PA State Grange

National Grange Fly-In

2011-05-25T08:04:00.000-07:00

The PA State Grange was proud to have 9 or our members attend the National Grange Legislative Fly-In Sunday and Monday, May 22 & 23, 2011.

Members included Betsy Huber (Chester Co.), Stacy Bruker (Perry Co.), Ron and Dottie Houtz (Centre Co.), Libby Greene (Northumberland Co.), Corin Fuhrman and Allison Lytle (Lancaster Co.), Dina Zug, (Juniata Co.) and Carl Meiss (York Co.).

The PA State Grange rented a 15 passenger van to drive everyone to D.C. We left from the Farm Show Complex parking lot at 2:00 p.m. Sunday and arrived at National Grange Headquarters around 4:15 where we were greeted by staff members and met other Grangers from around the country who were attending the Fly-In. National Grange President, Ed Luttrell welcomed everyone and then turned the program over to Nicole Payla Wood (Legislative Director) and Grace Boatright (Program Assistant). They explained the process for the next two days (we only stayed through Monday) and handed out information for us to present to our Congressmen and Senators during our meetings. We also got to meet Amanda Brozana, the new Communications Director for National Grange (also a native Pennsylvanian).

Nicole gave us some background on the legislative initiatives that we would be discussing with our U.S. Representatives and Senators. These included asking for support of S. 575 involving Interchange Fees and the Dodd-Frank Act, asking Congress to repeal the Independent Payment Advisory Board (IPAB) as part of the Affordable Care Act, and seeking bipartisan Congressional support and passage of HR 872, the Reducing Regulatory Burdens Act, amending FIFRA and CWA to conclusively declare that, under both laws, no permit is required for the labeled use of any registered pesticide.

Nicole and her staff had scheduled appointments for all Grange members to meet with their respective Congressmen and Senators. Unfortunately, for PA Grangers, we would only be in D.C. Monday so we could not all attend the meeting with Senator Toomey's office Tuesday morning, but our Legislative Liaison, Betsy Huber, met with the Senator's staff on behalf of our PA delegation.

After this briefing at the Headquarters building, we headed across the Potomac to the Applebee's in Alexandria for dinner before proceeding to the Quality Inn for a good night's sleep.

Everyone was up bright and early Monday morning to get breakfast at the hotel before we headed south to Mount Vernon, George Washington's homestead, for a private tour arranged by National Grange. We were met there by the rest of the Grange group, toured the mansion and grounds and participated in a special presentation of a wreath (placed by our own Ed Luttrell) and the Pledge of Allegiance and a reading of Washington's Prayer at the tomb of George and Martha.

Prior to boarding buses, we picked up box lunches and toured the Mount Vernon Gift Shop. We then headed to the Capitol and the various offices of the House and Senate for our individual meetings with staff members.

I met with Marianne Myers from Congressman Platts office at 1:30 and we had a very pleasant and informative meeting. Marianne was very receptive to my requests and promised to pass along my views to the Congressman (Congressman Platts has been invited to speak at numerous Community and Pomona Grange meetings in the York County area throughout the years and has been very supportive of the Grange and our legislative policies).

At 2:30 our entire PA delegation met at Senator Casey's office with three of his staff. We explained our legislative policies and requests as we had done in other offices, but Casey's staff did not appear to me (and to others in our group) to be nearly as receptive to constituents' viewpoints.

There were some other meetings scheduled for 3:30 and then we all met at Union Station to board the van for our trip back to PA at around 4:30. We made one stop on the way out of D.C. at the Grange Headquarters to drop Betsy's suitcase off which resulted in a minor mishap with the van and a vehicle belonging to a Uniformed Secret Service Agent (you'll have to ask Stacy about that for more details since I was inside the Headquarters Building at the time).

We made one stop at the Mountain Gate Restaurant in Thurmont, MD for their buffet dinner on our way home and arrived back at the Farm Show Complex around 9:00 p.m.

Overall, I felt that the National Grange Fly-In was very well planned and successful. Thank you to National Grange President Ed Luttrell and his staff. I wish to thank all of our PA Grangers who attended. I think the two days were informative and educational as well as an opportunity for us to get together and enjoy each other's company.

Thank you to Betsy for making most of the arrangements and to Stacy for thinking to get a rental van when our numbers did not justify a bus as well as driving the home leg of our trip.

Carl Meiss
PA State Grange
President

Huber & Masser Re-elected as Penn State Trustees

2011-05-13T10:43:00.000-07:00

Thursday, May 12, 2011 delegates from county agriculture associations throughout Pennsylvania met at the Penn Stater in State College to elect two Trustees for the Penn State College of Agriculture Board of Trustees.

Betsy Huber & Keith Masser, both incumbents, were unanimously re-elected to three-year terms.

Masser, from Schuylkill County, heads the Sterman Masser Inc. and Keystone Potato Products LLC and serves on the PA Farm Bureau State Board of Directrs. This is Keith's second term as a Trustee.

Huber, from Chester County, is the immediate past Master/President of the PA State Grange and currently serves as their Legislative Liaison. Betsy is beginning her third three-year term as a Trustee.

A total of six trustees, plus the PA Agriculture Secretary (George Greig, a Grange member from Crawford County), represent the interests of agriculture on the 32-member Governing Board of the Penn State University.

Charter Presentation

2011-04-13T17:41:00.000-07:00

Last night, April 12, 2011, was a great night for the Pennsylvania State Grange.

With the help of Deputy Lorena Baughman, I had the opportunity to present my first charter as President of the PA State Grange to members of Hyndman Grange #1954 in Bedford County. What a way to celebrate Grange Month!

Hyndman Grange was officially closed in March 2009 but the building was never sold. During 2010 then President Betsy Huber had contact with long-time Grange member Calvin Cook about opening a new Grange in the building. With Calvin's help in the area, he got the word out to people that we were working to organize a new Grange in the Hyndman area. When we met for our first organizational meeting in November 2010, the people attending were rallying around a local issue...the school district was considering closing the local elementary school which would necessitate busing the children 20+ miles to Bedford. With this issue in mind, those first attendees were able to recruit more people and they had their official organizational meeting on January 11, 2011. It was decided to keep the old Grange name of Hyndman Grange #1954 because the deed for the building and property was still in that name.

Since that time, they have done a total remake of their Grange hall. They have repainted and wallpapered the entire main hall area and totally cleaned up the basement. They were able to get two refrigerators, a stove/oven, a microwave oven and a large coffee maker all DONATED! They already have a number of hall rentals set up and will hold their first event, a Zumba class, this Sunday.

This is a fantastic group of new Grangers on the move!

PA State Grange Planning Meeting

2011-01-31T08:59:00.000-08:00

I am extremely proud of the PA State Grange Officers, Exec. Committee, Committee Directors and Committee Members for their hard work this past weekend during the 2011 PA State Grange Planning meeting in State College.

The Executive Committee met during the day on Friday and then the Officers and Executive Committee members went right to work in the evening and met my challenge to create a Mission Statement for the PA State Grange. Work on this had begun years ago under Past President Betsy Huber and it was completed this week.

PA State Grange Mission Statement: "The PA State Grange supports the local Granges to help members grow as individuals, unify their communities and create opportunity through legislation and service."

The group also set up a tentative schedule for Family Festival (July 14-17, 2011) as well as for State Session (October 15-17, 2011).

The Committees all worked on their respective camps and projects for the year as well as finalizing their contests and programs for the new 2011-2012 Guide to Contests and Programs.

Carl Meiss
President

Mission Statement of the PA State Grange

2011-01-31T08:50:00.000-08:00

The PA State Grange Officers have created a Mission Statement for the PA State Grange:

"The PA State Grange supports the local Granges to help members grow as individuals, unify their communities and create opportunity through legislation and service."

Great Christmas Gift Idea - 2010 PA State Grange Cookbook

2010-11-27T20:54:00.000-08:00

Here is a great Christmas gift idea - a brand new 2010 PA State Grange Cookbook! Over 1,500 recipes from Grange members and friends throughout Pennsylvania covering Appetizers & Snacks, Beverages, Breads, Casseroles, Desserts, Diabetic & Low Calorie, Jams & Jellies, Main Dishes, Pickles, Salads, Soups & Stews, This n' That and Vegetables.

Only $18.00 plus $4.00 shipping and handling.

Buy on line at http://www.pagrange.org/cookbooks.htm

PA Grange Turnout at National Grange Convention

2010-11-10T19:57:00.001-08:00

National Grange Convention Opened Tuesday, November 9, 201 at 2:00 p.m. at the Hilton University in Charlotte, N.C. Newly elected PA State Grange President Carl Meiss and past President Betsy Huber are representing PA Grangers as their delegates.

Tuesday morning began with a tour for the delegates to the Rev. Billy Graham Library, a very interesting and moving experience. Opening was at 2:00 and at 2:30 the National Master Ed Luttrell gave his address followed by his internal report. Committees then began their reports and business was begun on resolutions from all the State Granges.

Wednesday morning began promptly at 8:00 a.m. with a "Salute to Agriculture" breakfast with Johnny Wynne, Dean of NC State College of Agriculture. Session then opened at 10:30 with more work on resolutions. "E-Membership" was approved and should go on line at www.nationalgrange.org very shorty. Luncheon speaker, Kathleen Franco, Executive Director, Public Policy, AT&T was very interesting..."Broadband Access for Rural America". Session re-opened at 2:30 and recessed at 4:30. The Idea Fair & Best of Show was open for touring from 4:30-5:30. Session reconvened at 7:30 with a roll call of states and all Grange members attending being recognized, then we had a fantastic Agriculture Advocate, Amanda Nolz, Contributing Editor, BEEF News, speak, followed by more business on resolutions. Session closed at 9:30.

The Youth have a Get-Acquainted Party scheduled at 9:30 p.m. Wednesday night followed by Youth Officer Practice.

Thursday Session will open at 8:30 a.m. with committee reports and work on resolutions continuing. The Youth tour to the Graham Library begins at 9:00 along with the Idea Fair and Best of Show. There will be a special service for the veterans in the morning and a memorial service for Grange members in the afternoon.

More to come...

PA State Grange Elects New Slate of Officers

2010-10-20T07:12:00.000-07:00

West Middlesex, PA - On Monday, October 18, 2010, PA State Grange delegates attending the 138th Annual PA State Grange Session, elected a new slate of officers for 2010-2012.

Carl Meiss was elected as the President of the PA State Grange for a two year term. Carl is a member of Valley Grange #1360 and York/Adams Pomona Grange #40 in York County. He has served the PA State Grange as its Public Relations and Membership Director as well as Editor of their newspaper, The Advocate, for the past 8 years. Carl is a retired police lieutenant from the Lower Allen Township Police Department, Cumberland County, where he served 27 years. He lives in Newberry Township, York County with his wife Judy.

Other officers elected were:

Vice President: Richard Mangel, Butler County
Program Director: Lorena Baughman, Blair County
Steward: Leonard Heim, Lehigh County
Assistant Steward: Derek Schroeder, Berks County
Lady Assistant Steward: Miranda Irons, Warren County
Chaplain: Jennifer Nauss, York County
Treasurer: Henry Seidel, Berks County
Secretary: Sandra Witmer, Lancaster County
Greeter: Andrew Kieffer, Berks County
Ceres: Marjorie Brown, Tioga County
Pomona: Ashley Bird, Centre County
Flora: Jodi Keith, Huntingdon County
Executive Committee: Nettie Kauffman, Berks County

The 138th Annual PA State Grange Session saw 218 delegates from Community and Pomona Granges and 215 guests attend. The delegates represent the nearly 260 Community Granges and 50 Pomona (County) Granges throughout the Commonwealth.

The Grange is a family, fraternal organization dedicated to the betterment of the American way of life through community service, education, legislation and fellowship. It is the oldest agricultural and rural advocacy organization in the United States. The Grange was originally formed nationally in 1867 and was chartered in Pennsylvania in 1873.

138th Annual PA State Grange Session in West Middlesex

2010-10-07T06:10:00.000-07:00

Lemoyne - The PA State Grange will be holding its 138th annual State Session at the Radisson Hotel, 3377 New Castle Road, West Middlesex, PA from Friday, October 15, 2010 through Monday, October 18, 2010. Butler, Crawford, Lawrence, Mercer and Venango will be this year's hosting counties.

Friday's activities will be limited to committee meetings, set up of contests and displays and rehearsals for Saturday's Opening.

The Official Opening of the 138th Annual Session is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. in the ballroom of the hotel. PA State Grange President Betsy Huber will then introduce the National Grange President Ed Luttrell and his wife Celia from Washington State, as honored guests.

Following President Luttrell's welcome, the PA State Grange will begin its business meeting. The annual State Session is attended by delegates from the nearly 260 local, Community Granges from throughout the Commonwealth. Much of the Grange business will entail discussion and voting upon 57 different resolutions proposed by members of the Community Granges. The resolutions enacted at the annual session determine the legislative policies of the PA State Grange for the coming year.

Saturday afternoon will see the Conferral of the Sixth Degree of the Grange with suggestions for officers before the meeting is closed for the day by the Youth Officers. One of the highlights of the entire weekend will be held Saturday evening...the annual Talent Contests, for both adults and Juniors (ages 5-14), followed by a Youth Party.

Sunday morning will begin with a Worship Service held at a local church followed by exhibits and workshops. The Public Speaking and Sign-A-Song contests will be held at 1:30 and the day will end with the annual "All Granger Banquet" where numerous awards will be given out.

Monday will continue the business of the Grange and discussions on resolutions with election of all of the PA State Grange officers just before lunch. The announcement of the newly elected officers will be followed by installation of officers at 1:30, following any other business.

The PA State Grange is proud to welcome AT&T, Karasik & Carrio and Gunn Mowery as sponsors of various portions of this year's State Session.

First Ever Pomona Grange Summit

2010-09-27T07:02:00.000-07:00

The PA State Grange in conjunction with London Grange #1492 in Mercer County, hosted the first ever National Grange Pomona Grange Summit this past weekend, September 24-26. We had 41 attendees from Maine, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Hampshire, New York, Ohio and Pennsylvania plus Ed and Celia Luttrell (National Grange President and First Lady) from Oregon and Rusty Hunt (National Grange Membership/Leadership Director) from the state of Washington.

The entire Summit was held at London Grange #1492 and their members provided lunch and supper for everyone on Saturday. Workshops began at 6:00 p.m. Friday evening and were completed by 9:00 p.m. Saturday evening, followed by an ice cream social at a nearby restaurant.

The Summit included a review of "Chapter 7, Code of the Pomona Grange" of the "National Digest of Laws," followed by workshops on "Purpose of Pomona," "Pomona Survey Analysis," "Communication," "The Legislative Body of the Order," and "Strengthen and Aid the Community Grange."

Workshops were presented by Rusty Hunt, Ed Luttrell, Charlene Shupp-Espenshade (National Grange Youth/Junior Director) and Chris Szkutak (National Grange Youth Mentor).

The entire Summit was a huge success and all attendees took a lot of information back to their home State, Pomona and Community Granges.

Final 2010 PA State Grange Family Picnic

2010-08-30T05:42:00.000-07:00

The third and final 2010 PA State Grange Family Picnic was held Sunday, August 29, 2010 at the Williams Grove Historical Steam Engine Association Show at Williams Grove Park in Mechanicsburg, Cumberland County, PA. More than 25 Grange members from the south central area of Pennsylvania attended for good food, games and fellowship.

The festivities began shortly after Noon with a Blessing, followed with lots of great "covered dish" food. After the meal, Lizzie Bailey and Cindi Shaffer from Cumberland Valley Grange #2105 brought games and prizes along for both young and old.

The steam Engine Association provided a pavilion at no cost to the Grange in the hopes of making this an annual affair, similar to the Great Granger Picnics held at the park in the late 1800's.

2010 Ag Progress Days

2010-08-23T09:14:00.000-07:00

Well the 2010 Ag Progress Days was a huge success for the PA State Grange! In three days we gave out over 1,000 "koozie" foam can coolers and 500+ balsa wood gliders! And with every can cooler, a Membership brochure was inside. So we know that we "got the Grange Word" out to many, many people in a very short time period.

Thanks very much to Lorena Baughman, Mike and Jennifer Adams and Sherri and Jenna Sattazahn who helped us out in the booth. Also thanks to the Centre County Corps who helped Melanie and Merle with the Family Activity quilt raffles and cookbook sales.

We are looking forward to seeing a lot of PA Grangers at this coming Sunday's PA State Grange Family Picnic at the Williams Grove Steam Engine Show. Picnic begins at noon. Bring a covered dish to share, your own place settings and something to drink.

Madison Grange #2107 Receives National Charter

2010-08-09T07:27:00.000-07:00

PA State Grange President Betsy Huber presented the National Charter to Bob Stair, newly elected President of the new Madison Grange #2107 in Columbia County, PA. They held their meeting at the edge of the woods above Bob's mother's farmhouse. They normally meet the second Sunday of the month at 2:00 p.m. in the Phillips' barn at 10 Phillips Road, Bloomsburg, PA.

President: Bob Stair
Program Director: Ruby Crane
Secretary: Diane Crane
Treasurer: Jewel Sullivan

Madison Grange #2107 organized June 13, 2010 with 13 charter members.

They have already begun a flower bulb fund raiser. Their next meeting will be held at Lake Tobias Wildlife Park on Sunday, September 12, 2010. They are planning to begin a Small Game Hunter Breakfast that they will serve on the morning of opening day of small game season in Pennsylvania.

For more information about Madison Grange #2107, contact Bob Stair at 570-204-0944.

August Grange Events

2010-08-02T10:30:00.001-07:00

August is a fun month for the PA State Grange. We have three major events this month, two Family Picnics and Ag Progress Days.

The first PA State Grange Family Picnic for August will be held Sunday, August 15, 2010 at Knoebels Amusement Park, 391 Knoebels Blvd., Elysburg, PA 17824. The picnic begins at noon in Pavillion "T". This is a covered dish picnic so bring plenty of food to share with fellow Grangers. Knoebels Park is a "pay as you ride" park, so you can tour the park for free or ride all the rides you want and pay as you go.

Next on the calendar will be Ag Progress Days. Ag Progress Days (APD), is Pennsylvania's largest outdoor agricultural exposition and is always held during three days in August (17, 18 & 19th this year). Sponsored by Penn State's College of Agricultural Sciences, the event is held at the Russell E. Larson Agricultural Research Center at Rock Springs, nine miles southwest of State College on Pa. Route 45. As usual, the PA State Grange will have an informational booth set up in the front of the Ag Choice Building at Main & W. 6th Street on the grounds. Stop in and see us and tell us you saw this on our blog and receive a free gift!

The second PA State Grange Family Picnic of August will be held on Sunday the 29th at the Williams Grove Steam Show, outside Mechanicsburg, PA. This picnic will also begin at noon and will be a covered dish affair. As you can see in the picture from last month's Family Picnic at Conneaut Lake Park, Grangers always eat well! We hope to see Grangers from far and wide at the picnic!

So don't miss the chance to stop in at one of the events this month.

2010-2011 PA State Grange Young Couple Named

2010-07-20T07:24:00.000-07:00

The 7th annual PA State Grange Family Festival held at the Centre County Grange Fairgrounds July 15-18 was the setting for the announcement of the new 2010-2011 PA State Grange Young Couple. Saturday evening, Barb and Derek Schroeder from Hamburg, Berks County were named the new 2010-2011 PA State Grange Young Couple.

Derek works for the Kutztown Area School District and is a member of Virginville Grange #1832. Barb is working to be a stay-at-home mom, awaiting their son, Jacob's birth in mid-August. She is a member of the Hamburg Grange #2103.

The Schroeders will work hand-in-hand with the PA State Grange Junior Princess and Prince, Jenna Sattazahn and Daniel Pratt, as well as the Youth Ambassadors, Jennifer Adams and Patrick Wadsworth, to promote the Grange and its many programs throughout the Commonwealth. They will attend events such as Ag Progress Days, PA State Grange Session, PA Farm Show and next year's National Grange Convention, in addition to many local, community Granges and fairs throughout the state.

2010-2011 PA State Grange Junior Princess and Prince Named

2010-07-12T07:48:00.000-07:00

The new 2010-2011 PA State Grange Junior Princess and Prince are Jenna Satttazahn and Daniel Pratt.

They were named at the Junior Grange Camp Coronation on Friday, July 9, 2010 held at Camp Sylvan Hills, Howard, PA.

Jenna is from Womelsdorf and will be in the 9th grade at Conrad Weiser Middle School. She is a member of Marion Junior Grange #344 in Berks County.

Daniel is from Polk in Venango County where he will be going into the 10th grade at Franklin Area High School. Daniel is a member of the PA State Junior Grange.

Jenna and Daniel competed against six other campers for the positions of Junior Princess and Prince. The competition consists of a written Grange Knowledge test, an Impromptu Question before the entire camp and other judging throughout the camp week.

2010-2011 PA State Grange Youth Ambassadors Named

2010-07-03T21:21:00.000-07:00

Jennifer Adams and Patrick Wadsworth have been named the 2010-2011 PA State Grange Youth Ambassadors.

Jennifer is a member of Hamburg Grange #2103 in Berks County and Patrick is a member of Goshen Grange #121 in Chester County.

They were chosen through a judged competition with other Youth at this weekend's Youth Retreat held at Camp Sylvan Hills, Howard, Centre County, PA.

PA State Grange July Events

2010-07-02T19:46:00.000-07:00

Today was the beginning of many July events for the PA State Grange.

Our Youth Retreat started today at Camp Sylvan Hills outside Howard, PA. The Retreat goes through Sunday with our new Youth Ambassadors being named Saturday night.

Then, Sunday is the start of our Junior Grange Camp which will also be held at Camp Sylvan Hills. Some of our Youth will stay on as counselors for Junior Camp. Thursday morning will be the group photo taken at Bald Eagle State Park. Then Friday night, the new Junior Prince and Princess will be named in a special coronation ceremony. Camp ends on Saturday, the 10th.

Then, the following week, our annual PA State Grange Family Festival runs from Thursday, July 15 thru Sunday the 18th and will be held at the Centre County Grange Fairgrounds in Centre Hall, PA. This is always a special long-weekend for Grangers and their friends.

The PA State Grange Young Adult/Young Marrieds weekend will be held in conjunction with the Family Festival. The new Young Couple will be named Saturday night during the Festival.

This year we will have a special guest...Pete Pompper, National Grange Lecturer and Master of the New Jersey State Grange, will join us for the Festival. If you haven't registered yet, do so immediately. The registration form is available on the web site at http://www.pagrange.org. We hope to see you there!

PA State Grange Awards More Than $10,000 in Scholarships

2010-06-24T11:57:00.000-07:00

Lemoyne - The PA State Grange has announced their 2010 scholarship winners.

Brett Sattazahn, a member of Marion Grange #1853 in Berks County, is the recipient of this year's $1504 Grange Scholarship Endowment at the Pennsylvania State University and a $500 Leonard Rhone Scholarship. Brett, of Womelsdorf, is the son of Kevin and Sherri Sattazahn. He is a 2009 graduate of Conrad Weiser High School and is entering his sophomore year at Penn State where he is majoring in Environmental Resource Management with a minor in Soils Option in the College of Agriculture.

Jennifer Nauss of Mechanicsburg, Cumberland County, received the Leonard Rhone Scholarship of $500, the $500 PA State Grange Foundation Scholarship as well as a $1000 Santee Student Loan. She is the daughter of Brad and Anna May Nauss and is a member of Valley Grange #1360 in York County and the Penn State Grange #2105 in Centre County. Jennifer is a 2007 graduate of Mechanicsburg Area High School and is entering her senior year at Penn State where she is majoring in Communication Sciences and Disorders with a minor in Human Development and Family Studies Special Education.

Philip Vonada from Spring Mills received a $500 PA State Grange Foundation Scholarship as well as a $500 Santee Student Loan. Philip is the son of Dale and Ruth Vonada of Spring Mills, Centre County and is a member of Penns Valley Grange #158. He is majoring in Speech Communication (Theatre) with a minor in English at Millersville University where he will be a junior in the fall.

Receiving $1000 Santee Student loans were Hannah Pratt and Andrew Nauss.

Hannah, daughter of Michael and Janet Pratt from Polk, Venango County, recently graduated from Franklin Area High School. She will be a freshman at Messiah College where she plans to major in Christian Ministries with a minor in Music. Hannah is a member of Wesley Grange #1675 in Venango County.

Andrew is from Mechanicsburg, Cumberland County and is the son of Brad and Anna May Nauss. He just graduated from Mechanicsburg Area High School and will be majoring in Pre-Physical Therapy at the University of Pittsburgh in the fall. Andrew is a member of Valley Grange #1360 in York County.

Receiving $500 Santee Student loans were James Hawn, Tyler Peffer, Carl Rudy, Jennifer Rudy, Heather Smith, Tyler Snyder and Brandi Turner.

James Hawn is the son of William and Lisa Hawn of Petersburg, Huntingdon County. He is a member of Baileyville Grange #1991 in Centre County and is attending Penn State for a 2-year certification program in Agricultural Equipment Technician. He graduated from Juniata Valley High School in 2009.

Tyler Peffer is the son of Barry and Anita Peffer from Volant, Lawrence County. He is a member of Plain Grove Grange #1431 and graduated from Wilmington Area High School in 2009. Tyler is entering his sophomore year at California University of PA where he is majoring in Graphic Design with a minor in Marketing.

Carl Rudy is from Halifax, Dauphin County. His parents are Frederick and Linda Rudy. He graduated from Halifax Area High School in 2007 and is attending Penn State, Harrisburg where he is majoring in Mechanical Engineering Technology. Carl is a member of Community Grange #2048 in Dauphin County.

Jennifer Rudy is also from Halifax, Dauphin County and is the daughter of Frederick and Linda Rudy. She graduated from Halifax Area High School in 2006 and is attending Harrisburg Area Community College where she is majoring in Elementary Education with a minor in Special Education. Jennifer is a member of Community Grange #2048 in Dauphin County.

Heather Smith is the daughter of Carol Smith and hails from Galeton, Potter County. She is a 2004 graduate of Galeton Area High School and is majoring in History with a minor in Women's Studies at Mansfield University. Heather is a member of Carter Camp Grange #1563 in Potter County.

Tyler Snyder just graduated from Boiling Springs High School. He is the son of James and Sue Snyder of Boiling Springs, Cumberland County. Tyler will be beginning his freshman year in the fall at Temple University where he plans to major in Sports Management with a minor in Business. Tyler is a member of Valley Grange #1360 in York County.

Brandi Turner lives in Morrisdale, Clearfield County, with her parents Darrell and Janet Turner. She recently graduated from West Branch High School and will be attending Lock Haven University, Clearfield Campus in the fall where she plans to major in Healthcare. Brandi is a member of Center Hill Grange #885 in Clearfield County.

The Grange Foundation Scholarship was established by delegate action in 1996. Candidates must be Fourth Degree Grange members who seek higher education in any field at any institution of higher learning.

The Leonard Rhone Scholarship Fund was initiated in memory of Leonard Rhone, third Master of the PA State Grange. It is available to Grange members pursuing a four-year degree in Agriculture or Human Development and Family Services at Penn State University.

The Grange Scholarship Endowment at the Pennsylvania State University provides recognition to outstanding undergraduate students enrolled in at least their sophomore year at any College or campus of the Pennsylvania State University.

The Santee Student Loan fund was established by the late Ellis M. Santee, a country doctor from Shickshinny and an active Grange member. This loan is interest-free and is available to Grange members and their children.

The Grange is the oldest family fraternal, agricultural and rural advocacy organization of its kind in the country. The Grange is dedicated to the betterment of rural America through community service, education, legislation and fellowship.

Susquehanna Community Grange #2106 Receives National Charter

2010-06-22T06:14:00.001-07:00

Curwensville - The Monday, June 21, 2010 meeting of the newly formed Susquehanna Community Grange #2106 was time for celebration!

PA State Grange President and Chairman of the Executive Committee of the National Grange, Betsy Huber, presented the National Charter to Peggy Redden, President of the Susquehanna Community Grange #2106. Also present for the presentation were Carl Meiss, PA State Grange Membership/Public Relations Director and Lorena Baughman, PA State Grange Deputy from Blair County. Baughman assisted Meiss in the opening of the new Grange on April 13, 2010.

The new Grange already has big plans. This Sunday, June 27, 2010, they are holding a spaghetti dinner fundraiser at the Curwensville Community Center. Funds raised from that dinner will be used to assist a Grange family from Cambria County in financial distress due to medical problems.

On August 28 & 29, Susquehanna Community Grange #2106 is planning to sponsor a Gun and Outdoor show and sale at the Community Center. For additional information or to reserve a vendor space, call 814-236-0886.

2010 PA Grange Royalty Tour

2010-06-16T07:36:00.000-07:00

Tuesday, June 15, 2010 was the annual PA State Grange Royalty Tour. This year's Royalty is: Junior Prince and Princess, Zech Houser (Centre County) and Jennifer Reed (Susquehanna County); Youth Ambassadors Jennifer Nauss (Cumberland County) and Michael Snyder (Cumberland County), and; Young Couple, Dustin and Julie Kunkle (Berks County).

The tour began with a light breakfast at the PA State Grange Headquarters in Lemoyne. They proceeded to the Governor's Mansion for a tour before heading to the capitol in Harrisburg where they were first introduced on the floor of the House of Representatives. They then lunched in the capitol cafeteria and headed to the Senate chambers where they were introduced by their individual Senators. While waiting for a tour of the capitol to begin, Sen. Mike Brubaker, Chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee, took the group onto the floor of the Senate for pictures. After a tour of the capitol, the Royalty spent the rest of the day at HersheyPark.

[Photo of Royalty along with Junior Director, Karen Mohn and Youth Director Martha Ebersole with Sen. Mike Brubaker]

PA State Grange Opens Second New Grange in 2 Months

2010-06-14T08:04:00.000-07:00

On April 13, 2010, Susquehanna Community Grange #2106 was organized in Clearfield County, PA. On June 13, 2010, Madison Grange #2107 was organized in Columbia County, PA!

The organizational meeting for the newly formed Madison Grange #2107 was held at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, June 13, 2010 in the Phillips' barn at 10 Phillips Road, Bloomsburg, PA 17815. 13 people signed the charter application as Charter Members and were "Welcomed" into the Grange by Carl Meiss, PA State Grange Membership/Public Relations Director, after opening the Bible and saying the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag.

The charter members first order of business was to vote on a name for their new Grange and they chose "Madison Grange" because they are located in Madison Township in Columbia County. The "# 2107" is the number assigned to the new Grange by the PA State Grange office (Granges are numbered consecutively as they are chartered), so this is the 2107th Grange to have been chartered in Pennsylvania since Eagle Grange #1 was organized in 1871. Today there are still approximately 260 Community Granges in the Commonwealth.

The following officers were elected: Robert Stair, Master/President; Ruby Crane, Lecturer/Program Director; Diane Crane, Secretary, and; Jewel Sullivan, Treasurer. Madison Grange #2107 will meet the 2nd Sunday of each month at 2:00 p.m. in the Phillips' barn at 10 Phillips Rd., Bloomsburg, PA 17815. The remaining 9 officers will be elected at their July meeting.

Madison Grange #2107 joins four other Community Granges located in Columbia County: Light Street Grange #31; Valley Grange #52; Briar Creek Grange #146, and; Roaring Creek Valley Grange #2041.

[Photo of 13 Charter Members of Madison Grange #2107]

Gov. Signs "Pie Bill"

2010-06-03T13:35:00.001-07:00

Governor Ed Rendell signed S.B. 828, the "Pie Bill" his afternoon.

Grange Work

2010-05-27T12:03:00.000-07:00

PA and MD State Granges worked together on Wednesday, May 26, 2010 to "Grow the Grange" in both states.

PA State Grange Membership Director Carl Meiss and State Deputy Lorena Baughman met with an individual at the Hyndman #1954 Grange hall south of Hyndman, Bedford County to discuss re-organizing the Hyndman Grange. Carl provided this individual with brochures and flyers promoting the Grange and expects a call within a week or two to go back out to host a re-organization meeting.

Later in the afternoon, Meiss and Baughman headed south into Maryland and scouted the area of Flintstone, MD and the surrounding countryside. An individual from Flintstone had contacted the National Grange office about the possibility of doing something to get a community center in the Flintstone area.

At 4:00 p.m. Meiss and Baughman met with Nancy Wolfe (MD State Grange co-membership director) and Alton Hoopengardner, Master of nearby Hancock Grange, along with the interested individual and his wife at the LaVale Library. Meiss explained the history of the Grange and what the Grange is today and what it can do for a community. After numerous questions and answers, the individuals left the 2 hour meeting with as much Grange information as they could carry and comprehend, with the intention of going back to the Flintstone area to recruit others in their quest.

There is a very high probability that both Maryland and Pennsylvania could "Grow the Grange" in these areas in the near future.

New York State Grange Offering First Five Degrees

2010-05-18T08:19:00.000-07:00

The New York State Grange is offering the First Five Degrees on Saturday, May 22, 2010 at Bath Grange Hall, Bath, N.Y. This is open to any Grangers from New York or Pennsylvania. (See above attached JPG of the notice).

The Truth about PA DOT Farm Equipment Regulations

2010-05-10T07:49:00.001-07:00

If you want the absolute truth on the newly revised Farm Equipment Regulations of the PA DOT Highway Safety Regulations, check out this video of Sgt. Robert Krol, Pennsylvania State Police and Motor Carrier Safety Regulations Manager Kevin Stewart, as they explain the federally mandated changes to Grange members on Tuesday, May 4, 2010.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-TBczoYWIGo

Grange Pie Day

2010-05-05T11:47:00.000-07:00

Yesterday's PA State Grange Legislative Day and "Pie Day" at the Pennsylvania Capitol was a huge success. The day begin with about 55 Grange members from across the Commonwealth at the Radisson with Pennsylvania State Police Sgt. Robert Krol and Motor Carrier Safety Regulations Manager Kevin Stewart explaining the federally mandated changes to PA DOT Highway Regulations as they pertain to agricultural equipment. John Barley from Versant Strategies then updated the attendees on some of the legislative items of importance. After lunch, the members boarded a bus for the capitol in Harrisburg where they took pies, cookies and other "home-baked" items to their legislators to promote SB828 which was introduced by Sen. Vogel and would allow non-profit and fraternal organizations to sell "home-baked" items, not made in a "certified" kitchen, to be sold in conjunction with fundraisers. Grange members had the opportunity to stop in at their Senator and Representative's offices to introduce themselves and the Grange as well as ask for their support on SB828. A press conference was held in the capitol rotunda (see video @ http://www.youtube.com/user/carlmeiss#p/a/u/0/5WaYioo-Z-E). SB 828 had already passed the Senate and passed in the House yesterday by a 189-0 vote with amendments.
It was a very successful day for Grange members.
(photo of Grange members assembled on the capitol rotunda steps after the press conference)

2010 May/June Advocate

2010-05-03T13:42:00.000-07:00

The 2010 May/June issue of The Advocate (The Grange Advocate for Rural Pennsylvania) is on line at www.pagrange.org/Advocate_May_june_2010.pdf

PA State Grange Legislative Day 2010

2010-04-21T07:41:00.000-07:00

Grange Legislative Day 2010

May 4, 2010 is the date for the upcoming PA State Grange Legislative Day. Events will kick off at 10:30 a.m. at the Radisson Penn Harris in Camp Hill, PA.

John Barley from Versant Strategies, the Grange's lobbying group, will speak to the attendees first about legislative updates. Mr. Barley will also give the Grangers tips on talking to their legislators about issues.

Sgt. Robert Krol from the Pennsylvania State Police will then give a presentation to update everyone on the new PADOT trucking regulations as they affect agriculture.

A Proclamation from Governor Ed Rendell proclaiming April as Grange Month in the Commonwealth will be presented to PA State Grange President Betsy Huber as well as House Resolution 699 which also proclaimed April as Grange Month in Pennsylvania, sponsored by Rep. Sue Helm of Dauphin County.

After lunch, a bus will then be awaiting the attendees to transport them to the Capitol for a tour and an opportunity for the Grangers to stop in at their respective legislators' offices to talk to them about some of the major legislative policy issues of the PA State Grange as well as their local Granges. The four most prominent PA State Grange legislative issues for 2010 are: Tolling of Interstate Route 80 (opposed); Dairy Pricing (reform needed to help farmers make a profit); Marcellus Shale, and; Continued Funding for the PA Department of Agriculture.

After meeting with their legislators, Senator Elder Vogel (R-47) will address attendees in the capitol rotunda on Senate Bill No. 828, a bill he has introduced which would exempt non-profit and volunteer organizations (such as the Grange) from strict food safety standards for selling home-baked goods, providing they are not potentially hazardous foods such as foods that contain ingredients that support a rapid growth of microorganisms AND that consumers are informed that such food has been prepared in a private home which is not licensed or inspected by PDA.

Pennsylvania Has Another New Grange!

2010-04-14T07:28:00.000-07:00

Tuesday evening, April 13, 2010 saw 16 charter members sign the charter application for the newly formed Susquehanna Community Grange #2106 in Curwensville, Clearfield County. They took their name partly from a previous Grange, "Susquehanna Grange #1145" that had been located in Curwensville for 100 years but closed in 1996.

Their first order of business was to vote on a name for the new Grange. Next, they elected four new officers as follows:

Peggy Redden from Curwensville was elected as their first Master/President.

Christine "Tina" Kephart, also from Curwensville was elected to the office of Lecturer/Program Director.

Brandi Lynn from Clearfield was elected as their new Secretary and Eva Jean Komonczi from Curwensville was elected as Treasurer.

The Susquehanna Community Grange #2106 will meet the 1st and 3rd Mondays of the month at 7:00 p.m. at the Curwensville Community Center, 11 Stadium Drive, Curwensville, PA 16833. They are already planning an auction in the near future for their first fundraiser. The public is invited to attend any of their meetings.

GRANGE YOUTH OPPORTUNITY

2010-04-12T12:40:00.000-07:00

Rededication of the National Grange Building in Washington, DC

Have you ever wanted to be part of an historic event where you will have the opportunity to help Grange members from throughout this Country? Don’t you want to be one of the select few to wear and own a Building Ambassador shirt? Would you like the opportunity to work side by side with a National Grange Officer or member of the Assembly of Demeter?
Well...do we have a deal for you. On June 26th the National Grange will be rededicating your building at 1616 H St. NW in Washington, DC. And we need your help as Building Ambassadors. When the building was first dedicated in June, 1960 the Youth from all over the country acted as Tour Guides. We want to now give you this chance because we believe you, the Youth Grangers of today, will do a great job.
It will give you not only the opportunity to interact with other Youth but also with Grange members from all across the country. You will be working alongside National Grange Officers and members of the Assembly of Demeter as we welcome our guests. You will be working with members of the National Grange Staff explaining the importance of the various rooms and offices within the building. As a Building Ambassador you will get a unique perspective of the National Grange building very few members will ever get.
This will be a very unique and once-in-a lifetime chance to be part of the history of the Grange. All that you do will be recorded for future generations of Grangers to read about. If you would like to be part of the Building Ambassador team, please contact Charlene Shupp-Espenshade, National Youth Director at Youth@nationalgrange.org for rooming/meal and tour package costs or Pete Pompper, National Grange Lecturer at njsgprez@aol.com if you have any questions about the tours or rededication ceremony.

2010 Scholarship Applications Due May 1

2010-04-06T07:52:00.000-07:00

May 1st is the general deadline for scholarship and grant applications through the PA State Grange.
Both the Scholarship Brochure and the Application forms can be downloaded from the website at www.pagrange.org or obtained by writing to the PA State Grange, 20 Erford Rd., Suite 216, Lemoyne, PA 17043 or calling at 800-552-3865.
The various funds include the PA State Grange Scholarship, Deaf Interpreter Scholarship, Leonard Rhone Scholarship Fund, and the Santee Student Loan Fund.
The PA Grange Foundation Scholarship was established by delegate action in 1996. Candidates must be Fourth Degree Grange members in good standing for at least one year prior to applying. They must seek higher education in any field at any institution of higher learning and be in need of financial assistance. Eligible applicants shall be entering their junior or senior year in college and may not receive the scholarship more than twice. The scholarship is a grant of $500 or $1000 with no repayment required. More than one grant may be awarded per year.
The Deaf Interpreter Scholarship is a $250 grant which shall be awarded to a student enrolled in a credible program leading to certification as a qualified interpreter for the deaf.
The Leonard Rhone Scholarship Fund was initiated in memory of Leonard Rhone, third Master of the Pennsylvania State Grange. Awarded once each year, it is a $300 grant. To be eligible, a student must pursue a four-year study in agriculture or home economics (a.k.a. Human Development and Family Services) at Penn State University. The student recipient must be a Grange member in good standing and be endorsed by the Master of his or her Subordinate Grange and Pomona Grange.
The Santee Student Loan Fund was established by the late Ellis M. Santee, a country doctor from Shickshinny and an active Grange member. This loan consists of a $500 or $1000 per year loan, interest free, to Grange members or their children. All loans are given on the basis of a written "repayment" promise. All loans must be repaid within three years of graduation or leaving school. Students receiving this loan can reapply each year they are enrolled as a full-time student, with a maximum of four loans to any one individual.
For all of these listed scholarships and loans, the deadline to apply is May 1. The Santee Loan Fund can also be applied for the spring term and that deadline is September 1.
An additional Scholarship is through The Grange Scholarship Endowment at the Pennsylvania State University. This fund shall provide recognition to outstanding undergraduate students enrolled in at least their sophomore year at any College or campus of the Pennsylvania State University who have demonstrated need for funds to meet their necessary college expenses. The Endowment provides for an annual scholarship of at least $1750. This is available to Grange members in good standing who are enrolled in at least their sophomore year, who have achieved superior academic records, and who have demonstrated financial need. Nominations shall be solicited from the PA State Grange Scholarship Committee which is the sole method of identifying students who are Grange members.
So get your applications in soon. The May 1 deadline is rapidly approaching! Don't miss out on this great opportunity!

National & State Grange Presidents' Media Tour

2010-03-24T11:29:00.000-07:00

National Grange President to Visit Three Pennsylvania Granges to Address National and Local Issues
Pennsylvania State Grange President to Speak on Regional Issues

WHEN & WHERE:
• Monday, March 29, 2010 @ 4:00 p.m.
Kutztown Grange #1836
Kemp & James Alley, Kutztown, PA
• Tuesday, March 30, 2010 @ 4:00 p.m.
Eagle Grange #1
Rt. 15 & E. Blind Rd., Montgomery, PA
• Wednesday, March 31, 2010 @ 4:00 p.m.
Mt. Nebo Grange #1872
125 McAleer Rd., Sewickly, PA

WHAT:
• The National Grange recently commended the FCC for providing broadband coverage to rural areas.
• National Grange President Ed Luttrell will address three main issues facing the National Grange today:
Teamwork
Grange Growth and Communications
Grange Name Protection
• PA State Grange President Betsy Huber will speak on three regional issues:
Kutztown Grange #1836: Dairy Farmers
Eagle Grange #1: Opposition to Tolling Interstate 80
Mt. Nebo Grange #1872: Marcellus Shale
• The National Grange, founded in 1867 to help Civil War ravaged farmers recover, has today evolved to being our nation’s leading rural advocacy organization, a major benefactor to local communities and, in many instances, the local social center.
• The National Grange has over 200,000 members in 2,700 communities spread over 40 states and supports farmers, ranchers, teachers, law enforcement officials, local business people and other rural leaders. The PA State Grange has over 10,000 members in 270 Community Granges throughout the Commonwealth.
• While the National and PA State Grange still supports agricultural issues, they also focus on policy issues that aim to improve education, healthcare, rural infrastructure, environmental conservation, food safety, rural safety, and equal telecommunications access. .

INTERVIEW AND PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES:
Ed Luttrell, National Grange President
Betsy Huber, PA State Grange President
Members of PA Granges will be on hand to participate in interviews.

ECM Summit

2010-02-16T07:58:00.001-08:00

NOTICE: The ECM Summit originally scheduled for February 5-6, 2010 at Harmony Grange, Delaware has been re-scheduled to March 12-13, 2010. Agenda remains the same. Please let everyone know of the change and invite anyone interested. Cost is $20.00. For info, call the State Grange Office @ 1-800-552-3865.

Passing of Helen Paden Scott, wife of John Scott

2010-01-29T20:37:00.000-08:00

Helen Paden Scott, wife of John Scott, past National and PA State Grange Master, passed away late Thursday night.

Visitation will be Sunday, January 31, 2010 from 2-4 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. at the Marshall Funeral Home, 341 Main St, Wampum, PA 16157. Funeral service will be at the funeral home Monday, February 1, 2010 at 10:00 a.m.

Condolences may be sent to John Scott, 5213 Terrace Road, Mechanicsburg, PA 17050.

"Well done good and faithful servant..."

PA State Grange at 2010 PA Farm Show

2010-01-06T12:09:00.000-08:00

Come visit the PA State Grange booth at this year's 94th annual PA Farm Show, January 9-16, 2010 at the Farm Show Complex, N. Cameron & Maclay Streets, Harrisburg, PA. The show runs daily from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. except for the final Saturday, the 16th when it ends at 5:00 p.m.

The PA State Grange booth will be located in the Main Hall (just off Maclay Street) along the north wall. (If you walk in the Maclay Street entrance, go past the butter sculpture all the way to the first wall and turn right, we will be on your left along the wall). Stop by and say you saw our blog and receive a special "gift" from the Grange.

The PA Farm Show complex is the largest indoor complex of its kind in North America with about 25 acres indoors, nearly 6,000 animal entries, 10,000 competitive exhibits and 270 commercial exhibitors, offering more than $560,000 in prize money. This year, the PA Department of Agriculture is predicting that between 400,000 and 500,000 people will visit the show during the eight days! Admission is FREE (parking is $10/car)

The Grange is a family fraternal organization dedicated to the betterment of rural living through community service, education, legislation, and fellowship. It is the oldest agricultural and rural advocacy organization in the country.

Comments on Proposed Rulemaking - Outdoor Wood-Fired Boilers

2009-12-30T07:17:00.000-08:00

New regulations coming! Please express your comments to the EQB as listed below.

PA State Grange

Wednesday, December 30, 2009

Letter to Citizens of Pennsylvania from Hawken Energy

Dear Pennsylvania Citizens,

You are about to have a new regulation in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania that is going to cost each of you a large sum of money - at least $800 each immediately, and then several thousands of dollars each year in the future. Will you be able to vote on this? NO.

Will you be able to even vote an elected representative out of office for passing this new regulation? NO.

This new regulation is being proposed by the Environmental Quality Board of Pennsylvania. And we cannot do anything to stop them, except let our voices be heard. More on that later.

This "Board" has decided to attempt to regulate how citizens of PA use wood as a fuel. If you currently use wood to heat your home with an outdoor wood furnace, the Board wants to regulate you. We find this mystifying because of the following reasons:

1. Wood is a renewable fuel that has been safely used since the beginning of recorded history.
2. Wood does not harm the environment. Fossil fuels DO harm the environment. Wood does not add greenhouse gasses to the environment - Fossil fuels DO.
3. The proposed regulation was prepared using grossly flawed data.
4. This regulation will damage the economy of Pennsylvania by killing jobs, and by increasing the heating cost of many homeowners by over 400 percent.
5. The Commonwealth consists primarily of heavily-wooded, rural areas. It makes no sense to burden the citizens of our entire Commonwealth with a rule that really only applies to densely populated areas that constitute a tiny portion of the Commonwealth.

Here is what the proposed regulation will require:

1. If you do not yet have an outdoor wood furnace but want to purchase one, you will have to purchase one of the "EPA Approved" furnaces that were developed for use in densely populated cities - even if you live in the country or on a 100-acre farm!

2. These "EPA Approved" furnaces cost approximately 400 percent more per BTU of output than traditional outdoor wood furnaces. Because of this high cost, very few people are purchasing these "EPA Approved" furnaces - one company that sold them has even gone bankrupt.

3. If you currently own an outdoor furnace, but it gets old and needs to be replaced, you will be required to pay 400 percent more for the higher cost, "EPA Approved" furnace.

4. If you currently own a furnace, you will automatically and retroactively be forced to spend roughly $800 to install a chimney stack extension that extends your furnace chimney to a height 10 feet above the ground. If another home is within 500 feet of your furnace, the regulation retroactively requires you to extend your chimney even higher.

I have prepared a 9-page letter to the Board to outline for them why such regulation is a bad idea. I have attached this letter to my company blog for you to read if you are interested. The link to the letter is as follows: http://blog.hawkenenergy.com/2009/12/letter-to-environmental-quality-board.html.

The bottom line is that we believe that any needed regulation should be left to local municipalities. Accordingly, we recommend that the Board NOT adopt the proposed, or any regulation of OWBs. Such regulations can be easily managed by local municipalities of densely populated areas.

But I doubt they will listen to just me. Here is where we need to work together. If you agree that PA citizens should have the freedom to choose to burn wood, you can help to preserve our freedom by doing two simple things:

1. Send a quick email to the Board, and
2. Forward this email to any and all friends who would be interested in this issue and would also like to have their voice heard by sending an email to the Board.

For your email to the Board, please follow these simple steps:

1. Copy the "Sample Letter to Board" below into a new email.
2. Make any changes or additions you wish to make. (Alternatively, you can just write your own letter - I only provide the Sample Letter below to simplify this for you.)
3. Put in the Subject Line the following: "Comments on Proposed Rulemaking - Outdoor Wood-Fired Boilers".
4. Make sure to add your name and address so the Board knows you are a PA constituent.
5. Send the email to the following email address: RegComments@state.pa.us

6. If you do not receive an acknowledgement of electronic comments within 2 working days, please resend your email to ensure the Board receives the email.
7. Alternatively, you can mail your comments to the following address: Environmental Quality Board, PO Box 8477, Harrisburg, PA 17105-8477.
8. YOUR EMAIL OR LETTER MUST BE RECEIVED BY JANUARY 4, 2010!!
9. The Board will not accept faxed letters. Send it by email or mail only.

A sample of a letter you could send to the board is attached below. If you have any questions on this matter, please do not hesitate to contact me - you can reach me at Warren@HawkenEnergy.com.

And don't forget to forward this email to your friends!

Thanks, and warm regards,

Warren W. Walborn
President & CEO

---Sample Letter to Board---

TO:
Environmental Quality Board
PO Box 8477
Harrisburg, PA 17105-8477

FROM:
(your name)
(your address)
(your city, state, zip)

Re: Proposed Rulemaking [25 PA. Code CHS. 121 and 123] Outdoor Wood-Fired Boilers

Dear Board:

Please do NOT proceed with your proposed rulemaking regarding outdoor wood-fired boilers. I believe this would be unacceptable for our Commonwealth for the following reasons:

1. Wood is a renewable fuel that has been safely used since the beginning of recorded history.
2. Wood does not harm the environment. Fossil fuels DO harm the environment. Wood does not add greenhouse gasses to the environment - Fossil fuels DO.
3. The proposed regulation was prepared using grossly flawed data.
4. This regulation will damage the economy of Pennsylvania by killing jobs, and by increasing the heating cost of many homeowners by over 400 percent.
5. The Commonwealth consists primarily of heavily-wooded, rural areas. It makes no sense to burden the citizens of our entire Commonwealth with a rule that really only applies to densely populated areas that constitute a tiny portion of the Commonwealth. We believe that any needed regulation should be left to local municipalities. Accordingly, we recommend that the Board NOT adopt the proposed, or any regulation of OWBs. Such regulations can be easily managed by local municipalities of densely populated areas.

Thank you.

PA State Grange New Year's Holiday Office Hours

2009-12-29T05:58:00.000-08:00

The PA State Grange office will only be open Tuesday, December 29 and Wednesday, December 30, 2009 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. this week, due to the holiday. The office will re-open Monday, January 4, 2010 at 8 a.m.

The PA State Grange wishes everyone a very safe and Happy New Year!

MERRY CHRISTMAS

2009-12-23T15:11:00.000-08:00

Here's wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas!

The PA State Grange office is now officially closed and will re-open at 7:30 a.m. Tuesday, December 29, 2009.

PA State Grange Public Relations Director Receives National Award

2009-11-18T07:06:00.000-08:00

Grand Rapids-National Grange President Ed Luttrell and Chairman of the Board Betsy Huber, hosted the first ever "Heroes of the Grange" awards luncheon Tuesday at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Carl Meiss, PA State Grange Public Relations Director, was one of the eight honorees. Carl was honored as a "Hero of the Grange" for his public relations work at the PA State Grange, with particular emphasis on social networking. Carl has, in addition to keeping the PA Grange web site (www.pagrange.org) up-to-date, started a PA State Grange Facebook site, the PA State Grange blog (pagrange.blogspot.com), and has three different Twitter sites (PAStateGrange, CarlMeiss [his public relations site] and his personal site bikelt).
Congratulations to Carl!

Russellville Grange #91

2009-11-05T11:47:00.001-08:00

PA State Grange Membership/Public Relations Director Carl Meiss will present his PowerPoint program "Why Join the Grange?" at 7:30 p.m. tonight, November 5, 2009 at Russellville Grange #91, RT 896 & Old Limestone Rd., Russellville, Oxford, PA. The program emphasizes the various personal benefits available to PA Grange members and stresses their use as a membership recruitment tool.

The public is welcome to stop by for this interesting and educational program.

Russellville Grange #91 meets every 1st & 3rd Thursday of the month at 7:30 p.m. in their Grange hall located at Rt 896 & OLd Limestone Rd., Russellville, Oxford, PA.

Contact President Stanley Reyburn, (610) 572-7289 or Program Director Sarah Coburn, 610-932-5829 for additional information.

PA State Grange Back On-Line!

2009-11-03T07:50:00.001-08:00

Effective Tuesday, November 3, 2009 at about 10:30 a.m. the PA State Grange WEB site and email are back on line. We experienced a problem with our web host that has now been resolved.

If you sent any emails to any of the email addresses at the PA State Grange office during the above times, please re-send them to insure that we receive everything.

We apologize for any inconvenience and thank everyone for their cooperation.

Fraternally,
Carl Meiss
Public Relations Director
PA State Grange

WEB site and email off line

2009-11-02T08:12:00.001-08:00

The PA State Grange WEB site (http://www.pagrange.org) and all emails went off line around noon on Saturday, October 31, 2009. We are working to get everything back on line ASAP. If you sent us an email over the weekend, please re-send it tomorrow, Tuesday, November 3, 2010 so you are sure we received it. We apologize for any inconvenience. This was a result of a problem with our web host, which we are in the process of changing.

If you need to get information to us immediately, please call us at 1-800-552-3865.

Thank you for your understanding. We hope to have everything totally back to normal by the end of the business day today, Monday, November 2, 1009.

Press Release - PA State Grange Names Granger/Grange Family of the Year

2009-10-21T12:23:00.000-07:00

PA STATE GRANGE

Press Release

Date: October 21, 2009

Contact: Carl Meiss

Public Relations Director

publicrelations@pagragne.org

Release: Immediate

RE: PA State Grange Names Granger and Grange Family of the Year

Johnstown, PA - At the 137th Annual PA State Grange Session All Granger Banquet held Saturday in Johnstown, PA, the "Granger of the Year" and the "Grange Family of the Year" were both named by PA State Grange President Betsy Huber.

Each year, the PA State Grange names individual Grange members and/or Grange families who have exemplified themselves with their Community, Pomona (County) or State Grange through Grange actions and activities, as well as through non-Grange activities.

This year's "Granger of the Year" is Margaret Storm of Patton, PA. Margaret has been a member of Pleasant Hill Grange #1861 in Cambria County for 25 years, where she has served as their Master (President) for the past 18 years. "She does many community service projects in her Grange and throughout her community," President Huber said. "She gets applicants for their Grange scholarships, more than anyone else. Her number one project is the 'Military Mail Project.' She has influenced the lives of two generations of 4-H members as a leader in cooking and babysitting classes. She works for the American Legion Auxiliary and sends many cards to shut-ins in her community. She's the instigator of the educational display at the Cambria County Fair. She is truly a great credit to the Grange and the community and she uses her talents well for the benefit of others in the area."

The Anstadt Family from Lycoming County was named as the "Grange Family of the Year." All 13 members of the Anstadt family belong to Allegheny Grange #1843 in Lycoming County. Elizabeth Anstadt has been their Secretary for 25 years. Paul Burkhart, President of Allegheny Grange stated, "The Anstadts can trace their family history back to the founding fathers of Allegheny Grange; the land on which the Grange stands was donated by the Anstadt family." PA State Grange President Betsy Huber said, "All of the family members have been active in many community organizations and church activities, to include the local senior center, Meals on Wheels, 4-H, County Health Improvement Coalition, County Extension Board, and the Grange, at all levels including State and National." "They all assist their Grange with their annual ATV Educational Expo as well as their annual Festival/Health Fair," Huber said. Elizabeth Anstadt stated, "I would hope that through our examples of service in the Grange community, we can set an example of community service toward other people and organizations." The family includes Elizabeth, George, Jeanne, Lewis and Marilyn Anstadt; Elizabeth, Bernie, Susan, Keith, Cameron and Ashley Downey; and Heather and Ernie Orton.

Press Release - PA State Grange Concludes 137th Annual Session

2009-10-21T08:17:00.000-07:00

PA STATE GRANGE

Press Release

Date: October 21, 2010

Contact: Carl Meiss

Public relations Director

publicrelations@pagrange.org

Release: Immediate

RE: PA State Grange Concludes 137th Annual Session

JOHNSTOWN. PA - The PA State Grange concluded its 137th Annual Session on Monday, October 19, 2009. The Conference was held at the Frank J. Pasquerilla Conference Center in Johnstown, PA. and was hosted by Community Granges from Bedford, Blair, Cambria, Clearfield, Indiana and Somerset Counties.

A total of 212 delegates were registered, representing 77 Community and 40 Pomona Granges from around the Commonwealth. The delegates dealt with 60 resolutions to set the organizational and legislative policy of the PA State Grange for the coming year. Resolutions were introduced which dealt with agricultural, environmental, family, governmental and organizational issues.

Session was officially opened Saturday morning at 10:00 a.m. by PA State Grange President Betsy Huber. Special guests included Joe and Tammy Fryman from Nebraska. Joe, the National Grange Treasurer, along with his wife Tammy, were the National Grange Representatives. Pennsylvania Acting Secretary of Agriculture Russell Redding spoke to the delegates telling them, "We need you," in the afternoon. Session was closed for the day by the PA State Grange Youth. The "All Granger Banquet" was held Saturday evening and saw the announcement of the "Granger of the Year," Margaret Storm from Cambria County and the "Grange Family of the Year," the Anstadt Family from Lycoming County. The evening closed with a PA State Grange Youth Party.

No Session "business" was conducted Sunday but that didn't mean a day of rest. PA State Grange Chaplain Judy Pressler led a church and memorial service held at the Johnstown First United Methodist Church. After church, the PA Junior Grange held their meeting and degree work in the morning while Community and Pomona Grange Masters (Presidents) participated in a workshop on "Conducting Efficient and Fun Meetings." The PA State Grange Youth held their annual luncheon and honored PA State Grange Public Relations/Membership Director Carl Meiss, with their "Friend of the Youth" award.

The afternoon saw the Sign-A-Song, Public Speaking and Talent contests held for members of all ages. This year's winners of "Best in Show" were Ashley Mohn from Berks County for Junior Talent and Jenny Taylor from Butler County in the Adult Talent contest. The PA State Grange conferrfal of the 6th Degree (State Level) was held Sunday evening with 28 members receiving the 6th Degree. The Degree conferral was held in the conference center and was immediately followed by a reception.

The Family Activity Committee hosted their annual Breakfast first thing Monday morning and presented awards for Pomona Chairperson of the Year to Virginia Mangel of Butler County and Community Chairperson of the Year to Caroline Reilly of Blair County. Session opened at 8:30 a.m. and delegates immediately got down to work on the remaining resolutions. Election of one member to the Executive Committee was held and Barbara Gross from Venango County was re-elected and installed. Session was officially closed at 4:00 p.m. with an invitation to the 138th Annual PA State Grange Session to be held in Sharon, PA, Mercer County.

Following the close of Session, PA State Grange President Betsy Huber and Chaplain Judy Pressler took the PA State Grange floral Memorial Cross across Napolean Avenue and placed it at the Cambrian County Veteran's Memorial. [Photo attached]

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20 Erford Road

Suite 216

Lemoyne, PA 17043

800-552-3865

www.pagrange.org

Day 3 137th Annual PA State Grange Session

2009-10-20T19:03:00.000-07:00

Day 3, the final day of this year's 137th Annual PA State Grange Session, held in Johnston, PA saw the completion of the remaining resolutions (60+ total).

After two votes, Barbara Gross from Venango County was re-elected to the PA State Grange Executive Committee and installed by Susan Tau of Crawford County.

The Host Committee of "Grange in the Valley" was thanked and the new Host Committee for the 138th Session in 2010 invited everyone to Sharon, PA in Mercer County.

Following the completion of the Session, PA State Grange President Betsy Huber and Chaplain Judy Pressler took the Memorial floral Cross across the street and placed it under the Veterans' Memorial in Johnstown.

Day 2 - 137th Annual PA Statge Grange Session

2009-10-18T19:53:00.000-07:00

PA State Grange P.R. Director Carl Meiss was awarded the "Friend of the Youth" award at the Youth luncheon.

Ashley Mohn won "Best of Show" in the Junior Grange Talent Contest.

Jenny Taylor won "Best of Show" in the PA State Grange Talent Contest.

137th Annual PA State Grange Session

2009-10-08T06:35:00.000-07:00

PRESS RELEASE

PA STATE GRANGE

Date: October 7, 2009

Contact: Carl Meiss

Public Relations Director

Release: Immediate

RE: Johnstown to Host 137th Annual PA State Grange Session

Johnstown, PA - The 137th Annual PA State Grange Session will be held October 17-19, 2009 at the Frank J. Pasquerilla Conference Center, 301 Napoleon Street, Johnstown, PA.

The Host Counties include Bedford, Blair, Cambria, Clearfield, Indiana and Somerset. Community Grange members from the six counties have been working nearly a year to plan for this year's convention dubbed "Grange in the Valley."

PA State Grange Master/President Betsy Huber of Chester County will conduct the Official Opening of the 137th Annual Session, which will take place in Ballrooms A & B of the Pasquerilla Center at 10:00 a.m. Saturday morning, October 17. This year's representatives from the National Grange will be Joe (photo above) and Tammy Fryman from Nebraska. Joe is the National Grange Treasurer as well as the Nebraska Grange Master/President. Tammy is the immediate past National Grange Flora.

All 270 Community Granges in the Commonwealth in good standing as of the third quarter are eligible to send at least two delegates to the Annual Session. (The number of delegates is dependent on the total number of members in a local Grange). Delegates set the legislative policies of the State Grange for the following year by voting on "Resolutions" previously submitted by local Community Grange members to the State Grange office. This year there were 59 resolutions submitted by the September 14, 2009 deadline. The resolutions are categorized as follows: Agriculture & Environmental; Family Issues; Government Issues, and; Good of the Order.

Saturday's Session will be officially closed at 4:15 p.m. by the PA State Grange Youth Officer Team. The annual All Granger Banquet will be held from 6:00 - 9:00 p.m. in the conference center and will be emceed this year by Chester Tau of Crawford County, PA State Grange Overseer/Vice-President. The PA State Grange Youth and Juniors will hold their own parties in the evening at the Holiday Inn, the host hotel.

After the church service Sunday morning, the PA State Juniors will hold their annual meeting and degree, followed by a Master's Workshop prior to lunch. The PA State Grange Youth luncheon will be held in the hotel at 11:00 a.m. At 1:00 p.m. the Public Speaking, Sign-A-Song and Talent competitions will be held in the conference center ballrooms. Sunday evening will see the Sixth Degree Conferral of the PA State Grange held at 6:30 followed by a 9:00 reception.

Monday will wrap up the official business of the Grange after a 7:00 a.m. Family Activities breakfast. Session will begin at 8:30 a.m. and will conclude with the installation of a newly elected Executive Committee Officer, Recognition of the 137th Host Committee and an invitation to the 138th Annual Session in Sharon, PA.

The Grange is a family fraternal organization dedicated to the betterment of rural life through community service, education, legislation and fellowship. The Grange is the oldest agricultural and rural advocacy organization in the country, founded nationally in 1867 and in Pennsylvania in 1873. The Grange includes the entire family through its Junior, Youth and Community Granges.

PA Youth Represented at 2009 National Grange Convention

2009-09-30T05:45:00.000-07:00

Two PA State Grange Youth have been selected as 2009 National Grange Youth Officers for the upcoming National Grange Convention in Grand Rapids, Michigan in November.

Jennifer Nauss, 20, from Valley Grange #1360 in York County and Penn State Grange #2105 in Centre County was chosen as Musician and Andrew Kieffer, 24, from Marion Grange #1853, Berks County, was selected to be the Steward. Andrew served as Assistant Steward while Jennifer served as the Musician on the 2008 National Grange Youth Officer Team at the National Convention in Connecticut.

The selection of the 2009 National Grange Youth Officer Team was completed September 28, 2009 by a panel of judges from across the country selected by the National Grange Youth Director Charlene Shupp-Espenshade.

Dongeal Grange #1927, Westmoreland County

2009-09-21T07:02:00.000-07:00

State Grange Master Betsy Huber and Membership Director Carl Meiss will be heading to Donegal Grange #1927, September 22, 2009 for a re-organizational meeting @ 7:00 p.m. at the Grange hall, 333 Church St., Donegal. Anyone interested is invited to attend. Light refreshments will be served.

Grange Growth Summit

2009-09-10T12:01:00.000-07:00

PA Grangers will be attending the Grange Growth Summit presented by National Grange in Wytheville, Virginia Friday through Sunday, September 11-13, 2009. Betsy Huber, Carl Meiss, Marty Dinsmore, Lorena Baughman and Charlene Espenshade will be spending the weekend in Virginia learning about Opening New Granges and Re-organizing Granges.

Donegal Grange #1927, Westmoreland County

2009-08-27T10:25:00.000-07:00

Betsy & Carl spent Tuesday evening and most of the day Wednesday in Donegal, Westmoreland County working to re-organize the Donegal Grange #1927. 7 members attended the meeting at the Grange hall Tuesday evening and agreed to work to recruit more people to attend the upcoming September 22, 2009 meeting @ 7:00 p.m. at the Grange hall, 333 Church St., Donegal to officially re-organize.

Wednesday morning Betsy & Carl went to the Westmoreland County courthouse in Greensburg to get the Donegal Grange hall property off the Sheriff Sale list.

Most of the day Wednesday was spent stopping by local businesses and speaking to owners, community leaders and concerned Donegal area residents notifying them of the re-organization meeting. Carl will follow up with ads in local print newspapers including the Chamber of Commerce newsletter in an attempt to notify more people about the Grange in the Borough of Donegal and Donegal Township.

The re-organization meeting on Tuesday evening, September 22, 2009 is open to anyone interested. Any Grange members are invited to attend to assist Donegal in any way possible. Snacks and light refreshments will be served after the 7:00 p.m. meeting.

The Advocate for Rural Pennsylvania

2009-08-24T08:17:00.000-07:00

In a continuing effort to cut costs at the PA State Grange Office, the Executive Committee has decided to reduce the number of issues of "The Advocate" from 10 to 6, with bi-monthly issues beginning with the September/October, 2009 issue.

PA Grangers can help cut costs further by notifying the State Office that you consent to receiving email notices when "The Advocate" goes on-line in lieu of receiving a paper copy in the mail. You can then read it with Adobe Reader on the PA State Grange WEB site at http://www.pagrange.org. Simply send your email address to advocate@pagrange.org with "Email Advocate" in the subject line.

Ag Progress Days

2009-08-13T07:54:00.000-07:00

Stop by at the PA State Grange booth at Ag Progress Days Tuesday, August 18 (9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.), Wednesday, August 19 (9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.), and Thursday, August 20, (9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.) in Rock Springs, PA (outside State College). We will be in the Ag Choice Building on Main Street at W. 6th Street. Mention that you read about it on our Blog and receive a FREE gift! Hope to see you there!

Carl Meiss
PA State Grange
Public Relations Director

PA State Grange Office Is Open

2009-08-10T12:22:00.000-07:00

The PA State Grange Office has completed the move from Suite 310 to Suite 216. Phones are operating and computers are on line.

PA State Grange
20 Erford Road
Suite 216
Lemoyne, PA 17043
1-800-552-3865
717-737-8855
fax: 717-737-8858

Upcoming PA State Grange Events

2009-08-05T12:04:00.000-07:00

Upcoming PA State Grange events:

Sept 14: Resolution Deadline

Sept 30: Pre-Session Conference, Radisson, Camp Hill

Oct 17-19: 137th Annual PA State Grange Session, Johnstown, PA

PA Grange Family Picnic @Delgrosso Park

2009-07-30T07:23:00.000-07:00

More than 35 Grangers converged on DelGrosso Park (formerly Bland's Park) in Blair County on July 26th for a family picnic. As usual, Grangers brought more than enough food to share and if anyone went away hungry it was their own fault. Everyone had an opportunity to meet new Grange friends and talk to old ones all afternoon or to tour the park and take in some of the rides. A typical Grange Good Time!

PA Grange Young Marrieds Name Young Couple of the Year

2009-07-22T10:23:00.000-07:00

Press Release

PA STATE GRANGE

Date: July 22, 2009

Contact: Carl Meiss

Public Relations Dir.

publicrelations@pagrange.org

Release: Immediate

RE: PA State Grange Young Couple of the Year Named

Centre Hall--Julie and Dustin Kunkle from Berks County have been named the 2009-2010 PA State Grange Young Couple of the Year.

The Young Marrieds/Young Couples of the PA State Grange held their annual weekend in conjunction with this year's 6th Annual PA State Grange Family Festival held at the Centre County Grange Fairgrounds JUly 16-19.

Dustin and Julie Kunkle take over from Christie and Joel Straub from Mercer County who have served as the Young Couple for the past two years.

The Kunkles are from Tilden Township where they live with their 18 month-old son Connor Lee. They have been married for 10 years and both are Lifetime Grange members from Shartlesville Grange #1512. Julie has been a Granger for 13 years and Dustin since he was 6 years old. Dustin works at Kantner's Tire Service in Shoemakersville and Juile is a stay-at-home mom and student. Julie enjoys reading and needle point and Dustin is a true Pittsburgh Steelers, Penguins and Pirates fan who enjoys part-time farming with his parents and sister as well as Grange activities. Dustin is a past Master (Pres.), past Assistant Steward and presently serves as Overseer (V.P.) of Shartlesville Grange #1512 as well as PA State Grange Deputy for Berks County, while Julie is a past Lady Assistant Steward at Shartlesville Grange #1512. Both are graduates of Hamburg Area High School.

Couples competing for the honor of "Young Couple" must have been Grange members for a minimum of two years and neither partner may have reached their 35th birthday. Contestants are judged on an interview, ambassadorship qualities and a written test of Grange knowledge. The selected Young Couple helps to promote and generate enthusiasm for the PA State Grange Youth Department programs and contests. The Young Couple will also serve on the State Grange Youth Committee for one year during their reign.

PA Junior Grange Royalty Named

2009-07-06T17:05:00.000-07:00

PA State Grange

Press Release

Date: July 6, 2009

Contact: Carl Meiss

Public Relations Director

publicrelations@pagrange.org

Release: Immediate

RE: PA State Junior Grange Names Royalty

HOWARD, PA - The highlight of the annual PA State Junior Grange Camp is its Friday evening coronation of the new Junior Grange Princess and Prince.

For 2009-2010, the PA State Junior Grange Princess is Jennifer Reed and the Prince is Zech Houser.

Jennifer is the daughter of Jeff and Karen Reed and hails from Susquehanna County where she goes to Montrose Area Junior/Senior High School. Her school activities include soccer and concert band. She is a member of the PA State Junior Grange #1 and helps with activities at the Fairdale Grange #1157 outside of Montrose.

Zech's parents are Ronald and Janet Houser of Centre County. He attends Bellefonte Area High School where he is involved in the CPI program (which is anything to do with computers), as well as band and marching band. Zech belongs to Logan Junior Grange #182 in Pleasant Gap and has held numerous offices within the Junior Grange.

Runners-up this year were Lindsay Schroeder from Virginville Junior Grange #436 in Berks County and Daniel Pratt from PA State Junior Grange #1, who hails from Venango County.

The PA State Junior Grange Royalty is chosen every year at Junior Grange Camp, held again this year at Camp Sylvan Hills Christian Camp in Howard, PA, June 28 - July 4. All 13 and 14 year-old campers (as of January 1, 2009) are eligible to compete for the titles. The finalists are selected from the results of a "Grange Knowledge" test given at camp. The contestants are then evaluated on an individual interview before the judges, an impromptu question asked and answered in front of all the campers and staff and the judges' impressions of the campers.

The Junior Grange Princess and Prince's responsibilities are to promote the Grange and especially the Junior Grange around the Commonwealth. They will be required to attend Ag Progress Days in State College in August, 2009, the 2009 PA State Grange Session to be held in October in Johnstown, the 2010 PA State Farm Show in Harrisburg, the PA State Grange Planning Meeting in Spring, 2010, and next year's PA State Junior Grange Camp, as well as other functions, fairs and events throughout the Commonwealth.

The Grange is a family fraternal organization dedicated to the betterment of the American quality of life through community service, education, legislation and fellowship. The Grange includes members of all ages from their Junior Grangers (ages 5-14), Youth Members (ages 14-23), Young Adults (ages 23-35) and Regular Community (local) members (age 14 and up). The Grange represents approximately 13,000 Pennsylvanians across the Commonwealth. It is the oldest agricultural and rural advocacy organization of its kind in the United States. The National Grange (Patrons of Husbandry), representing about 150,000 members, began in 1867 and the PA State Grange was chartered in 1873.

Junior Grange Camp to Spikes Game

2009-07-02T12:39:00.000-07:00

PA Junior Grange Camp kicked off at Camp Sylvan Hills, Centre County, on Sunday June 28, 2009.

On Tuesday afternoon, the campers were bussed to Penn State where they took a tour of the State College Spikes' Medlar Field ballpark. The Spikes are a Single A farm club of the Pittsburgh Pirates. They were led by Junior Grange Director Karen Mohn and her staff and they were met at the park by State Grange Master/President Betsy Huber and Public Relations Director Carl Meiss.

After the tour, campers hiked to Berkey Creamery on the campus of Penn State University where they were treated to ice cream cones.

They then hiked back to Medlar Field and cheered on the State College Spikes who lost to the Mahoning Valley Scrappers 4 to 6. Junior Princess Ashley Mohn and Prince Bobby Wike had the honor of throwing out the first pitch and each received an autographed baseball afterwards.

PA State Grange Awards More than $12,000

2009-06-23T11:10:00.000-07:00

PRESS RELEASE

PA STATE GRANGE

Date: June 22, 2009

Release: Immediate

Contact: Carl Meiss

Public Relations Dir.

publicrelations@pagrange.org

RE: PA State Grange Awards More than $12,000 in Scholarships and Loans

Lemoyne, PA-The PA State Grange has awarded scholarships and loans to twelve Grange members to assist them in their future academic endeavors.

Receiving the PA State Grange Foundation Scholarship of $1000. and a $500 Santee Student Loan was Constance Anderson of Saltsburg, Westmoreland County. Constance graduated from Kiski Area High School in 2007 and is a sophomore at Penn State University where she majors in Animal Science with a minor in Equine Science. She is the daughter of Robert and Barbara Anderson and is a member of Bell Twp. Grange #1756 in Westmoreland County.

Rebecca Roan is a senior at Penn State University majoring in Human Development and Family Studies. She received the PA State Grange Foundation Scholarship of $500 and a Santee Student Loan of $1000. She is the daughter of John and Linda Roan of PA Furnace and is a member of Baileyville Grange #1991 in Centre County.

Jennifer Nauss, a junior at Penn State University majoring in Communication Sciences and Disorders with a minor in Special Education and Human Development and Family Studies, received $1529 from the Grange Scholarship Endowment at the Pennsylvania State University and $500 from the Santee Student Loan. Jennifer is the daughter of Bradand Ann May Nauss of Mechanicsburg, Cumberland County. She is a member of the Valley Grange #1360 in York County and the Penn State Grange #2105 in Centre County.

Receiving $500 from the PA State Grange Foundation Scholarship and $500 from the Santee Student Loan Fund is Brandy Oakley from Nicholson, PA. Brandy is the daughter ofWayne and Debbie Oakley and will be a senior at Keystone College where she majors in Organizational Leadership. Brandy is a member of Lawsville Grange #1455 in Susquehanna County.

Awarded $400 from the Leonard Rhone Scholarship Fund and $1000 from the Santee Student Loan Fund is Ashley Casner of Petersburg. Ashley recently graduated from Juniata Valley High School and is entering Penn State, Harrisburg Campus where she plans to major in Elementary Education with a minor in Childhood Development. She is the daughter of Glen and Mary Casner and is a member of Baileyville Grange #1991 in Centre County.

Another Penn State freshmen, Brett K. Sattazahn of Womelsdorf, Berks County, received $400 from the Leonard Rhone Scholarship Fund. Brett is majoring in Environmental Soil Science and is the son of Kevin and Sherri Sattazahn. Brett is a graduate of Conrad Weiser High School and is a member of Marion Grange #1853.

Also receiving $1000 interest-free loans from the Santee Student Loan Fund are James Hawn, Allison Waltemyer and Heather Smith. Recently graduated from Juniata Valley High School, James Hawn will be attending Penn State Main Campus to work towards a certificate program in Turfgrass and Agricultural Equipment Repair. James is the son of Bill andLisa Hawn from Petersburg and he is a member of Baileyville Grange #1991 in Centre County. Allison Waltemyer is the daughter of Earl and Denise Waltemyer from Wyalusing. She just graduated from Northeast Bedford Junior/Senior High School and will attend Penn State Wilkesbarre in the fall where she plans to major in Animal Science. Allison is a member of Wysauking/Sheshequin Grange #58 in Bradford County. Heather Smith will be a senior at Mansfield University where she has dual majors in Respiratory Therapy and History. She is from Galeton, Potter County where she graduated from Galeton Area High School and lives with her mother Carol Jean Smith. Both are members of Carter Camp Grange #1563 in Potter County.

Other recipients of $500 from the Santee Student Loan Fund are Marshall Horne, Jennifer Rudy and Zachary Knight. From Greenville, Marshall V. Horne, son of Ivan and Carol Horne, graduated last year from Greenville Area High School and is attending the Indiana University of Pennsylvania - Academy of Culinary Arts aspiring to receive a certificate in Culinary Arts with a minor in Advance Baking and Pastry arts. Ivan and Carol Horne are members of Atlantic Grange #344 in Crawford County. Jennifer Rudy is a 2006 graduate of Halifax High School and has attended Harrisburg Area Community College where she majors in Elementary Education with a minor in Special Education. She hopes to go on to Penn State for her degree in teaching. She is the daughter of Fred and Linda Rudy from Halifax and is a member of Community Grange #2048 in Dauphin County. Hailing from Oxford, Lancaster County is Zachary T. Knight. Zachary's parents, Dave and Elaine Knight are members of Fulton Grange #66. He is a 2006 graduate of Solanco High School and is attending the New Jersey Institute of Technology where he majors in Architecture.

The PA State Grange Foundation Scholarship was established by delegate action in 1996. Eligible Grange members must seek higher education in any field at any institution of higher learning, entering their Junior or Senior year.

The Leonard Rhone Scholarship Fund was initiated in memory of Leonard Rhone, third Master (President) of the Pennsylvania State Grange. This scholarship is a $300 grant available to Grange members pursuing a four-year study in Agriculture or Human Development and Family Services at Penn State University.

The Santee Student Loan was established by the late Ellis M. Santee, a country doctor from Shickshinny and an active Grange member. This loan consists of a $500 per year, interest-free loan and is available to Grange members or their children.

The Grange Scholarship Endowment at the Pennsylvania State University was established to provide recognition to outstanding undergraduate students (Grange members) enrolled in at least their sophomore year at any College or campus of the Pennsylvania State University.

2009-06-10T12:57:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I attended meetings of both the House and Senate Agriculture Committees. The House Ag Committee approved 2 bills to amend the Clean and Green Law to make it easier for farmers to lease a portion of their land that is enrolled in C&G without paying huge amounts of roll-back taxes. This would include leasing for windmills, Marcellus shale natural gas, solar, and all other "Tier One" alternative energy sources.
The Senate Ag Committee approved a similar bill. Both committees also approved amendments allowing quarrying for blue stone on C&G parcels involving less than 5 acres without roll-back taxes.
The Senate committee also approved a bill amending Animal Cruelty provisions prohibiting dog owners from performing tail docking and ear cropping on their dogs, and granting authority to dog wardens to enforce certain provisions of the animal cruelty statute in counties without a court-appointed humane society police officer.
Following all this heavy stuff, I joined in the June is Dairy Month celebration on the Capitol steps with a giant ice cream sundae!
Betsy Huber, State Master

PA Grange Member Testifies Before PMMB

2009-06-03T08:26:00.000-07:00

PRESS RELEASE

PA STATE GRANGE

Date: June 3, 2009

Release: Immediate

Contact: Carl Meiss

publicrelations@pagrange.org

RE: PA Grange Member Testifies Before Pennsylvania Milk Marketing Board

Harrisburg, PA - In an effort to preserve the "opportunity for an eighth generation to work our farm, if they choose to do so," Matt Espenshade, a seventh generation dairy farmer from Lancaster County, presented testimony today on behalf of the PA State Grange, requesting that the Pennsylvania Milk Marketing Board "extend the $2.15 over-order premium payment."

Matt works with his father, on their Lancaster County dairy farm which has been in the family since 1867. They milk 80 cows, with a 21,000-pound rolling herd average, and raise their own heifers. They have no hired help to assist in the daily operations of the farm.

Espenshade told the PMMB, "During the past 142 years, our farm has weathered many storms...the Great Depression, a failed attempt at 'going organic,' threats of eminent domain seizure for development. However...at no time have we been as close to a breaking point as we are now." He continued, "In many ways, my farm's current situation is representative of many farms in Lancaster County, and across Pennsylvania."

He explained that, "We estimate our overall costs to be approximately $17.00 per hundredweight," and continued, "In March, we were paid $11.27 per hundredweight of milk. This includes 79 cents worth of premiums and bonuses that we have earned by our efforts to produce a quality product." "Our feed costs per hundredweight stood at $7.93, leaving just $3.34 to pay for every other expense on the farm, a mere 32 cents for every gallon of milk sold."

Matt, who is the President of the Elizabethtown Area Grange #2076, said, "I have many non-farm friends, and we speak often about our jobs and the challenges we face. Many cannot understand how [dairy farmers] can operate for such a small portion of the price of milk on the shelf. I am reminded of these numbers each week when I go to the store and pay more than three dollars for a gallon of milk, my milk, for which I was paid 88 cents."

He told the PMMB that in 2008, his farm paid over $131,000 to purchase feed, compared to $80,000 just five years ago. This is an average increase of $10,000 a year for approximately the same number of cows. The Espenshades have not been able to afford to use fertilizers on their fields for three years thus reducing their forage output.

Matt's wife must work off the farm to supplement the family income and provide for health insurance for the couple and their two young boys. But this then necessitates paying for day care for their children which takes another $11,000 a year chunk from their income.

Mr. Espenshade told the PMMB, "Every successful dairyman will tell you that routine hoof trimming is an essential part of maintaining a healthy herd. Every aspect of milk production is reliant on the mobility of our cows." He went on to say, "We have not been able to afford a hoof trimmer to tend to our cows in almost a year. Now, we are seeing more injuries, laminitis, and other associated problems than ever before." He stressed, "Cows are leaving the herd before their time, and all the money we have invested in raising and maintaining these animals is being lost."

In an effort to become better dairy farmers in the 21st century, both Matt and his wife, who grew up on a Wyoming County dairy farm, received ag-related college degrees, Matt at Penn State and Charlene at VA. Tech. Matt said, "My alma mater has the distinction, besides being a top agricultural institution, of having the highest in-state college tuition. How do you encourage a college graduate, with more than $20,000 of college debt, to return to a farm that would struggle to pay a fair wage? My wife, ten years after graduating, is still paying off college tuition, and that's with off-farm jobs."

Matt stated, "The money you choose to invest in the over-order premium is not just supporting the local farmer, but the businesses they depend on as well. To be honest, the premium you approve today will not spend much time in the pockets of the average farmer."

In asking the PMMB to at least maintain, if not increase, the $2.15 over-order premium for milk sold in Pennsylvania, Espenshade said, "As a seventh generation dairy farmer, in the end, I want only one thing in life: that there be an opportunity for an eighth generation to work our farm, if they choose to do so. The decision you make today will have a direct impact on my family, and other farm families across the state. Thank you for your assistance to dairy farmers in the past and your consideration of the matter before you today."

PA Grangers Attend National Grange Legislative Fly-In

2009-05-20T10:56:00.000-07:00

29 Grangers from Pennsylvania attended the 2009 National Grange Legislative Fly-In on Monday, May 18, 2009. They left the Farm Show complex at 8:00 a.m. and arrived for a tour of the National Cathedral at 10:30. They then traveled to the Cannon Building at the Capitol for lunch before heading to the National Grange Headquarters at 1616 H St, NW to listen to speakers on "Health Care Reform" and "Farmer Mac." After a tour of the Headquarters Building, they stopped at the MOuntaingate Restaurant in Thurmont, MD for dinner before getting back to the Farm Show Complex around 8:30 p.m.

Arsonist hits Big Knob Grange hall

2009-05-11T13:06:00.001-07:00

Arsonist hits Big Knob Grange hall

Big Knob Grange #2008, Beaver County, was the victim of a suspected arsonist over the weekend. Their hall in New Sewickley Township was saved by an observant passer-by who called 911 and quick responding and hard working firefighters. Fires were set within the building in at least four locations and were discovered by fire fighters. A joint investigation with the State Fire Marshall, New Sewickley Police Department and the Big Knob Fire Department is under way.

Big Knob President Bill Steel said the Grange will have to cancel or find new locations for parties and family reunions that had been scheduled for this summer but, "We've already heard from churches in the area that are offering their fellowship halls in its place."

Virginville Grange #1832 Open House

2009-05-07T17:49:00.000-07:00

Last night Virginville Grange #1832 in Berks County held their annual Open House. They had about 225 people attend! There were about 35 non-members in attendance! What an outstanding and FUN Grange show!

PA State Grange Executive Committee Supports Project to Display Quilts

2009-04-30T07:30:00.000-07:00

At its regular meeting on April 29, the PA State Grange Executive Committee agreed to support a project urging the State Museum of Pennsylvania to publicly display the collection of 200 antique quilts which they have in their collection.

This project was started by Phyllis Shipman of Fayetteville and Peggy Armstrong of Chambersburg who approached the Grange about supporting the project in a meeting with the PA State Grange President Betsy Huber on April 7, 2009.

These ladies have been able to get a House Resolutions declaring March 21, 2009 as "Quilting Day in Pennsylvania " as well as House Resolution #137 to "Honor our rich heritage of quilt making in Pennsylvania reflecting with great pride on the contributions that quilt makers have made in their local communities."

Executive Committee Approves PHMC Funding Resolution

2009-04-30T07:23:00.000-07:00

At their regular meeting yesterday, Wednesday, April 29, 2009, the PA State Grange Executive Committee approved to support a resolution from Russellville Grange #91 in Chester County:

RESOLVED that Russellville Grange [PA State Grange] supports the funding for the Pennsylvania Historic and Museum Commission (PHMC) Museum Assistance Line Item and the Pennsylvania History and Museum Grange Program and recognizes the significance of this funding and program to preserving, protecting, and publicizing the important cultural assets and historical resources of Pennsylvania and its communities; and be it further

RESOLVED that Russellville Grange [PA State Grange] urges the Pennsylvania General Assembly to provide funding of at least $1 million for the Museum Assistance Line Item in the Fiscal Year 2009-2010 Budget and in the Fiscal Year 2010-2011 Budget.

PA State Grange has a blog

2009-04-23T06:56:00.001-07:00

OK folks. The PA State Grange now has its own blog page. What do we do with it to get more information out to people?

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** GRANGE YOUTH OPPORTUNITY **

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PA State Grange has a blog

GRANGE YOUTH OPPORTUNITY