Smoky Mountains
In this issue: Florida Snowbird Recap Gleaner Getaway Trip to New England & Cape Cod Kalahari Registration Opens May 1
Tim Mainiero/Bigstock.com
Florida Snowbird Events Spring Training Baseball Gleaner members are invited to our 2016 Spring Training Baseball event at Joker Marchant Stadium in Lakeland, Florida. Members and guests will watch the Detroit Tigers take on the New York Yankees on Friday, March 4, at 1:05 p.m. Tickets have already sold out to this popular event. If you are interested in attending, contact the Fraternal Department at fraternal@gleanerlife.org or call 800.992.1894 to be placed on a waiting list.
The Arbor Newsletter is published bi-monthly by Kevin A. Marti President and CEO
Snowbird Picnic
Fraternal Department
The 27th Annual Snowbird Picnic takes place Monday, March 7, 2016, at Columbus Hall, 4880 Fruitville Road, Sarasota, Florida. Our picnics combine food, fun and fellowship for Gleaner members and guests of all ages. At this potluck event, Gleaner provides Perry’s fabulous barbecue chicken, and guests are asked to bring their own table service and a generous dish to share. Entertainment will feature a Chinese auction. Attendees who bring an item for the auction valued at $20 or more can purchase an auction ticket for half price. All proceeds from the auction will be donated to a local charity of Bay Area Arbor’s choice.
Sherry L. Nino Vice President, Fraternal Operations
Michelle Horn Fraternal Manager
Jaime Linden Fraternal Engagement Coordinator
Benny’s Box Auctions at Summer Picnics
Jessica Vasher Sr. Fraternal Specialist
Benny’s Box Auction will give picnic guests a chance to take home an auction item. Instead of bidding a specific dollar amount on an item, guests can purchase tickets and enter as many of those tickets as they like in an item’s corresponding box. At the end of the auction, a ticket is drawn from each box, and the item goes to the individual with the winning ticket. Attendees who bring an item for the auction valued at $20 or more can purchase an auction ticket for half price. All proceeds from the auction will be donated to local charities.
Kirsten Stiver Fraternal Specialist
Fraternal Committee Sherry L. Nino Chair
Stephanie Andresen Gleoma Arbor (NE)
Resolution of
Karen Lowder
Sorrow presented
Capital Arbor (MI)
Deb Rydberg
to family of
Heart of Florida Arbor (FL)
Dianne Oldenburg
Richard Bennett
Summit Arbor (OH)
Dan Sutton
In the last issue of the The Arbor Newsletter, Gleaner Life announced with deep sadness that longtime board member Richard Bennett passed away in October 2015. Following the fraternal benefit society’s custom, his wife Jeannie Bennett was honored with a framed Resolution of Sorrow.
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 gleaner@gleanerlife.org fraternal@gleanerlife.org This bi-monthly publication of the Fraternal Department is written and designed by the Marketing Department staff at Gleaner’s Home Office.
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Arbor Activities
Joe Rogers and Joanne Williams of the Wildlife Recovery Association show Alma Arbor (MI) members some of the birds they help heal and release to the wild.
Get Your Arbor Recognized #9 — Bay Area Arbor (FL) members gather with volunteers at the Sun City Emergency Squad to present a check for $1,000. The arbor also provided coffee and doughnuts.
Alma Arbor (MI) Community Project #10, Animal Support #11, Healthy Lifestyle and Safety Activity #20 — Arbor members listened to Tammy Griffin, who made a presentation on surviving the holidays. She provided healthy eating tips to help members get through holiday gatherings. At Griffin’s request, the arbor donated $100 to the community cafe at First Presbyterian Church in Alma. Toni Davis of Michigan Works also made a presentation on how to prepare and dress for job interviews. The arbor also donated $100 to the Wildlife Recovery Association.
Bavarian Arbor (MI)
Bavarian Arbor (MI) members make butterhorn baked goods with residents of Bethesda Group Home. The arbor also baked with residents of an adult transition center.
The arbor helped plan, finance and host four events at the Frankenmuth Corn Maze in October. Historical Site #13, Youth Organization Activity #22 — Arbor members helped the Michigan Barn Preservation Network in a barn-raising at the maze. Seventeen children and 10 adults participated. Benevolent Fund Outreach Activity #8, Educating Youth
#12 — The arbor sponsored two performances by Todd Charles, The Moogician, for Frankenmuth and Millington elementary students. The presentation covered proper nutrition and physical activity, and the positive impact of dairy farms. Members helped set up for the event attended by 247 children and 115 adults. Community Project #10, Youth
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Organization Activity #22, Special Holiday Project #23 — Members set up and hosted TractOR Treating. More than 150 children attended and received a bag of candy along with a coupon for free entry to the maze. Get Your Arbor Recognized #9, Animal Support #11 — The arbor planned a pet day at the maze, and the arbor’s banner was on display. J a n u a r y/Fe br u a r y 2 016
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Birch Run Arbor (MI) President Jan Pollard presents a check for $1,000 to Robbie McKinnon, son of arbor member Bob McKinnon, who is recovering from surgery.
Bring-a-Guest Event #1, CSR Award & Membership Pin #2, Invite an Elected Official #19 — The arbor presented CSR Awards to Dr. Maurice Chapin (senior), David Traubenkraut (adult) and Aiden Harmon (youth). Jim McLoskey presented a certificate to each recipient on behalf of state Sens. Ken Horn and Mike Green. Patriotic Activity #3, Educating Youth #12, Special Holiday Project #23 — The arbor invited students from Kirk Elementary and St. Paul Lutheran School to tour Michigan’s Own. The museum is dedicated to honoring those who served in the military and space program. Members shared memories of their own military service with the children.
Bay Area Arbor (FL) Elderly Support Activity #21 — The arbor purchased gift cards for Schaumburg’s Barn Senior Program at the 57th Biennial Convention. Community Project #10, Invite an Elected Public Official #19 — The arbor held its annual Trunk & Treat with Movies program at the Ruskin Community Park on Oct. 30. More than 500 children and other visitors attended. Benevolent Fund Outreach Activity #8 — Members participated in an Arbor Angel Tree program, where they provided presents for children. The arbor donated $3,375 toward the effort.
Preschool students from Montessori School of Bowling Green participate in a pumpkin hunt sponsored by Bowling Green Arbor (OH).
in the air to how oils can knock out toxins and be used instead of over-the-counter drugs to treat aches and pains. Benevolent Fund Outreach Activity #8 — The arbor sponsored a lock-in with the students, parents and staff of Marshall Green Middle School. The event included activities such as dancing, sports, movies and just hanging out — with plenty to eat. Special Holiday Project #23 — During November, the arbor worked with the early college students from Birch Run High School/Delta College’s Family Living class to provide Thanksgiving dinner for six needy families. The student group contacted local churches to identify families and created a menu of healthy food for a Thanksgiving dinner. They also created a budget, shopped and delivered the meals. Get Your Arbor Recognized #9, Community Project #10, Educating Youth #12 —
The arbor collaborated with the community to plan and construct a greenhouse. Arbor members and other volunteers were able to get the poles in the ground and the frame up. They plan to complete the structure and plant in the spring. Arbor members traveled to Corcoran House in Mt. Morris and invited the women’s residential clients and staff to join in making homemade laundry soap, which was donated to the center.
Black Swamp Arbor (OH) CSR Award & Membership Pin #2, Learning as an Arbor #14, Invite an Elected Public Official #19 — The arbor presented CSR Awards to Cheryl Sanderson (senior), Jim McCullough (adult) and Abram Klopfenstein (youth). They received clocks, Gleaner books and a pin. Also in
Birch Run Arbor (MI) Learning as an Arbor #14, Healthy Lifestyle and Safety Activity #20 — Arbor members learned about the health benefits of essential oils, from diffusing oils 3
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Caring Hands #17 — Capital Arbor (MI) presents a $1,000 check to Sgt. Jason Fuller to help with the cost of cancer treatments for his daughter.
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Special Holiday Project #23 — Caro Arbor (MI) members wrap presents for a family they adopted for the Christmas season.
Veterans from Miller’s Vet Farm shared stories and information about their service with members of Center Township Arbor (IN).
recognition of the three recipients, the arbor donated $200 to the fire department, Paulding County 4-H and Pretty in Pink Elaine Manz Memorial Cancer Fund. Historical Site #13 — Arbor members decorated a Gleaner Tree for the museum’s annual Festival of Trees fundraiser. Special Holiday Project #23 — Arbor members purchased $300 worth of groceries and personal care products and delivered them to the Convoy, Paulding and Payne food banks.
Capital Arbor (MI)
Bowling Green Arbor (OH) Educating Youth #12 — The arbor treated preschool students of Montessori School of Bowling Green to a pumpkin hunt on school property. An arbor member then read stories to the children, who were treated to doughnut holes and apple juice. Historical Site #13 — Arbor members participated in the Garrison Ghost Walk at Fort Meigs in Perrysburg, Ohio. Arbor members served as guides on a “spirited” stroll through the reconstructed 1812 fort. Animal Support #11, Special Holiday Project #23 — Andrew Snyder of the Wood County Dog Warden office attended an arbor meeting and told members about the shelter. Friends of the Wood County Dog Shelter are beginning a new program to make sure all adoptable dogs are vaccinated. Wild Card #24 — The arbor worked with Heroes in Action to provide a military family with a Christmas that would not be possible without their help. The Marine family has seven children ages 2 to 21. In addition to gifts for everyone to open on Christmas, the arbor provided a bountiful food basket for the holidays. gl eane rlife.org
Wild Card #24 — Arbor members donated a tote and gift card to the Schaumburg Food Pantry at the 57th Biennial Convention. CSR Award & Membership Pin #2, Patriotic Activity #3, Mission for LIFE® #5, Invite an Elected Public Official #19 — The arbor recognized Norma Parker, a 75-year Gleaner member, as well as CSR Award winners, including Asia Ruiz-Newton (youth), police officer Traci Ruiz (adult) and Dr. Lynn Brumm (senior) at its annual banquet that also honored veterans. Community Project #10, Elderly Support Activity #21, Special Holiday Project #23 — The arbor hosted a Christmas party and bingo night at Vista Springs for 36 guests.
Caro Arbor (MI) Benevolent Fund Outreach Activity #8 — The arbor hosted a day at Kramer Farm for students from Highland Pines, a school for mentally and physically impaired children, to enjoy fishing and hayrides, see trained dogs and have lunch. McDonald’s in Caro donated drinks, Thumb Cellular donated portable toilets and Walmart donated $50 for fishing poles. This is a special event for the kids and adults. Members of the Caro High School Robotics Team volunteered. The arbor also donated $100 to the robotics team. Patriotic Activity #3 — The arbor sponsored breakfast for an assembly at Bad Axe Middle School to honor area veterans, award students for poster and writing contests, and sing songs. The arbor also bought cookies and juice for local veterans T h e A r b o r Ne w s le t te r
who visited classrooms at Caro Elementary School and shared their stories. Elderly Support Activity #21 — The arbor donated money for a Christmas Day dinner for seniors.
Center Township Arbor (IN) Patriotic Activity #3 — The arbor visited Miller’s Vet Farm, where veterans shared stories and information about their service. Cider and doughnuts were provided, and the arbor presented the veterans with coffee, razor blades, laundry soap and other items they needed. Educating Youth #12, Invite an Elected Public Official #19, Special Holiday Project #23 — Indiana state Rep. David Niegzodski attended the December meeting and shared discussion of education issues, infrastructure and other concerns presented by members. The arbor wrapped gifts for a local needy family and donated $100 worth of items to LaVille Elementary School.
Chester Arbor (OH) Get Your Arbor Recognized #9, Community Project #10 — The arbor hosted a kettle corn booth at the Friends of Cardington’s Halloween event. Members helped prepare bags of popcorn to sell to adults and small bags to give out to children who participated in the Halloween events. Patriotic Activity #3 — Ryan Lawson and Christian Vansque of the Veterans Office of Morrow County spoke about programs for veterans, including assistance provided at no cost. Members decorated tables with American pocket J a n u a r y/Fe br u a r y 2 016
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education center. Get Your Arbor Recognized #9, Educating Youth #12, Youth Organization Activity #22 — Members chaperoned fourth- and fifthgrade students from Fairview Elementary School on a tour of Purdue University to learn the history of the university. That evening, members and students took part in the tour and Christmas show at Purdue, where they wore Gleaner Life lanyards.
Crystal Lake Arbor (MI)
Elderly Support Activity #21, Special Holiday Project #23 —Chester Arbor (OH) members prepared 100 Christmas gift boxes, labeled with the arbor’s name, for senior citizens.
calendars and mints as favors for those in attendance. A delicious meal was served prior to the program, which included recognition of all branches of service and a remembrance of those veterans who had passed away in the last year. The arbor presented $100 to both the American Legion and the Veterans of Morrow County. Community Project #10, Special Holiday Project #23 — Members helped Mt. Gilead Girl and Boy Scouts with an annual Thanksgiving food drive. Students brought in canned food with a total of 1,185 items donated. The winning class collected 370 items and celebrated with a pizza party. Members donated $1,200 and, with the Scouts, loaded the food onto a truck for delivery to the Trinity Methodist food pantry. Get Your Arbor Recognized #9 — Members helped prepare and serve the Christmas meal at Whetstone Industries for organizations that support Whetstone’s programs, county elected officials and families of clients. A delicious meal with all the trimmings was served, followed by an afternoon of music and dancing.
Get Your Arbor Recognized #9, Community Project #10 — The arbor donated $500 to help build the Benzie County Veterans Memorial. Patriotic Activity #3 — Members purchased gas cards and bus tickets to help veterans with transportation costs. The arbor also bought gloves and hats for veterans. Bring-a-Guest Event #1, CSR Award & Membership Pin #2, Invite an Elected Public Official #19 — The arbor honored Gaylord Jowett with the CSR Award. State Rep. Ray Franz and Frankfort American Legion Post members attended the luncheon. Mission for LIFE® #5 — Norm Woltjer led the new Mission for LIFE® (MFL) bingo presentation to get attendees engaged.
Emerald Echo Arbor (OH) Gaylord Jowett (middle) holds the CSR Award he received from Crystal Lake Arbor (MI) with state Rep. Ray Franz (left) and Arbor Secretary Norris Cutler (right).
Special Holiday Project #23 — Arbor members met with Louisville Community Meal Center to purchase $100 worth of turkeys for the center’s Thanksgiving meal.
Community Arbor (IN)
Findlay Flag City Arbor (OH)
CSR Award & Membership Pin #2, Community Project #10, Invite an Elected Official #19 — The arbor honored three individuals with CSR Awards: Brad McQuire, Marilynn Skinner and Isabella Smith. Members donated paint and supplies to Marilynn Skinner to be used for creating murals at a local childhood
Healthy Lifestyle and Safety Activity #20 — The arbor welcomed Molly Kaiser, a registered dietitian from Blanchard Valley Hospital, who talked about healthy eating. Special Holiday Project #23 — The arbor purchased and donated $100 worth of hams to Open Arms Domestic Violence Shelter, Hope House and City Mission.
Gleaner Scholarship recipients announced May 1 The application deadline for 2016 Gleaner Scholarships ended Feb. 1. Gleaner will announce the winners on its website on May 1. 5
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Elderly Support Activity #21 — Pinecrest Farms residents enjoy fresh fruit provided by Floyd Arbor (MI).
Grand Arbor (MI) sponsored an event at the Equest Center for Therapeutic Riding in Rockford, where participants learned how to ride horses safely.
Florida Arbor (OH)
Gleoma Arbor (NE)
Community Project #10 — Members packed a Treasure Tote to give to WINGS for the 57th Biennial Convention.
Special Holiday Project #23 — The arbor held its ninth annual Christmas Shopping with Kids event. Almost 90 volunteers helped 60 deserving children with exceptional needs go Christmas shopping. The arbor provided breakfast and snacks, and lunch was donated by Villagio Pizzeria. One family of four siblings who recently lost their home in a fire were tempted to buy toys, but were more concerned with household items like blankets and silverware. One of the children purchased a blender as a Christmas gift for his mother. The children loved the opportunity to contribute to their family’s Christmas. The arbor also provided $300 worth of goody bags with essentials like toothpaste and toothbrushes.
Floyd Arbor (MI) Community Project #10, Learning as an Arbor #14 — The arbor sponsored Night of the Zombies Family Fun, a Halloween party at the Creative 360 Center. Prior to the party, members toured the center.
Glen Arbor (MI) Get Your Arbor Recognized #9, Elderly Support Activity #21, Special Holiday Project #23 — The arbor hosted a special Thanksgiving luncheon at the Clio Senior Center. Historical Site #13 — Arbor members enjoyed viewing all of the memorabilia and hearing local stories on a tour of the Clio Historical Museum. The arbor donated $100.
Patriotic Activity #3, Community Project #10 — Glen Arbor (MI) members pass out green light bulbs as part of the Green Light for a Vet initiative.
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Grand Arbor (MI) Wild Card #24 — The arbor packed and donated a Treasure Tote for the 57th Biennial Convention. Benevolent Fund Outreach Activity #8, Animal Support #11, Learning as an Arbor #14, Healthy Lifestyle and Safety Activity #20 — The arbor hosted an event at the Equest Center for Therapeutic Riding in Rockford, where participants learned how to ride horses safely. The arbor donated $1,100 to the center. Elderly Support Activity #21, Youth Organization Activity #22, Special Holiday Project #23 — Children and seniors worked together to sort and pack food for three needy families.
Benevolent Fund Outreach Activity #8, Get Your Arbor Recognized #9 — Greater Flint Area Arbor (MI) purchased presents for needy families at the Shelter of Flint. Members (left to right) Janice Spinney, Mary Jane Ford, Millie Wint, Gary Cox, Ann Cox and Sheila Matthews
Grand Blanc Arbor (MI) Educating Youth #12, Youth Organization Activity #22 — The arbor participated in ExtraLife, an activity with the Grand Blanc High School Robotics Team. This event unites thousands of players around the world in a 24-hour gaming marathon to support Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. The group raised approximately $4,200.
Greater Flint Area Arbor (MI) If you would like to help Flint residents who are in need during the water crisis, consider contacting Greater Flint Area Arbor to organize bottled water or gift card donations. Patriotic Activity #3 — Arbor members packed boxes for the My Heart Supports the Troops patriotic organization.
Gulf Coast Arbor (FL) Bring-a-Guest Event #1, Get Your Arbor Recognized #9, Community Project #10 — The arbor invited people to donate blood at a festival at St. Jude.
Harmony Arbor (MI) Learning as an Arbor #14 — The arbor welcomed local historian Dave McMacken,
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Patriotic Activity #3 —Gulf Coast Arbor (FL) members prepare personal care baskets for the Jewish Community Center, which supports homeless veterans.
Healthy Lifestyle and Safety Activity #20 — Janet Holt, Harmony Arbor (MI), presents a donation to Sue Kock, following her presentation on the Gratiot County Commission on Aging’s diabetes program.
Harrison Arbor (OH) members enjoyed a Christmas dinner at the Log Cabin Tavern. From left are Bob Long, Santa Claus, Cooper Unverferth and Barb Long. Cooper is the greatgrandson of Bob and Barb Long, and he has a Just For Kids® certificate.
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Hawthorne Arbor (IN) members pose with members of Lake Dale Volunteer Fire Department after they received a donation from the arbor.
Community Project #10 —Heritage Arbor (MI) members present gifts to Davison Outreach East children.
Community Project #10 — Heart of Florida Arbor (FL) members participate in an Alzheimer’s awareness walk and raised $250.
who spoke about how the highway system was developed in Gratiot County.
Community Project #10 — Arbor members helped wrap Christmas presents for children at St. Paul’s.
Harrison Arbor (OH) Community Project #10 — Arbor members sent letters to churches, companies and other businesses to ask for donations to put together over 600 food baskets for people in need in the county. Mission for LIFE® #5 — Gleaner agent Jerel Fish gave a MFL presentation to arbor members. Patriotic Activity #3, Special Holiday Project #23 — The arbor, together with Florida Arbor, welcomed guests Dawn and Trent Heisler of Heroes in Action. Dawn shared that Heroes in Action helps 20,000 families with Christmas baskets through the Red Cross and helps servicemen and women with housing and other needs when they return home. Trent Heisler attended as a veteran. The arbor donated $200 to Heroes in Action.
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Arbor (IN)
Bring-a-Guest Event #1, Invite an Elected Public Official #19 — The arbor welcomed members of the Lake Dale Volunteer Fire Department and their spouses to a turkey and ham dinner. The arbor presented a $1,000 check to Lake Dale Fire Chief Mel Feely.
Heart of Florida Arbor (FL) Elderly Support Activity #21, Youth Organization Activity #22 — The arbor joined Mulberry Kiwanis, and they were assisted by the Mulberry High School Key Club, to provide a community event honoring area seniors. There were games, entertainment and a barbecue lunch. g lea ner life.o rg
Patriotic Activity #3 — The arbor helped prepare and serve a luncheon for veterans. Learning as an Arbor #14 — The arbor welcomed Rachel O’Gaian of Good Shepherd Hospice who provided information and supporting materials recognizing the volunteers at local hospice services.
Homer Township Oak Arbor (IL) Educating Youth #12 — Members participated in the Shark Tank project at Meadow Ridge School. Community Project #10, Special Holiday Project #23 — Members met at the Gladys Fox Museum to help decorate Christmas trees for the Lockport Festival of Lights. Get Your Arbor Recognized #9, Animal Support #11 — Arbor members decorated the town hall and hosted the annual Pet Pictures with Santa event benefiting a. local animal shelter.
bracelets. Children were able to visit and have their pictures taken with Santa and his reindeer.
Lakeshore Arbor (MI) Animal Support #11 — Members purchased a fence post in the arbor’s name at the Critter Barn’s new facility. Community Project #10, Educating Youth #12, Special Holiday Project #23 — Members identified four needy families and agencies to help during the holiday season. The arbor purchased four $100 gift cards for groceries and $100 in gift cards for teens.
Law Arbor (MI) Animal Support #11 — Members met for lunch and a presentation by Deb Davis of Paws With A Cause. After lunch, Davis and Seymour, a golden retriever assistance dog, gave the history of Paws With A Cause, which started by training a dog for a hearing impaired person. It currently trains dogs for many physical disabilities. Members learned a great deal from the presentation. President Glen Emmendorfer presented Davis with a $500 donation. Get Your Arbor Recognized #9, Community Project #10 — Members met at the North Tittabawassee Township Park to support volunteers who put up a musical Christmas display for the community. The arbor provided hot beverages, doughnuts and cookies for the volunteers.
Huron Shores Arbor (MI) members helped with the annual Santa parade. One float featured a lighted doghouse with Snoopy riding on top.
Huron Shores Arbor (MI)
Patriotic Activity #3, Get Your Arbor Recognized #9, Community Project #10 — The arbor sponsored the American Red Cross Patriot Blood Drive. The goal of collecting 175 pints of blood was exceeded by 10 pints. The local radio station took a picture and posted it on its Twitter page. The arbor participated in a food drive to benefit Fishes and Loaves. A total of 188 pounds of food was collected. The arbor donated an additional $225. Bring-aGuest Event #1, Mission for LIFE® #5 — Mike Stuart gave a MFL presentation. Learning as an Arbor #14, Invite an Elected Official #19, Special Holiday Project #23 — Carol Lane, a retired nurse, presented on the nutritional value of foods.
Madison Arbor (MI) Community Project #10, Special Holiday Project #23 — The arbor hosted its inaugural Trunk or Treat event at Madison Schools. Fifteen vehicles participated including a local fire truck, police vehicle and a Sheriff’s Department vehicle. The arbor gave out a $50 Meijer gift card for the best decorated trunk, which went to past CSR Award recipient Kyle Ehinger. The arbor passed out raffle tickets to all children to be entered in a drawing to win a Halloween bag filled with candy, McDonald’s gift certificates, books and other items. The arbor provided free cider, cookies and cupcakes. Community
Jim and Julie Pfund accept a check on behalf of the Freeland United Methodist Church from president Glen Emmendorfer of Law Arbor (MI).
Learning as an Arbor #14 — Members met at Camp Cavall in Lexington, Michigan, where director Jill Laidlaw spoke about how the camp works with children and adults from different economic and social backgrounds. The camp features various weeklong programs, including leadership training, fishing, and outdoor adventures. Benevolent Fund Outreach Activity #8 — Members decorated the Croswell Community Center to prepare for the visit of Santa and Mrs. Claus. The event featured stations located throughout downtown offering free hot chocolate, s’mores, other treats, glow necklaces and jingle bell gl eane rlife.org
Lenawee Community Arbor (MI)
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Madison Arbor (MI) hosted its inaugural Trunk or Treat event. More than 500 members of the community participated.
with Girl Scouts at the Marion Area Historical Museum, where they provided materials for the girls to make Christmas crafts. The Scouts decorated birdhouses and miniature trunks with Christmas snow, bows and greenery. The arbor also provided snacks. Everyone toured the museum following the activity. Historical Site #13, Learning as an Arbor #14 — The arbor met at the Marion Area Historical Museum for a tour and to present the group with a $100 donation for supplies. Arbor members were able to view the new digital photo collection. The equipment and supplies for this project were previously donated by the arbor.
Mid Michigan Arbor (MI)
Wild Card #24 — Maple City Arbor (MI) hosted a free Thanksgiving dinner for seniors at the Adrian Senior Center.
Wild Card #24 — The arbor invited the Living and Learning Center to Johnson Pumpkin Farm for cider and doughnuts and a tour. Everyone enjoyed petting the animals. The day ended with a pumpkin being launched into the air. Special Holiday Project #23 — The arbor supported a family for Christmas with a gift basket and gift cards.
Mill Creek Arbor (IN) Project #10, Youth Organization Activity #22 — Members worked with 16 students of the Madison High School Interact Club to host a blood drive. The goal was to collect 40 units, and the event collected 44. The arbor provided snacks for participants and donated $200 to the Interact Club. Animal Support #11, Special Holiday Project #23 — The arbor hosted its annual Santa Paws, a fundraiser for the Lenawee Humane Society. The arbor took pictures of pets with Santa for a $5 donation to the humane society. The arbor also adopted a family from the Madison Giving Tree Project. This year’s family had six children ranging from 1 month to 17 years old. The total cost of donations exceeded $820.
the Lenawee County Mission. The leftover food from the arbor’s Christmas party was donated to Share the Warmth, a shelter that provides a warm place for the homeless during cold winter nights.
Marion Arbor (MI) Youth Organization Activity #22, Special Holiday Project #23 — The arbor met
Educating Youth #12, Learning as an Arbor #14 — The arbor welcomed Jenny Minich of the Spark Labs program at the LaPorte County Public Library who spoke about projects that have helped teach more science, art and other skills. The arbor also heard a presentation by Jim Musial about the Sand Castle Shelter, which helps families get on their feet through training opportunities. Special
Maple City Arbor (MI) Bring-a-Guest Event #1, Special Holiday Project #23 — The arbor assembled Socks of Love — new socks filled with toiletry items and candy — and delivered them to
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Get Your Arbor Recognized #9, Elderly Support Activity #21 — North Central Michigan Arbor (MI) decorated 33 dozen Christmas cookies with seniors at the Brookside Senior Center.
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Animal Support #11 —On behalf of Ober Arbor (IN), Cindy Sellers presents a donation to Whitney Howard and Shanna Lloyd of the Starke County Humane Society.
Portage Center Arbor (OH) members joined with Bowling Green Manor Nursing Home residents for an hour of bingo.
Holiday Project #23 — The arbor served dinner at the Sand Creek Homeless Shelter. Afterward, arbor members invited children to make Christmas cards and decorate cookies.
Livewires 4-H Club of Marshall County. Bring-a-Guest Event #1, Community Project #10 — The arbor hosted its annual Thanksgiving carry-in meal for members and guests.
Portage Center Arbor (OH)
North Baltimore Arbor (OH)
Plank Road Arbor (MI)
Special Holiday Project #23 — Arbor members participated in and funded an outreach holiday event at Maranatha Baptist Church called “Ring the Bells.”
Get Your Arbor Recognized #9, Healthy Lifestyle and Safety Activity #20 — The arbor sponsored the Huskie Hustle 5K event. To help promote the arbor, they donated T-shirts and candy bars featuring the Gleaner name. Members helped pass out water and shirts, check in runners and direct traffic around the course. This was a fundraiser event for the Breckenridge cross-country team. Patriotic Activity #3 — The arbor partnered with the Breckenridge Ladies Auxiliary for a balloon release in honor of veterans. Arbor members also purchased little flags and helped distribute them at the Breckenridge High School Veterans Day event.
North Central Michigan Arbor (MI) Youth Organization Activity #22 — The arbor donated a tote for the teen center in Schaumburg, Illinois, as part of the 57th Biennial Convention.
Oakwood Arbor (OH) Benevolent Fund Outreach Activity #8 — The arbor welcomed 20 youth from Pleasant View Missionary Church in Junction, Ohio, who sang songs. The arbor donated $50 to the group.
Mission for LIFE® #5 — The arbor played the MFL bingo game, led by Gleaner agent Jerel Fish, and awarded prizes. CSR Award & Membership Pin #2, Invite an Elected Public Official #19 — CSR Awards were handed out to Meghan Vestal (youth), Mark Chamberlain (adult) and Ralph Aufdenkamp (senior). They received clocks, certificates and insurance policies.
Rivertown Arbor (MI) Mission for LIFE® #5, Get Your Arbor Recognized #9 — Norm Woltjer gave a MFL presentation. The arbor also had its sign displayed in front of Marge’s Donut Den on busy 28th Street. Animal Support #11 — Arbor members toured the Humane Society of West Michigan. They brought donations such as blankets and towels and donated $100 for cleaning supplies. Patriotic Activity #3, Special Holiday Project #23 — Members put together a
Ober Arbor (IN) Historical Site #13, Learning as an Arbor #14 — The arbor met at the Gateway Depot on Highway 35 in Knox, Indiana, where they learned about the one-man watchman’s tower that stood on Pearl Street in 1927. It was restored and now stands across from the depot on Highway 35. The arbor donated stamps to the Starke County Museum and $100 to support the Plank Road Arbor (MI) members hand out refreshments at the Huskie Hustle 5K.
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package for the United Service Organization (USO), which offers a variety of services to active military personnel and their families at O’Hare International Airport in Chicago. The arbor also purchased gifts for the Toys for Tots Program.
Rolling Prairie Arbor (IN) Community Project #10, Invite an Elected Public Official #19, Special Holiday Project #23 — County assessor Mike Schultz attended the December meeting, where Marine Tim Vaughn gave a brief history of the Toys for Tots program. Locally 10,000 children were given toys last year. Schultz collected the arbor’s toy donations and a $225 arbor donation.
Saginaw Arbor (MI) Benevolent Fund Outreach Activity #8, Learning as an Arbor #14, Invite an Elected Public Official #19 — The arbor hosted a benefit concert at the Temple Theatre in Saginaw. Proceeds went to the Power of Dad, a mentoring program for fatherless boys, and HIS Restoration Ministries, a mentoring and housing program for homeless girls and moms. The arbor combined resources with the Building Mid-Michigan Families organization along with donations from local businesses to bring Dove Awardwinning recording artist Newsong to the theater for the event on Oct. 18. The arbor had a booth and passed out materials on Gleaner Life. The event raised $17,120 split between Power of Dad and HIS Restoration. Bring-a-Guest Event #1, Patriotic Activity #3, Elderly Support Activity #21 — The arbor planned and hosted an all-inclusive dinner for Veterans Day at Trillium Banquet Center. The evening included dinner and dessert with music provided by Tom Krause and Company. Many of the guests were also clients of the 1% Veterans Food Pantry, which the arbor donated to in 2014. The founder/organizer presented the arbor with a framed appreciation certificate thanking them for their support.
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Arbor President Sue Hammersmith [left] and Linda Bollinger [right] from South Fairfield Arbor (MI/ OH) presents $1,000 to Jill Stechschulte of the Fulton County Fair Foundation, the recipient of the 4-H Helping Hands donation.
Elected Public Official #19, Special Holiday Project #23 — The arbor hosted a Christmas party with local Boy Scouts who presented the flag and led the Pledge of Allegiance. The arbor had flour and salt ornaments for children to decorate. The evening included a carry-in dinner and caroling. Children visited with Santa and Mrs. Claus and received presents. The arbor also gave CSR Awards to Nathan Biegel (youth), Karen Angelevki (adult) and Ronald Schafer (senior). The arbor gave Cub Scout Pack 810 a $200 donation. Two food baskets were filled for families in South County by all who attended. The arbor donated remaining gifts to a family in Hudson Lake.
South Fairfield Arbor (MI/OH) Community Project #10 — The arbor participated in Gleaner Day by collecting food and items that cannot be purchased with food stamps for the CAST Food Pantry. The arbor put collection boxes in the bank, library and fire department. They collected 270 pounds of hygiene supplies. They also delivered 387 pounds of food to the pantry. Wild Card #24 — The arbor assisted Evergreen Elementary with purchasing coats and boots for 20 children in need. Special Holiday Project #23 — The arbor hosted a Halloween party where they served snacks and provided a photo backdrop area for families to take pictures. Animal Support #11, Historical Site #13 — Arbor members welcomed guest Lowell Yoder, who shared historical artifacts. Patriotic Activity #3, Get Your Arbor Recognized #9 — Arbor members
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partnered with the local elementary school to host a Veterans Day celebration. Over 100 veterans and other guests joined arbor members, elementary students and teachers. The program included a color guard from Lyons VFW, the Pledge of Allegiance, ”The Star-Spangled Banner,” songs by the children and letters to servicemen and women read by children. Each guest was given an American flag compliments of the arbor. CSR Award & Membership Pin #2, Community Project #10, Invite an Elected Public Official #19 — Members gathered for an annual holiday potluck. CSR Awards were presented to Jennifer Smith (adult) and Chelsea Kilgus (youth), both of whom are actively involved with their partner 4-H Club. The senior CSR Award was presented to Doris Crowell. Arbor members also brought in hats and mittens to donate to local schoolchildren.
Sulphur Springs Arbor (IL) Wild Card #24 —The arbor hosted a booth at the Coal City Junior Women’s Octoberfest. Ten members attended, and 386 people visited the booth and signed up for a chance to win one of four $25 gas gift cards and several Gleaner promotional items. Gleaner brochures were also handed out. Healthy Lifestyle and Safety Activity #20 — The arbor hosted a water and granola bar table at the Ta Ta Trot at Carbon Hill Park. More than 200 participants visited the table. Community Project #10 — Members participated in the Gleaner Day Food Drive. They collected nonperishable food items and donated g lea ner life.o rg
Tecumseh Arbor (MI) presents a $1,000 check to the Tecumseh Service Club to assist with purchasing food, clothing and toys for those in need during the holidays. Pictured in the front are arbor President Linda Hewlett and Colleen Sunderland of the Tecumseh Service Club. In back are arbor Secretary Joann Luckhardt and members Willard Cleland and Frances Cleland, and Mike Sunderland of the Tecumseh Service Club.
them to the Coal City Food Pantry. A total of 378 pounds of food were collected, and once the arbor added leftover water from the Ta Ta Trot, the final total was 425 pounds.
Tecumseh Arbor (MI) Patriotic Activity #3, Environmental Activity #4, Get Your Arbor Recognized #9 — The arbor packed snack bags for the VA Hospital in Ann Arbor. The 63 bags contained socks, snacks, mints, applesauce, tuna, cutlery and a note thanking the veterans for their service and letting them know the bags were from the arbor. Arbor members also packed boxes for the hospital’s Comfort Closet. Those boxes contained socks, undergarments, puzzle books, pens, and hygiene items. Historical Site #13, Learning as an Arbor #14, Special Holiday Project #23 — Members visited Rentschler Farms Museum farmhouse, which was furnished and decorated for the Christmas holidays circa 1930. Tour guides explained the function of each room, including the wood shed, a summer kitchen used for laundry and canning, plus the kitchen, dining room, parlor and five bedrooms. The arbor presented a $200 donation to the Saline Historical Society. Arbor members then shopped for the two adopted families and purchased clothes and toys.
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Arbor President Sherri Thorp from USA Arbor (MI) presents a CSR Award to Sheila Fuerst. A youth award was also presented to Parker Ritchey.
USA Arbor (MI) Educating Youth #12 — The arbor sponsored an assembly by Stand Strength Team. The students were treated to shows of strength, such as tearing up phone books and bending steel rods. Stand Strength Team talked about bullying, being kind to others, listening to teachers and parents, saying no to drugs and alcohol, etc. Students also learned about making good decisions each day. Wild Card #24 — Members planned and sponsored a soup benefit for 14-monthold Gemma Gauger, who has had three open-heart surgeries and experienced loss of sight and motor skills as a result. She has not left the hospital since April and has been on a heart transplant list since September. On the day of the benefit, 240 people were served. The arbor provided all the supplies so that every penny collected went directly to the family. The arbor raised $2,622 for Gemma’s family. CSR Award & Membership Pin #2, Patriotic Activity #3 — The arbor honored Dawn VanHoost for her involvement in planning and support of the arbor. The arbor also assembled bags filled with flag stocking caps, a postcard thanking veterans for their service, a double flag pin and some candy. The 78 bags were donated to the Veterans Home in Akron and the VA Clinic in Bad Axe.
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Travis Mills with the banner that was presented at his book signing sponsored by Vulcaneer Arbor (MI).
Vulcaneer Arbor (MI) Patriotic Activity #3, Elderly Support Activity #21, Special Holiday Project #23 — Veterans were honored by arbor members and Central Elementary School students for Veterans Day. Seventy veterans and their loved ones attended the event, which featured the Vassar High School band along with an activity supplied by each grade that included a song, thank-you letters and recitations. Community Project #10, Learning as an Arbor #14, Youth Organization #22 — The arbor hosted trivia night at the local high school. In addition to setting up the friendly competition, the arbor provided food for concession sales. Thirteen teams participated, and a total of $1,768 was raised, all of which went to purchase software upgrades and classroom J a n u a r y/Fe br u a r y 2 016
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Arbors reported the following donations: Caring Hands Donation #17: Adrian Arbor (MI), Crystal Lake Arbor (MI), Homer Township Oak Arbor (IL), Lakeshore Arbor (MI), Lenawee Community Arbor (MI), Maple City Arbor (MI), Marion Arbor (MI), Portage Center Arbor (OH), Rolling Prairie Arbor (IN).
White Pine Arbor (MI) presents a $150 check to the Ogemaw District Library.
equipment. Bring-a-Guest Event #1, Get Your Arbor Recognized #9 — Members attended and helped set up and serve refreshments for the local school musical, “Shrek.” Wild Card #24 — The arbor helped coordinate a book-signing event for Travis Mills, a local hero who lost his limbs in 2012, leaving him a quadruple amputee after an IED explosion during his third tour in Afghanistan. In the book, he wrote about his experience and his fears. The money that was collected from selling 130 books was donated to the Travis Mills Foundation, which purchased the Elizabeth Arden estate to house wounded veterans. The check was presented to Travis’ mom. An additional $2,000 was donated through a coin collection by Caro and Vassar schools.
West Lockport Arbor (IL) Special Holiday Project #23 — The arbor organized a food and clothing drive for Morning Star Mission.
White Pine Arbor (MI) Animal Support #11 — The arbor met at the Ogemaw County Animal Shelter in West Branch to learn about its services. The arbor donated $100 to the shelter.
4-H Helping Hands Donation #16: Bavarian Arbor (MI), Findlay Flag City Arbor (OH), Gulf Coast Arbor (FL), Heritage Arbor (MI), Portage Center Arbor (OH), South Fairfield Arbor (MI/OH). Animal Support #11: Florida Arbor (OH), Floyd Arbor (MI), Grand Blanc Arbor (MI), Greater Flint Area Arbor (MI), Gulf Coast Arbor (FL), Heart of Florida Arbor (FL), Lenawee Community Arbor (MI), Marion Arbor (MI), Ober Arbor (IN), Plank Road Arbor (MI).
Historical Site #13: Florida Arbor (OH), Grand Blanc Arbor (MI), Heritage Arbor (MI), Holland Arbor (OH), Lakeshore Arbor (MI), Madison Arbor (MI).
Community Project #10: Grand Blanc Arbor (MI), Heritage Arbor (MI), Holland Arbor (OH), Plank Road Arbor (MI).
In the spirit of holiday giving the following arbors donated to local food pantries and sponsored holiday food gift baskets for those in need: Bavarian Arbor (MI), Capital Arbor (MI), Grand Blanc Arbor (MI), Hawthorne Arbor (IN), Heritage Arbor (MI), Holland Arbor (OH), Law Arbor (MI), Portage Center Arbor (OH), Rolling Prairie Arbor (IN), Sulphur Springs Arbor (IL).
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Bavarian Arbor (MI) — Special Holiday Project #23, $200 to Bethesda Home.
Ober Arbor (IN) — Animal Support #11, $123.00 to Starke County Humane Society.
Birch Run Arbor (MI) — $50 to the Birch Run VFW food drive.
Orchard Arbor (MI) — Animal Support #11, $250 to SNAP Animal Rescue; $250 to Girl Scout Troop #70835; $125 to Leukemia Lymphoma Charity; Patriotic Activity #3, $100; Historical Site #13, $250 to Almont Historical Society.
Black Swamp Arbor (OH) — Historical Site Activity #13, $100 to the Paulding County Historical Society truck show. Chester Arbor (OH) — $350 toward shelves for a local church’s food pantry; $350 to an anonymous recipient for medical needs; $350 to Marion Women’s Shelter; $600 to the American Red Cross for smoke alarms; $99.98 to Morrow County Transportation’s Tomorrow Center; $300 to support holiday meals for veterans; $200 to Mariann Bush for a church mission trip; $70 in cash prizes for the Mt. Gilead Food Drive; $250 toward a meal for the Creating Lasting Family Connections program; $1,000 to 4-H agent Becky Barker and 4-H board member Martha Osborne.
Plank Road Arbor (MI) — $200 to Laurenz Farm Day busing; Historical Site #13, $100 to Breckenridge-Wheeler Area Historical Society; $900 to Breckenridge Community Schools German Exchange Program; Patriotic Activity #3, $70.
Entrican Arbor (MI) — Community Project #10, $200 to Child Safety of America Inc.; $100 to Entrican Bible Church in memory of Mabel Crooks.
Rolling Prairie Arbor (IN) — Special Holiday Project #23, $500 each to Wounded Warrior, GHKW Community Food Pantry and New Day Foundation; $500 for sponsoring softball; $300 to New Carlisle Wesleyan Church’s school backpack program.
Florida Arbor (OH) — Community Project #10, $500 to the Henry County Christmas Cheer project; $300 gift card to Napoleon Elementary School. Glen Arbor (MI) — $350 to Girls State.
Portage Center Arbor (OH) — Youth Organization Activity #22, $111.57 for the fall festival; $500 to Hancock-Wood Electric Co-op; Special Holiday Project #23, $200 to Elmwood FFA for food baskets; $25 each to Ronald McDonald House and Wood County Special Olympics.
Tri County Arbor (MI) — Patriotic Activity #3, $201.72 for 57th Biennial Convention charity tote; $1,500 for Kenya Project.
Hawthorne Arbor (IN) — $100 to Wings of Hope; $103.07 to Toys for Tots; $150 in donated clothes. Heart of Florida Arbor (FL) — $300 to Wilson House. Heritage Arbor (MI) — $323.17 to the Davison Senior Center’s veteran/senior dinner. Huron Shores Arbor (MI) — $100 to CrosLex High School girls track team. Mill Creek Arbor (IN) — Patriotic Activity #3, $300 Girl Scout cookies for military personnel. North Central Michigan Arbor (MI) — Educating Youth #12, $200 to Beaverton Elementary School Truancy Program. gl eane rlife.org
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5200 West U.S. Highway 223, P.O. Box 1894 Adrian, Michigan 49221-7894
Nonprofit Organization U.S. POSTAGE PAID ADRIAN, MI 49221 PERMIT NO. 1894
Have you moved recently? Help us keep our records straight. If you have moved recently or have any changes to your name or mailing address, please email us at fraternal@gleanerlife.org so we can update our records.
Join in the fun as Gleaner’s 2016 Getaway Tour heads to
T E N N E S S E E Gleaner’s 2016 Getaway Tour travels to Pigeon Forge and the Smoky Mountains for a show trip April 25-29, 2016. The five-day, four-night getaway to one of America’s greatest attractions is available to Gleaner members for $435 per person based on a double-occupancy room rate (single- and triple-occupancy are also available). Participants will depart from Gleaner’s Home Office in Adrian, Michigan, at 8 a.m. on April 25, traveling in a spacious restroom- and video-equipped motor coach. The package includes accommodations as well as four breakfasts and four dinners. The trip features a tour of Titanic: The World’s Largest Museum Attraction, a guided tour of the Smoky Mountains and dinner shows featuring Soul of Motown, the Smoky Mountain Opera Show and the Smith Family. We have officially filled our first bus. Currently, we are adding interested travelers to a waiting list for a second bus, which is also on its way to being full! So, register and send full payment by Feb. 19 to secure your spot on the second bus! For a complete list of details and rates and to make reservations, visit gleanerlife.org or, to make reservations, email fraternal@gleanerlife.org.