Commissioners proclaim April as National Grange Month

WAYNESBURG, PA. – During a recent meeting, Greene County Commissioners proclaimed the month of April as National Grange Month and recognized various representatives from the county’s three Granges.

Attending the meeting and accepting the proclamation were members of the East Franklin, Harveys-Aleppo and Carmichaels Granges, which were established many years ago as outreach organizations for this rural area.

The proclamation states that Granges have played a major role in the development of rural America during three centuries, advocating for legislative protection for farmers through the Granger Laws in the 1800s.

Granges have also promoted research and education to improve agriculture through the Cooperative Extension Service and Land Grant Colleges; worked to expand mail delivery and electricity to rural areas in the 1900s; and encouraged the expansion of broadband internet service and improvement of rural healthcare in the 2000s, according to the proclamation.

“The Grange strengthens individuals, families and communities through grassroots action, service, education, advocacy and agriculture awareness; and continues today to be an active force in thousands of communities across the country,” the proclamation states. “The Grange provides leadership, motivation, and education to bring together rural and urban families and offers them opportunities for personal growth and individual expression; and emphasizes civic responsibility and the involvement of people in the legislative process.”

Finally, the proclamation states that “the Grange promotes service to the local community and volunteerism to improve the quality of life and economic well-being of its members and friends.”

While presenting the proclamation, Commissioner Blair Zimmerman commended local Grange representatives for their efforts in continuing their service.

“On behalf of my fellow Commissioners Dave Coder and Archie Trader, we join you in celebrating what this proclamation stands for and we applaud you for exemplifying your pride in the legacy of this highly respected organization,” Zimmerman said.

In attendance were Mary Jane Kent, Harveys-Aleppo Grange Master; Marty Dinsmore, Greene County Pomona Master; Bill Humbert, Carmichaels Grange Master; and Taishea Ross and Thelma Szarell, Harveys-Aleppo Grange members.

Dinsmore thanked the Commissioners for the proclamation and said the Greene County Granges were “very proud” to represent its surrounding communities.

In the photo:
Pictured (l. to r.): Commissioner Dave Coder; Marty Dinsmore, Greene County Pomona Master; Commissioner Archie Trader; Mary Jane Kent, Harveys-Aleppo Grange Master; Bill Humbert, Carmichaels Grange Master; Thelma Szarell and Taishea Ross, Harveys-Aleppo Grange members, and Commissioner Blair Zimmerman.