In this issue: Health and wellness in 2017 2017 Gleaner Family Days Florida snowbird events
2015-2016 Samaritan year The Arbor Newsletter is published bi-monthly by Kevin A. Marti President and CEO
Community Engagement Department Michelle Horn
ARBOR SUPP ORT
RESULTS
$575,886
Assistant Vice President, Community Engagement
Jaime Linden
EDUCAT IONAL SUPP ORT
Arbor Growth and Development Coordinator
Jessica Vasher
$281,646
Sr. Community Engagement Specialist
Kirsten Stiver Community Engagement Specialist
Leandra Diedrich Arbor Ambassador
Jessica Roddy Arbor Ambassador
PATRIO T IC EFF ORTS
Fraternal Advisory Council
$19,147
Michelle Horn Chair
June Lenig Co-Chair Rolling Prairie Arbor (IN)
Stephanie Andresen Gleoma Arbor (NE)
Karen Lowder Capital Arbor (MI)
Deb Rydberg Heart of Florida Arbor (FL)
$1,099,085 14,628
in FRATERNAL BENEF I TS
Leo Knox Bowling Green Arbor (OH)
ARBORS HELD
Dan Sutton
1,165 events/meetings
Hawthorne Arbor (IN)
Deborah Ruetz Sulphur Springs Arbor (IL) Gleaner Life Insurance Society 5200 West U.S. Hwy. 223 P.O. Box 1894 Adrian, Michigan 49221-7894 p 517.263.2244 or 800.992.1894 f 517.265.7745
www.gleanerlife.org communityengagement@gleanerlife.org This bi-monthly publication of the Community Engagement Department is written and designed by the Marketing Department staff at Gleaner’s Home Office.
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MEALS PROV IDED
61,249
TOTAL IN ATTENDANCE: Members: 12,248 Guests: 49,001
These numbers were based on 64 active arbors during the 2015-16 Samaritan year, running from Sept. 1, 2015 to Aug. 31, 2016.
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Happy New Year! As we kick off 2017, there is plenty to be excited about, and we’re looking forward to sharing several new events and programs with you in the coming months. For us to bring you these new initiatives, it’s necessary to alter some of our traditions. But just as we welcomed changes in 2016 — to our department names, our Samaritan modifications and our restructuring — we will hold tight to the ideals that make Gleaner membership unique and essential to building strong communities. You might be asking what the driving force is behind these changes. The fraternal organization industry is facing challenges that call for being proactive in implementing changes to promote growth. A.M. Best ratings for fraternal organizations are trending negative. While Gleaner Life’s recent rating held strong (see article on Page 3), there is no guarantee for the future. To maintain a positive outlook, growth is important, and that is why our focus in 2017 will be on increasing membership through a variety of avenues. By making changes now, Gleaner can help even more individuals find financial security for generations to come. With over 45,000 member households, our arbors represent about 2 percent of our membership. We want to expand our reach so more members can take advantage of all the benefits Gleaner offers. As a 501(c)(8) organization, Gleaner is required to maintain a lodge system, and that is what makes you and your volunteer efforts so important to us. We thank each one of you who volunteers on behalf of Gleaner. We wouldn’t be where we are today or where we dream about going if it weren’t for you.
picnics, while our other family events, like Kalahari, have shown growth. We are excited to introduce new family-friendly events that are designed to appeal to a wide range of ages. These new Gleaner Family Day member events will feature highly discounted admission and a meal at popular attractions. See more details on Page 4. Our Gleaner Family Day events are just the start of our growth initiatives. In the coming months, we plan to kick off the Gleaner Gives Grant Program. Gleaner members will have the opportunity to apply for community grant funds and gather their friends and family to help them make a difference in their communities. This program is designed to give members who aren’t already in an arbor the opportunity to join Gleaner in strengthening their communities. Finally, we will explore different ways to share the Gleaner story — the ways we are helping to strengthen our communities. American Fraternal Alliance President Joe Annoti once said fraternals are America’s best-kept secret. You, our members, are doing such wonderful things and bringing positive change to your communities every day. We need to let others know the benefits of being a Gleaner member. In the next few months, we will be exploring better ways to share your arbors’ activities to our full membership through our publications and online initiatives. We’re looking forward to so many exciting new events and initiatives in 2017, as well as time-tested traditions like our Biennial Convention to Traverse City, Michigan, in October. We also look forward to growing stronger together in 2017.
To supplement our arbor system, we are implementing new initiatives to reach members who are not currently involved with an arbor. Our goal is to introduce the fraternal side of Gleaner to our members. One of the biggest changes you will notice in 2017 is the departure from our traditional picnic model. Over the years, we have seen a significant decrease in attendance at these family
Fraternally, Michelle Horn Assistant Vice President, Community Engagement
State and regional association meetings set Gleaner scholarship recipients to be announced May 1 The application deadline for 2016 Gleaner Scholarships ended Feb. 1. Gleaner will announce the winners on its website on May 1.
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Gleaner Life’s state and regional association meetings are right around the corner. These associations meet to elect state association officers and combine resources to make a larger impact on their geographic areas. MI Thumb Regional Association Saturday, March 25 10:00 a.m. EDT Frankenmuth Bavarian Inn Restaurant, Frankenmuth, MI Northern MI Regional Association Sunday, March 26 1:00 p.m. EDT Antlers Fireside Grill, Canadian Lakes, MI Ohio State Association Tuesday, April 11 6:00 p.m. EDT Bowling Green Country Club, Bowling Green, OH
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Southern MI Regional Association Tuesday, April 18 6:00 p.m. EDT Clark Lake Golf Course, Brooklyn, MI Indiana State Association Saturday, April 29 12:30 p.m. CDT Blue Herron- T-Bones at Pier 11, Laporte, IN Illinois State Association Sunday, April 30 1:00 p.m. CDT Al’s Steakhouse, Joliet, IL
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Five tips to improve your
HEALTH AND WELLNESS in 2017 There has never been a better time to improve your health and wellness. The busyness of life often catches up to those with the best of intentions for a healthy lifestyle. That’s why we’re suggesting five quick and easy ways to work toward a healthier lifestyle.
Drink water. It sounds easy, but sometimes we get so busy that several hours pass between drinks of water, or we reach for caffeinated drinks instead. This year, try to drink more water. Add lemon for a little flavor.
Stretch. Take a few minutes each morning to stretch. This simple practice can help you ease into your day with a more limber spine and joints.
Sleep. The recommended amount for adults is 7-9 hours a night, so resist the temptation to stay up late to watch your favorite TV show or finish a book.
Pray.
Take a few minutes each day to reflect on your blessings. This positive practice might help you maintain an optimistic approach throughout the day.
Walk. As often as possible, get up and walk, even if it’s just for brief spurts. As you go about your day, try doing one or two of these easy suggestions. Once you master them, add to the list and keep working toward a healthy future.
Gleaner’s A.M. Best rating affirmed A.M. Best Co. recently affirmed Gleaner Life Insurance Society’s “A- (Excellent)” rating with a “stable” outlook. A.M. Best is a worldwide insurance rating and information agency that has been in operation for over 100 years. It is the largest and longest-established company devoted to issuing in-depth reports and financial strength ratings on insurance organizations. This rating is important because it shows that Gleaner, like other companies with “A- (Excellent)” ratings, has an excellent ability to meet its ongoing insurance obligations, in the opinion of A.M. Best. To determine the annual rating, A.M. Best examines several factors, including investment yields, first-year single premiums and membership growth. The positive outlook from A.M. Best is important for Gleaner, as other fraternal organizations have not received comparable ratings, signaling a downward trend for fraternal organizations. In an effort to ensure positive ratings in the future, Gleaner Life plans to continue its efforts to seek conservative investments with a high degree of financial stability and to increase its fraternal membership. With that in mind, your Community Engagement Department will continue making modifications to existing programs and trying new avenues to recruit like-minded individuals who want to make a positive impact in their communities.
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2017 Gleaner FAMILY DAY EVENTS This summer, Gleaner Life wants to get the whole family involved in fun activities. That’s why we’re hosting several regional Family Day events for members of all ages. Check out the schedule below, and plan to join us this summer. Tickets for all events will be discounted up to 60% for members. Look for more details in upcoming issues of The Arbor Newsletter. Registration opens soon.
EVENT SCHEDULE August 12
June 24
MICHIGAN’S ADVENTURE Muskegon, MI
INDIANA BEACH Monticello, IN
June 25
August 19
JOLIET SLAMMERS BASEBALL GAME Joliet, IL
DETROIT TIGERS BASEBALL GAME Detroit, MI
Join us for additional family-friendly events throughout the year. •
FLAG DAY CELEBRATION AND BLOOD DRIVE, June 14
•
GLEANER DAY AT GREENFIELD VILLAGE, TBD
•
BIENNIAL CONVENTION, Oct. 13-15
•
GLEANER FAMILY SAFARI TO KALAHARI, Nov. 10-12 (registration opens May 1)
July 8
TOLEDO ZOO Toledo, OH
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Special Holiday Project #10 Twenty-seven arbors completed Special Holiday Projects in the last quarter of 2016. From hosting and participating in Trunk or Treat events to donating and serving food and coordinating Christmas celebrations, our arbors took initiative to make a difference in their communities.
Bay Area Arbor (FL) —
The arbor sponsored and participated in the annual Holiday in the Park event with the Hillsborough County Parks and Recreation Department at the Apollo Beach County Park. The complimentary event included food and gifts from Santa and Mrs. Claus, an appearance by Santa’s elf, bounce houses, skate park contests and singing by local school groups.
Gleoma Arbor (NE) —
Arbor members helped spread Christmas cheer when they took 76 children shopping with the help of volunteers. Each child was matched with a volunteer and given $100 to shop for anything they wanted. Several children purchased presents for family members. The group then gathered to wrap presents and enjoy a pizza lunch provided by Villagio Pizzeria.
Heritage Arbor (MI) —
Arbor members and guests attended a Christmas celebration at the Otisville Historic Museum. Santa was on hand to listen to wishes and hand out gift bags the arbor provided.
Madison Arbor (MI) — The arbor held its annual Santa Paws event where people can bring their pets for a picture with Santa.
North Baltimore Arbor (OH) — Arbor members and youth from the Klassy Kids 4-H group shopped for children in need in the North Baltimore area. Each 4-H member was paired with an arbor member to shop.
Orchard Arbor (MI) — The arbor hosted its first Trunk or Treat on Oct. 29 in the Almont Middle School parking lot. The event was a success, with 1,392 in attendance.
Other arbors that completed Special Holiday Projects include: Bavarian Arbor (MI) Birch Run Arbor (MI) Black Swamp Arbor (OH) Bowling Green Arbor (OH) Center Township Arbor (IN) Chester Arbor (OH) Emerald Echo Arbor (OH) 5
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Findlay Flag City Arbor (OH) Glen Arbor (MI) Grand Arbor (MI) Greater Flint Area Arbor (MI) Gulf Coast Arbor (FL) Hawthorne Arbor (IN) Homer Township Oak Arbor (IL) Ja n u a r y / Feb ru a r y 2 0 1 7
Huron Shores Arbor (MI) Marion Arbor (MI) Mount Pleasant (MI) Oakwood Arbor (OH) Portage Center Arbor (OH) Riley Creek Arbor (OH) South Fairfield Arbor (MI/OH) g lea ner life.org
Arbor Activities Alma Arbor (MI) Youth Action Day #5 — Arbor members purchased and filled Fostering Joy Christmas stockings for 33 foster children in Gratiot County. Goodies included toys and activities along with hats and gloves/ mittens and either a bag of candy or a container of cereal puffs. The kids ranged in age from 3 months to 16 years.
Bavarian Arbor (MI) Mission for LIFE® #4 — Arbor President David Traubenkraut welcomed and presented the MFL program to attendees at the Weiss Centennial Farm. Afterward, arbor members and guests enjoyed cider and doughnuts as they listened to music by the Heritage String Band. Community Volunteer Recognition (CVR) #1 — The arbor awarded CVR awards to Emma Trickey-Wazny (youth), Jennifer Miller (adult) and Laura Jean Kehn (senior). Trickey-Wazny of Millington was recognized for her volunteer efforts at sporting and other school activities at Millington High School. Miller and Kehn both actively volunteer at the Frankenmuth Farmers Market.
Community Outreach Activity #6 — Bay Area Arbor (FL) members delivered 56 Christmas Santa bags to Mary Martha House for their children’s Christmas celebration. Each Santa bag included shoes, socks, underwear, pajamas, jacket or sweater, an outfit and one or two toy items from the child’s wish list.
families. Wild Card Activity #9 — Arbor members purchased several items for My Warriors Place. Patriotic Activity #2 — Arbor members participated in and supported a golf tournament at MacDill Air Force Base to raise funds for Hillsborough County Veterans Helping Veterans. Elderly Support Activity #8 — Arbor members were the wait staff at the Christmas luncheon celebration at the Irongate Senior Apartment Complex. They also donated 40 mugs filled with Christmas candy for the residents.
Birch Run Arbor (MI) The Heritage String Band performed at the Weiss Centennial Farm for Bavarian Arbor’s Mission for LIFE® event.”
Bay Area Arbor (FL) Community Outreach Activity #6 — Arbor members participated in the Ruskin Community Park’s Trunk or Treat, an invitation-only event for low-income gl eanerlife.org
Youth Action Day #5 — The arbor sponsored “Don’t Let Math Frighten You,” an educational night at Marshall Greene Middle School. The evening included hands-on activities like story problem relays, time zone challenges and a STEM car-making activity.
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Black Swamp Arbor (OH) CVR Activity #1 — The arbor recognized three community members with CVR awards. Ohio state Rep. Tony Burkley made the presentations to Dan Wilder (senior), Jon Snodgrass (adult) and Brendan Weidenhamer (youth).
Bowling Green Arbor (OH) Youth Action Day #5 — The arbor treated preschool students at Montessori School of Bowling Green to a pumpkin hunt. Community Outreach Activity # 6 — Arbor members worked with St. Mark’s Lutheran Church to host the Wednesday Night Live dinner for 120 area residents who are in need. Environmental Activity #3 — In collaboration with the Environmental Club at Anthony Wayne High School, arbor members are working to restore the nature trail behind the school by removing poison ivy and adding signs to designate the path. The arbor donated $300 to the club. J a n u a r y /Fe br u a r y 2017
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Chester Arbor (OH) members prepared sacks for Christmas delivery by the Senior Center to Meals on Wheels recipients. Those pictured include Joanne Trainer, Larry Richards, Jim Osborn, Deb and Dick Noll, Bill Hershner, Pat Maxwell, Donna Osborn, Rita Barton, Doris Hildebrand, Clara McClenathan, Janet Bedwell, Donna Mills, Luella Thomas and Maggie Clark. Linda Ruehrmund took the photo.
Regina Harris and her daughter enjoyed watching “The Grinch” at Mary Max Theater. Community Arbor (IN) provided the movie free of charge.
Capital Arbor (MI)
Chester Arbor (OH)
Crystal Lake Arbor (MI)
CVR Activity #1 — Arbor members recognized two individuals with CVR awards: Marcus Miller (youth) and Kellie Dean (adult). The arbor also awarded four Samaritan awards in the amount of $300 each to Small Talk, Boys and Girls Club, Ingham MYOI and Calvary Baptist Food Bank.
Elderly Support Activity #8 — Arbor members visited with residents at Woodside Rest Home, where they sang hymns, enjoyed a snack and completed a Thanksgiving craft to help decorate residents’ rooms. Community Outreach Activity #6 — Arbor members assisted with the fourth Christmas in Cardington, which featured Christmas bingo, crafts, ice sculpting, a live Nativity scene, carriage rides, caroling, visits with Santa and entertainment, plus visits to businesses.
Community Arbor (IN)
Capital Arbor (OH) presented a $1,000 Caring Hands Award to National Guardsman Eric Parker.
Caro Arbor (MI) Patriotic Activity #2 — Several arbor members and veterans gathered at a local restaurant, Beagio’s, and the elementary school in Kingston. The students and staff at the elementary school honored area veterans, and they all shared doughnuts and juice provided by the arbor. The arbor also provided breakfast for veterans before an assembly at Bad Axe Middle School. Middle school students helped to serve and honor the veterans. 7
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CVR Activity #1 — Arbor members met at the West Side Diner for dinner and to recognize Janet Hartle with a CVR award. Community Outreach Activity #6 — The arbor sponsored a free Christmas movie for the residents of Logansport, Indiana. Disney’s “The Grinch” was shown. There were 374 people in attendance. Arbor members also had a drawing for prizes before the movie. A prize was given to a girl, a boy and a family. Prizes included a DVD and board game of the movie and gift cards for the theater. Mission for LIFE® #4 — Arbor members and guests met at Pastarific for dinner. Travis Holcomb, arbor secretary/treasurer, led the group in Mission for LIFE® bingo.
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Wild Card Activity #9 — Crystal Lake Arbor (MI) members participated in Habitat for Humanity’s festival of trees.
Fallen Timbers Arbor (OH) recently awarded a CVR Award to 11-year-old Jaxon Sanchez, who is raising money for a classmate diagnosed with Burkitt lymphoma. He started a T-shirt sales campaign with $800 of his own money. So far, he has raised $3,000.
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Fallen Timbers Arbor (OH) Wild Card Activity #9 — Arbor members hosted a hatmaking booth at Waterville’s Roche de Boeuf Festival. Youth Action Day #5 — Arbor members joined with a local Cub Scout pack to provide treats and toys for Lucas County Humane Society animals. CVR Activity #1 — Arbor members met at Shawn’s Irish Tavern and presented CVR awards to Don DiBartolomeo and Jaxon Sanchez. DiBartolomeo, founder and director of The Right Direction Youth Development Program, was recognized for helping youth through sports and mentorship programs and for raising funds for local schools. His nonprofit organization uses action sports such as BMX and skateboarding to help youth.
Findlay Flag City Arbor (OH) Health & Wellness Activity #7 — Arbor members welcomed Carolyn Curtis from the Holmes Law Office to speak about what senior citizens should know to protect their assets in the event of their death.
Glen Arbor (MI) Special Holiday Activity #10 — The arbor hosted a Thanksgiving luncheon for Clio area seniors. The arbor members planned, shopped, cooked and then served dinner to all 143 in attendance. Community Outreach Activity #6 — Arbor members hosted a booth at the Clio Candlewalk and raffled off two youth bicycles.
Dan Sutton presented a $1,000 check to the Lowell Volunteer Fire Department on behalf of Hawthorne Arbor (IN).
Grand Arbor (MI)
Gulf Coast Arbor (FL)
Community Outreach Activity #6 — The arbor hosted an afternoon at the Equest Center for Therapeutic Riding in Rockford. The arbor rented the center, and 50 people came through the doors. The children and adults had a wonderful time brushing, grooming and riding the horses. The arbor also provided a hot dog luncheon.
Health & Wellness Activity #7 — Arbor members met at Robert L. Taylor complex for a Zumba class with certified Zumba instructor Silvia Rodriguez. Youth Action Day #5 — Arbor members teamed with youth to work at St. Jude Church’s Fall Festival. They served drinks, fruit and snacks; sang throughout the day; and sold raffle tickets. Wild Card Activity #9 — Arbor members donated toys for needy children to OneBlood.
Greater Flint Area Arbor (MI) Patriotic Activity #2 — Arbor members partnered with the VFW Hall in Burton, Michigan, to pack boxes for troops with the My Heart Supports the Troops patriotic organization. The arbor contributed 120 pairs of hand warmers to be included in packages sent during the cold weather season to U.S. soldiers in Afghanistan.
Harrison Arbor (OH) Mission for LIFE® #4 — Ruth Benien, arbor secretary, presented the Mission for LIFE® program.
Hawthorne Arbor (IN) Wild Card Activity #9 — The arbor invited the Lowell Volunteer Fire Department to a turkey and ham dinner and donated $1,000 to the department. At the same event, the arbor presented $100 checks and poultry purchased at the Lake County 4-H Fair to six local churches, three trustee offices, St. Jude Battered Women’s Shelter and Wings of Hope Women’s Shelter.
Heart of Florida Arbor (FL) Wild Card Activity #9 — The arbor hosted a Christmas party at the Rydberg home, where members collected over 50 toys for needy children. Greater Flint Area Arbor (MI) members worked with My Heart Supports the Troops for their ninthannual patriotic activity to send care packages to servicemen and women stationed in Afghanistan whose families are local.
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the Santa Parade in downtown Croswell, Michigan, with a lighted float that featured dancing Christmas trees.
Madison Arbor (MI)
Wild Card Activity #9 — Holland Arbor (OH) members met Mason, a Golden Labrador therapy dog, and donated $250 to Assistance Dogs of America to help offset the costs of the vital service these dogs provide.
Heritage Arbor (MI)
breathing while they waited the arrival of emergency medical crews and Dr. Paat.
Patriotic Activity #2 — The arbor hosted a dinner for veterans complete with entertainment provided by T.J. Craven, a 20-year-old college student. He mimicked the singing voices of Frank Sinatra, Charlie Rich, Roy Orbison and Johnny Cash. Several seniors danced as he sang.
Holland Arbor (OH) Patriotic Activity #2 — Dawn Heisler, director of Heroes in Action, spoke with the arbor about Military Support Outreach, which provides a wide range of services to military families. The arbor donated $250 toward the cause. Community Outreach Activity #6 — Arbor members helped at a volunteer medical clinic led by Dr. Richard Paat at Helping Hands Church. On Dec. 19, arbor President Jim Randall performed CPR on a young man who had stopped
Homer Township Oak Arbor (IL) Wild Card Activity #9 — Arbor members gathered at the Historic Village in Lockport, Illinois, where a Gleaner brick was inserted in the entrance walkway. Members enjoyed touring the village buildings, all of which were original to Will County, and listening to Andrea Zoelle, who gave a history lesson dressed in period attire.
Huron Shores Arbor (MI) Patriotic Activity #2 — Arbor members teamed with 166 sixth-grade students at Cros-Lex Middle School to make 245 holiday cards to send to a naval submarine base in Georgia. Community Outreach Activity #6 — The arbor participated in
Elderly Support Activity #8 — Homer Township Oak Arbor (IL) hosted its annual senior harvest, where seniors were given Gleaner bags to fill with fresh fruit and vegetables.
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Community Outreach Activity #6 — The arbor held its second-annual Trunk or Treat event with 15 registered vehicles, along with a Madison Township Fire Truck, a Lenawee County Sheriff Department patrol car and deputy, and a Michigan State Police vehicle manned by a state trooper. A record 853 people attended this year’s event, up from 600 last year. Mission for LIFE® #4 — The arbor met at J. Trees Cellars in Tecumseh to participate in Mission for LIFE® bingo.
Maple City Arbor (MI) Wild Card Activity #9 — Arbor members planned and supported Lenawee Therapeutic Riding for its annual Halloween event. Lenawee Therapeutic Riding provides therapeutic horseback riding and a specially designed program involving the use of horses and ponies to provide riding for physically and emotionally impaired individuals. Riders were encouraged to dress up for Halloween. Arbor members were stationed around the arena in “houses” with candy to pass out to the riders. The children trick-ortreated around the various houses. Community Outreach Activity #6 — Arbor members served over 95 lunches at the Daily Bread in Adrian, Michigan. The Daily Bread serves meals to the community with a mission to provide nutritious meals in a Christian, loving, nonjudgmental environment. Elderly Support Activity #8 — The arbor hosted and planned its
Youth Action Day #5 — Mill Creek Arbor (IN) members teamed with students at New Prairie Middle School to put together gift bags for pediatric patients and make crafts for nursing home residents.
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North Central Michigan Arbor (MI) members helped volunteers warm up at the Gladwin County Christmas Kindness community day. They handed out hot cocoa and cookies on the frigid day.
annual Thanksgiving pie celebration at the Adrian Senior Center, where 145 seniors enjoyed a free lunch by the arbor.
Rolling Prairie Arbor (IN) presented CVR awards to Riley Moody (youth) Mike Schultz (adult) and Mariann Midlar (senior). Indiana state Rep. Jim Pressel and his wife, Becky, attended.
Marion Arbor (MI)
Orchard Arbor (MI)
Community Outreach Activity #6 — Arbor members presented a roast beef dinner buffet for the Marion Food pantry.
Patriotic Activity #2 — The arbor hosted a veterans appreciation breakfast at Raider’s Coney Island. A total of 67 people attended, joining 24 veterans for a free breakfast in their honor.
Mount Pleasant Arbor (MI) Community Outreach Activity #6 — Arbor members met at the ice arena in Mt. Pleasant on Saturday, Dec. 17, for their community skating party. All in attendance received a ticket for a free pop and chips, and if they made a donation to the food pantry, they received a ticket for the drawing for skating passes and McDonald’s and Celebration Cinema gift cards.
Youth enjoyed the Trunk or Treat event hosted by Orchard Arbor (MI).
North Central Michigan Arbor (MI)
Plank Road Arbor (MI)
Health & Wellness Activity #7 — Arbor members served as race traffic monitors at the 5K run/walk for the Beaverton Activity Center. They also donated $500 to the center.
Ober Arbor (IN) Health & Wellness Activity #7 — Deb Winter of the Purdue Extension Service provided a food demonstration for arbor members. She turned a plain lettuce salad into a more nutritional dish by adding such things as apples, cranberries and nuts.
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Ron Singleton presented a donation to Irene Szakonyi of the Starke County Youth Club on behalf of Ober Arbor (IN).
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Youth Action Day #5 — Arbor members hosted a hands-on historical event for local Cub Scouts at Breckenridge-Wheeler Area Historical Society. They set up six stations, including old-fashioned lawn mower, cross-cut saw, corn sheller, stilts and sack races. The arbor donated $100 to both Boy Scout Troop 600 and the historical society. Patriotic Activity #2 — Arbor members passed out American flags at a high school assembly to honor veterans. Elderly Support Activity #8 — The arbor prepared and served a dinner for residents and their families at Heart’s Content Adult Care Center.
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Sulphur Springs Arbor (IL) members wore their Gleaner T-shirts to a recent meeting.
Portage Center Arbor (OH)
South County Arbor (IN)
Environmental Activity #3 — The arbor hosted a booth at the Elmwood Elementary Fall Festival. Members provided doughnut holes and cider for the students, told them about Gleaner and read them fall stories from super-sized books from the school library. Elderly Support Activity #8 — The arbor met at the B.G. Manor Nursing Home to run an hour of bingo for residents.
CVR Activity #1 — The arbor recognized three individuals with CVR awards at its annual Christmas party. Jim Pressel, a newly elected state representative, presented the awards to Nick Biegel (youth), Patti Jo Hamilton (adult) and Diana Werner (senior).
Riley Creek Arbor (OH) Elderly Support Activity #8 — The arbor prepared and provided a luncheon for the Bluffton Senior Citizens Center on Dec. 12.
Rivertown Arbor (MI) Mission for LIFE® #4 — The arbor gathered for a Mission for LIFE® presentation. Patriotic Activity #2 — The arbor prepared snacks to hand out at the USO at O’Hare Airport in Chicago. The snacks included a note that said, “Thank you for your service. The Rivertown Arbor #773.”
Saginaw Arbor (MI) Patriotic Activity #2 — The arbor hosted a dinner at Trillium Banquet Center to honor veterans in the Saginaw community. In addition to a buffet dinner, the evening included music and a poetry reading.
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South Fairfield Arbor (MI/OH)
water, juice and healthy snacks. The arbor also had a booth with crafts and activities recommended by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Wild Card Activity #9 — The arbor provided volunteers and lunch for the volunteers for a mobile food pantry put on by the Monroe County United Way chapter.
Sulphur Springs Arbor (IL) Community Outreach Activity #6 — The arbor hosted a booth at the Coal City Octoberfest, where 380 individuals signed up for gift drawings. CVR Activity #1 — The arbor recognized CVR award winners Chandler Norton (youth), Cherie Sieger (adult) and Christine Walters (senior).
Wild Card Activity #9 — The arbor purchased coats and boots for children at Evergreen Elementary School. Patriotic Activity #2 — The arbor donated 120 dozen cookies decorated in red, white and blue to children to enjoy following a Veterans Day program and presentation of the colors by Lyons VFW. CVR Activity #1 — The arbor recognized CVR award recipients Rachel Jordan (youth), Sue Clendenin (adult) and Vicki and Paul Barnes (senior) at its holiday dinner. The arbor also presented $500 donations to several organizations, including Metamora Amboy Fire Department, Richfield Township Fire Department, Camp Palmer and the Fulton County Fair Foundation.
Youth Action Day #5 — Arbor members set up a pachinko game at the annual Appleumpkin Festival in downtown Tecumseh, which was attended by 2,603 individuals. Patriotic Activity #2 — Arbor members packed goody bags for patients at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Ann Arbor.
Stateline Arbor (MI)
USA Arbor (MI)
Community Outreach Activity #6 — The arbor participated in Bedford Township’s first Out of the Darkness Suicide Prevention Walk. Arbor members walked and provided
Youth Action Day #5 — The arbor worked with the SuperHeroes in Training 4-H Club to make “busy blankets” for adults with dementia. The youth worked with Gleaner volunteers to design the blankets, selecting from a plentiful supply of
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Tecumseh Arbor (MI)
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Youth from the SuperHeroes in Training 4-H group teamed with USA Arbor (MI) members to make “busy blankets” for seniors with dementia.
materials that included fur, leather, satin, ribbons, crinkly wrap, buttons, zippers, Velcro, belts, stuffed animals, flowers, beads, etc. The group made seven blankets. The arbor also made a donation to the SuperHeroes in Training 4-H Club. Wild Card Activity #9 — The arbor sponsored an assembly at the USA Elementary School called Positively Rockin’, with performer Guy Louis, who introduced the difference between acoustic and electric instruments. Elderly Support Activity #8 — The arbor teamed with the SuperHeroes in Training 4-H Club to visit the Vada Villa Adult Foster Care Home in Unionville, Michigan, where they sang Christmas carols.
Vulcaneer Arbor (MI) Health & Wellness Activity #7 — The arbor organized a walkathon at Central Elementary School, where 403 students walked for an hour. Community Outreach Activity #6 — The arbor hosted a trivia night to help raise money for the middle school media center at Vassar Public Schools. Wild Card Activity #9 — The arbor provided cut-out cookies for the community school play, “Annie,” held at Vassar High School. Elderly Support Activity #8 — Arbor members dressed in festive sweaters and spent an afternoon spreading Christmas cheer for elderly in their community. They caroled at six homes, where they also delivered goody boxes and visited with local families. gl eanerlife.org
Patriotic Activity #2 — Gleaner youth from Vulcaneer Arbor (MI) completed sidewalk chalk art to welcome veterans to a breakfast and Veterans Day ceremony, where the high school band played patriotic music and read poems.
West Lockport Arbor (IL) Environmental Activity #3 — Arbor members collected small electronic items to recycle at the Will Count Forest Preserve site in an effort to keep electronics out of landfills. Health & Wellness Activity #7 — A spin instructor demonstrated a fun way to exercise.
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Arbors reported the following donations: Alma Arbor (MI): $1,000 to Hemlock High School Drama Club Birch Run Arbor (MI): $1,000 (4-H Helping Hands) Black Swamp Arbor (OH): $100 to Riley Children’s Foundation Bowling Green Arbor (OH): $300 to Montessori School of Bowling Green Capital Arbor (MI): $400 to Michigan Wounded and Returning Warriors
Greater Flint Area Arbor (MI): $100 to Humane Society of Genesee County, $100 to Catholic Charities, $100 to My Heart Supports the Troops Gulf Coast Arbor (FL): $1,000 to Priscilla Granados Harmony Arbor (MI): $100 to Alma United Methodist Church Harrison Arbor (OH): $250 to Henry County Hospital Foundation, $500 to Layne Knapp Benefit
Community Arbor (IN): $500 to Steve Treat, $500 to the Buchanan family
Hawthorne Arbor (IN): $500 to Prime Beefmakers 4-H Club, $500 to Lake County 4-H Club committee, $100 to Wings of Hope
Crystal Lake Arbor (MI): $200 to Elberta United Methodist Church, $200 to Trinity Lutheran Church, $200 to Alzheimer’s Association, $250 to Benzie County Veterans Memorial
Heart of Florida Arbor (FL): $1,000 to Elder Point Ministries
Emerald Echo Arbor (OH): $900 to Louisville Food Bank Florida Arbor (OH): $100 to OFCCLA Endowment Fund, $100 to Henry County Chorale, $100 to Henry County veterans Floyd Arbor (MI): $100 to Humane Society of Midland Glen Arbor (MI): $1,000 to Janet Hall, $100 to Clio Human Services, $125 to Camp Copneconic Grand Blanc Arbor (MI): $1,000 to the Leah Underwood family, $500 to the Flying Turtles FTC Junior High School Robotics Team
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Heritage Arbor (MI): $100 to Alzheimer’s Walk, $300 to Otisville Historic Museum, $125 to Camp Copneconic-Rekindle the Fire Holland Arbor (OH): $500 to Ryan Gilsdorf (Caring Hands) Homer Township Oak Arbor (IL): $100 to Homer Glenn Foundation Mill Creek Arbor (IN): $500 to Hayden’s Helping Hounds, $750 to Salvation Army Mount Pleasant Arbor (MI): $150 to Life Choices, $200 to Smooth Surfaces North Baltimore Arbor (OH): $250 to Tyler Trumbull for daughter’s medical bills
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Oakwood Arbor (OH): $200 to Encompass World Partners Ober Arbor (IN): $1,000 to Starke County Youth Club, $1,000 to 4-H Endowment of Starke Foundation Portage Center Arbor (OH): $150 each to 20 nonprofit organizations, including Bowling Green Pregnancy Center, Habitat for Humanity of Wood County, Hospice of NW Ohio, Kings Daughters & Sons, DARE Program of Wood County Sheriff, Black Swamp Young Life, Cocoon Shelter, Bridge Home and Health Hospice, Bowling Green Christian Food Pantry, Wayne Public Library, Salvation Army, Serenity Farms, The Daughter Project, Elmwood High School Band, Wood County Suicide Prevention Center, North Baltimore Community Food Pantry, The Friendly Center, Wood County 4-H Program, Martha’s Kitchen and Elmwood High School FFA Rolling Prairie Arbor (IN): $250 to New Prairie Choir, $100 to Alzheimer’s Association, $1,000 to GHKW Community Food Pantry, $500 to New Day Foundation, $300 to Toys for Tots, $500 to Boys and Girls Club, $500 to Sandcastle Homeless Shelter, $1,000 to VFW Post 9423, $750 to LaPorte County Special Education Co-op Saginaw Arbor (MI): $1,000 to Dave Stoppa South County Arbor (IN): $500 to Tammy Smith (Caring Hands), $500 to Phil Rodrieuz (Caring Hands), $200 to Boy Scout Troop 810 South Fairfield Arbor (OH): $200 to Berkey Congregational Church, $100 to Fulton County Soil and Water, $300 to Village of Metamora
g lea ner life.org
Snowbird spring training
ballgame and picnic
Gleaner Life’s annual snowbird ballgame and picnic are right around the corner. The baseball game between the Detroit Tigers and New York Yankees is sold out, but you can still join us for the picnic. The picnic takes place Sunday, March 5, at the Resort and Club at Little Harbor. Gleaner is providing all of the food, so guests do not need to bring a dish to pass. Guests can bring canned food donations or donate $5 for a chance to win a gift card. All donations will benefit Our Lady of Guadalupe Food Pantry. The picnic begins at 1 p.m. Participants can register online at www.gleanerlife.org/snowbirdpicnic. Those traveling to Florida can take advantage of discounted rates at The Inn at Little Harbor in Ruskin. All rooms include two beds, mini-refrigerator, coffeemaker and microwave. First-floor rooms feature a patio, while secondfloor rooms have a private balcony.
Standard double Two double beds; $110 per night, plus 12% sales tax and $8 resort fee. Deluxe queen
Two queen beds; $119 per night, plus 12% sales tax and $8 resort fee.
To register, call 813.645.3291 and tell them you are registering for the Gleaner Life Insurance Society retreat March 3-4. Booking agents are available 24/7 to help you schedule your getaway. Visit www.gleanerlife.org/florida for more information!
gl eanerlife.org
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Nonprofit Organization U.S. POSTAGE PAID ADRIAN, MI 49221 PERMIT NO. 1894
5200 West U.S. Highway 223, P.O. Box 1894 Adrian, Michigan 49221-7894
SNAP a photo of your arbor doing great things.
SHARE your photo with the
Community Engagement Department.
WIN a chance to receive $250 for your arbor.
We want to share your photos to promote all of the ways you are making positive impacts within your community. To do that, Gleaner needs a bigger pool of photos to share in publications and through social media. Each quarter, two arbors will be chosen at random to win a choice of Gleaner promo items equal to $250, Gleaner/arbor polo shirts for active arbor members or a $250 donation to a charity of the arbor’s choice. For every photo (one per event) submitted, your arbor will receive an entry in the quarterly drawing. An arbor may only win one time per year. Look for more details to follow.