GRANGE NEWS Pennsylvania - January/February 2021
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Official Publication of the Pennsylvania State Grange www.pagrange.org
Pennsylvania
PENNSYLVANIA
January/February 2021
Grange News
GRANGE NEWS
It All Began at Eagle Grange #1... by Doug Bonsall
If this slogan sounds familiar, it appears on dozens of
t-shirts being worn around Pennsylvania as the state
prepares to celebrate 150 years of the Grange in the
Keystone State. It refers to Eagle Grange #1, founded
exactly 150 years ago in March 1871, thanks to the
perseverance of a progressive Lycoming County
farmer Luke Eger who lived with his wife Hannah on
a farm several miles west of the town of Montgomery
near Williamsport.
Before learning more details about Eagle #1, it might
be interesting to recall some of the things happening
in 1871 when this f irst Pennsylvania Grange was
organized.
• the first Governor of a U.S. state (North Carolina)
was removed from office by impeachment,
• the Civil Right Act of 1871 becomes law to combat
white supremacy groups,
• a massacre of Native Americans takes place in the On February 22, 1871, Luke Eger wrote to Brother
Arizona Territory, Kelley again to inform him that "I have at least
• the Great Chicago Fire burns for three days, succeeded in raising and organizing a club here".
destroying much of the city and Word soon arrived from Washington, that newly
• the National Rifle Association is granted a charter commissioned deputy, Col. D.D. Curtiss would be
by the state of New York. coming to Montgomery to officially organize the
Do these things sound like familiar topics to 21st Grange on March 4, 1871. There were 40 members on
century Americans? the charter for Eagle Grange #1, name after the
nearby Bald Eagle Mountain. Eag le #1 would be the
In this a t m o s p h e r e , Luke Eger had subscribed the only Grange in Pennsylvania for two years, but in 1873
previous year to several agricultural publications and the seed planted by Luke Eager would blossom into
in one of them The Prairie Farmer he saw an article the formation of other local Granges throughout the
about a new farm fraternity that had a great deal of state. By September of that year, 22 of 25 Granges
appeal to him. He quickly corresponded with Oliver functioning by that time sent representatives to
H u d s o n K e l l e y, s e c r e t a r y o f t h e P a t r o n s o f Reading to organize the Pennsylvania State Grange.
Husbandry, requesting information about the Eagle Grange was represented by Frank Porter, who
organization of a local unit. As soon as the was one of a committee of five appointed to draft a
information arrived, Mr. Eger began talking to his constitution and by-laws for the state organization
neighbors about the order but he made little progress and became the first Overseer of the State Grange.
convincing them to form a local Grange. But Luke was Interestingly, the once reluctant Frank Porter would go
enthusiastic and persisted, so finally according to his on to organize 41 Granges between 1873 and 1907
brother-in-law Frank Porter “Just to keep peace in throughout the north and central parts of the state.
the family” enough people agreed to become part of (c o n t i n u e d o n p a g e 2 0)
the new Grange.
2 March/April 2021
Ta b l e o f C o n t e n t s
TABLE OF CONTENTS
2 Cover Story - Eagle Grange
4 From The President’s Desk
Pennsylvania Grange News
5 Chaplain's Corner
20 Erford Road, Suite 216
Lemoyne, PA 17043
6 Family Activities Director
1-717-737-8855
www.pagrange.org
7 Membership News
Editor In Chief
8 Youth News
Wayne D. Campbell
Pennsylvania State Grange President
12 Lecturer Program Director
president@pagrange.org
15 MALC Information
Assistant Editor
Jane Birk
16 History Committee
Publishing Editors
18 Family Festival
Brittany Covey
Lizzie Bailey
20 150th Anniversary
2021 Deadlines
22 Junior Grange
May/June 2021 (Issue 3)
April 1, 2021
25 Deaf & Community Service
July/August 2021 (Issue 4)
26 Government Matters
June 1, 2021
30 What's Happening Across PA
September/October 2021 (Issue 5)
August 1, 2021
32 Did You Know?
November/December 2021 (Issue 6)
34 New Members/In Memoriam
October 1, 2021
35 Calendar of Events
Follow the
Pennsylvania State Grange
36 Grange Benefits
Twitter - @PAGrangePR
Facebook - PaStateGrange
Cover Photo taken by
A portion of members' dues is paid as a subscription.
Carole Troutman
Title: Pennsylvania Grange News
Issue: March/April 2021 Advertisement Disclaimer
Statement of Frequency: Bi-monthly The views and opinions expressed in the
Authorized organization's name & address: advertisements of this issue are those of the
Pennsylvania State Grange authors and do not necessarily reflect or
20 Erford Road, Suite 216 represent the views and opinions of the
Pennsylvania State Grange.
Lemoyne, PA 17043
March/April 2021 3
Virtual Farm Show you can go to our website and
From the President's Desk click on the link to watch the presentation. We
have made progress on this issue in 2020, but
Wayne D. Campbell
there is still a long way to go. The Pandemic has
PA State Grange President
broug ht this issue to the forefront of every
president@pagrange.org
legislator in the Harrisburg Schools, wi th rural
businesses, doctors, and hospitals, they have
all seen the effects of not having adequate
I am wri ting this ar ticle a few days af ter the Broadband available.
inauguration of our 46th President. The events
leading up to the inauguration show how much
We need to continue to be
we need to offer the grange to our friends and
“Cultivating Connections” as we go forward in 2021.
neighbors. Oliver Hudson Kelley was given the
task of traveling through the South after the Civil
War to determine what it would take to reunite
the country. This monumental task was bestowed
upon him by our 17th President, Andrew Johnson.
Mr. Kelley s o o n realized t h a t rural America
needed a voice. Now, most of you know this story
so I won't tell it to you again. If you are looking
for more history o f t h e G r a n g e I would
encourage you to visit the History Department
on our website at www.pagrange.org.
What I will tell you is how strongly I feel the
Grange i s needed today. The p h i l o s o p h y of the
Grange tells us to have fai th in God, nurture
Hope, dispense Chari t y, and to be noted for
Fidelity. We hold a very important place in Local, Oliver Hudson Kelley
State, and Federal government because we are
non-partisan. When I visit any government office
they always welcome me and are willing to talk to We need to continue to be "Cultivating
us because t h e y know t h e Grange i s there to Connections" as w e w i l l go f o r w a r d i n 2021.
discuss the issues and work for the betterment of Please remember and practice two very
rural and urban America. It's hard to believe that important words, "Be Kind." We close our Grange
we will o n l y be a few short months away from meetings w i t h t h e s e words, "Let us b e q u i e t ,
another election on May 18, 2021, when you read peaceful citizens, feeding the hungry, helping the
this. That would be a perfect time, COVID-19 fatherless and the widows, and keeping ourselves
restrictions allowing to host a meet the unspotted from the wo r l d . "Promote the Grange
candidates n i g h t . I f w e can't h a v e large in your area as that one way to unite each other,
indoor gatherings, c o n s i d e r a well-publicized to be a non-partisan voice in your community
ZOOM meeting. that continues to be "Cultivating Connections."
This would be a great opportunity for you to Fraternally,
promote the need for adequate and affordable
Braodband for all Pennsylvanians. If you did Wayne D. Campbell
not get to join in on the public meeting the President
Pennsylvania State Grange hosted during the Pennsylvania State Grange
4 March/April 2021
Chaplain's Corner Do you know why we use chicks,
Jodi Keith Kensinger
PA State Grange Chaplain
peeps, and bunnies at Easter?
Jesus did that for us! He took on As Easter slowly approaches,
the world's sins and created a encourage all of you to look for
Happy Easter! clear way, leading directly to God in new life around you. Don't
stop at the cross! God is in the
Heaven and into the kingdom of
As I sit down to write this, we God, so that we could live in beautiful tulips that grow every
are only a few short weeks away eternity forever and ever! Spring. He is in the birth of a new
from Valentine's Day and he day baby calf. He lives deep down
filled with love all around us. God, himself, defeated the inside each one of us and that in
The stores were already putting ultimate death by living as a itself, is TRUE LOVE! The heart on
out Valentine's Day merchandise human on Earth for 33 years and Valentine's Day represents the
the day after Christmas. I don't then dying on the cross In three heart of God, that he gave to us
know about you, but it reminds days' time, he descended into hell on Easter morning, in the form of
me that we need to take time for and resurrected on Easter his son. From our human love
one another and love each other morning, to bring new and towards one another to God's
as God has loved us. Growing up, beautiful life to all of creation In a love towards one another to
my Sunday school teacher
constantly shared with us John
3:16, "For God so loved the
world, that he gave his only
begotten son, that whosoever
believeth in him shall not parish,
but have everlasting life." How
awesome is it that God loved me
enough to send his ONLY son to
die on the cross for me? For all
of us?
You see, with God's love, there
are not terms or conditions.
There is no contract that you children's sermon done a few God's love (which is unconditional)
must sign! It is FREE, whereas years ago, a minister asked the to everlasting love (in heaven), He
with human love...We have young kids, "Do you know why we has certainly blessed us with a
conditions and expectations that use chicks, peeps, and bunnies at direct footpath through Jesus to
need to be upheld. God chose to Easter? It is because they God himself.
become one of us and took on represent new life, just like what
the burden of our sins, so that spring represents and Easter Happy Easter friends and may
there was a clear and righteous promises. The goodies remind us God bless you richly this Easter
pathway to Heaven. In John 3:17, to celebrate that Christ is alive. season!
it says, "For God did not send his For example, Chicks... Think of
son into the world to condemn their egg shell like Christ's tomb Easter Blessings
the world, but to save the world and the chick comes from it. Jodi Keith Kensinger
through him." Hence, the resurrection of Sunflowercow19@yahoo.com
Christ."
March/April 2021 5
Melanie Melius
PA State Grange
Family Activities Director
Hope to see everyone at Family Fest!
Hi Everyone, enjoyable visit. We hope you will
Hope everything is going well as think about signing up to spend
can be expected. I Just wanted to time at the Rhoneymeade farm.
share with everyone packets for
Family ActivIties are ready to be
2021 Family Activity Quilt
mailed. Secretaries watch your "Remember Me"
mail as you will be getting the
packet soon, so PLEASE give to Family Activities Needs You!!!
your Family Activities person in
your Grange. Quilt raff le tickets will be
arriving to your Grange. The
New contests this year so I hope Family Activities will be serving Family Activities Department
to see a lot of new entries Lizzie the dinner along with the Youth needs your help more than ever
and I have a good tour for this group so bring your appetite in buying and selling quilt
year's schedule as we will be with you Friday evening. There chances.
visiting the Rhoneymeade will also be good workshops and
Arboretum & Sculpture Garden. discussions on Grange topics The quilt raffle is how we raise
funds for the Family Activities
So let's pray and keep our Department and with the lack of
fingers crossed we get our life events due to COVID-19 guidelines,
back to some normalcy. Hope we are struggling with ticket sales.
to see everyone at Family
Fest. Please plan on attending Consider purchasing a few extra
with y o u r o t h e r Fa m i l y tickets to use as a gift or a way to
t h a t w e haven't seen in a very say "thank-you" to someone who
long time. has helped you with something.
Just by selling or buying a few
This was Leonard Rhone's farm If you didn’t hear I have 2 new extra tickets will help Family
which is located just a few miles ladies on Family Activities this Activities reach our sales goals o f
from the Grange Fairgrounds y e a r, a n d t h e y a r e K a r e n funding our department!
i n C e nt re Ha l l . We h ave a Poorman from Woolrich, PA and
wonderful visit planned with Isabella Boone from Warriors Thank you
a n o l d fashioned picnic, music, Mark, PA so I hope everyone Yours Truly
a n d a p r e s e n t a t i o n by the gives them a good Welcome.
the Executive Director James Till then if you have any Melanie Melius
Lesher. Rhoneymeade offers some questions about the contest Family Activities Director
beautiful views and will be an melmelius59@gmail.com
entries Please email or call me Cell (814)360-7058
. (Melanie) PLEASE, I will try to
answer all your questions.
6 March/April 2021
Membership News
Lizzie Bailey
PA State Grange Success comes in many
Membership & PR Director
shapes and forms...
Life Lessons One thing that I remember is she She made time for me no matter
did it all with love. She was what she was working on. We
passionate about her projects would have cups of tea together
Growing up I spent a lot of time and she truly seemed to enjoy as we sat on the stoop of her
with my Gramm Leighton. She them. She was used to long days porch. She loved music. Gramm
was so talented and was and hard work but she would would often entertain me while
successful at everything from hum while she worked and she playing her Jew's harp or using
cooking, baking, crafting, sewing, enjoyed being busy. spoons to make music. She would
gardening, playing musical tell me stories from when she
instruments and the list could was a little girl, talking about
continue to go on and on. Tips for Success family, or how things used to be
in our community. She would
Her talents were born out of 1. Love what you are doing.
have little stories too that were
necessity as she raised ten kids, based on a moral that she felt
some through the depression. 2. Teach what you know.
important for me to learn. When
She was so used to long days and I think back to those days, it is all
3. Be a storyteller.
hard work. She knew the pain of these little things that I fondly
heartache as her little baby boy, remember the most.
4. Share love no matter what
Joe, passed away at the onset of
your personal pain may be.
The Great Depression. The definition of success comes
5. Busy hands make things in many shapes and forms. When
She always knew how to make happen. thinking of my Gramm the
something out of nothing and did definition of success was pretty
so on many occasions. I was 6. Little things make big clear. I hope you can use these 6
always mystified how she would differences to others. little tips of success in your
make a dress pattern from an old Grange as we continue to focus
newspaper. She would take that on growing our membership.
same newspaper and entertain
me while making paper cuttings
Yours in Grange service,
known as scherenschnitte. She
would hand me a string of paper
Lizzie Bailey
dolls or a paper square with fancy
PR/Membership Director
little shapes inside it. Then it
717-254-9550 Cell
would be my turn to make my
717-737-8855 Office
own creation as she continued
publicrelations@pagrange.org
working on her chores.
March/April 2021. 7
Youth Committee
Ellen Wadsworth
PA State Grange Youth Director
Welcome Spring!
Welcome Spring!! The Youth and Other dates to make sure you July 15-18 – PA State Grange
Young Adults Department is have marked in your calendar are: Family Festival. Youth activities
gearing up for a busy Spring and for this great weekend will
Summer! March 19-21 –Mid Atlantic include a Volleyball Tournament
Leaders Conference (MALC) and (start practicing now!), an
Our Grange Youth Mixer (GYM) Regional Youth Contests, hosted exercise class (maybe Pounds
kicks off via Zoom every 4th by Potomac Grange #1 this year), and a Road Rally!
Sunday evening at 7 pm. Join us (Washington DC) and held All attendees are eligible to
for a relaxing time to link up with virtually. Complete with participate in the Knowledge Test
youth and young adults friends presentations by several National and our new PA State Grange
from across the state. A relaxing Directors and Officers, this 2-day Outstanding Young Patrons will
and low key activity or discussion event March 19-20 is open to ANY also be selected. The MALC
is planned for each month. Grange member or prospective Regional Public Speaking and
Join us for GYM fun on Sunday, member for the low registration Sign-a-Song contests will also be
February 28th at 7 pm price of $10. Registration ends held during this weekend.
And Sunday, March 28th at 7 pm 23rd February:
And Sunday, April 25th at 7 pm http://www.grange.org/potomac July 20-25 – Grange Revival in
And so on. dc1/2021-mid-atlantic-grange- the Black Hills of South
It’s easy to join in the fun either leaders-conference/ Dakota. This is the 2nd Grange
by computer or phone. Revival and is designed to be a
The Zoom link is: April 23-25 – PA Young Adults family friendly event for all
Weekend, planned for south Grange members and friends and
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/8671 central PA. More info will be sent family to create and strengthen
9178861pwd=RXRxZEF0TUVXam and posted as it arrives. fraternal bonds. If you are a
93NHFONytPNDdEZz09 “seasoned” youth member and
June 25-27 - PA State Grange miss the good old days of summer
or call +1-301-715-8592. Youth Camp. The theme for Youth camp, THIS IS YOUR CHANCE!
The Meeting ID: 867 1917 8861 Camp is 2021 Grange Olympics. Don’t miss out on this great event.
and Passcode: 224121. Save this weekend on your More info is available on
calendar and look in this issue for Facebook, search for Grange
Information will also be posted on registration information or online Revival 2021.
the Youth and Young Adults FB at:
page prior to each GYM so make https://form.jotform.com/21032 And there is so much more to
sure you are a member of the FB 5685322147. come during the rest of 2021!!!
group to receive the
reminder. Drop in on any 4th (continued on pg.10)
Sunday and see what’s happening
around the state!
8. March/April 2021
March/April 2021 9
Youth (Continued from page 9)
New Opportunity! Become a
Sponsorship Happy
sponsor for a member of the
Youth Officer /team. Beginning
Opportunity St. Patrick's
with the Youth Officer Team
selected for the Pennsylvania vest per $100 will be available. To Day!
State Grange Session in October sponsor a member of the Youth
2021, the Youth Officers will be Team without a supporter vest,
presented with an official Youth we are requesting a donation of at May your pockets
Team vest, including the Grange least $60. If you have a specific
logo and their name embroidered office that you would like to
be heavy and your
on the front. It's time for our sponsor, please annotate that on heart be light.
State Youth Team to have a the form below.
distinct identifier, similar to those
of the FFA and 4-H. The Youth The Youth Team will be wearing May good luck
and Young Adults Committee has their vest while participating in
selected gray vests for the Youth any Grange activity to show their pursue you each
Team and black vests for pride in this great organization. morning and night.
sponsors. Thank you for your help in
recognizing our amazing Youth
To sponsor a member of the and Young Adults! -Irish Proverb
Youth Team and receive your own
black vest, we are requesting a Fraternally,
donation of at least $100 to the Ellen M. Wadsworth
Pennsylvania Grange Youth Pennsylvania State Grange
Department. Donations can be Youth and Young Adults Director
made by Granges, individuals or
small groups but only 1 supporter
Youth Officer Team Sponsorship
Sponsor Name:
_________________________________________________________________
Address:
_____________________________________________________________________
Phone: _____________________________ Email:
_______________________________
I/We would like to sponsor _________________________________________________
office
Select one:
___ $100 donation to sponsor a member of the Youth Team, receive a supporter vest, size: _____
___ $60 donation to sponsor a member of the Youth Team
Please send this form and sponsorship to: 362 University Road, Lincoln University, PA 19352
10. March/April 2021MARKETPLACE
QUILT RAFFLE Family Activity
Quilt Raffle Tickets!
$1.00 each
Send a check to
Melanie Melius, FA Director
P.O. Box 103
Pine Grove Mills, PA 16868
Questions?
Call: 814-360-7058
Email: melmelius59@gmail.com
March/April 2021 11Jenn Nauss about each workshop are included
in this issue of the PGN.
PA State Grange
Lecturer
*Note for anyone who is
Springtime greetings registered for the Virtual Mid-
Atlantic Leaders Conference
from South Central PA! (MALC) on March 19th-20th –
please feel free to log in for the
Zoom practice sessions on March
As we enter the spring, it is hard conferences this year as I had
13th or 15th if you would like to
to believe that it has been one originally hoped. So we are
rolling out a series of virtual practice logging in before the
year s i n c e t h e C O V I D
p a n d e m i c escalated here in the leadership workshops for all MALC.*
US. I would like to commend
those Granges who have Grange leaders and Talent Contest
continued to break from members! Workshops will As I write this, we are planning
tradition and find new take place on Saturday and hoping that Family Festival
a n d innovative ways to reach mornings at 10:00 am from can be held this July. That means
their members in the past mid-March to mid-May. that it’s time to get ready for the
year. From transitioning to 2021 Talent Contest, held the
virtual meetings to finding We will be using video
evening of Saturday, July 17th at
creative ways to continue conferencing program Zoom to
allow members to participate via the Centre County
programming and service
projects, many Granges have computer or phone. Each Fairgrounds! Start preparing your
overcome the challenges of this workshop will also be live- entries in one of these categories:
year. If your Grange is streamed to YouTube to allow for Vocal, Instrumental, or
struggling to find ways to move members to watch them at a later Variety. Entries are limited to a
forward in the midst of this time if they are unavailable for any time limit of 5 minutes. I know our
pandemic, please reach out workshop. We encourage all Grangers have talent – please
to myself or the State Grange Grangers to participate in as
encourage your members to share
office so that we can help you many of these workshops as they
their gifts! The Best of Show
brainstorm some new ideas. wish! A l t h o u g h some
workshops are being developed winner will have the opportunity
with certain officers or to represent Pennsylvania at the
Virtual Leadership Workshops
take the place of R e g i o n a l committees in mind, we welcome National Session in Kansas in
Conferences. anyone to participate who is November!
Unfortunately, the dangers of the interested!
COVID pandemic have Update to Contests and Programs
n o t dissipated, although I hope I will also be holding two practice Now is the time to work on
we can “see the light at the end of sessions – on Saturday, March preparing your reports and
the tunnel” with the vaccine now 13th at 10:00 am and Monday,
contest entries for the State
being distributed. Sadly, I do not March 15th at 7:00 pm–for anyone
S e s s i o n i n O c t o b e r. P l e a s e
think it will be safe to gather who would like to make sure they
can get logged on to Zoom before reference the 2020-2021 Guide to
in large numbers for regional
the wo rk s h o p s begin. T h e Contests and Programs that was
schedule and more information distributed to your Granges and is
on the website (pagrange.org).
12 March/April 2021Please note that several of the Entries for the “Design a The “My Favorite Anything”,
revised contests because of Program” contest and the Photography, and Art contests
COVID will continue for 2021, “Lecturer’s Grant” are due to me continue for this year. Please
including: by September 15th. I know that remember that promoting these
Lecturers are still planning contests is a way to develop skills
• Creative Connections – taking programs during this time, and talents in your members. Plan
the place of the Community whether your Granges are programs or special activities
Night/Open House report meeting in-person or where artists, photographers, and
form. This year, there will be two virtually. Please submit these in artisans teach members how to
divisions. the “Design a Program” contest hone these skills!
- Division A – Granges who held to both share these great ideas
their Open Houses, whether in- with other Lecturers/Program Program Ideas April
person or virtually Directors and also to be Grange Month
- Division B – Granges who could recognized for your even though we may not be able to
not hold an Open House but did work! Winning programs will meet traditionally, it does not
another designated project to receive a monetary award of $30 mean we shouldn’t take this
“tell their Grange Story” instead for first place, $20 for second opportunity to share our Grange
- There will still be membership place, and $10 for third place. All Story with our members and
classes in each division (A and B): entries will be compiled into a community. Consider holding a
1. Pomona “Lecturers’ Idea Book,” which will virtual Open House via Zoom or
2. Subordinate – Up to 50 be available to Lecturers and another video conferencing
members other members. program. If this is not an option,
3. Subordinate – Between 51 and perhaps your Grange can share
99 members The “Lecturer’s Grant” aims to information about your Grange
4. Subordinate – 100 or more provide support for those and what you are doing in the
members Lecturers who are preparing – or community with local media and
Winning Granges in each division who would like to prepare – on social media.
and class will receive a framed high-quality programs, but may May
Certificate of Excellence. lack the financial resources to Armed Forces Day and Memorial
make them a reality. The Day – Plan a program to honor
•. Pen in Hand - “One thing I “Lecturer’s Grant” will provide at members who serve or have served
learned during Social least one grant of $100 to in any branch of the armed
Distancing…” winning Lecturers. Entries forces. As part of the program,
- 500 word maximum should include a program memorialize any members or
- All other Pen in Hand rules proposal, budget proposal, and a families who have given their lives
should be followed as detailed in brief letter of need (500 word in service.
the Guide to Contests and maximum). Entries are due to Plant a Vegetable Garden Day –
Programs me by September 15th for May 19th – Invite a representative
judging prior to the State from Penn State Extension to talk
•. Photography – “Beauty in the Session. Please let us help you with members about planting their
Midst of Crisis” and your Granges achieve your own vegetable gardens If a speaker
-All Photography rules should be goals to share meaningful, is unable to be present at an in-
followed as detailed in the educational programs with your person meeting, have them
Guide to Contests and members! participate virtually via Zoom or
Programs. Reports and another video conferencing
Scrapbooks are due to me by program.
September 15th.
March/April 2021 13.14 March/April 2021
MALC Zoom Instructions
For Computer Users For Phone Users
*You DO NOT need to create a Zoom account.
1. Dial 1 (929) 436-2866
1. Type the following link into your web browser:
2. You will hear: “Welcome to Zoom."
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86722620746?
pwd=NllqUTJUdGFyMVMrVU1kd25uZURoQT09 Enter your meeting ID followed by #”
2. You may need to enter a Meeting ID and 3. Meeting ID: 867 2262 0746, Press #
Password. 4. Next you will hear: “Enter your
Meeting ID: 867 2262 0746 Participant ID followed by #.
Password: 1873 Otherwise, just press # to continue. “
3. You will be asked how you wish to join your 5. There is no Participant ID, just press
audio. Select “Join Audio by Computer” or “Join the # key.
with Computer Audio”. 6. Next you will hear: “Please enter the
4. You may next see a window asking you if you
Meeting Password followed by #.”
wish to join by video. Select which option you
would prefer – “Join with Video” or “Join without
7. Meeting Password: 1873, Press #
Video” 8. Next you will hear: “You are in the
5. Now you should have joined the meeting! meeting now. Please stand by.”
6. In the bottom left corner of your screen, you 9. Wait on the line for the meeting to
will see a microphone – you can mute and begin. You’ll begin to hear others talking
unmute yourself by clicking on that button. You as they also join the meeting.
will also see a videocamera – you can start and
stop your video by clicking on that button.
Congratulations to Pennsylvania’s Winners
Contact the State Grange office if
you would like to utilize Zoom for
in National Lecturer’s Contests!
your Grange meetings!
Several Pennsylvania Grangers won prizes in the 2020 As always, please reach out with
National Lecturer’s contests! Congratulations to the following any questions, concerns, or
members and Granges! thoughts!
Virtual Photo Contest Jenn Nauss
- Ashley Mohn, Marion #1853 – 1st Place (Animals) PAStateGrange Lecturer/Program
- Shelley Fayewicz, Virginville #1832 – 2nd Place (People) Director
(717) 512-1261
- Jim (Bud) Snyder, Valley #1360 – 2nd Place (Scenery)
jnauss89@gmail.com
Quilt Block Contest
- Alice Hartman, Kimberton #1304 – 3rd Place (Group I –
Age 14+)
Publicity Item Contest
- Virginville Grange #1832 – 1st Place (Professional)
March/April 2021 15History Committee
Doug Bonsall Meecee Baker discussing
Honoring Our History &
PA State Grange History Director
Preserving Our Future at the
kick-off luncheon. Her challenge
150th Anniversary Events! to Grange members in
2021, departing from the usual
anniversary message of
Anniversary Kickoff Luncheon - postponement decision was remembering past glories, will ask
By the time this issue of the PA made in large part to address the tough question “Is our history
Grange News arrives in your continuing COVID-related safety and its traditions hindering the
mailbox, this announcement will concerns about large in-person Grange’s future?” We are indeed
likely be old news to our indoor gatherings. fortunate to have engaged such
readers! With no sign of an end an unusually qualified
to COVID concerns and All persons with a reservation motivational speaker to urge us
restrictions, the decision was for the luncheon have been forward into the future; Sister
made by the State Grange notified or the change of date Baker’s picture and biography
History Committee in early and refunds issued for anyone appeared in the last issue
February to reschedule all 150th unable to attend on the new (January-February 2021).
anniversary kick-off events date.
originally planned for Saturday Grange Hall of Fame Recognition
April 17, 2021, to Saturday The kick-off program will also
September 18, 2021. honor three outstanding
See the latest Pennsylvania Grangers – the late
150th anniversary update
The celebration, scheduled since brothers Leonard Rhone, John W.
on the State Grange website
2019, includes an open house Scott and J. Luther Snyder – for
by clicking on
brunch at Eagle Grange #1 their induction into the National
(Montgomery, PA) from 10am- Grange Hall of Fame. Their
1pm and a gala luncheon for up https://www.pagrange.org/state families and National Grange
to 200 persons at the Country -grange-150th-anniverary.html President Betsy Huber are
Cupboard Restaurant and expected to be in attendance.
Shoppes near Lewisburg starting
at 1:30pm. As this article is Lighting the Cake – Notice in the
being written on February 1, photo how our sesquicentennial
2021, more than 100 reservations Reminder about Kick-Off cake is lighting up! Wouldn’t it be
had already been received for Luncheon Tickets - Ticket wonderful if all 150 candles on the
the April 17th luncheon which reservations for the 150th anniversary cake had been
exceeds the 50% seating anniversary kick-off luncheon purchased and are ablaze when
capacity limits for dine-in are still being accepted by Anna we gather for the kick-off events?
service in effect at that May Nauss at: (717) 697-5104 or Remember – candles may be
time. Limiting attendance is amnauss@aol.com. The price is purchased by individuals, groups
definitely not something watned $25 for adults with children's of individuals or Granges and may
for the kick-off of the Grange prices ranging from $2-$12 be in any amount between $1 and
sesquicentennial depending on age. Luncheon $150.
celebration! Even if those Speaker Dr. Meecee Baker - You
seating restrictions are cased or won't want to miss speaker
lifted by April, the
16 March/April 2021Our “Light the Cake” chairs Steve
& Karen Mohn remind everyone
that purchase of candles in
duplicate amounts is welcomed
and encouraged!
Although some duplicates
candles have already been
purchased, at press time we were
still looking to light candle
numbers 12, 54, 64, 67, 68, 70, 71,
73, 80, 81, 82, 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89,
90, 91, 92, 93, 94, 95, 97, 99, 102,
103, 105, 106, 107, 108, 109, 111, 112,
113, 114, 115, 117, 118, 119, 121, 122,
123, 124, 127, 128, 129, 130, 131, 132,
133, 134, 135, 136, 137, 138, 139, 140,
141, 142, 144 and 145.
Contact one of the following to
buy whatever candle(s) you wish
to support plans for the Grange’s
150th anniversary. 150th Anniversary "Light the Cake" Fundraiser.
.
Chairs:
Steve & Karen Mohn Degree Exemplification – Sixth degrees in 2023 in Reading.
askmohn@comcast.net
Another group has come forth These degrees are an important
610-589-2473
Northwest Regional Coordinator
and volunteered to exemplify one part of our history and we all will
Kelly VanOrd of the degrees as part of our learn from the lessons taught by
kvanord@verizon.net celebration for 150 years of their beautiful symbolic language.
814-484-7295 Grange work in Pennsylvania! But………we are still looking for
Northcentral Regional Coordinator The Third Degree will be Granges, counties, or other
Cheryl Miller presented by the PA State Grange groups of patrons to exemplify the
miller.cheryl39@yahoo.com Youth Committee at the 2022 First and Second degrees in 2021
814-355-1139
state session in York, joining at the session in Valley Forge.
Northeast Regional Coordinator
Centre County Pomona #13
Penny Carpenetti
bpcarpy@icloud.com which previously committed to To volunteer or for more
570-878-4244 exemplifying the Fourth Degree. information, contact Doug
Southwest Regional Coordinator That means we are two-thirds of Bonsall, PO Box 765, Dauphin, PA
Janet Fishovitz the way toward our goal of 17018
jfishovitz@gmail.com presenting the first through sixth
724-494-5472 degrees in full form during the Doug Bonsall, Chair
Southcentral Regional Coordinator anniversary – we can now Pennsylvania State Grange
Krista Pontius
confirm the Third and Fourth History Committee
kpontius@greenwoodsd.org
717-385-6015
degrees in 2022 and Fifth and Douglas.b@verizon.net
Southeast Regional Coordinator 717-921-1957 or 717-460-0723
Gene & Denae Zvarick
gazvarick@yahoo.com
484-663-3219
March/April 2021 1718 March/April 2021
March/April 2021 19
Eagle Grange cont. page 2
As early as the third meeting of Eagle Grange, the
minutes recorded discussion about the erection of
a Grange Hall. But it would not be until April 1887
that one-fourth acre of land was purchased from
the Eger’s for $20 on which to build a two-story
h a l l . The h a l l , originally on the west side of the
present Route 15, was dedicated on February 22,
1888, and is still in use today. In 1940, due to the
construction of a new Route 15 involving the plot
of ground on which the hall stood, the building
was moved a short distance onto a new one-half
acre blot on the east side of the highway. In 1968 a
major step forward was taken with the
construction of an addition to the hall, providing a
n e w a n d b e t t e r - e q u i p p e d k i t c h e n , indoor
restrooms, and a partial basement. In 2001 the
Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission 1971 Centennial Plate
honored Eagle Grange with the installation of an
official historical marker.
Eagle Grange has been continually active
for the past 150 years, although there have
been multiple peaks and valleys in both
m e m b e r s h i p a n d a ct i v i t y. E a g l e J u n i o r
Grange #307 was formed in 1945 was very
active for more than 30 years. About 10
years ago, the active membership of the
Grange reached an all-time low and there
was fear that Eagle #1 would have to
disband. Thanks to the foresight of some
Lycoming County Grangers, including t wo
former State Masters, a number of new
Affiliate members came to the rescue of the
s t r u g g l i n g G r a n g e . M o r e r e c e n t l y, t h e
State Grange History Committee committed
to providing help with two members of the
committee taking an active leadership role
at Eagle. Other support came with the
consolidation of the following neighboring
Granges into Eagle's membership: White
Historical Marker Ceremony
Ha l l # 1 24 4 i n 1 9 6 9, We s t Bra n c h # 1 3 6 , a n d
Bottle Run #1301, both in 2018 and
Delaware #1895 in 2021.
20 March/April 2021taking an active leadership role at Eagle. Other support came with the consolidation of the following
neighboring Granges into Eagle’s membership: White Hall #1244 in 1969, West Branch #136 and
Bottle Run #1301, both in 2018, and Delaware #1895 in 2021.
Grants from several different sources were received in the 1990’s and early 2000’s to improve the
facility including the installation of new windows and roof repairs. In 2019 the “Friends of Eagle
Grange” initiative resulted in thousands of dollars contributed by individuals, other Granges, and
local organizations. These funds, along with proceeds of several take-out dinners and use of some
invested funds realized from the sale of property from the Granges consolidated into Eagle financed
expenditures of nearly $50,000 for a major upgrade in 020-21 including handicap designated
p a r k i n g , an e n t r a n c e r a m p , A D A - c o m p l i a n t r e s t r o o m s , new kitchen commercial equipment,
installation of a chairlift, new heating-cooling system and a c o m p l e t e repainting of the entire
facility.
Major efforts are now underway to expand the Grange’s outreach to its community. Recent projects
have been sponsoring a candidates’ night round table, awarding grants of $500 to each of three local
fire companies, supporting the FFA Blue Jacket Scholarship program, organizing a family-friendly
road rally scavenger hunt, and providing 150 free "Share
t h e Love” d i n n e r s o n Valentine’s weekend, Upcoming
events being planned for the rest of the 150th anniversary
year are: a community seminar on the Spotted Lanternfly
invasion, a free Family Carnival, a picnic honoring veterans, a
free concert in a local park and a historical program with a
presentation of citations from legislators.
Photos by Jenn Nauss
For the latest details about Eagle Grange events, join the Facebook page at:
https://www.facebook.com/Eagle-Grange-1-280211017218/.
March/April 2021. 21Junior Committee
Phillip Vonada
PA State Junior Grange Director
Counselors and Helpers - Our
committee is looking for
Grangers age 15+ as of the start
of camp who are dedicated to
Spring is just around the corner, assisting in leading camp
and I couldn't be happier. I'm counselors and helpers will play on January 31st - it was great to
looking forward to longer, an integral part of camp, and have so much energy and fun
warmer days, getting outside for many will have additional online for a little while! Our
some fresh air, and seeing responsibilities than they have NEXT gathering will be on
nature 'spring' back to life! Of had in previous years. March 21st at 2pm, so I hope you
course, that also means summer can join us! Let us know if you
isn't far away. You'll see that the had fun, and if you have ideas on
application for Junior Camp is what you'd like to do next
available already! The JG time! Registration information
Committee is hard at work will be posted in the PA Junior
planning an AMAZING week at Grange Facebook Group in
Wilderness Survival Camp from February.
June 27-July3 at Camp Sylvan
Hills - we are looking forward to Anyone under age 18 will be Junior Directors - please save
a week full of learning, considered a 'helper', and April 11 at 2pm for a meeting on
adventure, friendship, and counselors must be age 18. All Zoom. The PA Junior Committee
fun! From learning how to track counselors and helpers must wants to know how we can serve
animals in the woods to provide current and assist the Junior Directors
identifying edible plants to clearances. Please email me at across Pennsylvania, especially
mapping the stars at night, we pajuniorgrange@gmail.com to as we hope to again be able to
are working on an exciting and creceive the link to gather in person, and we want to
educational week. Counselor/Helper hear ideas you may have, too!
Registration. Please note: Just Please email me at
Registrations for camp are due because you have been a pajuniorgrange@gmail.com so I
to me by June 1st, so don't wait - helper/counselor before does can share the Zoom link with
we can't wait to welcome all of not guarantee you will be on you! Also, in April, the JG
our Juniors back together staff this year. This is due to Committee will be hosting a
again. If camp should need to making sure that everyone 'gets workshop for anyone
move 'virtual' again, the a chance' and will be a part of an interested. This is part of the
committee is working on plans important team, ensuring that Leadership Conference series
for that, too - working with the our Juniors are both safe and being put together by Jenn
State Grange Executive having fun. Nauss. Stay tuned to the PA
Committee, we will make the Thank you to all of the Juniors State Grange e-blasts, website,
decision in May if this camp will and families who turned in to and Facebook page for more
be necessary. our first Junior Online Gathering information coming soon.
22 March/April 2021Contest Feature Save the date for: I'm really looking forward to
Each article I write, I'm going to being able to gather in-person
feature one of the State or Junior Online Gathering - again soon, but until then, I wish
National Junior Contests. You March 21st at 2pm on Zoom you all health, safety, and
may have seen me and the JG happiness.
Committee doing the same thing PA Junior Grange Camp - June
in our Facebook Group (search 27-July 3 at Sylvan Hills Christian As always, be kind, be smart, and
PA Junior Grange). With Easter Camp, Howard take care of yourself and those
coming up, here's a pretty you love,
simple recipe for Juniors and Family Festival - July 15-18 at
adults to try together for our Centre County Grange
Iced Drop Cookie Baking Fairgrounds (Water Games on Phil
Contest! (A"drop cookie" simply Friday, and Junior Activities
means it's not rolled out like throughout the weekend!)
traditional cut-out sugar cookie
- you can choose to roll them State Grange (Contests, Junior
into balls or just drop them right Jam, and Junior Degree) -
off the spoon and let them October 15-17, Junior Jam begins
spread.) These cookies can be on the 16th), Valley Forge Casino
entered at the State Session in Resort, King of Prussia
October!
No-Roll Frosted Sugar Cookies
Ingredients
For Cookies For Frosting
1 cup butter (or margarine), softened 1/2 cup butter (or margarine), softened
1 cup white sugar 3 cups powdered sugar
2 tsp vanilla 1 tsp. Vanilla extract
2 eggs 1 - 3 Tbsp. milk
2 Tbsp. milk Food coloring of choice (optional)
2 tsp baking powder
3 cups all-purpose flour
Directions
Step 1 - Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease baking sheets.
Step 2 - Cream butter and sugar together for a full three minutes. Add in vanilla, eggs, and milk - mix until combined.
Step 3 - Sift together flour and baking powder in another bowl, then slowly add to the butter/sugar mixture until the
dough comes together.
Step 4 - By spoonful, drop cookie batter onto sheets, with 2-3 inches in between cookies. Gently flatten cookie tops.
Step 5 - Bake for 8-12 minutes. Pull them from the oven when they are no longer wet and glossy on top, but before they
start to brown. (This will ensure a soft, pillowy cookie!)
Step 6 - Cool cookies directly on the sheet for 2-3 minutes until they can be transferred to a cooling rack.
Step 7 - Make frosting by creaming the butter on its own until it is smooth. Slowly add in powdered sugar one cup at a
time, alternating it with the liquids (vanilla and milk), until it has all been mixed together. For a thicker icing, add more
powdered sugar; for a thinner icing add more milk. (Add a few drops of food coloring for extra fun - just a few drops will
make light pastel Easter colors).
Step 8 - Frost your cookies - you can either slather it on with a knife or spoon, or put it in a piping bag and make cool
designs!
March/April 2021. 2324 March/April 2021
Rachel Bailey
help simplify and organize your
PA State Grange passion to achieve what you
Deaf and Community Service Director really want. I ask that you join
me virtually on May 15th at 10:00
Seeking Volunteers to serve on the a.m to attend the Deaf and
Deaf and Community Services Committee! Community Service workshop
on what community service can
Let’s talk about goals. We all have director how I could help. His look like during a pandemic and
them, set them, miss and achieve simple response was that they afterward. We will have a small
them. At the beginning of a new needed a case of water for an panel discussing creative ways to
year, we all usually come up with upcoming event and to just come get involved and stay on track.
a few we’d like to adhere to which down for a 10 minute tour of the Please feel free to submit any
usually include a form of giving facility. I ended up staying for questions or ideas ahead of time
by contacting me at
back or volunteering. We are well nearly 45 minutes as I
rachel.bailey120255@gmail.com.
on our way into 2021 and now is a encountered great conversations
great time to check how we are with other staff members there
Just a friendly reminder since we
upholding the goals we set at the and how I could continue my are approaching Family Fest, we
beginning of the year. No matter involvement. After hearing of will be collecting the following
what the project or act of service some of their needs, I learned items: aluminum soda can tabs,
may be, it can be hard holding that I could make a monthly stop used eyeglasses,
ourselves accountable to do them in with a case of water and soda caps/mittens/scarves, cancer
because as we all know, life gets for their “pay what you can” cafe, hats, ABC quilts, Dino’s operation
busy! That’s why I love setting drop off pantry items for their box’s, and Little Dresses for
myself S.M.A.R.T. goals which food drives or simply just come in Africa.
stands for: to have a
S -specific S - volunteer at JFT once per month
M -measurable M - I will volunteer once per month and plan it ahead of time on my calendar
A -attainable A - I can find one evening after work or on a weekend
R -relevant R - It is relevant to my goal of wanting to serve others
T- timely T - Although it’s an ongoing goal, I want to see me uphold my goal in a year’s time
There’s an organization called JFT cup of coffee with a veteran. I Please refer to the 2020-2021
(Just For Today) in Lemoyne. It is applied what I know about Guide to Contest and Programs
a recovery house for veterans S.M.A.R.T. goals to volunteer at or the Deaf and Community
where they can safely socialize JFT into the module above. This Service Committee with any
and access rehabilitation exercise has taught me that it’s questions.
programs. I drive past JFT on my okay to be intentional about my
way home from work every actions. Initially, practicing Be well, do good deeds and stay
evening and think “maybe S.M.A.R.T. goals can feel in touch,
tomorrow I’ll have time”. I came to transactional but in the end it
terms with myself that I would can. Rachel Bailey
have to be intentional about Email:
volunteering there. I picked up rachel.bailey120255@gmail.com
the phone and asked the program Phone: 717-816-1317
March/April
2021 25Government Matters
Carrie Nace
Novak Strategic Advisors Tas the textile liaison prior to
moving Pennsylvania and joining
the Pennsylvania House of
NSA offers comprehensive, looks to build on its successes Representatives. She served with
strategic government affairs and during the 2019-20 legislative the Speaker of the House,
grassroots solutions to real- session. The new year also Representative Sam Smith, for ten
world business needs. The firm brings changes to the legislative years as his Director of Outreach
represents a full range of Fortune branch of the Pennsylvania before moving on to run
500 companies, charitable State Grange. Representative Kate Klunk’s
organizations, and small district offices. She lives near
businesses. On their behalf, NSA Vince Phillips, who served in Gettysburg on her husband’s
has effectively secured government affairs in family farm and serves on the
procurement contracts, achieved Harrisburg for 31 years, is Adams County Economic Alliance
legislative victories, educated beginning a much-deserved board as well as the True North
leaders about clients’ issues, and new journey of retirement. The Wellness board.
developed relationships with Grange will be forever grateful
government entities. for the knowledge and NSA’s success is directly related to
dedication Vince brought to the unique strategic government
The NSA team is senior-level and Grange in advancing our affairs and grassroots approaches
connected. We know what works legislative priorities. that rely on consensus building,
because we have 100 plus years of good relationships and creating
experience wrapped up in one Novak Strategic Advisors (NSA) cohesive coalitions on behalf of
proven team with connections at was founded in 2001 by Alan our clients. NSA is truly honored
every government level in every Novak. Known for advising to be able to represent rural
region of the commonwealth. Governors Tom Ridge, Mark Pennsylvania through the
The right relationships in the Schwieker, and Tom Corbett, as Pennsylvania State Grange.
right places are NSA’s greatest well as the campaign of
asset. Add to that action, timing, President George W. Bush and AGRICULTURE STARTS NEW
and instinct, and you have the the subsequent Bush/Cheney YEAR WITH A BANG!
key ingredients to a successful transition team as part of the January marked the start of
government affairs campaign. White House Fellows legislative activity for the 2021-22
Our legislative, regulatory, Commission, today Alan is session of the PA General
procurement, and public policy associated with his bipartisan Assembly. Agricultural legislation
successes are a direct result of approach to solutions and his started with a great deal of
real relationships enhanced by advocacy for civility in momentum starting with a
our team’s knowledge and honed government. Carrie Nace, a January 27 meeting of the PA
by intuition and experience. Senior Associate at Novak House Agriculture & Rural Affairs
Strategic Advisors, joined the Committee. At this meeting,
Pennsylvania State Grange firm in 2019. Nace brings 23 several bills of importance to the
Looks to a New Legislative years of legislative experience Agricultural Community and to
Session with New Representation to the role of Pennsylvania State the Pennsylvania State Grange
s the sun sets on a very Grange’s new legislative were approved.
challenging 2020, the director in 2020. Carrie is a
Pennsylvania State Grange now graduate of Juniata College in Agritourism Liability
Huntingdon, PA and served in House Bill 101 advanced by Rep.
the Hong Kong Economic & Barb Gleim (R-Cumberland) would
Trade Office extend limited liability
26 March/April 2021protection for farmers seeking to Liability Protection for Food (presents another try by the
engage in agritourism or agri- Donations The House General Assembly to allow milk
entertainment. What this means Agriculture & Rural Affairs haulers to use Interstates to
is that farmers would be Committee also voted 25-0 for transport their fluid milk during
protected from frivolous lawsuits House Bill 187 sponsored by Rep. weather emergencies. It is the
where an injury occurs from a David Rowe (R-Union/Snyder) second go-round for legislation
known hazard inherent to a which protects those donating (HB 915) which passed the House
farm. This would include food to food banks from liability 136-61 and the Senate 32-18 but
examples like someone suing was vetoed by Governor Tom
because their child was injured Wolf because of opposition by
climbing over a fence into an area PennDOT which felt that this bill
with large animals. The wording would weaken Pennsylvania’s
is identical to House Bill 1348 ability to cope with extreme
also introduced by Rep. Gleim in . weather conditions. Both of
the last session. those votes were veto-proof but
With the COVID-19 Crisis, there was not an override
HB 101 requires farmers offering millions nationally lost their jobs, attempt made. The vote was
agritourism/agri-entertainment either during the business shut-
provide notices to visitors of the down period for all but “life- The argument advanced by HB
possible risks they take on when sustaining” businesses or 186 advocates including the
going to a working farm. It does specifically hard-hit industries Pennsylvania State Grange is that
not shield farmers from lawsuits such as food and hospitality. This cows don’t really care about
where there is negligence on the resulted in unprecented demand weather emergencies. They
farmer’s part, for example not for food banks and a radically produce milk. Period. Farmers
correcting a known safety increased need for on the other hand must move the
problem such as lack of fencing food. Although the Federal milk somewhere because of
where a visitor is likely to get Government helped with passage limited on-farm storage
hurt. of laws like the CARES Act, food capacity. If it cannot be hauled in
otherwise donated was held back a timely way, the milk will have to
Last session, HB 1348 passed the because of lawsuit fears. be dumped. These delays would
House but in the waning days of come from milk haulers being
the legislative session, its Specific to this legislation is an forced to use secondary roads in
tlanguage was blended into a OK given to food which has a order to pick up or deliver milk.
larger bill dealing with COVID-19 ‘best if used by’ label for The committee vote was not
liability. This meant Democrats freshness. Often, this label is unanimous. All GOP members
who originally supported misunderstood to mean that the voted yes. Five Democrats voted
agritourism liability protection product use has expired. HB 187 no. Grange position: Strongly
voted against the new legislation clarifies that difference and support passage of HB 187 and
which was ultimately vetoed by allows donations of safe food that support a veto override if the
Governor Tom Wolf. would otherwise be destroyed. Governor vetoes it again.
Grange position: Supports just as
The January 27, 2021, vote by the we did HB 2477 in the last session The committee vote was not
House Agriculture & Rural of the General Assembly. unanimous. All GOP members
Affairs Committee was 25-0. voted yes. Five Democrats voted
Grange position: A top priority Milk Hauling House Bill 186 no. Grange position: Strongly
for the Pennsylvania State sponsored by former Majority support passage of HB 187 and
Grange, this issue commanded Chair of the House Agriculture & support a veto override if the
more lobbying time than any Rural Affairs Committee Rep. Governor vetoes it again.
other issue except for seeking Marty Causer (R-
universal access to high-speed Cameron/Potter/McKean)
Broadband March/April 2021 27Increase Taxes
Increasing tax rates for the Those seeking additional announced that it wants to
Personal Income Tax (PIT), the revenue have had more luck with charge tolls on numbers of
PA Sales Tax, and Business ending some exemptions to the high-trafficked bridges.
Income Taxes are not the most Sales Tax. Recently, PA extended Another six-percent hike in
popular options. the reach of the Sales Tax to Turnpike tolls went into effect
smokeless tobacco and vaping January 1, 2021. Cut Spending in
which brought in an estimated Non-Entitlement Programs
$129.4 million in FY 2019-20
according to the Department of
Revenue. Two more examples
are a 12-percent tax on retail
sales of fireworks when the law
Even in difficult budget times, was changed to allow additional
politicians have tried to avoid types of fireworks to be sold and
increasing these general taxes as extending the Sales Tax to
much as possible. Since the Internet retail sales. Other
1990s, legislators have tried exemptions to the Sales Tax
eliminating the property tax by seem immune. No Sales Tax on Does that sound like a clear and
increasing the rates of the PIT food and clothing appears to present danger for PA
and Sales Tax to make up for the have staying power that has Department of Agriculture
lost school revenue. They have been proposed for more than 20 funding? How about Penn State
not succeeded. years and those exemptions are Ag Research and Extension?
still here. How about the University of
Raising corporate taxes is also a Pennsylvania College of
non-starter since PA already is a Veterinary Sciences? Does that
state with high taxes for sound like no money for
businesses. Adding to the tax hardwoods development, Open
burden for them makes PA less Dairy Shows, etc.?
attractive for new businesses to
come into the state and for Divert Money from Dedicated
existing firms to stay here. Funds
There are well over 50
Closing loopholes and Dedicated Funds (also called
exemptions are another way to Special Funds) established for
increase revenue. Democrats Increase Fees specific purposes. The thinking
and Governor Wolf have Generally, state fees for of some is that when a family is
suggested eliminating the so- professional licenses are in a financial pinch, it goes into
called Delaware Loophole where increasing and the state would savings. In other words, it is OK
businesses domiciled in like to increase fees in several to raid Dedicated Funds if you
Delaware are not taxed by PA for non-professional areas. As an need the money. Unfortunately,
corporate income earned in example, because the PA there are too many examples:
PA. NOTE that the Business Department of Agriculture’s The big attempted raid on a
Community bridles at the word oversight of dog licenses is Dedicated Fund in 2020 was the
‘loophole’ since it implies some underfunded, there are Governor’s unsuccessful
type of skirting legal legislative attempts to increase proposal to take $204 million
obligations. They say that these the fee for a dog license. In
are legitimate legislated January, PennDOT
provisions in the Tax Code that
businesses are permitted to use.
28 March/April 2021You can also read
