| National
Grange Redesigns Web Site to Meet the Changing
Needs of Its Members Burlington,
VT, November 12, 2003 - The National Grange Web site has undergone a complete
transformation in order to meet the changing needs of its members. Changes in
rural America mean changes for its residents, and our members and rural residents
want to be more informed about what's happening in their communities.
The new look, not only showcases the mission of the Grange more effectively, it
also lends to the Web site's new organization of content, which will provide more
resources and information, as well as easier navigation.
"Not only will our newly-improved Web site continue to be a source of information
to state and community Granges across the nation, it will show America why the
Grange is an important part of the fabric of our nation by providing the latest
news about issues affecting rural America and by showing how we are fighting for
stronger rural communities," National Grange President Kermit Richardson said.
New
additions to the Web site include a "What's New?" section, which will provide
viewers with new information about the Grange, such as new member benefits or
new publications and products available. The "Recent Headlines" section will feature
a collection of news stories published by national and local agriculture and country
living publications. In
addition, the "Why Grange?" section will showcase success stories from Granges
across the nations. (All Granges are encouraged to send their success stories
to jhill@nationalgrange.org.) The
"Monthly Feature" will include detailed news stories about issues affecting rural
America. This section will provide in depth information about rural education,
housing, healthcare and other issues touching Grange communities. "History of
the Grange" and "Grange Foundation" are also new sections. Members
will also be able to access membership brochures and secretary and treasurer forms.
A "Media Room" will include stories written about the National Grange and provide
printable leadership biographies and fact sheets about the National Grange and
its programs.
Founded
in 1867, the National Grange is the nation's oldest general agricultural and rural
advocacy organization. It has grassroots units in 3,600 local communities in 37
states, with over 200,000 members. It serves farm, non-farm, rural families
and communities on a wide variety of economic, educational, legislative and family
issues. | 
