Forum Magazine - Fall 2018

2018

leaner

scholarship recipients

p. 17

Easy weekend getaway ideas p. 30

Gleaner introduces

p.12 Strategic Choice Indexed Annuity™

What Gleaner

p. 6

membership means

What do you love A

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U

T

Y

O

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Gleaner membership?

Gleaner Life members enjoy a wide array of perks, and we would like to know which is your favorite.

Every year, hundreds of members join us at familyfriendly events like our annual Safari to Kalahari and Family Day excursions, apply for college scholarships and take advantage of our Loyalty Bonus. We’re curious to know which benefit you appreciate the most.

Visit www.gleanerlife.org/members and tell us what you love about your Gleaner membership. As a thank-you for your feedback, you’ll be entered in a drawing for a cornhole game (design of your choice) if you email us before Dec. 14.

Thank you for being a valued Gleaner Life member!

Contents

Fall 2018

Features What Gleaner membership means

6

Learn all about the meaning of the Gleaner membership and the benefits of belonging.

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The importance of life insurance

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From securing your income to leaving an inheritance, this article will help you understand why life insurance should be included as part of your financial plan.

Gleaner introduces it first indexed annuity solution

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Learn how Strategic Choice Indexed Annuity™ can help you build a flexible retirement strategy.

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2018 Gleaner scholarship recipients

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Each year, the Gleaner Life Insurance Society Scholarship Foundation awards educational funding to promising scholars. Meet this year’s recipients.

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Easy weekend getaway ideas Are you considering an end-of-the-year vacation? Learn about some of the best destinations for weekends with family or getaways for couples.

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Congratulations, Millie W., the winner of Gleaner’s summer Forum Magazine giveaway. Read this issue closely for another chance to win with Gleaner’s giveaway contest.

@GleanerLife

30 Do you enjoy searching for Gleaner’s wheat stalk?

It's hidden in every issue of Forum Magazine. Having difficulty finding the wheat stalk in this issue? Look on Page 28 for the answer.

www.gleanerlife.org

Forum Magazine is made from soy-based ink products and is recyclable.

Make a small impact on conservation by recycling this publication or passing it on to a friend.

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FORUM

Contents

Fall 2018 / V. 123 / No. 4 Officers and Senior Management Kevin A. Marti, FSA, CLU, ChFC President and CEO

Jeffrey S. Patterson, FLMI

Senior Vice President, CFO, Secretary and Treasurer

D. Arell Chapman, CRISC

Vice President, Information Technology Deborah K. Elliott, SHRM-SCP, SPHR

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9

Vice President, Human Resources,

Community Engagement and Administration Anthony D. Golden, CLU, ChFC, RICP, FIC Vice President, Independent Agent Sales and Distribution

Barbara Janowski, RN Vice President, Insurance Operations and Chief Underwriter

Kaylene S. Warner, FLMI

Assistant Vice President, Finance and Controller Board of Directors

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Todd M. Warner | Frank Dick, Chairman Emeritus

News & reviews

Interests

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5

4

Photos from Family Days

32 50- and 75-year members

Donna K. Baker | Russell E. Cunningham Margaret M.S. Noe | Daniel R. Sutton

At a glance From the president

Terry L. Garner, Chair

Mark A. Wills, Vice Chair

Upcoming Events

34 Korinne’s Korner

Supreme Arbor Officers Jeffrey Price, Supreme Chief Gleaner

Dick Hadden, Supreme Vice Chief Gleaner Norma Garner, Supreme Chaplain

Linda Ruehrmund, Supreme Conductor Deborah Rydberg, Supreme Guard

35 Recipe File National Headquarters

33 Letters from members

36 Benny’s Page

Giving back 9

Apply for a Give and Grow project

22 Arbors in Action 25 Historical Highlights

5200 West U.S. Highway 223 P.O. Box 1894

Adrian, Michigan 49221-7894

p 517.263.2244 or 800.992.1894 f 517.265.7745

www.gleanerlife.org

forum@gleanerlife.org Hours Monday - Friday: 8 a.m. - 4:45 p.m. EST

The Forum Magazine is produced quarterly at Gleaner’s Home Office by Dustin Everden, Kassandra Gray, Chuck Monahan, Josh Nance and Julie Tison.

For questions regarding this publication, please email forum@gleanerlife.org.

Thoughts from the President Dear members: As summer gives way to fall, the days get shorter and the leaves begin turning beautiful colors. Labor Day is over, and the kids are back in school. Our fiscal year being a calendar year, our operating results begin to take clearer shape as well. For example, we’ve been paying out more member death claims than normal in 2018, impacting our bottom line. But we recognize that we are here to serve our members in just this way in their time of need!

If you have a child or grandchild who you’d like to become a Gleaner member and be eligible for a scholarship someday while protecting their insurability, we will soon offer our Just for Kids® plan online – look for more details in the next issue. Even better, you can always call the independent agent listed on the back of your Forum Magazine to help you complete the application process and understand the opportunity in more detail.

This year has been a good year so far for the Society at least in terms of growing our life insurance premiums significantly for the first time in many years. Our new whole life, term life and indexed universal life solutions were introduced in 2017, and our renewed emphasis on having a significant presence in the field (building agent relationships and sharing sales ideas) has paid off for the Society in 2018 — and we believe holds great promise for the future. We want to recognize Tony Golden, our new vice president of independent agent sales and distribution and for Gleaner Financial®, for his efforts building the team and leading the charge. See the article on the importance of life insurance on Pages 10-11.

We hope you enjoyed the Gleaner Family Days this summer — see the recap on Pages 4 and 5. A number of you attended the Gleaner Getaway trip in Washington, D.C., another great experience. We have our Kalahari Family Weekend early in November to finish out the calendar year of events.

Annuity sales have been slower than we had expected in 2018, as available investment yields remain stubbornly low, despite recent increases in the 10-year Treasury yield. We made some changes August 1 that appear to be helping our cause, and we have additional new annuity solutions that were introduced October 1 — our six-year multiyear guarantee annuity, MYGA6 (see Page 21), and our first-ever seven-year Strategic Choice Indexed Annuity™ (see Pages 12-15). In addition, we are changing our annuity internal exchange program in October to allow members to “carry over” their Loyalty Bonus/terminal dividend to their new annuity certificate, and we will allow exchanges to all our currently offered annuity solutions, as long as it is in the members’ best interest at the time of the exchange. So keep your eyes out for the MYGA6, Strategic Choice Indexed Annuity™, and of course, our Foundation 9 exchange options.

We have an important article regarding the benefits of your Gleaner membership on Page 6. One of those benefits for our younger members is the Gleaner scholarship program, which is highlighted on Page 17.

Scholarship applications for next year open Dec. 1. www.gleanerlife.org

Thank you for being a loyal Gleaner member and for those who participate in our community engagement activities in their local arbor, or through the new Give and Grow program, which we hope will encourage you to join an arbor nearby, or perhaps start an arbor in your own community!

We encourage you to participate and give back to your community to help lift up those in need. We also appreciate your efforts to help us grow our Gleaner membership through the sale of our life insurance and annuity solutions!

We look forward to seeing and hearing from our members in the coming months.

Blessings to you and your families for the coming Thanksgiving holiday.

Fraternally,

Kevin A. Marti President and CEO

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Gleaner at a

Thank you to everyone who joined us at this year’s Family Days and Gleaner Getaway Tour events.

We’re truly thankful for our family of members and look forward to seeing even more of you next year. Check out gleanerlife.org/familydays for information on 2019 events.

GLANCE

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Save the date for 2019 Family-Friendly Events March 2 | Spring Training Baseball, Florida March 3 | Yacht StarShip charter cruise, Florida March 30 | Detroit Pistons, Michigan June (TBD) | Cleveland Indians, Ohio June 21-23 | Mission Point Mackinac Island, Michigan June 29 | Six FlagsŽ, Illinois September (TBD) | Indianapolis Zoo, Indiana October 11-13 | 59th Biennial Convention at Kalahari (Ohio), celebrating Gleaner’s 125th birthday October 19 | Michigan Princess Riverboat, Michigan November (TBD) | Toledo Walleyes, Ohio Event dates are subject to change.

www.gleanerlife.org

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WHAT

LEANER MEMBERSHIP MEANS ...

Gleaner Life Insurance Society is made up of individuals from all walks of life, all with the same goals in mind. The not-for-profit fraternal benefit society is owned by these individuals.

This means that when you secure a life insurance or annuity certificate, you become a member. Gleaner’s purpose is to provide financial security so its members can live life fully. Member benefits are offered as an added perk. But did you know that your Gleaner membership can mean so much more?

When you join Gleaner, you become more than a member. You’re given a chance to support others and make an impact in your community. At Gleaner, we offer financial services and member benefits to help you grow, but we hope you will make time to help others grow, too. We hope you will be inspired to do something great.

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BELONG As a faith-based fraternal benefit society, we are guided by our common bond of benevolence, protection and fraternity. We support the values of faith, hard work, steadfast loyalty and a cooperative spirit rooted in our agricultural heritage. Since our founding in 1894, these beliefs have been kept at the forefront as we emphasize membership, security and community service. We carry out these principles guided and strengthened by our belief in God. All Gleaner members are united by this common bond, demonstrated by support for and commitment of our faith-based principles and values.

BENEFIT When you purchase a Gleaner financial product, you’re doing more than securing your future and that of your loved ones — you’re enjoying the benefits of membership. Gleaner members and their families enjoy a variety of benefits, including shopping discounts, scholarship opportunities and family-friendly events. View the full list of benefits online at www.gleanerlife.org/memberbenefits.

VOLUNTEER Our members offer a wealth of valuable skills to their communities. Whether volunteering with a Gleaner arbor or for a Give and Grow service project, members live out the fraternal spirit by helping those in need. Through these types of activities, members get to know other members.

Similarly, community members get a chance to meet our volunteers. Here at Gleaner, we are known for giving to the community. While volunteering is not required of the Gleaner membership, we certainly encourage members to volunteer and take part in opportunities to give back.

www.gleanerlife.org

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When you join Gleaner, you become more than a member.

Your membership can mean so much more.

Securing life insurance is about protecting your future. Don’t forget what it is you’re protecting. Look at the big picture once and a while and ask yourself: What is my story? Do I have a mission? What do I want my Gleaner membership to really be about? When we stop for a moment to reflect, oftentimes we realize that it can mean so much more.

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GIVEANDGROW It is more blessed to give than to receive.

Acts 20:35

G

leaner’s Give and Grow program provides benefit members with a chance to make an impact through charitable service projects.

Projects should include anything that improves the community and directly involves members and their volunteers to make a difference.

•

•

•

Gather a volunteer squad to beautify a local citizen’s home in need. Grant funds can be used to purchase flowers, mulch, a bird feeder or other items. Then have your team bring the necessary tools to get the job done.

Host a community dog wash. Use the grant funds to purchase kiddie pools and biodegradable dog shampoo, and be sure there is access to water.

Rally team members to sponsor a local preschool or day care and visit the location to do a project with the kids. Whether it’s reading books or providing an art lesson, grant funds can be used to purchase supplies for the activities. If there are leftover funds, ask the teachers if they need additional supplies for the classroom.

Think about a need in your community and how you and your volunteers can help, then apply. Projects are awarded to members age 12 and up who own a Gleaner life insurance or annuity certificate in our 13 licensed states*.

Gleaner gives: •

The freedom to choose how you want to give and grow.

•

A prefunded $250 Visa card for your project.

•

Branded T-shirts for your team of volunteers.

•

Free resources for promoting your project.

Learn more and apply online by logging in to the member portal at www.gleanerlife.org.

*Gleaner Life Insurance Society is licensed in AZ, FL, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MI, MO, NE, OH, TN and VA.

Secure your income. If you’re in the early stages of financial planning, you’re probably just now thinking about the future. Did you know you can set aside savings with life insurance? Putting protection in place will help you build financial security as you build your career, and the sooner you purchase a policy, the more affordable it will be.

Protect your family and loved ones. Do you support a spouse or children? Could you eventually have an adult to care for, such as a parent? The future of your loved ones is reliant on one thing — your legacy. Building financial security with life insurance is key in order to provide for the people you love most.

Leave an inheritance. Life’s expenses can be worrisome enough, and the last thing you want to leave with your family is another burden. Will one income be enough to provide a financial gift to your children and grandchildren? If the unexpected should happen, you want to know your loved ones will be taken care of.

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Insurance can be confusing. It’s hard to know what you really need or how soon you should put something in place. But it’s really quite simple: Life insurance should reflect life. As you go through the motions — driving a car, raising your children, learning something new, participating in a sport or adjusting to a new job — be sure to include life insurance as part of your plan.

Build financial security. You want everything for your family — and more. You want to provide your loved ones with a safety net so they’re financially secure. Life insurance can provide your children or grandchildren with a quality education, a down payment on their first home and much more. This is why it’s so important to secure additional coverage while your kids are still at home.

Bring peace of mind. If you’re facing a variety of long- and short-term goals, you may think that retirement is far away. It’s never too early to start planning for you and your loved ones. Securing life insurance today is more important than ever. Don’t let life pass you by before protecting the things that mean the most.

Visit us online at www.gleanerlife.org to learn more about life insurance solutions for every life stage. You can also contact your Gleaner agent, listed on the back of this publication.

www.gleanerlife.org

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Maximize your financial growth Gleaner introduces Strategic Choice Indexed Annuity™

On October 1, 2018, Gleaner Life introduced its first-ever indexed annuity. With Strategic Choice Indexed Annuity™, you can build a flexible retirement strategy, while enjoying both guaranteed growth and the potential for higher returns when the S&P 500® Index performs well.

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Benefits of an indexed annuity Growth:

Experience tax-deferred cash value accumulation with a greater opportunity for growth than a traditional fixed annuity certificate.

Safety:

The index-linked feature allows you to take advantage of the upside potential increases in the S&P 500® Index, subject to the index participation rate, while protecting you from losses if the index return is negative.

Flexibility:

You have the power to choose what works for you. Within the guidelines of the certificate, you can decide the premium amount, the timing or frequency of your planned premiums, the allocation of premiums to the fixed and/or indexed accounts, and the opportunity to begin receiving a fixed monthly income through a settlement option.

Income:

When you’re ready, you can turn the indexed annuity certificate into a settlement option, which is a steady stream of income, including an option for guaranteed income for life.

Protection:

If you should die unexpectedly before annuitizing (turning your certificate into steady income), your beneficiaries will receive the indexed annuity’s accumulated value as a death benefit.

Fixed and indexed accounts When you contribute premium to a Strategic Choice Indexed Annuity™ certificate, you allocate your premiums to fixed and indexed accounts. The fixed account functions like a traditional annuity, earning a competitive current interest rate with a minimum guarantee.

In the indexed accounts, growth is linked to the S&P 500® Index. Any newly contributed premium will enter a 12-month indexed segment on the 15th of the month. At the end of the yearlong segment, maturing funds receive an index interest credit, which is a declared percentage of the index’ growth (excluding dividends). This percentage is referred to as a participation rate. Higher participation rates are available for accounts with values over $10,000 and $100,000.

If the index results in a negative return, a guaranteed minimum floor rate of 0.25% still provides growth, protecting your certificate from losing value.

Surrender charge of 7 percent in year one, decreasing by 1 percent each year until zero. www.gleanerlife.org

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Solutions for every stage of life Strategic Choice Indexed Annuity™ will help you build assets as you build your career, ultimately providing a steady stream of retirement income. At every life stage, indexed annuities help you build flexible retirement strategies:

Just starting out

Growing families

If you’re running the risk of outliving your savings, the good news is that most everyone, whether single or married, is often well positioned to save for retirement.

If you’re facing a variety of long-term and short-term savings goals, you may think that retirement is far away.

It’s never too early to begin saving for retirement now.

After an initial deposit of $10,000, you can save for retirement starting at a minimum of $100 per month.

Your Strategic Choice: Unlike many indexed annuities, Strategic Choice Indexed Annuity™ allows for flexible premiums. You can contribute as much* as you want, as often as you want, subject to IRS maximum contribution limits for qualified plans. The indexed account option can provide greater potential for longterm growth, while its minimum guarantee of 0.25 percent eliminates the risk of losing cash value due to poor market performance.

Your Strategic Choice: Strategic Choice Indexed Annuity™ provides you and your family with cash value growth, while also limiting risk from market losses. Even more, you can choose how you want to contribute — whether it be on a regular basis or with a lump sum, like a 401(k) rollover or inheritance.

*Minimum additional premium of $100 a month.

Later on in life If you’re nearing or have already reached retirement, you may be wondering how you can turn a lifetime of savings into retirement income.

Your Strategic Choice: Strategic Choice Indexed Annuity™ allows you to allocate your retirement savings to create a lifetime of income. You can elect different payment options, including guaranteed income for life. That’s not all!

Strategic Choice Indexed Annuity™ can work for one or two people — so both you and your spouse can reap the benefits of turning a lifetime of savings into retirement income.

Interested in exchanging your existing Gleaner annuity for a Strategic Choice Indexed Annuity™?

You can roll over the fixed growth from your fixed deferred Gleaner annuity to an indexed annuity — even if you’re still in your surrender charge period! To learn more, contact your Gleaner agent, listed on the back of this publication.

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Want to learn more about Strategic Choice Indexed Annuity™?

Contact your Gleaner agent, listed on the back of this publication. If you don’t have a Gleaner agent, visit www.gleanerlife.org/agents to find one near you.

Gleaner Life Insurance Society is domiciled in Adrian, Michigan, and licensed in AZ, FL, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MI, MO, NE, OH, TN and VA. Strategic Choice Indexed Annuity™ Form No. ICC18-IFPDA7 with state-specific variations.

S&P 500® Index considerations ACCOUNT VALUE CERTIFICATE FEATURES AND BENEFITS - INDEX DISCLAIMERS

The “S&P 500®” is a product of S&P Dow Jones Indices LLC or its affiliates (“SPDJI”), and has been licensed for use by Gleaner Life Insurance Society (“Gleaner Life”). Standard & Poor’s® and S&P® are registered trademarks of Standard & Poor’s Financial Services LLC (“S&P”) and Dow Jones® is a registered trademark of Dow Jones Trademark Holdings LLC (“Dow Jones”). The trademarks have been licensed to SPDJI and have been sublicensed for use for certain purposes by Gleaner Life. This indexed annuity certificate (the “Certificate”) is not sponsored, endorsed, sold or promoted by SPDJI, Dow Jones, S&P, any of their respective affiliates (collectively, “S&P Dow Jones Indices”). S&P Dow Jones Indices make no representation or warranty, express or implied, to the Owner of the Certificate or any member of the public regarding the advisability of investing in securities generally or in the Certificate particularly or the ability of the S&P 500® to track general market performance. S&P Dow Jones Indices only relationship to Gleaner Life with respect to the S&P 500® is the licensing of the Index and certain trademarks, service marks and/or trade names of S&P Dow Jones Indices and/or its licensors. The S&P 500® is determined, composed and calculated by S&P Dow Jones Indices without regard to Gleaner Life or the Certificate. S&P Dow Jones Indices has no obligation to take the needs of Gleaner Life or the Owners of the Certificate into consideration in determining, composing or calculating the S&P 500®. S&P Dow Jones Indices is not responsible for and has not participated in the determination of the prices, and amount of the Certificate or the timing of the issuance or sale of the Certificate or in the determination or calculation of the equation by which the Certificate is to be converted into cash, surrendered or redeemed, as the case may be. S&P Dow Jones Indices has no obligation or liability in connection with the administration, marketing or trading of the Certificate. There is no assurance that investment products based on the S&P 500® will accurately track index performance or provide positive investment returns. S&P Dow Jones Indices LLC is not an investment advisor. Inclusion of a security within an index is not a recommendation by S&P Dow Jones Indices to buy, sell, or hold such security, nor is it considered to be investment advice.

S&P DOW JONES INDICES DOES NOT GUARANTEE THE ADEQUACY, ACCURACY, TIMELINESS AND/OR THE COMPLETENESS OF THE S&P 500® OR ANY DATA RELATED THERETO OR ANY COMMUNICATION, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO, ORAL OR WRITTEN COMMUNICATION (INCLUDING ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATIONS) WITH RESPECT THERETO. S&P DOW JONES INDICES SHALL NOT BE SUBJECT TO ANY DAMAGES OR LIABILITY FOR ANY ERRORS, OMISSIONS, OR DELAYS THEREIN. S&P DOW JONES INDICES MAKES NO EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES, AND EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ALL WARRANTIES, OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR USE OR AS TO RESULTS TO BE OBTAINED BY GLEANER LIFE, OWNERS OF THE CERTIFICATE, OR ANY OTHER PERSON OR ENTITY FROM THE USE OF THE S&P 500® OR WITH RESPECT TO ANY DATA RELATED THERETO. WITHOUT LIMITING ANY OF THE FOREGOING, IN NO EVENT WHATSOEVER SHALL S&P DOW JONES INDICES BE LIABLE FOR ANY INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, PUNITIVE, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO, LOSS OF PROFITS, TRADING LOSSES, LOST TIME OR GOODWILL, EVEN IF THEY HAVE BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES, WHETHER IN CONTRACT, TORT, STRICT LIABILITY, OR OTHERWISE. THERE ARE NO THIRD PARTY BENEFICIARIES OF ANY AGREEMENTS OR ARRANGEMENTS BETWEEN S&P DOW JONES INDICES AND GLEANER LIFE, OTHER THAN THE LICENSORS OF S&P DOW JONES INDICES.

www.gleanerlife.org

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LIAM AD

Congratulations

2018 Scholarship Recipients

t

e

y, h

Since 1980, the Gleaner Life Insurance Society Scholarship Foundation has awarded over $3.1 million in educational funding.

In 2018, Gleaner awarded 100 scholarships, providing $225,000 to tomorrow’s best and brightest students.

Gleaner scholarships are one of the many benefits available to our members. The Society values the importance of ongoing education and recognizes those members who seek to take their education to the next level. As the costs of higher education increase, we are proud to oer our members a helping hand by providing scholarships.

Scholarships are awarded on a competitive basis. There is no age restriction, and both traditional and nontraditional students are encouraged to apply. Applications for 2019 scholarships, which are completed entirely online, will be available at www.gleanerlife.org/scholarships beginning Dec. 1, 2018.

Congratulations to all of our 2018 scholarship recipients. We look forward to your future success!

Are you a past recipient of a Gleaner scholarship?

We love to hear and share stories about our past scholarship recipients. If a Gleaner scholarship helped you to take your education to the next level, please share your story by emailing forum@gleanerlife.org. www.gleanerlife.org

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Wyatt Amor

Joshua Aude

Jonathon Baker

Daniel Barker

Lincoln College of Technology

Capital University

Saginaw Valley State University

St. Clair Community College

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Culver, Indiana

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Hamilton, Ohio

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Saint Johns, Michigan

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Croswell, Michigan

Amanda Barnes

Brock Barton

Elizabeth Barwegen

Aaron Batke

Northwest State Community College

Fort Hays State University

Kalamazoo Valley College

Aquinas College

Frank & Shirley Dick Scholarship Award Liberty Center, Ohio

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Fairbury, Nebraska

Frank & Shirley Dick Scholarship Award Otsego, Michigan

Hunter Bell

Courtney Benschoter

Mason Benschoter

Conservatory of Theater Arts, Webster University

Baker College

The Ohio State University Agricultural Technical Institute

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Cedar, Michigan

Frank & Shirley Dick Family Scholarship Award Adrian, Michigan

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Wayne, Ohio

Leonard & Margaret Davis Memorial Scholarship Award Bowling Green, Ohio

Spencer Benson

Chester Arbor Scholarship Award Cardington, Ohio

Marion Technical College

Breanne Bergeon

Gage Bergman

Darlynn Best

Nicholas Biegel

Lourdes University

The University of Michigan

Bradley University

Trine University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award San Antonio, Texas

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Adrian, Michigan

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Coal City, Illinois

Charles & Margaret Banner Memorial Scholarship Award Hanna, Indiana

Savanah Bolser

Chloe Brittain

Reilly Burnetti

Shane Call

Northern Kentucky University

Trine University

University of Illinois-Urbana Champaign

The University of Toledo

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Walton, Kentucky

William & Mary Kleinhans Scholarship Award Wheeler, Michigan

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Libertyville, Illinois

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Lyons, Ohio

Madeline Camburn

Travis Carson

Kevin Carter

Justene Charlesworth

Central Michigan University

Trine University

Bradley University

University of St. Francis

Frank & Shirley Dick Scholarship Award Springport, Michigan

Charles & Margaret Banner Memorial Scholarship Award Clayton, Michigan

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Grand Blanc, Michigan

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Wanatah, Indiana

Caroline Ciuca

Daniel Ciuca

Ramsey Clark

Genella Clor

The Ohio State University

The Ohio State University

Frontier Community College

Central Michigan University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Plain City, Ohio

Charles & Margaret Banner Memorial Scholarship Award Plain City, Ohio

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Macedonia, Illinois

Greater Flint Area Arbor Scholarship Award Grand Blanc, Michigan

Alyssa Cobb

Casey Conrad

Austin Cox

Sarah Cox

Spring Arbor University

Wittenberg University

University of Toledo

Bowling Green State University

Frank & Shirley Dick Scholarship Award Grayling, Michigan

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Mount Gilead, Ohio

Leonard & Margaret Davis Memorial Scholarship Award Bowling Green, Ohio

Leonard & Margaret Davis Memorial Scholarship Award Bowling Green, Ohio

Justin Cruz

Nicole Demlow

Josiah DeNooyer

Caleb Dunlap

Ma

Vanderbilt University

Concordia University Wisconsin

Western Michigan University

University of Northwestern Ohio

Lour

Charles & Margaret Banner Memorial Scholarship Award Palatine, Illinois

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Mendota Heights, Minnesota

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Wyoming, Michigan

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Lima, Ohio

Frede Scho Perry

Robon Edwards Jr.

Eli Ernst

Nicholas Freeze

Lauren Fuller

Mo

Michigan Technological University

Purdue University

Central Michigan University

The University of Michigan

Valp

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Adrian, Michigan

Frank & Shirley Dick Scholarship Award Roanoke, Indiana

Frank & Shirley Dick Scholarship Award Weidman, Michigan

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Grand Rapids, Michigan

Frede Scho La Po

Ethan Goodchild

Eden Hackett

Veronica Hindelang

Cameron Hinman

Eliz

Adrian College

Northern Michigan University

University of Michigan - Flint

Trine University

India

Frank & Shirley Dick Family Scholarship Award Novi, Michigan

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Shepherd, Michigan

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Frankenmuth, Michigan

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Manitou Beach, Michigan

Frede Scho Wixo

Lily Homan

Josephine Horan

Shawn Jackson

Gabriele Kepling

Em

University of Toledo

University of Alabama

Bowling Green State University

The Ohio State University

Alma

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Toledo, Ohio

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Oak Forest, Illinois

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Cecil, Ohio

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award North Baltimore, Ohio

Floyd Scho Whe

Madelene Kish

Emily Kovach

Jessica LaFontaine

Daniel Lenig

Lourdes University

Capital University

The University of Findlay

Purdue University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Perrysburg, Ohio

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Olmsted Falls, Ohio

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Findlay, Ohio

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Rolling Prairie, Indiana

Morgan Lestinsky

Adam Lewallen

Hannah Loveless

Trent Luft

Valparaiso University

The University of Toledo

Aquinas College

Michigan Technological University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award La Porte, Indiana

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Wayne, Ohio

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Midland, Michigan

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Escanaba, Michigan

Elizabeth Lyon

Dylan Macha

Brian Matson

Alexis McCullough

Indiana Wesleyan University

Alma College

The University of Toledo

Concordia University Ann Arbor

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Wixom, Michigan

Charles & Margaret Banner Memorial Scholarship Award St. Louis, Michigan

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Paulding, Ohio

Linhart & Burg Memorial Scholarship Award Adrian, Michigan

Emily McDonald

Kaitlyn McDonald

Tommy McDonald

Alex McDowell

Alma College

Central Michigan University

Purdue University

Calvin College

Floyd Arbor Scholarship Award Wheeler, Michigan

Frank & Shirley Dick Scholarship Award Indianapolis, Indiana

Charles & Margaret Banner Memorial Scholarship Award Indianapolis, Indiana

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Holt, Michigan

Jacob McDowell

Joshua Miller

Ryan Mohr

Samantha Morse

Michigan State University

Cedarville University

University of Findlay

Johnson and Wales University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Holt, Michigan

Charles & Margaret Banner Memorial Scholarship Award Navarre, Ohio

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Defiance, Ohio

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Charlotte, North Carolina

Callie Motsinger

Brennan Mudd

Nicklas Nelson

Sabrina Nelson

Pensacola Christian College

Delta College

Northeastern University

Glen Oaks Community College

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award West Branch, Michigan

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Midland, Michigan

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Sleepy Hollow, Illinois

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Burr Oak, Michigan

Sophia Oster

Kenneth Paetow

Nicholas Palma

Rachel Price

Ohio Dominican University

Concordia University Nebraska

Youngstown State University

Lawrence Technological University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Fredericktown, Ohio

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Saint Louis, Missouri

Charles & Margaret Banner Memorial Scholarship Award Youngstown, Ohio

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Springboro, Ohio

Anna-Kate Ragan

Chandler Ramsey

Carrie Rapp

Brooke Ray

Hillsdale College

Sullivan University

Rend Lake College

Central Michigan University

John King Memorial Scholarship Award Toledo, Ohio

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Louisville, Kentucky

Frank & Shirley Dick Scholarship Award Dahlgren, Illinois

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Mecosta, Michigan

Anna Restivo

Dominic Restivo

Carter Rogers

Mattea Rogers

Butler University

United States Naval Academy

Spring Arbor University

Spring Arbor University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Plainfield, Indiana

Charles & Margaret Banner Memorial Scholarship Award Annapolis, Maryland

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Standish, Michigan

Frank & Shirley Dick Scholarship Award Standish, Michigan

Cole Salenbien

Cade Schafer

Taylor Schooley

Emily Snoek

United States Navy

University of Michigan

Ohio Northern University

Carnegie Mellon University

Dale Viers Memorial Scholarship Award Adrian, Michigan

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Big Rapids, Michigan

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Paulding, Ohio

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Kendall Souder

Cheyenne Stone

Delaney Sutton

Robert Taylor

West Liberty University

Siena Heights University

Olivet Nazarene University

Ohio Northern University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Ellettsville, Indiana

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Morenci, Michigan

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Lowell, Indiana

Charles & Margaret Banner Memorial Scholarship Award McComb, Ohio

Arby Thompson

Haley Truchan

Haley Trudell

Anna Vander Ho

Ashland University

Oakland University

Bay de Noc Community College

Oakland University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Galion, Ohio

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Grand Blanc, Michigan

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Rock, Michigan

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Morenci, Michigan

Catherine Voisin

Lauren Ward

Jared Weingartz

Kailey Weingartz

Hillsdale College

University of Iowa

Kettering University

University of Michigan-Flint

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award St. Johns, Michigan

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Bloomington, Illinois

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Kimball, Michigan

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Marysville, Michigan

Hear from former

scholarship recipients Did you graduate from college this year?

What was one of your favorite moments of college?

How did Gleaner Life’s award help you achieve success?

What degree did you pursue?

What’s next? Let us know what you plan to do now that college is over!

Chelsie S. recalls her favorite moment of college being the semester she spent abroad in France. There she took classes and traveled to different countries. It was an experience she never dreamed of having.

With Gleaner Life’s award, Chelsie was able to set herself up for the future. It allowed her to focus on school, obtain a degree in supply chain management and international business, and it assisted her in graduating debt-free.

Chelsea was also able to study abroad and prepare herself to interview and obtain several internships, which led to a full-time job offer with John Deere’s Supply Management Development program. It’s a 3-year full-time program where she will be placed in different areas of the company.

Chelsea is currently in Iowa at Harvester Works where she is working as a material coordinator.

Chris K. remembers his favorite college moment being a road trip to Provo, Utah. He went with 20 of his fellow engineers to compete in a design competition.

Along with some of the other scholarships Chris has received, the Gleaner Life award has allowed him to focus on school rather than trying to work while attending classes. He earned a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and has gone on to pursue a master’s degree in structural engineering. Once he completes his master’s, he hopes to work as a forensic consultant in the structural and architectural engineering field.

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Keaton Weingartz

Garrett Wolf

Kettering University

Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis

Charles & Margaret Banner Memorial Scholarship Award Marysville, Michigan

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Wanatah, Indiana

Michael S. considers the times when he was in leadership positions as his favorite college moments: president of Student Govement, editor-in-chief for the school paper and president of the Advertising Club. A few years later, he was fortunate enough to speak at graduation as former student body president. Speaking in front of several thousand people is the only college moment that still gives Michael goose bumps.

The Gleaner Life award has given Michael so much more than a scholarship. His former accounting professor, Dan Hunt, nominated him for the Community Service Award in 2014, which allowed Michael to meet many Gleaner members from Centre Township Arbor. He spent two years volunteering in northern Indiana, raising money for seniors, planting flowers – and more. The people he met, the experiences he lived and the leadership skills he developed have been more valuable than the money received.

In 2015, Michael graduated with a bachelor’s degree in business adminstration with a double major in advertising and marketing from Indiana University South Bend. He also earned an associates degree in business administration from Ivy Tech Community College.

Michael is currently the sales manager for a hospitality company, and a board member for the IU Alumni Association of St. Joseph County. He has always enjoyed community service and no matter where he is professionally, will always be communityminded – everything started with a scholarship from Gleaner. www.gleanerlife.org

Introducing Gleaner’s Foundation MYGA6 annuity Financial independence starts with a solid foundation.

With Foundation MYGA6, a new single-premium deferred annuity from Gleaner Life, you can watch your money grow tax-deferred with the power of compounding interest. The initial interest rate is guaranteed for six years, providing stability and peace of mind knowing that your money is growing at a reliable, competitive interest rate.

Current initial interest rates Initial premium:

Initial (six-year) interest rate:

$10,000 - $49,999.99

2.40%

$50,000 - $99,999.99

2.75%

$100,000 - $249,999.99

2.85%

$250,000 and above

3.00%

Product features •

Initial interest rate guaranteed for six years

•

Competitive current interest rate with a minimum guarantee of 1.50% after year six

•

Flexible withdrawals of up to 10% of the account value each year without a surrender charge1

•

Minimum initial premium of $10,000 and no subsequent premiums

To learn more about building a solid financial foundation with Foundation MYGA6, contact your Gleaner agent, listed on the back of this publication. If you don’t have a Gleaner agent, you can find one online at www.gleanerlife.org/agents.

Foundation MYGA6 Form No. ICC18-MYGA6 with state-specific variations. Gleaner Life Insurance Society is domiciled in Adrian, Michigan, and licensed in AZ, FL, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MI, MO, NE, OH, TN and VA. This ad is intended for informational purposes only.

It is not intended to recommend a specific product, nor is it intended to provide any legal or professional advice. For information on possible tax implications, you should consult with a legal or tax adviser. 1Withdrawals exceeding the annual 10 percent penalty-free amount are subject to a surrender charge of six percent in year one, decreasing by one percent each year until zero.

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www.gleanerlife.org

Madison Arbor (MI)

recognized local law enforcement with $5 Tim Hortons’ gift cards and American flags. Arbor members delivered the gifts to Lenawee County agencies, including Madison Township Department, the Michigan State Police division in Adrian, city of Adrian and Adrian Township police departments and the Lenawee County Sheriff ’s Department. “Protecting the legacy of the July Fourth holiday is a year-round task for law enforcement,” said Dawn Opsal, arbor secretary. “When reflecting on what Independence Day means, we can think of the rights we were afforded such as individual liberty, freedom, equality and choice. These rights are protected every day by law enforcement professionals.” www.gleanerlife.org

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Heart of Florida Arbor (FL) partnered with several local organizations — Mulberry

Community Service Center, Mulberry Ministerial Alliance and the Mulberry Chamber of Commerce — to distribute backpacks and school supplies to children in need. Over 300 community members attended the event. Snow cones, hot dogs and games added to the fun.

All photos from the activity are courtesy of Ashley Holstein Photography LLC.

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Buckeye City Arbor (OH) (pictured right) visited The

Buckeye Ranch to learn about My Place, a program designed to help kids attain life skills. Participants spend their days working on skills like bill-paying, cooking and cleaning. My Place participants must hold a job or be in school. Arbor members received a tour of the facility, which includes a common area, housing units and an outside area for activities and games. The arbor made a $1,000 donation to the organization. “We made the decision to give them this money because of the wonderful work they are doing with displaced youth in our community,” said Pamela Hale, arbor secretary.

“It was nice to know that such a place exists to help these displaced kids get a leg up in life.”

Historical Highlights Gleaner Life Insurance Society has a rich history steeped in tradition, though some practices of the fraternal benefit society have changed over the years. It’s fun to look back …

Recently, Gleaner received a donation from Sam Peterson, son of Alma Arbor members Harold and Arbelle Peterson. The collection included flags and spears that were used during Gleaner ceremonies and events.

The three flags were prominently displayed at arbor meetings, each representing a symbol of the order.

The sickle represents an honest occupation and is a reminder of the keen blade of Father Time, who eventually cuts us all down.

www.gleanerlife.org

The sheaf, an appropriate companion to the sickle, typifies Gleaner’s principal occupation and the fabric of our order. Each single straw in the sheaf is necessary to form a perfect whole, which becomes a thing of beauty and strength.

The hourglass symbolizes the flight of time and the certainty that we all will eventually pass away.

Harold and Arbelle Peterson, who became members in 1941, were each given 50-year pins before they passed away in 1991 and 1995. We are grateful for their years of service and want to thank the Peterson family for passing on a bit of Gleaner history.

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Gleoma Arbor (NE) donated a raffle basket for a local cancer event. The basket contained about $200 worth of items, including books, coloring books, colored pencils and candy. The event raised $24,000 for cancer research.

Fallen Timbers Arbor (OH) (pictured below) hosted

a benefit for the Food for Thought pantry in Toledo, Ohio, where community members enjoyed a free movie. Arbor members collected items like peanut butter and jelly for the pantry. Monetary donations totaling $1,000 were also given to the organization. Arbor secretary Jerel Fish spoke about Gleaner arbors, and Food for Thought’s volunteer coordinator Laura Shaffer shared information about the pantry’s work in the community. Following the movie, door prizes were raffled off for the kids.

Upcoming Events Gleaner’s 2018 Family Safari to Kalahari Nov. 9-11 | Sandusky, Ohio Registration is closed.

59th Biennial Convention at Kalahari Oct. 11-13, 2019 | Sandusky, Ohio Join us at Kalahari in 2019 for the 59th Biennial convention and to celebrate Gleaner’s 125th anniversary.

View the 2019 Family Days for Gleaner events on Pg. 5.

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Bowling Green Arbor (OH) worked at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church to host the Wednesday Night Live

dinner, a program that serves local families in need. Arbor members purchased items and prepared a boneless chicken tenderloin marinated with red wine vinegar and spices, salad, scalloped potatoes, green beans, fruit cocktail and many desserts. Over 118 meals were served. The arbor had help from church volunteers and Bowling Green State University students. “Most of the students were surprised to learn about Gleaner and the additional volunteer work that we do in the community,” said Leo Knox, arbor secretary. “It was especially rewarding to see them interact with the families that were there for the evening meal.”

Marion Arbor (MI) (pictured below) partnered with VFW Post 6015 and local Girl Scouts to plant flowers and a tree. Flowers were placed in big stone planters to beautify the grounds at the Marion Area Historical Museum. Members and volunteers also planted a maple tree near the VFW hall pavilion. Following the activity, everyone gathered at a local restaurant.

www.gleanerlife.org

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West Lockport Arbor (IL)

held a health information and Instant Pot cooking event. Arbor members and guests prepared a recipe that called for chicken thighs, brown rice, onions, carrots and mushroom seasoning. The ingredients were placed in an Instant Pot for 20 minutes, then served. The process took only 30 minutes from start to finish, and the delicious dish contained only 345 calories. The event was very successful, and everyone enjoyed the lesson and food.

Riley Creek Arbor (OH)

sponsored a community pool day, offering free admission to the first 200 people to arrive. The event was advertised through social media, a local news website and on signs posted throughout the community.

North Central Michigan Arbor (MI) participated at the

Beaverton Outdoor Education Summer Event, where members and volunteers assisted with games such as bowling and putt-putt golf.

Throughout the day, each student collected character points for using good manners, helping someone out, following instructions and more. Students with the most character points got to pick fun prizes. The arbor raised $300 to benefit the Beaverton Outdoor Education program.

Did you find the wheat stalk?

In this issue of Forum Magazine, the wheat stalk is hidden on Page 23, in the coffee table.

Crystal Lake Arbor (MI)

(pictured above and right) paid for 50 families to watch a movie at the Cherry Bowl Drive-In in Honor, Michigan. Pamphlets were handed out with information about Gleaner arbors. All who attended were pleasantly surprised by the gift and had a great time.

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Heritage Arbor (MI)

members partnered with students and staff from Davison’s Hahn Intermediate School and Lakeville Middle School to package and distribute seedlings for Arbor Day. Each school principal gave a brief history of Arbor Day and the significance of planting trees to help our environment. Students and staff were very appreciative. Between both schools, over 1,000 students and staff were in attendance.

www.gleanerlife.org

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WEEKEND ESCAPES With summer behind us and the holidays in sight, a vacation might not be on your mind.

But there’s no better time to plan a quick getaway to escape from the everyday stress of busy schedules and never-ending to-do lists. Options exist for families and couples alike. Here are some thoughts on how to sneak away for a quick, relaxing weekend.

FAMILY ESCAPES Indoor water parks | Let your children splash and slide away some of their pent-up energy at an indoor water park. These popular destinations can be found in several big cities, so there’s sure to be one within driving distance.

Train adventures | Children love trains, but this outdated mode of transportation is not always top of mind when considering weekend activities. Find a local station near you and check out scheduled events. Some offer daytime adventures, while others offer extended tours to popular destinations. Plan ahead for some fun Christmas-themed rides, too.

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State parks | Summer isn’t the only season to visit state parks.

Fall can be a perfect time of year to explore the outdoors and enjoy God’s beautiful creation.

Enjoy the fall foliage as you take nature walks and hikes with your family. In the evenings, relax by the fire sharing stories and enjoying s’mores. Hocking Hills State Park in Logan, Ohio, features several hiking trails that lead to cliffs, falls, gorges and caves. Plan your visit at parks.ohiodnr.gov/hockinghills.

If this destination is too far away, find a park nearby at www.stateparks.org.

Museum tours | Pick a city within four hours or so of home and look up museums that best match the interests of your family. You might find some specialty museums to entertain your family. The Air Zoo in Portage, Michigan, offers aircraft exhibits, rides and full-motion flight simulators for aspiring and amateur aviators alike. Want something bigger? Book a weekend to Chicago where you can pick from several large-scale museums, including the Field Museum of Natural History, Museum of Contemporary Art, Museum of Science and Industry and much more.

www.gleanerlife.org

COUPLES GETAWAYS Spas | What better way to relax than by visiting a spa? Enjoy facials, massages, manicures and so much more. Book a couples’ weekend and prepare for a rejuvenation experience to help you refocus. Several spa locations also include golf and other activities, so couples can plan the perfect amount of solitude and solidarity.

Cabins | Get in touch with nature while enjoying everyday luxuries by staying at a cabin retreat. Hike or fish by day and relax beside the fireplace by night. Many cabins also feature Jacuzzis and other luxuries to make these stays peaceful and relaxing. www.gleanerlife.org

Bed-and-Breakfasts | Plan your stay and prepare to enjoy the personalized attention and deep history that many hotels lack.

You may find that bed-andbreakfast rooms offer a better value along with their charm as each bedroom has its own unique character. Nestled in towns and cities throughout the country, your options are endless.

Beach getaways | Maybe you need more of an escape? Book a flight and enjoy a quieter-thannormal weekend at popular beach locations like the Outer Banks in North Carolina. You’ll be able to enjoy the usual attractions without

the crowds. Visitors can take in quiet beaches, horseback riding and water sports.

If your schedule and pocketbook allow, plan your fall weekend getaway and make unforgettable memories with the ones you love.

If you travel somewhere this fall, don’t forget to take Benny along!

We love to share the adventures Benny takes with our members.

Email your photos to forum@gleanerlife.org. Mini Bennys are provided with each new Just For Kids® certificate.

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50 yr.

75 yr.

50-year members

75-year members

Indiana

Florida

Michigan

Winnifred N. Lynch, Miami

Joanne L. Biehl, St. Louis

Laura A. Arimoto, Geneva

Karen R. Nichols, Clio

Mary Ann Claire, Watseka

Pamela L. Vallance, East Jordan

Indiana

Nebraska

Richard Woodlock, Fowler

Ohio

Francis E. Asher, Needham

Patricia Laskowski, LaPorte

George F. Faketty, Venice

Michael D. Allett, Elmira

Illinois

Troy L. Fear, Dowagiac

James W. Barnes, Paxton

Dana Noe, Grand Ledge

Patricia Hubly, Rockford

Beverly A. Weisler, East Jordan

Robert Engelmann, Fort Wayne

Patrick M. Kerres, La Vista

Barbara R. Stone, Columbus

Nicholas Johnson, Custar

Dean J. Cooper, New Carlisle Rita A. Gerst, Lowell

Joanna L. Fitch, Auburn

Ronald R. Singleton, Knox Michigan

Bruce Acker, Clio

Norma Lipscomb, Climax

Elizabeth A. Mowry, Battle Creek Sharon M. Sherman, Clarksville Ohio

Jerry J. Palmer, Napoleon

Nancy E. Morth, Columbus James L. Robison, Fremont Janice J. Rettig, Napoleon Sharon K. Mall, Toledo Lloyd Cook, Galion Virginia

Robert J. Milne, Fairfax 32

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Dear Gleaner Life,

Dear Gleaner Life,

I would like to thank Gleaner Life Insurance for buying my ducks this year at auction. The money from my ducks will go toward my laptop and books for college this year. I am going to Concordia University Ann Arbor this fall. I will be studying biology. I plan to become a large animal vet someday.

I greatly appreciate your time and support!

The Paulding FFA was able to send four students to the FFA Washington Leadership Conference in Washington, D.C., with your generous support of our students. During this weeklong leadership conference the students met FFA members from around the United States. They learned important leadership skills and made lasting friendships along the way.

It would not have been possible without your support of the Paulding FFA program. Thank you for giving to such a wonderful program that is helping to strengthen leadership in our community through our FFA members. Thank you again for all your support!

With all sincerity,

Sincerely,

4-H has given me many amazing opportunities to work with animals and people alike. I ask that you continue to support 4-H. Thank you once again and I hope that you have a great year!

Amanda Wetzel

www.gleanerlife.org

Shannon Hale Miah Rue Jennifer Stahl Kaylie Tressler Stacie Miller, Paulding FFA Advisor Forum Magazine \ Fall 2018 \

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Korinne’s Korner “Our love for God is seen in our love for others.”

This message was posted on a local church near our home.

In previous Forum articles, I have shared other wonderful messages that have spoken to me from this same church.

What a blessing to be able to read terrific sayings like this as I drive past. Driving always gives me time to think, maybe even find a solution for a problem or two, but in general, gives me time to just be STILL. So, when I read a phrase like the one stated above, I start thinking.

As members of a fraternal benefit society, we are all driven to help with the needs we see in our communities — where we can be of assistance to individuals and organizations. The Give and Grow program opens our generous outreach to others not currently active in Arbors. We have just concluded our regional summer Family Day events. It’s exciting to see Gleaner scholarship program awards given to well-deserving students to help defray tuition costs. It’s yet another opportunity where we can help others.

As much as these programs serve others, it’s not difficult for each of us to individually reach out in small, grateful acts of kindness to others in our daily lives. From helping seniors who just can’t reach the top shelf at the grocery to holding a door for a fellow shopper, from graciously letting another car enter the flow of traffic to returning a cart in the parking lot — you get the idea.

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I find that many times in my own experience, a smile and friendly greeting can initiate a pleasant response. We aren’t privy to each other’s journeys in this life, but sharing a smile can often work wonders.

While having dinner recently with neighbor friends, I made a cake to celebrate our frequent waitress’ admission to a dental assistant program at a local college. And, as a result of her advancement, our chances of seeing her on Monday nights are likely to diminish. She so appreciated our acknowledgments and heartfelt well wishes on her behalf — it left us all with warm hearts, too. No big gifts — just expressing our love for others. Our friends suggested I use the cake recipe for my next Forum article, which you will see on the next page.

On a side note, Kevin and I are going to make a donation to the local church as our expression of sincere thanks for their continued uplifting words enjoyed by many daily travelers along Route 223.

Our daughter suggested I also send a copy of the Forum Magazine to express gratitude to the church congregation for their community outreach.

May we each always remember: “Our love for God is seen in our love for others.”

ENJOY! Korinne Marti, Wife of Gleaner President and CEO Kevin Marti

www.gleanerlife.org

Korinne's Recipe

White Texas Sheet Cake Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour 2 cups sugar 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon baking soda 1 cup butter, cubed 1 cup water 2 large eggs ½ cup sour cream 1 teaspoon almond extract

Frosting: ½ cup butter, cubed ¼ cup 2% milk 4½ cups confectioners' sugar ½ teaspoon almond extract 1 cup chopped walnuts

DIRECTIONS: 1.

Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a 15-by-10-by-1-inch baking pan.

2.

In a large bowl, whisk the first five ingredients. In a small saucepan, combine the butter and water; bring just to a boil. Stir into flour mixture. In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, sour cream and almond extract until blended; add to flour mixture, whisking constantly.

3.

Transfer to prepared pan. Bake until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean, about 18-22 minutes. Cool on a wire rack for 20 minutes.

4.

For the frosting, combine the butter and milk in a large saucepan; bring just to a boil. Remove from heat; gradually stir in the confectioners' sugar and almond extract. Stir in walnuts. Spread over warm cake.

Makes 20 servings.

www.gleanerlife.org

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Hi, Kids!

Autumn is here, which means school is back in session.

Sometimes it can be hard returning to early mornings and routines, but remember, each school year is filled with new opportunities. Think about setting new goals, and see how many you can cross off the list before winter arrives.

Here are a few ideas. √ √ √ √ √ √

Rake leaves for a neighbor.

Ask your parents to help you collect donations for a local food bank.

Make friends with a new student.

Help your siblings with their homework.

Set an example for others by behaving in class.

Thank your teacher.

Try turning new goals into habits as you make your way through the year. Before you know it, you’ll be on a path to greatness!

Speaking of paths — see if you can complete this fun and challenging maze below.

I hope to see you all at Gleaner’s Family Safari to Kalahari in November.

Take care!

BENNY

The Benevolent Lion

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Building flexible retirement strategies Strategic Choice Indexed Annuity™ gives you the power to plan for retirement on your own terms. By allocating your annuity premiums to fixed and indexed accounts, you can maximize long-term growth without losing value when markets perform poorly. The index-linked feature allows you to take advantage of the upside potential increases in the index, subject to the participation rate, while protecting you from losses if the index return is negative.

• • • • •

Flexible contributions Potential for greater growth linked to an external index Competitive current interest rates for fixed allocations Surrender charge period of seven years1 No annual maintenance fees

To learn more about flexible retirement strategies with Strategic Choice Indexed Annuity™, contact your Gleaner agent, listed on the back of this publication. If you don’t have a Gleaner agent, you can find one online at www.gleanerlife.org/agents.

Strategic Choice Indexed Annuity™ Form No. ICC18-IFPDA7 with state-specific variations. Gleaner Life Insurance Society is domiciled in Adrian, Michigan, and licensed in AZ, FL, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MI, MO, NE, OH, TN and VA. This ad is intended for informational purposes only. It is not intended to recommend a specific product, nor is it intended to provide any legal or professional advice. For information on possible tax implications, you should consult with a legal or tax adviser. 1Surrender charge of seven percent in year one, decreasing by one percent each year until zero.

www.gleanerlife.org

www.gleanerlife.org

5200 West U.S. Highway 223 P.O. Box 1894, Adrian, MI 49221 p 800.992.1894 | f 517.265.7745 Forum Magazine \ Fall 2018 \

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Nonprofit Organization U.S. POSTAGE PAID BOLINGBROOK, IL PERMIT NO. 594 5200 West U.S. Highway 223, P.O. Box 1894 Adrian, Michigan 49221-7894

Visit www.gleanerlife.org/members and tell us what you love about your Gleaner membership. As a thank-you for your feedback, you’ll be entered in a drawing for a cornhole game (design of your choice) if you email us before Dec. 14.

Thank you for being a valued Gleaner Life member!