| JUNE 1, 2026 -- The 2026 North East Lecturers Association (NELA) Biennial Conference brought together Grangers from across the region for a memorable weekend of fellowship, learning, and inspiration.
Hosted by the New York State Grange at their headquarters in Cortland, New York, this year’s conference embraced the theme “America 250”—a timely and meaningful focus as our nation approaches this historic milestone. Connecticut was well represented, with twelve members making the journey from Riverton, Whigville, Vernon, Coventry, North Stonington, Stonington, and Beacon Valley Granges. In total, more than 70 Grangers from across the Northeast participated (with the exception of Vermont), creating a vibrant and collaborative atmosphere throughout the weekend.
The conference, expertly hosted by New York State Grange Lecturer Brenda Noble, began Friday evening with an opening ceremony that showcased state pride—Connecticut members stood out in our signature orange.
Connecticut State Grange pens were given to all attendees in a conference-themed bag with goodies from all the states. The evening quickly transitioned into fun and fellowship, highlighted by Connecticut’s sponsored game, “Blow a Duck.” Participants used straws to race their America 250 rubber ducks across the finish line, with winners receiving orange glow- in-the-dark footballs generously donated by the Riverton Lions Club. Saturday offered a full day of enrichment, beginning with seminars and a tour of the New York State Grange Museum. The learning continued into the afternoon, followed by a unique and enjoyable visit to Homer Hops Brewery, where attendees learned about the brewing process—and even sampled a memorable blue strawberry beer. The evening gala and entertainment, provided by New York State Grange members, brought the day to a festive close.
Sunday morning greeted us with an unexpected April snowfall—a reminder that spring in the Northeast always keeps us guessing. The final day included a culminating seminar co-hosted by Massachusetts State Lecturer Deborah Goodrich and myself, titled “Project Sustenance: Then, Now, and the Next 250 Years.
This interactive workshop focused on the National Grange’s Project Sustenance initiative, encouraging participants to reflect on the Grange’s historic role in supporting food security while developing new, forward-thinking ideas for community impact. Through discussion, collaboration, and hands-on activities, attendees explored how local Granges can expand their reach, build partnerships, and create meaningful, sustainable programs as we look toward America’s 250th anniversary and beyond.
The energy, creativity, and commitment shared during this session—and throughout the entire weekend—were truly inspiring. It reinforced a simple but powerful truth: the strength of the Grange lies in its people and their willingness to serve.
As we returned home to Connecticut, we carried with us new ideas, renewed purpose, and a deep appreciation for the connections we share across state lines. We now look forward to the 2028 NELA Conference, which will be held in Maine.
Until then, let us continue the work of Project Sustenance in our own communities—honoring our past, strengthening our present, and building a future worthy of the next 250 years.
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