Marking Grange values and hometown roots

BY CHARLENE M. SHUPP ESPENSHADE | LANCASTER FARMING

STATE COLLEGE, Pa. — Last week, Pennsylvania Grange members traveled to State College to chart a course for the coming year. It was the 141st convention for the state’s oldest agricultural fraternal organization.

More than 300 Grangers gathered at the Ramada Inn for the three-day conference.

Known for its grass-roots, nonpartisan advocacy, Grange delegates voted on a variety of issues ranging from dairy policy reform and conservation programs to health and safety.

Recognitions for outstanding community service, as well as youth and junior member achievements, were also presented to the state’s county and subordinate, or community, Granges.

Pennsylvania State Grange Master Carl Meiss presented his annual address, reviewing the work of the past year.