Forum Magazine - Fall 2017

www.gleanerlife.org

Forum Magazine \ Fall 2017 \

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Safeguard

your season

Term life insurance offers affordable financial security for today while providing options for tomorrow’s needs. As you take in fall’s colorful beauty, consider the array of financial security options provided by Gleaner Life Term Solutions Plus.

Security for your diverse needs Term life insurance offers protection for shorter-term needs, like a mortgage, a child’s education or outstanding debt.

By providing period-specific coverage at the lowest cost, Gleaner’s term life solutions allow you to rest easy knowing that your family will be financially secure should the worst happen.

Premium choices with guarantee options Some of Gleaner’s term life solutions feature a choice between a 10-year and a full premium guarantee*. These competitive rate options make life insurance affordable for every financial plan.

Riders to customize your term life plan Our wide range of term life riders allows you to build a plan that works for your unique needs. You can protect your family with the simplicity of one premium, purchase multiple certificates with only one certificate fee and even provide your spouse and children with future insurability options. Ask your agent about available Gleaner Life Term Solutions Plus riders.

Premium credit when you convert to permanent life Every Gleaner Life Term Solution features a Conversion Option, allowing you to transition from term to permanent life insurance as your needs change. During certain points in the life of your plan, Gleaner will even apply a portion of recent premiums to your new whole or universal life certificate. Ask your agent for more details on Gleaner’s Term Conversion Credit.

To learn more about Gleaner Life Term Solutions Plus, contact your Gleaner agent, listed on the back of this publication, or find an agent online at www.gleanerlife.org/agents.

www.gleanerlife.org

Gleaner Life Insurance Society is domiciled in Adrian, Michigan, and licensed in AZ, FL, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MI, MO, NE, OH, TN & VA. Gleaner Life Term Solutions Plus form numbers ICC17-FGTERM (full guarantee) and ICC17LGTERM (10-year guarantee) with state-specific variations. 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. *Full guarantee unavailable with solutions utilizing the Other Insured Rider and Children’s Term Life Rider.

Contents Fall 2017

5

10-17

Features 5 How do you plan to

Give and Grow?

Read our top five ideas for Give and Grow projects.

Apply for a grant of your own on the member portal.

10 Meet 2017 Gleaner

Scholarship recipients

E ach year, the Gleaner Life Insurance Society Scholarship Foundation awards educational funding to promising scholars.

Meet this year’s recipients.

16 Preparing your high

At a glance 26 A vibrant harvest

News & reviews

in Michigan

3

From the president

ichigan is renowned for its M autumn beauty. Read more about the flavorful fruits and vegetables that are in season in the Mitten.

4

Photos from Family Days

6

omplete your child’s coverage with C 10-year pay

24

50- and 75-year members

24

Letters from members

28 Financial literacy: Face

amount and cash value

Do you know the difference between your permanent life insurance certificate’s face amount and its cash value? This issue’s financial literacy article explains how your whole or universal life certificate works for you.

school student for college

Learn what you can do each year of high school to prepare your student for success at college.

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 22 for the answer. www.gleanerlife.org

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Giving back 8 Fraternalist of the Year: Kathleen Vroman 9 Fraternal Agent of the Year: Gary Reese 18

Arbors in action

Interests 22

Upcoming Gleaner events

25

Order children’s books

30

Recipe File

31

Korinne’s Korner

32

Benny’s page

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.

Forum Magazine \ Fall 2017 \

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FORUM Fall 2017 / V. 122 / No. 4 Officers and Senior Management Kevin A. Marti, FSA, CLU, ChFC President and CEO

Jeffrey S. Patterson, FLMI

Senior Vice President, Finance and Insurance Operations

Daniel L. Gordon, FICF, CRPCÂŽ

Senior Vice President, Distribution and Community Engagement

D. Arell Chapman, CRISC

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

Human Resources and Administration Grier C. Edwards, MBA, FIC

Assistant Vice President, Distribution and Marketing Michelle L. Horn, ALMI

Assistant Vice President, Community Engagement Kaylene S. Warner, FLMI

Assistant Vice President, Finance and Controller Board of Directors Suann D. Hammersmith, Chair Terry L. Garner, Vice Chair

Donna K. Baker | Margaret M.S. Noe Daniel R. Sutton | Todd M. Warner

Mark A. Wills | Frank Dick, Chairman Emeritus

Follow us on social media for all the latest news and happenings!

Supreme Arbor Officers Connie Bland, Supreme Chief Gleaner Jeff Price, Supreme Vice Chief Gleaner Dick Hadden, Supreme Chaplain

Norma Garner, Supreme Conductor

Linda Ruehrmund, Supreme Guard National Headquarters 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 Off ice by Grier Edwards, Dustin Everden, Kassandra Gray, Daniel Gordon,

@GleanerLife

Chuck Monahan, Sarah Symington and Julie Tison.

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

Thoughts from the president Dear members: We hope that you and your family had a wonderful and safe summer. The kids and grandkids are back in school — perhaps you are heaving a big sigh of relief !

Here's one of the sayings on our refrigerator: “Let us be grateful to people who make us happy; they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom.”

— Marcel Proust I’m especially grateful to my family for helping me celebrate my 60th birthday with an extended visit at our lake house in early July and for my and Korinne's 38th wedding anniversary in August.

My gratitude also extends to the celebration in June of my fifth anniversary as your president and CEO, plus the July introduction of our new whole life and term life financial solutions for protecting you and your family. These very timely financial solutions were actually launched on my 60th birthday. The dedication of our Home Office staff in meeting the tight time frame to give me such a wonderful birthday gift was amazing to behold. The team has set another aggressive goal to introduce our first-ever indexed universal life solution later this year. Wish us well as we build the financial solutions needed for our future growth and continued success!

We are also extremely grateful for our 2017 Fraternalist of the Year Kathleen Vroman and 2017 Fraternal Agent of the Year Gary Reese. Read about their accomplishments on Pages 8 and 9. It is one of my distinct and highest honors to be involved in recognizing two of our best “gardeners,” whom I’ve been fortunate to meet, know and work with since joining the Society in 2012. Congratulations, Kathleen and Gary!

www.gleanerlife.org

I also have the esteemed honor of congratulating our 2017 Gleaner scholarship recipients. This year, we awarded scholarships totaling $225,000 to 100 recipients. Learn more about these scholars on Pages 10-15.

At the 58th Biennial Convention, I will be reporting on our continued good operating results in 2017. We are in a much stronger financial position than we were five years ago.

I will close with a quote from the great baseball pitcher Satchel Paige, who defied conventional wisdom about how old one could be and still pitch in the major leagues: “How old would you be if you didn’t know how old you are?”

I would say, gratefully, no more than 49. What would you say?

Fraternally,

Kevin A. Marti President and CEO

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20 Memories from 17 Family Days

Save the date for 2018 Family Days: March 4, 2018 | StarShip Yacht, Florida

March 2018 (TBA) | Spring Training Baseball, Florida June 30, 2018 | Six Flags, Illinois July 14, 2018 | Toledo Zoo, Ohio July 28, 2018 | Michigan's Adventure, Michigan August 2018 (TBA) | Detroit Tigers, Michigan September 22, 2018 | Fair Oaks Farm, Indiana October 6, 2018 | Gleaner Day, Michigan November 9-11, 2018 | Kalahari, Ohio Event dates are subject to change

Thank you to everyone who joined us at one of our Family Day events this year! We’re truly thankful for our family of members and we look forward to seeing even more of you next year. Check www.gleanerlife.org/familydays for updates on 2018 events.

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Top 5 ways to use a GIVE AND GROW GRANT this fall and winter Through giving, we don’t just make the world a better place. We become better people. Gleaner now offers $250 Give and Grow project grants to members throughout our 13 licensed states. As fall comes to a close and winter sets in, here are our top five ways to use a Give and Grow grant:

5) Hold a bake sale. Baking ingredients are affordable. With $250, you can make a big impact and easily double that money for a donation to an organization or a family in need. If you don’t have a church or community center nearby, consider taking a space at a farmers market. Gather a handful of your baking pals, pull together your best recipes and apply for a grant today.

4) O rganize an autumn rake-and-run. Contact your local department on aging for a list of senior citizens who need help with leaf removal. You can use your $250 grant to purchase rakes and trash bags. You should have enough left over to provide cider and doughnuts to your volunteers and the seniors.

3) P urchase Thanksgiving meal baskets. Many communities help out those less fortunate by providing meal kits for major holidays like Christmas and Thanksgiving. Contact local social services agencies for a list of those who may be in need of a holiday meal. Shop at bulk food stores to maximize the number of baskets you can provide.

2) H old a winter coat and mitten drive. You can use your Give and Grow funds to set up collection boxes in your community, or you can purchase donation items directly. If you ask for donations, you’ll collect more than you would if you were only using your grant.

1) P urchase Christmas gifts for women and children in shelters. Shelters often have wish list items for their residents. Coordinate with a local shelter to provide holiday joy to those who need it most. Try to incorporate as much as you can from the list. Shelters are efficient at identifying their needs and those of their residents.

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.

Gleaner members ages 12 and above can apply for a $250 grant through our new Give and Grow program.

Gleaner awards eight grants each month to members in our 13 licensed states. Learn more and apply online at www.gleanerlife.org/giveandgrow. www.gleanerlife.org

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Give the gift that builds for a Complete your child’s life insurance coverage with 10-year pay whole life insurance.

Since Gleaner’s earliest days, the Society has advocated for children’s life insurance coverage (check out our list of 75-year members on Page 24, most of whom became Gleaner members as children). Our innovative children’s term life solution, Just For Kids®, has provided children with financial security and future insurability for decades.

But did you know that there’s an affordable way to build permanent, cash value insurance over the course of your son or daughter’s childhood?

With Secure Life Plus’ 10-year pay option, you can build whole life coverage over the span of a single decade. As your child moves from training wheels to driver’s education, you can provide him or her with life insurance coverage that will remain in force for the rest of his or her life, building guaranteed cash value through the years. Even more, premiums are only payable for the first 10 years of the certificate’s life, leaving permanent whole life insurance in place for a lifetime.1 Most whole life insurance plans feature premiums that are payable until the insured reaches an advanced age, like 100. Ten-year pay only requires premium installments for the first decade of the certificate’s life. Once the 10-year payment period is over, neither you nor your child will ever have to pay a subsequent premium to keep the certificate funded. That means your child will have permanent life insurance for the rest of his or her life1 without having to pay an extra dime.

The cash value established during the 10-year payment period will also continue to grow as your child grows.

When the Society performs well, your child’s certificate can be awarded dividends, most commonly in the form of additional life insurance.

Ten-year pay life insurance can make an excellent graduation gift for your child or grandchild. If you purchase a face amount of $50,000 at age 7, the certificate would be paid up in its entirety by the time the child graduates high school, at an affordable rate of $57.29 per month: 6

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Age 7 male, monthly premiums, $50k face amount: $57.29 Guaranteed cash value at end of 10-year pay period (age 17): $4,109.50 Non-guaranteed cash value at end of 10-year period (age 17): $4,136.70 Guaranteed cash value after 30 years (age 37): $8,540.50 Non-guaranteed cash value after 30 years (age 37): $8,912.87 Guaranteed cash value after 60 years (age 67): $24,411.50 Non-guaranteed cash value after 60 years (age 67): $28,359.31 Guaranteed minimum death benefit in all years: $50,000 Non-guaranteed death benefit at age 67: $57,735.00 Later in life, your child can purchase additional coverage at certain ages and major life events, like marriage or childbirth, without a medical exam. He or she can also have early access to a portion of the death benefit in case of chronic, critical or terminal illness.2 Secure Life Plus’ 10-year pay option is the perfect companion for Just For Kids® term life coverage. Just For Kids® provides insurability, the gift that can last for a lifetime. Secure Life Plus provides the gift that can grow for a lifetime: permanent cash value life insurance. To learn more about the benefits of children’s whole life, contact your Gleaner agent listed on the back of this publication.

Don’t have a Gleaner agent? Find one online at www.gleanerlife.org/agents.

Secure Life Plus certificates mature at age 121.

Living Benefit Riders available based on underwriting at certificate issue.

1 2

Secure Life Plus form number ICC17-WL with state-specific variations.

This article 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.

www.gleanerlife.org

It’s Time to Get Financially Fit

‘‘ A

s a racecar driver and athlete, being fit is important to me. But fitness extends to all parts of your life, including your finances.

And when it comes to being financially fit, getting life insurance is key.

The way I look at it, it comes down to self worth and whether you think you and your family are worth protecting financially. I think you are.

‘‘

If you don’t know where to start with getting life insurance, ask for help.

Just don’t procrastinate.

It’s time to get it done.

—DANICA PATRICK

professional race car driver and spokesperson for Life Insurance Awareness Month

Life Happens does not endorse any insurance company, product or advisor. Danica Patrick is the national spokesperson for Life Insurance Awareness Month 2017, and her services were retained by Life Happens.

Life Happens 2017. All rights reserved. © www.gleanerlife.org

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Giving with a helping hand 2017 Fraternalist of the Year, Kathleen Vroman, impacts every generation Kathleen is instrumental in leading arbor projects. She gives time to youth, senior citizens and arbor members, working to guide, mentor and assist everyone in every way.

Her leadership skills and hands-on approach make all feel welcome.

Kathleen spends much of her time engaging with youth groups, and she contributes annually to the arbor’s youth activity, where she gets to know each and every participant on a first-name basis.

If Kathleen Vroman has one thing firmly in focus, it’s giving.

Devoting time to the young and the old, to her local Gleaner arbor and the community, Kathleen is committed to helping others. Gleaner is taking this time to recognize Kathleen’s leadership qualities and dedicated volunteer efforts.

As Maple City Arbor president since 2014, vice president from 2012 to 2014 and a longtime Gleaner member, Kathleen has contributed substantially to her community and the Gleaner family. Among her many accolades, she has organized arbor environmental projects, healthy lifestyle events at the local Adrian Senior Center (tai chi and Zumba) and community volunteer dinners.

For Gleaner’s biennial convention, Kathleen has served as delegate and teller committee member, and she organizes the arbor’s fill-thetote charity donation. She has also served as chair for the arbor’s annual Flag Day booth at Gleaner’s Home Office, the annual free Thanksgiving luncheon at the Adrian Senior Center and for the Lenawee Humane Society’s annual Walk ’N Wag. 8

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“I’m proud to say I’m a member of Gleaner and the Maple City Arbor,” said Kathleen. “It’s wonderful because you get to do so many nice things in the community. And the gratitude is unbelievable when you do it.”

Outside of the arbor, Kathleen donates time to the Habitat for Humanity Great Pasty Project.

She volunteered for three years at the Share the Warmth shelter in Adrian, Michigan, and from 2011 to 2015 with special education youth at the Lenawee Intermediate School District. Equally focused on community health, Kathleen raises funds and walks in the annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s, and she generously transports neighbors and friends to the doctor when needing care. She is past president of the Beta Sigma Phi Michigan Torchbearer Iota Chapter, where she served for two years.

As a volunteer for the local school district, Kathleen participates in the Lunch Buddy program. Mentoring one student every week, she eats lunch and visits with the child.

The kids look forward to sharing time with her. “Alexander was very

lucky to have her volunteer at our school,” said Jocelyn Stintzi, parent community coordinator at Alexander Elementary School in Adrian.

At First Presbyterian Church in Adrian, Kathleen volunteers one day a week with the Logos children’s ministry program. She assists with church projects like Meals on Wheels, doing laundry for the Share the Warmth homeless shelter and cooking for funeral dinners.

She also bakes pies for the church’s musical jam sessions and assists a young special-needs woman so she can attend church each week.

Another way Kathleen serves her community is by helping seniors.

She is a vital member and volunteer at the Adrian Senior Center, where she has played wind chimes for two years. For seven years, she was a member of the Adrian Senior Line Dance Troupe, which toured local nursing homes to entertain residents.

“A super volunteer in so many ways. One of the first to be a helping hand,” said Frank Dick, chairman emeritus of Gleaner Life Insurance Society. “Kathleen has a most positive attitude.”

“Years ago, I read a quote that said, ‘You can’t do everything, but you can do something,’” said Kathleen, whose commitment to all generations greatly impacts the community.

Gleaner proudly recognizes Kathleen Vroman as the 2017 Fraternalist of the Year.

www.gleanerlife.org

Reese named Fraternal Agent of the Year Investing in the well-being of his clients has been the driving force behind Gary Reese’s profession since he started in the financial industry in 1987.

Gary’s tag word, “parakletos,” means “one called alongside to help.” It is the model behind how he runs his business and how he lives. “This concept is the essence of what motivates us as a firm,” he said. “We feel called to come alongside people and help them reach their goals. This leads us to a relationship-based model as opposed to a transactional, or selling, model.”

It’s no surprise that in addition to serving his community through professional financial advice, he serves as president of Riley Creek Arbor (OH). “As my staff and I learned about the arbor system and how it returns money and goodwill to the communities that Gleaner serves, we recognized the opportunities to serve others in a multitude of ways,” Gary said. “Taking the fundraising aspect out of community service and simply allowing members to serve is huge with us.”

He has helped organize many activities in his community, including bingo for people with disabilities and elderly residents, barbecues with patriotic themes and marches for the Memorial Day Parade in Bluffton, Ohio. He also helped fund 4-H projects and plan a community volunteer recognition event that Riley Creek Arbor hosted in conjunction with the Bluffton Area Chamber of Commerce.

“Recognizing community members who give sacrificially to various organizations is very satisfying,” Gary said.

Gary’s service-minded outlook made him an obvious choice for Gleaner’s 2017 Fraternal Agent of the Year.

www.gleanerlife.org

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CONGRATULATIONS

2017 Scholarship Recipients Since 1980, the Gleaner Life Insurance Society Scholarship Foundation has awarded over $2.8 million in educational funding.

In 2017, 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 offer 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 2018 scholarships, which are completed entirely online, will be available at gleanerlife.org/scholarships beginning Nov. 1, 2017.

Congratulations to all of our 2017 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 of scholarship recipients who we’ve supported in the past. If a Gleaner scholarship has helped you to take your education to the next level, please share your story by emailing forum@gleanerlife.org.

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\ Fall 2017 \ Forum Magazine

www.gleanerlife.org

Sara Avery

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Rudolph, Ohio Owens Community College

Sarah Bartels

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Vassar, Michigan Saginaw Valley State University

Colton Battin

Charles & Margaret Banner Memorial Scholarship Award Grand Rapids, Ohio Bowling Green State University

Stephen Bean

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Glen Ellyn, Illinois The University of Illinois

Austin Belkiewitz Frank and Shirley Dick Scholarship Award La Porte, Indiana Purdue University

Megan Bell

Matthew Billette

Christina Brancel

Brittany Brugger

Tanner Burkett

Sara Carder

Julia Chapman

Megan Cleveland

Alayna Cobb

Chad Cocco

Lucas Conner

John Coote

Kelsie Crites

Emily Crouch

Zachary Cunningham

Frank and Shirley Dick Scholarship Award Frazeysburg, Ohio The Ohio State University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Ney, Ohio Manchester University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Galion, Ohio The University of Cincinnati

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Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Auburn, Michigan Michigan State University

Charles & Margaret Banner Memorial Scholarship Award Eaton Rapids, Michigan The University of Michigan

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Mount Morris, Michigan Mott Community College

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Painesville, Ohio Case Western Reserve University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Green Springs, Ohio Mount Carmel College of Nursing

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Ney, Ohio The University of Findlay

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Elmore, Ohio The University of Toledo

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Grayling, Michigan Spring Arbor University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Lowell, Indiana Indiana State University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Ida, Michigan Monroe County Community College

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Hershey, Pennsylvania Notre Dame University

Charles & Margaret Banner Memorial Scholarship Award Newport, Ohio Capital University

Forum Magazine \ Fall 2017 \

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Alyssa Dail

Kaylin Davis

Kristyn DeNooyer

Danielle Dross

Ellen Durling

Madysen Eady

Aaron Evans

Spencer Fisher

Kaitlyn Flannigan

Jakob Fox

Mitchell Gasche

Gracie Goucher

Sarah Green

Luke Hagemeyer

Jasmine Harper

Carter Hemgesberg

Brooke Henning

Delaney Henry

Paige Hoffman

Alayna Holifield

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Adrian, Michigan Siena Heights University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Otter Lake, Michigan Kansas State University

Ellsworth and Mary Stout Scholarship Award Saline, Michigan The University of Michigan

Charles & Margaret Banner Memorial Scholarship Award New Lothrop, Michigan Delta College

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Charles & Margaret Banner Memorial Scholarship Award Ithaca, Michigan Baker College of Owosso

Frank and Shirley Dick Scholarship Award Edison, Ohio The Ohio State University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Wynne, Arkansas College of the Ozarks

James & Suann Hammersmith Scholarship Award Blissfield, Michigan Grand Valley State University

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Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Wyoming, Michigan Kuyper College

South Fairfield Arbor Scholarship Award Blissfield, Michigan Michigan State University

Charles & Margaret Banner Memorial Scholarship Award Midland, Michigan Michigan State University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Adrian, Michigan The University of Toledo

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Fort Calhoun, Nebraska Creighton University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award McLeansboro, Illinois Kaskaskia College

Leonard and Margaret Davis Scholarship Award Bowling Green, Ohio Bowling Green State University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Weston, Ohio Bowling Green State University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Perry, Michigan Taylor University

Greater Flint Area Arbor Scholarship Award Birch Run, Michigan Wayne State University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Farwell, Michigan Spring Arbor University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award La Porte, Indiana Purdue University West Lafayette

www.gleanerlife.org

Jacob Huston

Aidan Hyland-Wood

Jaclyn Marie Juergens

Nadia Kerman

Madison Kregel

Katelin Kreinbrink

Brent LaHa

Kylee Lestinsky

Kole Loehmer

Caitlin Luck

Jordan Magers

Abigail McCullough

Estee Miller

Janelle Mitzner

Riley Moody

Madisen Morlock

Sarah Mowbray

Erin Murray

Nicolette Nelson

Alyssa Noe

Dale Viers Memorial Scholarship Award Adrian, Michigan Trine University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Findlay, Ohio The Ohio State University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Tiffin, Ohio The University of Toledo

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Pemberville, Ohio The Ohio State University

www.gleanerlife.org

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Fredericksburg, Virginia James Madison University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Homer Glen, Illinois Grand Valley State University

Frank and Shirley Dick Scholarship Award Adrian, Michigan Eastern Michigan University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Kawkawlin, Michigan Saginaw Valley State University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Luckey, Ohio Bowling Green State University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award La Porte, Indiana Purdue University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Oakwood, Ohio Bowling Green State University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Holland, New York Niagara University

Chester Arbor Scholarship Award Cardington, Ohio Purdue University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Winamac, Indiana Indiana University Purdue University Indianapolis

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Wanatah, Indiana Purdue University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Burr Oak, Michigan Grand Valley State University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Bowling Green, Ohio The Ohio University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Japser, Michigan Michigan State University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Rolling Prairie, Indiana Purdue University

Frank and Shirley Dick Scholarship Award Metamora, Ohio The Ohio State University

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Ashley Oakley

Vincent Ohlman

David O’Neil

Ariele Phillips

Doug Piper

Payton Price

Elizabeth Reitinger

Jessica Rhamy

Maggie Roback

Hannah Robinson

Bryana Sanders

Anna Schaeffer

Kayla Schmitz

Reed Schmitz

Nathan Schoen

Connor Scruggs

Taylor Selby

Christopher Sellas

Nicholas Sellas

Diana Semilia

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Akron, Ohio University of Findlay

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Eldorado, Illinois McKendree University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award New Carlisle, Indiana University of Indianapolis

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Tampa, Florida Santa Fe College

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Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Central City, Nebraska The University of Nebraska

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Macedonia, Ohio Lorain County Community College

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Strongsville, Ohio The University of Texas at Dallas

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award New Albany, Ohio Eckerd College

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Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Oak Forest, , Illinois Illinois Wesleyan University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award McClure, Ohio The University of Toledo

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Breckenridge, Michigan Alma College

Charles & Margaret Banner Memorial Scholarship Award Clearwater, Florida The University of Central Florida

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Lansing, Michigan Michigan State University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Adrian, Michigan The University of Michigan

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Breckenridge, Michigan Central Michigan University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Clearwater, Florida The University of Central Florida

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Freeland, Michigan The University of Michigan

Frank and Shirley Dick Scholarship Award Adrian, Michigan Saginaw Valley State University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Cedar Springs, Michigan Montcalm Community Collegee

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Doylestown, Ohio Kent State University

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Elizabeth Skowronski

Cameron Slee

Cade Smeznik

Barbara Stanish

Fay Steiger

Abigail Stevenson

Nathan Strzelewicz

Summer Sweeting

Ashley Syferd

Emily Thelen

Andrew Todd

Olivia Tolmen

Kierstin Tuttamore

Dimitri Valerio

Shannon Weihl

Kenzie Weingartz

Brianna Wiemer

Joshua Woods

Rebekah Wright

Emilee Zimmerman

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Toledo, Ohio The University of Toledo

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Napoleon, Ohio Hiram College

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Flushing, Michigan Olivet College

Charles & Margaret Banner Memorial Scholarship Award Marysville, Michigan Oakland University

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Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Holgate, Ohio Northwest State Community College

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Caro, Michigan Eastern Michigan University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Union Mills, Indiana Cornell College

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Tecumseh, Michigan Michigan State University

Charles & Margaret Banner Memorial Scholarship Award Lynn, Michigan Central Michigan University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award North Fairfield, Ohio Owens Community College

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Marblehead, Ohio The University of Toledo

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Evart, Michigan The University of Michigan

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Rolling Prairie, Indiana Southwestern Michigan College

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Whitestown, Indiana Ball State University

Charles & Margaret Banner Memorial Scholarship Award Toledo, Ohio Ohio University

Leonard and Margaret Davis Scholarship Award Bowling Green, Ohio Adrian College

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Rochester Hills, Michigan Pepperdine University

William & Mary Kleinhans Scholarship Award Saint Johns, Michigan Central Michigan University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Bowling Green, Ohio Bowling Green State University

Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award Medina, Ohio The University of Akron

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Navigating a path toward success High school graduation is a rite of passage most young people anticipate. Help your child set the path toward success beyond high school by starting early and mapping out a plan.

You probably have vivid memories of the day your child was born, those first steps and when he or she started reading. The role you played at those stages was big. The role you play in the college-prep milestone can be big, too, but you’ll have to take a step back and let your child take the initiative. After all, your child has to follow through with the actions you’ve helped map out, so offer encouragement and embrace your new behind-the-scenes role.

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www.gleanerlife.org

Timeline to successful college prep in high school: FRESHMAN YEAR

JUNIOR YEAR: FALL

SENIOR YEAR

Start a conversation about the future If you haven’t already done so, start talking to your child about college and possible future careers. This is probably a conversation you started before your child could read, so if the responses have been consistent, offer encouragement to explore the idea more. If your child isn’t sure about a future career, that’s OK, too. Just starting a conversation will get your child thinking about the future.

Take or retake the PSAT Your child will need to take the PSAT to be considered for the National Merit Scholarship competition, which awards some of the top financial scholarships in conjunction with colleges.

Take college courses In addition to AP classes, suggest that your child look into taking a college course or two online or at a community college. This will help kick-start the college experience.

Find activities to join College admissions offices like to see applicants who are well rounded, so encourage your child to find and participate in an activity or two. If sports isn't an interest, suggest something different, like robotics, student government or SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions).

Volunteer with your child It’s never too early to show your child the importance of serving others. What does this have to do with college? On scholarship applications, volunteer work will help your child stand out. If you’re not sure where to volunteer, Gleaner can help you find a local service organization. Visit www.gleanerlife.org to get started.

SOPHOMORE YEAR Take the PSAT This is a great way for your child to test his or her knowledge and relieve test-taking nerves.

Plan a volunteer activity If your child isn't quite ready for the PSAT, suggest that he or she take volunteering to a new level by planning, organizing and executing a volunteer activity. www.gleanerlife.org

Take college prep courses If your child’s school offers Advanced Placement (AP) or college-prep classes, encourage your child to sign up. These are often offered during the junior year.

Request information from colleges If your child shows special interest in certain colleges, request information or visit their websites to learn more. This preliminary research will help narrow down the choices for visiting.

JUNIOR YEAR: SPRING Take the SAT Cheer on your child as he or she takes the SAT. This important test is mandatory for applying to colleges. If your child isn’t happy with the results, it can be retaken.

Start visiting colleges Now that your child has a list of favored colleges, schedule visits. Campus visits are great for students to determine if they can picture themselves there.

Be sure to check out the entire campus, including residence halls, classrooms, computer labs and exercise facilities, and eat a meal in the dining hall if time allows.

Some colleges allow high school students to spend the night on campus to get the ultimate handson experience.

Fill out the FAFSA The Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, is an annual form that determines a student or prospective student’s eligibility for financial aid. This is one step where your child will need your help, so secure your tax returns and look for a workshop to help walk you through the process.

This is an important step that will help establish the amount of financial aid your child is eligible to receive.

Apply for scholarships Start applying for scholarships.

Many companies and organizations offer scholarships. Ask your high school guidance counselor for a list of possibilities. It’s also a good idea to check with your church or other organizations to which you belong. Gleaner Life awards 100 scholarships every year to benefit members. The scholarship application process will open on Nov. 1, 2017, and winners will be announced in February 2018. Visit www.gleanerlife.org/scholarships to learn more.

Select the right college Help your child weigh the pros and cons of the colleges to determine which one will best meet your child's academic and social interests.

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Arbors in Action

With 65 arbors spanning six states, we’re proud to provide ripples of hope through the volunteer efforts of our arbor members. Interested in joining an arbor to make a difference in your community? Visit www.gleanerlife.org/arbors to learn more.

Arbors spread service through flowers and fellowship Educating youth about the environment helps to promote earth-friendly lifestyles. During summer 2017, Youth Action Day activities were organized by two arbors:

Floyd Arbor (MI) (pictured above) joined six members of Boy Scout Troop 776 and Girl Scout Troop 50350, as well as the director of New Hope Village, to assemble birdhouses and garden boxes. These will be presented to New Hope Village, a new program for the homeless.

Mid Michigan Arbor (MI) (pictured to the right) members held a 4-H Fairground beautification event where volunteers ages 5 and up worked side by side. The arbor was fortunate to have a great, enthusiastic group of people for the event.

The day began at 9 a.m. with the planting of 20 or more flower flats in 11 large pots. Participants also cleaned and mulched two flower beds, scraped and painted five large cement pots, and scraped and painted a wooden fence around the acre-sized horse arena. Pizza was enjoyed for lunch. When Mid Michigan Arbor Secretary Shirley Dubiel left at 1:30 p.m., about 25 people were still painting away.

“Along with the hard work, everyone had a little fun and enjoyed the day,” said Dubiel.

“This day was a blessing of what every day should be. God’s people of all ages working side by side in friendship.”

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USA Arbor (MI) Fun-filled activities that educate, inspire and put smiles on the faces of community members — this is what USA Arbor is all about. The following activities were organized and held by the arbor during summer 2017:

Planting seeds of knowledge USA Arbor (MI) (pictured above and to the left) assisted groups of students in planting and harvesting a garden. The arbor purchased a hose, hand tools, a raised garden bed and plants for the activity. Students worked hard to do the rest.

A group of fifth-graders, along with their teacher and principal, began by scraping off the soil, assembling the planter and mulching the surrounding area. The next step involved working with two first-grade classrooms and their teachers to transplant pea plants that had been grown in the classrooms. They also planted tomato plants, cilantro, onions, peppers and strawberries.

“The kids were very enthusiastic and energetic,” said Sherri Thorp, president of the arbor. “They waited patiently in line for their turn to plant and then dug into the dirt with gusto. Each student was able to plant something with the help of the teachers, aides, principal and Gleaner members.”

Afterward, each first-grader spent one week during the summer tending to the planter, harvesting each plant once ripe. Come the new school year, teachers will use the vegetables to make homemade salsa — a treat for the school to savor.

Special Holiday for the Social U USA Arbor (MI) (pictured on the top of the next page) sponsored a Fourth of July carnival as a Special Holiday Activity for the Social U Group. Social U is a group for mentally and physically challenged adults in Tuscola County. Founded just over two years ago, the group has already grown to over 70 participants.

(Continued on next page.)

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A variety of 30 or more games was offered, many of which were Fourth of July-themed. Games ranged from ball tosses to a duck pond, ring tosses, wooden puzzles, hot wheels races, a money tent and pie in the face.

Participants could wander and play each game at their own pace, and Social U leaders and arbor members were stationed to assist. Face painting and tattoos were also available.

The arbor rented a money tent, which was filled with tickets, and the person who grabbed the most tickets received a basket (96 was the lucky winner). Participants also enjoyed snow cone, cotton candy and popcorn machines.

According to arbor president Thorp, the highlight of the day was the pie-throwing booth. Arbor members stood behind the cutout as participants aimed excitedly with shaving cream pies. After many pies had been thrown, participants stepped closer to smash the pies in members’ faces. “We laughed so hard,” said Thorp.

The day ended with a delicious meal and visit to the prize table. Participants selected two items from an assortment of goodies, which included sunglasses, playing cards, coloring books, puzzle books, key chains, hats, Slinkies and more. A little something for everyone.

“This activity was a blast! We had fun, and the participants had a great time,” said Thorp. “Their smiles said thanks enough.”

Snapshots of more ways our arbors give:

Birch Run Arbor (MI) (pictured left and above) members and Birch Run High School student volunteers gathered at Faith Lutheran Church in Bridgeport, Michigan, to sew quilts and 20

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pillowcases. The arbor’s sewing team consists of five to nine Gleaner members as well as others from the community. Working year-round to cut and assemble tops of quilts, the group then meets to finish and donate the pieces.

Quilts and pillowcases from this gathering were donated to the Holy Cross Rehab Center and the Foster Closet in Clio, Michigan.

Both facilities help children in crisis and give them something they can call their own. www.gleanerlife.org

Bowling Green Arbor (OH) partnered with Kids Count Too, an adoption agency that places children with families in Wood County. The agency recognizes that not all families are able to enjoy activities without additional help, and the arbor saw the need to foster a fun activity for families in need. The arbor purchased 40 tickets for the July 15 Toledo Mud Hens game. Guests and members enjoyed an outing at the ballpark and fireworks after the game.

Members distributed gloves, plastic bags and water to all participants.

They picked up cigarette butts, cans, tissues, paper towels and pieces of watermelon. Afterward, all trash was disposed of. Members also enjoyed breakfast after the cleanup.

Harmony Arbor (MI) (pictured above) members gathered at St. Mary’s School in Alma, Michigan, to celebrate Arbor Day. Richard Coleman played the part of Julius Morton, Arbor Day founder, and Rose Peck played the part of his wife, Caroline. Students participated in a question-andanswer presentation on the history of Arbor Day, focusing on the importance of planting trees and why they are valuable to the environment and population. The school administration selected a burning bush to be planted in the schoolyard. Students attended the planting and were given a pine seedling to take home and plant.

Gulf Coast Arbor (FL) (pictured above) members spent a beautiful Saturday morning cleaning up Lido Beach in Sarasota, Florida. www.gleanerlife.org

Homer Twp Oak Arbor (IL) contracted with Beaver Shredding to offer a two-hour papershredding event to the community.

The parking lot of the Homer Township Administration was used for the event, and the Homer Township Highway Department provided safety cones to direct the traffic. Gleaner bags and bottled water were distributed to each car.

The bottles were labeled with arbor stickers. Arbor members spent time interacting with customers

to promote arbor events like the September Senior Harvest. The shredded paper was taken to a center for recycling.

Ober Arbor (IN) teamed with a local second-grade class to plant two tulip trees. Ron Singleton helped the girls plant one tree, Paul Sellers helped the boys plant the other tree and a previously planted tree was replaced by Habo Runkle and Jim Falk. Mulch was then applied to the new trees and earlier plantings. Students had learned facts about the tulip tree, which were shared with the group.

Afterward, reports were written and presented to the other five second-grade classes. Each of the 144 students and six teachers took home a tree to plant.

Orchard Arbor (MI) (pictured above) hosted a movie night in the park with a showing of Moana.

Free Kona Ice treats were given to the first 100 children under age 12 to arrive. This was the first movie event of its kind in the community, and over 400 people attended.

Simply Giving Arbor (MI) planned an activity to support the Tim Lelito’s foundation. Tim is a St. Clair High School graduate and professional football player who started a foundation to raise funds for pay-to-play fees.

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sports equipment and donated a duffel bag for the event’s silent auction. Members also helped run the silent auction.

UPCOMING

EVENTS 58th Biennial Convention Traverse City, Michigan Oct. 13-15

White Pine Arbor (MI) (pictured above) hosted Super U! Challenge for Rose City Elementary School.

The Super U! Challenge (super YOU!) is an action-packed school assembly that promotes bully-free environments by encouraging students to build positive character traits. “It’s all about challenging students to become their own ‘personal superheroes’ and let their best traits shine — at school and at home,” said Ellen Scott, White Pine Arbor secretary.

Did you find the wheat stalk?

In this issue of Forum Magazine, the wheat stalk was hidden on page 20, in the photo from Birch Run Arbor.

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Scholarship application opens Nov. 1

Gleaner’s Family Safari to Kalahari Sandusky, Ohio Nov. 10-12

Gleaner’s Family Days As you begin thinking about the 2018 year, be sure to include Gleaner events in your plans. Members will enjoy discounted ticket rates up to 60 percent off and a complimentary lunch.

Look for more details on our 2018 Family Day events on Page 4 or visit www.gleanerlife.org/familydays. www.gleanerlife.org

A SOLID FOUNDATION stands the test of time.

The true test of any foundation is how it holds up over the years. Foundation 9 annuity rates have risen since the annuity’s launch in 2013. That means these flexible-premium annuities have gone above and beyond their guarantees, providing long-term stability and growth.

While interest rates are always subject to change, Foundation 9’s history of stability speaks for itself.

Foundation 9 rate history Account values of $50,000-$99,999 Effective date

First-year interest rate

Renewal rate

May 1, 2013

1.90%

N/A

July 15, 2013

2.10%

N/A

Oct. 1, 2013

2.25%

N/A

Jan. 2, 2014

2.40%

N/A

May 1, 2014

2.40%

2.15%

Aug. 1, 2014

2.30%

2.15%

Oct. 1, 2014

2.30%

2.25%

May 4, 2015

2.05%

2.25%

Aug. 3, 2015

2.35%

2.25%

Feb. 1, 2016

2.55%

2.55%

May 4, 2016

2.45%

2.45%

Sept. 1, 2016

2.20%

2.45%

Feb. 1, 2017

2.35%

2.45%

2.80%

2.50%

May 1, 2017

1

1

Foundation 9 annuities feature: •

Competitive first-year interest rates with a minimum guarantee of 1% in all years.

•

Stable, reliable renewal rates in subsequent years.

•

A premium bonus of 50 basis points (0.50%) on initial premium.2

•

No annual maintenance fees.

•

Surrender charge of 9% in year one, decreasing by 1% each year until 0%. Surrender charge does not reset when additional premium is added.

•

Withdrawals up to 15% of the account value per certificate year without incurring a surrender charge — even in the first year.

Contact a Gleaner agent to learn how Foundation 9 can help you build a safe and secure financial foundation.

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. Foundation 9 form number FPDA9-13 with state-specific variations. This flyer 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.

www.gleanerlife.org

www.gleanerlife.org

1 First-year and renewal interest rates are subject to change. Renewal rates reflect Foundation 9 Version 1C/1D, which was launched May 1, 2017. 2Premium bonus subject to change.

Forum Magazine \ Fall 2017 \ 23

50-year members

75-year members

Florida Melonie I. Dorsey, Gainesville Donna J. Konrad, Sebring

Florida Clyde R. Hoffman, Lecanto

Michigan Daniel W. Davis, Ithaca Jennie L. Denike, Boon Robert E. Foster, Marlette Starling L. Foster, Marlette Michael Garrison, Lawton Robert G. Goschke, Shepherd Rose McLeod, Traverse City Jimmy L. Sabin, Vassar Margot L. Sanford, Bangor John D. Willson, North Branch

Indiana David Davis, South Bend Ivah F. Nigg, Avon

Indiana Rosemary T. Gleason, Lowell Rose Mary Whittaker, Mishawaka

North Carolina Donald W. Demorest, Stanley Ohio Charles R. Lynn, Ashley Martha A. Strong, Ashtabula

Dear Gleaner Life Insurance, I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for the Gleaner [South Fairfield Arbor] Scholarship. As one of this year’s recipients, I am grateful for the opportunities this award will provide me. Receiving this scholarship will help reduce my financial responsibilities and provide assistance as I pursue my education in the field of nursing at Michigan State University.

Your vote of confidence does not go unnoticed. The support and generosity you provide to all students is greatly appreciated. Once again, thank you and I look forward to the Tiger’s game in August.

Illinois Janet M. Boyer, Reddick Eleanor McClintock, Joliet William H. Ohrt, Kankakee

Michigan Dorothy I. Bell, Okemos Dolores M. Hansen, Edmore Gene R. Hogle, Plymouth Perry M. Johnson, Holt Nancy K. Lewis, Saint Johns Joyce A. Schafer, Mount Pleasant Esther E. Withey, Lakeview

Ohio Patricia A. Floro, Delta Roger O. Knauber, Delaware Ruth E. Roth, Archbold Mary J. Stanton, Grover Hill Vondale M. Utz, Waterville Oklahoma Charles C. Hart, Tulsa

Pennsylvania Robert R. Rigg, Cooksburg

Missouri Lloyd S. Knapp, Clayton

North Carolina Roy Scofield, Youngsville

Dear Gleaner Life Insurance Society Scholarship Foundation, It is a tremendous honor to be selected for a $3,000 scholarship. I truly appreciate being chosen for this award and it will definitely help me to be successful in my studies at the University of Central Florida.

Sincerely, Nicholas Sellas 2017 Frederick & Evelyn Fountain Scholarship Award

Dear Gleaner Life Insurance Scholarship Foundation, Thank you for the Frank and Shirley Dick Scholarship Award. I am so honored to be not only one of the hundred to receive a Gleaner Scholarship, but also one of the fifty to receive this $3,000 scholarship.

This money will help me further my education at the The Ohio State University while pursuing a degree in Biomedical Engineering.

Alyssa Noe 2017 Frank and Shirley Dick Scholarship Award

Sincerely, Spencer Fisher 2017 South Fairfield Arbor Scholarship Award 24

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Limited Quantities Available

You can purchase children’s books today at a discounted price!

Gleaner is offering you the opportunity to purchase The Giving Book and The Nickels, Dimes and Dollars Book at a special discounted price. As a Gleaner member, you can purchase them for just $10 per book. All proceeds will be donated to the Gleaner Life Insurance Society Scholarship Foundation.

The Giving Book: Open the Door to a Lifetime of Giving The Giving Book is fi lled with activities that help children think about their hopes and dreams for the world. Th is book will let kids decide how they want to use their time, kindness, talents and money in order to make a difference.

The book is appropriate for children ages 6-11 and provides hands-on activities, a journal and scrapbook that will help inspire them as they record their journey of giving and charity.

The Giving Book: Limited Quantities Available

The Nickels, Dimes and Dollars Book: A Wise Kid’s Guide to Money Matters The Nickels, Dimes and Dollars Book will help kids make smart decisions about how to spend, share, save, earn and grow their money. The more they learn to manage money, the more it can help them to create a comfortable and meaningful future.

Th is activity book is a conversation starter and an educational tool that inspires children to develop valuable skills and healthy habits that can support their well-being and fi nancial futures. Appropriate for ages 6 and up.

To purchase books …

To purchase books, complete the order form below and mail it along with your check to the address shown. For more information, contact the Marketing Department at 800.992.1894 or email forum@gleanerlife.org.

The Giving Book and The Nickels, Dimes, and Dollars Book were written by Ellen Sabin and published by Watering Can® Press.

Watering Can® is committed to creating and distributing books and other products that nurture and inspire children as they grow into their roles as healthy, kind, confident and giving world citizens. For more information, visit wateringcanpress.com.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Please make check payable to: GLIS Scholarship Foundation

Mail to: Gleaner Life Insurance Society, Attn: The Giving Book, P.O. Box 1894, Adrian, MI 49221

BILLING ADDRESS

SHIPPING ADDRESS

Your Name: _______________________________

Name: ____________________________________

Address: __________________________________

Address: __________________________________

City/State: ________________________________

City/State: ________________________________

Zip: ______________________________________

Zip: ______________________________________

Phone: ____________________________________

Phone: ____________________________________

Email: ____________________________________

Email: ____________________________________

 Same as Billing Address

# of The Giving Book: _______ # of The Nickels, Dimes and Dollars Book: _______ x $10.00 (each) = $ _______

www.gleanerlife.org Please allow 2-4 weeks for shipping.

Forum Magazine \ Fall Enclosed) 2017 \ (Total Amount

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Michigan's

Colorful Harvest

The Michigan Mitten has much to offer. Whether exploring the Great Lakes, discovering history at The Henry Ford complex in Dearborn or taking in Traverse City festivals, the Michigan experience is rich.

And come autumn, there’s so much more. A time when farmers harvest and families gather, Michigan’s fall season is plentiful, to say the least. If you don’t know about Michigan agricultural heritage, here are a handful of facts to put things in perspective.

• Michigan’s food and agriculture industries make up a large portion of the state’s workforce.¹ • There are about 10 million acres of farmland in Michigan.¹ • Michigan agriculture contributes $101.2 billion annually to the state’s economy. ¹ • The state leads the nation in the production of several crops, including dry beans, tart cherries, blueberries, squash, nine floriculture products (including hanging baskets, Easter lilies, geraniums, petunias and impatiens) and cucumbers for pickles.²

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Of the many crops grown in Michigan, these fruits and vegetables are popular during the fall.

Apples | Michigan’s official state flower is the apple blossom, and the state is known for growing many types of apples. From McIntosh to Granny Smith, Golden Delicious to Fuji, each one is unique in taste and color. They’re enjoyed in many ways, too: apple pie, apple cider, baked apples, apple butter — the possibilities are endless. And, doesn’t an apple a day keep the doctor away?

Beets | The beet adds vibrant color to any table and is often seen at Thanksgiving. Beets can be eaten raw, pickled, roasted or steamed. And while the vegetable is very healthy, it’s also surprisingly sweet.

Nothing beats the humble beet. www.gleanerlife.org

Grapes | Michigan wineries start the harvest, and visitors arrive to learn all about it. Many even take part by picking grapes or stomping grapes — and after all the fun, enjoying the fresh taste and aroma of a glass of wine.

Pumpkins | Time for

pumpkin pie and pumpkin seeds and finding the perfect jack-o'lantern at your local pumpkin patch. Some are miniature, others giant. And they mature in a variety of colors. What’s a fall garden without pumpkins?

If you enjoyed reading about Michigan's harvest, email your name and address to forum@gleanerlife.org by Nov. 17 for a chance to win an autumn gift basket from Harry and David.

¹ http://www.michigan.gov/ mdard/0,4610,7-125-1572-7775--,00.html

² http://www.michigan.gov/documents/mda/MDA_ Crops_Brochure_low-resolution_324586_7.pdf

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Cash value, face amount and death benefit Understanding the components of your permanent life insurance certificate Permanent life insurance (e.g., whole life or universal life insurance) provides longer, potentially lifelong, life insurance protection compared to term life insurance solutions. Whole life insurance is fairly straightforward: in exchange for your payment of an established, guaranteed premium (for instance, single-premium, 10-year payment, 20-year payment or payments until age 100), you are guaranteed a death benefit for life should the worst happen. Our universal life solutions provide more flexibility in terms of both the selected premium amount and timing of your premium payments.

As a result, the length of your ultimate coverage provided can vary accordingly. But another aspect of permanent life insurance can sometimes seem confusing to certificate holders: cash value.

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What is cash value?

In general, permanent life insurance solutions build cash value because the premiums are higher and designed to provide coverage for the insured’s entire lifetime, not just a specific, designated term. Term life solutions do not have a cash value component, as the premium payment is designed to provide the death benefit chosen for a specific term. Those premiums are much greater than the underlying (and increasing) annual mortality cost to the insurer. The insured also earns cash value on the remaining balance interest, which contributes to the certificate’s cash value. The life insurer invests these extra funds to provide the interest credited (universal life) or guaranteed cash value and annual dividends (whole life) to the insured.

The life insurer establishes the reserves that it is legally required to maintain to support the insured’s cash value and the death benefit obligation the insurer agrees to cover.

Whole life solutions provide both an annually increasing guaranteed cash value component as well as the potential for annual dividends.

Dividends are paid when the insurer has more favorable mortality and investment experience than assumed.

Annual dividends are often used to buy paid-up insurance additions, providing you with a greater guaranteed death benefit and cash value. Dividends can also be paid in cash, used to reduce future premiums or left to accumulate with interest.

With an agent’s assistance, the certificate holder selects the dividend option best suited for his or her financial plan at the time of application.

With universal life insurance, the certificate offers a guaranteed minimum interest rate, as well as a currently declared interest rate (which is typically higher) based on the investment returns the insurer is able to achieve with its investable funds.

If the insured pays a higher premium (e.g., a “target premium”) than the minimum required to cover the cost of insurance and other expense charges

in the certificate, the certificate’s cash value will build and earn additional interest. Unlike whole life insurance, universal life insurance allows some flexibility in the timing and amount of your premium payments, as long as the cash value is great enough to pay the monthly cost of insurance and expense charges due on the certificate.

This flexibility can reduce the cash value and even deplete it completely if utilized too frequently. We recommend that our certificate holders maintain their planned payment schedules as closely as possible and even increase their premium levels and payment frequency as needed if interest rates decline over time. This will prevent the valuable coverage from expiring prematurely.

How is cash value different from face amount and death benefit?

While cash value builds over time, the face amount of your certificate is selected at the time of application and does not typically change (more on this in the next paragraph). The death benefit paid is the face amount, less any outstanding loans or other early distributions of your certificate benefits. Both of these concepts are different from the cash value of your certificate, which is the amount the certificate owner would be entitled to receive if he or she chose to discontinue coverage.

Does the face amount ever change?

The face amount may increase if you purchase and exercise a guaranteed insurability rider. With whole life insurance solutions, the face amount may also increase if you choose to purchase paid-up additions with your annual dividends. With universal life solutions, you can choose a death benefit option that pays you both the face amount of your coverage plus the current cash value. The cost of insurance under this option is higher than the level death benefit option, which pays the face amount designated at issue. Universal life

certificates also allow the owner the flexibility to decrease the face amount if his or her needs or ability to pay premiums change, subject to the terms of the certificate.

Can I access my cash value other than by terminating my certificate?

One of the benefits of permanent life insurance is the owner’s ability to access the certificate’s cash value by a partial surrender or certificate loan in the event of a special need or emergency. But since your cash value grows tax deferred inside your life insurance certificate, any disbursement may have tax implications. It is always best to speak with your agent and a tax professional as needed before taking such a distribution in either form.

Certificate loans are charged loan interest annually, and your ultimate death benefit will be reduced by the amount of any outstanding loan.

Partial surrenders are subject to the terms of the certificate.

Having a strong knowledge of these concepts is key to understanding how permanent life insurance fits into your financial plan. If you’re interested in learning more about permanent life insurance or if you have questions about your existing Gleaner permanent life insurance certificate, contact your Gleaner agent, listed on the back of this publication.

This article 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. www.gleanerlife.org

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Recipe File Frozen Pumpkin Dessert Shirley Dick The Recipe File, Vol. 3, p. 276 1½ cups graham cracker crumbs ½ cup sugar ½ cup margarine, melted 1¼ cups canned pumpkin ¼ cup firmly packed brown sugar 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon ground ginger ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves ¼ teaspoon salt 1 quart vanilla ice cream, softened Frozen whipped topping (optional) Chopped pecans (optional)

Combine first three ingredients, stirring well. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch square pan.

Bake 10 minutes at 350 degrees; allow to cool. Combine pumpkin, sugar, spices and salt, stirring until blended. Fold in ice cream and pour mixture into prepared pan. Cover and freeze 8 hours or more.

If desired, serve with whipped topping and sprinkle with pecans.

Zucchini Ham Bake Dorothy Keller, Emerald Echo Arbor The Recipe File, Vol. 3, p. 195 4 cups thinly sliced zucchini 1 cup mushroom ½ cup onion rings Dash of garlic salt 1 beaten egg

⅔ cup Miracle Whip salad dressing ½ cup sour cream 1 tablespoon flour 2 cups chopped ham 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese

Combine the zucchini, mushrooms, onions and garlic salt. In a separate dish, combine the egg, Miracle Whip, sour cream and flour, mixing until blended. In a greased 12-inch-by-8-inch baking dish, layer half of the vegetable mixture, half of the Miracle Whip mixture, half of the ham and cheese and repeat the layers.

Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.

Looking for more recipe ideas? Take the tear-out recipe card included in this issue of Forum Magazine and add it to your recipe box!

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\ Fall 2017 \ Forum Magazine

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Korinne’s Korner Our friends and family will tell you that our refrigerator is covered with uplifting messages on life’s joys, challenges and celebrations. Every time I open the refrigerator door to grab something, one of those messages pops out at me. It’s a terrific daily reminder to stay positive and on message.

Today, our youngest son sent me a text with a post enclosed: “Without rain, nothing grows; learn to embrace the storms of your life.”

Yes, even our children are hooked on positive messages and keep their eyes open for them at all times. After I read his text, it immediately brought to mind a recent sermon by our pastor. He and his family had just returned from a day at Cedar Point. Their middle son, age 7, asked why the roller coaster couldn’t just go in a straight line. The pastor's message tied in life’s journey, which is definitely not a straight line. It’s full of many twists, turns, peaks and valleys. Calls to the plumber, repairs for the car, children with the flu, changes in the workplace, even disagreements with friends — the list can go on and on. It eases my mind and keeps me focused to glance at the mural of messages in my kitchen.

A close friend of our daughter’s gave us this recipe, which has fast become a Marti family comfort-food favorite. This dear friend overcame obstacles in her life and moved forward with much happiness and success.

I bought her a magnet like the one that hangs on our refrigerator, with this message: “Falling down is part of life; getting back up is living.”

Fraternally yours (and best wishes for always getting back up!),

Korinne Marti, Wife of Gleaner President and CEO Kevin Marti

Spaghetti Casserole 1 pound ground chicken or turkey, browned 1 package sliced turkey pepperoni 1 can diced tomatoes, drained 1 box thin spaghetti noodles, cooked and drained 1 jar Ragu (or red sauce of choice) 1 jar Alfredo sauce 1 cup shredded cheddar-mozzarella cheese mix Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 9-inch-by-13-inch casserole pan with cooking spray. Gradually mix all ingredients together in a large bowl; pour into prepared pan. I sprinkle additional cheese on top. Cook 30 minutes or until bubbly. Enjoy!

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Forum Magazine \ Fall 2017 \

31

Hi, kids!

I hope you had a fun-filled summer! Now fall is here, a time when farmers’ crops are gathered,

ART

when football season begins and when kids return

1. Pair up with a parent or family member to begin the project.

off to a great start. I know you will make it great by

2. Collect an assortment of leaves of varying shapes and colors.

to school. Speaking of school, I hope your year is meeting new friends and learning new things.

Fall is also a great time to be outdoors. I love the

3. Place the leaves inside a heavy book for about 10 days.

turn bright colors of red, orange and yellow. The next

4. Once the leaves are pressed flat, remove them from the book and place them on newspaper or wax paper.

so you can enjoy the fun fall craft on the right.

5. Use metallic paint markers to draw unique designs on the leaves.

beautiful changes of the season and how the trees

time you’re outside, be sure to collect colorful leaves Take care!

BENNY

The Benevolent Lion

32

\ Fall 2017 \ Forum Magazine

6. Apply Mod Podge to add strength and shine (optional).

7. Allow time for the leaves to dry, and then use them to decorate your bedroom or home for fall. www.gleanerlife.org

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