[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 156 (Thursday, December 2, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2048]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   IN HONOR OF THE 125TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE CONNECTICUT STATE GRANGE

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                           HON. JOE COURTNEY

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, December 2, 2010

  Mr. COURTNEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the Connecticut 
State Grange on their 125th anniversary.
  The National Grange, also known as the Order of Patrons of Husbandry, 
is the nation's oldest national agricultural organization, with local 
chapter established in 2,700 local communities in 40 states. The 
Connecticut Grange has been one of the most active, continuously 
operating since 1885. In Connecticut the Grange has been an integral 
part of our state's efforts to preserve farmland, support rural 
communities and maintain the idyllic charm that is such an important 
part of New England's past.
  The Grange has always welcomed farming families to involve themselves 
in the betterment of rural life and to contribute to its welfare by 
talent, thought, strength and willingness to labor heartily with fellow 
Patrons for the general good of the order and of mankind. The Grange's 
focus on community service, family activities and agricultural causes 
reflects well on the countless farmers who strive to preserve America's 
pastoral traditions. In eastern Connecticut, the Grange has a long and 
storied past supporting communities, maintaining our rural heritage and 
promoting the agricultural ideals that serve as the backbone of our 
country.
  Not only is the Grange the oldest and one of the strongest farm 
organizations in America, it is the only farmers' fraternity in the 
world. The precepts of this farm-family fraternity are fourfold: (1) We 
should work toward a more prosperous agriculture; (2) Improve practical 
education; (3) Super-size community life and citizenship; and (4) Build 
higher ideals of manhood and womanhood among ourselves. With a strong 
faith in God, a nurturing hope, a focus on charity, and faithfulness to 
duty, the Granger continues to make rural life more desirable.
  Members of the Grange have adopted the following creed; ``United by 
the strong and faithful tie of agriculture, we mutually resolve to 
labor for the good of our order, our country and mankind.'' Madam 
Speaker, I believe those are words we can all live by, and so I ask my 
colleagues to join with me, and the people of Connecticut, in 
recognizing the Connecticut State Grange on their 125th anniversary.

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