| FEBRUARY 14, 2012 -- Monday, February 13, 2012 is a date that will go down in history for Wolcott Grange. It's the date that began a new chapter in the community as the family-oriented group reorganized. It's the date that the Connecticut State Grange reinstated their Charter.
There was excitement in the air as Connecticut State Grange President Jody Cameron presented the Charter to Henry Ouimet, who was elected as President of the revitalized Grange.
"This was without a doubt one the most exciting evenings for the Grange," said Cameron. "I want personally thank Mr. Ouimet for all of his hard work in making this reorganization possible. His efforts have guaranteed that Wolcott Grange will be serving the community and all of its citizens for many, many years to come. You can't do anything but celebrate knowing the impact this energetic group is going to have; I can?t wait to see what they have in store for the community."
18 new members were recognized and initiated to helm Wolcott Grange during its revitalization. Jeff Barnes, Connecticut State Grange Vice President and Chairman of the Grange Growth Team, performed part of the evening's ceremonies. Over 40 people were in attendance, cheering on the new members as they looked forward to a positive future.
Barnes knew that an infusion of energy was needed to bring Wolcott Grange back to its community service roots, and sees good momentum moving forward. "This is exactly the catalyst we needed. It will inspire all of the Granges in Connecticut to grow," Barnes said.
Wolcott Grange was originally formed March 17, 1909. Their Grange Hall was built in the 1920s as part of the Wolcott Green Historic District. Through the years the group presented floats in local parades, hosted pancake breakfasts, supported its agricultural roots, presented dictionaries to local school children, and was well-known for their delicious Dairy Dinners. The organization grew quickly, at one time having more than 200 members. But time took its toll, and despite all of the Grange's community-service work, members were growing older and tiring.
Thanks to the hard work and dedication of Ouimet and community members he recruited to become a part of the revitalization core, the new Grangers are now reinvesting in the pride and future of their organization. Membership growth and building partnerships within the community are first on the priority list.
According to Cameron, the new Wolcott Grange is seeking local-minded people who would like to make a difference in their community. "This is a great opportunity for members of the community to be part of a collective voice that betters the community for all citizens," he said.
Wolcott Grange will be meeting on the fourth Monday of each month at 7:30 PM at the Grange Hall, located at 313 Bound Line Road, Wolcott. Their next meeting will be held on March 26th, and will be the installation of the new officers. For membership information, please contact Cameron at 860-759-2326 or via e-mail at president@ctstategrange.org.
Information on the nearly 60 Community Granges in Connecticut can be found on the Connecticut State Grange website at http://www.CTStateGrange.org. |
