| December 5, 2016 -- The first year of planning as State Secretary for State Session was expected to be “bumpy”—year two was supposed to be much easier— well it was in some ways but there always seems to be that new challenge that must be conquered! Well, Session is over and the office has been returned to its pre-State Session planning condition.
In the coming weeks the annual Bonding renewals will go out to Granges. We remind each Grange to review your coverage to ensure it meets the needs of your Grange. Bonding coverage is not optional as it is a requirement of the National Digest. Granges do have the ability to obtain their own coverage but it would be difficult to match the premiums offered by the National Grange blanket coverage. National usually doesn’t give us a lot of time to return payment in paperwork, so we ask that you return your renewal to the Central Office as soon after receiving it as possible.
We still have a number of Granges who have not sent in payment for their Dues Receipts for 2017. If you haven’t sent in yours, please do so soon.
At State Session we introduced a new program that enables Granges to have custom printed t-shirts without having to purchase large amounts of shirts in sizes that they don't need. Working with a shirt printer in nearby Millerton, NY, we were able to set up a template that will allow Granges to have shirts with the Grange emblem and their own Grange name on them. Printing on the back of the shirts is also available. The best part, is the ability to buy just the sizes and quantities you need. The only limitation is the minimum order of at least 12 shirts. For more information, please contact me by email or call the Central Office. A flyer was also included in the delegate packets so your delegates may also have the details to share with you. It's a great opportunity to let the public know the Grange is in their community and hopefully they will ask questions.
Looking for a Christmas Gift(s)? We still have the new t-shirts printed with the Grange emblem on them. They are available for $13.00 each and are available in Large, X-Large, and 2XL. Shipping charges are additional (if applicable).
We also have membership pins and jewelry available. Need more info? Give me a call or send an email to find out about availability.
I want to take this small space to acknowledge the passing of Betty Jane Gardiner. Betty Jane (in addition to many other jobs through the years) was Marion Beecher’s backup in the Central Office. During the last two years, I could count on an occasional call from Betty Jane. As her health kept her from Grange, she felt left out and needed to get caught up on the happenings so the phone would ring and it was Betty Jane asking if I had time to “talk to an old lady.” She was also an "adopted" member of Winchester Grange-- she will be greatly missed. I'm sure Marion and Betty Jane are now catching up on all the gossip.
Until next time, have a Merry Christmas and the happiest of New Years! |
