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Dear
Brothers and Sisters:
I now declare April 2007 as Grange Month!
Many people have not heard about the Grange’s
activities or have forgotten about our legislative
power and our passion for community service. The
Grange voice has always been strong, and it will
continue to get stronger in the future, but along
the way, we must make sure that others hear our
voice.
The theme for Grange Month is Building Communities,
and the message that we want to get across is, “Grange
Month is a chance for community residents to come
together to celebrate all the wonderful things about
the place they call ‘home’ and the neighbors
they call ‘friends.’” This message
is fitting because the Grange certainly has done
a lot to improve communities and enrich peoples’ lives.
To celebrate the month, I am encouraging all Granges
to organize an open house and award ceremony program.
Open house programs are an excellent way to begin
building good relationships with the community your
Grange serves. It’s also an opportunity to
present a more complete picture of what really goes
on at the Grange. How many people are actually aware
of what really takes place at the Grange? My guess.
Not many. An open house program provides you with
the opportunity to showcase your good works.
To get the community more invested in attending
your program, I suggest that you present an award
to an outstanding community citizen. In fact, you
may want to open the nomination process up to the
community. Create an application and a flyer announcing
that your Grange is accepting applications and display
them in public places. In addition, make your community
newspaper aware of your plans and ask them to print
an announcement.
The key to a successful Grange Month is activity.
Enclosed, you will find information and materials
to help make your activities during Grange Month
a success. You will also find a participation form.
Please complete the form and return it to the National
Grange office, and we will recognize your participation
with a certificate that you can proudly display
in your Grange Hall. Other materials enclosed, include
an order form for Building Communities T-shirts.
I strongly encourage your Grange to purchase T-shirts
to show your unity in the community.
Get involved in your community, have fun, and meet
new friends and potential members. After all, an
active Grange is a healthy Grange. Happy Grange
Month!
Fraternally,
William A. Steel, National Master |
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