| FEBRUARY 12, 2012 -- Last night we said goodbye to a special, old friend.
Farmington Valley Pomona No. 11 turned in its identity to our Worthy State Master/President. Our Pomona no longer exists.
If the crushing blow had come a few years ago, there would have been a great many more sad tears shed. With only eight members present, we could not even hold a regular meeting for our last hurrah.
Every paper we came across brought a memory or two of things that used to be. Farmington Valley was once a very strong group. Each spring and fall special efforts were put into rehearsals, stage decorations and lights and switches that provided just the right effects for our storm. On the night of the exemplification of our Fifth Degree, we could count on a large class of candidates. With the ladies all dressed in long gowns and the men in dark suits and bow ties, the officers lined up followed by the candidates and then everyone else as we descended the stairs to enjoy a delicious dinner prepared by the committee known as home economics and later as committee on women’s activities.
Back upstairs, there was excitement in the air. It seemed everyone was anxious. You could see some mouthing the words of one last chance to know the lines that had been memorized. With everyone in place, the degree went on without a hitch and all the new members were greeted and welcomed.
There were turkey suppers that brought us together for preparing and serving. It was those suppers that made it a personal, firm conviction to never become a waitress as my life’s work.
We all enjoyed the ride to Winchester for our annual potluck picnics at Camp Berger. After lunch, AltaDon Hall was a busy place with setback and other games being played. Many ate at the picnic tables outside and just enjoyed the view of the pond. Others made use of the docks, boats and canoes making it a very wonderful time together.
There were gimmicks, banners and games that got people out to visit other Pomonas. Farmington Valley usually had many loaded cars heading to wherever we were invited. One Pomona actually brought a busload to one of our meetings.
These and many others make for so many wonderful memories, but now it’s time to look forward.
Some of our community Granges are still deciding on a Pomona to join. Some have already made the decision. Perhaps, the hardest part is to see us divided.
For our Grange, Cawasa, it seems logical travel-wise and otherwise to return to Mountain County Pomona No. 4. For most of my years in Grange, a few of our members retained membership there and our Masters reported to both Pomonas.
The close relationship between Farmington Valley and Mountain County is legendary. This time, however, we will not be going as Kissin’ Cousins, but as full-fledged members. We look forward to a long, fun and rewarding experience.
It is our hope that each of the community Granges in Farmington Valley will continue active membership in whatever Pomona they choose. |
