Production Editors: Karen Ferguson, Timothy Rodman
Art Director, Design and Layout: Rachel Cummins
Contributing Writers: Laqueeta Coleman, Rachel Cummins, Ken Elliott, Karen Ferguson, Natasha Herleman, Jessica Inman, Mary Koczan, Autumn Krewson, Anna Meek, Timothy Rodman and Jennifer Stockdale
VP/Head of Compliance and Human Resources—Antoinette Blair
GBU LIFE NATIONAL DIRECTORS
Chairman of the Board—Lea Ann Hazi
David E. Bevins
Joseph S. Bielecki
Frank Bria
William W. Hunt, CEO
Christina MacKellar, CPCU, CIC
David L. Pringle
John Swanick
MEDIA CONSENT AND RELEASE NOTICE
GBU Life personnel, members, districts and others may take pictures, make recordings or produce videos at GBU Life events. In an effort to promote activities and increase public awareness, these may be published in The Reporter, on GBU Life and district websites, in the GBU Life member community, on social media outlets and in other locations. By participating in GBU Life events or by submitting pictures, recordings or videos directly to GBU Life, all members and other parties consent to the release and use of these pictures, recordings or videos and waive any rights to royalties or any potential liability relating to such.
HOME OFFICE HOURS
Monday—Friday: 8 AM—5 PM ET Saturday and Sunday: Closed
LIKE, FOLLOW AND SHARE!
While we often insure our homes, cars and other valuables without question, it’s easy to overlook the most important asset of all — yourself.
If you totaled up the cost of everything you own — your house, car, even that dream boat — it still wouldn’t come close to the value of your life and the future you provide for your loved ones. You are irreplaceable — far more valuable than any possession.
GBUFOUNDATION PITTSBURGH
Est. 1963
2025 Scholarship and Grant Recipients
Congratulations to this year’s group of students who have been awarded scholarships and grants from the GBU Foundation Scholarship Program.
2025 Four-Year Scholarship Awards
These students each received a $1,500 scholarship from the GBU Foundation.
Hayden Conner District 999 – National Engineering
Texas A&M University, College Station
Anna Engelman District 684 – Pittsburgh, PA Engineering
Rachel Redinger Public History Duquesne University
GBU Life District 707 – Grand Rapids, MI Scholarships ($1,000)
Peyton Korytkowski
Architecture University of Tennessee
Preston Korytkowski
Computer Science
Michigan State University
Shelby Korytkowski Doctor of Veterinary Medicine
Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine
GBU Life District 815 – Dayton, OH Educational Grant ($750)
Helen Brzozowski
Materials Engineering
Purdue University
GBU Life District 3000 – HRFA Scholarships ($1,000)
Sofia Jalso
Finance University of Washington
Megan Mischak
Environmental Science University of Central Florida
John Roppanto
Marketing
Franciscan University of Steubenville
Liliana Varga
Undeclared
Marquette University
Zalan Varga
Business Administration and Management
Corvinus University of Budapest
Gracie Putnam District 707 – Grand Rapids, MI
Chemistry Hope College
Special Designation Scholarships, Continued
GBU Life District 5000 – IOV Grand Lodge Scholarships ($1,750)
Cole Bloomquist Criminal Justice Jamestown Community College
Grayson Bloomquist Undeclared Jamestown Community College
Baylor Hirliman Criminal Justice Jamestown Community College
Samantha Jost Undeclared
Michigan Technological University
Ruby Meyer Undeclared Mercyhurst University
Donnilynn Sheldon Undeclared SUNY Fredonia
2025 Community Educational Grants
These students each received a one time $1,000 grant from the GBU Foundation.
Abigail Bodart Trinity High School Neuroscience University of Pittsburgh
Brooklyn Joyce Baldwin High School
Business Management St. John Fisher University
Mya McCloskey
Elizabeth Forward High School Undeclared
The Pennsylvania State University
Karina Pfeil
Brentwood Senior High School
Fashion Design Kent State University
Other GBU Life District Scholarships
GBU Life District 1000 – LFA Scholarship ($1,000)
Emily Drost District 1000 – LFA Nursing, Biology Wayne State University
Christopher Kloha Cybersecurity
Michigan Technological University
GBU Life District 2000 – ULS College and Seminary Scholarships ($750)
Aida Castelli Finance Florida International University
Rob Gorman Mechanical Engineering Purdue University
Kate Kalmanowicz Pharmacy Ohio Northern University
Lilly Kulaga Business Administration University of Michigan (Ann Arbor)
Caelen Plummer Business Administration University College London
Addison Vandegriff Elementary Education West Virginia University
Zach Zornan Ferguson Business Administration West Virginia University
GBU Life District 2000 – ULS Graduate, Business, Community College or Trade School Scholarship ($750)
Christopher Nemecek Business
The Pennsylvania State University
2025 GBU Life High School Freshman Grants
These students each received a $250 grant from GBU Life.
Hayden Bartel District 043 – Swiss Society, Milwaukee, WI
Mylee Beyer District 146 – Johnstown, PA
Brayden Browne District 815 – Dayton, OH
Mariska Csernak District 999 – National
Graham Daubenspeck District 171 – Pittsburgh, PA
Elke DeVos District 821 – Sterling Heights, MI
Forrest Diem District 707 – Grand Rapids, MI
Katelyn Dieter District 815 – Dayton, OH
Cecilia DiSalvo District 815 – Dayton, OH
Tyler Faust District 146 – Johnstown, PA
Rebekah Foringer District 171 – Pittsburgh, PA
Sandy Glover District 4000 – Sokol USA
Beryl Gore District 684 – Pittsburgh, PA
Madison Harman District 510 – Toledo, OH
Brynn Hilberer District 999 – National
Kate Hill District 999 – National
Benedek Jalics District 3000 – HRFA
Kendall Koeller District 999 – National
Maeli Kornbau District 684 – Pittsburgh, PA
Cascia Linn District 999 – National
Brooklyn Lounsbury District 4000 – Sokol USA
Mary Ella Maechner District 810 – Cleveland, OH
Scott Mendel District 684 – Pittsburgh, PA
Nugent Moore District 510 – Toledo, OH
GBUFOUNDATION
Michelle Myers District 999 – National
Londyn Nagle District 684 – Pittsburgh, PA
Erica Neuberger District 043 – Swiss Society, Milwaukee, WI
Addison Overly District 171 – Pittsburgh, PA
Brielle Papa District 510 – Toledo, OH
Alex Poloskei District 684 – Pittsburgh, PA
Emma Putnam District 707 – Grand Rapids, MI
Beau Rericha District 171 – Pittsburgh, PA
Timothy Sattelmeier District 1000 – LFA
Edward Schimmel District 510 – Toledo, OH
Ellie Schneider District 815 – Dayton, OH
Khloe Schroeder-Kelling District 171 – Pittsburgh, PA
Ashlyn Seefeldt District 171 – Pittsburgh, PA
Elizabeth Shah District 999 – National
Vanessa Smith District 999 – National
Olivia Sommer District 4000 – Sokol USA
Elijah Southern District 999 – National
Ella Southern District 999 – National
Patrick Vanic District 999 – National
Coraline Wakefield District 3000 – HRFA
Elena Wakefield District 3000 – HRFA
Meredith Wakefield District 3000 – HRFA
Sandor Zajacz District 171 – Pittsburgh, PA
Graham Zimmerman District 510 – Toledo, OH
Want to be a part of the GBU Foundation Scholarship Program? Contact the GBU Foundation at gbufoundation@gbu.org or 412 884 5100 or 800 765 4428 to discuss options for funding a scholarship or grant.
Est. 1963
District 45 — Altoona, Pennsylvania
The district officers would like to wish everyone a happy fall. Fall officially arrived on September 22. Enjoy the autumn season and nature’s beauty and participate in some activities at a local fall festival. Be sure to stock up on candy for the Trick-or-Treaters when they come to call for Halloween.
We were able to present a check to Dreams Go On Therapeutic Riding Stable in May and had the opportunity to get close and personal with some of the horses in the program.
Presenting a check to Dreams Go On Therapeutic Riding Stable in May, with a chance to meet some of the horses.
This May and June, many of our officers were busy helping the PA Federation of Fraternal Clubs Blair County Unit #1, as we hosted the State Convention in Altoona. Units from across the state attended to learn about upcoming changes in laws and to enjoy fraternal activities. One of the activities was a visit to a local museum, the Baker Mansion, which is a great place to learn about local history.
Officers helped host the PA Federation of Fraternal Clubs State Convention in Altoona, including a visit to the historic Baker Mansion.
A big “Thank You” goes out to the Home Office for their hard work that went into the District Forum in May. It was educational and we left with some new ideas. It was great having the opportunity to participate in fraternal activities with old friends and make some new friends too.
Upcoming District Events
Our fall pie sale to benefit the St. Vincent DePaul Assumption Chapel Food Pantry started on October 8. Orders are due to me by Sunday, November 9. Assorted fruit and meringue pies, as well as pumpkin rolls, are available to order. Due to a scheduling conflict with the Pie Shoppe, the pies will be delivered on Friday, November 21. Pies can be picked up between 10 AM and noon on Friday, November 21 or Saturday, November 22 at the food pantry. The pies make a great Thanksgiving treat and freeze well in a gallon-size Ziploc bag for the Christmas holiday.
We will be collecting donations for the Assumption Chapel Food Pantry during November. Donations can be dropped off at the food pantry on the days of the pie sale. If you need donations picked up, contact John and Robin Kessler at 814-943-4481.
Join us and the Federation of Fraternal Clubs, Blair County Unit #1, for the Veterans’ Day Parade scheduled for Tuesday, November 11, in downtown Altoona. Contact John and Robin Kessler for more information. Be sure to “Thank a Veteran” for their dedication and commitment to serving our great country.
The children’s Christmas party will be held in December in conjunction with the Unter Uns Club in Altoona, PA. There will be games, crafts, food and fun. Santa will be stopping in to check up on all the children, young and old, so be on your best behavior. Contact me for more information and to sign up.
Monthly Meetings
We would like to welcome new members who have recently joined GBU Life and District 45. We invite you to participate in one of our many activities and have the chance to meet some of our other members. Contact me if you would like a copy of the District Calendar of Events or more information about our district. Monthly meetings are held at 6 PM on the second Wednesday of the month at the Unter Uns Club located at Van Buren Ave and 14th Street in Altoona. No meetings will be held in January, July, November
Thank you to the Home Office for a successful May District Forum filled with learning, ideas and fraternal fellowship.
District 45 — Altoona, Pennsylvania, Continued or December. Come learn, support and get involved in fraternal activities!
- Robin Kessler, Fraternal Secretary 814-943-4481 or rob1jon@atlanticbb.net
District 146 — Johnstown, Pennsylvania
Greetings and welcome to enjoy the beautiful colors of the fall season.
Time to remind everyone to donate to this year’s Operation Reach Out project. With the holidays quickly approaching, the district is accepting donations to support 1st Summit Bank’s Annual Needy Children Shopping Tour 2025. Donations can be mailed to Moxham GBU Life District 146 Children’s Christmas Fund, 40 Bridge Street, Johnstown, PA 15902.
Upcoming District Events
Upcoming district events include continued support of the Tribune Democrat Santa Fund, the Women’s Help Center Angel in Shelter program and the St. Vincent DePaul Food for Families. Some holiday activities (yet to be determined) will be held in the clubroom, with the proceeds benefiting various projects. The district will hold an adult Christmas Party (date to be determined), open to club members as a thank-you for supporting district projects.
Monthly Meetings
Meetings are usually held at 7 PM on the second Monday of the month (except July). Meetings are at the Moxham Beneficial Home Association, 40 Bridge Street in Johnstown, PA. Call 814539-1290 with questions. Meeting dates are subject to change. Check the bulletin board in the clubroom or contact a district officer for any changes.
- Barbara Weimer, Fraternal Secretary/Treasurer 814-255-4710 or bkweimer@verizon.net
District 510 — Toledo, Ohio
Greetings from District 510
Before our May monthly meeting, we enjoyed a delicious chicken alfredo dinner prepared by Chef Lynne Shoupe , Olive Garden breadsticks and salad. At the meeting, it was announced that there are two GBU Life 510 member scholarships, along with the Fritz Bertz GBU Life 510 scholarship, available this year.
We met on May 28 at the Maibaum at Oak Shade Grove for a Helping Hands event. Volunteers weeded, prepped the beds, planted 20 flats of fresh flowers and mulched the Maibaum Garden.
We enjoyed a steak roast before the June 17 monthly meeting. Everyone cooked their own steaks. A “big thanks” to everyone who helped. Special thanks to Marilyn Riedeman for procuring the steaks, Lynne Shoup for the baked potatoes and corn on the cob and Hildegard Ruelke for cutting and plating the delicious desserts.
At the July GAF Trustees Meeting, GBU Life 510 President Tom Riedeman presented GAF President Ben Krieger with a $40,000 check as a donation for the GAF Chalet Roof repairs.
On July 12, District 510 members and guests traveled to Frankenmuth, Michigan. Members and guests enjoyed snacks and beverages on the chartered bus, enjoyed a deluxe dinner of chicken and German meats at the Bavarian Inn and experienced shopping in downtown Frankenmuth, river boats and a visit to Bronner’s on the way home.
GBU Life 510 members and the Toledo Holzhacker Buam Schuhplattler dancers attended the 2025 Schwäbischer and Teutonia Chor Waldfest mit Gesang at Oak Shade Grove on July 19. The THB adults and kinder Gruppen entertained the crowd with a multitude of dance performances.
GBU Life 510 members joined the Toledo Holzhacker Buam Schuhplattler dancers at the 2025 Waldfest mit Gesang on July 19.
On July 20, we met for our Annual District 510 Member Picnic at Tom and Marilyn Riedeman’s Farm. There was a wonderful selection of fabulous foods as everyone brought a dish to share, and GBU Life furnished the meats and drinks. Our 2025 Miss GBU Life Queen Taylor Wolfram was introduced to the attendees. We also held a short meeting, primarily to discuss the GAF “Feed the Workers” event. Many thanks to Tom and Marilyn for their gracious hospitality.
Upcoming District Events
November Monthly Meeting and Officer Elections: Tuesday, November 18
Monthly Meetings
For current news on GBU Life District 510 events, please check
Volunteers met May 28 at Oak Shade Grove’s Maibaum to plant and refresh the garden.
District 510 gathered July 20 at Tom and Marilyn Riedeman’s Farm for the annual picnic, highlighted by great food, fellowship and the introduction of 2025 Miss GBU Life Queen Taylor Wolfram
District 510 — Toledo, Ohio, Continued
the GBU Life District 510 Facebook page. Looking forward to seeing everyone at our future meetings. If you have not been to a meeting lately, please join us for a light dinner and fellowship, followed by our monthly meeting. Our regular meetings are held on the third Tuesday of each month at the GAF. The meal is served starting at 6 PM, and our meeting starts at 7 PM.
- Jackie Martin, District Secretary
District 684 — Brentwood, Pennsylvania
In May, District President Gary Madison and District Treasurer Diane Gallagher had the opportunity to attend GBU Life’s District Forum in Geneva-on-the-Lake, Ohio.
It was a nice weekend where officers from each GBU Life District had the chance to meet up with old friends and make new ones. On Friday, presentations were given on GBU Life’s growth as a Society, how members can become leaders in their communities, connecting generations and how the American Fraternal Alliance advocates and supports fraternal benefit societies across the country. Participants engaged in roundtable discussions concerning matters such as district event engagement, community partnerships, GBU Life product knowledge and exploring GBU Life’s member benefits. After a long day, attendees enjoyed a sunset cruise on Lake Erie.
Saturday’s agenda included a presentation from the American Red Cross, an emergency kit build and a CPR lesson. Afterwards, attendees enjoyed an activity of their choice and an awards banquet in the evening. We were excited when our district was announced as the recipient of the 2024 Sponsorship and Promotions Leader Award.
Saturday featured Red Cross training, activities and an awards banquet where our district received the 2024 Sponsorship and Promotions Leader Award.
Upcoming District Events
Don’t forget to mark your calendar for the district’s Brunch with Santa on Sunday, November 30, at South Hills Country Club.
Monthly Meetings
Please contact District President Gary Madison at gmadison1@verizon.net or Home Office contact Mary Koczan at mary.koczan@gbu.org for information regarding our meetings and events.
- Judy Bickel, Acting Fraternal Secretary
District 699 — Frankenmuth, Michigan
Fraternal greetings from GBU Life 699. It has been a whirlwind of activity for our district this quarter.
In April, things started pretty normally with a general meeting taking place at Wangs Bistro in Frankenmuth on April 16. This is a popular Chinese food restaurant that we like because they have a large private room they let us utilize for our meeting. There was much talk about summer events and the upcoming district forum, as well as donations to be given and fun to be had.
In May, the work and fun began. May 3, we celebrated Join Hands Day by visiting the facilities of the Mustard Seed so that we could work on their landscaping, which was indeed in need of some sprucing up. Mustard Seed is a women’s shelter for those in need to get off drugs and get training to become self-sufficient. The facility we went to is basically a large, converted house that serves as a shelter for those women and their children in need. This is in a residential neighborhood. Since some of the women are seeking refuge from abusive spouses, we have donated money that will be used to upgrade the facilities’ door locks and security camera system. For Join Hands Day, we cut and edged the lawn and added mulch to surround the facility. They were very happy with our work, and we received many thanks from the residents.
After a full day of landscaping, we paid a visit as a group to Baldwin BBQ for a late lunch. The owner of Baldwins was there and is himself a hometown hero who runs One Week One Street, where a large group of locals go to a street in a depressed neighborhood and help their neighbors with lawn care, house painting and outside repairs, as well as general cleanup of broken glass and other debris. The streets that have been cleaned up in the past are transformed, and over the many years this has been done, it is noted that the community as a whole has kept up since.
Our late lunch was amazing, and we also gave Mr. Baldwin a check for our support (sponsorship) of One Week One Street, which was held in late June. We had five of our members in attendance for One Week One Street this year, and we were proud to be a part of the cleanup.
Volunteers celebrated Join Hands Day on May 3 by sprucing up the landscaping and supporting security upgrades at Mustard Seed.
The 699-group presenting a check at Baldwin BBQ, home to a local hero who leads One Week One Street to revitalize neighborhoods in need.
For the District Forum, we had a group of six of our members in attendance. Imagine my surprise when we found out that our little district won District of the Year! We were floored and humbled by the acknowledgment by our peers of the work our district puts in. This only solidifies our focus on future events and expanding participation and membership.
We had a general meeting soon after the District Forum on May 28 to share the great news and to also share the ideas and knowledge gained from the workshops that we attended.
On June 14, the Bavarian Festival was drawing thousands upon thousands of folks from all over America, as well as the world, to Frankenmuth, Michigan. And GBU Life 699 stood tall with our own booth set up at the Michigan Vintage VW Car show area to promote GBU Life to the masses.
Laqueeta Coleman was at our booth giving out GBU Life swag and explaining the virtues of GBU Life with a new handout, which is a fast-track explanation as to what GBU Life is and why you should consider joining as a member. This clever handout was shop-talked at the District Forum, and the end result is fabulous. It even has one of those QR codes on it that takes you right to the gbu.org welcome page! We intend to make good use of these half-page handouts in the future.
We had a district meeting on June 18 to talk about the effectiveness of the booth at the show and to talk about having a similar setup at the Volkslauf, which is a running event for charity, hosted by the Jaycees on July 4. GBU Life 699 is a sponsor of this event, and we had a very active booth and gave away much swag. We also got to talk to many folks about the good that GBU Life does for the community and how they can get involved. For this event, I got to be the “SwagMaster.” Thanks go out to Laqueeta Coleman for procuring the swag for the event on pretty short notice. We not only gave away some cool GBU Life swag but also gave out a lot of the new GBU Life fast-track handout cards with the QR code.
We also had the Loons Baseball game on August 27 as well as one of our many meetings at Davincies (our home restaurant in Frankenmuth), and one at Famous Dave’s BBQ in Saginaw on September 17.
Upcoming District Events
As you can see, we were pretty active this quarter and look forward to many more upcoming events. We have many upcoming meetings, including one on October 19 at Don Felipe’s in Clio, Michigan.
Monthly Meetings
If anyone would like to attend one of our meetings and needs more information, please contact me (District Secretary Dan Pierce) at dan.pierce@mail.com (yes, mail, not Gmail!).
- Dan Pierce, Fraternal Secretary dan.pierce@mail.com
District 701 — Pontiac, Michigan
Greetings, fellow GBU Life 701 members. This fall is bringing us out of yet another busy and successful season of entertainment and festivities to further our continued preservation of the DASV, all through the fraternal programs the GBU Life is providing. Thank you GBU Life!
The DASV Pig Roast in June was perfectly scheduled and ran quite smoothly! Although the attendance was a tad lighter than in past years, everyone who participated in the event had a very good time, and the weather cooperated fully all day! *(note to self, try to distribute more flyers for next year’s event and let’s see what prevails!?) As always, thank you to Tommy Schober for livening up the festivities throughout the day, and thank you for acknowledging the support from #701 GBU Life at EVERY event! We are so proud to represent!!
The GBU Life day at the Detroit Zoo was somehow snuck right in between rainy days, (not sure how they figured that one out), but the hundred-ish GBU Life members who came out to share a good time were a lot of fun! Some of us had the opportunity to actually get out and walk the 25 miles of zoo, with some remarks about how tired and dried up most of the animals looked. Maybe it was simply the heat. Did I hear remarks on
Five of our members proudly joined this year’s One Week One Street, helping with the community cleanup effort.
Six members attended the District Forum, where our district was honored and humbled to be named District of the Year.
District 701 — Pontiac, Michigan, Continued
planning a new destination next year?
At the end of July, we celebrated the DASV Schutzenfest! It was a beautiful day with 90+ degrees and sun! Combine that with the music of Tommy Schober and the Sorgenbrecher, the abundance of good food and drinks, and you have a GREAT day. An appearance by the GBU Life #999 gang from Frankenmuth was another special treat! Leo Ohlendorf of GBU Life #999 graciously presented to President Jim Binder of the DASV with a few mementos from past events, including a 1975 winter pokal, a glass pokal and a commemorative “Scheveningen” coin “Danke Schoen” to GBU Life #999. We all hope you enjoyed the day! A special shout out to longtime GBU Life #701 member Herb T. for bringing his daughter and son-in-law with a table of his friends to come out and dance and enjoy the day with us! It was a GREAT time!
We closed out July at the DASV Schutzenfest with sunshine, music, food and friends—highlighted by special guests from GBU Life #999 and a joyful day of celebration.
Look for the next issue of The Reporter – update on our long-awaited Detroit Train Station Tour and also the DASV OKTOBERFEST!
There’s a rumor going around that we may be seeing a new DASV ticket booth soon.
Monthly Meetings
Please consider joining GBU Life and talk with us at a #701 meeting - usually held on the first Tuesday of the month at the DASV clubhouse on Auburn Road. It’s always smart to phone ahead for specific days and times of the meetings, depending on the season, or check the online community at inside.gbu.org
GBU Life is still the best bet for your long-term investing and financial stability!
- Richard A. De Arment, District Secretary 248-709-4949 or metrodetroitbroker@gmail.com
District 707 — Grand Rapids, Michigan
On June 7, we traveled to Cromwell’s Turkeyville for a delicious Turkey Dinner and all the fixings! We also saw the play “Nunsense,” which had us laughing at the great comedic production. Fun-filled day as we also had Bingo on the bus!
On June 7, members enjoyed a turkey dinner, the comedy play Nunsense and Bingo on the bus at Cromwell’s Turkeyville.
At our meeting on June 25, we enjoyed burgers and hot dogs grilled by 6th Street Hall as a fundraiser for their kids Christmas party! It was so great to help their fundraiser and enjoy the great meal! We had a ”Fill The Bag” day for Matthews House Ministry, which is a nonprofit organization committed to helping youth and families in our community facing challenges such as homelessness, substance abuse and educational support. We filled over 100 bags for this organization.
On June 29, we took a bus to the Wilwin Lodge at Cygnet Cove, which was founded to serve all veterans, providing a sanctuary of rest and recuperation, especially for our disabled combat Veterans or those who have post traumatic stress disorder or traumatic brain injury. Danny Kwee treated the bus to ice cream cones on the way home. Thank you, Danny, for the great surprise!
On June 29, members visited Wilwin Lodge at Cygnet Cove for veterans.
GBU Life has sponsored the West Michigan Jazz Society for the four Mondays in July. The society was organized to promote, preserve and perpetuate live Jazz performances free of charge at Millennium Park in Walker, Michigan.
Also in July, the Blue Star Mothers was the speaker presentation at our Wednesday meeting on July 23. We contributed all sorts of goods for them to ship to active deployed military.
District 707 — Grand Rapids, Michigan, Continued
Monthly Meetings
Please join us at our meetings on the fourth Wednesday of the month April through October. In November, our meeting is on the third Wednesday of the month due to the Thanksgiving holiday. At our meetings, we start with the Pledge of Allegiance and sing God Bless America to remind us of the great country we live in. We would like your feedback on the events we have planned for 2026, so join us to discuss it at the meetings. We always have fun fraternalization before and after the meeting.
God bless all of you.
Respectfully submitted,
- Judy Cwiklinski, District Secretary 616-560-6983 or jcwik227@yahoo.com
District 815 — Dayton, Ohio
Judy Schneider, Trudy Campbell , Wilfred and I attended the GBU Life District Forum at Geneva-on-the-Lake this past May. We had an enjoyable time and learned many things, which we shared with our members.
The Germanfest Picnic was a fantastic success, thanks to the help of our many volunteers and the wonderful guests who attended.
At least these are our hopes, as I write this article before the picnic. We were proud to present Dayton Liederkranz with a $1,000 check.
Dayton Liederkranz has outstanding volunteers, and we were pleased that we could help them.
Richard Haber was someone special to so many of us. He treasured his family. He enjoyed soccer, bowling and classical music and was a chess master. We send our condolences to his loving family.
On October 11, we attended the Breast Cancer Walk – Making Strides of Greater Dayton. GBU Life joined the Mel’s Busty Belles Team at Dayton Air Ball Park
Upcoming District Events
Saturday, November 8, from 8:30 AM to 1 PM – Hospice Remembrance Walk, 324 Wilmington Avenue. We will be walking as a group.
Saturday, November 8, at 4 PM – Liederkranz – St. Martin’s Walk
– Reservations are required. Supplies for the kits are made in advance.
Please join us. We have fostered many valuable friendships and would enjoy sharing them with you!
Additional Information
GBU Life’s Insurance and Annuity Products are excellent. Fixed Index Annuities are a type of investment that offers the opportunity to earn interest based on the performance of a stock market index, while protecting against market downturns. Please contact us if we can be of help to you.
- Chris van Breukelen, FIC, District Secretary/Treasurer 937-885-4784 or wvanbreukelen@compuserve.com
District 821 — Sterling Heights, Michigan
Summer has arrived, flowers are blooming in abundance and vegetables are growing in the garden, ready to be picked and preserved. It is a good time for gardeners.
We started the quarter with our new president, David Bohde, who led his first meeting according to GBU Life requirements. He has new ideas for us to benefit from and improve our work. Our district had requested to be an official affiliated organization to the German American Cultural Center, and that was accepted at their March 10 meeting.
The second suggestion was the purchase of a defibrillator, which would be good to have in case of an emergency. It would be stored at the GACC.
The GBU Life choir honored two former members who are no longer with us. We sang at our former president, Edith Kuplent’s Celebration of Life, and most of us also sang at former member Vera Weiss’ funeral.
We supported the GACC “Bye, Bye Winter” event on April 25 with music by our DJ Wildschwein , as well as good food, spirits, cake and coffee.
The Michigan-Ohio Chorale, led by our own District 821 member Erwin Aufdemberge , featuring singers accompanied by organ and instrumental ensemble, presented a variety of classical and religious selections of music on April 27.
Pictured here are Ken Kreutzer, myself, John Koerner, Judy Schneider and Debbie Venys
The GBU Life Choir honored former members Edith Kuplent and Vera Weiss in song.
The Michigan-Ohio Chorale, led by Erwin Aufdemberge, performed classical and religious music on April 27.
The annual Maibaum celebration was held on May 4 at the DASV Marksmen Club. This year included the Carpathia Club’s children’s dance group to join in performing the traditional “Tanz um den Maibaum”, although it had to be moved inside due to the rain.
GBU Life Home Office had its annual forum for the district officers at Geneva-on-the-Lake in Ohio from May 15-18. The weekend was filled with good food, exciting activities and a variety of informative roundtable discussions. It was an excellent opportunity to collaborate with the representatives from other districts and the home office.
The GBU Life Saxonia Choir Spring Concert was held on June 1 at the GACC. It was a beautiful Sunday afternoon filled with a variety of classical and folk music, as well as a special guest performance of a saxophone quartet – four high school students from Rochester High School. Afterwards, we enjoyed coffee and a variety of cakes.
The balance of June included more food and fun, including the DASV Pig Roast on June 14, the GACC’s Mexican Night on June 20, and the trip to the Detroit Zoo on June 28, which was sponsored by our Home Office and welcomed all Michigan districts.
June events included GACC’s Mexican Night on June 20. We are looking forward to the DASV Schützenfest on July 27, our GBU Life picnic at the German Church grounds on July 13, and the GACC Deutsche Tag on August 10.
On October 5, we celebrated German American Day at the GACC and also had the GACC Halloween Family Party on October 24.
Upcoming District Events
Sunday, November 16 – Volkstrauertag in Battle Creek
Sunday, November 23 – GBU Life Fall Concert at GACC
Saturday, December 6 – Singing at Waltenwood, Lakeside
Sunday, December 7 – GACC Christmas Party
Friday, December 12 – GBU Life Christmas Party at GACC
Saturday, December 13 – SMC Christmas Concert
Sunday, December 14 – GBU Life sings at Historic Trinity
Fraternally yours,
- Marianne Krenzer, District Secretary 586-996-1169 or mekrenzer@hotmail.com
District 1000 — Lutheran Fraternities of America (LFA)
Dear Members,
“Autumn leaves don’t fall; they fly. They take their time and wander on this, their only chance to soar.” - Toni Sorenson
Membership News
39th Annual Concordia Food-A-Thon – This was Richard Hallgren’s favorite charity and fundraiser of the year. Rosanne and Glenn Penzien drove to Ft. Wayne and delivered two checks: $12,555 from District 1000 (Churches / LWML / Ladies Aid / Membership) and $5,000 from GBU Life Home Office. Rosanne and Glenn Penzien presented the checks to the Rev. Charles Gieschen, Provost of CTSFW.
The 2025 District Forum, in May 2025, at The Lodge at Genevaon-the-Lake, Ohio, was attended by Rosanne Penzien and Glenn Penzien. They gained knowledge about GBU Life, enjoyed fellowship with other GBU Life fraternal members and helped assemble bags for the Red Cross.
Rosanne and Glenn Penzien presented checks to Rev. Charles Gieschen at the 39th Annual Concordia Food-A-Thon.
Rosanne and Glenn Penzien attended the 2025 District Forum at Geneva-onthe-Lake, Ohio.
Mel Ott Lutheran Night with GBU Life was held on August 8. Our members enjoyed a buffet dinner, some photo opportunities with some of the baseball players and a great game between Utica Unicorns and Eastside Diamond Hoppers. After the game, there was a spectacular fireworks display!
The Annual Corn Roast and Cornhole Event was held on August 22, from 5:30-7 PM. This annual event was well attended, and everyone had a wonderful time. A delicious meal was served that included delicious corn on the cob, hot dogs, salad and, of course, Twinkies.
Karmanos Cancer is located at McLaren Macomb Hospital. Rosanne Penzien presented some GBU Life tote bags to Katherine Candela, Oncology Social Worker, for use by the oncology patients when visiting the food pantry.
Penzien presented GBU Life tote bags to Karmanos Cancer patients at McLaren Macomb Hospital.
The Honorable Carl Gerds III Memorial Golf Outing was held on September 13, at Maple Lane Golf Club in Sterling Heights, MI. The day began at LFA #57 hall with a bagel and Bloody Mary continental breakfast bar from 10–11:30 AM. Registration followed at Maple Lane from 12–1 PM, leading into a 1 PM sharp shotgun start.
Golfers participated at a rate of $120 per person, and afterward, everyone gathered back at LFA Hall for a four-meat buffet dinner. Non-golfers were also welcome to join the dinner for $40 per person.
We also celebrated Oktoberfest on October 17.
Upcoming District Events
Events may be subject to change.
Friday, November 7, 6 PM – Euchre Party
Friday, December 12 – Annual Christmas Party and Raffle Saturday, December 13, 12 PM – Children’s Christmas Party with Exotic Animals and Visit from Santa Reminders
LWML is collecting canceled postage stamps for its Stamps for Mission Program. Simply cut off the canceled stamp from the envelope and bring it to the next function, and we will see that it gets to the LWML.
If any members have any suggestions or ideas for events that they would like GBU Life or District 1000 to consider, please let us know! We encourage members to become involved and attend events. Contact us at 586-677-2020 and let us know what activities you would like.
Monthly Meetings
A District Officers’ Meeting will be held on December (Date TBD) at 6:30 PM via Google Meet.
For information regarding life insurance, annuities such as IRAs, Roth IRAs, etc., please call 586-677-2020 and your agent or a representative servicing your area will contact you.
“Christian Volunteering Is Contagious.”
- Stacia (Penzien) Zarzycki, Sentinel and The Reporter Correspondent 586-677-2020 or smpenzien@yahoo.com
District 2000 — United Lutheran Society (ULS) District Scholarships Awarded
This year, District 2000 awarded eight scholarships totaling $6,000, as each student received a $750 grant towards their tuition costs. Congratulations to the following scholarship recipients: Aida Castelli , Rob Gorman , Kate Kalmanowicz , Lilly Kulaga , Christopher Nemecek , Caelen Plummer, Addison Vandegriff and Zach Zornan Ferguson . District Scholarship applications will once again be available next year on Thursday, January 1, 2026
Assembly 2A in Hazleton, PA, held a social hour after church services with a patriotic theme, with snacks and coffee provided. They enjoyed good food and fellowship.
Assembly Activities
Assembly 9 Members Sandy Spann, Sue Bobby, Jim Slough, Deb Voldrich and Bob Priovarchy helped set up the rummage sale at
Rosanne
Rev. Marjorie Keiter, Autumn Sagan, Ivy Wilko, Emil Straka, Alice Hoffman and Holly Ciotola
District 2000 — ULS, Continued
Dr. Martin Lutheran Church in Cleveland, OH, to raise funds for the roof renovation project at the church.
Assembly 9 members helped set up a rummage sale to support Dr. Martin Lutheran Church’s roof renovation.
The rummage sale received $500 from District 2000 under the Sharing Funds program. Assembly 9 President Debbie Voldrich presents this check to Vice President Steve Anderson , Treasurer Sue Bobby and Pastor Eric Markowich of Dr. Martin Lutheran Church.
Assembly 9 presented a $500 Sharing Funds check to Dr. Martin Lutheran Church.
Assembly 9 held a social hour at Dr. Martin Lutheran Church with the following in attendance:
Alice Hoffman from Assembly 2A in Hazleton, PA, was our 2nd Quarter Assembly Drawing Winner and received a $100 cash prize. Alice became eligible for this unexpected windfall by participating in her local assembly activities. You could be our next winner by attending your assembly’s next function!
Life Insurance, Annuities, IRAs, Fraternal Benefits
Check out the GBU Life website at gbu.org for more information on their valuable financial products and fraternal benefits.
‘Til next time!
- Jerry A. Hauser, Treasurer and The Reporter Correspondent 724-953-8287 or jdhauser1@comcast.net
District 3000 — Hungarian Reformed Federation of America
As part of my ongoing spotlight on District 3000 leaders, I had the privilege of interviewing our Cultural Correspondent, Rev. Joe Vasarhelyi. Having watched him take on increasingly challenging roles with grace and adaptability, I wanted to learn more about his personal journey and how his involvement in GBU Life has shaped his life. Here are a few of my questions and his responses.
Leslie: How did you become a member of GBU Life District 3000-HRFA?
Joe: My connection to GBU Life started in the Hungarian Reformed Federation of America (HRFA), and it began the day I was born, when I was enrolled in a life insurance policy written by our late Pastor, Rev. Imre. That early act of foresight planted seeds that would grow into a lifelong relationship with a legacy organization that has meant a great deal to me.
Leslie: When did you become actively involved with GBU Life?
Joe: In 2016, I became more actively involved in District 3000, a step that marked a new chapter in my service. You, Rev. Les Martin , played a pivotal role in encouraging and guiding me toward greater involvement with GBU Life, helping me see not only the value of the organization, but the impact I could have through it. Your support and leadership were instrumental in that transition.
Leslie: Thank you for your kind words, Joe ! You were already a member of HRFA when we merged with GBU Life in December of 2011. How do you remember that transition, and what are your thoughts about it now?
Joe: When GBU Life and HRFA merged, it seemed to me that GBU Life brought its mission, and we were suddenly under a broader umbrella of a growing and generous organization. The transition was more than just administrative, it was a continuation of legacy, now expanded through GBU Life’s broader reach and deep commitment to service. What has stood out most about GBU Life is how charitable and communityminded GBU Life is. The organization carries forward the spirit of HRFA compassion and remains committed to helping its members and communities while offering even greater resources and opportunities. I’m incredibly grateful to be a part of GBU Life.
Leslie: Joe, I know you are an ordained minister of Word and Sacrament. And I know that you have served in different places as a pastor, and more recently as a chaplain. Can you share how your life journey has taken you, not only to serve GBU Life in our fraternal community, but at the same time, also serving in our faith community?
Joe: Over the years, God has led me through a range of ministry experiences. I’ve pastored a church in Ohio, where I had the joy of shepherding and preaching, and served as a hospice chaplain in Florida, offering care and presence to individuals and families in their most sacred moments. Today, I serve as the Director of Family Ministries at Christ Reformed Church at Indian
Standing (from left): Sandy Spann, Sharon Tobik, Deb Voldrich and Vlad Nemecek. Seated: Treasurer Sherri Bures
District 3000 — HRFA, Continued
Creek in Pennsylvania, where I have the privilege of helping families grow together in faith and discipleship. It’s a role that brings together my pastoral heart and my deep appreciation for multi-generational ministry. Through it all, HRFA and now GBU Life have remained a steady presence, not just in policy or paperwork, but as a symbol of rooted legacy, community strength and a commitment to service.
Leslie: Thank you, Rev. Joe , for your thoughts and opinions regarding our journey together. You have shown that we can do more together and enjoy our family/community connections while working for a better life for all of us.
Here is Rev. Joe with his wife Amber and their two children.
Rev. Joe Vasarhelyi with his wife, Amber and their two children.
- Rev. Leslie E. Martin, District 3000 Past President
District 4000 — Sokol USA
It’s been a long, hot and busy summer for our GBU Life and Sokol members this year. Fall will continue to be busy with many additional activities. But first, a shout-out to several events that occurred after the May 1 deadline for the spring issue of The Reporter. The 2025 District Forum in Ohio was a terrific experience from start to finish. The speakers were knowledgeable and timely with their presentations. The roundtable discussion among the districts was excellent for sharing ideas, challenges and ways to engage members. I was honored to accept the 2024 District Award for Charitable Giving for Sokol USA.
Next, June followed with two large-scale sports events: the first taking place in Poland on June 19 through June 22. This was their first Polish National Slet in 15 years. Our president, Brother Bielecki , attended the event and is pictured with Sokol Poland President Damian Malecki , who is also President of the World Sokol Federation. This was followed by the American Sokol Slet in Chicago, where you can see some of our members at the ASO Slet pictured below. Over 50 members joined with fellow ASOs and Czech Sokols for the first US Slet since the pandemic. The ASO Instructor School followed immediately after and was hosted by our Lodge 306 of Chicago, pictured below, which included coaches and participants from our district.
In June, members participated in the Polish National Slet and the American Sokol Slet in Chicago.
On August 23, the Nationality Rooms at the University of Pittsburgh celebrated the 100th anniversary of their establishment. Both Sokol USA and GBU Life were instrumental in establishing the Czechoslovakia and German rooms, respectively. We celebrated with a birthday party featuring cake, drinks and free tours of the rooms. Many members of MCT’s group, including Lodges Braddock, Blairsville, Leechburg, New Kensington and Pittsburgh, were in attendance.
In September, fall gym classes restarted at Chicago and Farrell lodges. The Bowling League began at Bethlehem and Palmerton. Lodge meetings that were paused in the summer months resumed. Leechburg Lodge, as community outreach, provided meals to the high school football team before the games. The National Board held its semi-annual meeting at Leechburg this October. Leechburg also hosted a Halloween party on Saturday of that same weekend. Also in October, the GBU Life Zoo Boo took place, which was a fun-filled time based on how nice the previous zoo events had been.
In November, Chicago 306 is hosting a Mini-Meet with the ASO. Danbury Lodge will also host several charitable and veteranrelated events, some of which will run through December. On Veterans Day, Leechburg Lodge will offer a free meal to all veterans.
Finally, as we are preparing to transition from summer heat to the chill of Fall, I’d like to offer one safety reminder. Our children
At the 2025 District Forum in Ohio, we accepted the 2024 District Award for Charitable Giving for Sokol USA.
District 4000 — Sokol USA, Continued will be back in school, and the amount of daylight when traveling back and forth will not be as bright. So, let’s all remember to slow down and keep an eye out for our kids and others who are on our streets and intersections.
Upcoming District Events
Sunday, October 19 – GBU Life Zoo Boo
Friday & Saturday, October 24–25 – National Board Meeting in Leechburg
Saturday, October 25 – Halloween Party in Leechburg
Saturday, November 1 – Red Cross Blood Drive in Danbury
Tuesday, November 11 – Veterans Day & Bridge Renaming in Danbury
Tuesday, November 11 – Veterans’ Dinner in Leechburg
Sunday, November 23 – Food Drive in Danbury
Monday, December 1 – Winter Session begins in Chicago
Respectfully submitted,
- Nancy Hughes-Shurina, Chair of Fraternal Activities 724-261-6377 or fna240@verizon.net
Please check with one of the officers of the district to confirm whether or not an event is canceled.
699 (MI) District Meeting at Don Felipe’s 19 Home Office GBU Life Zoo
4000 (PA) National Board Meeting in Leechburg
821 (MI) GACC Halloween Family Party 25 4000 (PA) National Board Meeting in Leechburg
4000 (PA) Halloween Party in Leechburg
NOVEMBER
1000 (MI) Euchre Party
701 (MI) DASV Park Cleanup
815 (OH) Hospice Remembrance Walk 8 815 (OH) Liederkranz – St. Martin’s Walk
45 (PA) Pie Sale Orders Due
(PA) Veterans’ Day Parade in Altoona
4000 (PA) Veterans’ Day & Bridge Renaming in Danbury
4000 (PA) Veterans’ Dinner in Leechburg
821 (MI) Volkstrauertag in Battle Creek
45 (PA) Pie Delivery (Friday)
45 (PA) Pie Pickup (Saturday)
821 (MI) GBU Life Fall Concert at GACC
4000 (PA) Food Drive in Danbury
684 (PA) Brunch with Santa at South Hills Country Club
DECEMBER
4000 (IL) Winter Session begins in Chicago
821 (MI) Singing at Waltenwood, Lakeside
821 (MI) GACC Christmas Party 8 701 (MI) DASV Park Cleanup 12 1000 (MI) Annual Christmas Party and Raffle
821 (MI) GBU Life Christmas Party at GACC
821 (MI) SMC Christmas Concert 13 1000 (MI) Children’s Christmas Party with Exotic Animals and Santa 14 821 (MI) GBU Life Sings at Historic Trinity
JANUARY 1 2000 (PA) District Scholarship Applications Available
701 (MI) DASV Park Cleanup
SMILE
Community Mosaic Project
THE GBU FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIPS & GRANTS
GBU Life established the GBU Foundation in 1963 to offer academic scholarships to its members. Through 2025, the GBU Foundation has awarded over 4,400 scholarships totaling almost $3,200,000 to members attending two-year, four-year and graduate programs.
Visit gbufoundation.awardspring.com for the latest information about GBU Foundation scholarships.
GBU Foundation Scholarships
Four-Year Scholarships (4 years)
For eligible GBU Life members entering four-year programs leading to a bachelor’s degree.
$1,500 per year, renewable for up to three years.
Bert Waltenberger Memorial Scholarship. Applicants must be involved in German-related programs and sports activities to be selected to receive this award.
$1,500 per year, renewable for up to three years.
Clarence O. Affelt Architecture/Fine Art Memorial Scholarship. Applicants must have a declared major in architecture or fine arts to be considered for this award.
$1,000 first year with $500/year renewal for up to three additional years.
Two-Year Scholarships (2 years)
For eligible GBU Life members entering or enrolled in degree, certificate or trade programs up to two years in duration, offered by vocational/technical schools, nursing schools, community colleges and similar institutions.
$1,000 per year, renewable for up to one additional year.
Undergraduate Scholarships (3 years)
For eligible GBU Life members in college programs leading to a bachelor’s degree.
$1,000 per year, renewable for up to two years.
Graduate Scholarships (2 years)
For eligible GBU Life members entering or enrolled in college graduate degree programs leading to advanced degrees.
$1,000 per year, renewable for up to one additional year.
GBU Foundation Grant Awards
All eligible applicants who did not receive a GBU Foundation Scholarship are entered in a random drawing in which a predetermined number of one-time $500 -$1,000 GBU Foundation grants are given.
Scholarships Offered to GBU Life District Members
Fritz Bertz Scholarships (District 510 — Toledo, OH).
District 45 — Altoona, PA, Grant.
District 146 — Johnstown, PA, Scholarship.
District 291 — Summerhill-Lilly, PA, Scholarships.
District 510 — Toledo, OH, Scholarships.
District 684 — Jackie Alaimo Memorial Grants.
District 707 — Grand Rapids, MI, Scholarships.
District 815 — Dayton, OH, Educational Grants.
District 1000 — LFA Scholarships.
District 2000 — ULS Scholarships.
District 3000 — HRFA Scholarships.
District 4000 — Sokol USA Milan Getting Scholarships.
District 5000 — Independent Order of Vikings (IOV) Grand Lodge Scholarships.
GBU
Life District 5000 — IOV Grand Lodge Scholarships
For eligible District 5000 — IOV high school senior members who have received confirmation of acceptance from an institute of higher learning. Must hold either a Junior or Senior membership in the IOV for at least six months prior to the date of application.
$1,750 non-renewable scholarship Application Period: December 1, 2025 — March 1, 2026
High School Freshman Grants
The GBU Life High School Freshman Grant Program is designed to assist eighth-grade GBU Life members with associated costs in their transition into the high school curriculum. High School Freshman Grants of $250 are to be used for expenses necessary for the student’s educational needs. For more information, please contact the Community Engagement Team at memberbenefits@gbu.org or 800-765-4428
Reader Service Form
To obtain information on GBU products or member benefits, please check items of interest listed below. Please note that we do not have brochures for all member benefits. You may be redirected to our website to access some member benefit information. To make a charitable donation, please fill in the appropriate portion of this form.
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