The Reporter Summer 2023

PRESENTS

GBU AT GBU AT THE ZOO! THE ZOO!

EXPERIENCE A TRUE EXPERIENCE A TRUE WILDLIFE ADVENTURE! WILDLIFE ADVENTURE!

PITTSBURGH ZOO & AQUARIUM

SUNDAY

JULY 16, 2023

TICKET INCLUDES

Access to all exhibits in the Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium

A catered lunch with access to alcoholic beverages for those over 21

A drink-all-day wristband that gets you unlimited access to non-alcoholic drinks during your stay

Exclusive, all-day access to the GBU Family Entertainment Tent

A chance to spin the GBU Life prize wheel

(everyone walks away with a free GBU Life gift)

Free digital family photos to remember your day

DETROIT ZOO

SATURDAY

JULY 22, 2023

TICKET INCLUDES

Access to all exhibits in the Detroit Zoo Parking pass

A catered meal and beverage service from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Exclusive, all-day access to the GBU Family Entertainment Tent

A chance to spin the GBU Life prize wheel (everyone walks away with a free GBU Life gift)

Reporter The is the official publication of

4254 Saw Mill Run Boulevard

Pittsburgh, PA 15227-3394

T: 412-884-5100 or 800-765-4428

E: communications@gbu.org

W: gbu.org

Editor: Jennifer Stockdale

Production Editor: Nancy Kurutz

Assistant Production Editor: Timothy Rodman

Art Director: Rachel Cummins

Design and Layout: Steve Guidas

Contributing Writers: Anna Meek, Jennifer Stockdale, Rachel Cummins, Natasha Herleman, Mary Koczan, Steve Guidas, Ken Elliott, Bob Schoeppner, Laqueeta Coleman, Timothy Rodman and Karen Ferguson.

Chief Executive Officer William W. Hunt

Sr. VP/Chief Marketing Officer Lesley B. Mann

Sr. VP of Operations Deborah Morgan

Sr. VP/Chief Financial Officer Mark Cloutier

Chairman of the Board Lea Ann Hazi

David E. Bevins

Joseph S. Bielecki

Donna L. Brophy, FICF

William W. Hunt, CEO

Christina MacKellar, CPCU, CIC

David L. Pringle

John B. Schmotzer

To receive The Reporter digitally and discontinue receiving it by mail, send an email to memberbenefits@gbu.org. In the subject line, type “I Want to Go Green.” Provide your name, email address and mailing address in the body of the email. We will notify you by email when the new issue appears online. Please be advised that you will receive a paper issue by mail when we are required by law to deliver any notice, report or statement, including any notice of election and all amendments to the Articles of Incorporation or bylaws of GBU.

GBU personnel, members, districts and others may take pictures or make recordings at GBU events. In an effort to promote activities and increase public awareness, these may be published in The Reporter, on GBU and district websites, in the GBU Life Member Community, social media outlets and other locations. By participating in GBU events, all members and other parties consent to the release and use of these pictures or recordings and waive any rights to royalties or any potential liability relating to the pictures or recordings.

Monday–Friday: 8 AM–5 PM

Saturday and Sunday: Closed

2022 Financial Update

In 2022, GBU Life (GBU) was able to enhance its finance capabilities with an eye toward both the present and the future in an increasingly complex economic environment. We continue to build on our core strategies that have enabled GBU to maintain its strong financial position and provide the security that our members deserve.

GBU exceeded $500 million in premiums for the first time in 2022. This is a great accomplishment; however, it comes with the obligation to comply with two additional regulations.

The first of these regulations is called Own Risk and Solvency Assessment (ORSA). An ORSA is an internal process undertaken by an insurer to assess the adequacy of its risk management in addition to its current and prospective solvency positions under normal and severe stress scenarios. An ORSA will require us to analyze all reasonably foreseeable and relevant material risks (i.e., underwriting, credit, market, operational, liquidity risks, etc.) that could have an impact on our ability to meet our member obligations. This requirement must be done annually beginning in 2023.

The second regulation, Section 16 of the Model Audit Rule, requires management to file a report on our internal controls over financial reporting. This regulation is similar in nature to the Sarbanes-Oxley regulations required of publicly owned corporations. The required report will need to be filed annually with the first filing due in conjunction with the filing of 2024 audited financial statements.

GBU is well positioned to comply with these regulations. We added a director of enterprise risk management to our finance team in 2022 in anticipation of the need to comply with these regulations. The work required to comply with these regulations is well underway and will further enhance our ability to foresee, understand and mitigate the risks that are inherent in the insurance industry. The end result of GBU’s compliance with these new regulations is to take the overall strength of our society to a higher level.

Omitted for Rounding)

Capital and Surplus Account

Mark Cloutier Chief Financial Officer

About the numbers

GBU’s 2022 statutory financial results continue to reflect our strong operating performance and the ability to build on our strong financial position. Assets increased 11.2% to $4.2 billion, while our liabilities increased similarly 11.4% to $3.9 billion. Reserves for annuity contracts made up $3.6 billion of the liabilities supported by investment in bonds of $4.0 billion. Our surplus remained very strong at $288.8 million, an increase of 8.5%. GBU’s current solvency ratio is 107.4%. This means for every $100 of liabilities, there is $107.40 of assets.

Net income from operations for 2022 was $32.5 million, which was $6.1 million higher than for 2021. Total revenues for the year were $768.1 million, an increase of $120.4 million over the 2021 figure; this increase was driven by strong annuity sales. GBU continues to have an exceptional cash flow from operations. For 2022, cash flow from operations was $426.1 million, an increase over the 2021 total, which was $349.9 million.

As we move into the future, GBU management will continue to prudently grow our society and expand the programs available to our members for their community development efforts while strengthening our already solid foundation. We are proud to deliver sound, consistent value as a conservative steward of our members’ wealth during these turbulent economic times. We thank you for your trust.

DEVELOP YOUR FINANCIAL PLAN

DEVELOP YOUR FINANCIAL PLAN

Customer Service Corner

Did you know that GBU can accept online bill payments made through your bank? This is an efficient way to transmit payments/deposits into your GBU account.

Check with your bank to see if it offers this feature. It is usually free, is typically available at all hours and can be accessed from your bank’s website or mobile app. This is a convenient approach to managing funds you direct to GBU Financial Life. Here are some of the many benefits to using your bank’s online bill pay feature.

Online Bill Pay Is Better for the Environment

One of the biggest benefits of paying bills online is eliminating paper waste. Paying your bills online reduces the number of of paper checks being mailed. Online bill pay also eliminates the costs of postage and envelopes.

Bill Pay Is Secure

Bill paying through your bank is much safer than mailing a check and greatly reduces the risk of identity theft. Established banks use top-tier security protocols to keep your transactions secure.

Online Bill Pay Is Convenient

You probably already pay other bills online through your bank. Simply add GBU to the list of online payments. Many banks have an option of pre-scheduling payments on their due date or another day of your choosing. After scheduling a payment, the banking institution will either send your payment to us electronically or send us a secure paper check.

Bill Pay Saves You Time

Once you have the electronic bill payment service set up in online or mobile banking, it takes just minutes to pay your bills. If you use the automatic bill pay feature, you’ll save even more time. When you sign up, be sure to include your GBU policy number, so we apply the funds to the correct account. Also, online bill pay typically speeds up the time for the payment to be posted to your policy.

If your bank does not offer online bill payments, you still have options for sending your money securely to GBU. With our bank draft authorization, you can request that GBU withdraw your payment from your checking or savings account on the day of your choosing. You can locate the Bank Draft Authorization Form at inside.gbu.org/forms

LIFE INSURANCE LIFE INSURANCE FACTS FACTS

to keep in your back pocket

69%

Sixty-nine percent of life insurance owners say they feel financially secure compared to 49 percent of nonowners.

People say money is the top reason for not getting life insurance, but more than half overestimate its cost by 3x or more.

Half of Millennials and Gen Z adults say they need life insurance —or more of it.

Twenty-three percent of consumers say they haven't purchased life insurance because they are unsure of how much to buy or what type to get.

23%

Source: 2023 Insurance Barometer Study, Life Happens and LIMRA

THE WHYS OF RECENT U.S. BANK FAILURES

By Frank DiLeo GBU Life Investment Portfolio Manager

There’s a saying that, "being a banker is like being a pilot of an aircraft—it's years of boredom and seconds of terror." It seems that every few years, the often-quiet banking sector encounters troubles, either self-inflicted or from economic stresses that upend the business model. Between 2007 and 2008, banks experienced their greatest stress since the Great Depression. With bank lending in the real estate sector at the forefront of the collapse, regulators took noted potential flaws in the overall banking model. Lending practices had become too lax, and reserve requirements were not monitored to the extent they needed to be given the exponential growth that had led up to collapse.

After 2008 the government put in place a series of protocols to oversee the banking sector and set new standards for capital requirements. Banks are required to “stress test” periodically to ensure that the worst-case scenario would not compromise the system's integrity. However, even with these regulations, 2023 still managed to bring headlines of multiple banks seeming to “fail.” Of the three largest bank failures in history, two occurred this year, despite these new regula tions. To understand why the sector remains challenged, we will dig into some pitfalls of the U.S. banking model and the potential risks they present to an individual investor.

Why Do Banks Fail?

Before we delve into why banks fail, we have to touch on two topics. The first is the “fractional banking system.” Regulators require that only a small portion of investor deposits to be available for customer wi thdrawals. The reasoning is that it is highly unlikely that a significant portion of customers will ask for a return on their deposits at the same time. The balance, after the fractional reserve is put aside, is invested in the markets as either incomegenerating assets on the books (i.e., bonds) or loans to clients of the bank.

The second topic is the “regional banking model” which is unique to the U.S. banking system. Most countries operate with a handful of “money center” banks, which are global and have a certain level of government oversight. The relatively small number allows for easier, more streamlined reviews. Missteps are often found quickly, and actions by governments can be implemented far more easily given how few pa rticipants exist. This scenario was proven this year, when the Swiss government swiftly orchestrated a merger of UBS Bank (UBS) and Credit Suisse (CS), when the latter incurred losses that caused it to almost collapse.

Currently, more than 4,800 banks operate in the US, usually in geographic regions. This model allows for banks in the US to cater to their clients better, focusing on the needs of the regi on and those customers they lend to. For example, banks in Texas tend to have more exposure to oil and gas, while banks on the West Coast have more exposure to technology and real estate. Although in theory the model works, it leaves many of these institutions uniquely susceptible to the ebbs and flows of the economies in which they operate. It is not uncommon to see a regional bank thrive, while one in a different region struggles. This factor, and the

simple fact that so many more banks operate in the US, is why inevitably some will run into trouble over time.

The simple answer to why banks fail is insolvency. Essentially, their obligations to their depositors cannot be fulfilled with the assets the banks have on their books. The reasons that can happen are too many to list, but we c an focus on a few. In 2008, banks incurred steep losses from making loans to customers who could not fulfill their obligation to repay their loans. In a perfect storm of chaos, these loans were packaged and sold to other institutions, which took similar losses, creating a scramble for liquidity in multiple markets. Insurance companies and pension funds, which would otherwise rely on bank funding to fina nce their losses, had nowhere to turn.

Although the 2008 crisis is regarded as far more significant than the 2023 crisis, only one meaningful bank, Washington Mutual (WAMU), failed during that time. In 2008, WAMU lost $17 billion in investor deposits in nine days. Silicon Valley Bank (SVB), which failed in 2023, lost $42 billion in deposits in just four hours. The speed at which money can move with technol ogy is now a significant concern for regulators which want to stem the hemorrhaging outflows of troubled banks. In the case of SVB, the best solution was for the government to take over

the bank and to freeze investor withdrawals so they could sort out the damage before the deposits were completely depleted. The recent troubles in the banking sector stem from a much different phenomenon and are magnified by technology and social media platforms that spread news in real time. Unlike the “bad loans” of 2008, the recent rate hikes by the Federal Reserve (Fed) Bank have greatly devalued ma ny of the investments that banks made in the years leading up to this rise. Many see this as an unintended consequence of the Fed tightening the economy to slow inflation. We often talk about “time value of money” and how the ability to borrow short and invest long is the driving principle for a bank to profit. What we are seeing now is that many banks have these long-dated “held-to-maturity” investments they own, losing significant value in a rising rate economy. Their depositors, who have caught wind of their unrealized losses, are quickly withdrawing their funds, fearing an inability to recover them, causing a proverbial “run for the nearest exits." Once confidence is lost in an institution, it becomes extremely difficult to "plug the hole." A bank losing deposits is akin to a ship taking on water. It will eventually sink under the weight of its creditors (depositors).

Is My Money Safe?

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) is the primary backstop for all U.S. banking deposits. The FDIC insures up to $250k of funds deposited in a bank. Although this insurance is explicit, the Treasury secretary has implicitly backstopped the deposits of all banks as a temporary measure to avoid further withdrawals at smaller, less capitalized institutions. The rhetoric implies that deposits of more than $250k will also have the support (not guarantee) of the U.S. government for the time being. As we mentioned previously, regulations have been put in place to monitor the “health” of banks in the US, and, for the most part, until recently, bank failures have been well contained. Banks are offered the support of the Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB), often regarded as the “bank of banks.” Qualified financial institutions (including GBU Life) are offered the lending capacity of FHLB, which allows them to borrow cash in exchange for the assets they hold on their books. The government can make changes to the rules here, allowing these institutions to borrow mor e or less at higher or lower rates, as they see fit. Because of the recent concerns, FHLB has greatly relaxed lending requirements, allowing borrowing of 100% of the value of all government securities, although they are priced lower.

FHLB liquidity programs alone should make every bank in the U.S. temporarily solvent, as for all intents and purposes, the U.S. government is willing to loan unlimited fund s in the short term to cover withdrawals. What the government will do in the long term remains to be seen, but most analysts believe banks will be subject to more regulation and scrutiny going forward. Much like the 2008 financial crisis, lessons will be learned and built upon to ensure that the system functions properly.

Will More Banks Fail?

The answer is, without question, yes. Even during the best eco nomic conditions, small regional banks have failed without any headlines. We mentioned that regional banks will always incur problems, whether lending to an industry that is struggling or to a demographic that is under economic pressure (e.g., employees in tech). The U.S. government has an

excellent history of protecting depositor assets. Any breach of customer asset coverage would undermine the banking sector, and the government has proven that it will take any steps necessary to avoid that. The rules they put in place are working, as the contagion of bank problems seems contained to only a handful of smaller regional banks. In addition, we have seen several cases in which government assis tance prevented further contagion.

The current overall reserves in the banking system total about $55.5 billion, a staggering amount, and the case can be made that U.S. banks overall are better capitalized now than ever. As stated, aside from the reserves, FHLB continues to monitor lending, essentially backstopping most runs on withdrawals by providing liquidity to the system. In the worst-case scenario o f a failure, as in the cases we have seen recently, the government has multiple options to work with. The government can take over a bank as they did with SVB, eventually selling pieces to other banking institutions. They can also pair it up with a much more stable money center bank, as we saw with J.P. Morgan and First Republic Bank, before the problems become too dire. In either event, depositors are pr ioritized, and the banking industry will continue to move forward, likely with more government oversight and new regulations.

GBU Life is the marketing name for GBU Financial Life. No statement contained herein shall constitute tax, legal or investment advice. You should consult with a legal or tax professional for any such matters.

ENRICH YOUR LIFE

ENRICH YOUR LIFE

How much do you know about travel?

Test your knowledge and answering speed with this season's online game

Monday, July 17-Thursday, August 3, 2023

HERE'S HOW TO PLAY

Log into the GBU Life Member Community at community.gbu.org starting on Monday, July 17, 2023, at 8AM EST, to get the link to the game. Answer the trivia questions about travel facts. You have two minutes to answer as many questions as you can. The faster you answer, the more points you score! Keep an eye on the leaderboard until the end of the game on Thursday, August 3, 2023, at 4PM EST

The top 10 players on the leaderboard at the end of the game win a $20 Amazon gift card, and all players will be entered for a chance to win a $250 Amazon gift card via a random drawing.

Only one entry permitted per GBU member. Amazon gift cards will be awarded digitally via email. See official rules posted on the game site prior to game play.

EASY GRILLING

RECIPES

Summertime

THAT ARE PERFECT FOR

EASY GRILLED CORN WITH CHIPOTLE-LIME BUTTER

INGREDIENTS

8 large ears of sweet corn in husks

½ cup butter, softened

1½ teaspoons grated lime zest

1 teaspoon minced fresh cilantro

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon ground chipotle pepper

TIME

Prep time: 5 minutes + soak time

Total time: 55 minutes

Yield: 8 servings

DIRECTIONS

In a large stockpot, cover corn in husks with cold water. Soak for 30 minutes and then drain.

Grill corn, covered, over medium heat until tender, about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally.

Meanwhile, combine the butter, lime zest, cilantro, salt and pepper into a bowl and mix. Once the corn is done grilling, carefully peel back husks and discard silk. Spread butter mixture over corn.

If desired, sprinkle with coarse sea salt.

GRILLED CHICKEN RANCH BURGERS

INGREDIENTS

¾ cup ranch salad dressing

¾ cup panko bread crumbs

¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese

3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

3 garlic cloves, minced

3 teaspoons pepper

4 pounds ground chicken

3 tablespoons olive oil

16 brioche hamburger buns, split

TIME

Prep time: 15 minutes + chill time

Total time: 40 minutes

Yield: 16 servings

BANANAS FOSTER ON THE GRILL

INGREDIENTS

4 small, ripe bananas, unpeeled

3 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons maple syrup

2 tablespoons hot caramel ice cream

topping

2 cups vanilla ice cream

8 vanilla wafers, crushed

TIME

Prep time: 25 minutes

Total time: 25 minutes

Yield: 4 servings

DIRECTIONS

In a large bowl, mix the salad dressing, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, Worcestershire sauce, garlic cloves and pepper. Add chicken and mix lightly but thoroughly. Shape mixture into sixteen ½"-thick patties. Brush both sides of the patty with oil and refrigerate, covered, for 15 minutes to allow patties to firm up. Grill burgers, covered, over medium heat or broil 3-4" from heat for 5-6 minutes on each side or until a thermometer reads 165°F. Serve on brioche buns with toppings as desired, including a slice of cheese, pickles, tomato slices, lettuce leaves, sliced red onion, sliced cucumber, sliced avocado and ranch dip.

DIRECTIONS

Trim ends and cut unpeeled bananas lengthwise; place on oiled grill rack over medium heat. Grill, covered, until peel is dark brown, about 3-4 minutes on each side. Meanwhile, in a small cast-iron skillet, combine butter, syrup and caramel topping; place on grill rack. Cook, uncovered, over medium heat for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently. Remove from heat. Remove peel from bananas; cut each half crosswise. Place ice cream in dessert dishes; top with bananas. Drizzle with sauce and sprinkle with crushed wafers.

LIVING LIVING

2. AMBIENCE

Creating ambience is an essential part of outdoor living. It’s the subtle glow of the string lights hanging above your outdoor sofa and the warmth coming off the fire pit at your feet. It’s what keeps your night memorable and gives a feeling of coziness to your patio. An outdoor space isn’t complete without a good set of string lights. With the option of different bulb shapes and colors, the possibilities are endless.

If your space can accommodate a firepit, then it’s a must add for your deck or patio. It gives your family and friends a place to gather and creates a focal point for your backyard. Have kids with a sweet tooth? Check out the s’mores fire pit from Target (pictured below) for an easy way to make a sweet treat.

3. COMFORT

One of the best parts of finalizing your outdoor space is selecting your favorite outdoor furniture and accessories. Opt for maximum comfort and don’t be afraid to bring some personality into the pieces you select. There’s no wrong decision if you decide to add a splash of color or keep things neutral with your textiles. For optimal comfort, don’t forget to add a canopy to protect you from mosquitos and other insects while you’re lounging outdoors. Creating a comfortable living space on your deck or patio will only entice you and your family to spend more time outdoors.

Stamped Steel Wicker Propane Fire Pit - Threshold™, $210.00, Target.com

S'mores Basic Fire Pit - Terra Flame, $49.99, Target.com

Outdoor Drop String LightsSmith & Hawken, $28.00, Target.com

Stripe Outdoor Pillow, $64.95, Crate & Barrel

SOLIG Net, $19.99, IKEA.com

Join GBU Life on an epic trek across the seven continents while earning milestones and competition gems along the way. The duration for each challenge (continent you hike) is uniquely based on the average length of time it would take to hike each trail. Complete all seven challenges and receive a $20 Amazon gift card.

Sign up for the first continent challenge in the Optimity Challenge tab on August 1. Not an Optimity user yet? Sign up at inside.gbu.org/optimity.

Europe's Fimmvörðuháls Trail

The Fimmvörðuháls (FIMM-vor-thoo-hauls)

Trail in Iceland spans 15.5 miles (25 km) and takes hikers through stunning landscapes, including lava fields, glaciers, valleys and waterfalls.

Asia's Mount Fuji

Take on the challenge of climbing Japan's highest mountain, Mount Fuji, at 12,389 feet (3,775 m)! Join thousands of hikers each year to witness the stunning sunrise from the summit. Complete the three-day, eight-mile (13 km) trail and earn gems at each milestone, plus a bonus for completing the climb!

South America's Machu Picchu

Take on the famous 27-mile (43 km) Inca Trail to Machu Picchu in South America's Peru. Imagine the stunnin g views of the Andes, archaeological sites and the iconic ruins. Put yourself to the test; complete the eight-day challenge and earn milestones along the way!

North America's Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim trail is a 23.5mile (38 km) trek from the North to South Rim in Arizona. The trail offers breathtaking views of the canyon and requires high fitness levels due to steep terrains and extreme temperatures. If you're ready to take on the conditions of this challenge, give it a go for seven days and earn bonus gems!

Antarctica's Observation Loop Trail

The Observation Hill Loop trail is a scenic, 2.5-mile (4 km) trail loop in Ross Island, Antarctica. Hike to the top of Observation Hill for stunning panoramic views of the area, including Mount Erebus and McMurdo Sound. Try this chilly, one-day challenge and earn bonus gems!

Australia's Thorsborne Trail Africa's Otter Trail

Hinchinbrook Island in Queensland, Australia, is a rugged paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The 18.5-mile (30 km) Thorsborne trail offers breathtaking coastal views, dense rainforests and pristine b eaches. Take on the challenge for six days and earn bonus gems!

The Otter Trail in South Africa is a spectacular, nine-day, 28-mile (45 km) hike along the Garden Route coastline. This challenging trail winds through forests, cliffs and beaches, offering breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean. Take on the Otter Trail and earn bonus gems once you complete the challenge!

Gift cards will be issued to everyone who completed the Summer Trail Challenges Part One once the last challenge (Africa's Otter Trail) wraps up in July.

SUMMER FITNESS FUN IDEAS

CREATE AN OUTDOOR BOOTCAMP WITH YOUR FRIENDS

TAKE A SWING AT PICKLEBALL

PLAY WITH YOUR KIDS OUTSIDE

SIGN UP FOR A 5K

HIKE A TRAIL

JOIN A LOCAL OUTDOOR CYCLING CLUB

WALK YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

TAKE SWIMMING LESSONS

LEARN HOW TO SAIL OR ROW

VISIT YOUR PLAYGROUND

CREATE A FAMILY FITNESS CHALLENGE

5 Calming Facts About Summer

Summertime is here. Now that we’re past the cold weather and on to more aesthetically pleasing blue skies and green grass, here are 5 calming facts about summer to help you feel relaxed.

1. The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Sunburns and various health concerns are always anxiety inducing, especially in the summer months. This fact can provide some peace of mind that, of course, real sun-protecting efforts should be made all-the-time, but especially during this time.

2. The sun produces Vitamin D and serotonin. Sunlight helps your body get Vitamin D. It also gives you a “feel-good” chemical in the brain called serotonin, giving you more reason to incorporate daily outside activity to soak up those rays.

3. Leaves are the greenest in the summer. Who doesn’t like an aesthetically pleasing green? By surrounding yourself with vibrant light and the color of life, you can really put your mind at ease and be inspired with the joy of living.

4. Trees save energy when it gets too hot. When it gets too hot, trees grow slower to conserve energy. Give yourself grace and make sure you also conserve your energy for what matters most, especially in the hot summer months.

5. Acidic drinks help you feel hydrated. When feeling dehydrated, nothing hydrates quite like water. People also love lemonade and citrus-flavored drinks as they make your mouth create more saliva and help you feel hydrated. For strong mental health, however, it’s not only important to feel hydrated, but also to be hydrated.

We hope you enjoy these calming facts about summer. It’s our hope they can help you enjoy the wonders that come with summer. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing “988” or the Crisis Text Line by texting “HOME” to 741741.

Happy summer, friends!

LOVE YOUR GBU MEMBERSHIP?

Refer

GBU WANTS MORE MEMBERS LIKE YOU

Limit of 10 referrals per member per year*

You may claim a reward for non-GBU members in your own household Rewards apply to new insurance or annuity members who join from July 1, 2021, or later

New insurance or annuity members must be registered to referring member via inside.gbu.org/referral

To create your referral, go to inside.gbu.org/referral to get started. We will contact your referrals and identify the best GBU membership solution to meet their needs.

*If you have more than 10 new members to refer, please email sales@gbu.org for additional approval.

Interesting topics to enhance your life

Current Interest

JUST FOR KIDS

JUST FOR KIDS

How to Build an EPIC SANDCASTLE EPIC SANDCASTLE

TOOL LIST

Shovel or spade

Large bucket

Spatula

Paintbrush

11

Make a giant mountain of sand. Find a level spot near the water but not close enough that the tide will wash it away. Use your shovel or spade to move the sand into a giant heap.

2 2 3 3 4 4 5 5

Add water. In order to build a strong sandcastle, the sand must have a cementlike texture. Turn your mountain into a volcano by digging a hole at the very top and pouring water into the hole. The water will seep down into the structure.

Pack it tight. Once the water has seeped down through the structure, press the structure to pack it tight. Level off the top so the structure looks like a flat base.

Start adding towers. Take a wet scoop of sand and add it to your flat base. Shape the tower structure with your hands and pack it tightly. Repeat for more towers.

Shape, perfect and decorate. Once you are done creating the shape of the actual structure, start ironing out the details. Use a spatula to imprint the sand with the look of rooflines. Smooth out all edges and add pretty seashells or even some seaweed to give a nautical look to your castle.

DEEP SEA WORD SEARCH DEEP SEA WORD SEARCH

Can you find the 19 sea creatures below? They can be found left to right, right to left, top to bottom, bottom to top and on the diagonal. Happy deep sea searching!

FRATERNAL PUZZLE FOR MEMBERS AGES 10-14. Email contest@gbu.org or mail (GBU Fraternal Department, 4254 Saw Mill Run Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15227-3394) the participant's name, email address and answers to this fraternal puzzle for a chance to win a $25 Amazon gift card. Members must provide a valid email address as the gift cards are sent via email.

Jody Shapiro is a Forest Hills, Pennsylvania, native and owner of Aspire Enterprises and AspireToFind art. She turns colorful computer creations, images of her dogs and black-and-gold Yinzer sayings into shirts, mugs and other useful items! Jody and her husband, Joel Bloom, are the co-authors of the book Images of America Series: Forest Hills. She and Joel live in Forest Hills with their long-haired, mini dachshund (and social media influencer @CodyBearTheDachshund), AKA Cody Jody has been creating word puzzles for children since the mid-1980s. She has been a GBU member since the late 2000s. aspiretofindasolution.com/news-notes

Abalone Blue Crab Clam

King Crab Limpet Lobster

Oyster Quahog Queen Conch

Conch Eel Fish

Sand Dollar Sea Turtle Shark

Shrimp Starfish Whale

Whelk

CANOE RENTALS

Near a body of water? Check out VIP Perks! by Entertainment® for a lower price on your next canoe rental.

MINI GOLF

Enjoy evenings outside playing miniature golf. Remember to search VIP Perks! by Entertainment® for promotions on your favorite putt-putt spots.

KIDS' KIDS' GUIDE GUIDE SUMMER SUMMER

with VIP Perks! by Entertainment®

AMUSEMENT + WATER PARKS

Yes, you read that right. VIP Perks! by Entertainment® has discounts on amusement and water parks. For example, Kings Island and Soak City Water Park is 50% off!

MUSEUMS

Cool down on hot summer days with a trip to the museum. VIP Perks! by Entertainment® has deals on local museums, including Buy One Get One (BOGO) offers and more!

With VIP Perks! by Entertainment®, GBU members enjoy local and national discounts on dining, entertainment and services. You can print coupons from home or simply redeem them from the mobile app!

Deep discounts, up to 50% off and BOGO.

National, regional and local discounts.

Best-in-class offers, up to 50% off, on things you do every day. Save on dining, attractions, activities, shopping, services, travel and more!

Save locally and when you travel. Offers from VIP Perks! by Entertainment® are available in 10,000+ US and Canadian cities. This GBU member benefit is provided at no charge for both insured and social members, but you do need to opt in to receive access to the site.

Log into the GBU Life Member Community at community.gbu.org or visit inside.gbu.org/vip-perks to get started.

Are New Balances the new Nike Air Forces?

Spotted on many celebrities and influencers, the classic "dad" shoe might just be the next "must have" shoe.

What new fashion trends to look for this upcoming semester.

"Streetwear" has become a popular term over recent years. It is used to describe everyday, "higher end" or edge style. For this upcoming fall, streetwear seems to be taking a turn to a more business-inspired look. Recent runways show trousers and slouchy button-ups being the next style inspiration.

Outerwear will continue to be a fall and winter "must have" statement piece. Seen in the recent designer fall 2023 lines from Gucci , Fendi , Burberry and more, bold outerwear will continue to shine these upcoming seasons.

IMAGE SOURCE TEEN VOGUE

IMAGE SOURCE CDND.LYSTIT

IMAGE SOURCE ELLE™ MAGAZINE Courtesy of Victor Virgile

IMAGE SOURCE W MAGAZINE Courtesy of Tory Burch

IMAGE SOURCE W MAGAZINE Far Left Courtesy of Burberry Middle Courtesy of Gucci Far Right Courtesy of Fendi

How to MAKE FRIENDS WHEN YOU’RE NEW

by Timothy Rodman, CPMM

We’ve all been there. Being the new kid or even working the first day at a new job. While it may seem like everyone else is on Season 5 of a TV show and you’re a new character, here are a few ways to help you quickly adapt and appeal to everyone’s good nature.

Five ways to make friends when you’re new:

1.

2.

Be kind. Kindness is never short in demand. A little bit of grace goes a long way, especially from the new person.

Be receptive. Being new has its challenges. You may receive projects you’re not thrilled about. Receive assignments, asks and feedback well, and be mindful that your coworkers (or classmates) made it this far before you joined them. Always be ready to learn.

3. Listen. We all have things we want to say, but for the first few weeks of being new, it’s okay if you’re not leading the conversation. Be present and engaging, but also listen. Listening is a sure-fire way to get to know your colleagues and peers and how they like to communicate.

4. Be eager. Along the lines of being receptive, show up enthusiastically for every ask (within reason). This helps show your colleagues and peers that you’re here to help.

5. Be present. In the example of starting new at a company, you know the team is going to head out for team lunches as a group. You can’t make a good first impression if you’re keeping to yourself. Get out, explore and learn about your new colleagues.

No one likes being the new kid, but it’s our hope that these hints help lessen this embarrassing time.

Did you know that some teachers have to pay for their own school supplies? The Pittsburgh-based non-profit Education Partnership helps to put school supplies in the hands of those who need them. Learn how you can support The Education Partnership at theeducationpartnership.org

Music to study by

Scan to listen to the playlist on Spotify!

by Timtmmusic (a.k.a., Timothy Rodman, CPMM)

Whether it’s spinning the latest single by Coldplay on vinyl or hearing a collaboration between Calvin Harris and Ellie Goulding on a “New Music Friday” on Spotify, music is a form of escapism for many who enjoy it. But there is a lot of noise coming through our AirPods that can take us away from the daily responsibilities of our lives.

As a musician, I experience this daily. I simply cannot concentrate with certain music playing. My focus goes from working to following the heartbeat of the drum, the funky grooves of the rhythm section (bass and drums) and the deeper interconnections between myself and the vocalist sharing their poetry. I sought to find music that encourages conversations and does not distract from tasks like cramming for an exam.

According to brainresearch.us, music at 60 beats per minute (bpm) is the best for focusing and retaining new information. Research suggests it stimulates learning and induces a state of relaxation where the mind is calm but alert.

Here is a playlist GBU and I sponsored that features popular artists’ songs around the 60bpm mark: “Top 20 Songs to Study By.”

I hope you enjoy!

Timtmmusic is an electro-pop artist from Pittsburgh, PA. Reviewers call Timtmmusic “a vibrant blend of ‘80s new wave and synth pop with a gothic nature to it.” Active since 2011, Timtmmusic has written and released dozens of songs, citing artists like Depeche Mode, Pet Shop Boys, Breathe Carolina and CHVRCHES as inspiration. Listen to Timtmmusic on Spotify and other streaming platforms everywhere.

I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing*

Aerosmith

© 1975, 1978, 1998 Sony Music Entertainment Inc., 1994, 1998 Sony Music Entertainment (Canada) Inc.

Sail* AWOLNATION

© 2011 Red Bull Records, Inc.

I Gotta Feeling*

Black Eyed Peas

© 2009 Interscope

Because You Loved Me*

Céline Dion

© 1996 Sony Music Entertainment Canada Inc.

True Love*

Coldplay

© 2014 Parlophone Records Limited, a Warner Music Group Company

Palomino*

Duran Duran

© 1997 Parlophone Records Limited, a Warner Music Group Company

Desperado

Eagles

© 1973 Asylum Records

Doll*

Foo Fighters

© 1997 Roswell Recordings, Inc.

Whatsername*

Green Day

© 2004 Reprise Records for the U.S. and WEA International Inc. for the world outside the U.S.

Sign of the Times*

Harry Styles

© 2017 Erskine Records Limited, under exclusive license to Columbia Records

Until the End of Time*

Justin Timberlake (with Beyoncé)

© 2006, 2007 Zomba Recording LLC

Not Alone*

Linkin Park

© 2011 © 2010 Warner Records Inc.

Daylight*

Maroon 5

© 2012 A&M/Octane Records

© 2012 Interscope Records

You Are Not Alone*

Michael Jackson

© 1995 MJJ Productions Inc.

Story of My Life*

One Direction

© 2013 Simco Limited under exclusive license to Sony Music Entertainment UK Limited

On the Turning Away*

Pink Floyd

© 2016 The copyright in this sound recording is owned by Pink Floyd (1987) Ltd.

You’re Not Alone*

Saosin

© 2006 Capitol Records, LLC

All the Same*

Sick Puppies

© 2007 RMR Music Group

© 2007 VIRGIN RECORDS

Lover Taylor Swift

© 2019 Taylor Swift

I’m Down*

The Almost

© 2013 Tooth & Nail Records

* 60 bpm according to bpmdatabase.com.

FOR GBU MEMBERS THREE TO NINE YEARS OLD

MY SUMMER VACATION COLORING CONTEST

GBU members between the ages of three and nine years old can enter their colored page in this year's contest themed: My Summer Vacation.

Three age categories will be judged:

Category I: Ages three and four

Category II: Ages five and six

Category III: Ages seven, eight and nine

Entrants may use crayons, colored pencils, markers or water paints. Entries will be accepted through Wednesday, August 16, 2023, at 11:59 p.m. EST The picture on the next page can be reproduced, or copies can be obtained by calling the Community Engagement Team at the GBU Home Office (800-765-4428).

CASH PRIZES FOR EACH CATEGORY

First prize: $75

Second prize: $50

Third prize: $30

HOW TO ENTER

Send the three- to nine-year-old GBU member's coloring contest entry with their name and address on the back of the child's colored page to

GBU Life

ATTN: Member Benefits

4254 Saw Mill Run Boulevard

Pittsburgh, PA 15227-3394.

Or email contest@gbu.org with "Coloring Contest Entry" as the subject line.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Judges reserve the right to accept or reject any or all entries. Their decisions will be final. Artwork will be handled at the GBU Home Office with the utmost care. GBU reserves the right to reproduce entries for whatever use it wishes, provided proper credit is given. Permission does not include the sale of such work.

MY SUMMER VACATION COLORING CONTEST

For GBU members between the ages of three and nine years old. Please write name, age and address on the back of this coloring entry.

GBU Foundation Scholarships

Important Dates

15October 15

August 15October 15

15October 15

15October 15

15

15

Important Scholarship Notes:

Notification will be sent by gbufoundation.awardspring.com email and by mail

Every scholarship recipient must provide official verification of enrollment as a full-time student (or at least a part-time student for Graduate Scholarship recipients) for the fall term. Upon receipt of enrollment verification, payment will be remitted directly to the accredited school as a payment toward tuition and fees.

GBU High School Freshman Grants:

Notification will be sent by email and by mail. No additional paperwork will be necessary for payment.

For more information, please contact Charitable Giving and PR Specialist Ken Elliott at kenneth.elliott@gbu.org or 412-336-3246, or the Community Engagement Team at memberbenefits@gbu.org or 800-765-4428.

Additional Scholarships Available to Pennsylvania and New England GBU Members

Pennsylvania Fraternal Alliance 2023 Scholarship Program

At least three $500 scholarships will be awarded by the Pennsylvania Fraternal Alliance to 2023 high school graduates pursuing further education in summer or fall 2023.

An eligible applicant must

Be a Pennsylvania resident and a member of a fraternal benefit society that is a member of the Pennsylvania Fraternal Alliance. GBU Life is a member of the Pennsylvania Fraternal Alliance.

Be a 2023 high school graduate attending an accredited college, university, trade school or similar institution in the summer or fall of 2023 as a full-time student (12 semester credits)

Obtain a recommendation letter from your fraternal benefit society. Contact your local district or memberbenefits@gbu.org.

Submit a 500-word essay on: “What has membership in a fraternal insurance company meant to you.”

The application deadline is July 31, 2023. Awards will be announced by August 15, 2023.

New England Fraternal Alliance Scholarship Program 2023

Two $1,000 scholarships will be awarded by the New England Fraternal Alliance to students in their sophomore, junior or senior year in college or in graduate school.

An eligible applicant must be

Enrolled as a full-time student in an accredited college/ university or graduate school.

A New England resident and a member (or child of a member) of a fraternal benefit society that holds membership in the New England Fraternal Alliance. GBU Life is a member of the New England Fraternal Alliance.

Have a cumulative grade point average of at least 2.0 (on a 4.0 scale). Spring 2023 semester transcript must be submitted with application.

The application deadline is September 1, 2023. Awards will be announced by October 15, 2023.

Complete information on both scholarships, including eligibility guidelines, procedures and applications, can be found by visiting inside.gbu.org/benefits

Choose your Own Choose your Own

ADVENTURE

Summer Summer

The GBU Youth Leaders program is a new part of GBU Life's commitment to our youth and their education. The best way to help the communities we care about is to help foster a sense of community in our youth. We hope that GBU Youth Leaders will grow up to be advocates and strong leaders both for GBU and for the communities they live in.

Summer Gift Enrollments

Whether you are a student or a parent, we understand that during the summertime, schedules can get a little crazy. Kickstart your points earning this summer with our revised GBU Youth Leader Choose Your Own Adventure Summer program. Simply take 3 (or more) virtual courses this summer and earn your annual points for the year.

As a GBU Youth Leader, you will receive three free gift enrollments that can be used for any preselected virtual Outschool course this summer. Choose a time and day that works best for your summer schedule. Summer is supposed to be a break, right? We feel the same, so we picked courses that are fun, light, and engaging.

If you're not signed up yet, now is the time. Register at inside.gbu.org/youth-leaders

DISTRICT HAPPENINGS

DISTRICT HAPPENINGS

District 45–Altoona, Pennsylvania

Happy summer to all GBU members and their families and friends. The first day of summer arrives with the summer solstice on June 21, 2023, at 10:58 a.m. Break out the sunscreen and enjoy the sunny weather.

The District 45 Calendar of Events and Scholarship Request Letters were mailed. If you did not receive these, let me know, and I will make sure you get them. Scholarship donations may be sent to Treasurer Betty Richardson (2524 W. Chestnut Ave., Altoona, PA 16601). Please make checks payable to GBU District 45 and denote Scholarship Fund in the memo line.

Thank you to everyone who helped with and supported the spring Pie Sale. We were able to donate $400 each to Dreams Go On Riding Stable and Miracle League Special Needs Baseball Organization.

We presented the check on May 4 to Dreams Go On-Therapeutic Riding Stable with proceeds from the spring Pie Sale (l to r): Robin Kessler, Erin Kelly, Sophia DeGennaro on Cash the therapeutic riding horse, Program Manager Debbie Kelly and Chantel DeGennaro.

Thank you to everyone who helped with the Children’s Easter Party that was held in conjunction with the Unter Uns. There were 25 children in attendance with their families. Games, activities, food and a visit with the Easter bunny made for an afternoon of fun.

Thank you, everyone, for coming out to help with our Join Hands Day Project. We met at the Unter Uns for a week during the middle of April to work on the cement pad project and to help clean up the outside grounds. These preparations were for Memorial Day activities and the Club’s anniversary celebration held the last weekend in June. The anniversary activities were open to the public. Hopefully, you were able to stop in to enjoy some good food and music.

Sophia DeGennaro and I made friends with the Easter bunny. You can never have too many friends.

Easter Party at the Unter Uns.

Upcoming District Events

Volunteers for Join Hands Day pouring the cement pad at the Unter Uns Club.

We continue our GBU Cares project as we collect personal hygiene items to donate to the local shelters. To have a donation picked up, contact Treasurer Betty Richardson (814-943-6655 ) or me. Motel-size or full-size bottles of shampoo, conditioner, soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant, etc. are greatly appreciated.

Our annual District Picnic will be held on Friday, August 18 at the Swiss Club. The Club is located at 1219 Harrison Avenue in Altoona, Pennsylvania. Doors open at 5 p.m. for an evening of good food, fun and fraternal activities. We hope to see many of you there. Activities include a cake walk for the kids and another for the adults, treat bags for the kids, and door prizes. RSVP to me, one of our district officers, or your referral agent. We hope to see many members and their guests at the Picnic.

GBU District 45 Scholarships are now available for those planning to attend a post-secondary college, business or trade school full time during the 2023-’24 school year. Applications must be postmarked no later than Sunday, October 1, 2023, to be eligible for a scholarship. Please contact me for an application.

Volunteers at the Unter Uns for Join Hands Day Clean Up.

District 45–Altoona, Pennsylvania, continued

Our fall Pie Sale will again benefit the St. Vincent De Paul Assumption Chapel Food Pantry and starts on Sunday, October 1. Orders are due to me by Monday, November 6 The order will be delivered to the Food Pantry on Saturday, November 18 and pick up will be between 10 a.m. and noon. The pies would be good for Thanksgiving and will freeze well for the Christmas holiday, too.

We will also be collecting donations for the Assumption Chapel Food Pantry during the month of November. Donations can be dropped off at the food pantry on delivery day of the fall Pie Sale. If you need donations picked up, contact me or John (814-943-4481).

Save the date now and join us for the Veterans’ Day Parade to be held in Downtown Altoona on Saturday, November 11 at 10 a.m. If you are interested in participating, please contact me. Last year, the parade was rained out, so let’s hope for clear skies this year. As always, take a moment to thank a veteran for his or her service.

We welcome into our GBU family the new members who have recently joined GBU and District 45. We hope you have the opportunity to participate in one of our many activities and have the chance to meet some of our other members. Please feel free to contact me if you would like a copy of the district Calendar of Events or would like more information about the district. Check out the GBU website and be sure to sign up for access to the GBU Life Member Community page. This GBU members-only site enables you to participate in many fun activities, keep up to date with activities sponsored by the Home Office and our district and provides more information and photos.

Please join us at our monthly meetings. They are held at 6 p.m. on the second Wednesday of the month at the Unter Uns Club, which is located at Van Buren Avenue and 14th Street in Altoona. No meetings are held in January, July, November or December. (Your officers will have officers’ meetings instead to plan for upcoming activities.) Come, learn, support and get involved in the fraternal activities, and join us for refreshments.

- Robin Kessler, Fraternal Secretary

814-943-4481 or rob1jon@atlanticbb.net

District 84–Lancaster, Pennsylvania

Happy summer everyone! I want to begin by sending my condolences to the Mays and Bisking family on the passing of Carol Mays , who passed away in February. We haven’t had much going on. We did have a good turnout for our bowling in March. There were some new faces, as well as some familiar ones.

On April 16, we had our first-ever Gift Card Bingo. Bingo was the highlight of our spring. We had an amazing turnout and gave away some really cool gift cards. We hope to do it again soon.

TJ giving instructions.

We had Phillies Game Trip in June, and a Luncheon and Ice Cream Social is scheduled for Saturday, July 15. There will be more on that in the fall issue of The Reporter. Since we are more than halfway done with 2023, if you have any ideas on events for 2024, please let me, Edna Suter, or TJ Suter, Jr. know. We are looking for new ideas.

Upcoming Events

July No me eting

Saturday, July 15 Luncheon & Ice Cream Social at Scoops August No me eting

Saturday, August 12 Lancaster Barnstormers Game

Saturday, September 9 District Picnic

Sunday, September 17 Monthly Meeting and Social

Sunday, October 15 Monthly Meeting and Social

Meetings are now at 12 p.m. on the third Sunday of the month and still at the Millersville VFW.

You can always get details on district events by calling President Terry “TJ” Suter, Jr. ( 717-283-3628 or steelerstj13@gmail.com) or Fraternal Secretary/Treasurer Edna Suter ( 717-333-9388 or ednasuter65@gmail.com), by going onto Facebook (GBU District 84), or going to our district section of the GBU website reporter.gbu.org/member-news

- Ed na Suter, Fraternal Secretary/Treasurer 717-333-9388 or steelerstj13@gmail.com

People having fun at bowling.

TJ talking before bingo.

People enjoying bingo.

District 146–Johnstown, Pennsylvania

Greetings! Hope everyone is having a great summer.

Thanks to Gary, Jack, Mark and Marian (district officers) for donating their time as helping hands to me with the Join Hands Day project at the clubroom. The project took two mornings to complete. Several projects were completed inside the clubroom as a thank you to the Home Association and its members for their continued support of our district projects and fundraisers.

The annual AAABA Tournament is approaching, and the district will show its support by placing a full-page ad in its program booklet. If you like amateur baseball, there will be numerous games in the Johnstown area.

A Fundraiser will be held (date to be determined) to benefit Operation Reach Out.

The 2023-2024 school year will be here before you know it, and we will continue supporting the Tribune-Democrat NIE (Newspaper In Education) Program. This program supplies newspapers in the classroom to be used as learning tools.

September brings our annual Fundraiser to benefit the annual Needy Children Shopping Tour, which is organized by First Summit Bank. Donations of any amount are welcome. They can be dropped off after 3 p.m. in the clubroom or mailed to District 146 Children’s Christmas Fund, 40 Bridge Street, Johnstown, PA 15902.

Meetings are held at 7 p.m. on the second Monday of each month (except July) at the Moxham Beneficial Home Association, located at 40 Bridge Street in Johnstown, Pennsylvania (814-539-1290). Check the bulletin board in the clubroom for additional information, meeting dates and any changes.

-

Barbara Weimer, Fraternal Secretary/Treasurer

814-255-4710

District 510–Toledo, Ohio

Greetings from District 510.

We hosted our first meeting of 2023 on February 21. Members enjoyed a chili with “fixins” and cornbread dinner prior to the meeting. Thanks to Marilyn Riedeman and Mary Smith for preparing and serving the dinner and to Tom Riedeman for the chocolate Valentine candy treats. Our speakers for the meeting were Order of the Eastern Star Organization representatives Cortney Coakley and Dan Garringer. They told us about the organization’s Service Dog Training Program.

At the March 21 monthly meeting, we enjoyed Reuben sandwiches with German potato salad prepared by Lynne Shoup. GBU District 510 officers performed its annual audit and held an officers’ meeting on March 29 at Tom and Marilyn Riedeman’s house. Thank you, Tom and Marilyn , for hosting it. Our Children’s Easter Bunny Hop Thru was held on April 2 at Oak Shade Grove. The children were greeted by the Easter Bunny and got to take pictures with him. Each child received an Easter basket full of goodies. Thank you District 510 officers and 2023 GBU Queen Sophie Riedeman for volunteering your time. Special thanks go to Jeff Schimming .

We capped off April with our monthly meeting on April 18. Attendees enjoyed brats and potato pancakes prepared by the Toledo Holzhacker Buam (THB) Schuhplattler Gruppe.

Upcoming Events

Sunday, July 16 Picnic, Riedeman’s Farm

Friday-Sunday, August 25-27 Ge rman-American Festival

Tuesday, September 19 Monthly meeting and Steak Roast

For current news on GBU District 510 events, please check the GBU District 510 Facebook page.

We are looking forward to seeing everyone at our future meetings. Our regular meetings are held the third Tuesday of each month at the GAF. The meal is served starting at 6 p.m., and our meeting starts at 7 p.m.

- Jacqueline Martin, Fraternal Secretary 419-350-6684 or Toysrmonica@sbcglobal.net

Presenting the $1,000 check through GBU 2023 Districts in Action program from the GBU Home Office to the Order of the Eastern Star Organization for the Service Dog Training Program.

THB presented our district with a cake commemorating the ten years since the dance group became affiliated with GBU District 510. The THB Kinder Gruppe also entertained us with several dance numbers.

District 536–Lafayette, Indiana

We are enjoying the spring weather and sunnier days. The flowers always make everyone feel happier.

Our small group has recently gotten smaller due to two regular members now living in nursing homes. We wish them well in this new phase of their lives.

We continue to meet once a month to enjoy fellowship and remember our more robust days when we had big crowds at our meetings. Now we go out to eat at local restaurants each month.

volunteer hours. A big thank you goes to Community Outreach Coordinator Susan Weber, who organizes our volunteers. If anyone is interested in volunteering, please let Susan know.

Earlier this year, we reported that we selected to support The Leukemia Foundation for Arizona’s Children in support of one of our members and their family who are experiencing childhood leukemia firsthand. GBU Home Office donated the first $1,000. District 630 members donated an additional $278.76 that the GBU Home Office matched! The total donation to The Leukemia Foundation for Arizona’s Children was $1,557.52. A big THANK YOU for all your support!

For our JOIN HANDS DAY project this year, we cleaned up the outside grounds and planted flowers at the Grotto Club.

Following our May meeting, we had a health and wellness presentation from our special guest and Home Office Great Lakes District Engagement Specialist Laqueeta Coleman . The presentation was followed by a Mother’s Day Celebration meal.

We do still donate to the local charities we have supported for years, and very soon, we will take a check to the St. Ann’s Share and Care Kitchen, in addition to donating money for supplies to a local elementary school.

Our thoughts and prayers are with those unable to attend our monthly get-togethers. Take care and enjoy life!

- M. Elise Thoennes, President/Recording Secretary 765-447-3249

District 630–Ann Arbor, Michigan

Hello summer!

Summer is the perfect time for warm nights, bare feet, watermelon and barbeques. I hope you are taking advantage of the nice weather and enjoying outdoor activities.

CONGRATULATIONS to all our 2023 graduates!

For any member that has been feeling ill or is recovering from an operation, we send you wishes for a speedy recovery and hope you feel better soon. Please let one of our officers know if you are ill or recovering from surgery so we can send you well wishes from the Sunshine Committee!

Our Community Outreach Program resumed in January with monthly cooking for the after-school program at Peace Neighborhood Center. We would like to thank our members who continue to support this program and for all their

All mothers in attendance received beautiful flowers.

On May 9, Marianne Rauer and Traudel Kummer delivered to Busch’s the donations we collected in support of the ABC (All About Children) Food Drive. All donations from the food drive will help families in need through Food Gatherers, Forgotten Harvest and other local food banks.

On May 20, members attended the SUV Anniversary Dinner Dance. As always, everyone had a good time, and it was so great to see all our friends!

In September, October and November, we will be collecting donations for Food Gatherers.

Please mark your calendars for these upcoming events:

Sunday, September 10 Monthly meeting with Potluck, 1 p.m. Sunday, October 8 Monthly meeting with Elections and Oktoberfest meal, 1 p.m.

We look forward to seeing you at one of our meetings or events, which are held at the Grotto Club, located at 2070 West Stadium Blvd. in Ann Arbor.

- Christina MacKellar, Fraternal Secretary

734-646-9388 or christina.mackellar@gbu.org

District 684–Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Greetings from District 684 in Pittsburgh!

The last few months have been busy for our district. We kicked off our spring with a social event/fundraiser at TopGolf Pittsburgh on February 26. We had 80 people in attendance on a beautiful, sunny Sunday afternoon. This fundraiser was to raise money through our 50/50 for the Lord’s Pantry at Baldwin Community United Methodist Church, which was our Districts in Action charitable organization for 2023.

Enjoying a meal at O’Charley’s.

Members eating out.

District 684–Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, continued

On March 29, we were honored to assist District 171 at the Vietnam Veterans’ Luncheon at VFW Post 1810. All veterans were welcome. Our district made a monetary donation and provided desserts, and several of our members helped serve lunch.

Vietnam Veteran Luncheon volunteers (l-r): Mary Koczan, Sandy Wagner, Judy Bickel, Karen Potkul, Diane Warznak and Joann Pukansky.

On May 6, we had our annual Kentucky Derby night at Gianna Via’s restaurant. We enjoyed food, games and socializing with friends. The ladies wore their fanciest hats. Pictures to follow in the next issue.

We hope to see new members at our meetings and events! Please feel free to contact me so that we can add you to our email/mail list.

Stay safe and enjoy the summer weather!

- Jackie Alaimo, Fraternal Secretary

Jackie.alaimo@gbu.org or 412-720-4801

District 699–Frankenmuth, Michigan

Fraternal greetings from GBU 699. By the time you read this, we should be well into summer, but we are just getting into spring when I write this. The beginning of this year has already been busy.

Our first meeting in 2023 was held on January 15. We went over all of our plans for the year. We talked about the Fraternal Passport and what GBU 699 could do to fill up our passport.

We had a Wellness event planned for February 4. This was a winter running race in the dead of winter. Our group represented GBU 699 in 18-degree weather and high winds.

Diverting traffic from the route.

Four members volunteered to work the Winter Lauf. Cheering on the runners.

At the February 8 officers’ meeting, we performed an audit, and then enjoyed some snacks and time catching up on stories and goals for the year. We also took care of some details for the upcoming Putt Putt and Pizza event.

After the February 19 meeting at the world-famous Bavarian Inn Lodge, we had our Putt Putt and Pizza event. Since the 18-hole course is indoors, we were all comfortable and putting away. This was one of our youth events. I am happy to say we had a good showing of young people at the event. Overall, it was a successful event with 29 participants.

The pizza was fantastic.

Members of all ages participated.

Having fun at the Putt-Putt event.

For this year, we picked the local cat rescue Pet Angel as our Districts in Action recipient. We will have an article in the Frankenmuth News to promote both Pet Angel and GBU.

District 699–Frankenmuth, Michigan, continued

An officers’ meeting, as well as a regular meeting, was held in March at daVinci’s. We went over the GBU Youth Leaders program and talked about who may be able to head the project. Our discussion turned to the upcoming GBU Community Day for the state of Michigan. This event will take place at the Detroit Zoo and is being headed up by Great Lakes Regional Coordinator Laqueeta Coleman . Members voted to donate $250 toward parking for all Michigan districts, as well as to cover our members’ admission fees to the Detroit Zoo.

The next meeting was scheduled to be at daVinci’s on April 16 at 1 p.m.

Join Hands Day on May 6 found members helping clean up Crayola Park in Saginaw and then enjoying lunch at Saginaw Old Town Junction, a train-themed restaurant.

Both the May 17 and June 21 meetings were held at daVinci’s at 6 p.m.

We hope that everyone has a wonderful summer!

Anyone interested in attending a meeting/dinner or a GBU 699 event can contact me for more information at dan.pierce@mail.com.

- Dan Pierce, Fraternal Secretary 989-482-9020 or dan.pierce@mail.com

District 701–Pontiac, Michigan

SUMMER is here!

As a reminder, our district has chosen the DASV as our 2023 Districts in Action project. What we are trying to accomplish is a much-needed rebuild of the outside shooting booth (hopefully, for future events that are joined by surrounding, invited German groups), the outside bar and potentially picnic tables. Imagine the joy at the future Schutzenfests, Oktoberfests, Pig Roasts and other festivities surrounded by all DASV and GBU friends and family as we celebrate together. We can make it happen! This is a very large venture, where donations and fundraising activities are in the works. All of this may take some time, so please get involved and help spread the word to anyone interested in helping. Here are a couple websites to get more information: dasv.org and community.gbu.org

On another note, we are looking forward to the “big day’’ at the Detroit Zoo coming up on Saturday, July 22 at 10 a.m. It sounds as if we’re going to be joined by a few other GBU groups, so let’s pray for great weather!

Laqueeta is doing a fantastic job with her ideas!

Upcoming Activities

Friday, July 28 DA SV Park Clean Up for Schutzenfest, 3 p.m.

Saturday, July 29 DA SV Park Clean Up for Schutzenfest, 9 a.m.

Sunday, July 30 Sc hutzenfest featuring Tommy Schober & the Sorgenbrecher, 12 p.m.

Tuesday, August 8 District 701 General Meeting, 12 p.m.

Sunday, August 13 GACC Duetscher Tag (German Day), Austrian Park, 1 p.m.

Tuesday, September 5 District 701 General Meeting, 12 p.m.

Saturday, September 9 Chili Cookoff, DASV, time TBD

Thursday, October 5 DA SV Park Clean Up for Oktoberfest, 3 p.m.

Friday, October 6 DA SV Oktoberfest featuring Tommy Schober & the Sorgenbrecher, 6:30 p.m. Saturday, October 21 Kronungsball {Coronation Ball), DASV, 6:30 p.m.

Interested in joining us for a District 701 general meeting? We usually gather on the first Tuesday of the month at the DASV Clubhouse at Noon, located at 2650 Auburn Road in Auburn Hills, just east of the I-75 overpass. It’s always best to notify us before a meeting in case the schedule has changed.

- Richard A. De Arment, Fraternal Secretary 248-709-4949 or MetroDetroitBroker@gmail.com

District 707–Grand Rapids, Michigan

We held our first meeting of 2023 on March 22. A lively discussion was held on what members would like to see our district do and what we can do.

As stated in my last article, District 707 chose Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Foundation as our 2023 Districts In Action recipient. A flyer was sent out to tell members how to donate and get funds matched by GBU. Thank you, GBU, for supporting this non-profit in our area.

Treasurer Ken Larm presented the Rehabilitation Foundation with a check of $1,000 from GBU.

Our annual May Day Dance was held on May 21. Flyers were sent out.

The District 707 College Scholarship program is available for our active members who are full-time students attending an accredited college in 2023-2024. Contact jcwik227@yahoo.com, or call me at the number below for the form. Applicants must provide verification of fall 2023 enrollment.

Be sure to join us at our meetings, which are usually held on the fourth Wednesday of each month at St. Casimir Hall.

- Ju dy Cwiklinski Fraternal Secretary 616-454-6026 or jcwik227@yahoo.com

District 815–Dayton, Ohio

On May 1, GBU provided a $1,000 check, plus $2,500 in matching funds, for a final total of $7,100 we raised for East End Community Services (EECS) through the Districts in Action program!!

District 815–Dayton, Ohio, continued

Our next monthly meeting will be held on Sunday, September 17, and will be followed by bingo.

If interested in attending our meetings or activities, please contact District President Anna Janjanin (215-632-3837)

- Julie A. Davis, Fraternal Secretary 215-870-6585 or bjb7241@verizon.net

District 821–Sterling Heights, Michigan Dear Members,

Group

The East End Community Services “You Science” program provides an aptitude/interest computer model for middle school and high school students to assess their abilities and match them to community resources.

GBU members, Dayton Liederkranz, St. Anne’s Hill and the EECS students—approximately 30 people—did an Earth Day Neighborhood Clean Up that included pizza and desserts afterward. We felt privileged to be part of this program.

The tablecloth, pop up and banner, along with the Liederkranz pop up, looked really nice.

Three months went by quickly, probably because we keep busy, right? I always experience pleasure seeing the positive attitudes and the accomplishments of our members. We practiced the songs for our Madison, Wisconsin, trip in June and the North American Singers getting together from all different states, as we do every three years. Covid protocols restricted having this get-together, making us wait until the fourth year.

We are thankful and enjoy our new place, the German-American Culture Center (GACC), located at 40450 Hayes Road in Clinton Township. There are several affiliated clubs that now call it home. We practice and meet there regularly. The mailing address of the GACC is PO Box 237, Warren, MI 48090-0237, but, our District 821 mailing address is 22454 Virginia, Eastpointe, MI 48021.

Ingrid H. Stein, our district member and president of the GACC, was mostly responsible for finding this home for our affiliated clubs.

Be sure to mark your calendar.

Friday-Sunday, August 11-13 Ge rmanFest Picnic, Liederkranz (1400 E. Fifth St., Dayton 45402); good food and entertainment. Volunteers are always appreciated. For more information: Dayton LiederkranzTurner (daytongermanclub.org)

Sunday, September 3 Magee Women’s Cancer Research Institute Walk (TBD)

Tuesday, September 19 GB U District Gathering (TBD)

Friday, October 6 Ge rman-American Day

Tuesday, October 17 GB U District Gathering (TBD)

Saturday, October 21 Re membrance Walk, Hospice (324 Wilmington Ave., Dayton 45420); 8:30 a.m. Registration, 10:00 a.m. Walk

- Chris van Breukelen, FIC, Fraternal Secretary 937-885-4784 or wvanbreukelen@compuserve.com

District 817–Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Happy 4th of July, happy Labor Day and happy autumn!

District 817 gave donations to various charitable organizations and also the GBU Foundation for scholarships.

The April 16 district meeting was followed by an Egg Hunt. Everyone in attendance had fun. A Pizza Party followed the May 21 meeting. We do not hold meetings in June, July or August ; however, our district will be doing a community project over the summer.

The male chorus had its Sauerkraut Abendessen on February 25. Five different sauerkraut dishes, brought in by members, were served in addition to other good food, a concert and a sing-along!

A new get-together for St. Patrick’s Day included corned beef and cabbage, music performances and another sing-along!

The official male chorus concert was held on April 30. Of course, GBU’s choir always loves to be there and participate.

Approximately 10-14 members have been actively attending the Senior Club at St. Peter’s German Church every other Wednesday.

Percy Jones, Trudy Campbell, Wilfred van Breukelen and Jeff Gerrior socializing after the presentation.

meeting inside.

District 821–Sterling Heights, Michigan, continued

We are pleased to see an active effort is being made to help Friends of Foster Kids. We had no idea how many children constantly seek family homes—about 2,000 yearly in Michigan. Some people had donated stuffed animals—“Comfort Babies” to the children.

The organization asked if we could dress the “Comfort Babies” with real pairs of socks, gloves etc. so that they can choose for themselves which one they like.

We finished on March 1 with two baskets full! We had already provided homemade hats, scarves and blankets for the children through the blanket drive.

Our last project with the senior group (over 10 of us with others) on March 15 was to fill 900 plastic eggs for the children of families facing challenges this Easter.

The eggs were dropped off at Faith @ Work and distributed on Holy Saturday night for Easter morning’s surprise.

District 821 member Lore Kopp has been assisting the Macomb Community College Foundation Performing Arts Annual Program for years through GBU’s One Hour at a Time. She just received a thank-you letter that the Foundation again had received a gift from GBU Financial Life. Thank you, Lore, and thank you, GBU, for having this member benefit!

A big thank you goes to Irmgard Krause for her efficiency in taking care of the district treasurer’s job for 22 years! Thank you, Irmgard , from all of us.

With all the worries we are facing right now, don’t neglect to make sure your financial status is in order. Please feel free to share any concerns you may have, and find out how they may be solved.

Upcoming Festivities

Sunday, November 19 Fall Concert, GACC

- Marianne Krenzer, Fraternal Secretary 586-776-7058, (cell) 586-996-1169 or mekrenzer@hotmail.com

District 1000–LFA Dear Members,

“Summer means happy times and good sunshine.”

– Brian Wilson

Membership News

GBU District 1000 Scholarship Applications are due by Saturday, July 15, 2023. Applications can be picked up at the District 1000 office.

Membership Give Back Group Opportunities

Districts in Action Program. District 1000 was again able to award five 501(c)(3) organizations with an initial $1,000 toward their charity. The GBU Home Office matched additional funds donated by members towards the charity of their choosing. The final donations awarded to these organizations were as follows:

Camp Concordia $1,722

Macomb Charitable Foundation $1,404

Gifts for All of God’s Children $1,554

O.A.T.S (Offering Alternative Therapy with Smiles) $1,722 Seedlings Braille Books for Children $1,104

Thank you to all of our members who donated to these organizations. They will help make a difference to all those whom these organizations serve.

Relay for Life 2023 was held on May 6 at Chippewa Valley Ninth Grade Center. At the time this article was written, our team had raised $2,515!! We will make the final push to reach our goal of $3,000.

Please feel free to visit relayforlife.org , click on the Donate button and then enter GBU District 1000. You can enter in your donation amount online to help support the American Cancer Society.

Mark your Calendars (events might be subject to change) We will be working on trying to get some events together for us to participate in. If you have any ideas that you want to share, please let us know.

Mel Ott Lutheran Night with GBU Life District 1000 will be held at Jimmy John’s Field on Friday, August 11, 2023, at 7:05 p.m. Come watch the Utica Unicorns take on the Eastside Diamond Hoppers. There will be fireworks after the baseball game. Be on the lookout for a flyer in your mail for more information. Please contact a District 1000 officer to purchase your tickets. Tickets will be $36 a person (which includes premium buffet, unlimited soft drinks, two tickets for beer/wine and reserved grandstand seating). Children three years and under are FREE.

District 1000–LFA, continued

Look on GBU Life Member Community for upcoming events to join. We have a District 1000 page where you can find The Reporter articles, RSVP for events and connect with other GBU members. Please make sure you have a current email address on file at the Home Office to be included in GBU Life Member Community.

Reminders

We have “gently used” wheelchairs/walkers available for pick up at our district office at no cost for anyone in need. LWML is continuing to collect canceled postage stamps for its Stamps for Mission program. Simply cut the canceled stamp off the envelope and bring it to the next function. We will see that it gets to the LWML.

If any members have any suggestions or ideas for events that they would like our district to consider, please feel free to let us know. We encourage more members to get involved and attend events. Let us know what activities you would like District 1000 to host. Please feel free to call 586-677-2020

A district officers’ meeting will be held in August at 6 p.m. via Zoom.

Christian volunteering is contagious.

- St acia (Penzien) Zarzycki, Sentinel 586-677-2020

District 2000–ULS

Assembly 2A Fraternal Secretary Holly Ciotola presents the GBU Districts in Action donation of $1,000 to Mary Beth Koch, executive director of Helping Hands in Hazleton, Pennsylvania. Helping Hands is a nonprofit organization that provides top-quality higher education and therapeutic services to special needs children and their families. Its program also provides preschool and toddler classes for academic tutoring, speech therapy and parent counseling. They have enriched the lives of countless children in the area, regardless of ethnicity, religion, gender, cultural background or financial ability. Helping Hands has been serving the area for 40 years and is very appreciative of GBU’s financial support.

Assembly 9 Fraternal Secretary James Slough presents a $1,000 check to Michelle Simko, representative of the Trinity Lutheran Church Food Pantry in Cleveland, Ohio. This donation was part of GBU’s Districts in Action fraternal program that provides financial assistance to charitable organizations.

Assembly Activities

On March 12, Assembly 62 in Hermitage, Pennsylvania, held its General Membership Takeout Dinner in the Fellowship Hall of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church. Members Kathy Haywood, Kathy Long and Sharon Bryan prepared the dinners.

Assembly President Ron Tomko and Ruth Klein show the meals are ready to go!

It’s a family affair delivering the packaged meals; President Tomko is joined by Jill, Astyn and Alyssa Antel. After delivering the meals, members held a brief meeting to discuss future activities.

FYI, Sharon Tobik from Assembly 9 in Cleveland, Ohio, was the first-quarter winner in our Assembly Attendance Drawing and received a $100 cash award. She was eligible to receive this stipend by participating in her local assembly activities. You could be our next winner by attending your assembly’s next function!

’til next time!

- Je rry A. Hauser, Treasurer jdhauser@comcast.net or 724-953-8287

District 4000–Sokol USA

On April 15, our Lodge 30 Danbury members, along with VFW Post 10201 members and community members, held its first fraternal project under the new program that promotes and deepens our involvement in our community. There were 30-35 people throughout the morning who helped rake and seed the lawn, cleaned out flower beds, built a kayak stand, cleaned out the shed, mulched around the building, chopped wood and got rid of debris in the lake and on the property.

It was a beautiful day for a BBQ! We grilled hamburgers and hot dogs and enjoyed some cold beer while enjoying the outdoor patio.

We had a wonderful time and enjoyed seeing new faces at the MCT meeting held on April 30 at the Sokol Club in Leechburg. The hall in Leechburg is really nice, and the food that Jeff Clever made was wonderful. Along with being president of Sokol Lodge 255 in Leechburg, Pennsylvania, Jeff has a catering business.

District 4000–Sokol USA, continued

Additional upcoming events in the summer include Farrell Lodge’s Golf Outing. This event is open to the public and helps to fund programs at its lodge. In July, join with members and sister-related organizations to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Slovak Day at Kennywood Park in West Mifflin, Pennsylvania. In September, MCT is sponsoring a Milan Getting Scholarship Dinner at Huszar Restaurant located at North Avenue in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The next MCT meeting will be held Sunday, April 28, 2024; please mark your calendars to attend.

- Nancy Hughes-Shurina, Fraternal Activities Chair fna240@verizon.net or 724-459-8170

MAKE-A-DATE

Please check with one of your district officers to confirm whether an event has been canceled.

Date District Event

JULY

TBD 707 (MI) Summer Picnic

15 84 (PA) Luncheon & Ice Cream Social, Scoops

15 1000 (MI) District 1000 Scholarship applications due 16 ALL GBU at the Zoo, Pittsburgh Zoo & Aquarium

16 510 (OH) Picnic, Riedeman’s Farm

19 4000 (CT) Lodge 30 VFW Golf Tournament

22 ALL GBU at the Zoo, Detroit Zoo

30 701/821 (MI) Schützenfest, Schützen Park

A UGUST

ALL 1000 (MI) Food-A-Thon

TBD 291 (PA) Movies in the Park

TBD 4000 (PA) Lodges 103 & 255 Golf Tournament

11-13 815 (OH) GermanFest, Liederkranz; volunteers needed

11 1000 (MI) Mel Ott-Lutheran Night with GBU Life District 1000, Jimmy John’s Field, 5 p.m.

12 84 (PA) Lancaster Barnstormers Game

13 821 (MI) GACC Deutscher Tag, Austrian Park

18 45 (PA) District Picnic, Swiss Club of Altoona; doors open 5 p.m.; RSVP required

25-27 510 (OH) German-American Festival

SEPTEMBER

ALL 146 (PA) Fundraiser benefiting annual Needy Children Shopping Tour

ALL 630 (MI) Collecting donations for Food Gatherers

3 815 (OH) Magee Women’s Cancer Research Institute Walk (TBD)

9 84 (PA) District Picnic

10 699 (MI) Dow Gardens Tour, 1 p.m.

10 630 (MI) Potluck

17 84 (PA) Social

17 707 (MI) Octoberfest Dance

17 817 (PA) Bingo

19 510 (OH) Steak Roast

27 810 (OH) Retirement Planning and Happy Hour

Date District Event

O CTOBER

ALL 630 (MI) Collecting donations for Food Gatherers

1 45 (PA) District 45 Scholarship applications due

6 701/821 (MI) Oktoberfest, Schützen Park, 6:30 p.m.

8 291 (PA) Halloween Par ty

11 45 (PA) Fall Pie Sale benefiting St. Vincent De Paul Assumption Chapel Food Pantry begins

6 815 (OH) German-American Day

8 630 (MI)

NOVEMBER

ALL 45 (PA) Collecting donations for Assumption Chapel Food Pantry

(First row, l to r) Carolyn Coleman, Ken Clever, Mary Ann Slaninka, Helen R. Slaninka, Linda Ringle, John Kennedy, Eileen Krachale, Joe Bielicki and Jerry Blistan. (Second row) Shane Steele, Patrick Sharp, Jeff Clever and Nancy Shurina.

With life insurance, I’ve got you ... and your education.

With life insurance, I’ve got you ... and your education.

You would do anything to protect your family and ensure they have a bright future. But have you considered how your loved ones would continue on financially if you were no longer here?

You would do anything to protect your family and ensure they have a bright future. But have you considered how your loved ones would continue on financially if you were no longer here?

Life insurance is a simple and affordable way to answer that question. It allows you to say to your loved ones, “I’ve got you” … and mean it.

Life insurance is a simple and affordable way to answer that question. It allows you to say to your loved ones, “I’ve got you” … and mean it.

GERMANFEST G E R M A N F E S T

Friday, July 28-Sunday, July 30 Events open to the public.

Henry Maier Festival Park 200 North Harbor Drive Milwaukee, WI 53202

FRIDAY, JULY 28–3 PM TO MIDNIGHT

Opening Ceremony-5:15 PM

Fireworks-10:30 PM

SATURDAY, JULY 29–NOON TO MIDNIGHT

Trachtenschau-2:30 PM

Parade-4:00 PM

Mardi Gras Show-6:30 PM

Fireworks-10:30 PM

SUNDAY, JULY 30–NOON TO 7 PM

Dachshund Derby-1:00 PM

Hours subject to change.

Get 6 free tickets for Saturday or Sunday by registering at community.gbu.org/events/48910 by Friday, July 14 or while supplies last.

DISTRICTS IN ACTION 2023

Every year, we call upon our GBU districts to select an organization in their local area to support. This is known as the Districts in Action program. The 2023 Districts in Action program helped support a variety of causes, including food banks, burn camps, animal shelters and rehabilitation facilities. We are proud to announce that GBU and its members donated a total of $61,654 to support organizations located in PA, MI, OH, IL, NJ, MN, and AZ.

District 45-Altoona, PA: Allegheny Lutheran Social Ministries' Blair County At Home Program, $2,700

District 146-Johsntown, PA: Mom's House Inc. of Johnstown, $1,820

District 171-Pittsburgh, PA: Brentwood Meals on Wheels, $1,240

District 291-Summerhill, PA: Summerhill Recreation, $1,200

District 510-Toledo, OH: Ohio Grand Chapter Order of Eastern Star's Service Dog Fundraiser, $1,300

District 630-Ann Arbor, MI: The Leukemia Foundation for Arizona Children, $1,558

District 684-Pittsburgh, PA: Baldwin Community United Methodist Church's Lord's Pantry Food Distribution, $3,490

District 699-Frankenmuth, MI: Pet Angel Adoption and Rescue, $1,300

District 701-Pontiac, MI: Deutsch-Amerikanischer Schützenverein, $3,460

District 707-Grand Rapids, MI: Mary Free Bed Foundation, $1,100

District 810-Cleveland, OH: Tapestry Partners International, $5,250

District 815-Dayton, OH: East End Community Services Corporation, $7,030

District 821-Sterling Heights, MI: Carpathia Foundation, $2,680

District 1000-LFA: Camp Concordia, $1,722; Gifts for All God's Children, $1,554; Offering Alternative Therapy with Smiles (O.A.T.S.), $1,722; Seedlings Braille Books for Children, $1,104; Macomb Charitable Foundation, $1,404

District 2000-ULS: Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church Food Pantry, $1,200; AHEAD, INC., $1,000; Quota International of Massillon, $1,000; First Presbyterian Church of Duquesne, $1,050, Helping Hands Society, $1,300

District 3000-HRFA: First Baptist Church of Allentown, $1,400; Elijah's Promise, $1,140; Bethlen Communities, $1,290; Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank, $1,630; American Hungarian Friends of Scouting (AHFS), $1,080

District 5000-IOV: Concordia Language Villages, $2,200; Illinois Fire Safety Alliance-Camp “I Am Me”, $1,050; Arthur C. Luf Children’s Burn Camp, $1600; Great Lakes Burn Camp, $1,800

Where Are They Now

Celebrating 60 years of GBU Foundation Scholars

GBU Foundation was founded in 1963 to encourage and assist members in furthering their education through its scholarship program. In honor of its 60th anniversary, we are celebrating GBU Foundation Scholarship and Grant recipients’ achievements.

Christine van Breukelen Dayton, OH

GBU District 815 Referral Agent & Fraternal Secretary

District 815–Dayton, OH

GBU Freshman Scholarship, 1970 through 1974

University of Dayton, BS Medical Technology

University of Dayton, MBA

Gracie Jablonski

Altoona, PA

Prep, Mission BBQ

District 45-Altoona, PA

GBU Foundation Two-Year Scholarship, 2020

Pittsburgh Technical College

Culinary Arts School, Associate Degree, Food Science

Theodore Roman

Pittsburgh, PA

Health Insurance Payor Digital Strategy Practice Lead & Engagement Manager, Adobe

District 171-Pittsburgh, PA

GBU Foundation Freshman Scholarship, 2007 through 2011

Case Western Reserve University, BS Computer Science & BA Mathematics

Carnegie Mellon University, PhD Computational Biology

About my GBU Foundation Scholarship:

“It’s so important when others believe in you and encourage your success. The GBU scholarship helped provide that confidence.”

Since I graduated: “I started in medical technology, then medical sales. Serving as the referral agent gave me the flexibility for a career and family. My husband Wilfred and I live in Dayton. Our daughter Celine, also a GBU Scholar, lives in Anchorage.”

About my GBU Foundation Scholarship: “It helped me succeed in what I needed to use to earn my degree. It paid for my knife kit and books for schooling.”

If you are a GBU Foundation Scholarship or Grant recipient and would like to update us on your career, please fill out our online form. We will publish your information in the “Where Are They Now” posts in The Reporter and social media throughout 2023. Go to gbulife.typeform.com/to/iRwhSrK5.

About my GBU Foundation Scholarship: “My GBU scholarship, along with other financial awards, made it possible for me to attend graduate school without the pressure of accumulating student loan debt.”

FRATERNAL ADVENTURES

American Fraternal Alliance Spring Symposium

In April, a group of representatives from the GBU Home Office attended the American Fraternal Alliance Spring Symposium near Chicago, IL. GBU presented on Meaningful Member Connections, Fraternal Partnerships, Agent Recruiting and Compliance. The Spring Symposium is always an excellent opportunity to meet with colleagues from other fraternal organizations and exchange ideas. This year's event featured the first ever Fraternal Swap Shop, where we enjoyed a look at all of the great promo items that each fraternal had to offer!

Focusing on Education

Also in April, Elizabeth Forward High School invited Jennifer Stockdale and Ken Elliott to present the history of GBU and other fraternal organizations to tenth-grade students. In May and June, GBU awarded community scholarships to students at Brentwood, Baldwin and Elizabeth Forward High Schools for their commitment to academic excellence, leadership and community service.

GBU members and Home Office employees teamed up for a day of volunteering at The Education Partnership, which provides school supplies, STEM equipment and continuing education free of charge to underserved schools in the Pittsburgh area. At the end of April, GBU hosted Take Your Child to Work Day for the children and grandchildren of Home Office employees. Children learned about teamwork and leadership at GBU and enjoyed

a tour, scavenger hunt and "Office Olympics" games. It was great to see another generation of GBU kids getting to know one another!

Legislative Luncheon

Each year, the Pennsylvania Fraternal Alliance hosts the Legislative Luncheon in Harrisburg to give Pennsylvania fraternal organizations an opportunity to connect with State Representatives. Lesley Mann and Jennifer Stockdale attended on behalf of GBU and enjoyed connecting with our elected decision-makers from throughout the state.

2023 Photo Contest My Summer Vacation

Send us your favorite photo that depicts the photo contest theme, My Summer Vacation! Your picture entry may be anything from a road trip, a cookout with friends or a sleepover at your grandparents' house. Anything you deem as your summer vacation! You get the “picture.” We look forward to receiving an entry from you!

How to Enter

Contest is for GBU members of all ages.

Black-and-white or color prints are acceptable.

Photos must be submitted as taken. (This means no touch ups or cutting off parts of the picture.) Photos can be enlarged to any size not exceeding 5” X 7”.

Do not write on photo’s front or back (you can ruin your photo this way). Include a separate note stating, "My Summer Vacation Photo Contest Entry," plus your full name, address and email.

A maximum of two photographs may be submitted per GBU member. No entrant can qualify for more than one award per contest.

Photos must be submitted by Wednesday, August 16, 2023.

General Information

Send your photo(s) to one of the following.

Email contest@gbu.org with "My Summer Vacation Photo Contest Entry" in the subject line. Include the member's full name, address and email in the body of the email, or Mail to GBU Financial Life, ATTN: Member Benefits, 4254 Saw Mill Run Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15227-3394. Include the member's full name, address and email with a note in the envelope.

Prizes

First prize

Second prize

Third prize

Fourth prize

Fifth prizes (3)

$200 Amazon gift card

$100 Amazon gift card

$75 Amazon gift card

$50 Amazon gift card

$25 Amazon gift card

Judges reserve the right to accept or reject any or all entries. Their decisions will be final. Processed print photo(s) will be handled at the GBU Home Office with the utmost care and will be returned. GBU reserves the right to reproduce entries for whatever use it wishes, providing proper credit is given. Permission does not include the sale of such photos.

Rules 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

2022 District Awards Program Recipients

GBU acknowledges with great pleasure the hard work of the following districts. To achieve a place in the District Awards Program, the district must engage members and encourage community involvement in areas such as Wellness, Education, Charitable Giving and Hometown Hero Support. Congratulations on a job well done to the 2022 recipients.

Platinum

District 45–Altoona, PA

District 84–Lancaster, PA

District 146–Johnstown, PA

District 171–Pittsburgh, PA

District 291–Summerhill, PA

District 298–Allentown, PA

District 510–Toledo, OH

District 630–Ann Arbor, MI

District 684–Pittsburgh, PA

District 701–Pontiac, MI

District 707–Grand Rapids, MI

District 815–Dayton, OH

District 817–Philadelphia, PA

District 818–Orlando, FL

District 821–Sterling Heights, MI

District 2000–ULS

District 3000–HRFA

District 4000–Sokol USA

Gold District 536–Lafayette, IN

Silver District 699–Frankenmuth, MI

Bronze District 1000–LFA

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

BIRTHDAYMatch

HERE'S HOW IT WORKS

Make a charitable donation to a 501(c)(3) organization on your birthday and GBU Life (GBU) will match it, up to $100! To qualify, simply upload a receipt or screenshot of your donation and submit an online application to GBU within 60 days of your birthday.

TOTAL RAISED THROUGH BIRTHDAY MATCH IN 2023 SO FAR:

For more information or to submit an application, visit: REPORTER.GBU.ORG/BIRTHDAY-MATCH

GIVE BACK GROUP PROJECT SPOTLIGHT

GBU Members Use Give Back Group Program for Egg My Yard for a Cure Fundraiser

“I am extremely passionate about the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation-Western PA Chapter,” Nancy Seifert shared, “because I am the proud grandmother of Lucia and Palmer, two-year-old identical twin girls with the rarest form of Cystic Fibrosis (CF).”

“Upon birth, they were life-flighted to UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, a two-hour drive from home, where they spent their first 104 days in the NICU. They endured several surgeries and had a few close calls. The girls are currently doing well and thriving, but their genetic mutation doesn’t respond to the medications currently available.”

As part of Team CiaPom, Seifert participated in the Give Back Group program for the Egg My Yard for a Cure fundraiser she organized in Johnstown, PA, on April 8, 2023, to raise money for the rare form of CF her granddaughters have. Volunteers hid candy-filled eggs in donors’ yards so their children could wake up to an Easter egg hunt.

The fundraiser sparked the giving spirit of the community. Several people shared their personal stories of how CF has affected their lives. Local businesses provided donations and matching funds. Seifert and Team CiaPom raised $8,310. The $2,000 GBU Give Back Group match brought the total up to $10,310! “We are grateful for the Give Back Group matching program and are proud to be members of GBU!” Seifert said.

Give Back Groups

If you are working to raise funds for an organization that impacts your local

Give Back Groups

Several family members and friends came in from out of town. Volunteer "bunnies" filled the eggs with stickers and candy on Friday evening. With seven teams of two people, preparing routes and bagging and tagging eggs, they delivered 2,000 eggs to 36 houses in two hours!

VISIT GBUCARES.ORG/GIVE-BACKGROUPS TO REQUEST APPROVAL FOR YOUR GIVE BACK GROUP.

community, GBU will match the funds your group raises, up to $1,000 per GBU member to a maximum of $5,000 per group. Fundraising can be organized in any way you prefer: in person, through a mail campaign or even via Facebook. The funds matching must be for a qualifying 501(c)(3) organization that impacts your local community. The organization must have a listing on Charity Navigator.

C OMMUNITY PILLARS EDUCATION

Every 2023 issue of The Reporter will provide an update on one of GBU Life’s (GBU) four Community Pillars—Wellness, Education, Charitable Giving and Hometown Hero Support. The summer 2023 issue focuses on “Education,” including opportunities to enrich your community through volunteering and fundraising.

The Education Partnership

GBU Supplying Pittsburgh’s Classrooms

GBU first connected with The Education Partnership in Pittsburgh, PA, as part of Cardigan Day 2022. The annual, now national Cardigan Day recognition celebrates kindness and the inspiring work of Pittsburgh native, the late Mr. Fred Rogers. The GBU Home Office held its first school supply drive for the organization in October 2022, and the GBU Foundation awarded a $20,000 grant to The Education Partnership in November of that same year.

Program. In those schools, student and classroom supplies often not included in the budget. The Education Partnership purchases, packages and distributes the “basics” and operates a Teacher Resource Center, where teachers shop, once a semester, for donated specialty supplies.

In February of this year, GBU visited the Teacher Resource Center to educate teachers about the GBU Youth Leaders program. In March, a team of GBU employees volunteered to help restock, organize and clean the Teacher Resource Center, sort and count inventory and write encouraging notes to students.

For the 2023-2024 school year, GBU will begin a threeyear sponsorship of Pittsburgh Carmalt PreK-8 through The Education Partnership’s Adopt-A-School program. Pittsburgh Carmalt is a Pittsburgh Public Schools Science and Technology Academy, just miles from the Home Office. Employee volunteers will package supplies this summer and present them to students when they return to school this fall.

If you are in the Pittsburgh region and would like to contribute to GBU’s online supply drive, please text GBUSupply to 41444 or visit gbu.org/supply

The Education Partnership provides school supplies to students and teachers in over 190 schools in the Pittsburgh region, where 70% or more of their students qualify for free or reduced-price lunches through the National School Lunch

(L to r) Josh Whiteside, The Education Partnership Executive Director and Ken Elliott, Jennifer Stockdale, Rachel Cummins and Anna Meek from GBU.

DonorsChoose®

How You Can Support Students and Classrooms as a GBU Member

As a GBU member, you can contribute to supply needs in your local classrooms, wherever you live, through DonorsChoose.

DonorsChoose is one of the new charities that GBU is supporting through the One Member at a Time program. DonorsChoose enthusiastically describes its mission: “We make it easy for anyone to help a teacher in need, moving us closer to a nation where students in every community have the tools and experiences they need for a great education.”

GBU & Mothers Against Drunk Driving® (MADD)

New Regional Partnership & New Opportunities for NY, NJ and PA Members

GBU has become a 2023

Contributing Regional Sponsor of MADD NY|NJ|PA!

This expands a long-time relationship between GBU and MADD in the greater Pittsburgh area. MADD is also a new charity supported through GBU’s One Member at a Time program. To learn more please visit madd.org.

MADD’s mission is to end drunk driving, help fight drugged driving, support the victims of these violent crimes and prevent underage drinking. All funds raised locally stay in New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania to benefit MADD’s victim services, educational programs, law enforcement support and additional community activities.

As a crowdfunding platform, DonorsChoose vets all requests, purchases the supplies and sends them to the teacher once the funds have been raised. Donors receive thank you messages from the teacher.

Visit the DonorsChoose website (donorschoose.org), click “Find a classroom to support” and search by topics, teachers, schools and geographic locations.

GBU’s first corporate team of employees and family members (shown right and below) participated in Walk Like MADD Pittsburgh on May 7, 2023. They joined Team Jim, organized by member Jon Naser, and Team David, organized by member Pam Ondash. Collectively, GBU members raised $4,332, that grew to a total of $8,664 as part of their Give Back Group and GBU’s matched donations.

You might be surprised what a neighborhood teacher may need! We encourage you and your fellow GBU members to donate and help teachers and students in your community!

Pictures courtesy of DonorsChoose.

There are more Walk Like MADD events coming up! Visit walklikemadd.org and consider participating in one of these GBU-sponsored walks:

2023 Walk Like MADD Philadelphia

2023 Walk Like MADD Staten Island

2023 Walk Like MADD Westchester

2023 Walk Like MADD Capital Region Springs, NY

09/24/2023 Philadelphia Zoo

09/30/2023 Clove Lakes ParkStaten Island, NY

10/14/2023

10/15/2023

FDR State Park - Field 4 - Yorktown Heights, NY

Saratoga Performing Arts Center - Saratoga

If you submit your team as a Give Back Group, you can have the funds you raise matched by GBU!

Charles Simms, David Krainbucher and Maxwell Channells were the Butler team members. Charles will attend Duquesne University Honors College in the fall for marketing. David and Max will be high school seniors. After graduating, David plans to major in chemical engineering, and Max plans to major in multimedia then work in the TV or movie industry.

“I am so appreciative of GBU Life for sponsoring this fantastic opportunity for my students,” said Ms. Stephanie Peters, the Butler team’s coach, high school gifted coordinator and math teacher. “In the years I’ve been working with High Q, I have heard multiple conversations about trying to find a sponsor for this program. This year, I have heard nothing but positive things about the relationship with GBU Life. I think that GBU Life is a perfect sponsor for KDKA High Q, and I hope this continues.”

GBU presented Butler Senior High School with a $4,000 check and individual $1,000 checks to the students as awards for their achievement.

GBU employees donned crazy headgear on MADD Hat Day to increase awareness about the walk, sign up participants and raise some funds!

KDKA High Q brought to you by GBU Life

GBU spurred competition among students from 81 Pittsburgh area schools as the 2022-2023 sponsor of the quiz bowl “KDKA High Q brought to you by GBU Life!”

A team of three students from each school competed against other teams by answering trivia questions in a variety of subjects. Uniquely, the competitions are held virtually, with teams live streaming from their schools. During the second competition, the team from Butler Senior High School in Butler, PA, scored a perfect game by answering every question correctly. The team went on to win first place in the High Q finals!

(L to r) Jennifer Stockdale, GBU Director of Marketing and Community Engagement; Lesley Mann, GBU Senior Vice President/Chief Marketing Officer; David Krainbucher, Maxwell Channells and Charles Simms, Butler Senior High School students; Ray Petelin, High Q host; David Highfield and Mikey Hood, KDKA staff members.

Mark your calendars. Monday, October 23, 2023, will be the GBU Foundation's Inaugural Day of Giving!

The GBU Foundation is celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2023, as October 23, 1963, was GBU's official founding day!

The GBU Foundation will launch a Day of Giving campaign on October 23, 2023, to mark the occasion. ON THAT ONE DAY, we will encourage GBU's 70,000 members throughout the United States to unite and donate to increase the GBU Foundation's impact on their communities. You can support two GBU Foundation programs on the GBU Foundation Day of Giving.

The GBU Foundation Scholarships and Grants Program

Sixty years ago, GBU Life founded the GBU Foundation and its scholarship program to encourage and assist GBU members in furthering their education. GBU believes that education is a crucial tool for success in life and that all members deserve the opportunity to advance their education.

Your generosity will encourage GBU scholars to focus on academics, athletics and other formative activities instead of education costs. You will help GBU members nationwide realize their dreams to become doctors, teachers, architects, lawyers, artists and leaders in other professions in their communities.

The GBU Foundation Community Grants Program

In 2024, the GBU Foundation will launch a new initiative to award significant monetary grants to non-profit organizations enriching their communities in each of GBU's four Community Pillars— Wellness, Education, Charitable Giving and Hometown Hero Support.

When you and other members pool your resources for this program, your generosity will provide deserving community organizations, including those important to you, the opportunity to receive grants that may be larger than GBU's matching funds programs.

How Can I Give?

You will be able to give online or by check for the GBU Foundation Day of Giving. Watch for specific instructions in the next issue of The Reporter as well as in mailings, the GBU Member Community, GBU member emails and social media posts.

When you give $60 or more, you will become a member of the GBU Foundation 60th Anniversary Club and be eligible to receive GBU Foundation 60th Anniversary Club gifts as tokens of appreciation for your generosity. You can find out more about the Anniversary Club on page 64.

Community

Give More Back to Your With GBU Project Start-Up Funds

GBU members can apply for a $250 reimbursement of funds used for a community project! Team up with fellow GBU members for a reimbursement of up to $1,000 for your project. Here are some ideas of projects you can start in your community. Find out more at gbucares.org/give-back-groups.

Host a lemonade stand to raise money for your favorite non-profit.

Get together for a clean-up day at your favorite park.

Purchase supplies and create a crafty fundraiser!

Plant a community garden.

Create care packages for residents of a local senior home.

Build and stock a "little library" for your neighborhood.

Join the GBU Foundation

60th Anniversary Club

The GBU Foundation is celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2023, and we invite you to join the GBU Foundation 60th Anniversary Club!

When you give $60 or more, you will become a member of the GBU Foundation 60th Anniversary Club and will be eligible to receive special anniversary club gifts as tokens of our appreciation for your generosity.

If you donateYou will receive

*Available while supplies last. The GBU Foundation reserves the right to substitute or discontinue items. Items may vary from images shown. Items are not shown to scale.

Scan here or visit gbucares.org to donate or mail your donation to The GBU Foundation 4254 Saw Mill Run Blvd. Pittsburgh, PA 15227.

HELPING

THOSE WHO SERVE FOR US

GBU helps nearly 7,000 deployed military service members and veterans each year through our Operation Reach Out program. The program funds care packages and needed supplies for both groups through our partner organization Ope ration Troop Appreciation. GBU volunteers get together each quarter to pack hygiene, snack and entertainment kits to show our appreciation for our deployed military service members and our respect for our veterans in need.

You can help with this project by sponsoring a care package, volunteering for a packing day or simply sending a card with words of encouragement for us to include in a care package.

Here's how you can help

1 Send a card

Download

2 Donate

Donate top-requested items using Operation Troop Appreciation's Amazon wish list, or donate any amount to the project!

To donate, scan the above QR code, go to gbucares.org/donate or mail your donation to GBU Life

Attn: Operation Reach Out 4254 Saw Mill Run Blvd. Pittsburgh, PA 15227

3 Volunteer

Volunteer to help on one of our quarterly packing days. You can sign up for packing days at community.gbu.org/events.

Notes

from the Home Office

UPCOMING HOLIDAYS

The GBU Home Office will be closed on Monday, September 4, 2023 for the Labor Day holiday.

CHARITABLE DONATIONS

March 1, 2023-May 23, 2023

GBU FOUNDATION

Deborah Douglass

Kenneth Elliott

In honor of Ethan and Peyton Rihn; Xavier, Bailey and Zayvion Burns-Elliott

District 146-Johnstown, PA

District 510-Toledo, OH

In memory of Barbara L. Thomas, Helen T. Bihn, Jack T. Bloom, James W. Ebth, Karl Fiesel, Richard L. Danicke, Robert C. Geisert, Robert E. Dierker, Roland O. Foreman, Ruth L. Pendrey, Susan M. Fahle, and Therese R. Ghesquiere-Trame

District 2000-ULS

District 4000-Sokol USA

Milan S. Kovac

In memory of Milan Trnka

Jon Naser

Jon Naser

In honor of Judy Bickel

OPERATION REACH OUT & OTA

District 815-Dayton, OH

District 2000-ULS

District 4000-Sokol USA

Milan S. Kovac

Jon Naser

Ralph Wardle

SPRING 2023 LET'S GET WILD PUZZLE WINNER

GBU wishes to recognize the most recent fraternal puzzle contest winner.

Lucky $25 Amazon Gift Card Winner Andrew L. of Altoona, PA

Please remember: to be eligible for a fraternal prize and recognition in the fraternal puzzle drawings, the participant must be a GBU member who is 10, 11, 12, 13, or 14 years old.

For privacy purposes, only the first name, initial of last name, city and state of the participant will be listed.

SPRING 2023 LET'S GET WILD PUZZLE ANSWERS

1. TRUE—LETTER P

Ravens—They can mimic human sounds

2. FALSE—LETTER A

Bunnies—A baby bunny is called a kitten, not a bunbun

3. FALSE—LETTER N

Ostriches—They are the fastest runners in the bird family

4. TRUE—LETTER G

Squirrels—They can find their food when it is covered by snow

5. FALSE—LETTER O

Parrots—They live a long time, up to 100 years, not 150

6. TRUE—LETTER L

Bears—They can walk short distances on their hind legs

7. TRUE—LETTER i Hummingbirds—They cannot smell, but they have good vision

8. FALSE—LETTER N Lions—They do hunt in the rain—storms help them stay unseen and unheard from their prey

Answer to the puzzle: The Unusual Mammal is the Pangolin.

Answer to the bonus question: This animal is the only mammal known to have scales?

Reader Service Form

To obtain information on GBU products or member benefits, please check those 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, fill in the appropriate portion of this form. PLEASE PRINT.

PRODUCTS

Life Insurance

Select Choice Term Life Insurance Youth 3 Pay Life Insurance

Secure Whole Life Insurance

An nuities

Asset Guard Multi-Year Guaranteed Annuities

Flex Guard Preferred Flexible Premium Deferred Annuities

Flex Guard Single Premium Immediate Annuities

IRA options

Coverdell Education Savings Account

MEMBER BENEFITS

Discounts and Points Programs (Online Only)

VIP Perks! by Entertainment ® Optimity

Charitable Donation Programs

Give Back Groups

Birthday Match

Youth and Education Programs

One Hour at a Time

GBU Youth Leaders Program Scholarships/Grants

Team to Team Activity Sponsorships Sage Tuition Rewards ®

High School Freshman Grants

Virtual Member Benefit Programs

Kids‘ Night Fitness

Game Night Current Interest Podcast Series

Driver’s Safety Course ScriptSave ®

Language Learning Program ScriptSave ® for Pets

Newborn Child Benefit

Fraternal Puzzle Drawing Entry (members age 10–14)

My Summer Vacation Coloring Contest Entry (members age 3–9)

My Summer Vacation Photo Contest Entry

The Reporter

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Note: Those choosing to receive the digital Reporter may receive the paper edition when required by law.

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GBU Life

4254 Saw Mill Run Boulevard

Pittsburgh, PA 15227-3394

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CHARITABLE PROGRAMS

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Take the GBU 2023 Annual Member Survey!

This annual survey helps us develop and improve products, services and member benefits to help you love GBU Life even more. By taking the survey, not only will you be a part of our future development, but you could also be one of 10 lucky winners of a $250 Amazon gift card (1 winner) or a $100 Amazon gift card (9 winners).

You have until July 31 to complete the survey.

Go to inside.gbu.org/survey, or scan the QR code below to take the survey.