MAPLEWOOD GRANGE, THE FAMILY PLACE . . HALL RENTALS, AURORA / CANBY, OR

April Minutes

4/28/2024

 
​Meeting started at 4:35pm
Members present: Dan & JoAnn Keeley, Mindy Ferris, Sandy Shew, Troy Bayless
JoAnn Keeley will be acting secretary because Betty Chipps is absent.
Since we didn’t have a quorum we can’t vote or approve business.
Minutes were sent by email to members previous to the meeting.  Those present did not have any changes.
Committee Reports:
Dan:      Hall - There are 7 party rentals on the books as of today.
Agriculture - Ag Fest in Salem went well.  The state grange booth was busy.  There were quite a few people overall at the event.
                Education – There was a teacher at Canby High School that received an award for excellence.
                Legislative – Dan encouraged everyone to study their voter’s pamphlets and vote.
                Pomona – There were over 60 resolutions presented to Pomona  from individual granges and some that are sunsetting this year that will be voted on at the State Grange Convention in June.  Between two different days the members were able to go through all of them so they will be ready for consideration at the convention.
                Pomona will also be selling cookies at the 2024 Clackamas County Fair.  Pam Furlan will send out a request soon for help to prepare the dough.
JoAnn: Scholarship – There were no applications received for our scholarships.  Next year I suggest we change our requirements to include a broader range of college studies &/or applicant groups.
                Cemetery – Dan weed sprayed the entire cemetery.  JoAnn sprayed around each stone to kill the grass which will make it easier to edge.  She also reminded everyone the cleanup days are May 16th and May 18 starting at 10am.
Quarterly Report – Maplewood paid $225.  The office is asking for a copy of our bi-laws.
Treasurer’s Report – Vicki had sent it by email to members previous to this meeting.  Those present did not have any changes.  Report will be filed for audit.
Roberta has asked for a $15 refund to pay for her entrance into Ag Fest.
Mindy Ferris gave $50 to JoAnn to give to Vicki for her 2024 dues.
Old Business:  Cleaning the hall day is scheduled for June 9th.  Everyone that can is asked to come at 10am.  Dan will send out an email with a list of potential jobs so everyone can come prepared. The members present decided on potluck for lunch rather than pizza for that day.
                State Convention – Mindy is interested in participating in the 6th Degree program.  Dan has agreed to be 1st delegate.  JoAnn has offered to be 2nd delegate.  We will ask the full membership by email  if they agree.
New Business:  Redland Grange is interested in our old floor buffer machine.  The members present agreed to give it to them since we no longer have use for it.
Next meeting will be June 9th after our cleaning time.
Meeting adjourned at 5:25pm.
 
 
 
 
 

March Minutes

3/24/2024

 
​Maplewood Grange Meeting                                           MARCH 24, 2024 @ 3:00pm                   
Maplewood Grange #662 general meeting was called to order at 3:00 PM, by Master / President, Dan Keeley, on Sunday, March 24, 2024 with the  “Opening of the Grange”  reading (downstairs).   The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
 
Visitation:  (none)              Guest:   (none)
Members acting Pro-Temp:  Don Sether, Master (part-time, while Dan was present with potential renter) .
 
ROLL CALL  (Secretary):  Members present:  9                     (Mandatory – Quorum  “7”)
Dan Keeley, JoAnn Keeley, Don Sether, Roberta Elders, Vicki Pounds, Sandy Shew, Mindy Ferris and Betty Chipps (late arrival).
 
PROPOSALS for MEMBERSHIP  (Dan Keeley) – none
 
MINUTES  (Secretary):  The February 25, 2024 Grange Meeting Minutes were emailed March 20th to members.   Dan inquired of members were there any comments, hearing none: 
Don Sether moved to approve the minutes as presented, Mindy Ferris seconded, motion carried, VSO (voting sign of the order).



COMMITTEE REPORTS
HALL REPORT  (Dan Keeley) –9 party rentals scheduled. Chaps, Gamers and Zumba still have long term contracts.
            HALL PROJECTS - in priority order  (Dan Keeley):  
Small meter base removed and roof patched
Insulate crawl space under bathrooms (1/2 done)
Northeast side roof needs additional screws 
Kitchen counters need refinished
Kitchen needs exhaust hood and fan
Repainting under eves of hall 
Kitchen and dining hall floors need refinished
AGRICULTURE  (Dan Keeley) –  Hazelnut blight turned out to be locally bred. Growers planting resistant trees  in heavily blighted orchards put extreme selection pressure on the blight and it does what  diseases do, it evolved.
EDUCATION  (Dan Keeley) – Sorry,  busy this week - No report.
LEGISLATIVE  (Dan Keeley) – Short session is over and measure 110 has been extensively remodeled. Private  possession of controlled substances is again a crime, albeit a specially designed misdemeanor.  Cities and counties are being encouraged (but not required) to use the threat of jail time as a  lever to get addicts into treatment. Law would then allow (but again not require) the  conviction to be expunged from the persons record. Additional money was also provided for  treatment. We will see how that part goes. 
Visitation at Redland – Great pot luck but meeting a bit long. Several resolutions debated and  sent on to Pomona. Pomona will schedule an extra work day for the legislative committee early  in April. Around 50 resolutions expected for review (Dan taking 35).
Clackamas POMONA Grange  (Dan Keeley) sponsors a CANDIDATES’ FORUM on Sunday, May 5th, Abernethy Grange: 
            1:00 PM         Nacho Bar (Cinco de Mayo), Cookies and beverages
            2:00 PM         Candidate Statements - bring your Questions!
SCHOLARSHIP COMMITTEE (JoAnn Keeley) – Schools should be turning in applications:  deadlines:  North Marion (April 7th),  Canby (April 15th),  Sandy Shew is interested in having the Applicants come and present their program.  JoAnn advised Committee will decide before April 20th.
COMMUNITY SERVICE  (JoAnn Keeley) 
Veteran Village donations are due today, can bring into Maplewood just let Dan/JoAnn know before April 27th Pomona meeting at Abernethy Grange. 
Portland Rescue Mission (PRM) deadline is end of May.
IOOF / Meridian Cemetery Clean-Up 10:00 AM – MAY 14 and/or MAY 16, or MAY 18th
 - Dan has sprayed weeds around the Cemetery.  JoAnn will check out headstone grasses.
Volunteers 5/14 & 5/16:  Betty, Don, Roberta  – bring knee pads, garden cleaning  tools (knee pads, claw, nippers, wire-brush, 5-gal bucket), hat & sunscreen protection.
 
Roberta Elders is interested in Guide Dogs for the Blind (near Boring) – they take pups and go walk in the country, and other settings to train them.  The dogs are trained to aid the blind or as health monitors for their owners.  Roberta attended one tour at the Adult Center, main  event usually at 10:00 AM.
COMMUNICATIONS  (Betty Chipps)
Maplewood visitation to Redland Gr. was March 14th.  President (& Legislative Chair),
Georgene Barragan filled the missing stations of Pomona, Ceres and Flora with, respectively, Joyce Parker, JoAnn Keeley and Betty Chipps - I was impressed by this.
 
TREASURER’S REPORT  (Vicki Pounds)
The Treasurer’s Report for the March 24, 2024 Maplewood Grange meeting was emailed 03/21/2024.   The opening balance, as of February 23, was $12,,202.22 and the ending balance on March 21, 2024  was $12,760.72.  Hearing no discussion, the report will be ‘filed for Audit.’ 
UNFINISHED BUSINESS  (Dan Keeley) – Spring Cleaning day


JoAnn Keeley motioned to have June 9th as Spring Cleaning Day (meet at 10 AM and bring in lunch), Don Sether seconded, motion carries.
 
 
NEW BUSINESS  (Dan Keeley)


BILLS presented to Treasurer – Reimbursement to Dan Keeley:
02/27/2024 All Systems Heating                $  350.00 
                        (furnace & heat pump tune-up:  filter can rusted)
02/27/2024 Paint for Dance Hall Lamps           9.99
02/28/2024 Lamp Cord for Dance Hall Lamps 10.27 (lamps-rewired)
03/09/2024 Lawn work and dish soap               12.98
03/20/2024 Dimmer for Ball Room Light           25.35
03/20/2024 Diesel for mower 3.5 gal@$4.05   14.17
   TOTAL $  422.76 
additional:   Valley AG (2 bags fertilizer)           44.00
Insurance  -   $ 3,159.00 (standard expenditure)
Mindy Ferris commented State Farm has lapsed policies on Granges.

Don Sether moved to pay the bills, Betty seconded (no further discussion), motion carries,.
Grange Hall Speaker, one more being repaired, cost TBA.

JoAnn moved to pre-approve the cost of Speaker, Betty seconded, motion carries.


  1. Oregon State Grange election of Officers  (Dan Keeley) –  Final Preferential Ballots were distributed.  All members present can vote as no memberships have been canceled - thus all are in good standing. Grange Election BULLETIN was available.
- JoAnn Keeley and Betty Chipps tallied (via blank sheet)
- Certified Report (JoAnn & Betty jointly) completed and seal affixed  before mailing.
 
  1. Grange Meeting Day –  Is a change possible for meeting earlier in the month?
    TO DO:  Need to have same discussion with Chaps and Petticoats (who currently meet on 3rd Sunday/month) AND bring findings to next meeting.

  2. APRIL is Grange Month (Dan Keeley) – any ideas?
    JoAnn said the Grange has a reputation of being Agricultural.  Don Sether says the Grange started FFA and 4H - originally.  Mindy Ferris said we could buy a banner showing our support for FFA. 
Mindy thinks we’re between two communities:  Canby & Aurora, Clackamas / Marion


Mindy motioned to buy an FFA banner and post out front to show our community support. 


JoAnn will ask North Marion and Canby Schools:  how can the Grange support FFA?


  1. Mission Statement  (Don Sether & Betty Chipps) – Our Mission should define what sets the Grange apart from other industries.

    “The Grange is a family-oriented organization with non-partisan grassroots (since 1867) in rural communities all across America.  We are (a Fraternal Order) a group of men and women with interests in aiding the community and  helping each member reach their full potential as a person and a leader.  Through service, education and agricultural awareness, we labor for the good of the Order, our country and mankind.”
We heartily endorse the motto, “In essentials, unity; in non-essentials, liberty;  in all things, charity.”
 
JoAnn so moved to accept our Mission Statement, Roberta seconded, motion carries, VSO.
 
  1. AG Fest is April 27 & April 28  – Sign up / Volunteer in our Grange interactive booth at the Oregon State Fair.  Call OSG office and sign-up:  503-316-0106.
MEMBERS SICK OR IN DISTRESS:  (none)
 
GOOD OF THE ORDER  (none)
 
CLOSING:  Meeting adjourned at 5:46 PM with “Closing of the Grange” reading. 
 NEXT MEETING:   April 28, 2024 at 4:30pm

February Minutes 2024

2/25/2024

 
​ 
Maplewood Grange #662 general meeting was called to order at 3:40 PM, by Master,/President, Dan Keeley, on Sunday, February 25, 2024 with the  “Opening of the Grange” stations (upstairs).   The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
 
Visitation:  (none)              Guest:   Alina Blankenship, Sky Guardian Falconer
Members acting Pro-Temp:  Gatekeeper; JoAnn Keeley
 
ROLL CALL  (Secretary):  Members present:  8                                               (Mandatory – Quorum  “7”)
Dan Keeley, JoAnn Keeley, Don Sether, Roberta Elders, Vicki Pounds, Betty Chipps, Troy Bayless, Sandy Shew.
 
PROPOSALS for MEMBERSHIP  (Dan Keeley) – none
 
MINUTES  (Secretary):  The January 14, 2024 Grange Meeting Minutes are yet to be completed.   Betty received  “20 lashes with a wet noodle”  from Grange Master. 


SECRETARY COMMUNICATIONS  (Betty Chipps) – No report.


COMMITTEE REPORTS
 
HALL REPORT  (Dan Keeley) – Eight party rentals scheduled.  Chaps, Gamers and Zumba still have long term contracts.   Recent rentals have gone fairly well except for a glitter issue recently. 
 
I asked our insurance agent, Sean Connor, about the advisability of waiving renters insurance in favor of beefing up Maplewood’s policy.  He said ‘very bad idea.’  While he has some business interests to look out for I think I trust his judgment in this case.  His number one rationale was renters should have some personal exposure to worry about when bad behavior occurs.
 
Renter didn’t quite turn the faucet off, in the storage room, and the drip caused a puddle.  Please keep an eye out for faucet leaks in the storage room, when visiting the hall.  Also, lights have been left on several times lately.
 
HALL PROJECTS - in priority order  (Dan Keeley):  
.
Insulate crawl space under bathrooms (pipes under both restrooms have been insulated)
Northeast side roof needs additional screws  (nailed through shingles but not boards)
Kitchen counters need refinished
Kitchen needs exhaust hood and fan
Repainting under eaves of hall
Kitchen and dining hall floors need refinished
 
 
AGRICULTURE  (Dan Keeley) – Federal farm bill has been extended through 2024.  Work on the replacement 5-year bill is proceeding slowly with considerable controversy.  Some Oregon
legislators propose bypassing land use rules to expand urban growth boundaries in the name of affordable housing.  This is bad for agriculture partly due to loss of farmable acres but also due to increased traffic and conflicts in the rural areas.  Farm Bureau and Thousand Friends of Oregon are opposing HB 1530 and HB 1537 (governors housing bill) for these and other reasons.  Grange has policy and opposition, as well.
 
Don Sether reported Commodities horrible as nothing is being exported out of the United States.


COMMUNITY SERVICE  (JoAnn Keeley):


  1. Maplewood Grange SCHOLARSHIP Committee (JoAnn Keeley) –
 (Committee members: JoAnn -Chair, Judi Aus and Sheri Chandra)  
- $1,000 will be awarded to a graduating senior with plans to enroll in an Agricultural related field.
-  Recipients have been requested to present their essa/programy to the Exec. Gr.  Board.
- Applications turned in for North Marion and Canby High Schools
- School Award deadlines are April 7 and April 15.
-  a Committee member will attend the Award Ceremony.

Grange is welcome to go to the Scholarship Award ceremonies, which happen before Graduation.


  1. Clothing, Toiletry and Blanket /Sheet Donations – PRM and Vet’s Village.
    mark donations ‘PRM’ (‘Portland Rescue Mission’).- collecting Summer Clothing donations toward the end of May.
    NOTE:  Please MARK, in a separate bag, donations for Veterans’ Village (these would be such items as:  dental items, cleaning supplies, hygiene items, warm clothing, and Gas Cards).

  2. IOOF Cemetery Clean-Up:  Plan for warmer weather, possibly June.


EDUCATION  (Dan Keeley) – Jessica Grose, Oregonian Live
“According to the Aspen Institute’s Project Play, in fall 2022, the average amount spent on a single child’s primary grade sport per season was $833. For families with household incomes at or above $150,000 a year, the average is $2,068.  Around half of those who’ve played or have children who’ve played youth sports say they’ve struggled to pay for it, according to a 2023 Project Play report.”
 
That doesn’t include the difficulty or expenses parents have getting their kids to practices, particularly in families where all the adults work outside the home.  Maybe grade school kids should go pro now also?
 
LEGISLATIVE  (Dan Keeley) – Legislative short session is about ⅔ over.  As expected, dealing with addictive drugs is a top issue.  The Republican caucus has proposed essentially a straight up repeal of Measure 110, with the exception of cannabis remaining legal.  The argument is that addicts will not seek treatment unless compelled to (in jail) and that country health departments will do a better job of treating addicts than the state has.  Some opposition from District Attorneys and prison officials, mostly complaining they do not have the capacity or budget to go back to the war on drugs.
 
Democratic caucus has proposed more modest adjustments centered on making public consumption of most addictive drugs illegal similar to alcohol consumption, accelerating establishment of treatment centers and non-police agency response to drug violations and overdoses.  The objective is to get addicts into treatment programs without a criminal record that limits employment.  Opposition argues that the state has had plenty of time to get treatment programs running and has failed.
 
My opinion is that addicts have to want help for any program to be successful.  The main question is whether jail or counseling will be more effective in persuading folks and what to do with them in the meanwhile.
 
Troy Bayless addressed ‘wrap’ on personal employment for drug violations is ineffective as there are always get-arounds.  Counseling should be effective.
 
Troy inquired:  was legislation proposed for repair of own Farm Equipment?  
Discussed:  QVC Code supports ability to fix own equipment - issue is copyright information.
 
MEMBERSHIP REPORT  (Betty Chipps) – Membership dues for 2024 is $50. 
Don Sether gave a $50 check to the Treasurer.
 
POMONA REPORT –  Don Sether advised Clackamas POMONA Grange prompted RESOLUTIONS need to be presented before April 2024.
 
YOUTH  REPORT (Mindy Ferriss) – (absent)
 
TREASURER’S REPORT  (Vicki Pounds)
 
The Treasurer’s Report for the February 25, 2024 Maplewood Grange meeting was emailed 02/23/2024.   The opening balance, as of January 12, was $14,244.05 and the ending balance on February 22, 2024  was $12,481.52.  Hearing no discussion, the report will be ‘filed for Audit.’ 
 
Vicki reminded the membership that Grange Dues ($50) are due.  Thus far I have only 3 checks..
 
TABLED BUSINESS  (Dan Keeley) – None
 
UNFINISHED BUSINESS (Dan Keeley):  Website Host  – Weebly


Are we willing to continue to pay for our website ($211 per  year from Weebly) or go with a smaller, plainer one on the National Grange site using WordPress?
 
Pros / Cons:   National Grange supports WordPress - it’s simple, no pictures & no videos.
Troy asked, has Weebly generated rentals?   Dan said Weebly does allow tracking - has generated approximately 25% of rental inquiries
 
Dad advised OK to pay $211 since Weebly was pre pre-approved vendor.
 
 
NEW BUSINESS
  1. BILLS presented to Treasurer – Reimbursement to Dan Keeley:
    01/21/24         Bathroom deodorant                       $    7.49
    02/02/24         Electrical test pen                    21.99
02/02/24         Switch                                          4.98
02/04/24         Janitorial Supplies & rug pad  22.58
02/16/24         Dimmer for ballroom                25.35
02/17/24         Electrical for Dimmer                 6.78
Sub-Total                 $  89.17
l           Spot Lamp - Disco ball           
Additiona       Fixture                                                    61.84
expenses       Mop                                            24.00
            presented      Misc                                            21.97
                        TOTAL                                              $196.98
Don Sether moved and Betty Chipps seconded to pay the bills, motion carried. VSO


  1. Mission Statement?  Don Sether rescheduled for next month,

  2. Maplewood Visitation  (Dan/JoAnn Keeley, Betty Chipps and Sandy Shew will attend).
    Invitation for Maplewood Grange members to VISIT Redland Grange #796 on Thursday, March 14, 2024.  (potluck 6:00 pm, meeting 7:00 pm) 

 
MEMBERS SICK or IN DISTRESS (Dan Keeley) – none noted.
 
GOOD OF THE ORDER  (Dan Keeley)
Whether you think you can or think you can’t , you’re right. (Henry Ford)
 
GUEST:  Alina Blankenship, Sky Guardian Falconry located in West Linn (503) 969-6119.
([email protected])            (www.GuardianFalcon.com)
 
Falconry is the hunting of wild animals in their natural habitat by means of a trained Bird of Prey..  Landowners/Facilities are provided habitat training as well.
 
Mutually benefiting the Urban / Suburban environments with the bird-of-prey:: 
  • thieving squirrels hunted in nut orchards
  • pesky birds cleared from vineyards
  • remove nuisance critters/birds from recreational areas
  • Grange, as landowner, would benefit by hunted rodents in the field/yard.
 
A business will provide a habitat (nesting home) for the raptor, and through normal course, the natural hunter will prevent damage to crops, orchards, or business grounds.  Examples:   the Army Corp of Engineers benefits by the hunting of voles; the hawk would flush out squirrels in a Filbert orchard
 
 
NEXT MEETING – March 24, 2024 at 3:30 PM. 
 
CLOSING – Meeting was adjourned, by Dan Keeley, at 4:16 PM.



                                                                                    Respectfully Submitted,
 
Betty Chipps
                                                                                    Secretary

November Minutes

11/26/2023

 
Text coming!

October minutes

10/22/2023

 
Maplewood Grange #662 general meeting was called to order at  3:32 PM, by Master,/President, Dan Keeley, on Sunday, October 22, 2023 with the  “Opening of the Grange” reading (downstairs).   The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
 
Visitation: (none)    Guest:   Sheri Chandra  (Chinchilla Show contact)    

Members acting Pro-Temp:  Betty Chipps, Gatekeeper; JoAnn Keeley, Chaplain
 
ROLL CALL  (Secretary):  Members present:  6 + 1 (new) = 7                      (Mandatory – Quorum  “7”)
Dan Keeley, JoAnn Keeley, Don Sether, Roberta Elders, Betty Chipps, Vicki Pounds, and Sheri Chandra (after membership approval).  Welcome, Sheri!
 
PROPOSALS for MEMBERSHIP  (Dan Keeley) – Sheri Chandra met Grange members at our last meeting on October 1st and she desires membership. 

Dan asked for discussion before we vote, several of us already chatted with Sheri last meeting.  . 
Members were asked to vote to accept Sheri as a new Maplewood Grange member - vote was unanimous, membership ‘approved’, VSO (voting sign of the order).
 
MINUTES  (Secretary):  The October 1, 2023 Grange Meeting Minutes were not yet completed - two sets of minutes to be approved next meeting. .
 
COMMUNICATIONS  (Secretary, Betty Chipps) – two Flyers were presented from other Granges:
  1. Springwater invitation to Visitation of the Clackamas Pomona Grange on OCT 23rd, 6:30pm potluck, 7:30 pm meeting..  Donation request:
     bring new socks for their ‘Socktober Collection to stock the Estacada School Clothes Closet AND non-perishable food for the Estacada Area Food Bank.

  2. Garfield Grange is hosting the 4th Quarter Clackamas Pomona Grange meeting OCT 28th (the same day as Maplewood’s Harvest Festival).  9:30 AM meeting, Noon - lunch served $5, then 1:00 PM Lecturer’s Program AND bring your pumpkin, - for the Pumpkin Contest, to be held afterwards.
 
SECRETARY REPORT-  (Betty Chipps):  No report.


COMMITTEE REPORTS
 
HALL  (Dan Keeley) – Four party rentals scheduled.  Chaps, Gamers and Zumba still have long term contracts.  Dan requests:  Please observe on Tuesday’s are Trash bins still full?  IF so, then please call Dan and report our bins were not emptied.

Situation:  PGE informed the electrical wires, on top of the roof, are cracked and must be corrected.  Whiskey Hill Electrical has agreed to do the electrical wire repair albeit at a higher price ($2,500). – should be done in a couple weeks (after the Grange Harvest Fest.).. 
 
Dan asked does PGE charge for two meters?  Yes, JoAnn reviewed the bill and noted one ‘basic’ charge of $20 is assessed for each meter.  An additional misc. power of 4.49 ( total $24.49) was noted.
Dan will inquire whether one (1)  meter can be removed.  Don Sether motioned and Roberta seconded to access the wires and submit a budget, motion carries, VSO.
 
HALL PROJECTS - in priority order  (Dan Keeley):  
Museum could use some refreshing next..
Repair electrical service wires
Northeast side roof needs additional screws
Kitchen counters need refinished
Kitchen needs exhaust hood and fan
Repainting under eaves of hall
Kitchen and dining hall floors need refinished


 
AGRICULTURE  (Dan Keeley):
 
Good News – Harvest pretty much over with and appears to have been a safe one.  Hazelnuts will have a record high crop and prices are edging back up to maybe reasonable levels (and better than average).  Oregon has selected a new director for the Department of Agriculture.  Alexis Taylor has considerable experience in the Department of Agriculture and most AG groups are cheering the choice.
Bad news is getting depressing – giving it a rest this month!

COMMUNITY SERVICE  (JoAnn Keeley):


  1. IOOF Meridian Cemetery Headstones – at the last cemetery maintenance, Dan had sprayed on a moss repellent treatment for cleaning moss from some of the headstones (Though moss-out is not recommended for headstones aged or in poor quality or with etched glass finish.)  The treatment worked well to shortcut the headstone cleaning job. 
JoAnn moved to purchase the moss repellent product for use to clean headstones in the future, Don Sether seconded, motion carries, VSO.


  1. Clothing, Toiletry and Blanket Donations – deadline is November 26 to bring these items and those for Veterans’ Village to the Grange and JoAnn will deliver our donations to the appropriate venues before Christmas.

 
EDUCATION  (Dan Keeley) – Story from the Oregonian education newsletter by Terah Bennett
Queer students at Catholic schools around the Portland area say they’ve felt the effects of guidance released by Portland Archbishop Alexander Sample earlier this year directing schools to use only pronouns assigned to students at birth among other things. 
At some schools, that feels subtle, with instances such as perceived administrative disapproval of LGBTQ+ icons on school posters. Other students say they’ve felt the blowback more directly, including being deadnamed by classmates. Gwendolyn McGarry, a student body co-president at St. Mary’s Academy, says the conflict echoes battles in the wider Catholic church. 
“I don’t know if there’s a way to support queer and Christian students at the same time,” she said. 
Youth Voices reporter Terah Bennett, herself a former St. Mary’s student, interviewed youth across the metro area to bring readers insights into how Sample’s controversial guidance is impacting students. Give her story a read (click at left to follow link)– and don’t forget to keep up on all the latest stories written by our teen writers at Oregonlive.com/youthvoices.
 
LEGISLATIVE  (Dan Keeley) – A group has formed to attempt to repeal Measure 110.  As might be expected it is largely a Republican party effort at this point.  So far I have heard no discussion of whether they want to return to the war on drugs or establish some other policy with regard to mind altering drugs.
 
MEMBERSHIP REPORT  (Betty Chipps) – No. Report
 
POMONA REPORT  (Dan Keeley) – No report.
 
YOUTH  REPORT (Mindy Ferriss) – absent
 
 
TREASURER’S REPORT  (Vicki Pounds)
 
The Treasurer’s Report for the October 22nd Maplewood Grange meeting was emailed 10/19/2023.   The opening balance, as of September 29 was $11,165.23 and the ending balance on October 19, 2023 was $11,560.86.  Hearing no discussion, the report will be ‘filed for Audit.’  
 
 
TABLED BUSINESS


  1. FIDELITY BONDING LIMITS (Betty Chipps) – National Grange requires coverage be secured to insure Grange financial assets in the event of dishonesty.  The Bond provided insurance coverage for at least the Secretary and Treasurer. 
 
Fidelity Bond coverage limits and rates have changed for 2024..  The Grange, in 2023, elected $12,500 of coverage and paid $72 in premium. Comparable coverage in 2024 provides $25,000 of coverage at a rate of $75. 
The next level of coverage would be $50,000 for $100 premium AND requires an Underwriting application be completed.

Don Sether moved to purchase $25,000 of coverage for $75, JoAnn seconded, motion carries, VSO.



UNFINISHED BUSINESS (Dan Keeley):
 
  1. Foster children – Still attempting to make contact with a local group or parent.  May be hopeless.  Sheri Chandra will ask about Parent-Night-Out through her church.
 
  1. Shop Vacuum replacement - Budget of $200 passed, at Oct 1st meeting to purchase N\ew.

  2. Harvest Fair / Dinner Committee – Status Reports (Dan Keeley)
    Open to public:  October 28, 3:00-6:30 pm
T
  • Door Donation:  Donation process based on revenue intake.
  • Advertising / Flyers – Event on Family Fellowship Fundraiser (FFF) Facebook, Maplewood Facebook, Flyers sent to Clackamas Pomona Grange, Woodburn Grange and placed in the Oregon State Grange Bulletin.  Flyers placed in local Community Centers (i.e. Canby Adult Center -Kathy Robertson) as well.
  • Decorations - each bring
  • Games - Family Fellowship Fundraiser group (FFF) – such as Key Hole and Ring Toss
  • Pumpkin decorating  (JoAnn)  – two tables will be occupied downstairs in the back
 
  • Dinner Committee  (Troy Bayless, Chair) – planning 100 dinners (cost estimate $300)
- Servers:  need 6 people minimum  (Betty, Roberta and Sheri can help).
- MENU
  • Pasta
    - JoAnn providing “Jovial’ Gluten-Free noodles and sauces,
    - Troy in Friday PM to cook ahead the pastas and refrigerate
- Troy in Saturday all day as well, cooking sauces (w/meat, w/o meat & white),
  • Beverages:  coffee, tea (hot), cider, water (ice)
  • Salads / Desserts:  all that can - bring
 
 
NEW BUSINESS


  1. BILLS presented to Treasurer – Reimbursement to Dan Keeley:
    09/17/23        Ace Sewing and Vac  - vacuum Bags      $37.96
09/24/23         National Grange - marching CD                  17.00
10/21/23         Mower Battery Cable                                      9.99
TOTAL                      $64.95

Don Sether moved and Betty Chipps seconded to pay the bills, motion carried. VSO
 
  1. Current Rental Policy (Dan Keeley) – See last page

  2. Facebook Account – on Dan’s site

  3. Website Host  – $150 on Weebly (Free through MicroSoft web)
    National Grange buys upgrade IF we buy WordPress

  4. HOLIDAY OUTING  – Grotto suggested last meeting, anyone interested?  Troy and Sheri said YES


MEMBERS SICK or IN DISTRESS (Dan Keeley) – None reported.
 
GOOD OF THE ORDER  (Dan Keeley) – Opportunity is missed by many people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work.  (Thomas Edison)
Guide Dogs for the Blind  –  Roberta asked if the Grange had an interest in this organization?
The site in Boring gives guided tours each Wednesday at 10:00 AM.  This organization runs a two-week live-in  program:  The owner and their potential dog live on site to create a pairing and become acclimated.  Graduation is every other Saturday.
 
 
HEIRLOOM  PROGRAM – (picture:  senior couple, sit on the sofa with photo album in hand).


SPEAK GOOD OF OTHERS, RATHER THAN EVIL.  GATHER UP MEMORIES OF OTHERS’ VIRTUES AND PASS BY THEIR FAULTS IN PITY.   (Third Degree - Chaplain)
 
 
NEXT MEETING – Combines November / December business on Sunday, DECEMBER 10th at 3:30 PM  – Join us for the Welcome Ceremony for Sheri Chandra,
NOTE:  Per Dan Keeley November 4th email:  The November/December Meeting date has been changed to NOVEMBER 26 at 3:30 PM, to accommodate a scheduling conflict expressed by some members.
 
CLOSING – Meeting was adjourned, by Dan Keeley, at 4:42 PM.
 



                                                                                    Respectfully Submitted,
 
 
 
                                                                                    Betty Chipps
                                                                                    Secretary
 

September Minutes

10/1/2023

 
​Maplewood Grange #662 general meeting was called to order at 3:35 PM, by Master/President, Dan Keeley, on Sunday, October 1, 2023 with the “Opening of the Grange” ceremony (upstairs at stations).   Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
 
Visitation: (none)    Guest:   Sheri Chandra  (Chinchilla Show contact)    

Members acting Pro-Temp:  Don Sether, Asst. Steward; Betty Chippis, LAS; Roberta Elders, Ceres; JoAnn Keeley, Chaplain; Don Sether, Gatekeeper.
 
ROLL CALL(Secretary):   * indicates NOT in attendance.              ** Absentee Members
            Master:     Dan Keeley                                                  Steward:  JoAnn Keeley
Overseer:  Don Sether                                                   Asst. Steward:   Mike Ellis  *
Lecturer:   Roberta Elders                                             Lady Asst. Steward (LAS):  Mindy Ferriss *
Chaplain:   Kathie Femrite * (deceased  9/24/23)            Gatekeeper:   Sandy Shew
Secretary:  Betty Chipps                                    Pomona:   (vacant)
Treasurer:  Vicki Pounds                                               Ceres:      Judi Aus   *
Member:   Doug Femrite * (withdrew)                           Flora:       (vacant)
Member:   Laura Ellis: *                                                                                   
Member:   Ken Fessler *          
Member:   Troy Bayless                                                Executive Committee                                      
Members:  Jack and Priscilla Weaver (Canby)  **         #1  Vicki Pounds
Member:  Stacie Bernert (OR City)  **              #2  JoAnn Keeley 
Member:  Joyce (Olivier) Urnaut  (Sandy)  **                #3  Sandy Shew 
==============================================================================================
*****      Members present:  8,   Guests:  0,   Youth:  0  *****                  (Mandatory – Quorum  “7 ” _____________________________________________________________________________________________
 
PROPOSALS for MEMBERSHIP  (Dan Keeley) – Introducing Sheri Chandra, residing in Wilsonville, is with the Chinchilla Show rental, desires membership and is here today to meet our grange members. 
 
MINUTES  (Secretary):  The August 27, 2023 Grange Meeting Minutes were emailed 9/25/2023.
JoAnn moved to approve the August Minutes, Troy seconded - motion carried, VSO.
 
COMMUNICATIONS  (Secretary, Betty Chipps) – See last page
           
SECRETARY REPORT  (Betty Chipps): 
The 2023 3rd Quarter (financial) Report ended SEPT. 30, 2023 with a payable to OSG of $213.75.

The Q3-2023 Quarterly Dues report - status below: 
  • Dues for 19 total members for a payable of $213.75 
    FYI:  Grange remits quarterly to OSG an amount of $11.25/per member.  
  • Two (2) Regular meetings were held in the 3rd Quarter 2023
    (Membership attendance, each meeting:  JULY 23 = 8,  AUG.27 = 7  &  SEPT.- No  meeting).
  • Date Report approved:  OCT 1, 2023
  • Is your Grange current with the Oregon Secretary of State-Corporation Filing?  YES __X__, 
  • Question:  Have you updated your membership list?  YES __X__  (Copy w/Q3-Report mailing)
NOTE:  4th Quarter changes include 2 member deletions:  Kathie & Doug Femrite.
  • Has your Grange secured Bonding for the coming year, 2024?  NO __X__.  (Next mtg 10/22)
 
Maplewood subordinate Grange Seal was affixed; Q3-2023 report was signed by Secretary and Master, Dan Keeley; and the 2024 Membership List was enclosed - mailed  with Q3--2023 Report.
 
Don Sether motioned and Roberta Elders seconded to approve 3rd Qtr Report and issue check for $213.75 to OSG, motion carries, VSO.
 
DRAPING the CHARTER for:
Kathie Femrite (Woodburn, OR), Member: July 1, 2015 - until deceased September 24, 2023.
Betty Chipps shared Kathie was a friend and will be missed, both in the community and Grange.  Kathie and Doug owned Femrite’s Nursery in Aurora, were (life) members of the Oregon Association of Nurseries, held office as Maplewood’s Chaplain and was one to volunteer when the hard work needed to be done.   Don Sether had respect for Kathie who was kind and would sign up to volunteer.



COMMITTEE REPORTS
 
HALL  (Dan Keeley) – Three party rentals scheduled - money pending.  Chaps, Gamers and Zumba still have long term contracts.  Ernst Electrical now says they have a truck broken down and can’t do our job until it gets fixed.  I am exploring other alternatives.  Bathroom repairs are almost complete and look great.  Museum could use some work now!
 
HALL PROJECTS - in priority order  (Dan Keeley):  
Hall Projects (in priority order):
Repair electrical service wires
Northeast side roof needs additional screws
Kitchen counters need refinished
Kitchen needs exhaust hood and fan
Repainting under eaves of hall
Kitchen and dining hall floors need refinished
 
 
AGRICULTURE  (Dan Keeley) – Good news / Bad news..
 
Good News – average farm prices have edged up some.  Grain prices up a lot should give central and eastern Oregon a boost.  Hazelnut prices up only a bit but inventories down a lot gives hope for more good news this year.  Also, drought conditions have eased with normal fall rains.  Hopefully a good snow pack will follow.
Bad news – The fight over water in the Klamath basin is still hot with tribes and fish advocates pushing to eliminate irrigated agriculture.  Absent changes in the ESA it appears they will be successful in eliminating the farming.  Bringing back abundant runs of salmon is another matter.
 
EPA has “settled” the “mega suite”.  A federal judge has approved a court settlement that commits the EPA to fundamentally changing how it regulates pesticides and to pursuing a “pilot project” that aims to eliminate even potential impacts to endangered species regardless of the economic impacts.  In the Willamette valley one of the objectives is to favor the western checkerspot butterfly.  To that end the regulations appear to make it impossible to apply most insecticides on much of the Willamette Valley.  EPA is currently taking public comments on their new regulations at this link:  Regulations.gov  
Sign on to a petition opposing the regulations here:  EPA Herbicide Strategy Producer Petition Sign-On Form (google.com)
 
Don Sether said it has been approximately 30 years since he was State AG Director - at Klamath Falls 250 people fought against this …K. Falls has been happening that long ago.
 
Also Don commented he tried to finish plowing, it was very hard ground.  Rain predicted tomorrow (3 inches would be nice).

COMMUNITY SERVICE  (JoAnn Keeley):


  1. Donation Lists circulated  – Veterans’ Village and Homeless Shelter donation items would certainly be appreciated, even more, now that  the Fall season is here.  Please bring items to the next Grange meeting and JoAnn will deliver our donations before Christmas.

  2. Ronald McDonald House  – Several years ago the Grange donated to this cause,  Clarkes Grange collects Cell Tower income and donates supplies to fill one room of their grange.
In memory of Kathie Femrite, JoAnn proposed the Grange donate $100 to the Ronald McDonald House, Betty seconded, motion carries, VSO.
 
  1. Harvest Fair / Dinner Committee – Status Reports:  Advertising, Games, Pumpkins, Dinner
Harvest Fair: October 28, 3:00-6:30 pm   (benefits Canby community School District)


Troy would like Grange access Friday night (downstairs) to prepare foods and store in the refrigerator.  Also asked if upstairs can be set-up on Saturday beginning 10:00 AM?  Yes, Dan advised calendar is open.  Troy will be assigned an access code for FFF.group.   Hall will be ready to receive guests by 2:00 PM Saturday. 
  • Door = Donation: 
  • Advertising / Flyers  (Troy and JoAnn) – Troy advised the FFF site has had approximately 1,000 inquiries. 
    Dan reported the Harvest Flyer has been sent to Clackamas Pomona and Woodburn Granges.  10th each month is the deadline for Grange Bulletin.- Flyer should be in October/November issue.
    Some community center bulletin boards have also received Flyers.
- Vicki gave John Baker as contact for Herald advertisement (no Flyers, just lil’ blurb)
  • Games - Family Fellowship Fundraiser group (FFF) – upstairs includes Corn Hole and Ring Toss (onto pumpkin stems).
  • Pumpkin decorating  (JoAnn)  – will occupy two tables downstairs, in the back
  • Dinner Committee  (Troy - Chair) – planning for 75-100 dinners: 
  • Need a minimum of 6 people to run tables, 10 people preferred.
  • Restaurant Permit, OR State Food Handlers Card … status?
  • Troy anticipates dinner costs to be approximately $300 (priced at US Food)
    Pasta (include Gluten-Free noodles), sauces (meat, w/o meat & Alfredo) & bread,
    Beverages:  coffee, tea (hot), cider, water (ice)
Salads / Desserts:  all that can - bring.
In addition to the estimated $300 groceries/supply costs, Troy asked the Grange if there was any interest to donate a portion of their net proceeds, i.e. 10% to the benefit cause?   Given the outcome (attendance, full costs) is unknown, discussion was tabled till the next meeting.
 
EDUCATION  (Dan Keeley) – The Oregonian has been looking at and publishing Oregon Department of Education's release of state standardized test scores in reading, writing and math.  Those results show there's been virtually no bounceback among Oregon students after two full years back in school buildings. 
Unlike in some states, such as Tennessee for example, Oregon has not implemented strategies that researchers have said are the most effective at helping students catch up, such as one-on-one or small group tutoring. Tennessee, which has implemented both of those strategies, reported in June that its students exceeded their pre-pandemic performance on the state’s English and social studies tests and made significant gains in math.  Tutoring helps, who knew?  Now we just need to convince districts they need the help and their lawyers that tutors from the community are not an excessive risk.  Oh, and maybe keep teachers from quitting and/or going on strike in frustration.  Piece of cake.
 
 
LEGISLATIVE  (Dan Keeley) – No report.
 
MEMBERSHIP REPORT  (Betty Chipps):
 A reminder that 2024 membership renewal is $50/person.
2023 Membership.Dues have been paid, in full, by all members. 
 
Kathie Femrite (deceased September 24, 2023) and husband, Doug, will be withdrawn as members effective October 1st.  (NOTE: our membership total is only14 members.)
 

POMONA REPORT  (Dan Keeley) – No report.
 
YOUTH  REPORT (Mindy Ferriss) – absent
 
TREASURER’S REPORT  (Vicki Pounds)
The Treasurer’s Report for the October 1st Maplewood Grange meeting was emailed 9/29/2023 (there was no September Grange meeting). The opening balance, as of August 25 was $10,583.83 and the September 28 ending balance was $11,165.23.  The report will be ‘filed for Audit.’  
 
 
UNFINISHED BUSINESS (Dan Keeley):
  1. Foster children:  Grange contact made, expressed desire to support Foster kids (via Birthday party, etc.), no reply has yet been received.
 
  1. PA System in dance hall  - need update/rebuild status from Scott.
 
OLD  BUSINESS: 

Betty asked:  how did the POMONA 5th Degree go at Maplewood Grange held Saturday, SEPT 23rd.   Dan reported 27 people attended and two people took the 5th Degree.
 
NEW BUSINESS
 
  1. BILLS presented to Treasurer – Reimbursement to Dan Keeley:
    09/05/23        Sanding materials                $21.58
09/17/23         Furnace Filter                         $8.89
09/28/23         Electric Wire for light                         $4.17
09/27/23         Wood Floor Cleaner            $51.99
Total                                      $86.63
 
  1. Vicki  requested exp. reimbursement of: $57.84  ($32 paint & misc Bathroom exp.)
Betty moved and Don Sether seconded to pay the bills, motion carries, VSO.
 
  1. When to address the FIDELITY BONDING LIMITS?  Tabled for OCT 22nd meeting.

  2. New SHOP VACUUM  (Dan Keeley):  Dan asked for a motion to provide a budget.
Vicki Pounds motioned to provide a budget amount of $200 for a new Shop Vacuum, Don Sether seconded, motion carried, VSO.  


  1. HOLIDAY OUTING?  (Dan Keeley)  – Members were asked if there was any interest in having a Grange outing during the holidays?  Past outings have included an evening, visiting gardens and listening to Grotto Carolers.
 

MEMBERS SICK or IN DISTRESS (Dan Keeley): 
  1. Kathie Femrite deceased Sept. 24, 2034.  Sympathy cards need to go to Kathie’s husband, Doug Femrite.
  2. Troy Bayless’s eldest Daughter passed away last week.
 
GOOD OF THE ORDER  (Dan Keeley) – The dignity of labor depends not on what you do, but how you do it.  (National Grange Newsletter)
 
HEIRLOOM  PROGRAM – (picture:  woman standing on a hill overlooking the ocean, horizon in the background, fingers forming a window.)

CULTIVATE THE HABIT OF LOOKING FOR BETTER AND BRIGHTER DAYS, INSTEAD OF MOURNING OVER THE PAST.  (Third Degree - Vice President)
 
 
NEXT MEETING – Sunday, OCTOBER 22, 2023 at 3:30 PM.
 
CLOSING – Meeting was adjourned, by Dan Keeley, at 4:42 PM.
 
 
                                                                                    Respectfully Submitted,
 
 
                                                            

August 2023 Minutes

8/27/2023

 
​Maplewood Grange #662 (basic) general meeting was called to order at 4:41 PM, by Master/President, Dan Keeley, on Sunday, August 27, 2023 and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
 
Visitation:  (none)              Guest:  (none)                     Members acting Pro-Temp:   N/A          
           
ROLL CALL  (Secretary):  Members present:  7                                   (Mandatory – Quorum  “7”)
Dan Keeley, JoAnn Keeley, Roberta Elders, Betty Chipps, Vicki Pounds, Sandy Shew, and Troy Bayless.                                
                                                                                               
PROPOSALS for MEMBERSHIP  (Dan Keeley) – Sheri Chandra, residing in Canby, is with the Chinchilla Show and has shown interest in Grange membership.  Dan was hoping she would be here today so we could meet her.
 
MINUTES  (Secretary):  The July 23, 2023 Grange Meeting Minutes were emailed 7/22/2023.
 
COMMUNICATIONS  (Secretary, Betty Chipps) – See last page
           
SECRETARY REPORT  (Betty Chipps):  No report.
 
COMMITTEE REPORTS
 
HALL  (Dan Keeley) – Three party rentals on the books (one rental secured today, Jenna Weist - downstairs 9/24 rental).. Chaps, Gamers and Zumba still have long term contracts. 
Bad connection in attic junction box was causing flickering lights upstairs - was repaired.  Please report any recurrence
 
HALL PROJECTS - in priority order  (Dan Keeley):  
Northeast side roof needs additional screws
Kitchen counters need refinished (paint or formica).
Kitchen needs exhaust hood and fan
Repainting under eaves of hall
Kitchen and dining hall floors need refinished.
Rear door Threshold (rotted out) - has been replaced.  Door handle was also installed.
 
AGRICULTURE  (Dan Keeley) – Bad news / Good news..
 
Bad news is another foreign insect pest.  Yellow leg hornets from SE Asia have been detected in Georgia, the first sighting in the Americas.  A beekeeper in Savannah GA. discovered the hornet attacking his honey bees and reported it to the Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA), according to a statement from the department. Officials are asking the public to report any sightings of the hornet in the state to the GDA.  The hornets nest in paper nests, often in trees and often prey on honey bees and native bees.
 
Good news is we have a soil scientist rock star at OSU, literally and figuratively. James Cassidy has been teaching soil science since 2002 at OSU.  When he attended a meeting that year hosted by three other Oregon State graduate students, a club was born.
That grew into the school’s Organic Growers Club, which has been meeting every Thursday night since its inception. In the beginning, there were only seven participants. Now, around 70 people come together each week to plant, harvest and package a variety of fruits and vegetables. Cassidy has led the effort for more than 20 years.
With no financial support from the university, Cassidy maintains his crops and interns’ stipends by selling community supported agriculture boxes, delivering fresh organic produce to paying community members.  He also advises and instructs many regarding how to keep soils healthy (including JoAnn on several occasions) and is regarded as something like a prophet in the field. “Soil science is everything,” he said in an interview. “Every atom in your body has been through the soil system.”  “Everything depends on the soil”
He added that large farming companies can have a powerful influence over our access to food. Because of this, he said “gardening is an act of resistance or activism. Gardening is a ritual, a spiritual practice.” According to Cassidy, everyone can take part in this resistance.
“Just garden,” he said. “Even if you live on the 60th floor in a Manhattan apartment.”
 
 
COMMUNITY SERVICE  (JoAnn Keeley) – No report.
Foster birthday parties (Dan Keeley):  Still no word from state organization.  Will reach out again next month.
 
EDUCATION  (Dan Keeley) – The Oregonian and other Newspapers have formed a high school student newsroom to promote good journalism and give young people an opportunity to showcase their skills and perspectives.  The following link is a story by two of those students describing budget problems at local community colleges and the effects on society: 
Community college’s budget cuts mean fewer opportunities for adult learners - oregonlive.com  
With these young people and their contemporaries populating our high schools, fake news on either side doesn’t stand a chance.
 
LEGISLATIVE  (Dan Keeley) – No report.
 
MEMBERSHIP REPORT  (Betty Chipps) – Dues Receipt Record / Membership Cards have been ordered through Suzy Ramm at OSG.
 
POMONA REPORT  (Dan Keeley)
  • Pomona 5th Degree at Maplewood, Saturday, September 23rd, Dinner provided by Youth Grange (their fundraiser) at 6:00pm, Lecturer program at 7:00pm, 5th Degree starts 7:30pm.  Please plan to attend and show support. 

    Maplewood 4th Degree members are eligible to receive Pomona 5th Degree:  contact
    Jim Dumolt:  [email protected]  or call:  971-244-2628.
 
 
YOUTH  REPORT (Mindy Ferriss) – None
 
TREASURER’S REPORT  (Vicki Pounds)
The August Treasurer’s Report  (emailed 8/24/2023) had an opening balance of $12,173.10 on July 21 and on August 24 reflected an ending balance of $10,583.83.   Vicki noted a recent bill shows garbage expense has gone up.
The report will be ‘filed for Audit.’  
 
 
UNFINISHED BUSINESS (Dan Keeley):
 
  • Maplewood Fair Booth took First prize!!  Thanks to the committee. 
    ALSO, received People’s Choice! Award.
  • Grange hall electrical service.  Repair is being scheduled, approximately  $2100.
    Vendor, Ernst Electric, awaits PGE approval.
  • State Grange Log Cabin (8/24-9/5) still needs volunteers. 
    - Call Jay Sexton at 503-316-0106
  • Dinner/Harvest Fair, October 28, 3:00-6:30pm – benefits ‘91’ School Student Lunch Fund.
Advertising:  everyone please circulate Flyers in your neighborhoods.
Hall open:  2-7pm
Foods:  Pasta (Troy will also get Gluten-Free noodles), sauces (w/meat, w/o meat & white),
Beverages:  coffee, tea (hot), cider, water (ice)
Salads / Desserts:  all that can - bring
            Planning for what number? 75-100 dinners
            - Need min. 6 people to run tables, 10 people preferred
            Event Chair people
            Advertising / Flyers:  Troy and JoAnn.
Dinner Committee:  Troy -Chairs plus 6 grangers.  Dan will obtain Restaurant Permit.
            - anyone can obtain food-handling card through OR State Food Handling
            Games:  Family Fellowship Fundraiser group (FFF)
            Pumpkin decorating:  JoAnn
  • paper products covered (extra available through JoAnn’s St.Paul activities)
 
  • PA system in dance hall  - need update/rebuild status from Scott.
     

NEW BUSINESS


BILLS presented to Treasurer – Reimbursement to Dan Keeley:  
Cleaning Supplies               $  7.99
Plumbing for faucet                 2.78
Recharge Fire extinguisher           33.30
            Traveling Sprinkler                89.98
Hose to run sprinkler                         44.99  (125 foot)
Hose to run sprinkler                         29.98    (50 foot)   
Threshold (rear door)           14.86
Total                                      $223.88 
 
 
Vicki moved and Betty seconded to pay the bills of $223.88, motion carries, VSO.

MEMBERS SICK or IN DISTRESS (Dan Keeley) – Ian Craig, Chaps and Petticoats President, doing real well after surgery.
 
GOOD OF THE ORDER  (Dan Keeley) – I’m not interested in what any prophet said.  I’m interested in what you, as a follower of that prophet, actually do.  (James McBride, American Author)
 
 
HEIRLOOM  PROGRAM – (picture:  overalled farmer walking field of AG produce )
IN NO OTHER OCCUPATION DOES A MAN’S DAILY LAB OR BRING HIM INTO SUCH CLOSE COMPANIONSHIP WITH THE GREAT CREATOR AS IN THE CULTIVATION OF THE SOIL. 
(Second Degree - Chaplain)
 
 
NEXT MEETING – Sunday, OCTOBER 1, 2023 at 3:30 PM.
 
CLOSING – Meeting was adjourned, by Dan Keeley, at 5:40 PM (downstairs).
 



                                                                                    Respectfully Submitted,
 
 
                                                                                    Betty Chipps
                                                                                    Secretary

July Minutes

7/23/2023

 
​Maplewood Grange #662 general meeting was called to order at 4:26 PM, by Master/President, Dan Keeley, on Sunday, July 2, 2023 with the “Opening of the Grange” reading.  .The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
 
Visitation:  (none)              Guest:  (none)                    
Members acting Pro-Temp:  JoAnn Keeley, Gatekeeper, Betty Chipps, Chaplain          
           
ROLL CALL  (Secretary):  Members present:  8                                   (Mandatory – Quorum  “7”)
Dan Keeley, JoAnn Keeley, Don Sether, Roberta Elders, Betty Chipps, Sandy Shew, Vicki Pounds, and Troy Bayless.                           
                                                                                               
PROPOSALS for MEMBERSHIP  (Dan Keeley) – None
 
MINUTES  (Secretary):  The June 25, 2023 Grange Meeting Minutes were emailed 6/23/2023.
The June Minutes received the following two corrections:
  1. 5 members were in attendance:  Dan Keeley, Troy Bayless (JoAnn Keeley absent), Betty Chipps, Roberta Elders and Mindy Ferriss.
  2. Regarding the STATE SESSIONS Report:  the 3rd sentence was corrected to read:  … “conservatives” and “liberals” agreed on one thing:  they did NOT like RCV …

Dan asked for any questions or further corrections to the June minutes?  Hearing none, the June Minutes are approved as presented.
 
COMMUNICATIONS  (Secretary, Betty Chipps) – also See last page.
 
  • Charlie Bowser Memorial Scholarship - application deadline was JULY 1  
    On Monday, July 17 the Charlie Bowser Scholarship - Selection Committee met at Sunnyside Grange.  The Committee consisted of Sandi Ludi (Sunnyside Gr. Master), Georgene Barragan (Redland Gr. Master) and Betty Chipps (Maplewood Secretary). 
    Three applications were received and discussed:  one applicant was chosen to receive $1,000, and an alternate application was selected (to be awarded if anything unforeseen should occur).

  • Dan Keeley advised:  At the July 22nd POMONA meeting the three applicant Scholarships were discussed further.  It was decided since NO Scholarships were awarded during the COVID shutdown, POMONA would award all three applicants, the following:
            First Place – $1,000 awarded to:  :  Kylinn Cansler, Sandy Grange
            2nd Place  –  $  500 awarded to:     Pam Furlan, Beavercreek Grange
            3rd Place  –   $  500 awarded to:     Cortland Saunders, Springwater Grange
           
SECRETARY REPORT  (Betty Chipps)
The 2023 2nd Quarter (dues) Report ended June 30, 2023 with a payable to OSG of $213.75:
  • Dues for 19 total members develops a payable of $213.75 
    FYI:  Grange remits quarterly to OSG an amount of $11.25/per member.
  • Three (3) Regular meetings were held in the 2nd Quarter,2023
    (Membership attendance, each meeting:  APR 23 = 7,  MAY 28 = 8  and  JUNE 25 = 5).
  • Date Report approved:  July 23, 2023
  • Question:  Has your Grange completed the filing of the 2022 Electronic IRS form 990-N (e-postcard)?  YES _X__,  NO ___
  • Please submit a completed Form 990-N which has “Accepted” in the ‘Status’ column.
Betty motioned to pay (to OSG) the 2nd Quarter Report for $213.75, JoAnn seconded, motion carries, VSO.   Maplewood subordinate Grange Seal was affixed, Q2-2023 report was signed by Secretary and Master/President, Dan Keeley. 
 
Jay Sexton, OSG President’s, Life Membership ‘status’, per June 13, 2023 correspondence:
Life Membership Information:
In normal years, line’ H’ would show the Life Membership income, for your Grange, being subtracted from your 2nd Qtr Dues.  In 2022 all our investments saw “unrealized” losses of 11.5%, so there was no investment credit to subtract from your Grange’s 2nd-Qtr dues.
 
The OSG Exec. Committee considered how to handle this situation during the meeting on March 25th 2023.  Rather than accept a loss in the Principle of the Life Membership Fund,  the Exec. Committee approved a loan of $27,175.30 from the OSG Emergency Fund to the Life Membership Fund, preserving the value of these accounts at the January 1st, 2022 level, with the plan to repay the loan over the next five years to the Emer. Fund from the Life Membership Fund earnings  There will be no interest charged on this loan.  This will slightly reduce the earnings from the Life Memberships for those 5-years until the loan is repaid.
 
Also noted:  The OSG Exec. Committee reported, at the June 3rd  meeting, for the period JAN 1 - MAY 31, 2023 investments have increased 3.67% making ground on the loss of 2022.
 
COMMITTEE REPORTS
 
HALL  (Dan Keeley) – Four party rentals on the books. Chaps, Gamers and Zumba still have long term contracts.  Mower has been serviced and returned to the Grange.
 
Vicki Pounds questioned who the four rentals might be?  Dan Keeley responded (as of Agenda date):  July 22, August 5 (today’s contract), September 9, and September 16 (Rodriguez). 
 
HALL PROJECTS - in priority order  (Dan Keeley):  
Some grading and additional gravel needed on parking areas - COMPLETE.
Front ramp needing paint again - Dan removed railings, painted at home, now COMPLETE.
Repainting under eaves of hall – Contract project?
Northeast side roof needs additional screws
Kitchen needs exhaust hood and fan
Kitchen and dining hall floors need refinished.
Kitchen counters need refinished (paint or formica).
Kitchen (on ramp side) walls and under ramp - has been washed, await touch-up paint.
Rear door Threshold (rotted out) - purchased new threshold ($120) - awaits installation.
 
Gray Water Tank report:  gray-water collection has been rerouted to the new clean-out and a faucet installed at the edge of the rear lawn area.
Research found the gray-water tank, approximately 30-feet South of the Grange (westside) rear corner, was rusted out and drain lines were plugged with sand.  Drain lines were cleaned out between the old tank and the grange and 1” Plastic pipe was slid into the tile from the gray-water tank, ran toward the grange and connected to the new faucet supply pipe behind the backup refrigerator. A new faucet was then installed on the edge of the lawn area in a valve can.  New ¾” plastic pipe was then run under the kitchen sink, along the west wall, through the concrete foundation wall and now dumps into the new septic system clean out, which flows to the septic tank.
 
 
AGRICULTURE  (Dan Keeley) – Bad news / Good news..
Turkey’s currency has continued to devalue after upending hazelnut prices last year, which experts see as a disquieting though not necessarily disastrous omen for 2023’s harvest.
“We’ve hit rock bottom and we expect a two to three year dig-out of this hole to get back to profitable prices,” said Larry George, president of the George Packing Co., a major Oregon processor.
The lire’s value against the dollar and euro fell roughly 50% in the year preceding the 2022 hazelnut harvest, contributing to the plunge in Oregon’s initial prices to 40-53 cents per pound, from about 80-90 cents the previous year.
JOHN DAY, OR. — New Biochar producer.  Giant mounds of what appears to be black powdery charcoal or crushed pencil lead lie piled outside a towering industrial plant built in recent years on the Malheur Lumber property in John Day.
It is Biochar, an up and coming product.  Similar in appearance to charcoal used for cooking, but it can be added to soil to make it highly fertile for agricultural and gardening use, particularly in
tropical areas with high rainfall. It can also be used as a carbon water filter to remove pollutants, such as chemicals and metals, from storm drains and old mines.
The new plant, which employs 18 people, started production of biochar made from wood waste in April.  It generated 100 tons of finished product in June and is expected to produce 500 tons this month. Krumenauer said, “The hope is to ramp up production to about 10,000 tons per year and begin marketing the product to customers in 2024.”
 
COMMUNITY SERVICE  (JoAnn Keeley) – Foster birthday parties:
We reached out to the state organization.  They said “fantastic idea” and that they would get back to me.  Still no luck, will pursue when things slow down a bit.
 
EDUCATION  (Dan Keeley) – no report.
 
LEGISLATIVE  (Dan Keeley) – The bill proposing ranked choice voting (RCV) as an option in Oregon passed the Legislature and will be on the ballot in November.  If it passes in November, the state will use the system but my understanding is it is optional for local jurisdictions.

Our new Oregon Secretary of State is LaVonne Griffin-Valade.  Secretary Fagan’s resignation cast a dark shadow over the Secretary of State’s office.  Oregonians rightly demanded quick action to rebuild trust in the many important programs housed in this agency.  Ms Valade says she thinks you deserve to hear exactly how she plans to rebuild trust.  See bio at State of Oregon: Oregon Secretary of State - Meet the Secretary.  She has also stated she has no interest in running for the office at the end of her appointed term.  How do we attract a competent candidate that wants to actually do the job rather than as a stepping stone to governor's office?  Annual salary of $77,000 plus $250/month for qualified expenses doesn’t seem likely to do the job.
 
MEMBERSHIP REPORT  (Dan Keeley) – State Grange will increase Subordinate Grange dues to $50 versus $45 (ByLaw change will occur one-month before end of year: at NOV. meeting. 
 
Betty will contact OSG and order Membership Cards.
 
 
POMONA REPORT  (Dan Keeley)
  • Pomona Grange-Canby Fair Cookie Booth (Aug. 15-19) needs volunteers, still:   to sign-up
    email Pam Furlan  [email protected] or call (503) 320-2245.
  • Pomona 5th Degree at Maplewood, Saturday, September 23rd, Dinner provided by Youth Grange (their fundraiser) at 6:00pm, Lecturer program at 7:00pm, 5th Degree starts 7:30pm.  Please plan to attend and show support.
 
STATE SESSION REPORT  (Dan Keeley) – State Session went fairly well.  Our resolution concerning Ranked Choice Voting (RCV) went down but so did several others (including the one promoting a study of moving Oregon’s borders.  I talked with several folks about the RCV issue and was surprised that the “conservatives” and the “liberals” agreed on one thing:  they did NOT like RCV because neither the far left nor the far right wings of political factions would likely get elected under that system of counting votes.  Jay Sexton did a pretty good job moderating, at least until we had an amendment - to an amendment - to an amendment of a resolution.
 
YOUTH  REPORT (Mindy Ferriss) – None
 
TABLED BUSINESS – Bike rodeo idea
 
TREASURER’S REPORT  (Vicki Pounds) – The July Treasurer’s Report  (emailed 7/20/2023) had an opening balance of $10,844.74 on June 23 and on July 20 reflected an ending balance of $12.173.10.  The report will be ‘filed for Audit.’  
 
UNFINISHED BUSINESS (Dan Keeley)
  1. PA system in dance hall  - Scott tells me speaker rebuilding is now in progress.

  2. Bayless (FFF) Family Fellowship fundraiser (Troy Bayless) – 2023 ‘Harvest Fair / Carnival will contribute proceeds to ‘91’ School (Canby School District students) Lunch Fund.   Shall Maplewood officially waive rental fees?
 
Betty Chipps motioned for the Harvest Fair use of the hall, on October 28, to be ‘free of charge which benefits ‘91 School’s indigent kids lunch issue, Don Sether seconded, motion carries, VSO.
 
  1. 2024 Community Dinner proposal – 150th Year Anniversary of Oregon State Grange is in September:  Should the Maplewood dinner we are planning be in September, or maybe OCT 28 with Troy’s Harvest Fair (fundraiser)?
 
INFO:  The State Grange’s 150th birthday is September 27, 2023 and the folks at the convention would like to have some sort of celebration at all the community granges.  We discussed the possibility of moving the community dinner (we decided, at the May meeting, to have in 2024) to this year, 2023,
 
Discussion:  Maplewood could do Pumpkin Decorating in combination with the Harvest Fair fundraiser on October 28th and serve dinner (3-6:30pm): 
Troy Bayless suggested Dinner to be Pasta with three sauce options:
 a.)  White sauce, b.)  Meat Sauces and c.)  No-meat Sauce.  Combine with
Garlic Bread, Salad. and Desserts.   Make it a donation option for a good cause
and Troy will Chair the Dinner Committee.


Suggestion was made to obtain a kitchen permit for evening of food service.


Betty Chipps motioned to go with Pasta Dinner, in conjunction with Bayless fundraiser, and have proceeds go to ‘91 School charity, Troy seconded.  Dan asked members for a show of hands for approval, all in favor, motion passes.

We discussed how to get some better attendance.  In addition to word-of-mouth, Advertising suggestions were:
a.)  place on Canby School website via individual in Canby’s Health and Wellness Dept.
b.)  place on familyfellowshipfundraisers.com
c.)  place on maplewoodgrange.org
d.)  list in Canby Herald ‘community section’ (email:  John Baker)
e.)  Grange Facebook
f. )  Vicki suggested: Advantage Magazine coupons & article on fundraiser via Matt Nelson
g.)  Invite POMONA Junior Grangers
 
  1. Grange Hall Electrical service:  We need to replace the ‘electrical weatherhead’ (inside to outside repair).  Only one estimate, so far:  $2,150 received from Ernst Electric, St. Paul.  
    Other suggested contractors:
  1. Engleman’s Electric, Hubbard  (await bid)
  2. Bear Electric, Donald
  3. AC&E Electric, Aurora  (503) 363-2301
 
  1. First Responder dinners:   Emergency Medical Services (EMS) would like the Hall on Christmas Eve.
Betty motioned to donate the Hall for EMS Food Service on Christmas Eve – seconded, motion passes.
 


NEW BUSINESS


  1. Presented to Treasurer:
- (June) RECEIPTS (Dues deposited July) – Dan received $50 check in the mail from
            Ken Fessler 2023 Dues.  Mindy Ferris gave $45 cash for 2023 Dues.
.
- BILLS presented – Reimbursement to Dan Keeley:
June Expenses         
Cleaning Supplies               $19.27
                        Door threshold                     120.00
                        Paper Products                      92.30           
Sub-total, per JUN Gr. mtg $231.57       
Pizza for clean up day           29.96                                               
Bolts for ramp                                   17.40
                        Caulk for ramp                                    9.18
                        Boards and paint for ramp              62.32             Ramp sub-total: $88.90
                        Heat pump Electrical straps  2.97
                        Heat pump conduit             78.34
                        Heat pump conduit             13.48             Heat Pump sub-total:  $94.79
…now up to Code!
                        Website (no longer free)                 144.00
                        Toilet repair part                                 19.99
                        Vacuum cleaner repair                        7.98
July Expenses
Inspect / locate septic tank 320.00
                        Pump out tank                      385.00
                        Excavate septic tank                       241.66
                        Pipe for lawn faucet              51.24
                        Fittings for lawn faucet          44.21
                        Drill for new gray water
                                    Pipe holes in wall       66.37
                        Pea gravel for septic tank     72.00
                        Gravel for repair of parking   38.00
                        Gray water pipe fittings         17.25
                        Pipe for new gray water        51.93            Grey Water Septic exp. $1,287.66
Total                      $1,904.85
 
Betty moved and Vicki seconded to pay the bills of $1904.85, motion carries, VSO.

Expense notes:  Grey Water disposal Septic Tank project ($1,095.47) was authorized by the Executive Committee as an emergency repair to avoid canceling a rental.  Lawn water faucet took advantage of abandoned drain line (in existence at old septic tank) to place pipes without digging a trench. Heat pump conduit ( $94.79) was not up to code and needed to be replaced before hiring an electrician to replace the electrical service.  Door Threshold ($120) is rotted out and must be replaced.
 
  1. STATE FAIR LOG CABIN in need of staff:  Call State Grange Office Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday 8-4:30 at 503-316-0106 to sign up for 3-hour shifts..     
 
  1. Project START RIGHT prefers funds ($$) over purchased and donated school supplies.
    Approximately 1,400 kids benefit, within Clackamas County through OR Dept. of Human Services.
Don Sether moved to send $50 from Maplewood Grange to START RIGHT, Betty Chipps seconded, motion carries.


  1. POMONA will do a Display Booth at the Clackamas County Fair, August 15-19
    (Set-up 8/13-14).  Theme is “The place to Bee in 2023” … interested? 
    Idea:  Perhaps incorporate “How to Clean Mason Bees” in the display booth.
JoAnn moved to have a Maplewood display at CCF (set-up 8/13), Troy seconded, motion carries
 
  1. Potential Rental - Chinchilla Show (Dan Keeley):
    Woman wanted to rent the Grange to exhibit approximately 100 Chinchillas (touchy  about the location temperature).  Involves about 30 people; the show was previously doing business in Baker in December.  Looking for a new location.
 
 
MEMBERS SICK or IN DISTRESS (Dan Keeley) – Note received from Ken Fessler with his membership check:  said doing OK after some tribulations.
 
Executive Committee State member, Louise Holst (related to Jessie-Jo Guttridge of Springwater Grange), had cancer and has passed.
 
 
GOOD OF THE ORDER  (Dan Keeley) – Don’t count the days, make the days count.  (Muhammad Ali)
 
HEIRLOOM  PROGRAM – (picture:  tractor in grain field)
SINCE GOD PLACED MAN ON EARTH, AGRICULTURE HAS EXISTED.  THERE IS NO OCCUPATION THAT PRECEDES IT, BEFORE LITERATURE EXISTED, BEFORE GOVERNMENTS WERE KNOWN, AGRICULTURE WAS THE CALLING OF MAN AND ALL THE FRUITS OF SOCIAL PROGRESS SINCE THEN GREW FROM THE BROWN SOIL.  (Installation Ceremony, Installing Officer)
 
 
NEXT MEETING – Sunday, August 20 at 4:30 PM.
 
CLOSING – Meeting was adjourned, by Dan Keeley, at (approx.) 5:38 PM (downstairs).
 



                                                                                    Respectfully Submitted,
 
 
                                                                                    Betty Chipps
                                                                                    Secretary

June Minutes

6/25/2023

 
​Maplewood Grange #662 general meeting was called to order at 1:22 PM, by Master/President, Dan Keeley, on Sunday, June 25, 2023 (which followed the Grange Clean-Up luncheon).
 
Visitation:  (none)              Guest:  (none)                     Members acting Pro-Temp:  (none)                  
 
ROLL CALL  (Secretary):  Dan Keeley, JoAnn Keeley, Betty Chipps, Roberta Elders, and Mindy Ferris.                        Members present:  5,        Mandatory – Quorum  “ 7 ”         
                                                                                               
PROPOSALS for MEMBERSHIP  (Dan Keeley) – None
 
MINUTES  (Secretary):  The MAY 28, 2023 Grange Meeting Minutes were emailed May 27, 2023.
With no quorum present, approval is pending for the next meeting.
 
COMMUNICATIONS  (Secretary, Betty Chipps)
  • Charlie Bowser Memorial Scholarship is offered to Grange members and their children/grandchildren.  Send to Sandi Ludi, Clackamas Pomona before JULY 1st.

  • Boring/Damascus serves Mother’s Day Strawberry-Waffle Breakfast, JUNE 11, 8am–1pm.
 
 
SECRETARY REPORT  (Betty Chipps)  – None
 

COMMITTEE REPORTS
 
HALL  (Dan Keeley) – Four party rentals on the books. Chaps, Gamers and Zumba still have long term contracts.  Mower has been serviced and returned to the Grange.
 
HALL PROJECTS - in priority order  (Dan Keeley):  
Some grading and additional gravel needed on parking areas - complete.
Front ramp needing paint again - Dan removed railings - to be painted at home.
Repainting under eaves of hall – Contract project?
Northeast side roof needs additional screws
Kitchen needs exhaust hood and fan
Kitchen and dining hall floors need refinished.
Kitchen counters need refinished (paint or formica).
Kitchen (on ramp side) walls and under ramp - has been washed, await touch-up paint.
 
 
AGRICULTURE  (Dan Keeley) – no report.
 
COMMUNITY SERVICE  (Dan Keeley) – Our Goodie Basket tickets did NOT win 😐.  The kids sold a lot of tickets - put them in a 33 gallon trash can and drew tickets from there.  I heard there were over 4000 tickets sold.
 
EDUCATION  (Dan Keeley) – no report.
 
LEGISLATIVE  (Dan Keeley) – As you know the Legislature is back in session. Bills backed up by the walkout are being passed in rapid succession.
 
MEMBERSHIP REPORT  (Betty Chipps) – Ken Fessler mailed check for $50, his 2023 dues.
Mindy Ferris gave $45 cash in payment of 2023 dues - requests new Grange Membership Card.
 
POMONA REPORT  (Dan Keeley) – next meeting July 22nd at Harding Grange.
  • Pomona will do a display booth at the county fair.  Theme is “The place to Bee in 2023.”
  • Pomona Grange-Canby Fair Cookie Booth preparations are proceeding, to sign-up: 
    email Pam Furlan  [email protected] or call (503) 320-2245.
  • Pomona 5th Degree at Maplewood, Saturday, September 23rd, Dinner provided by Youth Grange (their fundraiser) at 6:00pm, Lecturer program at 7:00pm, 5th Degree starts 7:30pm.  Please plan to attend and show support.
 
Troy Bayliss asked about the 5th Degree.  Dan expressed the 1st-4th degrees are subordinate grange and represent each season.  A member initiated into the 4th degree can receive the 5th degree, which is Pomona (i.e. county) level.  Sixth degree is conferred at State level.
 
STATE SESSION REPORT  (Dan Keeley) – State Session went fairly well.  Our resolution concerning Ranked Choice Voting (RCV) went down but so did several others (including the one promoting a study of moving Oregon’s borders.  I talked with several folks about the RCV issue and was surprised that the “conservatives” and the “liberals” agreed on one thing:  they did not like RCV because neither the far left nor the far right wings of politics would likely get elected under that system of counting votes.  Jay Sexton did a pretty good job moderating, at least until we had an amendment - to an amendment - to an amendment of a resolution.
 
YOUTH  REPORT (Mindy Ferriss) – None
 
 
TABLED BUSINESS – Bike rodeo idea
 
TREASURER’S REPORT  (Vicki Pounds) – The June Treasurer’s Report  (emailed 6/22/2023) had an opening balance of $10,463.38 on May 21 and on June 22 reflected an ending balance of$10,844.74.  The report can be ‘filed for Audit.’  
 
UNFINISHED BUSINESS (Dan Keeley)
 
  1. Bayless Family Fellowship fundraiser (Troy Bayless) – what, if anything, is needed? 
Waive Rental fees officially?  (This did not get handled … to be presented at the next Grange meeting.)   2023 Fundraiser will contribute to ‘91’ School (a Canby School District) Lunch Fund.

We discussed how to get some better attendance.  Advertising the old way doesn't seem to have much impact.  Social media may be better but I’m not very adept at that.  Word of mouth is best but often takes years to yield results.  Combining our dinner with Troy’s carnival might do both some good as we have both done a previous event that should be generating some word of mouth.  Troy’s carnival is scheduled for October 28.
Idea:  Invite POMONA Junior Grangers
 
  1. 2024 Community Dinner proposal – 150th Year Anniversary of Oregon State Grange is in September - location:   Should dinner be then?  
 
The State Grange’s 150th birthday is September 27, 2023 and the folks at the convention would like to have some sort of celebration at all the community granges.  We discussed the possibility of moving the community dinner (we decided, at the May meeting, to have in 2024) to this year.  Maybe have something fairly simple such as spaghetti, chili or stew and cornbread or french bread with salads and dessert.   Make it a donation option for a good cause.
 
  1. Advertising (both) at the Clackamas County Fair would be a good opportunity, if we decide to set up a display booth.   Theme:  The Place to “Bee” in 2023.
Idea:  Perhaps incorporate “How to Clean Mason Bees” in the display booth.


 
So, conclusion of those present was:  Grange should have our dinner/open house this year in combination with Troy’s carnival, set up a display for Maplewood at the county fair in August and advertise our event as a 150th Grange birthday party with charitable benefit in that display.  Troy’s intention is to benefit the lunch program at ‘91 School by paying off overdue bills.  We could stick with that or pick something else for the dinner proceeds,(if any).
 
 
  1. PA (Public Address) System  in the dance hall – in progress.
 
  1. Parking lot rock:  Buche Rock Quarry, cost $381 – a bit larger rock than I would have liked but will work.
 
  1. Foster children birthday parties – The Keeley’s reached out to the state organization.  They said “fantastic idea” and they will get back to me.  No response thus far.
 
  1. First Responder dinners at Christmas and/or Thanksgiving?  Troy is in - loves to prepare food! 
  • JoAnn will call First Responders and offer the hall for 2023 Christmas dinner and inquire of help
    needed for deliveries.



NEW BUSINESS
 
  1. To present to Treasurer:
- RECEIPTS:  Dan received $50 check in the mail from Ken Fessler - 2023 Dues. 
Mindy Ferris gave $45 cash for 2023 Dues.
.
- BILLS presented: 
Reimbursement to Dan Keeley:     
Cleaning Supplies                   $  19.27
                        (rear) Door threshold                120.00
                        Paper products                           92.30
            Keeley TOTAL:         $231.57

With no quorum present, bills will be presented for reimbursement at the next meeting.


 
  1. STATE FAIR LOG CABIN in need of staff: 
3-hour shifts:  can call Dan 503-508-7807 or call Suzy Ramm  @ OSG 503-316-0106


 
 
MEMBERS SICK or IN DISTRESS (Dan Keeley) – Note received from Ken Fessler, he writes:
We are slowing up a little. Marie (his wife) had gallbladder surgery, then a triple (heart) by-pass and COVID on top of that.  Now we are doing pretty good. 
 
 
GOOD OF THE ORDER  (Dan Keeley) Our children are the messages we send to a future we will never see.  (Elijah Cummings, US Representative).
 
 
 
HEIRLOOM  PROGRAM – (picture:  budding and flowering trees)
LET US REMEMBER THAT NO TREES BEAR FRUIT IN AUTUMN WHICH DO NOT BLOSSOM IN THE EARLY SUMMERTIME.  THAT LIFE MAY BE PROFITABLE, LADEN WITH GOOD FRUITS, LET ALL ENDEAVOR THAT YOUTH BE STUDIOUS AND VIRTUOUS , REPLETE WITH THE BLOSSOMS OF OBSERVATION AND STUDY – THE PROMISE OF FUTURE WISDOM AND USEFULNESS.          (Second Degree; Pomona)
 
 

NEXT MEETING – Sunday, JULY 23 at 4:30 PM
 
 
 
CLOSING – Meeting was adjourned, by Dan Keeley, at 2:20 PM (downstairs).
 



                                                                                    Respectfully Submitted,
 
 
                                                                                    Betty Chipps
                                                                                    Secretary
 
 
INFO:  Members noted the following vacations / trips planned:
 
  • Mindy Ferris:  JULY 17-23,  San Diego
  • Elders:  SEPT 14-21, 2023   Niagara Falls
 

May Minutes

5/28/2023

 
Maplewood Grange #662 general meeting was called to order at 4:40 PM, by Master/President, Dan Keeley, on Sunday, May 28, 2023 (at tables upstairs…warmer).  The “Opening of the Grange” was read and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
 
Visitation:  (none)               Guest:  (none)                                               Members present:  8
Members acting Pro-Temp:  Kathie Femrite, Gatekeeper.
 
ROLL CALL  (Secretary):     Dan Keeley, JoAnn Keeley, Don Sether, Betty Chipps, Vicki Pounds, Roberta Elders, and Kathie & Doug Femrite.             
 
                                                                                               
PROPOSALS for MEMBERSHIP  (Dan Keeley) – future renter seems interested.
 
MINUTES  (Secretary):  The APRIL 23, 2023 Grange Meeting Minutes were emailed May 27, 2023.
Dan asked were there any questions or corrections to the minutes, hearing none:   
JoAnn moved to approve the April minutes, Roberta seconded, motion carried, VSO.
 
COMMUNICATIONS  (Secretary, Betty Chipps) –
  • Charlie Bowser Memorial Scholarship is offered to Grange members and their children/grandchildren.  Send to Sandi Ludi, Clackamas Pomona before JULY 1st.

  • Boring/Damascus serves Mother’s Day Strawberry-Waffle Breakfast, JUNE 11, 8 AM- 1 PM.
 
 
SECRETARY REPORT  (Betty Chipps)  – none
 

COMMITTEE REPORTS
 
HALL  (Dan Keeley) – Six party rentals on the books. Chaps, Gamers and Zumba still have long term contracts.  Dan has taken the mower home for service (running rough and needs lubricated) - will be returned to the shed for next mowing and will stay there for the summer.
 
HALL PROJECTS - in priority order  (Dan Keeley):  
 
Some grading and additional gravel needed on parking areas.
Front ramp needing paint again - needs sanded, primed and paint applied.
Repainting under eaves of hall – Contract project?
Northeast side roof needs additional screws
Kitchen needs exhaust hood and fan
Kitchen and dining hall floors need refinished.
Kitchen counters need refinished (paint or formica).
Kitchen (on ramp side) walls and under ramp - could use touch-up of paint.

 
AGRICULTURE  (Dan Keeley) – Irrigation water supplies are looking much better in most of Oregon.  Even farmers in the Klamath basin are getting water.  Also, a recent NOAA study of fish passage in the lower Snake river showed that 90+% of fish swimming upstream successfully pass the four dams on the lower Snake River and survival rates for young fish passing downstream is above 95% at each of the four dams and above 75% past all 4 dams.  The study has put a damper on some of the demands to remove the four dams but has not eliminated the threat. 
 
COMMUNITY SERVICE  (JoAnn Keeley) – Ag Fest was successful as usual.  Thanks go to State President Jay Sexton for organizing, and tolerating me (seems I poured a watering can on him).  Also thanks to Maplewood members who participated. 


IOOF Cemetery (off Meridian) -  looking pretty good after May 15th & 20th cleanup:  Grass was mowed, Dan pressure washed headstones & lawn edged almost all of them,  Roberta did pruning (string trimmer was used in tight places). 
JoAnn asked if anyone knew who put up the flags?  No clues - JoAnn will call Todd.
Supplies will be delivered Tuesday to Veterans Village.
Foster children birthday parties?  Other granges and organizations are throwing birthday parties for foster children whose families request it.
- JoAnn still needs to call and investigate the program, and extend our grange offer.


First Responder dinners at Christmas and/or Thanksgiving?  Troy is in - loves to prepare food! 
  • JoAnn will call First Responders Group and offer the hall for 2023 Christmas dinner and inquire of help needed for deliveries.
 
 
EDUCATION  (Dan Keeley) – In a continuing saga Governor Kotek has stepped up efforts to align reading/literacy instruction in Oregon with current research that shows teaching old fashioned phonics is critical. The current action is in the Legislature where an effort to align teacher education in the State University system (like Western Oregon University) and at the private system (like George Fox University) with the new/old research is underway.   

Dan advises school is out soon - be careful & watch for children.
 
 
LEGISLATIVE  (Dan Keeley) – Big news here is the Legislative walkout by Senate Republican caucus and Sen. Boquist.  The current argument is who gets to determine what bills are voted on when.  Republicans say they will only show up to vote on bills they like, Democrats say they are in the majority and have the right to schedule votes on all the bills in the pipeline whether Republicans like them or not.  The real argument is about policy, particularly hot button issues such as climate change response, treatment of minority populations, response to crime and criminals, waste of state money, etc. 

The next big argument will be enforcing the terms of office for the next elected officials.


MEMBERSHIP REPORT  (Betty Chipps) – Sent 2023 Dues Reminder notice to three members.
 
POMONA REPORT  (Dan Keeley) – next meeting July 22nd at Harding.
Dan is now receiving more information for the Pomona website.
  • Pomona will do a display booth at the county fair.  Theme is “The place to Bee in 2023.”
  • Pomona Grange-Canby Fair Cookie Booth preparations are proceeding, to sign-up: 
    email Pam Furlan  [email protected] or call (503) 320-2245.

 
 YOUTH  REPORT (Mindy Ferriss) – absent
 
TABLED BUSINESS – Bike rodeo idea … anyone interested in spear-heading this event?.
 
 
TREASURER’S REPORT  (Vicki Pounds) – The MAY Treasurer’s Report  (emailed 5/25/2023) had an opening balance of $10,378.07 on April 24 and on May 28 reflected an ending balance of $10,463.38.  Dan asked for questions/comments regarding the report?  Hearing none, the report was ‘filed for Audit.’  
 
UNFINISHED BUSINESS (Dan Keeley)
 
  1. Bayless Family fundraiser (Troy Bayless) – what, if anything, is needed?  Waive Rental fees officially?  (This did not get handled … to be presented at the next Grange meeting.)
    INFO:  Family Business is a 501 C-3 organization that targets a need then pulls together family/church and friends to organize/host a fundraising event to fund the need.  This year’s fundraiser may be in June. 
 
  1. Molalla County Health community event related to Fentanyl poisoning prevention
    (Don Sether) – Molalla Grange worked with VFW and set-up the Grange and served snacks for a 2-½ hour presentation on drug/Fentanyl education - how to help those in crisis & suicide prevention/intervention programs.  Any organization can request this presentation and invite the community.  Don Sether relayed  “Prevention is ‘word-of-mouth’.  Don Sether will provide us with contact information.

Discussion:
Vicki emphasized today it is hard to know what is legal/illegal.  Dan Keeley related with drugs everything now is a misdemeanor (or decriminalized - illegal but  prosecuted like a traffic ticket).
 
  1. PA (Public Address) System  in the dance hall – Scoot Zinser’s cost estimate was $100/speaker - told him to go ahead with repair..
Betty moved to budget $200 to repair the PA Speakers, Don Sether seconded, motion carries, VSO.
 
  1. Spring Cleaning Day (Dan Keeley)  is June 25, meet 10:00 AM at the Grange. 
    Bring your project tools.
    Grange will provide Pizza, Betty will bring Salad, Troy will prepare a Dessert, Roberta will bring Cookies.  Sandy will be our "gopher”’& pick-up the Pizza.

  2. Goodie Basket Raffle Tickets  – OSG Youth Activities Fundraiser
    – Bring your Raffle ticket sales to the MAY Meeting.
– Shall Maplewood issue a check, payable to OSG, for 20 raffle tickets?
Betty motioned for Maplewood to purchase Goodie Basket Raffle Tickets for $20 to benefit/donate to the OSG Youth fundraiser, Don Sether seconded, motion carries, VSO.
 
  1. Property line – no change. 
    Currently the line was restaked to 7-foot maximum from fence versus 15-foot as initially marked.

  2. Parking lot rock ($500 a load with Canby Gravel).  Don Sether suggested could also check with
    Molalla - Buche for estimate.  Dan will do more checking.
Don Sether moved to order parking lot gravel at an estimate of $500, Kathie Femrite seconded, motion carries.


  1. Cookie Booth at Clackamas County Fair:  Dan/JoAnn & Terry/Betty have volunteered for the Pomona Cookie Booth from 4:00 - 7:00 PM on Wednesday, August 16. 

INFO:  The Chaps and Petticoats Square Dance demonstration is 8:00 PM, the same day.
Roberta Elders works the “Rainbow” Corn Booth on Wednesday, August 16th, as well.



NEW BUSINESS
 
  1. Presented to Treasurer:
- RECEIPTS:  Dan advised Vicki a rental check was deposited for 5/22 rental.


- BILLS presented: 
Reimbursement to Dan Keeley:     
Broken mower throttle lever   $ 18.00 (wore out)
                        Light bulbs                                  27.98
                        Paint supplies  (tape, etc.)            6.97
            Keeley TOTAL:         $ 52.95

Betty Chipps moved to pay the bills, Roberta Elders seconded, motion carries, VSO.

Dan presented Vicki with fuel bill of:  $284.40  (90 gallons)



  1. Oregon State Convention Packet  – JUNE 17-22, 2023 Polk County Fairgrounds, Rickreal
    Related to Credentials of Pomona Delegates (representing Maplewood Grange), Dan Keeley, Grange Master, is 1st Delegate, JoAnn to be 2nd Delegate, ALT Delegate is Roberta Elders.
    Don Sether moved to reimburse Delegates for State Convention expenses of $160 payable to OSG ($130 = meals for two, Convention registration $15 each or $30 for two), Vicki Pounds seconded, motion carries, VSO.

    Representing Maplewood Grange as Delegates, Betty moved for JoAnn Keeley to be 2nd Delegate and Roberta Elders ALT-Delegate at the State Convention, JoAnn seconded, motion carries, VSO,

 
 
MEMBERS SICK or IN DISTRESS (Dan Keeley) – None reported.
 
GOOD OF THE ORDER  (Dan Keeley)
“In my older face, I see my life.  My face carries all my memories.  Why should I erase them?”
(Diane Von Furstenberg)
 
HEIRLOOM  PROGRAM – (Young couple seated at a bench overlooking the lake/mountains)
THE INTERESTS, THE SOCIAL RELATIONS AND THE DESTINY OF MAN AND WOMAN ARE IDENTICAL.  SHE WAS INTENDED BY OUR CREATOR, TO BE THE HELPMEET, COMPANION, AND EQUAL OF MAN - THE PERFECTING HALF ADDED TO HIS HEMISPHERE - THUS COMPLETING THE FULLY-GLOBED ORB OF OUR COMMON HUMANITY; HENCE, AS ONE, EACH SHARES THE GLORY OR THE SHAME OF THE OTHER. 
(First Degree; Chaplain)
 
 
GRANGE - CLEANING DAY – Sunday, JUNE 25, 2023 CLEANING DAY arrive at 10:00AM.
and NEXT MEETING – will be after Cleaning projects concluded (or perhaps at lunch).
 
 
 
CLOSING – Meeting was adjourned, by Dan Keeley, at 5:41 PM with the “Closing of the Grange” reading (upstairs).
 



                                                                                    Respectfully Submitted,
 
 
                                                                                    Betty Chipps
 
 
 

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News and Special Events

May meeting 4th Sunday at 3:30 PM

As always, Maplewood Grange is looking for community minded folks willing to get involved and leave the world a bit better than they found it.  Open to all since 1867.  Please use the contact form to request more info on the opportunities and benefits of membership.

CHAPS and Petticoats  Come join us for a lively square dance on first and third Fridays of the month at 7:30 to 10PM.  https://www.chapsandpetticoats.com/​

​ZUMBA!  Shake it up at 9AM and 6PM! - Call Cristina for details at 503-984-8193  (Hall has AC)

 

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  • Home
  • Who we are
  • Contact
  • Rental Fees
  • Meetings
  • Membership
  • Agendas
  • Officers
  • Grange History
  • Rental Agreement
  • Rental Calendar
  • Minutes
  • Pictures
  • Job List
  • News Letters
  • Reports / Good of the Order