WATERTOWN-The 153rd Annual New York State Grange Session was held at Hilton Garden Inn October 17 through 21.

Many Grangers from Butternut Valley Grange attended including Delegate at Large Calvin Wilcox and Associate Delegate Anna Ritchey representing Otsego County Pomona Grange. Delegates were Lynne Porter and Cathy Galley. Also attending were Special Deputy Roger Halbert and State Family Activities Chairperson Maryanne Campbell. Grange members Sarah Galley, Roberta Halbert, Norman, Bruce and Helen Ritchey. Others attending from Otsego County were Tom and Patricia Hornbeck, Carolyn Hopper, Susan Drake and Irene Fassett, State Pianist.

Delegates worked on resolutions with several issues approved which Granger’s support to be sent to NYS Legislators.

The Family Activities Chocolate Cake with Peanut Butter frosting contest was held. Nineteen entries from Counties were judged. The Otsego County entry by Anna Ritchey from BVG won first place.

The yearly Community Service report from September 2024 to September 2025 of BVG received third place and a monetary prize of $50.00.

Many Grangers donated “C” one-dollar bills that were presented to the Oswego County Cancer services program. Total amount collected from Grangers across NYS was $2,000.

The collection of food items for the Backpack Program was presented to Carthage Central School District.

The annual session was hosted by Jefferson Pomona Grange. Next year’s session will be held in Senaca Falls, October 16 through 20, 2026.