[Congressional Record Volume 163, Number 214 (Friday, December 29, 2017)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1761]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   NATIONAL GRANGE 150TH ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. GREG WALDEN

                               of oregon

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, December 29, 2017

  Mr. WALDEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to say congratulations to the 
National Grange on 150 years of service to rural America, and to thank 
Susan Noah, President of the Oregon State Grange, and her husband, 
Mark, for their continued leadership in my home state.
  In Oregon, we understand how important it is to support our rural 
communities. The National Grange has been a steadfast partner in this 
effort. With over 167 Granges and 5,000 fraternal members in Oregon--
and several thousand affiliate members--the National Grange is a strong 
advocate for rural communities in our great state of Oregon and across 
the country.
  The Grange has been essential in the development of rural America 
during three centuries: during the 19th Century, they advocated for 
legislative protection for farmers through the Granger Laws; in the 
20th Century, they promoted research and education to improve 
agriculture through the Cooperative Extension Service and Land Grant 
Colleges while working to expand mail delivery and electricity to rural 
areas; and in the 21st Century, they have encouraged the expansion of 
broadband internet service.
  The Grange has provided a megaphone for the voice of rural 
communities throughout the country. The effort of this organization to 
bring people from across the country and across the political spectrum 
together in support of rural America is truly inspiring.
  Being a champion for rural America is an endeavor that transcends 
party lines and benefits all Americans, not just those living in rural 
communities. The Grange has led the effort in this, with an emphasis on 
service to the local community and volunteerism to improve the quality 
of life and economic well-being of rural America.
  On behalf of rural communities in Oregon and across the country, and 
the entire United States Congress, I ask my colleagues to join me in 
congratulating the National Grange on 150 years of unwavering service 
to rural America.

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