Jan2018

Vol. 121, No. 3

January 2018

InsIde

President and CEO Buddy Preuss previews 2018

H

➤ Pg. 2

Reasons why a Hermann Sons Life annuity is a good idea ➤ Pg. 5

Board of Directors meeting summary ➤ Pg. 6

hermannsonslife.org

2018

Page 2 – Hermann Sons Life – January 2018

President’s Message

HERMANN SONS LIFE USPS 242200 Periodicals Postage Paid at San Antonio, Texas Published Monthly by HERMANN SONS LIFE 515 S. St. Mary’s St. San Antonio, Texas 78205 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Hermann Sons Life, P.O. Box 1941 San Antonio, TX 78297-1941 OFFICERS President and CEO Allan W. “Buddy” Preuss Vice President of Operations and COO Samantha Schulmeier Vice President of Finance and CFO Harry Werland Vice President of Marketing Timothy P. Kolbe Vice President of Member Benefits Kimberly A. Krueger DIRECTORS Sandra Jones, Chair Mike Beam Suzanne Hildebrand David Noak Stan Steiger David Wolf LAWS COMMITTEE

Norma Bruns Tommy Daum Agnes Dreibrodt Lillian Franckowiak Debbie Gold Charles Knibbe David Lewis Jeanette Preuss

Robert Prewitt Tim Salge Steven Schellenberg Marlin Tanneberger Ronald Wiatrek Janet Zabransky Gerald Ziemnicki

MEMBER BENEFITS COMMITTEE

Bradford Boehme Frank Brandon Shirley Faske Tammy Kelley

Bradley Klein Ed Kurtz Laura Thigpen

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT COMMITTEE

Elizabeth Byron Tammy Haecker Marsha Kocurek Sayra Martinka

Sherry Rakowitz Lisa Rozacky Irene Schwertner

to be different. We’re different because it makes a difference.

We’ve been a better kind of different for a long time.

Our difference shines in how we operate: We put our earnings back into communities and causes, not pockets. Members get life insurance and annuity products, and in doing so, help support scholarships, our Grief Support Session, local charities and more. That’s the kind of protection you can be proud of.

All year we will be highlighting our better kind of different because it makes us stand out in a crowd. We want others to see that it is possible to choose a unique type of organization

"Hugs from Home"

Give us the name and address of someone in the military who is deployed overseas and we will add them to our "Hugs from Home" list of care package recipients.

Name ______________________________________ Address Line 1 _______________________________ Address Line 2 _______________________________ Address Line 3 _______________________________ Deployment Dates ____________________________ Mail to: Hermann Sons Life Home Office, P.O. Box 1941, San Antonio, TX 78297-1941, Attention: Member Benefits Dept.

MEMORIAL DONATION FORM Name of Deceased:

Please print

Acknowledgement from Retirement Home Retirement Home Scholarship Fund

Camp Camp Scholarship Fund Grief Support Session at Camp

to go to: Name:

Please print

Address: City, State, Zip:

BUSINESS OPERATIONS COMMITTEE

Brad Dietrich Robert Herridge Tammy Jones Edward J. Muehlbrad

We’re a better kind of different For many of us, 2018 ushers in a fresh start and a new hope for something wonderfully different.

Growing up I remember not wanting to be different. Standing out in a crowd was, for me, not a good thing. It was safer to just fit in and be part of the crowd. Today it seems different is good. Everyone wants to be different.

Every day, companies task themselves with finding ways to be different. At Hermann Sons Life, we’re not different just

Doug Saathoff Laura Tiffin Lori Todd

Donor:

Please print

Address: City, State, Zip: Date:

Amount: $ Clip and mail with your memorial contribution to: Hermann Sons Home Office, P.O. Box 1941, San Antonio, TX 78297-1941.

that provides the financial protection you need now, with the added benefit of helping those in need.

Make 2018 a time to share our better difference with others.

Hermann Sons Life offers protection you can be proud of.

On behalf of the officers, directors and staff of the Hermann Sons Life Home Office, I wish you a very happy, prosperous and wonderfully different new year.

– Buddy Preuss President and CEO

Donations made for more ‘Hugs’ SAN ANTONIO – Donations continue to be made so that “Hugs from Home” can be sent to military personnel serving overseas.

The most recent donors were Hondo Victory Lodge, Boerne Lodge, Kevin and Ivy Willms, McGregor Lodge and Highland Lakes Lodge.

Send donations to: Hermann Sons Life, P.O. Box 1941, San Antonio, TX 78297-1941, Attention: Member Benefits Department.

If you know someone serving overseas who needs a “hug” complete the form to the left and send it to the Home Office.

Retirement Home Christmas Fund

The following lodges and individuals had made donations to the Retirement Home Christmas Fund as of Dec. 13: Coupland Niederwald Harry & Connie Schriber Stockdale Rowena El Paso Rosenberg-Richmond Bandera County McGregor Ellinger Deanville Orange Grove Rutersville Donations are used to buy a gift that all residents can enjoy.

January 2018 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 3

Food banks, VFD express gratitude SAN ANTONIO – Letters of thanks have been received at the Home Office for the Hurricane Harvey Disaster Relief Fund donations made to food banks and fire departments.

More than $20,000 was donated by lodges and individuals after the hurricane hit the Gulf Coast in August. The money was distributed to 10 food banks and fire departments. The most recent donors were Converse Lodge, Coupland Lodge and Laubach Lodge.

The first thank-you note came from the Bayside Volunteer Fire Department and reads as follows: “The members of the Bayside Volunteer Fire Department thank you for your generous donation to our department. Your donation will assist in the reconstruction of an auxiliary station lost during the storm.”

Two of the food banks sent thank-you notes.

The Central Texas Food Bank’s

letter said: “Because we’re one of the closest food banks to the coast that remained unharmed during the storm, we have been a key distribution point for disaster response and recovery.

“With your help, we’ve been able to purchase supplies to prepare emergency boxes of ready-to-eat items; send food and water to Houston and our partner agencies in the affected areas for distribution; pack and distribute emergency hygiene boxes to storm victims; and receive and store shipments of food for the affected food banks.

“Our relief efforts will continue, and we will adapt our response as the needs of the affected communities change. Your support provides tremendous relief as we help get the communities affected back on their feet.”

In his letter, Brian Greene, president and CEO of the Houston Food Bank, said, “Your donation to help those affected by

Hurricane Harvey enabled the Food Bank to distribute 22 million pounds of product - three times more than usual in the first month after landfall. As a result of generous donations like yours, the Houston Food Bank is equipped to continue providing food and supplies in the short term, and for many months to come. Donations will be used for disaster relief until this year’s needs are met, and any remaining funds will support ongoing hunger relief efforts. Your gift will ensure that those in need have access to nutritious meals now, and in the days ahead.”

Vice President of Member Benefits Kim Krueger said, “I wanted to share these thank-you letters with our members because these kind words were meant for all of those who made these donations possible. I am so proud of the impact Hermann Sons Life was able to make to help our neighbors along the coast.”

Events FEBRUARY APRIL 24 – Seguin Lodge will host its Second Food 7 – Make plans now to take part in the Eighth

Truck Festival at the lodge hall, 2918 W. Kingsbury St., from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. If you are interested in renting a space for a food truck or other vendor spot, contact Cheryl Gescheidle at 516-633-8384.

25-26 – Pershing Lodge members and guests will take an overnight trip to a casino.

For more information, call Terri Armstrong at 210-378-0319.

MARCH 9-10 – The annual Retirement Home Chili

and Bean Cook-off will be held at at the Home in Comfort. For details, see above.

24 – Comfort Lodge will sponsor a golf tournament to raise funds for the Grief Support Session at Hermann Sons Life Camp. The tournament will be held at The Buckhorn in Comfort. An entry form can be found on Pg. 8.

Annual Hermann Sons Youth Camp-Shannon Leigh Gaffney Scholarship Fund Tournament at Golf Club of Texas. Cost to play is $100 per person. The tournament will use a four-person scramble format. Registration will begin at 7:30 a.m. with an 8:30 a.m. shotgun start.

The entry fee includes green fees, range balls, one Mulligan per player, lunch and awards.

Sponsorship opportunities are available. Individuals can sponsor a hole for $100. Corporations can sponsor a hole for $175. Prizes will be awarded to each member of the top four teams and there will be prizes for the longest drive for men and women, closest to the pin and most accurate drive. Make a holein-one and go home with a $100 prize. Entry and payment deadline is March 31. Register online at hermannsonslife.org/golf. Call Jan Stone at 210-422-1952 for more information.

If you would like to see your lodge’s event listed here and in the Events section of the Hermann Sons Life website, call Kathie Ninneman, 210-226-9261, ext. 273, or 1-800-234-4124, ext. 273, or email kathien@hermannsonslife.org.

Editor/Communications Director Kathie Ninneman 210-226-9261, ext. 273 email: kathien@hermannsonslife.org Assistant Editor/Assistant Communications Director Elaine Soto 210-226-9261, ext. 279 email: elaines@hermannsonslife.org Fax: 1-888-443-3377 or 210-892-0252 Website: www.hermannsonslife.org All news articles and photographs should be mailed to: Editor, Hermann Sons Life, P.O. Box 1941, San Antonio, TX 78297-1941 or emailed to: kathien@hermannsonslife.org Deadline for each monthly issue is the 10th of the month of publication.

The Hermann Sons Life newspaper is an official publication of the Order of the Sons of Hermann in the State of Texas. The management and editorial policy of the newspaper shall be in the hands of the Grand President, and the Grand President shall have the authority to appoint a member or members of Hermann Sons as editor and/or business manager thereof (Art. 38, Grand Lodge Laws).

Page 4 – Hermann Sons Life – January 2018

Fund established to help Sutherland Springs Total donations stand at $6,610

SAN ANTONIO – The Home Office will be accepting donations until the end of the year for the Sutherland Springs First Baptist Church Memorial Fund .

At that time, all of the donations, including one from the Home Office, will be forwarded directly to the church .

As of Dec . 20, the total amount donated stood at $6,610 .

Since Nov . 21, the following individuals have made donations: Harry and Connie Schriber, Lola Landua, Leland Blank and Sallie Sheppard, Randy and Annette Roecker and Lisa and Charles Hassold .

Since Nov . 21, the following lodges

have made donations: Schulenburg, Niederwald, Gulf, Bexar, Helotes, Seguin and Boerne .

Donations can be mailed to: Hermann Sons Life, P .O . Box 1941, San Antonio, TX 78297-1941, Attn: Laura Adams . Please write Sutherland Springs on the memo line of your check . Donations can be made online by going to texashermannsons.org/first-baptist-church-sutherlandsprings-donation.

It has been confirmed that one Hermann Sons Life member died in the tragedy that occurred at the church . Another These crosses have been placed along the road leading to the Sutherland Springs First member was wounded .

Baptist Church as a reminder of the 26 lives that were lost on Sunday, Nov. 5.

Inside Lodge Reports Anton Wenzel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Austin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Bandera County . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Bellville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Bernardo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Boerne . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Brenham . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Cibolo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Columbia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Columbus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Comfort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Converse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Corpus Christi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

DaCosta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Dallas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

D’Hanis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

El Campo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Fort Worth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Fredericksburg . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Gay Hill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Harmonia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Hochheim-Prairie . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Hondo Victory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Houston . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Kerrville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Kirby . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Kypfer-Salge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

La Vernia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Lockhart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

33 20 21 12 23 19 21 33 24 34 32 25 23 32 25 23 23 34 22 15 23 16 20 20 12 28 30 33 15 17

Louise Schuetze . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Marion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Maxwell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

McGregor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Mission-Alamo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Montgomery County . . . . . . . . .

Moulton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Needville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

New Bielau . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

New Braunfels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Paige . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Paul Vogt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Pershing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Plum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Prinz Solms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Richland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Rosenberg-Richmond . . . . . . . .

Round Top . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Rutersville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

San Marcos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Schulenburg . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Seguin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Shelby . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Siemering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Spring Branch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Stockdale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Vineta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Wichita Falls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Yorktown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

26 29 33 33 18 31 14 28 20 31 19 27 28 27 13 31 26 19 29 22 16 30 18 13 18 14 17 25 32

Monthly Features 2 2 2 3 7-8 8 9 10 10

President’s Message Donations made to send ‘Hugs’ Memorial Donation Form Calendar of Events Pioneer Members Memorial donations Retirement Home News Medical Notes In Memoriam of Our Deceased Members

2 3 3 4 6 8

Retirement Home Christmas Fund donors Retirement Home Cook-off set for March 10 Recipients express thanks for donations Fund established to help church Board of Directors meeting summary Comfort golf tournament benefits Camp session

5 5 5 35

Top recommenders listed Time to consider a Hermann Sons Life annuity Current interest rates Listing of agents

11 11 11 36

Camp staff attends Christmas party Seguin dancers ride float in Christmas parade Answers to puzzles on Page 32 Shining Stars

New This Month

Marketing News

Youth in Action

ember f five uary.

Marketing

January 2018 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 5

Time to take another look at our annuities

By HARRY WERLAND Vice President of Finance TIM KOLBE Vice President of Marketing SAN ANTONIO – Over the past several weeks you may have heard advertisements regarding the negative aspects of owning an annuity. These advertisements probably pointed out the negative tax implications, restrictions on the availability of funds and the poor return on investment.

While these commercials are primarily aimed at variable annuities, Hermann Sons Life offers only fixed annuities. A variable annuity generally tracks your investment return to some stock index yield or other index. Our fixed annuity promises you an annual return that can be adjusted each year.

Hermann Sons Life annuity products are designed to work around the objections raised in these commercials, and offer good value where appropriate for persons choosing a fixed income investment vehicle.

The advantages of a fixed annuity with Hermann Sons Life are many but here are a few to consider.

Safety A Hermann Sons Life fixed, deferred annuity provides safety of principal because our products offer a minimum guaranteed rate of interest, currently at 1.5 percent, and are a simple safe conservative vehicle for growing your money. Hermann Sons Life annuities typically are the smart choice for the risk adverse investor, offering a logical alternative to CDs. Our five-year annuity offers 2.6 percent, while the nine-year offers 2.8 percent, which are attractive rates, with much lower minimum deposit requirements than most CDs. The investor looking to establish a qualified tax deferred annuity may do so with an initial deposit of as little as $500, or a maximum of $100,000 first year contribution ($20,000 per year thereafter).

Our non-qualified products can be established with as little as $2,500, or a maximum of $250,000 first year contribution ($150,000

per year thereafter).

Tax-deferral Annuities, like other retirement investment vehicles, grow taxdeferred. You earn interest every year, but unlike a CD you are not taxed for it. Qualified plans, like traditional IRAs, may allow you to deduct contributions from your gross annual income, thus decreasing your tax exposure. The advantage is that your savings grow faster than they would if your gains were taxed every year.

The longer you defer taxes, the better – especially if you plan to retire in a lower tax bracket. With the anticipated reduction of tax rates and higher standard deductions (waiting to be approved by Congress as of this writing), in the past this tax deferral has been beneficial to many annuity holders.

And, if in future years you prefer some other annuity product, it can be transferred to another deferred annuity while continuing its (tax) deferred status.

Stable rates Hermann Sons Life sets its rates using a conservative approach.

We strive for stability. The rate set by the company and current upon your annuity’s anniversary is the rate you will earn for the next year.

Every year provides an opportunity for rate increases. But don’t forget, we can never go lower than your contract’s guaranteed minimum rate. Those close to retirement can rollover qualified plan funds into an IRA, and not worry about adverse market fluctuations or being forced to alter plans for enjoying the future because you lost part of your nest egg.

What fees?

Many retirement plans have some sort of fee structure including front-loading, annual maintenance, administrative, management and change order fees. Our only fee is a $5 check fee for withdrawals on the nine-year annuity. Our agents earn a small three percent commission on first-year contributions only, which is not subtracted from your principle.

Use as a death benefit and avoid probate Not many people could get ex-

Current Interest Rates on New Life and Annuity Plans Flex Life Single and Modal Premium Products Current Non-Guaranteed Rate on Accumulation Account: 4.5% Current Guaranteed Rate: 2.5% Senior Adult Final Expense (SAFE) Plans Paid-up Additions on the Face Value: 2.5% Simple Qualified and Non- Qualified Annuities 5-Year Annuities* - Current: 2.6% - Guaranteed: 1.5% 9-Year Annuities** - Current: 2.8% - Guaranteed: 1.5% Contact a local agent or the Home Office at 877-437-6266 or 210-527-9113 for more information. * Refers to the surrender period in which penalties apply for early surrender ** Certain exceptions to early surrender apply; call home office for details

cited about a benefit triggered by your own demise, but annuities are famous for them. If you die while owning a fixed annuity, your money goes straight to the beneficiaries listed in your contract.

The money, because you name your own beneficiary, doesn’t go through probate (the legal process), where creditors and relatives can lay claim to it. The money goes directly to your beneficiary.

In addition, your spouse can invoke what is known as a spousal rollover, and your savings become their individual annuity. This does not trigger a taxable event.

Although an annuity death benefit may be a taxable event for the beneficiaries, it is a viable alternative to those who find themselves uninsurable due to age or poor health.

Retirement Income - Annuitize Like all annuity contracts, a fixed annuity can be converted to a retirement income stream. Although this option is the defining feature of annuities, few people know about it or care about it and even fewer use it.

Annuities are a good choice to consider if you are worried about outliving your available assets.

If you need the money after the first year you purchase the annuity, you can withdraw 10 percent per year penalty free during the early surrender penalty years (five or nine years, depending on the plan). This feature allows for some degree of liquidity in the first few years of the annity for unexpected

or expected financial needs, such as emergency house repairs or a vacation.

If you are looking for a conservative investment which is straightforward and easy to understand, offers a fixed rate of return with safety and stability of principle, al-

lows limited access to your funds for emergencies and provides low fees, a Hermann Sons Life fixed annuity may fit your needs.

Call your area agent or the Home Office today, and we’ll be glad to discuss how our annuities can be a smart investment choice.

Schellenberg wins gift card for recommending The Marketing Department is recognizing 21 recommenders for the month of November. This brings the total to 473 members recommending 628 new members to Hermann Sons Life in 2017. The winner of the $100 gift card for November is Steve Schellenberg from Dallas Lodge.

Congratulations to the following November recommenders: Recommender Agent Robert Beckmann, Fredericksburg Lodge Dennis Henke Barbara D’Spain, Boerne Lodge Marilyn Vogt Elisabeth Gardner, Comfort Lodge Carl Behrendt Rosa Hollingsworth, Pershing Lodge Teresa Saathoff Carl Howk, Giddings Lodge Sandra Jones Janice Howk, Giddings Lodge Sandra Jones Donna Kennedy, Bernardo Lodge Terrel Maertz Lillian Kosub, La Vernia Lodge Marlin Tanneberger Gizeh Marotta, Anton Wenzel Lodge Emma Moya Laura Muehlbrad, Burton Lodge Linda Mattocks Aubrey Nichols, La Vernia Lodge Marlin Tanneberger Sherry Noak, Rutersville Lodge Linda Mattocks Lovell Pittman Jr., La Coste Lodge Glenford Boehme Buddy Preuss, Comfort Lodge Norma Bruns Dalyn Schriewer, New Braunfels Lodge Gary Falkenberg Linda Schulze, Bexar Lodge Lisa Rozacky Hiliary Woller, Louise Schuetze Lodge Eulla Krueger Howard Woller, Siemering Lodge Eulla Krueger Paul Gescheidle, Seguin Lodge Annette Roecker A.A. Schellenberg Jr., Dallas Lodge Teresa Saathoff Stephen Schellenberg, Dallas Lodge (^) Teresa Saathoff (^) Recommended 3 new members

Page 6 – Hermann Sons Life – January 2018

Summary of Board minutes from Aug. 7-8

What follows is a summary of the meeting of the Hermann Sons Life Board of Directors held Aug. 7-8, 2017.

Monday, Aug. 7, 2017

After a full day of reviewing educational material, Chair of the Board Sandra Jones called the meeting to order on Monday, Aug. 7, 2017, at 3:40 p.m. at the Hermann Sons Life Home Office with all members and Vice President of Operations and COO Samantha Schulmeier, acting as corporate secretary, present.

Strategic Planning Committee Chair David Wolf was invited to lead the report of the Strategic Planning Committee meeting held at the Home Office July 20-21. He discussed the SWOT plan created and indicated how impressed he was with the preparedness and input of the staff involved.

President Preuss gave his quarterly verbal report to the Board of Directors highlighting the branding and name transition, upcoming required endorsement mail-out and the Communication Plan. He also gave a very positive update of how Vice President Schulmeier has been performing in her new role and briefed everyone on the recent selection of a new company legal counsel.

President Preuss explained that the administrative assistant to the president and CEO would continue to handle paperwork and legwork for all vice presidents and directors just as a human resources representative would, and would eventually absorb the duties of maintaining all employee benefits.

He also passed out a Company Vehicle Cost Analysis he had prepared at the request of the Board and it was noted by several board members that, based on the report, the current method of owning company vehicles was overall more cost effective than leasing or reimbursing for use of personal vehicles.

Board Chair Jones concluded the meeting for the day.

Tuesday, Aug. 8, 2017

Board Chair Jones called the meeting to order on Tuesday, Aug. 8, 2017, at 8:34 a.m. at the Hermann Sons Life Home Office with all members and Vice President of Operations and COO Samantha Schulmeier, acting as corporate secretary, present.

Vice President of Finance and CFO Harry Werland was given the floor to give his quarterly verbal report to the Board.

Vice President Werland explained that overall bond rates have generally been less than 4 percent lately, reflecting that the short-term interest rate increase has not had much impact on our investment options. Therefore, he has not purchased many bonds recently. Vice President Werland explained how reinsurance on term policies works and that we have a self-insured medical plan. We have reported fewer expenses so far this year due to a decrease in advertising costs, a more cost-effective Agents’ Awards Banquet, Convention coming in under budget and a decrease in death claims paid in comparison to last year. There is a small loss pending from stock currently invested in an oil drilling company, an impairment that has been on the watch list.

The 2016 Audit Report was reviewed and overall it was determined that the auditors did not find much as zero major issues were reported. Board Member Mike Beam congratulated Vice President Werland on a job well done and the Board voted to accept the 2016 Audit Report and retain the same audit company for this year. Vice President Werland also proposed that he request the audit company give some direction on what an Audit Committee of an insurance company should typically review and report on to more accurately define the Committee’s duties.

The Board examined the Hermann Sons Life Investment Plan Statement discussing duties, approval requirements and guidelines on how to maintain a diversified, high quality port-

folio. It was decided that board chair signature should be added to the Plan.

Board Chair Jones invited Vice President of Operations and COO Samantha Schulmeier to begin her quarterly verbal report to the Board. Vice President Schulmeier gave a brief synopsis of recent changes in department structure and duties and the opening of an underwriting assistant position.

She explained she had been assigned as owner to two different action plans during the recent strategic planning meetings. She also spoke about the future of expanding customer service technology by potentially offering more options electronically such as credit card, debit card and e-check payments online, by phone or in person, offering electronic applications for agents, oneclick insurance products and member and agent portals.

Features of all of these depend heavily on whether a new or upgraded form of policy administration system is obtained.

Vice President Schulmeier gave insight into some of the decisions currently being discussed by the Bylaws of Local Lodges Committee, of which she is the chair, and handed out updated Corporate Resolutions for approval. Vice President Schulmeier concluded her report by asking if anyone had any questions regarding any of the information provided.

Board Chair Jones gave the floor to Vice President of Member Benefits Kim Krueger to give her quarterly verbal report to the Board. Vice President Krueger cited final attendance numbers for the recently concluded 2017 Camp season.

She suggested several ways attendance could be boosted in the future and indicated she was researching how the facilities could be better utilized in the off-season. Vice President Krueger relayed information regarding upcoming implementation of a wastewater treatment plant with sewer system that will run from Hermann

Sons Road to Center Point and how she feels that may impact the properties in Comfort. The Board made many positive comments regarding Vice President Krueger’s research and conclusion on the sewer and septic topic. Recent Retirement Home inquiries and local lodge subsidies also were expanded on.

Vice President Krueger reported on the idea of installing local lodge presidents via letter and allowing them to install all other lodge officers in lieu of holding regional installations across the state. She suggested we hold one catchall event designed to replace officer workshops, installations and statewide rally that would include an educational aspect as well as a social component such as a dance. The Board was very impressed with the idea and how much money it will save the company and voted to move forward with having one defined event with education and fellowship in lieu of installations, a statewide rally and officer workshops separately with installation instructions being sent to each local lodge president empowering them to install their own officers.

Vice President of Marketing Tim Kolbe was invited to give his quarterly verbal report to the Board. Vice President Kolbe reviewed the production report, discussed postponements and declines and underwriting procedures on new applications and approvals. He elaborated on the Marketing presence at various events such as Convention in San Marcos in May and the Shining Stars event at Schlitterbahn in June and spoke about the new agent orientation process and licensing. Agent licensing options were discussed at length, as well as a membership drive taking place this fall that focuses on dance classes citing it as a new attempt to market to existing members and their families. He also explained that for the last couple of years he has been actively investigating

who our next actuarial firm will be and is continuing to do so along with researching the new Commissioners Standard Ordinary (CSO) Mortality Tables that came out this year and Department of Labor regulation updates. The Board requested Vice President Kolbe compile several specific cost analysis breakdowns and have them available for discussion at the November Board meeting.

Since all officers had concluded giving their quarterly verbal reports, the vice presidents were excused with the exception of Vice President Schulmeier who was requested to continue to serve as corporate secretary.

Subsidies were discussed and a motion to pay the budgeted $2 per member in good standing rate this year passed.

Board Chair Jones requested board member mail receptacles be instituted in the mailroom to save postage.

There was lengthy debate regarding potentially altering some of the verbiage in the Laws of Hermann Sons Life. Ultimately, it was decided not to make any changes at this time.

President Preuss spoke on employee salary information as previously requested by the Board. He stressed extreme confidentiality and reports were passed out to each individual board member for review.

Board Chair Jones encouraged everyone to mark their calendars for the following meeting dates: • Board of Directors Meeting – Nov. 20-21, 2017 • Audit Committee Meeting 8:30 a.m. on Nov. 20, 2017 • Enterprise Risk Management Committee Meeting – 1 p.m. on Nov. 20, 2017 • Board of Directors Meeting – Feb. 5-6, 2018 • Board of Directors Meeting May 7-8, 2018 • Board of Directors Meeting – Aug. 6-7, 2018 • Board of Directors Meeting – Nov. 12-13, 2018 There being no further business the meeting adjourned.

75 Years

curt j. saur Kypfer-Salge Lodge

70 Years

beverly P. oeltjen Austin Lodge betty j. wikoff Corpus Christi Lodge

Pioneers evelyn s. kuhn Vineta Lodge

michael bruce lenert Orange Grove Lodge

michael a. brotze Kypfer-Salge Lodge

beverly e. woods Yorktown Lodge

dorothy marie wiede Pershing Lodge

brian n. crawford Marion Lodge

60 Years

steven w. markwardt Round Top Lodge

david w. malaer margaret d. malaer Paul Vogt Lodge

diana l. oteter Bernardo Lodge

dennis w. Peters Cuero Family Lodge

august william hodde jr. charles bruce randermann Brenham Lodge

lillie mae hosek robert b. wehmeyer Da Costa Lodge

eldridge w. brasher thomas edward gee Columbia Lodge

edward menville jr. diana fay sokol Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge

gregory c. chaPman Corpus Christi Lodge

glen c. smith El Campo Lodge

kent e. hilbrich Cuero Family Lodge robert c. telschow Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge

marilyn a. marek Ellinger Lodge

linda louise weynand Fredericksburg Lodge

clinton joe staudt Fredericksburg Lodge

lexie m. rothbauer Jackson County Lodge

mary ruth crockett General Bee Lodge

frances kemPe Karnes City Lodge

frances ann bendele elaine t. gardner Louise Schuetze Lodge adeline i. schubert betty jean wisian Niederwald Lodge alfreda l. Pennington ethelyn ann richter Poth Lodge alois keilers Rutersville Lodge jean otten schimcek Schulenburg Lodge harold morrison Schwertner Lodge

January 2018 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 7

jeffery meyer Siemering Lodge evelyn e. welsch Stern Lodge david lee balderson Taylor Lodge linda sue steen brenda k. whitley Vineta Lodge Patricia ann collins Waco-Robinson Lodge nelson wayne mahan Yorktown Lodge

50 Years timothy e. marks Anton Wenzel Lodge

keith william blohm Kypfer-Salge Lodge

irene catherine cox D’Hanis Lodge

george m. hilbig Mission-Alamo Lodge david wayne schwarz garry lee schwarz New Braunfels Lodge gary walter butschek Nordheim Lodge

daniel j. muehlstein Shiner Lodge joyce f. redmond robert l. rose Siemering Lodge

Emmie Overton of Lubbock has received her 70-year membership pin. Emmie is a member of Haskell Lodge. She joined on July 6, 1947.

judith k. gay Vineta Lodge joyce ann bower Yorktown Lodge dana lynn kutz darren d. luensmann Zuehl Lodge

kendall arthur bergmann Comfort Lodge troy edward richter Corpus Christi Lodge

karen anette busch cynthia a. granato gladys mae heisler Louise Schuetze Lodge

jeffery a. bednarz Poth Lodge

kirby neal bryant Cibolo Lodge

natalie k. mikes Kirby Lodge

rosanna marie gilliam s.n. schlichting Laubach Lodge

neil thomas keller thomas charles zoch Pershing Lodge

Jodie Hoyak has received his 70-year membership pin. Jodie lives in Bryan and is a member of Bryan Lodge. He joined on Nov. 15, 1947.

leah kaye boomer tracey leigh griffith david m. hickman susan monica hickman Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge hugo wehmeyer jr.

Flatonia Lodge david allen james darrell w. theis Harmonia Lodge kristin w. albrecht Karnes City Lodge michelle hannah Kerrville Lodge

(ABOVE) Doris Hauser of Lincoln, Rhode Island, has received her 70-year membership pin. Doris is a member of McGregor Lodge.

She joined on March 22, 1947.

(RIGHT) Shirley Callahan has received her 60-year membership pin. Shirley lives in Sealy and is a member of Sealy Lodge. She has been a member since Sept.

9, 1957.

Page 8 – Hermann Sons Life – January 2018

Herbert E. Caffey Jr. has received his 60-year membership pin.

Herbert lives in Kingwood and is a member of Montgomery County Lodge. He joined on June 20, 1957.

Janice Ripple of Claude has received her 60-year membership pin. Janice is a member of Deanville Lodge. She joined on Oct. 11, 1957.

Dixie Foster Bane has received her 60-year membership pin. Dixie is a member of Louise Schuetze Lodge and lives in Schertz.

She joined on April 15, 1957.

Donations Donations to the Retirement Home in Memory of: BENNIE R. AUSTIN LETA MAE CERNEY ENRIQUE GUERRERO MILDRED L. HARTMAN WILLIAM F. PALITZA MERCEDES ROSALES LOTTE A. ROUCH SYLVESTER RUTKOWSKI A.N. TABBERER SR. CHESTER J. WACLAWCZYK JOYCE JEANNE WADE JAMES E. HASSOLD JIMMIE DON TART Donor: Pershing Lodge LELA MAE FIELDS Donors: Rick & Lorraine Griffin Highland Lakes Lodge ARBIE O. CORNELL Donor: Coupland Lodge

AUGUST BLANK MARILYN E. LOGAN Donor: Da Costa Lodge ROBERT (BOB) ANDERSON Donors: Billie DeSalme Roland & Cheryl Collier Douglas & Patricia Feuge Juanita Suggs Beverly Anderson Willie Mae Pyle Peggy J. Allen Rosie Lee Franklin John & Helen Widner Ross & Betty Murphy Susan S. McGuire Myrtle A. Kirchhoff Martha Willems Albert C. Schroeder

Donations to the Retirement Home Scholarship Fund in Memory of: ROBERT (BOB) ANDERSON Donor: Joyce Liberato

Donations to the Grief Support Camp: DonoRS: Louise Schuetze Lodge Bandera County Lodge

Shirley Huckelba of Adkins has received her 60-year membership pin. Shirley is a member of Louise Schuetze Lodge. She joined on Aug. 9, 1957.

Brenda Gavlick of San Antonio has received her 60-year membership pin. Brenda is a member of Louise Schuetze Lodge. She joined on Nov. 5, 1957.

January 2018 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 9

Retirement Home

Residents welcome visitors, prepare for holidays COMFORT – Visitors to the Retirement Home in November were Fran Awbrey, San Antonio; A.E. Nelson, Fredericksburg, Comfort Lodge; Mary Helen Boxwell, Poteet, Comfort Lodge; Beth Cameron, Cammack Village, Ark.; Dawn Way-Taylor, Houston, Wichita Falls Lodge; David Wolf, Board of Directors; Colton Shoemake, Bob and Elsie Anderson’s great-grandson; Priscilla Nafegar and mom, Houston; Robert Boring; Charles McAnelly, McGregor, McGregor Lodge; Phil McAnelly, Lexington, Kentucky, McGregor Lodge; Mary and Dana Hall, Oakview,

Calif.; Shirley Schaefer, Bandera, Bandera County Lodge; Chris Barlow, Lake Hills; and Judy and Bill Bolin, Porter.

Resident Loretta Ellerbee has moved away to be with her family. We wish her good health and happiness. Her friends will miss her.

Anglican Priest David Guthrie with Al Schroeder assisting conducted chapel service and Holy Communion on Nov. 26. Kathy Bender played the piano.

We welcome new housekeeper Paula Ayers and hope she enjoys working at the Home.

– Helen Widner

On Nov. 11, residents Kathy Bender, Don Raines and Cowboy Al Schroeder held a jam session in the Rec Room so Al’s great-nephew, Roddy Arnold, could play with them.

The audience for the Nov. 11 jam session included, from left, residents Ross and Betty Murphy, Myrtle Kirchhoff, Vernell Homilius, Willa Mae Pyle, Beverly Anderson and Cheryll Cain.

Kathy Bender celebrated her 88th birthday on Nov. 18.

Kathy says she has spent 22 of those birthdays here at the Home.

The Home staff “gave it their all” to provide Thanksgiving dinner at the Home. Manager Brenda Gunnink prepped the turkey and dressing and kitchen helper Connie Schladoer baked pumpkin and pecan pies. Then Assistant Manager Brenda Treiber, cook Barbara Kisselburg and kitchen helper Brandy Roberts put together the menu of turkey, ham, mashed potatoes, gravy, green bean casserole, cranberry sauce, hot rolls and pie. The cleanup committee consisted of John Kisselburg, Danny Beard, Brenda Treiber and husband Ralph.

Thanks go to all of them for their hard work and being away from their own loved ones on such a wonderful holiday.

Down with autumn and Thanksgiving decorations and up with Christmas trees. Staff member Brandy Roberts and daughter Shyanna put together the rotunda tree.

Resident Jane Haberman and her friend, Cissy Calhoun from Marble Falls, shared Thanksgiving with other residents. Jane furnished wine Residents Joyce Liberato and Roland Collier celfor the meal. ebrated November birthdays.

This Saw Tooth Maple tree was donated and planted by staff members in memory of resident Bob Anderson who passed away Nov. 15. Funeral services were held on Nov. 18 in the chapel of the Schaetter Funeral Home in Comfort. Graveside services and interment followed in the Hermann Sons Retirement Home Cemetery. Anglican Priest David Guthrie conducted the services.

Fellowship followed in the Recreation Room of the Home. Bob’s happy, smiling face and friendly attitude is sorely missed.

Page 10 – Hermann Sons Life – January 2018

Medical Notes strength or well-being. Rather, in this phrase, attributed to Herbert Spencer and later to Charles Darwin, fittest referred to those who were best suited to their environment, or more plainly, those who were best able to survive. Today, it can mean anyone who is able to rise above the odds against them or beat the competition.

“Strong as an ox” The idiom “strong as an ox” has long represented a person who

is unusually strong and able to persevere. Because oxen are large beasts of burden that were used instead of horses by American settlers, anyone compared to an ox would have to be someone capable of strong physical labor.

“An apple a day keeps the doctor away” According to Snopes, the first known version of this proverb comes from Wales in 1866 and stated, “eat an apple on going to

bed, and you’ll keep the doctor from earning his bread.” Other sources trace the phrase to ancient Rome. Apples can have many health benefits, but no research has confirmed that eating an apple daily will safeguard individuals from any particular illness.

A 2015 study published in JAMA Internal Medicine did find that people who ate an apple required fewer prescription medications than those who did not.

Language is shaped by many different influences. Over time, certain phrases become part of the vernacular and are spoken to signify how one acts or feels, including phrases about health and well-being.

“Fit as a Fiddle” The phrase “fit as a fiddle” is often used to describe someone who is very healthy and full of energy.

But what does fitness have to do with an instrument, anyway? Ac-

tually, very little. According to The Phrase Finder, “fit” didn’t originally mean healthy. It was actually used to represent the words “suitable and seemly.” Therefore, something that is fit as a fiddle would mean it was suitable for its purpose.

Now “fit” frequently refers to one’s physical shape, and the phrase has evolved.

“Survival of the fittest” Again, the word “fittest” initially did not represent physical

dora alvina wyatt La Vernia Lodge Died Oct. 16, 2014 • Age 92

john chometa Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge Died Aug. 27, 2017 • Age 92

clarence m. meyer Cuero Family Lodge Died Oct. 3, 2017 • Age 53

warren w. sallach jr.

Brenham Lodge Died Oct. 14, 2017 • Age 66

daniel hohenberger Fredericksburg Lodge Died Oct. 24, 2017 • Age 100

eddie lafayette wyatt La Vernia Lodge Died Oct. 25, 2014 • Age 95

robert wellmann Brenham Lodge Died Aug. 29, 2017 • Age 91

june r. wells Louise Schuetze Lodge Died Oct. 6, 2017 • Age 90

c.m. english jr.

Siemering Lodge Died Oct. 14, 2017 • Age 75

helen kainer roddam Schulenburg Lodge Died Oct. 25, 2017 • Age 93

william g. urban Gruenau Lodge Died June 18, 2016 • Age 97

lola m. herbort Fredericksburg Lodge Died Aug. 30, 2017 • Age 98

gerald w. eckel Poth Lodge Died Oct. 6, 2017 • Age 63

lela mae fields Seguin Lodge Died Oct. 14, 2017 • Age 85

daniel g. Plate Zuehl Lodge Died Oct. 27, 2017 • Age 60

james andrew dawson Austin Lodge Died Aug. 23, 2016 • Age 65

mollie neuse wranitzky Lockhart Lodge Died Sept. 2, 2017 • Age 94

roland j. boysen Poth Lodge Died Oct. 6, 2017 • Age 88

luella havlik Hochheim-Prairie Lodge Died Oct. 14, 2017 • Age 95

don n. wager Bryan Lodge Died Oct. 28, 2017 • Age 76

dorothy m. brietzke Kypfer-Salge Lodge Died Dec. 2, 2016 • Age 83

carlene kay butler Brunhilde Lodge Died Sept. 8, 2017 • Age 81

lewis f. gimbel jr.

Helotes Lodge Died Oct. 7, 2017 • Age 86

r.n. tabberer sr.

Pershing Lodge Died Oct. 15, 2017 • Age 84

sharon e. cernosek Schulenburg Lodge Died Oct. 28, 2017 • Age 67

marguerite l. marlatt Austin Lodge Died June 27, 2017 • Age 75

mabel r. schielack La Grange Lodge Died Sept. 11, 2017 • Age 90

june nell garner Yorktown Lodge Died Oct. 8, 2017 • Age 97

walter carl dedeke Maxwell Lodge Died Oct. 15, 2017 • Age 86

herman a. befeld jr.

Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge Died Oct. 28, 2017 • Age 80

deanna e. hoffman Castroville Lodge Died Aug. 3, 2017 • Age 72

milton lindemann Harmonia Lodge Died Sept. 14, 2017 • Age 82

louis sPann Shiner Lodge Died Oct. 10, 2017 • Age 83

helen m. farley Louise Schuetze Lodge Died Oct. 19, 2017 • Age 93

james e. hassold Pershing Lodge Died Oct. 30, 2017 • Age 89

c. huntley orth Austin Lodge Died Aug. 9, 2017 • Age 74

robert e. manning Hochheim-Prairie Lodge Died Sept. 15, 2017 • Age 81

danny irvin crocker Bryan Lodge Died Oct. 11, 2017 • Age 79

john charles dubose Gonzales Lodge Died Oct. 22, 2017 • Age 83

erika hindman Brunhilde Lodge Died Oct. 31, 2017 • Age 90

lydia e. boenig New Braunfels Lodge Died Aug. 11, 2017 • Age 85

melvin e. rosenquist Old Glory Lodge Died Sept. 16, 2017 • Age 90

ivan e. Pfeil Shiner Lodge Died Oct. 13, 2017 • Age 82

bobbie l. koch Louise Schuetze Lodge Died Oct. 22, 2017 • Age 96

eric f. heydenreich Harmonia Lodge Died Nov. 3, 2017 • Age 87

edwin e. zaPalac Flatonia Lodge Died Aug. 16, 2017 • Age 89

bernice P. vogt Da Costa Lodge Died Sept. 20, 2017 • Age 97

eleanor a. simPton Del Rio Lodge Died Oct. 13, 2017 • Age 73

leta mae cerney Pershing Lodge Died Oct. 23, 2017 • Age 96

joe c. jeffers Laubach Lodge Died Nov. 9, 2017 • Age 89

corey tyler raab Harmonia Lodge Died Aug. 23, 2017 • Age 30

louise stoever Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge Died Sept. 21, 2017 • Age 95

helen joyce murray Kirby Lodge Died Oct. 13, 2017 • Age 73

william a. sahm Siemering Lodge Died Oct. 23, 2017 • Age 86

The names of deceased members are listed on this page only after a death claim has been filed.

In Memoriam of Our Deceased Members

henry huebner Seguin Lodge Died Sept. 28, 2017 • Age 102

evelyn sPiegelhauer Da Costa Lodge Died Oct. 24, 2017 • Age 97

Youth in Action

January 2018 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 11

Camp staff celebrates Christmas

Several staff members got into the holiday spirit for the party.

Displaying the best spirit at the party was, center, Shalie “Noodles” West.

She is pictured here with fellow staff members Shelby “Monk” Gould and Lindee “Pi” Fiedler.

There is a saying at Camp, “Camp friends are the best friends.”

Catching up at the Christmas party were Jack Richsion, Carli “POP$” Bartell, Joey Albor, Bryce Sorbel, Erin “Holla” Rose and Kristen “Dyno” Vineyard.

On Saturday, Dec. 16, Hermann Sons Life Camp employees from summer 2017 gathered at the Hilltop Camp for the annual staff Christmas party. More than 50 staff members attended. During the party, $400 was collected for the Children’s Bereavement Center of South Texas. The money will be used to buy canvases and paint that the center needs for its programming during the school year. The Children’s Bereavement Center provides the therapists for the Camp’s Grief Support Session.

An annual tradition at the party is for staff members to decorate an ornament and then add each summer they work to it. Placing their ornaments on the tree are, from left, junior counselors Connor “Bay” Pharris, Stefan “Ste-FUH” Garza and James Guyon.

Answers for puzzles on Page 36 Across 1. Snowman 5. Snow 8. Ice 9. Winter 10. Vacation 12. Snowflakes Down 2. Mittens 3. December 4. Scarf 6. New Year 7. Sking 11. Cold

Seguin School of Dance features float in parade The Seguin School of Dance sponsored an appearance by the Hermann Sons Life float in the Seguin Christmas parade in early December. This was one of the first times the float had appeared in a parade since it was refurbished to reflect the Hermann Sons Life name.

Page 12 – Hermann Sons Life – January 2018

Bellville delivers fruit bowls to nursing homes

BELLVILLE – Bellville Lodge met Oct. 23 at the Sens Center in Bellville.

Patsy Marek prepared a meatloaf and other members brought side dishes and desserts.

The Cheer Committee reported that cards were sent to members Betty Krueger, Floyd Lamp

and Milford Gross.

Allene Porter has a new greatgranddaughter.

President Marie Herridge reported that the lodge had received a certificate in recognition of its Join Hands Day project.

In observe of Make a Differ-

ence Day, members agreed to put together bowls of fruit and send them to Colonial Bell Nursing Home, Briarwood Nursing Home and Rose Hill Assisted Living.

The current officers were reelected for 2018.

– Laura Schumann

Celebrating recent birthdays were Bellville Lodge members, from left, Gladys Ueckert, Herbert Schumann, Jo Ann Hinze and Allene Porter.

Bellville Lodge delivered bowls of fruit to the local nursing homes in observance of Make a Difference Day. Preparing the gifts were, back, from left, Allene Porter, Patsy Marek, Emily Pfeffer, front, Marie Herridge and, not pictured, Allen Hintz and Laura Schumann.

Celebrating recent anniversaries from Bellville Lodge were, from left, Emily and Sammy (not pictured) Pfeffer, Marie and Robert (not pictured) Herridge and Herbert and Laura Schumann.

Houston Lodge to present attendance prizes Jan. 8 HOUSTON – Houston Lodge will meet Jan. 8 at the Sokol Hall, 1314 West Patton.

Social time starts at 6 p.m.

The meal will be served at 7 p.m. with the meeting to follow. All members are asked to attend so they can help in the planning of meetings and other events in 2018.

A potluck meal is planned so bring enough food for your family and extra to share with other members.

The prizes for attending meetings in 2017 will be awarded.

The November meeting was well attended with a traditional Thanksgiving meal of turkey, ham and the trimmings catered

by Hickory Hollow Restaurant.

The annual Christmas dinner also was well attended. Members met at the Back Yard Grill for a meal.

More details will be available in the next issue of the Hermann Sons Life newspaper.

Also check the website hermannsonslife.org/lodges/ houston for any updates to meetings and activities. Meeting times and locations could change so check the website for updates. You can also go to Hermann Sons Life Houston to keep up to date.

At the November meeting, members were informed that Past President Milton Fuchs had been in the hospital and is presently at a rehabilitation facility in the Heights.

Celebrating anniversaries from Houston Lodge in November were, from left, Jack and Catherine Manchack, 42 years, and Darlene and James Ellison, 51 years.

Angie Januszewski, Catherine Manchack, Jack Manchack, Gary Falkenberg and Lavina

Patterson prizes.

won

attendance – Reporter

Pat Bushman, vice president of Houston Lodge, celebrated a birthday in November.

January 2018 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 13

Siemering celebrates with barge ride, party Prinz Solms, Spring Branch hold Christmas party Audrey Halm Klabunde is the recipient of the 2017 Humanitarian Award for Prinz Solms Lodge. She is pictured with lodge President Clifton Klabunde, who also happens to be her husband. The award was presented at the lodge’s joint Christmas party with Spring Branch Lodge. Everyone enjoyed a catered meal from Bill Miller Barbecue. The next meeting will be held Sunday, Jan. 14, at 5 p.m. at the Bulverde Community Center.

Vice President of Finance Harry Werland, right, presents a 70-year membership pin to Harvey Rehfeld at the Siemering Lodge Christmas party. Harvey lives in San Antonio and has been a member since March 15, 1947.

Children attending the Prinz Solms Lodge Christmas party got a chance to visit with Santa Claus.

Kenneth Piper, left, received his 60-year membership pin from Vice President of Finance Harry Werland during the Siemering Lodge Christmas party. Kenneth lives in San Antonio and has been a member since Oct. 1, 1957.

SAN ANTONIO – Members of Siemering Lodge celebrated Christmas on Dec. 12. Members and their guests gathered on the barge dock and enjoyed a ride down the San Antonio River floating through historical sites and beautiful lights. Afterwards everyone met back at the Rathskeller for a tamale dinner with all the trimmings and lots of sweets.

Vice President of Finance Harry Werland presented a 70-year membership pin to Harvey Rehfeld and a 60-year pin to Kenneth Piper.

Gifts were exchanged among visitors from the Home Office, Vineta, Louise Schuetze, Kirby, Harmonia, Pershing and Helotes lodges.

Several new prospects were received.

At the January gathering members will be working on the calendar for 2018. Members are encouraged to attend and bring their ideas to keep the momentum going. Be sure to wear silver and gold.

Dinner and dessert will be provided by Sharon Fite to celebrate her birthday. Plans are for roasted pork loin and side dishes.

– Augusta Fite

Dancers from the Hill Country School of Dance entertained at the Prinz Solms Lodge Christmas party.

The students from the Hill Country School of Dance who performed at the Prinz Solms Lodge Christmas party pose for a photo on stage.

Several members and guests attending the Siemering Lodge Christmas party celebrate their birthday in December.

Page 14 – Hermann Sons Life – January 2018

Stockdale presents membership pins, donates toys

Stockdale Lodge President Ronald Wiatrek, right, and Vice President of Member Benefits Kim Krueger, left, visited the Argent Court Assisted Living facility recently to present Irene Baumann with her 75-year membership pin. Also present was her daughter, Betty Hernandez. Irene has been a member since Aug. 22, 1942.

Norvel Lynn Jr., second from right, received his 50-year membership pin at the Nov. 15 holiday outing hosted by Stockdale Lodge.

Pictured with him are, from left, Vice President of Member Benefits Kim Krueger, wife Jackie, and lodge President Ronald Wiatrek. Norvel has been a member since Dec. 12, 1967.

Vice President of Member Benefits Kim Krueger, left, got to present 60-year membership pins to her parents, Alton and Eileen Schneider, at the Nov. 15 holiday outing hosted by Stockdale Lodge. President Ronald Wiatrek assisted in the presentation. Alton has been a member since Aug. 13, 1957. Eileen joined on Oct. 1, 1957.

Members of Stockdale Lodge brought toys to the holiday outing held Nov. 15 at Lew’s Patio and Grill in Floresville. The toys were donated to the Sheriff Santa project

Moulton Lodge makes donations, elects 2018 officers MOULTON – Members attending the November meeting of Moulton Lodge approved four charitable donations. The donations will go to the Retirement Home Christmas Fund, the Moulton Junior Livestock Show, Shady Oaks Nursing Home and the Sutherland Springs Baptist Church Fund established by the Home Office.

Officers for 2018 were elected.

Special guest from the Home Office was Vice President of Finance Harry Werland.

A catered meal of baked chicken, dressing, mashed potatoes and green beans was served.

Members provided the desserts.

– Reporter

Moulton Lodge made donations to the Blue Santa Program at the November meeting. Charles Greive, back, accepted the gifts from, from left, Dylan Celebrating November birthdays at the Moulton Lodge meeting Orsak, Jillian Anderle, Lindsey Orsak, Addison Greive, Judson Anderle and were, from left, John Koch, James Orsak, Addison Greive and JilRiley Preiss. lian Anderle.

January 2018 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 15

La Vernia elects officers, installation set for Jan. 21 LA VERNIA – La Vernia Lodge elected its 2018 officers at the Nov. 19 meeting. The officers will be installed Sunday, Jan. 21, at 4 p.m. The lodge’s 2018 activities and goals will be discussed and planned.

All members are encouraged to attend. If you plan to attend, call Sharon Tanneberger at 830-7794641 or 210-827-0526 no later than Jan. 15 with the number of those planning to attend.

The officers will be Charles Stork, president; Marlin Tanneberger, vice president; Sharon Tanneberger, corresponding secretary/financial secretary; Elaine Schnitz, treasurer; Charles Haese, Jeanie Walpole and Lucy Schott, financial trustees; Lucy Schott, communications coordinator; Beth Brooks, youth coordinator; Marlin Tanneberger, membership coordinator; and Charles Stork, community coordinator.

Pastor Robert Palan and wife Sherry attended the La Vernia Lodge Christmas party where Pastor Palan gave the blessing.

The Social and Food Committee will include Candy Stork, Beth Brooks, Elaine Schnitz and Sharon and Marlin Tanneberger.

Sharon Tanneberger and Elaine Schnitz will serve on the Welcome and Registration Committee.

Thanks and appreciation were

extended to the outgoing officers and coordinators including Vice President Brent Recker (who also served on the Food and Social Committee and the Property Committee), Communications Coordinator Emmett Stork (who also served on the Property Committee) and Financial Trustee

Brent and Dianell Recker and Elaine Schnitz were among those attending the La Vernia Lodge Christmas party.

Randall Richter (who also served on the Property Committee).

Members approved a $500 donation to the victims of the Sutherland Springs Church shooting.

A German meal was served.

The annual Christmas party was held Dec. 10. The meal in-

cluded tamales, chili, rice and beans. Drinks and desserts also were served. The Social and Food Committee presented gifts to all the children in attendance and held a drawing for Christmas gifts in addition to the usual door prizes.

– Reporter

Fredericksburg to install officers at Jan. 2 meeting FREDERICKSBURG – Fortyeight members and guests attended the holiday celebration hosted by Fredericksburg Lodge on Tuesday, Dec. 5.

President Hans Enderlin read a holiday letter from the directors, officers and Home Office staff. The letter was a “year in review” and included highlights and accomplishments of Hermann Sons Life in 2017.

Hans also thanked those who helped with the preparations for the celebration, including Lola Enderlin and Margaret Priess who decorated the tree, Windy Duecker, Diann Jung and Ronnie Jung who decorated the hall, Lola Enderlin who served as the bartender and Pfiesster Catering for catering the meal.

Director Stan Steiger spoke briefly.

Windy Duecker was presented with the Humanitarian Award for 2017. She also received the award eight years ago. Windy has held the position of secretary-treasurer for the lodge for the past 20 years, and has made many other contributions to the lodge, her church and to the local community.

Windy Duecker is the recipient of the 2017 Humanitarian Award for Fredericksburg Lodge. President Hans Enderlin presented the award.

Virginia Pehl, Evangeline Yates, Lola Enderlin, Stanley Jenschke and Jay Mills went home with $20 gift cards.

The next meeting will be held Jan. 2. Lodge officers will be installed. The meal will feature sandwiches. Members are

asked to bring sandwiches, which have been labeled. Officers are asked to bring a bag of chips. For more information, contact Hans Enderlin at 830895-1343 or Windy Duecker at 830-997-2983.

– Reporter

Celebrating December birthdays from Fredericksburg Lodge were, from left, Sandy Fisk, Virginia Pehl, Elgin Tatsch and, not pictured, Darin Duecker.

Page 16 – Hermann Sons Life – January 2018

Schulenburg presents award, membership pins

SCHULENBURG – Schulenburg Lodge held its annual Christmas party on Dec. 9 with 70 members and guests present.

Director Michael Beam presented 60-year membership pins to Frank Bohlmann, a member since June 5, 1957; Violet Hollas, a member since Sept. 5, 1957; Arnold Berger, a member since Sept. 11, 1957; Gladys Janda, a member since Oct. 1, 1957; and Gary McBride, a member since Dec. 13, 1957.

A 75-year pin was presented to Nordhausen Stoever of San Antonio, a member since Aug. 29, 1942.

The Humanitarian Award was presented to Kathy Kutac, a member of the lodge. Kathy is an associate of Vietnam Veterans Chapter 870. In 2015 she received the National Fellowship Award in Springfield, Illinois. For the past five years she was nominated for AVVA Member of the Year. Kathy and her husband, Daniel, take veterans to the VA hospital in Austin for doctor appointments. Kathy participates in state conventions and donates quilts to silent auctions and prize drawings.

A member of the Navidad Valley Cattle Women Association, Kathy has been treasurer for five years, helps with the 5K run – Healthy High – takes pictures, works with scrapbooking and reads for scholarship awards.

Schulenburg Lodge President Bill Michalke presents the 2017 Humanitarian Award to Kathy Kutac during the lodge Christmas party.

Kathy has been a member of the Catholic Daughters for 15 years, is on the grievance committee and calling committee.

Kathy helps to quilt for this organization as well as for the St. Rose picnics and for Christmas Around the World.

She attends St. Mary’s Church in High Hill and has been president of St. Anne’s Society High Hill for about 10 years. This includes making strudels for Sausage Fest and serving on the grievance committee and handling the quilting in High Hill for prize drawings and auctions.

A group photo was taken of

all members and guests that will become part of a display at the Schulenburg Historical Museum. It will be displayed alongside a group photo taken in 1906. There also is a written history of the lodge that will be part of the display.

Members enjoyed fellowship and a meal. The evening ended with a drawing for prizes.

The first meeting of 2018 will be held Wednesday, Jan. 10.

Chili and pies will be served.

Elected and appointed officers are asked to attend so they can be installed.

– Junette Rodecap

Nordhausen Stoever receives his 75-year membership pin from Director Mike Beam during the Schulenburg Lodge Christmas party.

Members of Schulenburg Lodge received their 60-year membership pins during the lodge Christmas party. Pictured with lodge President Bill Michalke and Director Mike Beam, far right, are, from left, Gladys Janda, Gary McBride, Frank Bohlmann, Violet Hollas and Arnold Berger.

Harmonia will hold annual chili cook-off on Jan. 11

SAN ANTONIO – Harmonia Lodge will hold its second annual chili cook-off at the Jan. 11 meeting. Various members have volunteered to prepare chili using their own recipes. The lodge will provide tamales and other members are asked to bring a side dish or dessert to share. Officers will be installed.

The lodge held its annual Thanksgiving celebration in the Home Association Ballroom in November. Snoga’s catered the turkey and dressing meal. Mem-

bers provided the desserts.

Members voted to make a $100 donation to the Sutherland Springs First Baptist Church Memorial Fund and to buy four tickets to the Riedel Wine Tasting being held to raise money to make repairs to the stained glass windows in the Home Association Building.

The tickets were given away as attendance prizes. The winners were Mike Beam, Alan Cobb, Brad Dietrich and Daniel Seiler.

The proceeds from the Tee It

Up For A Cause Golf Tournament were presented to representatives of Camp Discovery and The 100 Club of San Antonio. Mark Seguin accepted the $12,000 donation to Camp Discovery and Allan Smith, chairman of The 100 Club, accepted a donation of $2,750.

Camp Discovery is a camp for children with cancer. The 100 Club supports the families of law enforcement and fire departments in San Antonio and Bexar County who have died in

the line of duty.

Some of the financial donors and tournament workers were present and their contribution to the success of the event was recognized.

Members were informed of the passing of several members. Ronald M. Bachofer, age 60, passed away July 31 and had been a member since 1969; Corey Tyler Raab, age 30, passed away Aug. 23 and had been a member since 1987; Milton Lindemann, age 82, passed away

Sept. 14 and had been a member since 1946; and Alfred E. Muenchow, age 93, passed away Sept. 25 and had been a member since 1943.

Celebrating November birthdays were Virginia Bernhard, wife of Bill Bernhard, Roger Buley, Stan Steiger, Jim McNeel and Mike Gumpp.

The cash attendance prize winners were Mike Warneke and Daniel Seiler and the split-thepot winner was Matt Kraus.

– John Hoog

Wishing you a blessed and prosperous New Year!

January 2018 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 17

Lockhart Lodge presents award during party LOCKHART – Lockhart Lodge celebrated the holidays on Dec. 3 at Whizzerville Hall in McMahan where members enjoyed a pizza meal.

During the meeting, one new member, Debra Workman, was welcomed.

The 2017 Humanitarian Award was presented to Ray Pfefferkorn.

Agent Janice Kuhen wished everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year and encouraged them to continue to strive to recruit new members.

Vice President Nicky Duewall read a thank you note from the Gwen Till family for the memorial donation made to the Retirement Home and a Merry Christmas letter from Hermann Sons Life.

The 2018 calendar was accept-

ed. The January meeting will be held the second Sunday, instead of the usual first Sunday. Officers will be installed at the Jan. 14 meeting that will be held in the Chisholm Trail Barbeque Room. It begins at 6 p.m.

Other meetings will be held March 4, April 1, May 6, June 3, Aug. 5, Oct. 7, Nov. 4 and Dec. 2. The lodge will take part in Join Hands Day in May and Make a Difference Day in October. Members are urged to bring friends to meetings and other activities.

Rudy and Ann Schroeder celebrated their 49th wedding anniversary in December.

Members enjoyed the gift exchange game. There were nine youth in attendance.

– Reporter

Ray Pfefferkorn was presented the 2017 Humanitarian Award for Lockhart Lodge by Vice President Nicky Duewall and President Ann Schroeder. Ray was chosen because of his involvement in his church, community and Hermann Sons Life.

Celebrating December birthdays at the Lockhart Lodge Christmas party were, from left, Janice Kuhen, Nancy Hess and Betty Willms.

Vineta Lodge to serve tamales, chili at Jan. 4 gathering SAN ANTONIO – Vineta Lodge will serve tamales and chili at the Jan. 4 gathering. Members will play bunco and enjoy a surprise lunch at the social on Jan. 17.

It doesn’t seem possible that another year has passed, but 2017 is history. The lodge celebrated its 116th anniversary.

All of the fund-raisers and gatherings would not have been accomplished without the help of officers and members. Thanks go to everyone for being a member.

In December, members enjoyed a ham dinner. The evening was cut short because of the weather. Members drove home in the snow.

Genny Kraus was surprised when daughter Carol Bielke named her the Humanitarian Award recipient for 2017. Her family was present to see her receive the award.

Thanks go to Irene Kace and Cecilia Padalecki for furnishing the lunch and a cake for the social in November.

The split-the-pot winner was Chris Ackermann in December and there were several attendance award winners.

Vineta mourns the passing of Erna Dee Herring, a member for

Vineta Lodge Community Coordinator Beth Byron, right, presents Genny Kraus, middle, with the Humanitarian Award for 2017.

Daughter Carol Bielke also is pictured.

Vineta Lodge members are pictured with the canned goods they donated to a local food bank during the Christmas party.

32 years, and Peggy Miller, also a member for 32 years.

Scholarship applications will be available after the first of the year. Call Ruth Bailey at 210602-5147 to have an application mailed to you. They are due in the office by March 15. Applicants are required to show proof of 20 hours of community service.

– Reporter

Betty Thomas, left, celebrated her birthday in December. Vineta Lodge Community Coordinator Beth Byron presents her with a gift.

Page 18 – Hermann Sons Life – January 2018

Mission-Alamo to meet Jan. 24 to plan new year

SAN ANTONIO – Mission-Alamo Lodge members and guests enjoyed the pre-holiday party on Nov. 19. It was a great success thanks to all who helped.

The cooks did a great job, the side dishes were delicious and, of course, the desserts were without any calories. Thanks also to all who helped clean up afterward.

The lodge was honored to have three members of the board of directors in attendance including Mike Beam, David Wolf, Chair of the Board Sandra Jones and husband Sam and President and CEO Buddy Preuss and wife Elizabeth. Director Suzanne Hildebrand helped decorate but due to illness could not attend the party.

The arts and crafts were enjoyed by all the children thanks to Denise Wright and her helpers.

Stuart Breezee receives his 50-year membership pin from Chair of the Board Sandra Jones during the Mission-Alamo Lodge pre-holiday party. Stuart has been a member since Nov. 23, 1967.

Diane and Kirby Cline, center, are the recipients of the 2017 Humanitarian Award for Mission-Alamo Lodge. The award was presented by Laura Adams, left, and Sylvia Schulmeier, right.

The children sang Christmas carols to welcome Santa and Mrs. Claus to the hall and put everyone in the holiday spirit. Each child received a Christmas bag and a candy cane.

Rendon expressed her thanks and gave a brief summary of what The Forgotten Child Foundation is all about. Thanks go to all who donated toys.

The next meeting will be held

Members Jack Larned and Kathy Smith each won $50 and John Hall won the M&M contest.

Mary Lou Rendon and Sylvia Salavir accepted the toys for The Forgotten Child Foundation. Mrs.

Jan. 24. The calendar for 2018 will be discussed. Bring ideas for a successful year. If you have questions call Bernice Vogel at 210-494-2012.

– Sylvia Schulmeier

Spring Branch Lodge will meet on Jan. 21

Don Huebner, right, is the 2017 recipient of the Humanitarian Award for Shelby Lodge. Pictured with him are President Roy Pieper, left, and Vice President Weldon Klaus.

Shelby holds Christmas party SHELBY – Shelby Lodge celebrated Christmas with a party on Sunday, Dec. 10. Members enjoyed games and a social hour hosted by Ken and Joylene Mathis.

The 2017 Humanitarian Award was presented to Don Huebner

by Vice President Weldon Klaus.

The name of Tricia Frenza was drawn for the progressive door prize but she was not in attendance so the amount of the prize will be increased by $2.

Celebrating December birthdays were Marie Voelkel, Carolyn Bruening and Betty Huebner.

Celebrating a December anni-

versary were Genelle and Nolan Krebs, 61 years, and Carolyn and Warren Meischen, 53 years.

Door prize winners were August Voelkel, Carolyn Meischen, Don Huebner, Joylene Mathis and Judy Pieper. Winners of poinsettias were Robert Klingsporn, Genelle Krebs, Doris Voelkel, Patsy Krebs, Carolyn Meischen and Judy Pieper.

The Jan. 14 meeting will begin with a social at 5 p.m. at Harmonie Hall. The meeting begins at 6 p.m. Ken and Joylene Mathis and Allen and Doris Christ will host the meal that will include lasagna and salad.

– Reporter

BULVERDE – Spring Branch Lodge will meet Jan. 21 at 2:30 p.m. in the Bulverde Community Center.

The other meetings in 2018 will be held March 18, May 19, July 15, Sept. 16 and Nov. 18.

Meetings are held on the third Sunday of the month at 2:30 p.m. at the Bulverde Community Center except for the July meeting, which will be held at the Knibbe Ranch in Spring Branch.

Officers were elected at the November meeting. After many years of serving as president, Sandra Duncan has retired.

Sharon Knibbe was elected president and her duties will commence with the January meeting. Darrell Woody will assume the position of vice president.

One new junior member was welcomed.

Sandra reported that she attended a workshop for agents in Comfort in October.

The lodge received thank-you notes from the Home Office for the $100 donations made to the Retirement Home Christmas Fund and the Grief Support Session at Hermann Sons Life Camp and the $200 donation to the Hurricane Harvey Disaster Relief

Celebrating recent birthdays from Spring Branch Lodge were, from left, Ben Havens, Claire Schaeferkoeter, Darrell Woody and Jane Wanke. President Sandra Duncan looks on.

Fund.

Members were sad to hear that Sandra Duncan lost her beach house in Rockport to Hurricane Harvey.

A sympathy card was sent to the family of Myrtle Bartels. She was a Hermann Sons member for 67 years.

Sharon Knibbe reported that a trip to New York is planned for the second week in October

2018. More information will be forthcoming.

Taking home attendance prizes were Norman Kuebel, Claire Schaeferkoeter, Ben Havens, Alverne Halloran, Sharon Knibbe, Karen Woody, Phyllis Havens, Susie Kuebel and Karen Woody.

After the meeting, members enjoyed a meal of chili and tamales.

– Jane Wanke

January 2018 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 19

Round Top Lodge presents Humanitarian Award ROUND TOP – Round Top Lodge presented the 2017 Humanitarian Award at its Nov. 16 meeting held at the American Legion Hall near Round Top. The award was presented to Floyd and Jocie Braun in recognition of their service to the lodge and community.

Floyd and Jocie are active members of the lodge, serving on many committees, especially working with the Country Store to benefit the Round Top-Warrenton Volunteer Fire Department each May. Floyd enjoys woodworking and always donates a specialty item for the many fund-raisers in the community. He recently presented the Round Top Lodge with a star flag stand.

In 1998 after losing their spouses, they combined their families and built a new home on Floyd’s father’s land be-

tween Carmine and Round Top. Floyd has a son and daughter.

Jocie has three daughters and a deceased son. Between them they have 18 great-grandchildren. They still host the whole family on holidays such as Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter, plus other special occasions.

They are members of Martin Luther Lutheran Church in Carmine. Jocie has served on church council as well as in offices with the WELCA. Floyd is treasurer of Men in Mission and oversees the collection of aluminum cans for their project.

Both are members and volunteer for the various fund-raisers of the Carmine Chamber of Commerce, Carmine Volunteer Fire Department and Cedar Creek Schuetzen Verein. Jocie is a member of the Carmine Li-

ons Club. Floyd is a member of the Round Top Carmine Young Farmers Club. They enjoy attending party dances and high school sports.

A monetary donation will be sent to Brazos Valley Hospice for its annual fund-raiser.

Get well wishes were extended to Virgie Hall.

Melissa Wickel was wished a “Happy Birthday.”

The Serving Committee for January will include Jim and Linda Mattocks, Floyd and Jocie Braun and Virgie Hall.

Attendance prizes were awarded to Mary Rauch, Ted Stardig, Floyd Braun, Sophie Rauch and Jim Mattocks. Door prizes were awarded to Linda Mattocks, Orville Glaesmann, Melanie Rauch, Margie Stardig, Jocie Braun, Jeanette Schoenst and Lila Garlin.

– Reporter

Jocie and Floyd Braun are the recipients of the 2017 Humanitarian Award for Round Top Lodge.

Boerne Lodge will hold installation of officers Jan. 5 BOERNE – Boerne Lodge will meet Friday, Jan. 5, at 12 noon at Kronkosky Place. Lunch reservations must be made in advance by calling the Rainbow Senior Center by 9 a.m. the day of the meeting. The 2018 officers will be installed. The 2017 officers have agreed to serve another year.

Johnathan D’Spain is scheduled to be the guest speaker.

He was valedictorian of his class at Boerne High School in 2017 and is a member of the lodge.

He received a scholarship that he is using at Notre Dame in Indiana.

The lodge met Dec. 1 and

welcomed guests including Director Mike and Mary Beam, Carolyn Bentzinger and Hilary Petriee.

Mike Beam presented Barbara Vogt with her 60-year membership pin. She has been a member since April 1, 1957. A.R. Sueltenfuss, a member since April 12, 1957, and Joanne Freeman, a member since Sept. 17, 1957, were unable to attend the meeting to personally receive their 60-year pins. Jacquie Faecher, a member since Dec. 9, 1967, is receiving her 50-year pin this year.

Carolyn Bentzinger was presented the Humanitarian Award

for 2017. Carolyn she held numerous volunteer positions for more than 20 years. She has chaired various committees or served on the board with her children’s schools, her homeowner’s association, her church and the community.

Carolyn has focused her attention recently with the Boerne Community Coalition. This collaborative group of non-profit agencies, churches, businesses and organizations in Boerne is committed to lifting up the lives of low-income children and their families. Even though this is a full-time initiative, Carolyn still finds tine to deliver Meals

on Wheels and to serve with her church group called the Loving Spoonfuls to provide nutritious meals to members of the church who are in need.

Charles Vogt, son of Agent Marilyn Vogt, was a guest speaker. He shared lots of interesting information on how to make homemade sauerkraut the old fashioned way from recipes handed down by his ancestors.

He provided samples of his sauerkraut for members to taste and also provided a sample of a German meat called headcheese. Charles and his family are very resourceful and live off the land, which is becoming a

rarity these days.

His infant son, Charles Rhys Vogt, was welcomed as a new junior member of the lodge.

Members voted for the lodge to purchase meal tickets to be given as Christmas gifts for members to use in the future.

Members also voted to make a $100 donation to the Sutherland Springs Baptist Church Memorial Fund.

Alice Quinn celebrated a birthday in December and Mike and Mary Beam celebrated their anniversary in December.

At the end of the meeting, homemade cookies were served.

Paige re-elects, reappoints all current officers for 2018 PAIGE – Paige Lodge members and guests enjoyed Thanksgiving lunch prior to the Nov. 12 meeting. Special thanks go to Ronnie Harmon for picking up the fried chicken, to Debbie Harmon for covering the tables and making the lodge hall ready with a very festive atmosphere and to all who brought side dishes and desserts.

The lodge welcomes new junior

member Delilah Leeann Salazar.

Faithful and dedicated member Bernice Basward was not able to attend the lunch and meeting as she was recuperating from two broken ribs. She did however send a pot of her homemade noodles.

Veterans present for the lunch and meeting were recognized and included Otis Marburger,

Frank Bilberry, Cornell Kunkel, Jerry Potter and Charlie Harmon.

Members were saddened at the passing of community member Alton Patschke. Sympathy was extended to his family.

All current officers were re-elected and reappointed by acclamation to serve again in 2018. They are president, RaChelle Dube; vice president, La Verne Mattiza; secre-

tary, Sandy Botkin; treasurer, Ronnie Harmon; financial trustees, Frank Bilberry, Michael Dube and Debbie Harmon; membership coordinator, Bernice Basward; communications coordinator, Brigette Burttschell; community coordinator, Janice Bilberry; youth coordinator, Troy Kunkel; and personal assistant, Halle Dube.

Ethel Kunkel won the atten-

dance prize and La Verne Mattiza won the dollar pot.

Brigette Burttschell, Ronnie Harmon and Janice Bilberry donated various door prizes so everyone received a prize.

Members were glad to have Landon Harmon and Sky Kraph join them for the lunch and meeting.

– Sandy Botkin

Page 20 – Hermann Sons Life – January 2018

Austin Lodge will install 2018 officers on Jan. 7

AUSTIN – Austin Lodge will meet Sunday, Jan. 7, at 2 p.m.

Members are asked to bring their favorite soup or salad and desserts. The 2018 officers will be installed.

Games will be played. Each member is asked to bring one nice gift per person who wants to play games.

A meeting and Christmas party were held Sunday, Dec. 3.

President Ed Kurtz read correspondence from the Home Office. Members voted to send $150 to the Sutherland Springs Baptist Church Memorial Fund.

The Cheer Committee reported the passing of Artie Monson, a long time member of Austin Lodge. It also was reported that Edna Weigelt had been in the hospital but was back at home.

Get well wishes go out to her.

Members were glad to see Fred

Cynthia Miller, center, receives the 2017 Humanitarian Award for Austin Lodge from Recording Secretary Pat Spradling and lodge President Ed Kurtz. Cynthia is the event and parties coordinator for the Ben Sur Shrine and has helped the lodge in many ways since it started meeting there.

Celebrating December birthdays at the Austin Lodge meeting were, from left, William Albert, Jordan Nelson (who is turning 18), Rose Hampton and Patsy Walker.

Weber at the meeting.

Gay Stark received the attendance award and Pat Spradling

won a Christmas poinsettia plant.

After the meeting, everyone enjoyed the gift exchange and

won the kitty.

Leona Schaefer, Jim Spradling, Gay Stark and Dave Kastner each

fried chicken with covered dishes furnished by members.

– Betty Kurtz

New Bielau re-elects officers; next meeting set for Jan. 22

Hochheim-Prairie holds annual Christmas party Hochheim-Prairie Lodge held its annual Christmas party on Sunday, Dec. 2, at Turner Hall. The program began with a performance by students from the Hochheim-Prairie School of Dance. After the performance each dancer was given a gift from the Parents’ Club and the children got to meet Santa. The Parents’ Club also held a silent auction to raise money for the dance school.

WEIMAR – New Bielau Lodge will meet Jan. 22 at 6:30 p.m.

Members met for a meeting, pin presentations and Christmas party Nov. 27 at Oakridge Restaurant in Schulenburg.

Members enjoyed a meal before the meeting. Guests included Director Stan Steiger and wife Karen and Agent Mary K. Seifert.

Stan presented a 60-year membership pin to Candace Berger. She has been a member since Oct. 23, 1957. Three

other members were unable to attend to receive their 60-year pins. They are Michael Winkler, a member since March 18, 1957; Lester Lipperdt, a member since May 1, 1957; and Carol Kullman, a member since Aug. 14, 1957.

Members celebrating birthdays in October were Lawrence Addicks, Allen Hoelscher, Irene Banse and Doris Albright.

The current officers were reelected and will serve again in 2018.

– Harlene Novak

Hondo Victory welcomes new member HONDO VICTORY – Hondo Victory Lodge held its Christmas party Dec. 13 at the Hermann Sons Steak House in Hondo.

At the Nov. 14 meeting, the lodge welcomed new member Emma Marie Romero.

The money from the “Hugs from Home” jar was collected and sent to the Home Office.

Grace Schmidt and Emilie Cowan provided refreshments. Emilie was unable to attend so Helen Boehme helped serve.

– Verlie Fay Nietenhoefer

Celebrating birthdays at the November meeting of Hondo Victory Lodge were, from left, Betty Newman, Loraine Miller and Helen Boehme.

New Bielau Lodge member Candace Lynn O. Berger, from left, receives her 60-year membership pin from Director Stan Steiger and lodge President Dorothy Chevalier.

January 2018 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 21

Brenham Lodge re-elects officers to serve in 2018 BRENHAM – Brenham Lodge held its Christmas dinner and dance Dec. 2. President and CEO Buddy Preuss delivered a brief message.

Santa Claus came and gave all the children a bag full of goodies.

At the Nov. 10 meeting, members re-elected the current officers to serve again in 2018. They are Jeanette Preuss, president; James Hyvl, vice president; and Lena Mae Goessler, secretary/ treasurer.

A moment of silence was observed in memory of Warren Sallach Jr. A note of thanks was received from the Volunteer Council of the Brenham State School for the monetary gift and from the Home Office for the donation to the Retirement Home Christmas Fund.

The Cheer Committee mailed get-well cards to Raymond Walker and Edward Longhofer Jr. Sympathy cards were mailed to Becky Sallach following the passing of her husband, Warren; to Fred and Janice Hermann following the passing of their son-in-law, Warren Sallach; to Melissa Cook following the passing of her brother-in-law, Warren Sallach; and to Leroy Klump, following the passing of his brother, Raymond.

President Jeanette Preuss thanked James Hyvl for preparing the meat for the meeting and all the members who brought side dishes and desserts.

– Lena Mae Goessler

President and CEO Buddy Preuss and Brenham Lodge President Jeanette Preuss, right, presented a 70-year membership pin to Janice McClendon during the lodge’s Christmas dinner and dance Dec. 2.

President and CEO Buddy Preuss and Brenham Lodge President Jeanette Preuss, right, presented one of the lodge’s Humanitarian Awards to Jack Schramm during the lodge’s Christmas dinner and dance Dec. 2.

President and CEO Buddy Preuss and Brenham Lodge President Jeanette Preuss, right, presented one of the lodge’s Humanitarian Awards to Shirley Ganske during the lodge’s Christmas dinner and dance Dec. 2.

Celebrating birthdays in November from Brenham Lodge were, from left, Elwood Jaster, Bill Hughlett, Joyce Marburger, Elaine Lorenz and Lena Mae Goessler.

Bandera County hosts Christmas party for dancers

Bert and Cleo Jaeger from Brenham Lodge celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary in November.

The students from the Bandera County School of Dance gave a recital on Dec. 8.

BANDERA – Bandera County Lodge hosted a Christmas party for the Bandera County School of Dance on Dec. 8 at the Bandera Middle School Auditorium.

The dancers gave the audience a sneak preview of what they have learned so far and what can be expected at the recital. Emily Brown is the teacher.

Vice President of Marketing Tim Kolbe and wife

Cheryl were in attendance.

Tim spoke briefly and then presented certificates to Paul and Eileen Heath who recently retired after serving many years as agents for Hermann Sons Life.

After the dancers performed, cookies and punch were served. A visitor from the North Pole, aka Santa, greeted the children. Each dancer received a goodie bag provided by the lodge.

– Susan Hillje

Page 22 – Hermann Sons Life – January 2018

San Marcos will install officers at Feb. 5 meeting SAN MARCOS – San Marcos Lodge celebrated Christmas with an afternoon party held Sunday, Dec. 10, at the Zorn Bowling Club. The festivities began with guessing games and other games with the winners taking home poinsettias and gold dollar coins. A catered turkey meal was served.

President Agnes Dreibrodt read a message from the directors, officers and employees wishing members a “Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.”

The 2018 officers were reminded that they will be installed at the first meeting in 2018, which will be held Monday, Feb. 5, at 6:30 p.m. at La Vista Apartments Community Room. Everyone is encouraged to wear red in recognition of Heart Month and Valentine’s Day. President Dreibrodt thanked everyone for coming and those who helped with decorating.

She thanked Evelyn Moreau for the guessing games and Shirley Faske for getting the children’s games and gifts. She thanked Peggy Meiners for calling the games and Janice Kuhen for getting the poinsettias and all the other items needed for a successful afternoon. She thanked Mary Lou Preuss for preparing the coffee, Earlene Acrey and Betty Rust for taking care of tagging the adult gifts and Bryce and Brett Stoffel for playing elves to deliver the adult gifts. She thanked Lillian Cargil for taking care of regis-

Shirley Faske acted as “Mama Santa” for the San Marcos Lodge Christmas party and passed out gifts to the children. They include, seated on bench, from left, Bryce Stoffel, Brett Stoffel, Tylor Lewis, Braydon Schermerhorn, front, from left, James Schermerhorn, Kayla Schermerhorn, Sydney Hotchkiss, Bailey Hotchkiss and Bayleigh Lewis.

Evelyn Moreau, left, is the recipient of the 2017 Humanitarian Award for San Marcos Lodge. President Agnes Dreibrodt presented the award.

San Marcos Lodge members donated food to the San Marcos Food Bank at the Christmas party. tration. Thank yous also were extended to everyone who brought non-perishable food items for the local food bank.

Santa couldn’t come this year because of snow and problems with the reindeer so Shirley Faske played “Mama Santa” and gave the children the presents that were left earlier and gifts

from the lodge.

The adult gift exchange was held and the winners for the guessing games were announced.

Esther Schmidt guessed 330 pipe cleaners, Clifford Rust guessed 213 bottle caps and Marshall McQuaig guessed 277 jingle bells.

– Reporter

Members of San Marcos Lodge who celebrated a birthday in December included, from left, Janice Kuhen, Billy Preuss, Kayla Schermerhorn, Sydney Hotchkiss and Beverly Beset. Clifford and Betty Rust celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary in December.

Fort Worth assists families in need during holiday season FORT WORTH – Christmas is the time to spend with family and friends and a time for giving. As in past years, Fort Worth Lodge bought gifts for six children.

Thanks go to all the members who helped with the shopping and delivering the gifts to the church.

This year, the lodge took another step and helped a family in the community. This family is struggling because the mother spent three weeks in the hospital and has a long road to recovery. This family did not ask for help, but it’s

the time of the year to be giving so the lodge gave a donation to help with Christmas for the family.

Thanks go to the members who came to the December meeting and loved the idea of helping this family.

Also at that meeting, the election of officers was held and all the officers were re-elected.

Thanks go to those who agreed to serve again.

The Youth Committee will be giving t-shirts to all junior members of the lodge who attend Her-

mann Sons Life Camp. Send Ronnie Jones your t-shirt size so he can get them ordered and then when you attend Camp, wear your shirt so everyone will know you belong to Fort Worth Lodge.

The Youth Committee also will be sending post cards about this, but if you would like to get your size turned in early, send the information to Ronnie Jones, 11704 Frazier Lane Crowley, Texas 76038.

Happy December Birthday wishes go to Michael Burton, Gracie Castor, David Dornberg, Chris-

topher Hanna, Kenneth Miller, Maci Minter, Michael Rojas, Shelbie Stephenson, Brennen Tousley, William Tousley and Kinslee Wallace.

The lodge will receive its 2018 new member goal in January. It is never too early or too late to talk Hermann Sons Life to your friends and family.

Also, don’t forget if you would like for your child to attend Camp and they are not a member, start now by contacting your agent or the Home Office. You can contact Sandra Jones by email at

sandraj1966@yahoo.com or by phone at 817-781-7155.

Make it your New Year’s resolution to check your beneficiaries and make sure they are up to date. Also, check to make sure you have enough insurance. If you have any questions, contact Sandra Jones or call the Home Office.

The next meeting will be held March 4 at 3 p.m. at Westcreek Lanes. Everyone is welcome to come and help make plans for the rest of the year.

– Reporter

January 2018 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 23

Dallas Lodge to install officers Jan. 28 DALLAS – Dallas Lodge will meet Sunday, Jan. 28, at 1 p.m. at the historic hall. The 2018 officers will be installed. All members are encouraged to attend.

The officers were elected at the Nov. 19 meeting. They are president, Andy Schellenberg; vice president, Clint Holmes; secretary/treasurer, Steve Schellenberg; and financial trustees, Eva Day, Clint Holmes and Terri Holmes.

D’Hanis Lodge pioneer receives pin Emma Jean Weynand receives her 70-year membership pin from Vice President of Finance Harry Werland. Jean is a member of D’Hanis Lodge. She lives in D’Hanis and has been a member since Dec. 3, 1947.

Members of Converse Lodge and their guests gather around a table during the lodge’s Christmas party.

Wayne Hofferichter called the games at the Converse Lodge meeting with help from Waylon Viator. Wayne is the son of Karen and Travis Viator and grandson of Maxine and Brian Sullivan.

Appointed officers and coordinators will be Clint Holmes, communications; Eva Lloyd, youth; Steve Schellenberg, membership; Eva Day, community and Margaret Owens, historian.

The lodge’s representatives on the Home Association will be Eva Day, Terri and Clint Holmes, Brigitte Robinson and Andy and Steve Schellenberg.

Thanks go to the officers who served in 2017 and to those who

have agreed to serve in 2018.

Megan L. Prestemon was welcomed by way of transfer.

Andy Schellenberg won the attendance prize.

Margaret Owens and Jean Ernst prepared and served the meal after the meeting.

Thanks go to the Columbia Lodge members who attended the meeting and enjoyed the meal and fellowship.

– Reporter

Gay Hill plans first fund-raiser for Jan. 26 GAY HILL – Gay Hill Lodge will hold its first fund-raiser of the New Year on Jan. 26. It will be a Sirloin Steak Supper. Cooks for the January meeting will be Bradley and Patsy Fischer.

Members enjoyed a steak supper with all the trimmings at the Dec. 7 meeting. Preparing the meal were Bradley and Patsy Fischer, David and Doris Roehling and Stanley and Mary Jo Klekar.

The Cheer Committee will send a sympathy card to Linda Lakenmacher following the passing of her husband.

Agent, Donnie Blinka wished members a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

– Reporter

Lance Lehde, left, receives the Humanitarian Award for Gay Hill Lodge from President Stanley Klekar.

Bradley Fischer cooks steaks for the December meeting of Gay Hill Lodge.

Marvin and Mae Fischer, from left, celebrated a December anniversary while Holly Lehde, David Roehling and Janice McClendon celebrated December birthdays. They all are members of Gay Hill Lodge.

Converse holds celebration

Bernardo Lodge to install officers in January

CONVERSE – Converse Lodge held its Christmas party on Dec. 10 at the GRASP Center in Converse. After socializing, members enjoyed playing games.

Vice President of Operations Samantha Schulmeier spoke on behalf of the Home Office.

A moment of silence was

BERNARDO – Bernardo Lodge will install the 2018 officers at the January meeting.

The lodge met Nov. 15 in the Bernardo Fire Station meeting room.

Beatrice Hill noted that she sent a get-well card to Emanuel Weishuhn.

observed in memory of John Schraub, Alan Boecker and Dwayne Boenig. Alan was a past president of the lodge who held other positions The meal included tamales, rice, beans, chili, corn bread and desserts.

– Maxine Sullivan

Robin Maertz bought five poinsettias from the Columbus Junior High Athletic Department on behalf of the lodge.

Two were used as door prizes and the other three were delivered to Jerome Wicke, Milton Nelson and Adeline Heintschel who are living in local nursing

homes.

Celebrating November birthdays were Arlene Trojacek and Billy Hagen.

Happy Anniversary wishes went out to Arlene and Joe Trojacek. They have been married for 62 years.

– Reporter

Page 24 – Hermann Sons Life – January 2018

Cibolo presents pin, award during holiday party

CIBOLO – Cibolo Lodge held its annual Christmas party on Saturday, Dec. 9, at the Bexar Social Club.

The festivities began with a performance by the Cibolo School of Dance students. They enjoyed drinks and cookies after the performance.

President John Gray welcomed Suzanne Hildebrand, a member of the Board of Directors. She delivered a short message and then led everyone in a moment of silence in memory of the lives lost in the Sutherland Springs Church shooting.

President Gray awarded junior members with the money they earned for each meeting they attended during the year.

The Humanitarian Award was presented to Katherine Campos and her son, Javion Campos.

Katherine and Javion set up a food pantry in front of their home in Cibolo and stocked it monthly to provide free, non-perishable food items for neighbors in need of help. They had a no questions asked policy. Their neighbors and others from the community got on board and donated food and other items to help those in need.

The lodge presented the proceeds from the rummage sale it held in September to the Clemens 4-H Club. Judi Kosub accepted two checks, one for $1,400 from the lodge and another for $500 from the Home Office Matching Funds Program.

The club helped with advertising, donations and participated at the sale.

The arrival of Jolly Old St. Nick was welcomed by the 80-plus children in attendance. They all lined up to tell Santa their wishes for this year. Of course, all of the children made the “nice” list, so each received a gift from Santa and Elf-in-Training Dawn Bierstedt. Pictures were taken and can be viewed on the lodge’s Facebook page.

Cory Rakowitz was the winner of the 50/50 drawing. More than $400 was raised with the other half going to the lodge’s scholarship fund.

Other prizes were given away and included food baskets,

Bernice Albert, right, receives her 60-year membership pin from Director Suzanne Hildebrand during the Cibolo Lodge Christmas party.

Bernice has been a member Aug. 22, 1957.

Javion and his mother, Katherine Campos, are the recipients of the Cibolo Lodge Humanitarian Award for 2017.

Judi Kosub from the Clemens 4-H Club accepts donations from Cibolo Lodge President John Gray during the Christmas party. The money was raised during the lodge’s Matching Funds rummage sale in September. ice cream makers, gift cards to Lowe’s, H-E-B and Chick-Fil-A and poinsettias to name a few.

The evening included music provided by DJ Dana Whermann.

There was plenty of dancing and singing along to favorite tunes.

Next Door Catering provided the meal of bacon-wrapped chicken, green beans, potatoes, a roll and salad. Guests brought desserts for all to share.

The Jan. 4 meeting will be held at Christ the King Lutheran Church in Universal City. Meetings are held every first Thursday of the month. Although the meeting is held in the church conference room, this is not a

church service. All ages are welcome to attend meetings and anyone can bring guests. Junior members may bring electronic devices, coloring sheets, small toys, etc. to help keep them entertained, if desired. January’s main dish will be tamales. Those attending are encouraged to bring a side dish or dessert to share. A winner will be selected for best side dish and best dessert.

Hans Boas, linguistic professor at UT Austin, has scheduled his graduate student, Alexander Lorenz, to come in his place to the Feb. 1 meeting that begins at 7 p.m. at Christ the King Lutheran

Zane Grey, left, presents Cory Rakowitz with his half of the 50/50 drawing money at the Cibolo Lodge Christmas party.

Church. Alexander is a representative of the Texas German Dialect Project (TGDP), housed in the Department of Germanic Studies at the University of Texas at Austin. His talk will focus on the main goals of the TGDP, which include the preservation of the Texas German dialect as it reflects the rich cultural and linguistic traditions of its residents. In addition to his talk, Alexander is looking for Texas German speakers in the area who are willing to be interviewed by him in the near future.

You can access the project’s website at www.tgdp.org and contact Alexander at 662-588-9669.

– Tracy Campos

Leslie Swank sang “O’ Holy Night” during the Cibolo Lodge Christmas party.

January 2018 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 25

Comfort Lodge to install officers at Jan. 8 meeting COMFORT – Comfort Lodge held its annual Christmas party on Sunday, Dec. 10, at the Hilltop Camp in Comfort.

More than 200 guests were present for the event and they enjoyed fellowship, a recital by the students from the Comfort School of Dance, a visit from Santa and a turkey dinner prepared by members.

Thanks go to Brian and Pamela Nentwich, Ryan Feller, Kevin and Joellen Klohn, John and Carla Sorbel and Hunter and Katie Miller who helped prepare the meal.

The dance classes were under the direction of Aimee Miller and her assistant Makayla Aldrich.

They performed to a variety of Christmas songs.

Thanks also go to the many school of dance volunteers who decorated the dining hall and provided the backdrop for the stage.

The 2017 Humanitarian Award was presented to Tammy Jo Aldrich. Tammy has been invloved with the Comfort School of Dance for the past 14 years. She has served as an officer and volunteer.

She is the current Parents’ Club president and is responsible for the coordination of dance classes, fund-raisers and recitals twice a year. Tammy is a big reason the dance classes continue to be successful.

Tammy also serves as the community coordinator for Comfort Lodge and is instrumental in making its community service projects a success.

Comfort Lodge presented the 2017 Humanitarian Award to Tammy Jo Aldrich at the Christmas party. Pictured are, from left, lodge President Connie Spenrath, President and CEO Buddy Preuss, Norma Bruns, Tammy Jo Aldrich and Katie Miller.

Tammy is an active member of several organizations within the Comfort Independent School District including the Comfort High School Band Boosters, the Comfort Athletic Booster Club and the Comfort High School Alumni FFA Organization. She volunteers countless hours working the Bobcat Grill during football season for the CABC. Tammy is also responsible for coordinating the barbecue dinner for the FFA Alumni organization during the Comfort Stock Show.

She also serves as a director for the Kendall County Junior Livestock Show. Her main responsibility during this event is the coordination of the silent auction.

Tammy is one of 30 board members.

Students from the Comfort School of Dance entertained at the Comfort Lodge Christmas party.

Tammy also volunteers with the Sisterdale Volunteer Fire Department helping with its two fundraisers during the year. She also helps coordinate the auction during the Boerne Wild Game Dinner.

The lodge will hold its next meeting on Monday, Jan. 8, at the VFW Hall in Comfort. The social will begin at 5 p.m. followed by a meal and meeting around 6 p.m.

The 2018 officers will be installed and members will discuss the golf tourament scheduled for March 24. Remember that any prize items should be brought to the meeting.

As always you can check out Facebook page by searching Hermann Sons Life Comfort to see the latest news.

– Katie Miller

Santa Claus paid a visit to the Comfort Lodge Christmas party in December.

Wichita Falls will meet Jan. 6

DaCosta dancers entertain at Christmas party DaCosta Lodge held its annual Christmas program for junior members on Monday, Dec. 4. Each of the dance classes performed a Christmas routine and afterwards Santa made an appearance. Each child received a $5 gift from the lodge. The first meeting of the New Year will be held Tuesday, Feb. 13, at 6 p.m.

WICHITA FALLS – Wichita Falls Lodge will meet Jan. 6. The installation of officers will be held and chili is on the menu. For more information about the meeting, call David Wolf at 940550-5202.

The Dec. 2 meeting was held in Windthorst at the local credit union offices.

Members voted to support a local peewee baseball team this spring.

Guest John Rife won the door prize. Pat Wolf and Seth Spivey won the guessing game.

Seth attended Hermann Sons Life Camp this past summer and gave a short report on his experience.

A get-well card was sent to DeeAnn Smallwood.

President David Wolf cooked the brisket and pork ribs that were served.

– Reporter

Page 26 – Hermann Sons Life – January 2018

Rosenberg-Richmond Lodge will meet on Feb. 12 ROSENBERG – Rosenberg-Richmond Lodge will meet Feb. 12.

Stew will be served and members are asked to bring desserts.

The lodge met Dec. 11 at the Rosenberg Civic Center with 86 members and guests in attendance. A catered meal of chicken fried steak and chicken fried chicken, mashed potatoes, carrots and cake was served.

W. Lee and Barbara Schmidt and William and Barbie Benton were in charge of serving. Margie Krenek gave the blessing.

Membership Coordinator Rosalie Byrd reported that get-well cards were sent to Otto Tiemann, Jean Hartfiel and Florence Orsak.

Community Coordinator William Benton talked about the Channel 13 Food Drive. Several members helped at the Rosenberg location.

The Humanitarian Award was presented to Margie Krenek by Humanitarian Award Committee members Marjorie Engelhardt and Joyce Lamensky. Margie is active in her church as well as other organizations in her community.

Agent Tawnya Witcher wished everyone a Merry Christmas and reminded them she is available if they have questions about insurance.

Vice President of Operations Samantha Schulmeier spoke briefly.

Members voted to officially adopt the new local lodge bylaws.

Tom Atkins won the $50 drawing.

– Loyce Anderson

Ruth Froebel, right, receives her 60-year membership pin from Vice President of Operations Samantha Schulmeier during the Rosenberg-Richmond Lodge Christmas party. Ruth is a member of Cat Spring Lodge. She became a member Sept. 15, 1957.

Margie Krenek, center, receives the 2017 Humanitarian Award for Rosenberg-Richmond Lodge from Marjorie Engelhardt, left, and Joyce Lamensky.

Rosenberg-Richmond Lodge took part in the Channel 13 Food Drive for Fort Bend County. The lodge made monetary donations and members worked alongside volunteers from the Rosenberg-Richmond Lions Club, Chick-Fil-A, Woodmen of the World, Si Environment and Channel 13 in Rosenberg to collect more than 38,000 pounds of food and sort and box it. Sixteen members worked an average of five hours or more per person. Pictured are, from left, Margaret Maynard, Calvin Lamensky, Shirley Pavlock, Rosalie Byrd, Margie Orsak, John Pavlock, Ann Juergens, Barbie Benton, Nancy Robeson, Johnny Robeson, Joyce Lamensky, Marjorie Engelhardt, Fred Maynard, Evelyn Kassey, Bill Benton and Mike Kassey.

Barbie and Bill Benton celebrate their wedding anniversary in December. They are members of Rosenberg-Richmond Lodge.

Louise Schuetze members gather for Christmas celebration Louise Schuetze Lodge celebrated Christmas on Dec. 11 in the Rathskeller. Members brought appetizers and enjoyed a gift exchange. Members wore Christmas sweaters including Lori Todd and her twin sister Lisa Robalin who wore almost identical sweaters. The next meeting will be held Jan. 9 at 7 p.m. Members are reminded that friends and other guests are welcome.

Celebrating December birthdays from Rosenberg-Richmond Lodge were, from left, Joe Tumlinson, Kevin Engelhardt, Nancy Robeson, Delbert Wendt, William Benton and Lupe Palacios.

January 2018 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 27

Paul Vogt Lodge hosts annual Christmas party VAN RAUB – Paul Vogt Lodge hosted its annual Christmas party Dec. 9 with more than 50 members and guests in attendance.

President and CEO Buddy Preuss and wife Elizabeth joined members and guests for the fun-filled party.

The evening began with queso and chips and fellowship followed by a dinner of tamales, chili, beans, rice and tortillas.

Afterwards there were plenty of desserts such as pies, cupcakes, cookies, pecans dipped in chocolate and more.

The youth enjoyed visiting with Santa Claus. The children took turns sitting on Santa’s lap and sharing their Christmas wish list.

When they left the stage they received a handmade stocking courtesy of lodge President Pearl Barnard filled with candy and gifts perfect for girls and boys.

Door prizes for the adults included poinsettias, cash and

Robert Keller, left, receives his 60-year membership pin from President and CEO Buddy Preuss during the Paul Vogt Lodge Christmas party. Robert has been a member since Aug. 7, 1957. handmade gifts from Agent Pamela Poulk.

President Pearl Barnard reminded everyone the lodge meets on the first Tuesday of the month except for June, July and August.

Paul Vogt Lodge presented the 2017 Humanitarian Award to Barbara and Glenn Marquardt during the Christmas party. Lodge President Pearl Barnard, left, made the presentation.

Agent Pamela Poulk reminded them that non-members are welcome. In fact, a guest invited to the Christmas party decided to become a member that same evening.

– Reporter

Brad Marquardt, right, receives his 50-year membership from President and CEO Buddy Preuss during the Paul Vogt Lodge Christmas party. Brad has been a member since Oct. 9, 1966.

Plum Lodge will meet Jan. 8 The children attending the Paul Vogt Lodge Christmas party got a chance to visit with Santa Claus and received a gift from the lodge.

PLUM – Plum Lodge will hold its first meeting of the New Year on Monday, Jan. 8, at 6 p.m.

Members are asked to bring soup, crackers, cornbread and/or desserts. Officers will be installed.

The lodge elected the 2018 officers at the Nov. 13 meeting held at the Prairie Valley Schoolhouse.

Sandwiches, chips and dips were enjoyed by all.

The officers will be president, Wilbert Hoffmann; corresponding secretary, Charleen Koopmann; financial secretary, Wallace Hobratschk; trustees, Annie Cook, Donald Hagemann and Gene Wessels; and Finance Committee mem-

bers, Wallace Hobratschk and Gloria Raschke. The appointed officers will be Communications Coordinator Verlene Hobratschk and Membership Coordinator Genelda Stahmer.

Genelda Stahmer reported sending a card to Dustin and Kelly Stahmer following the birth of their son, Austin Walter. He is the great-grandson of Genelda Stahmer.

The lodge’s door prizes went to Verlene Hobratschk, Wallace Hobratschk, Charlene Meinen and Wilbert Hoffmann. Charleen Koopmann won the progressive prize.

– Reporter

Page 28 – Hermann Sons Life – January 2018

Pershing Lodge presents pin, donations at party SAN ANTONIO – Pershing Lodge will meet Jan. 3 at 7 p.m. in the meeting room at the Home Association Building. Members are asked to bring their favorite beef stew, corn bread and desserts.

Vice President of Operations Samantha Schulmeier made her first visit to a Pershing Lodge meeting when she attended the December Christmas party.

She spoke briefly and then presented a 60-year membership pin to Carol Klabunde Koenig. Letricia Rodriguez from the Home Office and her son also attended the Christmas celebration.

Roy Acosta and Gladys Gonzalez from St. P.J.’s Children’s Home were present to accept donations of gifts for the children.

President Beth Warne announced that the Home Association could use volunteers to help park cars on New Year’s Eve. A motion to raise adult dues to $12 per year passed unanimously.

Tony Valek reported on the passing of members Leta Mae Cerney, Lotte Rouch, R.N. Tabberer Sr., Chester Waclawczyk, William H. Harris and James E. Hassold.

Terri Armstrong won the $25 attendance prize.

Don Pass won the split-the-pot drawing.

The names of 12 members

Carol Klabunde Koenig, left, receives her 60-year membership pin from Vice President of Operations Samantha Schulmeier during the Pershing Lodge Christmas party. Carol has been a member since Nov. 26, 1957.

Santa visits with two of the children who attended the December meeting of Pershing Lodge.

Celebrating birthdays at the December Pershing Lodge meeting were, from left, Mary Ann Keller, Beth Warne, Shirley Brown, Carol Chriswell, David Johnson, Anita Eggert, Shirley Griffin and Monnie Nordland. Winners of the birthday cash were Monnie, Anita and David.

were drawn for the December $170 Progressive Pot but none of them were present. They were

Alissa A. Perez, Gerard F. Lohrke, Kendell D. Muenzler, Shawna Ratliff, Margaret M. Moerchen,

Joan A. Muenzler, Bobby H. Herridge, Frank I. Logan, Melissa C. Guthrie, Catherine A. Stannard,

Kerrville Lodge holds election of officers KERRVILLE – Kerrville Lodge held its annual Christmas party on Friday, Dec. 8, at Buzzies BBQ in Kerrville with 54 members and guests in attendance. Brisket and sausage, beans, potato salad and cole slaw were served along with peach cobbler for dessert.

The 2018 officers were elected.

Director David Wolf spoke briefly and prizes were awarded.

The meeting dates for 2018 have been set. They will be held Feb. 7, April 4, June 6, Aug. 1, Oct. 3 and Dec. 7 (Christmas party).

Meetings are held in the Wells Fargo Bank Community Room, 301 Junction Highway, Kerrville, unless otherwise noted.

– Juanice Grona

Representatives from St. P.J.’s Children’s Home attended the December meeting of Pershing Lodge to accept donations made by members. Pictured are, from left, Roy Acosta from St. P.J.’s, Marilyn Hoster, Alice Golla, Beth Warne and Gladys Gonzalez from St. P.J.’s.

Members and guests attended the Kerrville Lodge Christmas party held Dec. 8 at Buzzies BBQ in Kerrville.

Christian J. Fell and Stacie Lyn West.

– Terri Armstrong

Needville donates stuffed animals Needville Lodge recently donated stuffed animals to the residents at SPJST Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation in Needville. Bobby Zwahr delivered the stuffed animals to Wilma Whatley, social director for the nursing and rehab facility.

January 2018 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 29

Marion Lodge welcomes seven new members MARION – Marion Lodge welcomed seven new members at the Nov. 16 meeting.

They are Luke, Sydney, Adeline and James Nichols, Tim Nunez, Brooklyn Parris and Kayden Smith.

A $100 donation was approved for the Sutherland Springs First Baptist Church Fund.

A donation of $50 was approved for Cross Church in memory of Doug Heinemeyer, husband of member Alice Heinemeyer. A $25 donation was approved for the Retirement Home Christmas Fund.

Members also agreed to make a $200 donation to Immaculate Conception Catholic Church for the use of the hall in 2017.

The 2018 officers were elected and will be Morris Vader, president; Laurie Leach, vice president; Sharon Grimm, corresponding secretary; Lorene Bielke, treasurer/financial secretary; and Earl Crawford, Byron Grimm, Ronnie Grimm and Owen Ray, financial trustees.

Vice President of Member Benefits Kim Krueger reminded everyone that Marion Lodge will celebrate its 125th anniversary in 2018.

Attendance prizes went to Morris Vader, Lana Luddeke, Laurie Leach and Lorene Bielke.

– Reporter

Owen Ray and Bruno Voigt received their 60-year membership pins at the November meeting of Marion Lodge. Lodge President Bobby Ray, left, Vice President of Member Benefits Kim Krueger made the presentations. Owen has been a member since Sept. 4, 1957. Bruno joined on Aug. 8, 1957.

Marion Lodge recently took part in a First Responders Appreciation Dinner held to honor the community’s “Super Heroes.” The event was co-hosted by the lodge, the Immaculate Conception Ladies Guild and the Marion Lions Club. A total of 67 first responders from several branches of services in Guadalupe County were treated to a home-cooked Mexican dinner and homemade desserts. The hall was decorated with many super hero characters and drawings from letters of appreciation from the local elementary school students were displayed. Representing the lodge were Lorene Bielke and Bobby Ray.

Helen Voigt of Marion Lodge recently received her 60-year membership pin. Helen has been a member since Oct. 17, 1957.

Enjoying a little conversation at the November meeting of Marion Lodge are, from left, Bruno Voigt, Earl Crawford, Owen Ray and Andrew Friesenhahn.

Rutersville Lodge to install officers at Jan. 3 meeting RUTERSVILLE – Rutersville Lodge will meet Jan. 3. All officers will be installed. If you are an officer, try to be present. The meal will be stew. Members are asked to bring side dishes and desserts.

As always, visitors are welcome.

Members gathered Dec. 2 for a Christmas party. Everyone enjoyed various snacks and drinks before the arrival of Santa Claus.

He had gifts for the children and adults.

Members enjoyed a catered meal of grilled pork steaks and the trimmings.

An informal meeting was held Dec. 6. A potluck meal was served.

Members came together to clean the hall for future rentals.

– Reporter

Santa Claus made an appearance at the Rutersville Lodge Christmas party held Dec. 2.

Rutersville Lodge President Sherry Noak visits with Santa during the Christmas party held Dec. 2.

Page 30 – Hermann Sons Life – January 2018

Seguin presents pins, award during Christmas party

SEGUIN – Seguin Lodge celebrated Christmas on Dec. 10 when members and their guests were welcomed to the festively decorated hall where they enjoyed plenty of food, drinks and socializing.

A turkey meal was served along with side dishes and desserts.

Three of the classes from the Seguin School of Dance entertained everyone with their holiday performances.

Santa Claus flew in from the North Pole to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and give candy bags to all of the children.

Howard and Ann Huebner were the 2017 Humanitarian Award recipients.

The Huebners have been members for more than 30 years. They have parents and grown children who also volunteer their time with the lodge.

Vice President of Marketing Tim Kolbe presented membership pins to seven members.

– Tammy Beutnagel

Ann and Howard Huebner, middle, are the recipients of the 2017 Humanitarian Award for Seguin Lodge. They are pictured with their children, Wendi and Jeremy Huebner.

Lee Jahns, right, receives his 70-year membership pin from Vice President of Marketing Tim Kolbe at the Seguin Lodge Christmas party.

Lee has been a member since May 1, 1947.

Vice President of Marketing Tim Kolbe and Seguin Lodge President Roy Merz, back, are pictured with six members of Seguin Lodge who received their membership pins at the Christmas party. They are, from left, Carl Illhardt, a member since Feb. 19, 1947; Brenda Schrank, a member since Sept. 1, 1957; Eleanora Schmoekel, a member since Aug. 21, 1957; Dottie Bonkowski, a member since May 10, 1957; Evelyn Kropp, a member since Aug. 24, 1967; and Brian Beutnagel, a member since Sept. 21, 1967.

Kirby Lodge holds Christmas party; next meeting Jan. 8 KIRBY – The Kirby Lodge Christmas party included good food, gifts for the young ones, lots of gifts and cash donations for Boysville and games.

A correction needs to be made to the last report. The lodge’s next meeting will be held on the second Monday of the month, Jan. 8, because of the New Year’s Day holiday. Members are asked

to bring a side dish and/or dessert. The lodge will provide the chicken.

Door prize winners at the party were Julie Lyssy, Haydon Raborn, Allen Raborn, Leslie Stuman, Marvin Boeck, Jim McQuatters, Carroll Gloor, M.J. Netherton, Mary Ellen Muehlstein and Brodie Santos.

– Tammy Haecker

Ms. Skyler and the students from the Kirby School of Dance pose for a photo after their performance at the Kirby Lodge Christmas party.

Jennifer Johnson, center, is the recipient of the 2017 Humanitarian Award for Kirby Lodge.

Presenting the award are Carroll Gloor and Angela Netherton.

Jennifer is a volunteer at the Kirby/Bexar County Animal Shelter.

A representative from Boysville attended the Kirby Lodge Christmas party to accept donations.

Pictured are, from left, Vice President of Operations Samantha Schulmeier, the Boysville representative, Community Coordinator Judy Schulmeier and lodge President James McQuatters.

January 2018 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 31

Membership pins were presented during the New Braunfels Lodge Christmas party. Pictured are, back, from left, Darryl Schmidt, Vice President of Finance Harry Werland, Heinz Buchholz, David Giese, front, from left, Darvin Dietert and Ora Lee Benton.

New Braunfels Lodge members celebrating birthdays in December were, from left, Dorella Colbert, Jeanette Dietert, Lenora Mueller and Shirley Huebinger.

Michael and Shirley Huebinger were recognized at the New Braunfels Lodge Christmas party. The couple celebrated their 53rd anniversary in December.

NEW BRAUNFELS – New Braunfels Lodge will meet Jan. 7 at 3 p.m. at the lodge hall.

The meat will be provided and members are asked to bring side dishes or dessert.

The lodge hosted a holiday celebration on Dec. 3. A “Merry Christmas” letter was read from the Home Office officers, direc-

Giese, a member since July 11, 1947, Heinz Buchholz, a member since July 26, 1947, and Darvin Dietert, a member since Aug. 1, 1947.

Attendance-prize winners were Virginia Vetter, Karen Harborth, Bill Wenzel, Harry Werland, Dennis Schwab, Dorothy Moose, Dorothy Ebert, Martha

Stahl, Jeanette Dietert, Sandra Guenther, Leola Stolte and Lenora Mueller.

The afternoon social consisted of a games party and singing Christmas carols accompanied

by Rennie Guenther on guitar.

The hall was beautifully decorated in a Christmas theme including a Christmas tree.

Members wish Mary Jane Schwab and James Stolte a speedy recovery.

Members and guests enjoyed turkey, dressing and all the trimmings and dessert. The hosts were Karen Harborth, Dorella Colbert and Ethan Colbert.

– Reporter

New Braunfels holds Christmas party, to meet Jan. 7 tors and staff.

Vice President of Finance Harry Werland presented 60year and 70-year membership pins. Those receiving 60-year pins were Ora Lee Benton, a member since Jan. 11, 1957, and Darryl Schmidt, a member since Oct. 4, 1957. The 70year pin recipients were David

Richland donates to Circle of Hope Community Center RICHLAND – Richland Lodge ended the year with a Christmas party. Those who attended had a great time.

The lodge’s Make a Difference Day project was a huge success.

More than 325 personal hygiene items were collected and donated to the Circle of Hope Community Center. The items will benefit local families in need.

A huge thank-you goes to all who brought items or donated money to be used to purchase items. The lodge donated $100 in gift cards.

Members are reminded that there will not be a district installation in 2018. Richland Lodge officers will be installed at the Jan. 7 meeting that begins at 12

Richland Lodge President Tammy Kelley, left, presents $100 worth of gift cards to Tina from Circle of Hope.

Tina from Circle of Hope attended the Richland Lodge Christmas party to accept the hundreds of items donated to the organization that will distribute them to the needy in the community. Lodge President Tammy Kelley, left, presented the donations.

noon at the Richland Hall.

A personal note from Tammy Kelley, Richland Lodge president: Richland Lodge members

projects we have worked on in 2017. You are a great group of people. I look forward to 2018!

Hoping to see each Richland

are the best! Thank you to all who have made my job so much easier! I truly appreciate all your hard work on the many different

member at one monthly gathering in 2018! Why not bring a friend or two?

– Reporter

Montgomery will hold installation of officers on Feb. 19 CONROE – Montgomery Lodge celebrated Christmas with a party on Dec. 12 at Incredible Pizza.

The children were given gift cards so they could play games during the meeting.

Members were glad to see Jim Fisher. He has been ill and has missed a lot of meetings.

The 2018 officers were elected and will be Elaine Swaim, president; Lisa Moore, vice president;

Robert Prewitt, financial secretary/treasurer; and Kathy Prewitt, Marie Cook-Waxler and Jason Ballman, financial trustees.

The officers will be installed at the meeting on Monday, Feb. 19.

A potluck meal is planned.

Other meetings in 2018 will be held on Monday, April 16, Monday, Sept. 17, and Tuesday, Dec. 11. The December meeting will once again be held at Incredible

Pizza starting at 7 p.m.

Door prize winners were Charles Rine, Joyce Taylor, Elaine Swaim, Kathy Prewitt and Marlene Smith.

– Reporter

Page 32 – Hermann Sons Life – January 2018

Yorktown Lodge presents membership pins

Two members of Yorktown Lodge received their 70-year membership pins at the lodge’s Christmas party. Pictured are, from left, Vice President of Member Benefits Kim Krueger, pin recipients Albert C. Schroeder, a member since April 1, 1947, and Kenneth D. Reese, a member since Oct. 6, 1947; and lodge President Chris Hosinski. Al lives at the Retirement Home in Comfort. Kenneth lives in Seadrift.

Three members of Yorktown Lodge received their 60-year membership pins at the lodge’s Christmas party. Pictured are, from left, Vice President of Member Benefits Kim Krueger, pin recipients T.R. (Thomas) Kraege, a member since May 8, 1957; Gail Elaine Garcia, a member since Oct. 21, 1957; and Engelbert J. Biemer, a member since Aug. 6, 1957; and lodge President Chris Hosinski. All of the pin recipients live in Yorktown.

Corpus Christi plans business dinner

Kimber Riske, center, receives her 50-year membership pin from Yorktown Lodge President Chris Hosinski, left, and Vice President of Member Benefits Kim Krueger, right. Kimber lives in Yorktown and has been a member since Aug. 2, 1967.

Columbus will meet Feb. 12 COLUMBUS – Columbus Lodge will hold its first meeting of 2018 on Feb. 12 at 7 p.m.

The lodge celebrated Christmas with a social on Dec. 11 at Schobel’s Restaurant. Home Office representatives were Director David Noak and wife Mary and Agent Terrel Maertz and wife Robin. They each spoke briefly.

David presented Rhanda Fritsch Lattimore with her 50-year membership pin. Rhanda has been a member since Feb. 14, 1967.

The current officers were reelected for 2018.

Sympathy was extended to John Jr. and Elena Holub following the passing of his father, Johnnie Holub, on Dec. 4.

Celebrating recent birthdays were Rhanda Lattimore, Roy Menke, Virginia Lilie, Kenneth Wienken, Larry Huebel, Joshua Pina, Gladys Stolle, Louis Cordes and Karen Nixon in November and Adrian Fritsch, Dustin Lattimore, Adrienne Fritsch, Stephen Vogelsang, Karen Albert Flores, Elsie Kahlden, Jacqueline Nixon, Dolores Lund and David Peletz in December.

– Reporter

Jo Ann Hood is the recipient of the 2017 Corpus Christi Lodge Humanitarian Award. The award was presented posthumously to her husband and daughter at the Christmas party. Pictured are, from left, lodge President Frank Brandon, her daughter Katy Ball and husband Paul Hood.

Dewayne Hunt and Tim Welker play the candy cane game at the Corpus Christi Lodge Christmas party. Dewayne won the game among all the contestants.

CORPUS CHRISTI – Corpus Christi Lodge will hold a business dinner Jan. 9 at 6:30 p.m. at Nolan’s in Calallen. The 2018 officers will be installed.

The Christmas party was held Dec. 22.

Celebrating December birthdays were Tim Welker and Jenna Moseley. Celebrating a wedding anniversary were Greg and Ida Blankenship.

They have been married 42 years.

Special guest from the Home Office was Vice President of Operations Samantha Schulmeier.

– Reporter

Santa Claus (Ray Garcia) is pictured with Corpus Christi Lodge’s newest member Kamberlie Bainbridge at the Christmas party.

December 2017 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 33

Anton Wenzel plans memorial SAN ANTONIO – Anton Wenzel Lodge will hold its annual memorial service at the January meeting. Vice President Larry Burns will host the ceremony.

The families of those members who passed away in 2017 are invited to attend.

Members are asked to bring a side dish or dessert to go with the main dish the lodge will furnish.

Members enjoyed tamales and ham at the Dec. 5 meeting.

Carlos Juarez would have won the membership drawing but he was not there to claim his prize so his name is back in the barrel.

Thanks go to all the members who supported the lodge in 2017 with their hard work and participation at meetings and other events. The lodge had a great year and is looking forward to another one in 2018.

If you know of anyone interested in becoming a Hermann Sons Life member, call Agent

Emma Moya at 210-344-3935.

She will be more than happy to assist you and your family.

Elizabeth Dorrell is taking over as corresponding secretary and reporter in January. I am sad to be leaving my position as secretary and reporter but I must commit my time to my education and family. I want to thank you for this great opportunity. I am glad to have worked with my Anton Wenzel family. Thank you.

– Salina Barrientes

Delmus Brau from Anton Wenzel Lodge celebrated his birthday in December. He is pictured with President Edward Elizondo, left.

The split-the-pot winner at the December Anton Wenzel Lodge meeting was Eugene Kellner.

Merlinda Elizondo presented him with his winnings.

Maxwell to meet Jan. 7 MAXWELL – Maxwell Lodge will meet Sunday, Jan. 7, at the Maxwell Social Club. The installation of officers will be held and soup or stew is on the menu.

The Christmas party was held Sunday, Dec. 3, at the Olive Garden in San Marcos where everyone had a nice time.

– Reporter

Charlie and Tammy Seiter from Kypfer-Salge Lodge celebrated 21 years of marriage in November.

Celebrating November birthdays from KypferSalge Lodge were, from left, Jim Sureddin, Tammy Seiter and Tim Salge.

Kypfer-Salge Lodge will meet Jan. 5

McGregor Lodge presents pin, award Jerry Thane received his 70-year membership recently. Jerry lives in McGregor and is a member of McGregor Lodge. He became a member April 21, 1947.

SAN ANTONIO – Kypfer-Salge Lodge will meet Jan. 5. The lodge will provide the fried chicken. Members are asked to bring a side dish or dessert.

Members gathered Dec. 1 to enjoy snacks, sandwiches and desserts. Thanks go to everyone who helped prepare the food and tables and decorate the

lodge hall.

Nelrose Koepp reminded everyone to contact her if someone is need of a get-well card or if someone has passed away.

Attendance prize winners were Donna Sureddin, Charlie Seiter, Kathy Noble, Oran Koepp and Harold Friederick. The plant door prizes went to Kery Noble

and Kathy Noble.

If you know someone who does not drive, offer to pick them up for a meeting. If you know someone who would like to join the lodge or is thinking about joining, bring them to a meeting or social event to see how they like it.

– Darline Preiss

Cameron Lodge elects officers for 2018

McGregor Lodge President Doris Mooney, left, presents the 2017 Humanitarian Award to Robbie and Brenda Anderson.

Nanette Wells and Douglas Buck celebrated their November birthdays at the Cameron Lodge meeting.

The children attending the November Cameron Lodge meeting created and painted home decorations under the direction of Alyssa Ehler.

CAMERON – Cameron Lodge met Nov.14 at Bea’s Kitchen in Cameron where members enjoyed a chili dinner.

The 2018 officers were elected and include president, David Ehler; vice president, Jason Ehler; and secretary-treasurer, Douglas Buck.

Appointed to committees were Maxine Stoebner, Nanette Wells, Isyjean Korenek, Nettilee Korenek, Alyssa Ehler, John Duffy, Teresa Duffy, Alyssa Ehler, Judy York and Shirlynn Buck.

– Reporter

Page 34 – Hermann Sons Life – December 2017

Alayna Hernandez, Amelia Hernandez, Eliana Fonseca and Angelena Solis won these horns and noses as door prizes at the December meeting of El Campo Lodge.

New members of El Campo Lodge include Luis, Barbara, Julian and Eliana Fonseca.

Javier Hernandez and Amanda Harris show off their new Christmas stocking caps at the December meeting of El Campo Lodge.

EL CAMPO – El Campo Lodge met Friday, Dec. 1, at the Golden Phoenix Restaurant. Officers were elected and nine new members were welcomed.

The 2018 officers will be president, Dennis Wigginton; vice president, Donald Wigginton; secretary/treasurer, Cindy Witcher; trustees, Wade Newton, Phillip Wigginton and

Cynthia Wendel, Jim Sipos, Angelena Solis, Amelia Hernandez and Alayna Hernandez.

Lodge President Dennis Wigginton, who also is the lodge’s agent, discussed the importance of checking the value of a policy before deciding to cancel it.

Many build up cash value and are more valuable to keep

in the long run. He reminded everyone that life insurance is for the living; it helps them pay expenses left behind. He said he would be glad to talk with any member about their policy if they have questions.

Members celebrating birthdays in November were Dennis Wigginton, Willie Bender, Jo Ann Bender and Luis Fonseca.

Cindy Witcher celebrates a December birthday.

Jeanette and Jim Sipos celebrated their 15th anniversary in November while Donald and Ruby Wigginton celebrated 18 years in November.

The next meeting will be held on Friday, Feb. 8, at 6:30 p.m. at Mr. Gatti’s Pizza.

– Cindy Witcher

El Campo elects officers, welcomes new members Ruby Wigginton; and Finance Committee members Susan Hansen, Erica Wigginton and Warren Witcher.

The new members are Everly Hailey, Brandy Rodriguez, Jerred Levi, JaVonte Levi, JaLiyah Levi, Barbara Fonseca, Julian Fonseca, Luis Fonseca and Eliana Fonseca.

Guests for the evening were

Columbia Lodge to install officers at Jan. 7 meeting DALLAS – Columbia Lodge had a good turnout for the last meeting of the year and the annual steak dinner.

Thanks go to Jean Ernst who brought all the food, prepared the dinner, except for grilling the steaks, and has continued to do that for so many years. Jean is an angel on earth. She has selflessly attended to so many people over the years. Members owe Jean a debt of gratitude that no words can convey.

Jean has able assistance in the kitchen from Ok Hwa and Debra Hundley. You always see the ladies in the kitchen for most every event held at the Hall. Their service is appreciated.

Speaking of cooking, chef and President Bobby Wilbanks is the one I want to talk about right now.

I met Bobby back in my radio days and since our first encounter we have had some almighty times.

That was more than 25 years ago.

We both love music, friendship and a belief in the common bond

of humanity.

Bobby has been the lodge’s president for at least five years, maybe longer. He has led the lodge through some challenging times.

Bobby tirelessly promotes the Hall and espouses the motto of Friendship, Love and Loyalty in his day-to-day life. Columbia Lodge is lucky to have such a servant.

From SonsStock, the Pancake Breakfast, KNON events, blood drives, toy drives, picnics and other endeavors too many to note, Bobby has given of himself to the Hall, the lodge and the community.

And besides that he is one heck of a grill meister. Bobby and Juliea usually provide food for our lodge functions. Their service is noted in the hall’s history.

Columbia Lodge has once again teamed up with RL’s Blues Palace for the Greg A. Smith 15th Annual Toy Drive. Columbia Lodge donated $500 for toys for this annual event. And members were asked

to bring toys (especially bicycles) to the Christmas party on Dec. 16 people were asked to bring toys.

The goal this year is for 100 plus bicycles to be donated for the toy drive.

Columbia Lodge members helped on Dec. 22 when the toys were given out and the needy were fed.

Thanks go to all members who contributed to this project.

Also in December Columbia Lodge supported the KNON Toy Drive. At least a dozen members of the lodge attended the toy drive at the KNON studio, including Frosty the Snowman and Santa Claus. It was good to see Obie Obermark, Mark Munday, BP, David Pippin, Bobby and Juliea Wilbanks, Mark Martinek, Bob Sullivan, Dave Moynihan, Melody Ostman, Glenn Marvin, Debra Hundley, Mary Marcel and Selvyn Marvin, Anni and Ian Howe. This event benefits the Scottish Rite Hospital.

Columbia Lodge members

extend their thoughts and well wishes to Kelly and Steven Miller whose baby MJ is in the hospital undergoing tests and treatment.

A donation site has been set up on the lodge’s Facebook page.

Also heard that Anni Howe was trying to direct traffic at the Hall when a car banged into her, thus breaking her foot and keeping her on crutches for the next few months.

Also heard that Mike Sheffield has a new knee and that is why he and Kim were not at the December meeting. And a little bird said that Doug Caudill had torn his Achilles heel tendons while trying to ice skate on the pool when it got cold last week. Hope you are up and about and on the basketball court again soon Doug.

Stay safe and warm active folks.

We don’t need any more injuries on the team.

On other fronts, Cecilia Phillips reported on this year’s book drive.

This will be coming up in late February. Volunteers will be needed.

Columbia Lodge plans to ramp up the benevolent factor this year and we need your ideas, your espirit de corps, and your volunteer hours to make this all possible.

There is an effort under way to reach out to more members. Officers want to compile an email list of everybody in the lodge who uses social media for communicating. These avenues of communication will not replace the newsletter, but it would be beneficial to the members who spend a lot of time volunteering and coordinating activities at the Hall.

Next month we will have a way for you to contact the lodge with email information. Please note that the newsletter will still be the official newsletter as every member gets one in the mail.

The next meeting is set for Sunday, Jan. 7, at 3 p.m. at the Hall.

There will be a local installation of officers and Mrs. Butterworth has promised a wonderful meal.

– Dave Moynihan

December 2017 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 35

Agents Directory (alphabetized by area) Abilene Diane Marie Smith 325-665-2253 Adkins Alayna Menzer 210-413-0001 Roxy Pruski 210-667-1995 Austin Shirley Kuhen Faske 512-789-3975 Crystal Livingston 512-466-2433 Bandera Stephanie Brown 210-621-3891 Bellville Robert Herridge 979-865-3222 Bernardo/Columbus Robin Maertz 979-732-1687

Cibolo/Schertz Tracy Campos 210-860-6675 Judith Schulmeier, FIC 210-667-1938 Comfort Norma Bruns, FIC 830-995-3980

Georgetown Brad Klein, FIC 512-497-0678 Giddings Loretta Chilek, FIC 979-542-2806

Marion Lorene Bielke, FIC 830-420-2380

Linda Kieschnick, FIC 979-542-5224

Marshall Donald Robinette 903-690-3193

Betty H. Murphy 830-998-0860

Richard Symons 979-451-0988

Corpus Christi Frank Brandon 361-241-5593

Gonzales Bobbie Polasek 830-672-6317

Pearl Hunt 361-241-0940

Greg Polasek 830-540-4812

Troylyn Sisneros-Gonzalez 361-232-7413

Graham/Wichita Falls David Wolf 940-550-5202

Cuero Laura Tiffin Wayne Tiffin 361-275-8421

Hondo Stacy Saathoff 830-444-9160

Terrel Maertz 979-732-1727

Dallas Helen Tyson Brown 214-796-0668

Houston Anna Larie Keith 281-259-6337

Boerne/Fair Oaks Carl Behrendt 210-422-1159

Del Rio Pat Fritz, FIC 432-292-4483

Sarah Spencer 361-550-1883

Pam Poulk 210-753-2626

Devine Cynthia Sultenfuss 210-219-6409

Boerne Lisa Rozacky 210-838-3306 Marilyn Vogt, FICF 210-630-9874 Bryan Katherine Akin, FIC 979-823-8625 Caldwell Donnie Blinka 979-596-1309 Canyon Lake Sandra Duncan 830-905-3233 Castroville/La Coste Roger Bippert 210-737-4070 Castroville Glenford Boehme, FIC 210-219-9792

A list of agents also is available online at www.hermannsonslife.org

Edna/Jackson County Sam Matlock 361-782-3206 El Campo Dennis Wigginton 832-278-9636 Floresville/Poth Beth Cutsinger 210-325-6667

Lubbock April Behnke 806-797-3585

Gerald Ziemnicki 713-622-9001 Jourdanton Valerie M. Vick 210-748-5598 Katrina Wiatrek 210-326-9505 Karnes City Abigail Fenner 830-534-6982

Maxwell Charles Croley 512-357-6638 Needville Melissa Kostelnik 713-304-1692 Chris Stoeltje 979-559-6127 New Braunfels Shirley Huebinger 830-822-1942 Tim Salge 830-625-4816 Nixon-Smiley Blake Janicek 830-582-1581 Diana P. Moreno 830-379-2244 Orange Grove Paula Gebert 361-384-2375 Paige RaChelle Dube 512-740-3518 Pflugerville Julius Dubcak 512-272-8393

Russell Swize 830-780-4053

Port Lavaca Nancy Annette Walraven 361-552-9403

Floresville Lynn Wiede 830-393-4660

Kerrville Mary Muehlstein 830-896-5750

Priddy Ruth Witzsche, FIC 325-966-3757

Fort Worth Sandra Jones, FIC 817-295-2666

Kirby Angela Netherton 210-831-1293

Richmond Tanya Witcher 281-652-6606

Fredericksburg Todd Bierschwale 830-997-2130

La Coste Tanya Crisp 830-985-9230

Rockdale Judy Marie York 512-446-5914

Dennis Henke 830-997-5290

La Vernia Sharon Tanneberger, FIC 210-827-0526

Round Top/Rutersville Linda Mattocks 512-736-9988

George West Tracy Caron 361-449-0348

Marlin Tanneberger, FIC 210-827-7229

Marketing Department Staff

210-527-9113 • 877-437-6266 • 888-839-7667 Grand Vice President-Marketing Tim Kolbe timk@hermannsonslife.org Marketing Analyst Ana Vasquez, FLMI, AIRC, FIC anav@hermannsonslife.org Administrative Assistant Gladys Rowley gladysr@hermannsonslife.org Special Representatives: Dan Boenig - 210-705-1815 danb@hermannsonslife.org Becki Carley - 361-550-9358 beckic@hermannsonslife.org or beckicarley@yahoo.com Gary Falkenberg, FICF - 713-466-6069 • 713-899-4138 gfalken908@aol.com Eulla May Krueger - 210-863-0546 • 830-985-3643 eullak@hermannsonslife.org Teresa Saathoff - 210-276-0361 • 210-422-6996 teresaasaathoff@gmail.com Alfred Stryk, FICF, LUTCF - 281-485-4095 alstryk@sbcglobal.net

Rowena Kay F. Halfmann 325-442-4731

Seguin/San Antonio Carol Krauss, FIC 210-725-4106

San Antonio Philip A. Abell 210-771-1213

Seguin Annette D. Roecker 830-832-0724

Ruth Bailey 210-602-5147

Tina B. Ynfante 210-859-1973

John Hoog 210-226-8801

Diane Terp 830-305-3564

Darlene Irwin 210-392-2649

Spring Branch Gloria Gass 830-885-4405

Rayna Sue Irwin 210-710-7038 Clif Klabunde, FIC 830-980-4020 Valentin Lucero, FIC 210-725-6535 Jim McNeel 210-601-2097 Emma Moya 210-344-3935 Veronica Trejo 210-710-0932 San Marcos/Lockhart Janice Kuhen 512-393-1431 Schulenburg/Weimar Mary K. Seifert 979-743-0312 Schwertner Irene Schwertner 254-527-4470

Lisa Lanphere 830-221-8128 Stockdale Ronald Wiatrek 830-996-3005 Victoria Jason Hybner 361-652-6924 Victoria/Yoakum Laura Thigpen 361-676-8307 Yoakum Mary Koenig 361-293-1743 Yorktown Judy Wolf 361-564-2452

Page 36 – Hermann Sons Life – December 2017

Shining Stars New Year’s Day Word Search

Beginning Calendar Cards Celebration Cold Confetti End Fireworks Glasses Greetings In

You can be a Shining Star!

Just send us a photo of yourself (that we can keep) and fill out this form and send to: Tammi Sutherland, P.O. Box 1941, San Antonio, TX 78297.

The form is also available online, www.hermannsonslife.org. Photos of our Shining Stars are also featured online.

Midnight New Old Out Reflection Resolution Ribbon Snow Toast Wine

Winter Crossword

Name: Birthday: Home Phone: Daytime Phone: Address: City:

Zip:

E-mail Address: Grade in school: Favorite Food: Pets: Favorite TV Show: Activities: Answers to both puzzles on Pg. 11.

It is OK with my parents that I am featured as a “Shining Star” in the Hermann Sons Life newspaper, website and any other advertising publications.

Parent’s Signature: I am a member of

Lodge No.

Certificate No.______________________________________________________

Across 1. Man made of snow 5. Covers the ground 8. Covers ponds and lakes 9. Season at the end of the year 10. Time off from school or work 12. Flakes that fall from the sky

Down 2. These keep your hands warm 3. Month of Christmas holiday 4. Keeps your neck warm 6. January 1 7. Winter sport 11. Opposite of hot

You can be a Shining Star!

Members 17 and younger can become Shining Stars! Shining Stars are featured in Hermann Sons Life each month and receive a fun packet in the mail. Shining Stars and their families are invited to a special event each year. In the past,

Shining Stars have visited Sea World, Fiesta Texas and Schlitterbahn.To sign up, use the form on this page or sign up online at www.hermannsonslife.org. The Shining Stars are featured on this page and on our Shining Stars website page.