members across the US. Visit the National Grange Facebook page for updated listings. Many of the programs are being simulcast on YouTube and can be viewed as videos at the National Grange YouTube channel. Links and announcements can also be found at the California State Grange Lecturer Facebook page. Every Saturday night at 5:30 PM (Pacific) there is an approximately hour long talent show hosted presented live online and featuring members of all ages from throughout the nation.

Below are samples of some of the Cultivating Connections programs that have taken place in the last week.

April 25 Talent

FCC CHAIR Ajit Pai

Exploring Traditions

Hope to see you there,

Katie Squire, Lecturer
California State Grange



Dear Grange Brothers and Sisters,

An early-morning fire on 4/19/2020, totally consumed the home of California State Grange Executive Committeeman, Will Shaw and Sister Ginger. Everyone in the home and the dogs all escaped with their lives and very little else. They are living with family nearby and are safe.

Will and Ginger would appreciate the prayers and good thoughts of their Grange brothers and sisters. Right now, they don't know what they need and are taking it a day at a time. We will let you know as things progress.

We extend them our love and fellowship.

Fraternally,

Lillian Booth, Secretary
California State Grange




Master’s Message: Embracing alternatives to physical meetings can stave off entropy

By Betsy Huber, National President

As we complete the sixth week of isolation and social distancing, how are you doing? How has your life changed? Or more importantly, how has your outlook on life or your priorities changed? Are you looking back at all the many activities you used to do, the frantic rush from work or school to home to sports to clubs to shopping, even to Grange events, and wondering if they were worth your time?

As you are thinking these thoughts, I hope that you’re feeling that Grange was one of the important parts of your life and you will continue your involvement in person when we are finally released. If you have doubts, I hope you will think of what you can do to make your Grange time more valuable—to you and to your family and community. Do you just meet, greet, and eat? Or is there a purpose to your meeting? In these difficult times I’m sure you can find a more meaningful purpose for your Grange, even if you can’t meet together in person. This is why I strongly encourage you to hold virtual Grange meetings during this time—so you can plan a new purpose, or new ways of carrying out your purpose in the future.

I came across a word last week—entropy, the inevitable and steady deterioration of any system or society; the tendency for all things to go from order towards disorder. This is what I fear for our Community Granges in this time of isolation. If your Grange goes for two months, three months, or who-knows-how-long without connection, will it slide into entropy and disappear? Please don’t allow this to happen to you!

The National Grange allows and encourages Granges to meet by phone, Zoom, Skype, Go To Meeting, or any of the many virtual methods available. Don’t allow a virus to be the death of your Grange!

You don’t need to be the Master to initiate a virtual meeting procedure. Any youth or grandchild can set up the mechanics and offer to host. They may get in the habit of attending the meetings and become involved in your Grange. My Grange has been including members in meetings by conference call or Zoom for the last four months—yes, even before the virus—and we have had attendance from members we haven’t seen in many years. Those who have moved away, are attending college, or just lost contact with us and are now back. We’ve had great discussions and it really is a wonderful way to keep in touch. Why not give it a try next week! We want to use this crisis to make our Grange grow, not go into entropy.


PEOPLE, PRIDE & PROGRESS

125 Year History of the Grange

Written by David H. Howard
Was $12 NOW ONLY $6, plus shipping

Order online at grangestore.org or by calling Loretta at (202) 628-3507 ext. 109




Time to build skills for the future

By Joe Stefenoni, Membership and Leadership Development Director

Quarantine log – day... I’ve lost count.

As we all are looking for different activities to occupy our spare time, this is a perfect opportunity to utilize your quarantine/shelter-in-place/social distance to read a new book, learn something new and/or develop a new skill. While doing all of these, there can be a focus on the Grange as well.

If learning more about the history of the Grange’s legislative, civil and social accomplishments is your desire, most of the literature written on the history of the Grange organization can now be found digitally. The National Grange has republished a number of these volumes as ebooks on the Amazon Kindle store, others can be found on Google Books (books.google.com) and some can be purchased directly from the Grange Supply Store. From Oliver Hudson Kelley’s Origins and Progress of the Order of the Patrons of Husbandry published in 1875 to People, Pride and Progress published in 1992 by David H. Howard, the history of our organization is a rich fabric that is often intertwined with the progress of our nation. A deeper understanding of the journey our Grange has taken over 152 years builds an appreciation for our past and a better vision for our future.

This is also a time to learn and study our ritual. If you have access to a Grange Manual, pull it off the bookshelf and read through the impressive ceremonies contained within; from the opening and closing ceremonies to the degree work to the Installation of Officers all are filled with teachings that are relevant. When we are again able to meet together, offer to lead a discussion or demonstration on the piece of ritual you learned or studied. The Unwritten Work is also filled with both historical and relevant instructions about some of the things we do in our Grange meetings or as part of our cultural fabric as an organization. After you learn parts (or all) of the Unwritten Work, you can take the opportunity to participate in the Grange Ritual contest at National Grange Convention this November.

Most importantly, this is a prime time to think about your Grange journey and learn about the various leadership opportunities that are available. What is your next step? What responsibilities do you want to have in Grange leadership? What officer roles would you like to fill, and what does it take to be successful? Do you want to become a State Grange Deputy or start organizing Subordinate/Community Granges? The National Grange has a number of resources available including the “Grange Resource Binder” and handbooks for Subordinate/Community Grange Masters, Secretaries and Treasurers and State Grange Deputies. The National Grange Membership department is also looking for regional assistants across the country to help with membership development and leadership training. For more information about this, email membership@nationalgrange.org.

For all Grange members I encourage you to take this time to learn something new, think about how it can apply to your life, your Grange journey, or the future of the Grange. This could be the jumping-off point for your next great adventure of service and leadership.

FCC Chairman Pai joins Grange live web-stream, talks broadband and more

By National Grange Communications & Development Director Amanda Brozana Rios

On Thursday, April 23, FCC Chairman Ajit Pai joined the National Grange’s daily livestream, Cultivating Connections. Pai talked about rural broadband and other related issues. He also took questions from the audience who joined the conversation by comments and text.

In it, Pai said the contributions of the Grange on the issues related to rural broadband and Lifeline have been immensely useful and shared his pleasure to have National Grange President Betsy Huber as a member of the FCC’s Broadband Deployment Advisory Committee and the Precision Ag Taskforce.

The entire 1-hour interview can be found by going to: https://youtu.be/itf4EhEaHxk

Monthly Dutch oven recipes, travel attractions debut on GrangeRevival.com

Those getting cabin fever and looking forward to their next adventure are encouraged to check out grangerevival.com. The site now offers two monthly features – a Dutch oven recipe, including a primer for those unfamiliar with the rustic camp-style cooking option, and roadside attraction ideas near or on the way to Sturgis, South Dakota, the site of the 2021 Grange Revival.

The new features have been created by Chris Hamp, National Lecturer, and her husband, Duane. The couple are well-known for their zest for adventure and fun photos in various places with oddities found on trips.

The Hamps hope that the tips and ideas will lead others to consider how they can pack as much fun into their trip to Days End Campgrounds in July 2021 as possible.

click here to enlarger image above

LAST CALL

Foundation announces grants open for all Granges serving during COVID

By National Grange Foundation Board Chairwoman Joan C. Smith

I am so proud to call myself a Granger as I am sure you all are also. What awesome and amazing activities have been taken on and achieved by the Grangers and Granges across America in this time of need. You are providing support to your communities, neighbors, first responders, medical teams, grocery/pharmacy, postal, sanitation, teachers, custodians, truck drivers etc. personnel with food, deliveries, sharing a little joy with a card or phone call, providing PPE, a smile and a wave and so much more than listed here. The Grange is valuable and necessary more than ever and that relevancy will continue in your communities when this crisis is over.

Your National Grange Foundation Board wants to say thank you to ten (10) Granges (chartered Junior, Subordinate, Pomona, State) with a $100 Grant drawing for the great work you have been doing. First, thanks to all who have purchased one of our “we’re in this together” t-shirt for yourself, or your neighbor or a community associate. The sale of these shirts is allowing the Foundation to provide these grants. Order yours today at: inthistogethershirt.weebly.com CONTINUE TO PURCHASE THE SHIRTS

At our April Foundation Board meeting, we voted to receive applications from chartered Granges, Junior, Subordinate, Pomona, State for EACH project completed in support of COVID-19. Submissions must be received by June 5.

We know every Grange can do SOMETHING at this time. To level the playing field, we are asking Granges to submit a short form/report and you will be entered into a drawing, which will be held at our June 9 Board meeting. Ten (10) submissions/Grange names will be pulled and each will receive $100 as a grant from the Foundation. We are committed to giving back to members who are giving back so much to their communities.

Submissions may be made online or by mail. Online, the form can be found at bit.ly/gfgrant20web. Forms may be submitted by any chartered Junior, Subordinate, Pomona or State Grange, but SHOULD NOT cover the work of another Grange. If multiple Granges partner on a project, only one form should be submitted per project and the Granges should determine to whom the check should be made and the fair distribution of the funds, should that project be pulled as a winning submission.

MEMBER BENEFIT: Supplemental Health Benefit Policy

AFLAC – Supplemental Health Benefits are available to National Grange members, the member’s spouse and the member’s dependent children. These supplemental benefit policies pay CASH directly to the members for members to use as they see fit.

Members will never receive a 1099 or be taxed in any way on the cash benefits paid from these policies. Cash benefits are paid if Grange members (policy holders) have an accident and utilize the services of a hospital emergency room or urgent care center, contract internal cancer, experience a heart attack/stroke, need major organ transplants, utilize certain services of their dentist and more.

Please go to www.aflac.com/nationalgrange or call Theon Karabatsos at 561-398-1204 or email theon_karabatsos@us.aflac.com



Brothers and Sisters,

First, I hope you are all doing well and getting through this period of pandemic with a sense of resolve that today the Grange is necessary in communities more than ever and will become even more relevant as things begin to open and people seek to reestablish that human connection.

Many Granges have been doing amazing things to support the needs of their neighbors, stepping up in ways that we never could have imagined. As Chair of the Board of Directors for the Grange Foundation, I am pleased to tell you about the grants we are offering for Granges who have been doing such great work.

SUPPORT A WORTHY CAUSE

In March we began selling t-shirts with the message “We’re in this Together” with only a small reference to Grange. The shirt has a positive message, includes nearly everyone in the professions and lifestyles listed on it and is appealing to everyone - not just Grangers. This is important because the sales from this shirt have helped to provide money for grants that we will be giving to Granges. We hope you have all purchased a shirt, shared information with your members about the shirt and encouraged your friends inside and outside the Grange to wear this item and spread the message: We’re in this together. They’re affordable and there is no shipping cost. You can get yours at inthistogethershirt.weebly.com now. If you have problems with the site, you can place the order with Amanda Brozana Rios by phone at (301) 943-1090. She can send you an invoice for the items and you can make checks payable to Grange Foundation. A flyer you can send digitally to everyone, post on your social accounts and print and put in the mail or hang at local businesses can be found attached to this email.

ORDER YOUR T-SHIRT TODAY!

COVID-19 GRANT SUPPORT

At our April Board meeting we voted to receive applications from chartered Granges, Junior, Subordinate, Pomona for each project they complete in support of COVID-19 at this time. Submissions must be made by June 5.

We know that Granges exist in communities that are very different, but in every community some work can be done to better the lives of others - even if it’s just creating a concerted and organized effort to check in with neighbors. We did not want Granges to compete - as some would have more funds, more members, specific connections or talents, communities with more services available and less opportunities for service, and more that would impact what they were able to do. But we know every Grange can do SOMETHING at this time. To level the playing field, we are asking Granges to submit reports and regardless of largess of impact, they will be entered into a drawing, which will be held at our June 9 Board meeting. Ten (10) submissions/Grange names will be pulled and each will receive $100 as a grant from the Foundation. We are committed to giving back to members who are giving back to their communities.

Submissions may be made online or by mail. Online, the form can be found at bit.ly/gfgrant20web.

We have the paper form attached here for you to distribute quickly to each of the Granges in your jurisdiction.

Forms may be submitted by any chartered Junior, Subordinate, Pomona or State Grange, but SHOULD NOT cover the work of another Grange. If multiple Granges partner on a project, only one form should be submitted per project and the Granges should determine to whom the check should be made and the fair distribution of the funds, should that project be pulled as a winning submission.

APPLY ONLINE NOW

DOWNLOAD APPLICATION

GRANGE VIRTUAL TALENT SHOW

After seeing all the amazing things Granges have been sharing online and those covered in the new edition of Good Day! Magazine. We look forward to many submissions!

Get your subscription now!

Finally, if you’re bored and wish to see some of your Grange Brothers and Sisters show off their talent, we’ve been sponsoring weekly “Date Nights In” on the National Grange Facebook Page and Grange Foundation page and later available on the National Grange YouTube channel. They are on Saturdays at 8:30 p.m. Eastern and next week’s is already shaping up to be a wonderful event. I encourage you to tune in and tell all your friends - not just Grangers - about what we are providing in this time to bring everyone together. The poster for the Saturday, April 25 event is also attached. Grangers have talent, encourage them to share their talent with us all. Contact Amanda at communications@nationalgrange.org to sign up to perform on a Saturday.

All of the information will also soon appear on our website, www.grangefoundation.org, but in the meantime, we wanted to provide it directly to you so you are able to get started on the grant submission form, buy your shirts, get your magazine subscription and prepare to be entertained by our wonderful Grange talent.

Fraternally,

Joan C. Smith
Grange Foundation Board Chair

GRANGE FOUNDATION | 1616 H STREET NW, WASHINGTON, DC 2006



To our Personal Auto policyholders,

As the COVID-19 Pandemic has unfolded, Grange Insurance Association has taken a careful and thoughtful approach to helping our insurance policy customers, our employees and the Independent Agents representing us. This is certainly a challenging time but we are confident we will get through it by working together and helping each other to the best of our abilities.

As a Mutual Insurance Company, owned by our policyholders, we know that we have a duty to do our part in helping defeat this horrible virus. We have seen that in the six states where we write auto insurance that you are doing your part and staying home, creating the social distance that we must have at this time. Staying home has meant that there are fewer cars on the roads and highways resulting in fewer accidents than we would normally see for this time of year. This means that customers who have an active personal auto policy with us will be credited 5% of their premiums paid for two months.

The credit amount will be displayed as a total deduction on one upcoming billing statement and can be seen in your online MyGrange.com account. The date the credit will be shown is subject to approval from your state’s department of insurance or insurance commissioner’s office.

Supporting the communities where we do business is also essential, helping your community deal with the impact of the pandemic is very important to us. As such, GIA is partnering with our reinsurer, Swiss RE, in making contributions to Direct Relief and Feeding America, Direct Relief is an organization which is working to get protective gear and critical care medications to as many health care workers as possible, as quickly as possible. They are making emergency deliveries every day to medical facilities all across our country. Feeding America is an organization which delivers food and supplies to local Food Banks to help people and families facing hunger or food insecurity in times of great need. Winston Churchill once said it so well, “…so much is owed by so many to so few, ” and that is certainly true of the people working in the health care and nonprofit sectors today, we owe them so much gratitude and are so proud to support them.

Our commitment to providing you with the best insurance coverage and best service has never wavered, we will continue to do all that we can to help you get through this challenging time. Thank you for being a Grange Insurance Association customer, we hope that you, your families and your friends can stay healthy and strong.

Sincerely

Steve Stogner
President & CEO
Grange Insurance Association




Master’s Message: Spring is here, registration for 154th Convention delayed but coming soon

By Betsy Huber, National President

Spring is finally coming to the Mid-Atlantic, although it is still quite chilly, so I feel like we should be looking and planning for the future.

Our 154th Annual National Grange Convention is coming to Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, Nov. 17-21 and final preparations are being made. We are delaying the release of the online registration because of current events and because the hotel is currently closed, but it is ready to go live as soon as we feel it’s the right time. Watch your email for its release.

Also a reminder—the Grange Foundation’s Deaf Activities Grant application deadline is coming on May 1. Any Subordinate or Pomona Grange can apply for a $1000 grant, but you must apply through your State Grange. The State Grange will submit your application to the Foundation for judging. Two grants of $1000 are available this year to assist you in any project you plan to benefit the deaf/hearing impaired or to protect hearing. Previous winners are described on the Foundation website if you need project ideas. For rules and application see www.grangefoundation.org and click on Deaf Awareness on the menu bar. We are looking forward to some great applications this year with the increase in grant amounts.

It is heartwarming to see the many varied projects Granges are involved in, even in this time of quarantine. Keep up the good work! And when we are again allowed to meet, be ready to welcome new members who have seen your efforts in the community and want to join you.

During COVID, Grange challenged in new ways to Cultivate Connections

By Chris Hamp, National Lecturer

I am excited to announce the creation of the National Lecturer Advisory Board.

The Advisory Board consists of five members from across the country, representing each of the Grange convention regions, with subject matter expertise and experience in the following disciplines: Arts/Entertainment, Literary, Handicrafts, Home Skills and Self-Improvement; as well as a youth member to insure perspective from this critical membership sector. The Advisory Board includes:


• Arts/Entertainment: Phil Vonada (PA)
• Literary: Vonnie Meritt (OK)
• Handicrafts: Bonnie Mitson (ID)
• Home Skills: Gwen Swenson (MN)
• Self-Improvement: Mary Jordan (MA)
• Youth: Elliot Wilser (NY)

My intent for this Lecturer Advisory Board (LAB) is that it becomes a place to discuss, suggest and try new things; to capitalize on each member’s expertise and experience to positively affect Grange and Grange members at all levels; and to assist me as National Lecturer to make good decisions in regard to programming and contests.

I believe that the position of National Lecturer is most effective if led as a team, not be an individual sport. It is also my intent to create programming and resources that are timely, engaging and viable for every Grange and Grange member across the country. The strength of the Grange is at our community Grange level; back when, now and for always!

Special thanks to each of these Grangers for saying, “I’d Be Delighted,” and for their willingness to try something new. Stay tuned for great ideas and resources from the LAB!

Also, stay tuned for the second edition of our new quarterly newsletter for Lecturers, “A Quarter’s Worth,” due out in early May. This newsletter is sent from the National Lecturer to each State Lecturer who in turn is responsible to disperse it to each Pomona and community Lecturer within their State Grange. Each edition will also be available to download or print from the National Grange website.

Please contact me by Email at lecturer@nationalgrange.org or by phone at 509.953.3533 (voice or text) if you have questions or comments.

Thanks for all you do!

Be a DO·er!

Grangers tackling needs surfacing from COVID head on in communities Collected
By Heather Simon, Intern

Florida Grange #306, CO

For Grange month, Florida Grange #306, Durango, Colorado, asked members and the community to donate buttons to Stitch a Quilt Store, owned and run by LeeAnn Vallejos and her husband Mark Rosenberg.

Their store has been the hub for making masks and gowns in the Durango Area.

Lecturer Melissa Mietchen Lively came up with the idea that we could make caps or headbands that surgical masks attach to, thus saving the ears of Medical Staff.

Secretary Elizabeth Hiner said that Stitch was already making the caps and headband, but needed buttons. So, we refined our project to just collecting buttons one half inch or larger and donating them to Stitch. As we are in an only essential travel only quarantine, we asked our members and the community to put the buttons in a zip-top bag and drop off in the button bin at back door of the store. We also asked our members to let us know who participated in the project, as we have no way of tracking it do the COVID-19 restrictions.

Mietchen Lively created a short video and posted it on the Grange’s Facebook page, that showed the proper use of a mask.

She is working at Mercy Medical doing COVID-19 Triage for the remainder of the crisis.

Swauk Teanaway Grange #984, Washington

Claire Lucke Past president of Swauk-Teanaway Grange recently shared that their members will be helping students during the COVID-19 crisis.

Lucke is a school board director for the Cle-Elum-Roslyn School District, which is 14 miles from the Grange Hall. Their district is small and has under 1,000 students, and the superintendent was looking for businesses in the area who could provide connectivity for students while schools were closed.

Lucke, along with Grange President Donna Carollo and the members of the Grange, offered their service.

The Grange has excellent bandwidth because they partnered with Simplified Technologies to deliver wi-fi to line-of-sight residents near their Grange for more than 10 years. Their area is under-served because of low population, which doesn’t make it feasible for the local phone service company, CenturyLink to provide high speed connectivity.

In return for having a repeater on their building, Simplified Technologies provides free wi-fi to the Grange.

Carollo worked with the company to increase their bandwidth and provided the login and password with the school so students and parents could drive to the parking area at the Grange and access the internet.

Swauk Teanaway Grange is one of five local businesses to offer this service in addition to the school campus. In addition the Grange is also a distribution site for 200 lunches, Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, for kids.





Grange continues daily Cultivating Connections livestreams on Facebook

By National Grange Communications & Development Director Amanda Brozana Rios

The National Grange is working hard to stay connected to members and keep them informed, engaged and not feeling alone in this time of crisis. One such method has been to offer daily livestreams on the National Grange Facebook Page on a variety of topics with presenters from all over the nation.

National Grange President Betsy Huber said she is happy to provide a way for the Grange family to gather and grow together in this unprecedented time.

The highlight event of the week has become Date Night In – a virtual Grange talent show being held on Saturday nights starting at 8:30 p.m. Eastern and hosted by National Grange Lecturer Chris Hamp.

Additionally, two Grange members – Tara Plakyda and Carolynne Reed – have begun offering weekly lessons introducing deaf culture and ASL (American Sign Language). These are available on Fridays. This Friday, April 17, catch the lesson starting at 5 p.m. Eastern. All other weeks, the lesson will begin at 4:30 p.m. unless otherwise posted.

To see upcoming events, go to National Grange Facebook Page and click on Events on the left-hand navigation bar. To see past events, scroll down on the Facebook Page. If you do not catch an event live, you can always see it on the Facebook Page.

Grange issues must of Good Day! feature as stand-alone Rural Health Report

By National Grange Communications & Development Director Amanda Brozana Rios

Good Day! magazine will soon be in mailboxes of subscribers, but the main feature, which looked at rural health disparities pre-COVID and how the crisis is exacerbating already deep areas of concern and the many ways in which Granges and our members are responding to community needs at this time, has been released as a stand-alone report.

The 22-page document has been sent to reporters, other ag-industry groups, rural groups and more as a way to both show the serious issues rural residents face when it comes to healthcare and illustrate why Granges are so important in many of these small communities.

COVID testing directive issued
By National Grange Legislative Director Burton Eller

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services at the Department of Health and Human Services, along with the Departments of Labor and Treasury have issued a directive to ensure people with private health insurance have coverage for COVID-19 diagnostic testing and antibody testing (once it becomes widely available) at no cost such as copays and co-insurance.

The guidance also requires coverage to include urgent care visits, emergency room visits, and in-person or telehealth visits to a doctor that result in an order for a COVID-19 test.

This will allow patients access to vital health services and remove cost as a barrier to testing.

GUEST ESSAY: Let’s use this time to strengthen, not weaken, bonds between generations

By Donna Butts, Executive Director of Generations United Reprinted with permission; essay first appeared in Generations United newsletter

A scroll through your Twitter feed or scan of the news headlines reveals a disturbing trend: ageism during the coronavirus quarantine.

Take Italy, for instance, where older adults with COVID-19 are among those the country is deciding not to save. That's according to a New York Times Op-Ed by Rabbi Elliot Kukla, who self-described as "a chronically-ill rabbi," who offers spiritual care to elders coming to the end of life.

"Almost no one in my personal or professional world," Kukla explains, "would 'earn' care if the United States were to come to a scenario like Italy."

The ageism around the coronavirus in the U.S. is just as disturbing, when a state official calls on grandparents "to die for the economy" and a tweet calls older Americans "generally expensive to maintain and not productive."

The backlash rightly demonstrates what most Americans know: we are in the fight against COVID-19 together.

Our country thrives because we value our bookend generations - our young and old - that hold our civil society together.

We thrive because of the 2.6 million grandparents raising their grandchildren. They save our country more than $4 billion a year by keeping children out of the child welfare system. We succeed because older relatives provide full- or part-time childcare to help middle generations, including many first responders, show up for work.

We are stronger because of committed older adults like the 200,000 Senior Corps members who volunteer 50 million hours a year tutoring children, supporting families or serving their communities in other ways.

The sentiment that "we cannot let the cure be worse than the problem" is true. We should use this tough time to strengthen the bonds between generations, not weaken them. Together we win.

Great new development on ag labor front

H-2A workers already in the United States may remain to work in agriculture and food production and can now change employers.

The Department of Homeland Security and the UDSA just announced a temporary rule that will allow ag workers to remain in the country beyond their current period of employment. They will now be able to change employers which was previously prohibited.

This change will help relieve our stressed food production, processing and supply chain.

All welcome to attend Zoom meeting next Tuesday looking at how membership and programming go hand-in-hand

The April 2020 Membership Matters zoom meeting will feature a special guest presenter. National Grange Lecturer Chris Hamp will be leading a discussion on planning Lecturer's programs and effective Lecturer's programs for membership development. This is a topic relevant to all Granges and we encourage all members to join in this discussion with our National Lecturer. The Zoom will be on April 21st (two weeks from today) at 8:30 pm eastern time. The log-on/call-in information is in the event cover photo. For any questions, please contact National Grange Membership Director Joe Stefenoni at membership@nationalgrange.org.

Go to tiny.cc/1867zoom or
call 669-900-6833
Use meeting ID 525-965-930 to log in.



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Message to Grange Members


As I have been watching the news about the coronavirus spreading, it is difficult to know what to say to California Grange members. I want to give people hope, but it is also incredibly important that we keep up the physical distancing, disinfecting, quarantining and other COVID-19 safety precautions and continue to take them seriously. It is literally a matter of life and death—possibly not for you, personally, but for the people you meet, the folks in your family, and, especially, for the health workers that are on the front lines, risking their lives to save others. Because we shut down early in California—the first state in the nation—it looks like we may get through the peak of this virus in California without overwhelming the health care system. That means we have potentially saved thousands of lives, and we need to keep up the good work.


I know there are a lot of quilters and seamstresses among us and I’m sure many of you are already making face masks and getting them to wherever they are needed most. Thank you!! My friend Debbie made masks until she ran out of elastic, now she’s waiting on an online shipment so she can make more. If you know how to sew and have odds and ends of cotton fabric on hand there are patterns and instructions online. There are other ways in which I know Grangers are helping out, too, partnering with their local food banks to get food to people, checking on and shopping for elderly neighbors, and setting up phone trees to stay in contact. We are all doing what we can while honoring the “shelter in place” orders.


All of the Granges I’ve been in touch with so far have cooperated by cancelling all meetings, activities and events and are managing to meet via phone or video conference. If those are too cumbersome for your Grange, the Executive Committee can make necessary emergency decisions using “action by unanimous written consent” via email. For this you need to have, at minimum, the three EC members plus the President/Master and VP/Overseer. A motion can be made, seconded and voted on via email and is valid as long as everyone is in unanimous agreement. It is important that a copy of those emails is printed out and added to the minutes when regular meetings begin again, and the membership votes to approve the actions that were taken. It is good practice to have each EC member sign the printout of their email, so there is no question who wrote it and sent it. Keep in mind this is not the time for new programs or ideas, or changes in policy. The EC is empowered to take only the minimum actions necessary between regular meetings.

I’ve enjoyed speaking with Grangers around the state and look forward to calling more of you, just to say hello and find out how you’re doing. I’m available by email or cell phone if you have questions or would just like to talk, and would love to hear from you. I know that Grangers everywhere are concerned about fundraising, with breakfasts, concerts, and other vital events being cancelled or postponed indefinitely. Everyone is worried about how we will weather the financial crisis that is following on the heels of the health crisis. What I know is that we will weather it together—as Grangers, as community members who care, as Americans. We will work with you if dues and quarterly reports are delayed. We will find ways to help Granges get back on their feet as the country, eventually, returns to what will probably be a new kind of normal.


I’m hoping that new normal will include a deeper awareness of how truly, undeniably, connected we all are—in our communities, our country and around the world. We are one human family sharing one very small and precious planet. And I hope Americans will go forward with a new appreciation of things we used to take for granted, like toilet paper, and full shelves in the supermarkets, and simply being able to go to town and pick up whatever we need, whenever we want to. I know I’m being much more careful to use up the fresh foods I have instead of letting them die in the bottom drawer of the refrigerator—I don’t think I will ever take fresh veggies for granted again. And I know that when this crisis has abated people everywhere will be wanting to connect with each other in more positive and meaningful ways. As Grangers, we are so lucky because that’s what we do!


I know you are all praying for those who are affected by the coronavirus, for the doctors and nurses who are caring for them, and for all who are struggling with the temporary loss of their jobs and livelihoods.

Thank you all for carrying on and carrying the Grange forward, for taking care of yourselves and each other, and for keeping the faith in our organization and our nation, that we will pull through. We will, and we’ll be stronger for it.

Warmest Personal Regards,
Jan Saxton
VP and Acting President
California State Grange




APRIL 3, 2020

Master’s Message: Dairy farmers first felt boom, now bust thanks to COVID

By Betsy Huber, National President

By now we are all pretty familiar with social distancing and the related problems caused by the coronavirus. Many of our members are out of work and possibly not being paid; students are out of school and may or may not be learning virtually.

Fortunately our farmers’ daily work is not affected by the virus--or is it? Agriculture has been deemed a life-sustaining business so it is not mandated by any stay-at-home orders. However, other factors will certainly harm our farm businesses. So far I’ve heard from mushroom farmers who lost a large portion of their market with the closing of restaurants. Most of the mushrooms grown in my county (the mushroom capital of the world) are for fresh market and they don’t keep fresh very long.

Secondly, I’ve just become aware that the COVID stimulus package signed by the President last week contains a provision to “provide flexibility for the disposal of milk and limit the financial impact to producers… Milk historically associated with a FMMO (Federal Milk Marketing Order) will be allowed to be dumped at the farm…” I can’t imagine anything more depressing than laboring and pouring your heart into producing a nutritious, healthy product only to be forced it throw it out.

The fluid milk pipeline is full. At least two Northeast milk processing plants have closed, and these plants are unable to switch to making retail milk products. USDA is asking all processors if they can retool to manufacture dairy products to fit specifications for government purchase. The challenge will be whether and how fast the industry can retool to meet those specifications. USDA has authority to purchase several kinds of dairy products for feeding programs and foreign aid, and through the $2 trillion relief package USDA does have the funding to make these purchases.

It is a fact that school lunch programs use a lot of milk, which of course they are not using right now. But these children are still eating lunch at home and should still have access to nutritious milk. Unfortunately I’ve also heard of stores rationing milk and only allowing the purchase of one or two gallons per shopping trip. If this is a distribution problem it really needs to be fixed! While fluid milk consumption is on a downward trend, cheese, yogurt and butter demand is increasing. There is no reason that farmers should need to discard milk when it can be made into these other products, ice cream, or even powdered milk.

So, Grangers, do your part! On your weekly (or less) outing to the grocery store, pick up an extra gallon or milk or pound of cheese to keep our farmers in business. The added nutrition will also keep you healthy.

During COVID, Grange challenged in new ways to Cultivate Connections

Grange Month is upon us and the theme could not be more apt: Cultivating Connections.

Yet, it’s hard to think of connections when many of us are under stay at home orders or otherwise staying isolated to protect our health.

Still, every member is urged to remain connected – holding or taking part in virtual Grange meetings, using a phone tree to check in on one another or sending letters to reduce the feeling of isolation.

The National Grange has also taken steps to keep members connected and cultivate connections with those who may wish to be part of our Order including suggesting tools like freeconferencecall.com and Zoom to hold meetings – something that was made official, including voting by members in attendance, thanks to a ruling by National Grange President Betsy Huber in 2016 – and offering a daily Facebook Live web series with various presenters and topics ranging from the serious to the fun.

The series, called “Cultivating Connections in the time of COVID” is hosted by National Grange Communications Director Amanda Brozana Rios, and appears at various times, but most frequently thus far during the afternoon or early evening (Eastern time zone).

Brozana Rios said she plans to host one each day for as long as many states have stay at home orders in place to give members something to look forward to.

If you miss an episode, you can go onto the National Grange Facebook page at any time and replay any of the previously live-recorded webcasts. While you do not need a Facebook account to access the videos, there are also plans to move the content to YouTube for an additional way to see the content.

On Saturday, starting at 8:30 p.m. Eastern, National Grange Lecturer Chris Hamp and Brozana Rios will co-host a Date Night In: Grange Virtual Talent Show. The event will showcase the talent of a few members from around the country and viewers with the means will be asked to contribute what they can to the Grange Foundation or purchase a Foundation t-shirt with the message: “We’re in this Together.”

Other upcoming episodes include a look at how to make balloon animals, a review of what the Grange Foundation is doing to preserve our history and help communities, Granges and their members; a discussion about the role of the Assembly of Demeter (which will be held on the Grange Heritage Forum, a member-only group on Facebook), and fun lecturers programs by State Lecturers and others. Ideas and suggestions for the webcasts are welcome and should be sent to Brozana Rios at communications@nationalgrange.org.

“We’re just excited to be able to use technology to keep us all connected and engaged at this time,” Brozana Rios said. “Plus, most of the content we will be putting out throughout Grange month, especially including the talent show, would be of interest to anyone, so you can share the invitation to virtually attend with people you know who are bored at home. Grange membership encouraged, but not required.” Brozana Rios said most of the live sessions encourage participation by the audience by way of comments and questions entered into the field below the video. You can also text questions or comments if you don’t have a Facebook account but are watching, to her directly at (301) 943-1090.

Pandemic shut-ins discover Victory Gardens

By National Grange Legislative Director Burton Eller

During World War II, Americans in urban centers and suburban towns planted victory gardens to assure they and their neighbors would have food.

As the economy faltered and food worries grew, school and community gardeners produced close to 40 % of the country’s fresh fruits and vegetables from 20 million garden plots.

This outbreak seems to have rekindled a desire among many people to grow their own food. And it’s not just toilet tissue and meat that’s flying off store shelves; it’s seeds!

Community gardening is booming. Seed suppliers report they’re scrambling to restock inventory in early April.

Southern Exposure Seed Exchange in Mineral, VA, just down the road from the home of this National Grange staffer, reports having to rework its website because it couldn’t keep up with the demand.

High Mowing Organic Seeds in Vermont says they’re having way more conversations with folks who have never gardened before and want to get into it.

Amid some really tough times for all Americans, it’s heartwarming to see our neighbors rediscover where their food comes from.

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New visual material released for Grange Month

By National Grange Communications & Development Director Amanda Brozana Rios

On April 1, just as many members were about to share social images in celebration of Grange Month, you should have received an email with new images for use.

The original Grange Month packet, provided digitally in March, had an image of two hands meeting with words about connectedness written on the illustration. Due to the isolation many of us are under because of the COVID virus, the image seemed to feel out-of-place in this very new landscape of social distancing and virtual interaction.

The new materials provide the same message - Grange is here to help Cultivate Connections – with a different look. In these items, someone is using a mobile device to interact with others, but feeling disconnected, indeed as many of us are today.

We hope you’ll use this material that is likely to resonate with anyone in your community struggling to adapt or missing more typical face-to-face human interaction at this time.

Consider printing and placing some at the doors of your neighbors. Let them know that when things get back to normal, you hope they will come and feel the fellowship Grange has provided us all for these many years.

Definitely share it on your social accounts. I bet you’ll start a conversation and maybe that will lead to welcoming a friend into our fraternity.

This may just be the time where disconnection connects us all.

Foundation offers fundraising t-shirt for sale to help Granges

The National Grange Foundation launched a fundraiser last week with hopes to appeal to the masses – far outside the Grange – but with a goal of assisting those Granges who are impacted by the COVID crisis or are working in their communities to assist others, potentially to the financial detriment of the Grange.

Such is the case with several Granges that have opened their Halls free-of-charge to other groups doing good work, or who have put together free food deliveries to local hospitals and more. These actions are what Granges are built to do, but sometimes come at a cost to perform.

So too, Granges are missing out on events that often double as fundraisers or rental income while still doing things to help individuals in their community or the community as a whole.


Joan Smith, Foundation Board President, said she hopes everyone will share the shirt information with friends and family.

“The appeal is there,” Smith said. “The shirts look great, they fit great, and they speak to so many of us at this time with all kinds of professions and lifestyles referenced around the big COVID virus looking object and the positive message: ‘We’re in this together.’”

She said she hopes Grange members and others will buy a shirt as a gift for those who are essential workers as well as one for themselves to truly show unity at this time.

“They’re out there, putting themselves at risk so we can get care or get food or gas or whatever,” Smith said. “They’re heroes, but we’re also part of the solution when we’re staying home and helping to flatten the curve. This shirt helps show that and I’m sure someone would find it a great gift to receive one and know you were thinking of them because there’s nothing we can do to thank them enough.”

Shirts are available for purchase at inthistogethershirt.weebly.com and all shirts are shipped free within the U.S.

They are red, 100% cotton, and come in sizes from newborn onesie to unisex 5XL, with youth and children’s sizes available, ranging from $12 to $17.50 based on size and style.

Smith encouraged everyone to wear it when it comes in the mail and share photos with friends as well as the link so they can also buy a shirt. For discounted bulk orders, contact Amanda Brozana Rios at communications@nationalgrange.org or by phone at (301) 943-1090.

Older Americans Act applauded by Generations United, Grange

WASHINGTON - During the current health crisis, Generations United applauds Congress for passing the Supporting Older Americans Act of 2020, now signed into law by the president. The Act - which includes a series of intergenerational provisions for which Generations United advocated - has been reauthorized through 2024.

The intergenerational provisions include grants for multigenerational programs and increased opportunities to serve grandparents and other relatives raising children.

The reauthorization comes during the current COVID-19 health crisis, where older adults over the age of 60 and people with compromised immune systems are asked to isolate themselves and not have contact with children and young people.

This isn't possible for the 2.4 million grandparents who have primary responsibility for raising their grandchildren. Like our first responders, grandparents and other relative caregivers are the first line of defense for the children in their care, keeping them safely with family and out of foster care.

These grandfamilies - older and younger members alike - can't take a break from each other.

We are pleased that the reauthorization of the Older Americans Act supports grandfamilies by removing the 10% cap on using National Family Caregivers Support Program (NFCSP) funds to serve grandparents and other relatives raising children.

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Dear Brothers and Sisters

First, all of us at the National Grange are keeping each of you in our thoughts and prayers, hoping that you’re following recommended advice and staying well physically and mentally during this challenging time. We know this virus outbreak has caused many disruptions and Grange work and events are among them. For some, this is the biggest month of the year with great Open House events, spectacular service and community events, major fundraisers and degree work that helps keep us all united.

This loss of time, though doesn’t have to mean a loss of momentum. In fact, many of us have agreed that the overwhelming feeling “out there” is that people are seeking to reconnect to each other and be united. Our theme “Cultivating Connections” could not have been better. We were built for this. We know how to shine in times of crisis. We know how to bring our communities together. We know the importance of being connected to our neighbors and our leaders.

While our theme is spot-on, the original imaging now feels wrong. Since we simply cannot in good conscience look like we’re encouraging physical touch at this time, we hope you’ll use the images provided in this email below instead on your social channels and other platforms.

We have also provided a PDF flyer that you can download that takes the place of the Open House poster you would normally put out to your community. Why not send it to some of your community leaders who have had very tough decisions to make on their citizens’ behalf this past month. Send it or provide it to your neighbors. Let them know the Grange is still here and ready to welcome them in when this is all behind us. We’re in this together and we’re there to cultivate connections yesterday, today and always.

If you haven’t joined us for our daily “Cultivating Connections During the time of COVID” live sessions on our Facebook Page, consider doing so. Like our Page and see what we’ve been posting (all livestreams can be watched at a later time) so you, too, can feel connected to Grange at this time. We are also working to make them available on YouTube and getting more fun, entertaining and educational speakers and leaders lined up to take part all through Grange Month.

There is so much more to say. - consider moving your monthly meeting online or to a conference call, activate or create a phone tree; write a note; send a card; cultivate connections among your members so none feel alone at this time, and within your community - but the most important is: be safe, stay well.

Fraternally,

Amanda Brozana Rios
Communications & Development Director






March 2020


POLICY UPDATES and ISSUE NEWS MARCH 2020 WRAP-UP

Overview

“These are the times that try men’s souls. The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis, shrink from the services of their country, but he that stands by it now, deserves the love and thanks of man and woman.” These words by Thomas Paine in December 1776 spoke to a deepening crisis in America, the Revolutionary War.

Another crisis with a dramatically different and unseen enemy now grips the soul of our nation. But as in 1776, the patriot spirit in America is alive and well. COVID-19 has become a common enemy that is bringing us together as we tackle serious new medical, economic and societal challenges.

As the infection rate from the virus rises exponentially and the death rate climbs, the medical community is trying everything in its arsenal to mitigate this disease and some interventions seem to be working. The President, governors and mayors have taken drastic but necessary lock-down steps to limit crowds and movement to slow disease transmission.

Stocks tumbled and unemployment skyrocketed as a result. Congress and the President responded with financial aid packages to mitigate some of the severity of the tanking economy. The President formally triggered the Defense Production Act which gives the federal government authority to require, if necessary, industries to release supplies and step up production of respirators, masks, gowns and gloves for medical personnel.

Family becomes family and neighbors become neighbors in these times. Grangers nationwide have opened their hearts, their hands, their sense of community; their halls and their wallets to stand in the gap.

AGRICULTURE AND FOOD

One Million Meals to Rural Students/Funds for Feeding Programs

USDA is collaborating with Baylor University Collaborative on Hunger and Poverty, McLean Global and PepsiCo to deliver food boxes to rural children affected by school closures who may not know where their next meal is coming from. Each box contains five days’ worth of shelf stable food. The initiative brings industry innovations and best practices together with USDA to combat rural hunger. Additional vendors are being encouraged to participate. The partnership is expected to quickly increase from 200,000 meals per week to 1,000,000. In addition, Congress passed, and the President signed, a relief package that expands domestic feeding programs, emergency food assistance programs and suspends SNAP work requirements during the emergency.

A Bus for Lunch?

We’re aware of some closed rural school districts who are busing food instead of students. The cafeteria workers show up at 6:00 am, prepare the usual number of free meals for the day, load the meals on buses, then make normal bus routes to drop off meals instead of picking up kids.

Restocking Grocery Shelves

The nation’s food supply chain is responding to restock empty store shelves caused by panic buying and restaurant closures. There is plenty of food available, but the challenge is to keep plants staffed and running with large numbers of workers (while simultaneously preventing COVID-19 infections) to ensure a steady supply moving forward. The Administration has suspended hours-of-service rules to enable critical industries truckers to shorten delivery times.

Targeting Farmer Stress

The National Grange joined other agriculture and rural groups to request congress fully fund the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network in the FY 2020 appropriations package. Mental health challenges faced by farmers, ranchers, farmworkers and rural residents are 48% higher than a year ago and 68% of rural residents live in areas with mental health professional shortages. Cost, embarrassment and stigma are the main barriers to seeking help.

ECONOMY

Stocks Nose Dive

A resilient U.S. economy has been derailed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The stock market crash wiped out three years of gains. As events, attractions, festivals, parades, meetings, conventions and other gatherings are canceled and schools, universities and businesses close, workers, suppliers, small businesses and the economy at large lose crucial consumer spending.

Help is on the Way

A $2.2 trillion economic rescue package, the largest in U.S. history, is on the way to Americans. However, it will take some time for the benefits to trickle down to intended recipients. There’s funding for hospitals, medical personnel and scarce medical supplies; financial aid for individuals and families, small business, industries, child care, and seniors assistance; emergency education; emergency transit needs; buffer capital for Treasury Department loans; deferments on federal student loan payments until September 30; emergency feeding programs and local food systems; $14 billion to replenish USDA’s Commodity Credit Corporation fund, and $9.5 billion for livestock, dairy and specialty crops (vegetables, fruits, nuts) which have not traditionally been included in USDA aid.

Tax Breaks for Small Business

The National Grange joined independent and small business interests on a letter to President Trump, House Speaker Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader McConnell urging them to take immediate action to minimize the number of businesses closed and workers unemployed. The group suggested Washington’s response include, but not be limited to:


. Readily accessible, unsecured credit for employers of all sizes to pay workers, rent and other operating costs during this crisis
. Suspend filing of business returns and the payment of all business taxes for the duration of the pandemic
. Amend the Tax Code to restore the ability for businesses to carryback net operating losses against previous year tax payments, suspend the limit on interest expense deductions for 2020,
. Allow businesses to fully deduct any losses incurred this year.

Keep the Mail Running

The National Grange and a group of business organizations petitioned the leadership of the Senate and House Homeland Security and Government Affairs Committees to include funding in the coronavirus relief package as necessary to keep the USPS fully functional during this crisis and beyond.

HEALTH CARE

Rural is not a Virus Barrier

The Centers for Disease Control warns farmers, ranchers and rural residents that remoteness is not necessarily a barrier against COVID-19, citing the flu epidemic of 1916 that spread to the far reaches of Alaska. Rural residents are urged to follow the same precautions and sanitary measures as more densely populated areas.

National Emergency Boosts Rural Hospitals

Designation of a national emergency by President Trump gives over 1,350 rural Critical Access Hospitals better funding, higher Medicare reimbursement rates, expanded bed space and the ability to keep patients longer to combat the coronavirus. The emergency declaration waives existing rules that had restricted rural hospitals and opens up access to $50 billion in funds to provide health care professionals more flexibility to fight COVID-19. The 126 rural hospitals that have closed since 2010 were negatively impacted by the whittling away of Medicare reimbursement and choices of states not to expand Medicaid.

Biopharmaceutical Industry Responds

These companies are coming together to share new technology, research and treatments in the battle against COVID-19 by:


. Screening global libraries of medicines to identify potential treatments
. Initiating clinical trials to test new and existing therapies
. Sharing results in real time with governments and other companies to advance the development of additional therapies
. Dedicating top scientists and investments in new technologies to speed the development of effective vaccines
. Donating supplies and medicines
. Coordinating with governments and diagnostic partners to increase testing capacity
. Keeping plants open to maintain a steady supply of medicines for patients
. Coordinating with governments and insurers to ensure that, when new treatments and vaccines are approved, they will be available and affordable for patients

Fix COVID-19 Access Barriers

The National Grange partnered with the patient advocacy community to urge governors, Medicaid directors, insurance commissioners and state boards of pharmacy to protect rare disease patients and high-risk populations during the COVID-19 crisis by:


. Require insurers to allow a one-time 90-day refill of covered prescriptions
. Require insurers to cover off-formulary prescription drugs if a formulary drug is not available
. Ensure prior authorization and reauthorization requirements do not restrict care and treatment
. Allow home infusion and injection services and appropriate reimbursement
. Extend appeal and fair hearing deadlines for patients seeking access to care and treatment
. Use flexibilities under section 1135(b)(1)(C) of the Social Security Act

Access to Vaccines

The National Grange and the patient advocacy community are urging the House leadership to quickly pass H.R. 5076, the Protecting Seniors Through Immunization Act. The legislation will make structural fixes to the inequities of Medicare Part D, including out-of-pocket payments and access to vaccines, that will provide substantial health and financial benefits to those over the age of 65.

IMMIGRATION, LABOR AND AG WORKFORCE

Essential Industries

Medical, food and supply chain businesses are essential industries in a national emergency. This means that drug companies, medical manufacturers, farmers and ranchers, suppliers, truckers, food processors, distributors, and outlets are exempt from emergency restrictions so that medical supplies and food are available to citizens.

Workforce is a Challenge

Temporary guest workers have become critical to agriculture and food production and processing. When the national emergency was first declared, it appeared borders would be closed to a vital labor force as well. Following a frenzied couple weeks, the ag worker picture is a bit brighter. After first announcing all visas processing would be suspended, Mexico reconsidered when ag workforce groups, USDA and the State Department intervened. Mexico will now continue to process H-2A visas, the State Department will prioritize H-2A visa applications, and some returning H-2A workers may qualify for interview waivers. Still, agriculture fears the available H-2A workforce will be lower this year.

Telecommunications

Telecom Industry Steps Up

As the COVID-19 pandemic became a national emergency in mid-March , FCC Chairman Pai, broadband and telephone service providers, and industry trade associations agreed to take the Keep America Connected Pledge to:


. Not terminate service for nonpayment of bills due to the pandemic
. Waive late fees because of economic circumstances related to the pandemic
. Open WI-FI hotspots to anyone who needs them

In addition, many providers said they would prioritize connectivity needs of hospitals and health care providers, work with schools and libraries on remote learning opportunities, and relax data caps and overage fees.

But the Digital Divide is Real

Rural students face a huge obstacle to distance learning as their schools and colleges close: connectivity. Nearly 12 million rural students lack reliable broadband access at home and won’t be able to access online lessons during prolonged closures. The lack of high-speed broadband into many rural areas prevents patients from virtual medical consultation and treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic isolation. While huge progress has been made with high-speed broadband deployment in the past few years, there are huge gaps in rural connectivity yet to be filled.

FCC Appoints National Grange President Huber

The Federal Communications Commission in consultation with Agriculture Secretary Perdue has established the Precision Agriculture Connectivity Task Force to learn from on-the-ground experiences of those using technology in modern farming. Four working groups have been appointed and National Grange president Betsy Huber will serve on the Accelerating Broadband Deployment on Unserved Agricultural Lands working group.

Another Broadband Innovation Approved

The National Grange commended the Federal Communications Commission for actions in March to clear regulatory barriers for greater use of unlicensed TV white spaces to deliver broadband service to rural America. Availability to TV white space technology for broadband has been a priority for the National Grange.

Better Broadband Mapping Data

How many rural Americans lack access to broadband internet? Well, somewhere between 17 and 42 million. So, does that means we don’t really know? The previous use of census data maps was largely inaccurate to reflect actual connectivity in rural areas. Bipartisan legislation passed by Congress and signed into law by the President on March 23 aims to correct that by creating more accurate mapping and better direct public and private investment in rural broadband deployments.

TRADE

Export movement

In late March, USDA announced sales of 756,000 metric tons of corn and 340,000 metric tons of hard red winter wheat to China. Also, in late March, USDA announced China’s approval of 492 beef plants and 449 pork plants which will now eligible to ship product to China.

Canada Approves USMCA

Canada’s House of Commons and Senate hurriedly passed the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement before going on recess to avoid exposure to the coronavirus. All three countries have now approved the trade pact which is considered a boost to American agriculture.

Funding for Export Markets

The National Grange and a large number of agriculture, fresh produce, commodity, forest and food organizations are asking Congress to fully fund USDA’s Market Access Program and the Foreign Market Development Program for FY ’20. Both programs are contingent upon 100 percent matching contributions from participating exporters.

PERPESPECTIVES

When we cannot act as we wish, we must act as we can. ~ Terence

If you can’t solve a problem, manage it. ~ Robert Schuller

It is not the most intellectual of the species that survives; it is not the strongest that survives; but the species that survives is the one that is able best to adapt and adjust to the changing environment in which it finds itself. ~ Leon C. Megginson

When you are finished changing, you’re finished. ~ Benjamin Franklin

Change is the law of life. And those who look only at the past or present are certain to miss the future. ~ John F. Kennedy

The way I see it, if you want the rainbow, you gotta put up with the rain. ~ Dolly Parton




MARCH 20, 2020

Master’s Message: Let’s change gears! Now, overall try to reduce use of Microplastics

By Betsy Huber, National President

Microplastics—what are they? In the past couple years we have had resolutions at National Grange concerning microbeads or microplastics and their danger to the environment.

I’m sure we’ve all noticed plastic waste along the roads and in fields—plastic bottles, food containers, plastic bags, even toys and rubber balls. These can easily be washed into ditches, streams and rivers in a rainstorm.

What happens to this plastic debris over time? Unfortunately some is consumed by wildlife. We’ve all seen terrible photos of marine animals and birds entangled in six-pack rings, or huge garbage areas in oceans where vast amounts of debris including plastic collects. Some of this floats on the surface, but much more consists of broken pieces suspended in the depths of water. It’s extremely difficult to clean up this type of plastic waste.

Plastics degrade over time but never go away. They break up into smaller and smaller pieces, eventually becoming microplastics and microscopic nanoplastics. They are found everywhere around the world and consist of microbeads, microfibers and broken-down pieces of plastic.

Microbeads are tiny abrasives found in washed-off cosmetics, cleansers and toothpaste. In 2015 Congress passed the Microbead-Free Waters Act, banning the use of microbeads in cosmetics and toothpaste. Manufacturers are phasing them out but they are still used and are still found in waterways.

Microfibers are tiny pieces of threads and fibers that break off clothing (nylon, polyester, rayon, acrylic and spandex). These fabrics shed fibers with every wash and they go down the drain into sewer systems and are discharged into waterways.

Microplastics can leach chemicals into the environment, but they also attract and concentrate heavy metals and organic pollutants dissolved in the water, making them even more dangerous.

Microplastics are present in both tap water and bottled water—in fact, a study showed that much more are present in bottled water than water from the tap. They are also consumed by aquatic life and bioaccumulate in the food chain, but we probably consume more from dust in the air than through eating seafood.

We can cut down on microplastics in the environment by reducing the use of single-use plastics; purchasing items with less packaging; using reusable water bottles and cups; and not using a plastic lid and straw when dining out. Science has not yet discovered a way to eliminate the waste already accumulated in the environment, but we can do our part by taking these actions so we don’t add to the problem.

Granges can use crisis as reason to embrace change, expand opportunities

By Joe Stefenoni, National Grange Membership and Leadership Development Director

This is certainly not the article I planned to be writing this month. As we all begin to adjust to our (temporary) normal, many of us may be left wondering “what will our Grange do as we’re all quarantined?” Although gatherings of multiple people are being discouraged (and banned in some jurisdictions) this does not mean that the Grange’s benefit cannot be extended to both the community and our members. Throughout the course of our history, the Grange has been a source of consistency and continuity to thousands of communities in times of crisis.

The theme for Grange Month 2020 is “Cultivating Connections”. While many areas may still not be able to host activities as April comes around, we as Granges can still cultivate connections with our members and our communities. This new temporary reality is a perfect opportunity for Granges to give additional responsibilities to some officers as the administrative officers handle the business of the Grange until we are able to convene meetings again. The Graces can be made responsible for contacting Grange members to check-in on their well-being. The Lecturer/Program Director can continue to develop programs that educate and enliven both members and non-members. As movement restrictions are lifted, the Stewards could be responsible for picking-up and delivering items to members who are more susceptible of contracting an infection.

Connections can also be cultivated with members of our communities. As we are quarantined or are sheltered in place, Grange leaders can be keeping abreast of what the community needs and will need. As day-to-day life returns to normal, our Granges can be the at the forefront of the community to ease the transition. Community socials, educational forums and other events that bring the community together will be essential in the upcoming months. Social media and technology-based platforms like your Grange’s grange.org website, Facebook, blogs and Zoom are all useful in engaging both Grange members and community members.

Please share with all Granges and members the advisory issues by National Grange Master/President Betsy Huber regarding the use of digital platforms for conducting Grange business. This can be an opportunity for Community Granges to evaluate their use of technology and find new ways to incorporate tech tools into the regular operations of your Grange.

Finally, this is not the first major national event that has occurred in the Grange’s long and illustrious history. Just as our predecessors, it is our responsibility to look to the care and comfort of the Grange as we relieve the distresses of our Sisters and Brothers.

FCC uses variety of approaches to provide assistance in response to COVID-19

Gathered by National Grange Legislative Director Burton Eller

Broadband community steps up

The internet and telephone provider community took actions this week to increase speeds, lift data caps, and offer 60 days or more free service to students and low income households. The response of 24 companies to FCC Chairman Pai’s call to pull out all the stops will help Americans stay connected during this pandemic. Pai also urged the remaining telecom companies to get on board.

Radio and television broadcasters can help

On a conference call this week, Chairman Pai commended radio and television broadcasters for their coronavirus response so far. Pai then challenged the broadcasters to work with cable and satellite operators to avoid blackouts and service disruptions over the next 60 days.

Other emergency measures

In additional actions by the FCC, several cellular companies were granted temporary access to additional spectrum to help meet the increased pandemic demand, and certain and recertification requirements for the Lifeline program were waived for 60 days to assure continuance of service for the program many rural citizens depend upon.

What Government Should and Shouldn’t Do to Advance the Mobile Tech Revolution in Agriculture

The convergence of technology and agriculture has revolutionized modern farming. From streamlining communication, to allowing remote crop monitoring via wireless sensors, to guiding farm machinery, there are scores of examples of ways in which modern farmers and ranchers rely on mobile devices to make their operations not just more efficient, but more sustainable. As our attention shifts to confronting the array of threats stemming from the coronavirus and we seek to mitigate risks, mobile connectivity has become vital for everything from connecting students and teachers, working remotely, checking in with loved ones, and longer term planning. Many of us will be focused on increased efficiencies and stretching resources in the face of serious economic hardship in the days, weeks and months ahead.

Leveraging technology will be a critical component of how we make the necessary changes to how we live, learn, and work, going forward. The good news is that for many of us in and around the agriculture industry and those of us who reside in rural America, adoption of mobile technology is nothing new.

A survey conducted at the American Farm Bureau Federation’s 101st Annual Convention and Trade Show in Austin, TX of more than 250 conference attendees – including farmers, ranchers, and others working in the sector – provides a snapshot of the widespread use of mobile technology in agriculture and underscores the need for government policies that promote continued access to mobile devices.

When convention attendees were asked, “How important are mobile electronic devices or other connected technologies with apps, to your farm or farm-related activities?,” the results were stark. 86% of respondents said mobile electronic devices or other connected technologies were either “Essential” or “Very Important.” Less than 3% said mobile technology was “Not Important.”


* Essential 55.95%
* Very Important 29.76%
* Somewhat Important 11.51%
* Not Important 2.78%

But continued access to the mobile devices that farmers and ranchers need is not a foregone conclusion. Several government agencies have correctly recognized the hurdles that rural communities face in securing mobile access; the FCC, for example, has pledged billions in funding to establish 5G connectivity in rural communities, which has the potential to transform agriculture.

Unfortunately, however, another federal agency is placing rural access to modern technology at risk. The US International Trade Commission (or “ITC”)—an agency that is supposed to protect American industry against unfair foreign competition—has in recent years seen a host of petitions filed by rent-seeking entities threatening “exclusion orders” that would ban the importation of smart phones and other connected devices that are used widely in rural America.

One current ITC case that we are watching anxiously targets devices made by Amazon, Dell, HP, Microsoft, Motorola Mobility, and Samsung. The exclusion order, which is requested by an Ireland-based patent troll, would bar the importation of more than 50% of all Android smartphones and 97% of premium Android smartphones, in addition to 80% of Android tablets. That exclusion would be devastating for the nearly 40% of Farm Bureau survey respondents who said they rely on Android devices—not to mention the millions of other Americans who do as well.

On February 14, the same Irish troll filed a second ITC complaint, this time threatening even wider harm to rural access to mobile devices. Brazenly, the troll asked the ITC bar the importation of touchscreen products from Amazon, Apple, ASUS, LG, Microsoft, Motorola, Samsung, and Sony. Combined, those companies comprise over 90% of the U.S. smartphone and tablet markets. If the Commission goes along this order would present a sweeping blow that would drastically widen the digital divide and hamper the array of modern agriculture operations that rely on mobile connectivity.

Federal agencies should be encouraging, not hindering, rural access to affordable connected devices. Farm Bureau Convention attendees agreed—the respondents were nearly unanimous when asked whether they believed that “government policies and institutions should never restrict farmers’ access to the latest technology and mobile electronic devices”:


* Strongly Agree 86.51%
* Somewhat Agree 11.11%
* Somewhat Disagree .79%
* Strongly Disagree 1.59%

That’s a compelling statement about the strong bond with between today’s farmers and mobile technology. The more that farmers can harness the power of mobile technology to become more efficient, competitive, and sustainable, the better for everyone. The U.S. government must remain committed to fostering equal access in rural America. It is critical that agencies fully consider the effects of their actions on the public especially where government action could substantially hinder rural connectivity.

click images to enlarge

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MARCH 12, 2020

Master’s Message: Be safe, use caution, find opportunities to cultivate connections in face of COVID-19

By Betsy Huber, National President

Everyone is talking about the coronavirus and every day I’m getting notices of meetings postponed or canceled. Each day brings new updates, information, and events canceled. At the Grange, we have tried to balance prevention and reduction of risk with care not to cause panic. However, we have made some changes to the Grange calendar as part of our precautions.

The Mid-Atlantic Leaders Conference has been canceled, many State and local Granges have been sending cancellation notices for meetings and events they were planning to ensure they are protecting their members and communities.

We know the risk from this virus is low, but many of our members are or socialize with people in high-risk groups, especially the elderly, at Grange functions and in their daily lives. For this reason, we implore you to be mindful and proactive so we can be part of the solution, helping to contain this novel virus as well as other nasty viruses such as the “typical” flu. The best thing you can do is take all necessary and advised precautions, which in some cases includes self-quarantine.

Yesterday I issued a statement for all Grangers and hope you will share it. One specific thing to note is that in the face of such an emerging health crisis, the Bylaw (6.12.1) that requires Subordinate Granges to meet monthly will not be enforced. However, this should not be an excuse to avoid fellowship and interaction with your community.

For Granges, remember that we now have the option to hold Grange meetings virtually. Free conference call options are available where members all call in to one phone number and can talk to each other and conduct business. Zoom or Skype are also available. Don’t let the virus keep you from your Grange business or separate you from your Grange friends! If you do meet in person, avoid hugs or handshakes, whispering the passwords, or sharing refreshments.

We also hope you will use this as an opportunity to Cultivate Connections. As some individuals choose to limit their social interaction and stay indoors, feelings of isolation and loneliness may occur. The Grange theme for 2020 is “Cultivating Connections” and this time of preventative isolation allows us to do that in a truly meaningful, though different way than we may have imagined.

Let’s take this as an opportunity to reconnect with our Grange family and with those far outside our membership. Commit to calling or writing a letter to a different individual each day to check in. Let’s make this a movement, starting right here with the Grange, to ensure that everyone across our great country has regular and meaningful social contact and knows that Grangers care.

You may even find this a great reason to reconnect with long-lost Grange friends, those who you used to attend Junior/Juvenile Grange or Youth events with. Tell them what it means to you to remain active in the Grange today and encourage them to reconnect. Maybe they can start with a subscription to our quarterly Good Day! magazine. The next issue is due to arrive in mailboxes in mid-April.

As of this newsletter, our National Grange office in Washington, D.C., remains open. However, since the Junior and Youth Washington DC Experience was held at our building and our staff assisted, and a few of the attendees visited an office where a staff member later tested positive for COVID-19 (likely not one who was in the office at the time our members were) – our office may close due to illness or prevention, or because of an emergency order by the government.

We will keep you posted if any operations are suspended but we will appreciate your patience if there is delayed response to your requests, as our staff may be required to take leave or work remotely and be unable to fulfill some specific tasks.

Hopefully the virus and the fear will be over soon and we can get back to the good work of the Grange with our dinners, fundraisers, community service projects, and all the other activities of Grange.

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First ever Washington DC Experience for Youth, Juniors a success

By Amanda Brozana Rios, National Grange Communications & Development Director

Nearly two dozen members attended the first ever Washington DC Experience for Youth and Juniors over the past week. The event began on Saturday, March 7 with welcome activities and a workshop on how to properly shake hands and make a great first impression.

On Sunday, attendees toured the National Grange headquarters, enjoying being the first to use the newly renovated conference room. They also learned from past Youth Ambassadors Derek Snyder, Pennsylvania, and Rylee Furr, North Carolina. Snyder, who is currently the State Outstanding Young Patron, is a constituent specialist for PA State Representative Torren Ecker and presented an overview of the three branches of government and their basic functions. He also discussed how a bill becomes a law.

Furr is a junior at NC State University with a major in polymer chemistry, oriented toward agriculture, and political science minor, and campus coordinator for Turning Point USA, a conservative student organization. She did a workshop on Grange policies and the difference between partisanship, bipartisan approaches and nonpartisan advocacy.

The two also organized and facilitated mock interviews, employing parents and chaperones as interviewees of youth and Junior participants to give them a taste of what it would be like when they visited the offices of their members of Congress.

Coronavirus 19 weighed heavy over the event and there was concern that the attendees would not be able to be seen at scheduled appointments on the Hill. More than a dozen Juniors and chaperones from Florida were unable to attend because their school had sponsored their participation and had already canceled all school trips and activities due to virus concerns.

After the mock interviews, participants took a tour of the Smithsonian National Museum of American History, then returned to the building for dinner.

Potomac Grange President Joan Smith, who also serves as chairwoman of the National Grange Foundation and “state contact” for National Ag in the Classroom to Washington D.C., presented a workshop on cotton ginning and the various uses of fiber.

Later the group boarded a trolley for a private guided tour of Washington, D.C. that included a stop at the National Grange monument on the Mall as well as many other well-known monuments and memorials.

On Monday, the group traveled to the USDA headquarters, took a tour and met with Torey Powell, National Coordinator for Agricultural Youth Programs for the Office of Partnership and Public Engagement, who presented information about rural youth programming and career opportunities.

Back at the National Grange Headquarters, Jon Conradi, Outreach Director for Connect Americans Now, spoke to the group about the progress being made in the fight for broadband expansion and how these young advocates could assist. CAN, who is a partner of the Grange, sponsored several meals for the four-day event.

Next on the agenda was a tour of the Capitol, then travel to Reuters News, where they toured and heard a presentation by Katharine Jackson, a producer who told the group about how news decisions are made by journalists, editors and producers and what ultimately appears on their screens.

After they returned to the National Grange building, National Grange Membership and Leadership Development Director Joe Stefenoni spoke during dinner about how to apply lessons learned this week to participants’ community Grange experience, including how to write effective resolutions.

The highlight of the week for attendees was getting to meet with and discuss issues with members of Congress or their staff on Tuesday and Wednesday. Each participant had at least three different appointments set by National Grange Intern Heather Simon. Juniors and Youth impressed with a range of subjects they advocated for, including rural broadband, telehealth, school lunch programs, sustainability, anti-bullying and cyber-bullying and much more.

The event closed with a Celebration of Young Advocates dinner where Junior Ambassadors Brianna Gervais, Connecticut, and Bryce Danko, Pennsylvania, presented a review of their participation in the National Grange Fly-in just weeks before in New Hampshire.



NEW ISSUE OF THE CALIFORNIA GRANGER

IN THIS ISSUE –

WHAT’S YOUR GRANGE’S I.Q.? – PG. 14

SARATOGA WARHORSE PROJECT – pg. 5

WISDOM OF FLORA – FIRST DEGREE – pg. 4

GROWING THE GRANGE – pg. 1

UPRISING FARM INTERNSHIP – pg. 16

PLUS SO MUCH MORE . . .

Click the button below to view the full PDF version of The California Granger!!! or keep scrolling for images.

(Hint: If the image is too small, hold the key and press the <+> key to increase the image size on your browser screen.)




MARCH 6, 2020

Master’s Message: Youngest Grangers have big week ahead in DC

By Betsy Huber, National President

The Grange office is humming with anticipation of more than 30 visitors, mostly Junior Grangers, coming tomorrow through Wednesday for the Washington DC Experience, conducted by the National Grange Junior and Youth Departments.

They have a very busy schedule planned for them, including a tour of the Capitol, a nighttime trolley tour of the monuments, and the Smithsonian Museum of American History. They will hear speakers at the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Bloomberg Media, and learn how to talk to their Legislators when they meet individually with them on Tuesday. Each attendee has three appointments on the Hill, thanks to the hard work of Legislative Intern Heather Simon who has been on the phone for weeks setting up the meetings.

Several of our young adults who have an interest in the political process or are employed in the government will be speaking to the group about their own experiences and how Grangers can make a difference if they have the desire.

Because this is a presidential election year and voting is constantly in the news, this is a great time to teach our Juniors and Youth the importance of our democratic form of government and how they can have a voice even at their young age. We hope to excite them now so civic responsibility, interest in government and voting will stick with them through their entire lives. Be sure to watch on Facebook to see all their adventures!

Take pride in Grange logo and name by using each correctly

By Amanda Brozana-Rios, Communications Director

The National Grange

Logos and branding are important.

Imagine if a supplier printing bags or wrappers for McDonalds decided to make the “M” more sharp like this font and not look like the golden arches you’re used to or if they changed the color to teal instead of a golden yellow.

If you had paid a person to get your McDonalds and they brought you burgers in the “off brand” bag and wrapper, would you still believe that the food you were about to eat was coming from a real McDonalds restaurant?

The same is true when we talk about the Grange logo.

As we prepare for Grange Month in April, this is an important area to address, since many of our Granges will create flyers, banners, shirts, postcards, social media images or other publicity items and take for granted the correct use of our logo because “it’s not that important.”

Logos in different colors other than our standard; logos with different items in the center other than the standard wheat sheaf, such as musical instruments, or with words on top of parts of the seven-sided emblem; logos that have been stretched or squished; logos that still use the ™ or use no trademark symbol at all instead of the correct ® are out there, everywhere, being created today and used by Granges all over the country. Similarly Granges and Grange members creating posts, press releases, flyers and more often are guilty of failing to capitalize the word Grange.

Grange is a proper noun and as such deserves respect. Just as you wouldn’t want to be “darlene” or “james” or “betsy,” neither does a pillar of an institution like the Grange want to lose its stature by being written with a lowercase “g” to begin the word.

Incorrect, improperly used or modified logos and improper use of the word Grange are all bad news for our organization. People outside our Halls who see these derivations start to think less of our organization because they do not believe us to be professional or have brand standards – and something without the simple brand standards looks disorganized and unlikely to succeed.

Further, those who do not see Grange capitalized and Grange logos with ® may easily breeze by it, not considering that it is a protected trademark, and begin using it as their own – infringing and causing us to spend more money to defend our name as required by law for those who hold trademarks.

When using the Grange logo, it’s important that you can see the ® mark – so if you’re using it on a white or light background, the logo with the blue ® is appropriate, where if you use it on a dark background, the logo with a white ® is appropriate.

You should always make sure to “scale proportionally” so the logo keeps its same shape. To do this, hold the Shift key and drag from the corner on most programs. Some programs, like Canva, automatically scale proportionally when you use a corner anchor to resize the object and do not require you to hold the Shift key.

The Grange Youth and Junior Grange logos should appear with a ™ symbol in the standard accepted colors and fonts.

For the Junior Grange this is red and black with the Comic Sans font or no words. Three options are available. For larger scale designs, the design with the Grange logo on the shoe is preferred, only if it is distinguishable (typically sized 3” wide or larger). For smaller scale designs, the logo with JG in the place of the Grange emblem is acceptable or no image in the white of the shoe, but Junior Grange written below is acceptable. Or, you can use the logo with the shoes that has JG in the white of one shoe with both shoes inside a seven-sided shape. This is available in black or red and black.

For Grange Youth the colors are dark green and lime green with additional brand options in orange, yellow. The font is Neutraface Text or the logo may be used without words. Both can be reproduced in all white or all black or black and white or grayscale.

No one is perfect and mistakes happen – often more frequently than we wish. But we do our best to minimize our mistakes and checking just these two simple things each time we create anything for the Grange – even just an informal text or email to a friend or a reporter where we invite them to a Grange event – can make all the difference. We all should be proud of the Grange and as such, take pride in our presentation. It’s like mom always said – dress for success. So is true about using the correct brand standards in language and images.

As of 2019, Grange Youth and Junior Grange logos started carrying a ™. Other accepted versions of each of these logos are available and should be used when these are ill-fitting for reproduction, such as fitting the Junior logo in very small spaces or reproducing the Youth logo in black and white.

THE CORRECT LOGO



The correct Grange logo includes “registered trademark” ® symbol and correct colors; is proportionally scaled and does not look squished or distorted and is given “room to breathe” from nearby text or objects.

THE WRONG LOGO



The most common logo standard violation is using the old ™ trademark symbol instead of the current ® - a designation important in relation to our trademark fight.

While Granges can “get away” with using old banners with the ™, anything new created should have the ®.

DISTORTED LOGO



This logo has been distorted by changing the size without “scaling proportionally.” You can see it looks squished. This is one of the most common mistakes made by Granges when creating materials and including the Grange logo. Make sure your designer knows how to scale images proportionally before you create products with a badly reproduced and incorrect version of the logo.

VARIOUS PROBLEMS



This logo has a number of problems. The colors have been changed. It is incomplete at the bottom, does not include a ® and has been scaled incorrectly. It also has a different wheat sheaf and the word Grange is not in the right font.

We cannot expect that others respect our trademark and our brand if we don’t do it ourselves. Please help us to ensure the millions of dollars spent to maintain our trademark and respect of our brand has not been in vain by doing this bit of quality control for everything you and your Grange creates from here forward and make sure to tell others why doing the same is so important.

In 2020, we will be making a concerted effort to contact Granges producing materials with the incorrect logo, as well as Granges and reporters who do not capitalize the word Grange. We hope you will help us in this effort and if you see an issue be proactive in changing to adhere to our brand standards. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we move forward.

All current and correct Grange logos are available for your use to download at http://bit.ly/3aynYv7 (the link is case sensitive, so the single capitalized letter “Y” must be capitalized in your browser’s address bar for the Google Drive folder to appear). You can direct any branding questions to me at communications@nationalgrange.org or you can text or call me directly at (301) 943-1090.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE CURRENT GRANGE LOGOS

A letter is also available through the Communications Department that assures any vendor you are working with – from cake decorators to printers – that you have permission as a chartered Grange or Grange member in good standing to use the Grange name and/or logo for projects and products so long as that use is not for personal gain. Granges may use the logo and name for all promotional materials, fundraisers, etc., in good taste as approved by the Grange.

Grange Month poster, social images, other materials released

On Wednesday, the Grange Month 2020 information was released to all members via email. The proclamation, poster, social media images and press release template were all part of the package and can help you to spread the message about the Grange and how we are Cultivating Connections today and beyond. Please download and use these resources for your Grange’s upcoming activities for April and beyond.

CLICK HERE TO GET GRANGE MONTH MATERIALS

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You may have noticed that we have been making improvement to the Grange Website. The latest on is a change to the color scheme. We'll continue to add additional graphics and our goal is to add a site search for our website in the next few months.

Any comments should be directed to the Webmaster - Bill Booth



April is Grange Month, and we are thrilled to celebrate our 153rd year of National Grange. Once again it’s time for us to applaud the greatest organization, The National Grange of the Order of Patrons of Husbandry.

We have a proud history of supporting, educating, advocating, and sometimes fighting for rural Americans. I hope that you have made plans to celebrate our 153rd year and our continued efforts to improve-- increasing the skills, talents, and knowledge of our members, making our communities better places to live, providing common sense solutions to our State and Nation. In this time of extreme partisanship, incivility, and lack of respect for our fellow men and women, the Grange is needed more than ever.

Our traditions of civic involvement, open discussions of difficult issues, civil discourse and respect for all, make Grange a valuable contributor to every community across America. We need to let our neighbors know that by making a special effort to open the doors of your hall and welcoming interested residents of your community to an activity. Or step outside your hall and share the benefits of our Order with the good citizens that live nearby. We have often been the best kept secret but we need to change that now!

Our theme this year is “Cultivating Connections” and Grange Month is the perfect time to do just that. As I talk with Grangers and others throughout our country, I find people who are interested and enthused about our organization. Youth and young adults seek opportunities to learn and improve themselves for better careers and better lives. Parents tell me of the challenges that society often places in the way of teaching their children American values. The newly retired are looking for places to give back or develop interests that they postponed during their careers. To all of these, the Grange is the solution-- all they need is an invitation to be a part of our family.

Please cultivate those connections in your community and invite some of these folks to join our organization this month. Share with them what your community Grange does and give them the opportunity to be part of our national organization. And most of all, celebrate and have fun!

Fraternally,

Betsy E. Huber
National Master



February 2020


FEBRUARY 2020 WRAP-UP

Presidential Politics

In keeping with Grange tradition, the National Grange Fly-In this year was to New Hampshire to experience the "First in the Nation" Presidential Primary. The excursion included thirty Grangers from eight states and the District of Columbia, who worked on the various campaigns of their choice, watched a candidates' debate, marveled at the vastness of worldwide media coverage, learned about the early days of New Hampshire statehood, enjoyed breakfast at the New Hampshire State Grange Building compliments of president Chris Heath, and ate seafood at the local favorite. We appreciate the planning and hard work of Grange members Bob Haefner and Tara Sad and their team of New Hampshire Grangers. Bob and Tara are former long-time Chairman and Ranking Minority Member of the New Hampshire House Agriculture Committee.

On the campaign trail since then, Democratic presidential candidates have touched on agriculture and rural issues occasionally. Joe Biden makes the case for rebuilding ports, locks and dams, roads, bridges and the electric grid. Amy Klobuchar wants to improve high-speed internet connectivity across rural America and proposes to target $650 billion for infrastructure projects. Pete Buttigieg wants to create a clean energy bank by partnering with farmers to capture carbon in the soil. On the Republican trail, President Trump is touting his $1 trillion "Revitalizing Rural America" infrastructure initiative for broadband and numerous other rural projects.

Agriculture and Food

Changing Dairy Landscape

It's no secret that the dairy segment has long experienced falling prices, processor consolidation, rising small farmer bankruptcies and plant-based product competition. Most recently, dairy food giant Dean Foods Company filed for bankruptcy and agreed to sell its assets to dairy cooperative Dairy Farmers of America signaling further industry consolidation. A bit of good news however is the fact that consumers are actually buying more dairy foods overall, including sizable increases in butter and cheese.

USDA: Cut Environmental Footprint in Half

USDA wants agriculture to halve its environmental footprint by 2050 with climate friendly farming. Targets include increasing productivity by 40% while reducing nutrient loss by 30%. Proven techniques to capture atmospheric carbon include good time-proven management practices that include cover crops, no-till planting and incorporating organic material back into the soil. In the meantime, production agriculture groups are initiating coalition efforts around sustainability. Producers are focusing efforts first on information-gathering and dissemination to ensure decision-makers and the public at large are not misled by misinformation accusing agriculture of contributing more greenhouse gasses to the atmosphere than the facts support.

Grange Weighs in on Gene Editing

Altering the genetic code of animals has the potential of leap-frogging several generations of natural selection to improve disease resistance, enhance animal well-being and increase the quantity and quality of food produced according to a statement released by National Grange president Betsy Huber. She urged FDA to move quickly to approve these techniques in food producing animals while assuring such techniques do not introduce unintended harmful consequences. In many cases, more confirming research may be necessary. To better navigate the animal biotechnology landscape, the National Grange is supportive of USDA and FDA splitting regulatory oversight of gene-edited animals.

Safer Leafy Greens?

Food safety may be one force pushing the adoption of indoor farming. The potential deadly E.coli 0157:H7 has been responsible for numerous leafy green recalls in recent years. Pathogen contamination can be introduced from the soil, irrigation water, rinse water, feral animals, facility surfaces and worker hands. Hydroponically and greenhouse-grown leafy greens in controlled environments are much less susceptible to pathogen contamination. These production units also have locally-grown and year-round appeal.

Hemp Production is Still a Roller Coaster

Several times over the past year the National Grange has advised members to be judicious when considering growing hemp. This was primarily due to the shortage of processing facilities and lack of approval from FDA for human use. As a result of these barriers, hemp product prices in nearly all categories have dropped as much as 80%.

"Sustainability" is More than a Marketing Gimmick

Farmers, ranchers, landowners and rural neighbors take pride in their long-standing reputation as America's original conservationists and good stewards of the land, water, air, animals, natural resources and environment in which they live and work. They have been doing things right for generations just to survive. They know what sustainability really means because it wasn't just spoken, it was practiced. It meant you put back more than you took out so you could become more sustainable with each passing year. Without this commitment by the folks down country roads, America could not have become the breadbasket to the world. The next time we see a corporation, food processor, fast food chain or politician tout their "sustainability" record , maybe we should invite them to come on over and partner with the original sustainability experts, the grassroots food producer.

Health Care

Beware of Fake Drugs

The National Grange is leading a coalition of patient groups to raise awareness of the dangers of imported drugs that may be ineffective and even dangerous. Most recently, the National Grange joined the Oklahoma State Grange and sixteen patient and veterans groups on a letter to the Oklahoma Legislature which is considering a bill to allow imported prescription drugs. The letter cautioned that the assumption these medicines from Canada and certain European countries are safe is not correct. As an example, Canada allows drugs manufactured in a third country to be transshipped through Canada with absolutely no oversight as to the drug's safety or effectiveness. A drug mixed in a third world country may be a worthless placebo, the wrong formulation, a different concentration or it may contain ingredients that are actually harmful to the patient's health.

Better Access to Drugs

The Department of Health and Human Services is taking steps to lower prescription drug prices. Their goal is to increase competition among generic and biosimilar drugs. In addition, these drugs should become available to Medicare plans more quickly. The National Grange remains concerned that even when drug prices fall, heath insurance companies sometimes prefer the original higher priced product if they can negotiate a larger rebate payment from the manufacturer and then apply the rebate to reduce insurance premiums for all policy holders with little benefit to the prescription-holder at the pharmacy counter.

Taxes

The National Grange has joined with the Reserve Officers Association of the United States to support H.R. 801, The Reserve Component Employer Incentive, Compensation and Relief Act of 2019. The bill, introduced by Representative Tim Ryan (D-13, OH), would allow employers who hire military reserve members to claim a tax credit up to $11,000 per employee.

Telecommunications

The Digital Divide is Closing

Rural broadband deployment has been a top priority of the National Grange for over a decade. Early progress was slow, but Granger efforts are coming to fruition with a large uptick in efforts to reach families, farms, schools, businesses and more in the "last mile". Federal Communications Commission data show great progress has been made over the past two years resulting in:
• 74% reduction in the number of Americans without access to 250/25 mbps internet service
• 30% reduction in the number of citizens without access to 25/3 mbps internet service
• 52% increase in the number of rural families with access to two or more 25/3 mbps option

TV White Space Cleared for Broadband

The Federal Communications Commission will remove longstanding regulatory barriers and clear the way for unlicensed white space devices to deliver wireless broadband services in rural areas. The so-called TV white space devices operate in portions of the broadcast television bands and spectrum not currently being used. It appears to be well-suited to reach the "last mile" in rural areas with low population density and challenging topographies. National Grange president Betsy Huber released a statement applauding the announcement by FCC Chairman Pai.

More Devices than Humans
The latest Cisco Annual Internet Report forecast projects that by 2023 there will be three times more networked devices on Earth than humans. About half the global connections will be machine-to-machine connections. Around 70% of the global population will have mobile-network-based connectivity by 2023. Of those, about 10% will be 5G connections.

Perspective

Truth will ultimately prevail where pains is taken to bring it to light ~ George Washington

Be true to your work, your word, and your friend. ~ Henry David Thoreau

An honest man's the noblest work of God. ~ Robert Burns

Honesty is the first chapter of the book of wisdom. ~ Thomas Jefferson


A lie gets halfway around the world before the truth has a chance to put its pants on. ~ Winston Churchill



FEBRUARY 21, 2020

Master’s Message: State Masters meet, prepare to bring resources home

By Betsy Huber, National President

Your State Masters and National Officers gathered in Baltimore, Maryland, last weekend for the annual Masters Conference planned by the National Grange. All agreed that this year’s conference was one of the best ever. It was certainly one of the best attended, with 56 people registered.

Many thanks to Maryland, Delaware, and Pennsylvania State Granges for sponsoring the event and especially to Kay and Allen Stiles for their outstanding hospitality. Valentine’s gift baskets and door prizes galore! They even took tours on Friday to the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis.

The conference featured round-robin workshops by six National staff members and a panel discussion on membership successes of two State Masters and a state membership director. Two excellent outside speakers on ag education rounded out the program. Since it was Valentine’s Day we also had an “Not-so-Newlyweds” Game that was lots of fun.

At the beginning of the weekend I challenged those present to “Cultivate Connections” among their peers while at the conference. The job of State Master is stressful, difficult, challenging. It helps a lot to have a close friend who is in the same position with whom you can share problems and solutions.

All Grangers have this opportunity to make connections with fellow brothers and sisters across the country. It's so easy now with cell phones, texting, Facebook groups, that there is no excuse for being isolated and lacking ideas for activities your Grange can try. Make the effort to cultivate those Grange connections—you’ll be glad you did!

Resource Binder in hands of Grange Leaders; ready to order for your use

By Joe Stefenoni, National Grange Leadership Development and Membership Director

I am so fortunate to have grown up with countless Grange grandparents, aunts and uncles who, along with my parents, who served as my mentors in life and in this organization. These mentors passed to me invaluable institutional knowledge that now serves as my foundation as National Grange Membership Director.

As the years have passed and our mentors have passed to the great Grange above, its necessary for a new generation of mentors to take up the mantle of teaching and instruction.

Over my tenure as Membership Director, I have noticed that important information that I would deem to be that institutional knowledge is not being passed on to new Grange members and new Granges when they are organized/reorganized or as they take their place in our halls as newly installed officers or members. In an effort to address this, work began on identifying, collecting, categorizing and producing a single volume that transmitted over 150 years’ worth of institutional knowledge.

Last month, I was proud to officially release the first version of the “Grange Resource Binder.” The binder is organized into seven sections: Business Information, Grange Meeting Information, Grange Law, Officer Resources, Grange Program Information, State Grange Information and Miscellaneous. These sections contain resources that include how to conduct an annual audit, how to set up a PayPal account for your Grange, handbooks for Subordinate/Community Grange Masters, Secretaries and Treasurers, a guide on how to write a resolution, and how to maintain your Grange’s grange.org website.

Since many of these resources will be used on a regular basis by Granges, each Grange Resource Binder comes with a USB flash drive that is preloaded with resources that Granges can print and use.

At the recent State Grange Presidents conference each State Grange Master/President was given a Grange Resource Binder to take back to their state. A special acknowledgement goes to the Oregon State Grange and the California State Grange. Oregon took the general structure of the Grange Resource Binder and created their own, tailored to their programs, activities and services. Each Grange in Oregon is being visited by a representative of the State Grange and given their own copy of a resource binder. The California State Grange has already given a Grange Resource Binder to their core leadership and all State Grange Deputies.

I would be remiss not to thank the people that made this possible from the general concept formation all the way through editing and revisions. California Past Master Bill and First Lady Lillian Booth, who also previously served as National Junior Grange Director; my mother and General Deputy for California State Grange Martha Stefenoni; Past National Master Ed Luttrell; Priest Archon and Kansas State Grange President Roger and First Lady Melanie Bostwick; National Master Betsy Huber; National Communications and Development Director Amanda Brozana Rios and the National Grange staff.

Grange Resource Binders are available to purchase from the National Grange Supply Store for $30 each, plus shipping. A digital copy can be downloaded free from the National Grange website by going to the “Member Resources” tab and looking under “Membership/Leadership Documents.”

Grange Month poster options and more coming soon

Check your inboxes in the coming week for Grange Month posters, Facebook cover photos, suggested posts and more. These will be emailed separately and available for download on our website.

We Want Your Feedback

Over the past few years, since the launch in 2016 of Patrons Chain, we have changed formats based on the feedback of our members on several occasions. We’d love to hear from you. Please fill out this short survey.

If you receive the Patrons Chain in physical form and wish to provide feedback, fill out the survey attached and send back to National Grange, ATTN: Patrons Chain, 1616 H St. NW, Washington, DC 20006.

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Online Membership Database Training Videos

LOCAL USER VIDEOS

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If you do not know your state or local user login credentials, please contact Stephanie Wilkins at swilkins@nationalgrange.org for assistance.





FEBURARY 14, 2020

HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY! February 14, 2020

Master’s Message: Grangers encouraged to join Trillion Tree Campaign By Betsy Huber, National President

Earlier this week, the Environmental Protection Agency sent out a press release announcing that the United States is joining the Trillion Trees campaign. This is a worldwide collaboration by the World Wildlife Federation, the Wildlife Conservation Society, and Birdlife International to plant 1 trillion trees by 2050, protecting and restoring forests for the benefit of people, wildlife and a stable climate and improving air quality.

At the Celebration Banquet at the 2019 National Grange Convention, we made centerpieces of Norway Spruce seedlings, one for each person to take home and plant in recognition of the convention theme “Essential Roots, United in Growth.” Unfortunately my seedling has not survived. I hope yours did!

If, like me, you were not able to get your tree home alive, I hope you will follow up by planting another tree around your home this spring. Arbor Day is April 24, a perfect day for planting trees and looking forward to a good growing season.

As people dedicated to agriculture, we should participate in the Trillion Trees campaign to better our planet. This makes me think of all kinds of topics for Grange Lecturer’s programs! The simple act of planting a tree can be a great benefit to your property, your community, and even the world. Let’s do our part!

Fly-In 2020 a successful venture in civic education By Amanda Brozana Rios, National Communications & Development Director and Adam Terrell, Member, New Hampshire State Grange

Nearly 30 members from about a dozen states plus Washington, D.C., spent time getting to know the democratic (small d) process a bit better last week as they participated in the 2020 National Grange Legislative Fly-In.

The fourth such event since its founding in 2004, the National Grange with great assistance from New Hampshire State Grange, offers members from around the nation the opportunity to come to New Hampshire prior to the “First in the Nation Primary” on presidential election years.

During the event, participants learned about the history of the New Hampshire primary and heard from Secretary of State Bill Gardner, who is charged by state law with ensuring the state’s primary will always be the first such contest every four years. They then viewed exhibits at a Manchesterbased museum, several of which spoke to the history of presidential politicking in the state. They learned the requirements for someone to make it to the presidential primary ballot in the state and found out that a combined total of about five dozen candidates will appear across both parties’ tickets. That evening, members who represented both major parties and political leanings in the Libertarian field as well, gathered together to watch the Democratic Primary Debate and discuss issues – not parties – as well as the performance of the candidates.

“It was an amazing show of what it means to be engaged in the civic process while still being civil,” National Grange Legislative Director Burton Eller said. “People of all political stripes talked without a mean sentiment in a very Grangerly fashion about the answers candidates gave and the platform of the Trump Administration to offer a balance. It’s pretty incredible in this day in age, but very necessary for the health of our nation to have these type of encounters.”

On Saturday, attendees were greeted at the New Hampshire State Grange headquarters with a homemade pancake breakfast and the welcoming faces of several New Hampshire members including State Master Chris Heath, proud to show off their building and talk about living through the excitement every four years of the primary season.

Attendees departed to visit one or more campaigns of their choice – several going to Trump campaign activities while others split among the Democratic challengers’ offices, most participating as phone bank volunteers or neighborhood canvassers. In the evening, they ate dinner together and compared stories and observations.

On Sunday, before leaving the state, a few attendees stopped by a rally being held by the Pete Buttigieg campaign in Nashua, a way to see one more piece of the political puzzle in New Hampshire. There, attendees also spoke briefly with a Bill Weld supporter. Weld is a Republican candidate and former governor of Massachusetts.

Nathan Strawder said the event was an experience unlike anything he would be able to take part in in his home state of Kansas where the primary is held in early May, long after most of the candidates struggling to get votes in early states have dropped out of the race. See full coverage of the Fly-In in the Spring issue of Good Day! magazine, due in mailboxes in late March.

Service is year-round endeavor By Pete Pompper, National Community Service Director

No matter the season or time of year the community service work Granges do in their communities doesn’t stop. The variety of projects continues to impress me as Granges reach out to help make where they are better.

One program that I know Granges have done for many years is reaching out to our members or individuals who can’t leave their homes this time of year. Cheshire Grange (CT) makes a table favor each month for those individuals. This is important for many reasons, not the least would be the interaction between members especially with those who are homebound.

Calvert Grange (MD) has opened their doors once a week through April to the AARP Tax-aide volunteers to help with free tax preparation. Thank you Calvert Grange for allowing this group to use your hall. Winona Grange (OR) and Montague Grange (NJ) both collect, sort and distribute seed packets for the upcoming gardening season. They are given to members, schools and community gardens --what a great way to share and get ready for spring. There are several Granges that have community gardens on the Grange property.

At the 2019 National Grange convention the Community Service department and the Youth Department named the Youth Community Service award the Wib and June Justi Youth Community Service award. The first recipient of this was Ryan Orton (NY) for his hard work in Stanford Grange community service projects and with the Youth in that Grange. Mandy and I hope to receive more nominations this year from Granges recognizing one of their Youth members. Wib and June Justi worked very hard with the youth in the Grange throughout the country and we could not think of a better couple to name this award after.

I encourage Granges or Grangers with Facebook pages to share what you are doing on the National Grange Community Service Facebook page. This page is a great resource for what Granges are doing from coast to coast. We also share ideas and Granges can ask questions about specific projects. It is also a way to brag about what you are doing.

Download the video here http://bit.ly/2OQ6rpL and use it to start a discussion. Lecturers now have new resource with quarterly newsletter

State Lecturers have joined with National Lecturer Chris Hamp to produce a quarterly newsletter aimed at providing content and suggestions. The first edition of the publication, entitled “A Quarter’s Worth” was released earlier this week, sent by the National Lecturer to State Lecturers who have agreed to distribute it electronically or by mail to Pomona and Subordinate Lecturers in their state.

The simple six-page issue includes several ideas used by successful lecturers in the past as well as pro tips, a resource list and more. If you do not receive an email or physical copy of the newsletter shortly, you can contact your State Lecturer to ensure they have the correct contact information for you and your Grange. In the meantime, you can access a copy of the newsletter online

Help Grange Foundation by staying in

Joan C. Smith, Chair of the Grange Foundation, has found a new way members can easily support the charitable work of the Grange, training and programs for Youth and Juniors and much more under the nonprofit’s umbrella.

Called “Meal a Month Fund,” Smith introduced the concept during the 153rd Annual National Grange Convention. Smith said Americans eat out on average of more than 18 times per month. That means on average we open our wallets to purchase four or more commercially prepared meals. Even if you’re coming in well below the average, Smith said you almost undoubtedly still have a meal at a restaurant in any given month that could easily be replaced with a simple spread at home – peanut butter and jelly, anyone? The money you spend at a restaurant could be donated to the Foundation instead – a true win-win, Smith said because eating out doesn’t lead to tax write-offs like donations to nonprofits do.

Several individuals who heard of the plan have already committed, providing a monthly contribution of varying amounts that they may have otherwise spent - $20 that would have been spent on pizza, $50 for a date night – and have chosen to keep it simple at home instead. One of the people who has donated three times since hearing of the program said the Grange is a huge part of their life and has given them immense gifts, from friendships to leadership and travel opportunities they wouldn’t have had without support of the Foundation. The donor, who preferred to remain anonymous, said the money contributed would have been spent anyway, so it did not strain their budget.

You, too, can be a part of the Meal a Month Fund by simply making a cheap and easy dish at home instead of getting into the car and heading to a restaurant or by packing a lunch instead of going out. Estimate what you’d normally spend and put a check in the mail to Grange Foundation, 1616 H St. NW, Washington, DC 20006. All contributions are tax deductible.

2 big weeks of progress in bridging rural broadband divide

The past two weeks have been full of good news for rural Americans struggling with broadband access as the FCC continued to take large steps forward, removing additional barriers to broadband deployment. These moves come on the heels of two recent announcements of nearly $30 billion in funds committed to closing the digital divide.

On Thursday, Feb. 6, FCC Chairman Ajit Pai provided draft rules that would repurpose unused C-band, the mid-band spectrum most frequently used by various broadcasters and satellite companies. The move would allow for 280 MHz to be allocated for flexible use, including 5G. This proposal came just a day after Pai provided commissioners another recommendation to take unlicensed white space and use it to expand broadband in underserved communities.

“It’s a race to the inbox to see what each new day has in store as Chairman Pai and the FCC continue to take huge steps forward to close the digital divide,” National Grange President Betsy Huber said.

This follows the vote of the Commission to provide $20.4 billion over 10 years and another such on Dec. 4 of $9 billion in funds raised through spectrum auctions that will be made available to enable rural 5G deployment.

Huber, who formerly served on the FCC’s Broadband Deployment Advisory Committee from 2017-19, said many of the new proposals stem from that committee’s work.

“I was proud to be a part of the team that looked at the many barriers to access for rural Americans and others,” Huber said. “The Grange has had equitable access as its single largest focus area for our advocacy work since nearly our founding in 1867. From rural free delivery of mail, rural electrification, water projects, road projects, rural telephone systems and now broadband, we have worked tirelessly to ensure that those living in rural communities are afforded the same benefits of an advancing society as their urban counterparts.”

Huber called the past few years’ work of the FCC under Pai’s leadership “unprecedented” in the seemingly singular focus the agency has put on broadband deployment and speed at which the commission is getting to work on solutions.




FEBRUARY 7, 2020

Master's Message: Impeachment highlights nation's need for informed, engaged citizenship and civility By Betsy Huber, National President

With all the news and attention on impeachment in DC and the nation over the past month, I thought some information about what impeachment is and what it is not would be in order.

Impeachment is the process in which the House of Representatives brings charges against the President (or other official,) similar to indictment by a grand jury. The impeachment hearing in the House or Senate is not a trial. The President is “impeached” when the House finds enough evidence to warrant a trial, which will then occur in the Senate.

The trial, and removal from office if convicted, is separate from the act of impeachment itself. If the President is found guilty by two-thirds majority of the Senate in a trial, the only penalties allowed to be imposed by the Senate are removal from office and disqualification from holding any federal office in the future.

The Constitution limits grounds of impeachment to "Treason, Bribery, or other high Crimes and Misdemeanors". The meaning of the phrase is not defined in the Constitution, but is generally understood as corrupt activity by those who have a special duty due to their position.

Our nation is indeed bitterly divided, just as it was when the Grange was founded in 1867 for the purpose of reuniting the broken United States.

I see today too just how important it is to bring people together for civil conversations and service that improve the lives of our neighbors. These events are what helps strengthen the fabric of our nation while controversy rages that would otherwise tear it apart.

No matter how you feel about the recent impeachment hearing and its outcome, and the coming Presidential election, I hope every Grange member will join with me in committing to move forward as Americans together for the prosperity of our nation.

This weekend about 25 Grangers will be in New Hampshire for the First-in-the-Nation Primary election and will hear directly from a number of candidates who wish to be President. We plan this event to educate our members about how our democratic process works, and possibly give them the chance to meet a candidate or two face to face to make their own choice of who will receive their vote.

I hope you will commit to being an engaged citizen, becoming informed about issues and the platforms of the parties and candidates who will appear on your ballots this election year – from the federal offices to the local ones. Grangers value civic responsibility and take very seriously our duty to participate in government.

Lecturer should be proud, prepared By Chris Hamp, National Lecturer

The position of Lecturer, at every level of our organization, is as dynamic, interesting, educational, inclusive, engaging and fun as you make it. The challenge has been, and will continue to be, not to rest on previous successes or to automatically give up forever on a perceived failure, but to continually adapt to the needs and wants of our members and of our communities. This is why you will continue to see me add, drop and modify the contests, programs and partnerships within the purview of the National Grange Lecturer. For 2020, the National Grange Lecturer contests, programs and partnerships include:


• Quilt Block Contest
• Publicity Item Contest
• Evening of Excellence
• Photography Showcase
• Quilts of Valor
• National Weather Service
• Mercantile

All of the information and forms you need for the 2020 version of each of the above can be found on the National Grange website, https://www.nationalgrange.org, click on Programs and then Lecturer’s Programming.

I have been working on an additional partnership involving civic education, one of the Grange’s greatest skill sets, and hope to have the details and an informational flyer wrapped up in the next month or so. Stay tuned!

Also, I’m thrilled to announce the creation of, “A Quarter’s Worth,” a quarterly newsletter for Grange Lecturers at all levels which should be out the week of February 10. The genesis for this newsletter was a conversation last October between Colleen Foster, Lecturer of the Idaho State Grange and Scott Nicholson, Lecturer of the Montana State Grange on how they could better provide information to the Lecturers in their respective states. This newsletter will be sent out quarterly from the National Lecturer to each State Lecturer who will in turn be responsible to disperse it to each Pomona and community Lecturer within their State Grange. Each edition will also be available on the National Grange website. The intent of “A Quarter’s Worth” is to provide Lecturers with information on National Grange programs and contests, ideas for local programming as well as resource ideas and pro tips aimed at assisting and inspiring. I welcome content from anyone who has a programming idea or a great resource to share.

If you have ideas for, or concerns regarding any of these contests, programs and partnerships please do not hesitate to contact me to share your thoughts. Only if we are all engaged together will we be able to make positive impacts.

Please contact me by Email at lecturer@nationalgrange.org or by phone at 509.953.3533 (voice or text) if you have questions or comments.

Headquarters conference room preparing for facelift, upgrades

Updates to the National Grange Headquarters are underway with a much-needed update to the 1616 H St. NW building’s conference room.

Located on the first floor of the building, the conference room is a major selling point for potential and continuing tenants to rent office space from the National Grange – the proceeds from which allow the organization to continue to hold dues at the National to the low rate of only $14 per year so that anyone of good moral character may join.

The space is provided free-of-charge for tenant use on a first-come first-served basis and is booked nearly every day of the week, including weekends.

It has been many years since it was last updated. Ripped carpet, broken chairs and dated décor are all being moved on to make way for technology investments potential tenants have sought and current tenants are clamoring for.

The small kitchen off the back of the conference room will also be updated with new appliances, cabinets and countertops.

Lighting, electrical, carpeting and more will also be upgraded as part of the project that is set to wrap by March, prior to the arrival of young Grangers participating in the Washington DC Experience of the Grange Youth and Junior Grange Departments.

National Office welcomes accomplished intern

In late January, the National Grange welcomed Heather Simon to the Washington, DC office.

Simon graduated from The University of California Santa Barbara with a degree in International Relations and Economics and later on obtained an ABA approved Paralegal Certification from The University of San Diego with honors.

After graduation from The University of California Santa Barbara, she went to Berlin, Germany to study at a language school for six months and then decided to move to Washington, DC and worked for Emerson Electric Company for three years as a Legislative Assistant, supporting Emerson’s advocacy and grassroots efforts. Simon then returned to California to work for the City of Temecula’s City Manager’s office. During her tenure there, she earned her Paralegal Certification.

Simon’s interest in international relations led her to London where she worked on a one-year student visa and transitioned into the marketing communications industry working for Kantar Millward Brown, a global leader in brand strategy, consulting, advertising development and media effectiveness.

Upon returning to the States, Simon transitioned into the marketing public relations industry where she worked with health and beauty clients for more than 10 years, collaborating with non-profit organizations such as Children With Hair Loss, the American Hair Loss Council and major corporations such as Bosley and Hair Club. Heather’s passion was to return to Washington, DC and re-enter the grassroots advocacy industry. She found no better place to make that return than to the Grange.

Heather has extensive experience as a Senior Marketing Project Manager and specializes in B2B and B2C marketing, servicing companies and nonprofit organizations in various industries supporting sales and operations teams through multi-channel campaigns, direct mail marketing, social media, and trade shows that have led to increases in sales and new business development.

In her personal life, Simon is an accomplished pianist, enjoys being part of the InterNations, a member organization where individuals help support one another through the process of moving to and establishing themselves in a new country and she is a passionate soccer fan and has been involved in supporting the FC Bayern Munich fans advocacy efforts across the USA.

As part of Simon’s role with the Grange staff, she will utilize her prior advocacy grassroots and marketing expertise to assist in organizing events, membership and media relations. She is excited to be back in Washington DC and be a part of The National Grange and its efforts to strengthen individuals, families and communities through grassroots action, service, education, advocacy and agriculture awareness.

Grange calls white space, spectrum proposal by FCC Chairman Pai a vital piece of 'vexing' puzzle for rural broadband expansion

The National Grange applauded a proposal announced Wednesday by FCC Chairman Ajit Pai to use unlicensed white space to deliver broadband service to rural residents. The move is another in a growing list by the Chairman and FCC to bridge the digital divide and ensure all Americans have access to broadband.

National Grange President Betsy Huber said the chairman’s proposal will go far to help make reality the expansion of broadband to rural Americans.

“Funding alone cannot get the job done,” Huber said. “While it takes the billions of dollars in investments to ensure that every American has equal access broadband, additional moves like that to allow unused TV channel bands and other spectrum not in use by other services are also a vital component. This proposal would allow for fixed white space devices that would take signals greater distances and better carry signal through various obstacles, a huge move to reduce two of the most vexing pieces of the broadband expansion puzzle for rural Americans – the varied landscape and distance between consumers.”

Huber, who formerly served on the FCC’s Broadband Deployment Advisory Committee from 2017-19, said broadband for rural communities has been the Grange’s top priority for a decade and a half, and the last two years under the leadership of Chairman Pai, more has been done to close the gap than ever before.

“All of the recent progress, from funding to proposed rule changes and more, to increase rural broadband deployment gets us closer than ever to parity in areas such as education, health services and economic progress. Broadband allows rural residents to use telehealth services, complete courses or assignments in their home, buy, sell and trade in real-time and access secure documents on their own networks and devices rather than shared computers at libraries or other facilities,” Huber said, adding, “These measures all help to increase the quality of life of rural Americans, often engaged in agricultural pursuits or serving our nation’s farmers and ranchers.”

The 152-year-old Grange is not a stranger to advocacy work related to equitable access and wide-ranging projects that require complex and well-organized infrastructure networks, having championed the idea of rural free mail delivery in the late 1800s, rural electrification, water and road projects and rural telephone systems in the early to mid-twentieth century.

Grange to release video on importance of libraries in real communities

Be on the lookout for a simple, 2-minute video that will appear on the National Grange Facebook Page later this month, highlighting the various roles libraries play in their communities, especially in rural America.

The video is part of a series of social posts encouraging the celebration of National Library Month by Granges around the country.

To be one of the first to see the video, make sure to “like” the National Grange Facebook Page and encourage other members of your Grange to do the same. You may also request a link to the video to be emailed to you so you can show it at your local meeting or other events. Contact National Grange Communications Director Amanda Brozana Rios at communications@nationalgrange.org to receive a link.

Grange Foundation seeking proposals for grants up to $1,000

The Grange Foundation, our affiliated 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, annually provides grants to Granges for projects or programs focused on Deaf awareness, programs, and projects that meet the needs of their communities. This year’s deadline is less than three months away, set for May 1, 2020.

Proposals must come through a State Grange, with the exception of those Subordinate Granges who do not have a State Grange in place. In this case, the Subordinate Grange may directly submit their application to the National Grange office to be forwarded to the Foundation for review.

The Grange Foundation board increased the grant amount from $500 to $1,000 over the past few years as a way to encourage more Granges to take on substantial and far-reaching projects in their communities. Up to three awards will be given based on the quality of submissions.

“We are so proud of the work Granges do to help the deaf community and make the world more accessible and to make sure the hearing community is made more aware of Deaf culture and American Sign Language,” Foundation Chairwoman Joan C. Smith said. “We’ve also had wonderful proposals in the past from Granges who completed programs to ensure that people knew how to protect their hearing and were able to do so at things like parades. All of these projects are important and we hope this year we have a competitive field of amazing proposals to choose from.”

All information about the grant program may be found at grangefoundation.org and applications may be sent to info@grangefoundation.org or by mail to Grange Foundation, 1616 H St. NW, 11th Floor, Washington, DC 20006.



January 2020


POLICY UPDATES AND ISSUE NEWS

JANUARY 2020 WRAP-UP

Overview

January has been an extremely slow month for issues and policy actions in Washington. The legislative arena has been overtaken by the Democratic presidential candidates' campaigns and the Trump impeachment process. The presidential candidates are beginning to hone in more now on rural, agriculture, food, environmental, health and broadband issues. The House is essentially reduced to committee oversight hearings for the foreseeable future. The Senate will have no other business than the impeachment process for several weeks. In the meantime the Iowa presidential caucus is the first Monday of February and the New Hampshire "First in the Nation" presidential primary is the second Tuesday of February. The National Grange will take its traditional every-four-years presidential primary fly-in to New Hampshire February 6-9 to participate in the attendees' campaign of choice. In addition to campaigning, Grangers will spend time in the State Capital and be briefed on America's electoral processes from Colonial times to present. They will also get a first-hand look at the massive international press corps set-up it takes to cover a modern day presidential primary.

Presidential Policy and Ag Policy

As the Iowa caucus and the New Hampshire primary get closer, Democratic presidential hopefuls are diving a bit deeper into rural issues and agriculture policy. Most of the leading candidates are promising to address consolidation of agribusiness and use the farm bill conservation programs to curb climate change. Here are some specifics from these candidates:
• Joe Biden - More support for beginning farmers, local food production and public ag research; curb concentration in agribusiness; use conservation payments to farmers for carbon sequestration.
• Pete Buttigieg - Double funding for antitrust enforcement in agriculture; revise patent law to allow producers to replant seeds grown on their own farms; expand agriculture research and conservation programs.
• Amy Klobuchar - Index commodity programs rates to reflect market changes; appoint a special commission to study economic problems in the dairy sector.
• Bernie Sanders - Establish a national grain reserve and other supply management programs; break up agribusiness giants; pay farmers to reduce greenhouse gas emissions; transition agriculture to regenerative, independent family farming practices.
• Elizabeth Warren - Take land out of production to boost commodity prices; raise commodity loan rates; weaken commodity checkoff programs.

Agriculture and Food

Waters of the United States (WOTUS)

The EPA and Corps of Engineers released their final WOTUS rule that farmers, ranchers, landowners, municipalities and others have been waiting for. It replaces an earlier rule that private landowners said was an overreach of Congress' original definition of navigable waters. National Grange president Betsy Huber issued a public statement applauding the action. "The new WOTUS rule replaces a rule that overreached the authority granted by Congress to regulate navigable versus not-so-navigable water on private lands. The revised navigable definition provides four clear categories of waters that are to be federally regulated under the Clean Water Act and details what waters are not subject to federal control. This is good news for farmers, ranchers and landowners."

Meat Marketing Fairness

The USDA is proposing an updated rule that lays out new criteria to determine when contract actions by meat processors and livestock dealers create an unfair business environment for farmers and ranchers by giving undue preference or advantage to one producer over another. The criteria for judging unfair treatment of producers would include, but not be limited to, whether the preference,
• Cannot be justified on the basis of cost savings
• Cannot be justified on the basis of meeting the terms or prices offered by a competitor
• Cannot be justified as a "reasonable business decision that would be customary in the industry" The revised rule goes a long way to satisfy National Grange policy, however conflict may still arise in court over various definitions of "customary" or traditional business practices.

Dairy Merger Faces Antitrust Probe

Dean Foods, the Dallas-based dairy giant, filed for bankruptcy in November. Now, Dairy Farmers of America is in discussions with Dean Foods to buy Dean's assets. In 2018, Dean sold more dairy products ($4.8 billion) than any other processor. DFA estimates it markets a third of all milk in the country. The potential market impact of such a massive consolidation in the dairy industry has caught the eye of federal antitrust regulators who are investigating the deal.

Health Care

Imported Drugs Concern Continues

Back in December, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) issued a notice of proposed rulemaking which would allow states to import drugs from Canada. The problem is that Canada does not review, test or approve drugs transshipped through Canada from a third country. That transshipped drug may be produced in any country under any kind of condition. National Grange policy continues to oppose transshipped imported drugs from Canada because such a drugs may be a fake that doesn't treat the patient's illness, it may not contain incorrect ingredient combinations or levels for effective treatment, or such a drug may actually contain incorrect ingredients harmful to the patient's health.

The Drug Price Conundrum

Getting a handle on the reasons behind escalating drug prices is not easy. Pricing formulas are not straight forward in many cases. According to a new analysis by the Berkley Research Group, nearly half of the total spending brand medicines in 2018 went to the supply chain between the manufacturer and patient. Another study by the Employee Benefit Research Institute shows that cancer medicines cost nearly twice as much in hospital outpatient facilities than in doctors' offices. Drug pricing remains a priority issue for the National Grange.

Telecommunications

BIG funding for Rural Broadband

The recent announcement by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) that the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund has been created and will allocate more than $20 billion for rural broadband expansion is an incredible win for rural communities according to a statement released by National Grange President Betsy Huber. These funds will go a long way toward reaching the "last mile" in rural areas with high speed connectivity. Access to real-time market data, web-based business initiatives, educational resources, telehealth services and more will leap-frog rural America into the main stream of national and international competiveness.

Robocops

The telecommunications industry is making progress toward curtailing those hated robocalls. It has created the Industry Traceback Group which is a collaborative effort of companies from across the wireline, wireless, VolP and cable industries that actively trace and identify the source of illegal robocalls.

Trade

The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) finally law! The Senate passed implementing legislation on a huge bipartisan 89-10 vote in mid-January. The House passed the trade pact just before Christmas 385-41. The President signed USMCA into law in a White House ceremony January 29. In a statement National Grange president said, "This agreement helps solidify trade relationships with our neighbors who buy more made-in-America goods than any other market. Every segment of American agriculture benefits from this agreement."

Perspective

A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty. ~ Winston Churchill

Even the darkest night will end and the sun will rise. ~ Victor Hugo

The essence of optimism is that it takes no account of the present, but it is a source of inspiration, of vitality and hope where others have resigned; it enables a man to hold his head high, to claim the future for himself and not to abandon it to his enemy. ~ Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence. ~ Helen Keller

These days I wonder more and more why people are pessimistic when American history actually supports optimism. ~ Bell Hooks

Feedback and questions are welcome. Call Burton Eller, at (202) 628-3507 ext. 114 or email beller@nationalgrange.org



WE WANT YOUR GRANGE STORIES!!!

Dear Granger

Greetings from the editors of the California Granger’s Newsletter.

We recently put out a post-convention issue in electronic format and will be publishing quarterly in both electronic and print format beginning in mid-February 2020.

While we do not have a maximum word limit for an article, those less than 500 words will have a better chance for publication given the size limitation of the newsletter. Articles may be submitted to the editorial board at any time. Time sensitive articles will have priority for the next publication. Others will be on a space available basis.

If you have any questions or suggestions, please feel free to contact any of the editors. We look forward to working together with you to make this an informative and interesting newsletter.

It’s our hope to make this newsletter something you look forward to receiving and reading And for that to happen, we need your help.

Here are some of the ways:
▪ Submit photographs to CWebster@CAStateGrange.org in digital format with an emphasis on your Grange’s events and activities.
▪ Write a short article about a successful program or activity in your Grange that other Granges could copy.
▪ Write a short article about special folks in your Grange who have made an outstanding achievement that others would be interested in knowing about.
▪ Write a short article about some project or activity that you have done and would like to share with other Grangers. Examples: composting kitchen waste; going solar; gardening tips; building a gray water system; etc.
▪ Write a feature article on a topic which would be interesting to other Grangers. Examples: Dealing with the climate crisis; hardening your property against wild fires; tiny houses; computer, laptop or tablet; raising livestock on a small farm, etc.

We need YOUR Grange in the News!!

Share your Grange story.

Tell your friends -- and the community -- the good things Grangers do.

Fraternally,

Editors, California Granger’s Newsletter
Christina Webster
cwebster@castategrange.org
Buzz Chernoff
toohighranch@gmail.com
530-334-3758
Lanny Cotler
lanny@lcotler.com
707-367-1812
Ellen Taylor
ellenetaylor@yahoo.com
©2020 California State Grange | 3830 U Street, Sacramento, CA 95817

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POLICY UPDATES AND ISSUE NEWS JANUARY 2020 WRAP-UP

Agriculture and Food

Spending Bills Clear Congress

A couple days before heading home for their Christmas break, Congress cleared spending packages to fund the federal government for fiscal 2020. The legislation includes several new appropriations for agriculture:
• An additional $1.5 billion for disaster relief (including quality loss) for farmers and ranchers.
• Reinstatement of the $1-a-gallon biodiesel tax credit.
• Increases staffing to relieve shortages at Farm Service Agency offices.
• Kick-starts new farm bill-authorized programs including dairy business innovation initiatives, healthy fluid milk incentives projects, and micro-grants for food security.
• Boosting rural broadband deployment by providing an additional $550 million for USDA's ReConnect program.
• Hiring an additional 240 agricultural customs inspectors to protect domestic agriculture from importation of foreign diseases and pests.

Health Care

Spending Bills Include Health Care

Significant health care policy changes include several National Grange priorities:
• Repeal of the "Cadillac" tax on high-end employer-funded health insurance
• Repeal of the medical device tax
• Repeal of the individual mandate health insurance tax

Several National Grange priority health care issues were left unsolved including prescription drug pricing and surprise medical bills. These will be back on the table for 2020.

Drug Pricing Bill Passes House

Speaker Pelosi's drug pricing bill, H.R.3, passed the House 230-192 along party lines in December. H.R.3 would require the federal government to negotiate prices for costly drugs. However, H.R.3 may be dead on arrival in the Senate. Early in December Senators Grassley (R-IA) and Wyden (D-OR) introduced their bipartisan Prescription Drug Pricing Reduction Act of 2019. The Grassley-Wyden package takes a more prescriptive approach to drug pricing and appears to enjoy a broader patient support base.

When Rural Hospitals Close Doctors Leave

When local hospitals close, rural and small town residents lose their availability to physicians in the local health care system as well. Not only are surgeons leaving these communities but so are primary care physicians. It appears priority objectives for rural health care policy must include a focus on supporting and maintaining systems that do not depend on hospitals.

Paper Please

National Grange members have always asked for the choice to receive paper copies of notices, invoices, reports, statements and more rather than be forced to go online for these. Yet, the federal government and most large corporations are intent on going paperless, like it or not. Now, Representatives Larson (D-CT) and Buchanan (R-FL), and Senators Wyden (D-OR) and Cassidy (R-LA) have introduced the bipartisan Know Your Social Security Act which would restore the printed statement until such time as the wage earner chooses to transition to online statements.

Telecommunications

Robo Relief

Congress has passed the TRACED Act with the President's support. The Act will require phone companies to implement cell-blocking technology and call authentication technology to determine if scammers are calling. Primary drivers of this National Grange priority on Capitol Hill to stop illegal and unwanted calls were Representatives Pallone (D-NJ) and Walden (R-OR), and Senators Thune (R-SD) and Markey (D-MA).

A $9 Billion 5G Fund for Rural America

National Grange President Betsy Huber issued an early December statement strongly supporting Federal Communications Chairman Pai's plan to deploy high-speed 5G broadband into the rural and small town landscape. Huber lauded it as a huge step forward for rural equity in the social, education, health care, business and many other spheres. "Under his tenure, Chairman Pai has done so much within his area of influence to advance rural communities," according to Huber.

Satellite Programming Endangered

The National Grange has supported the reauthorization of the Satellite Television Community Protection and Promotion Act of 2019 (STELAR) before it expired December 31. Unfortunately Congress allowed STELAR to expire. This leaves 870,000 satellite TV subscribers vulnerable to higher fees and the possibility of losing local and regional programming. It is imperative that Congress address retransmission fees and the negative impact on rural communications access.

Clear the Path for Mixed-Technology Broadband

The National Grange and the Connect Americans Now Coalition are urging the Federal Communications Commission to remove regulatory barriers to TV white space technology. The integration of unused TV white spaces with other broadband technologies will help extend connectivity to the "last mile" in rural areas.

Taxes

A bill has been introduced to update and modernize Section 2032A of the Internal Revenue Code regarding special use valuation on farm and ranch land for estate tax purposes. Representatives Panetta (D-CA) and Walorski (R-IN) are cosponsors of H.R. 5259, The Preserving Family Farms Act of 2019. The bill would allow property to be appraised on the basis of its current agricultural use value as farmland rather than its development value when determining estate taxes. The Panetta-Wolarski bill is supported by the National Grange and a long list of agricultural and landowner organizations.

Trade

USMCA is Nearing Reality

The US-Mexico-Canada Trade Agreement is a major step closer to becoming law. Just before Christmas the House passed the trade pact with 193 Democrats and 192 Republicans voting in favor. Only 38 Democrats, two Republicans and one independent voted against UCMCA. This replacement to the North American Free Trade Agreement is seen as a major economic accomplishment that benefits U.S. agriculture and protects U.S. manufacturing jobs. Support is high in the Senate as well, but the USMCA vote may have to wait until the Senate finishes the impeachment trial for President Trump in January.

"Phase One" China Trade Pact

In mid-December, U.S. and Chinese officials signed off on a partial "Phase One" trade deal that includes a Chinese pledge to buy huge amounts (reportedly $50 billion) of U.S. farm commodities. The U.S. did not levy new tariffs on China December 15 as planned but current tariffs on Chinese products will remain and may be reduced over time as further negotiations progress on a second deal that encompasses intellectual property, technology transfer, currency manipulation and more. The "Phase One" deal is expected (guardedly) to be formally signed in early 2020.

Immigration/AG Workforce

Ag Worker Bill Clears the House

By a vote of 260-165, the House passed the bipartisan Grange-supported Farm Workforce Modernization Act, H.R. 5038 in December. The bill, sponsored by Representatives Lofgren (D-CA) and Newhouse (R-WA), expands H-2A from just a seasonal program into a year-round, three-year visa system. It provides a pathway to legal status for ag workers currently on farms and ranches to continue working in agriculture, requires the use of E-Verify to check the eligibility of new employees, and limits annual wage rate fluctuations. Proponents of the bill say it's the best chance to get relief from the ag worker crisis in the foreseeable future. Opponents say it gives eventual legal status to workers who are already in the U.S. illegally. Chances of passing any ag worker legislation through the Senate in 2020 is unclear.

H-2A Wages Jump 6%

The Labor Department announced ag worker wages under the H-2A program will go up 6% in 2020 to an average of $13.99 depending on the state. The five states of California, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina and Washington account for more than half of the certified H-2A workforce.

Under the Influence

Campaigns against driving under the influence of alcohol and underage drinking raise the awareness of the catastrophic dangers of alcohol abuse behind the wheel. But alcohol now has some stiff competition for the abuse landscape. Studies complied by CNN show the opioid, cocaine and methamphetamine crises are spilling over on to the roads. Marijuana is on the radar now as well. Breakdown of the studies show 8% of drivers said they had a drink before driving at some point during the previous year. Almost 5% of drivers reported driving under the influence of weed (marijuana) and approximately 1% said they had driven under the influence of other drugs. Studies also show marijuana use can seriously alter judgment, perception, ability to think clearly and reaction time.

Perspective

Most people do not pray, they only beg. ~ George Bernard Shaw

Prayer does not change God, but it changes him who prays. ~ Soren Kierkegaard

God warms his hands at a man's heart when he prays. ~ John Masefield

Don't pray when it rains if you don't pray when the sun shines. ~ Satchell Paige

Prayer is exhaling the spirit of man and inhaling the spirit of God. ~ Edwin Keith

In worship, God imparts himself to us. ~ C.S. Lewis

Feedback and questions are welcome. Call Burton Eller, at (202) 628-3507 ext. 114 or email beller@nationalgrange.org





Each year at the Annual Session of the California State Grange, we process resolutions that if adopted, become the policies of the State Grange. The legislative committees will also review the Legislative Handbook and remove old or obsolete polices. If removed it does not mean that it is no longer our policy, as it remains an adopted policy, joining all our policies going back to 1873. The only way a policy no longer applies is by adopting a resolution to remove it.

These policies are incorporated into the Legislative Policy Handbook. They, with the other polices become the basis for our Legislative Lobbing efforts.

It should be noted that these polices are for our State Grange. The National Grange has its own policies, and we can and do have policies that are different or opposed to those of the National Grange.

Download Legislative Handbook for 2020