Gleaner Life Insurance Society members gathered in Florida to cheer on the Detroit Tigers at the Spring Training Event. Members also beat their winter blues by enjoying the 27th annual Snowbird Picnic!
In this issue: Florida Snowbird Recap Gleaner Getaway Trip to New England & Cape Cod Kalahari Registration Opens May 1
Take 45 seconds to help protect the tax-exempt status of Gleaner and all fraternal benefit societies
The Arbor Newsletter is published bi-monthly by
Visit www.Raceto100.org
Kevin A. Marti President and CEO
Washington in 2017, new leadership could change the face of the tax debate. We have to remind our lawmakers that fraternals have an important impact on the wellbeing of our nation.
Fraternal Department Sherry L. Nino Vice President, Fraternal Operations
Michelle Horn
How you can help:
Fraternal Manager
Jaime Linden
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Fraternal Engagement Coordinator
2.
Jessica Vasher
One hundred years ago, Congress bestowed a special tax status on fraternal benefit societies. The action exempted us from federal taxes for a reason: In exchange for the exemption, we are required to take earnings generated from our financial services operations and use them to enrich members’ lives, and also improve the lives of those in the communities where our members live and work. We’ve done a terrific job of living up to our promises of helping others. But along with our special status comes the responsibility to occasionally remind Congress why it gave us our tax-exempt status in the first place.
Sr. Fraternal Specialist
Kirsten Stiver Fraternal Specialist
Fraternal Committee Sherry L. Nino 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)
In February, the American Fraternal Alliance (AFA) launched an advocacy campaign to secure 100 co-sponsors for House Congressional Resolution 19 (H.Con. Res.19), the Fraternal Resolution, which gives U.S. representatives the chance to publicly acknowledge the important contributions that fraternal benefit societies make to the nation’s financial and social well-being. Currently, we have approximately 75 members of Congress who support the fraternal model. We hope to increase that number with the AFA’s Race to 100.
Leo Knox Bowling Green Arbor (OH)
Dan Sutton 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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Visit the AFA’s Race to 100 campaign site at www.RaceTo100.org. Complete the form to the left of the screen: • Please note that you may need to include your complete ninedigit ZIP code. • Under “My Society,” select “Gleaner Life Insurance Society.” • Under “I am…,” select “a Member” (agents should select “an Agent” and arbor officers should select “a Chapter Leader”). • When complete, click “Register.” Review your letter, which will be automatically populated with your name and the name of your representative. Click “Send Letter.” The letter will be automatically emailed to your representative. Have all of your Gleaner family members register, too. Tell a friend. Once you’ve submitted your letter, you have the opportunity to send a prewritten email to four people, asking them to help support the Fraternal Resolution.
Be assured your personal information will remain private and will not be shared in any way with third parties. Thank you for taking the time to support your fraternal benefit society!
The AFA’s Race to 100 is a grassroots campaign to help us recruit 100 co-sponsors from the U.S. House of Representatives for the Fraternal Resolution. With a new administration in
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Join us! Visit New England and Cape Cod with Gleaner! Sept. 19-26, 2016 If you missed the bus on the Smoky Mountain trip, join us Sept. 19-26, 2016, for a very different tour of New England and Cape Cod. Features include:
This trip features new stops for Gleaner members. If you joined us in 2010, it’s worth taking a closer look!
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The Berkshires
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The Vanderbilt family’s summer home (“The Breakers”)
Rate per person
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The Big E Fair
Double-occupancy per person
$1,349
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Quadrangle world-class museums
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Cranberry farm bog tour
Triple-occupancy per person
$1,235
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Brick Market Place
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Shaker Village
Quadruple-occupancy per person
$1,154
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Historic Salem Cross Inn
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Whale- and seal-watching cruises
Single-occupancy
$1,759
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… and much more!
The eight-day, seven-night getaway to one of America’s most historic regions is available to Gleaner members and friends for $1,349 per person based on a double-occupancy room rate (single-, triple- and quadruple-occupancy rates are also available). You’ll depart from Gleaner Life Insurance Society (Adrian, Michigan) on Sept. 19 traveling in a deluxe European motor coach. The package includes accommodations, local step-on guides, admission to the sites, seven breakfasts, one lunch and five dinners. Trip insurance is also available. For tour details and to register, visit www.gleanerlife.org or contact the Fraternal Department at fraternal@gleanerlife.org!
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Arbor Activities
In January, Adrian Arbor (MI) attended an Adrian College hockey game, where arbor guests Mason Mueller and Nico Johnson shot pucks at intermission.
Santa visited Bay Area Arbor’s (FL) Christmas event to distribute gifts.
Adrian Arbor (MI)
Bay Area Arbor (FL)
Birch Run Arbor (MI)
Youth Organization Activity #22, Special Holiday Project #23 — With the help of 13 four-year-old children, members decorated Christmas cookies at the Adrian Community Nursery.
Get Your Arbor Recognized #9 — Arbor members sponsored a Christmas event at Apollo Beach Recreation Center and Skate Park. This annual event grows every year and brought 1,200 visitors in 2015! The event featured a visit from Santa, Mrs. Claus and Santa’s helpers as well as performances by local choirs and a cappella groups, a bounce house, playground games and an inflatable slide. Benevolent Fund Outreach Activity #8 — Members held an angel tree program and purchased Christmas gifts for 60 underprivileged children in their area. The arbor set a budget of $75 per child. Once presents were purchased and wrapped, the arbor held an event at the local community center to give the gifts to the children while supplying treats. Santa also made an appearance, choosing just the right gift out of his bag for each child. Special Holiday Project #23 — The arbor donated 200 purses filled with personal care items to children at the Mary & Martha House shelter so they could give the purses to their mothers for Christmas.
Special Holiday Project #23 — The arbor adopted eight families and supplied them with food baskets for Christmas. Families with children also received boots, clothes and toys. Educating Youth #12 — Members met with Birch Run High School’s student council members to shop for a local food pantry. The arbor hopes students will continue to help give to the less fortunate in the community. Benevolent Fund Outreach Activity #8 — The arbor sponsored an educational night with students, parents and staff of Marshall Green Middle School. These events cultivate parental involvement in a fun, engaging manner. Animal Support #11 — Members donated cat food, treats and litter in bulk to the Genesee County Humane Society. Get Your Arbor Recognized #9 — The arbor co-sponsored a pancake breakfast with the Taymouth Township Fire Department. The department was given an all-terrain vehicle by the military and is raising money to equip it.
Alma Arbor (MI) Learning As An Arbor #14 — Members visited the Alma High School robotics lab, where they witnessed a demonstration, learned about the robotics program and donated $100 to the robotics team. Special Holiday Project #23 — Members treated residents of Immanuel Village to a Valentine’s Day party with soup, candies, cupcakes, cookies and a game of bingo. The arbor also donated a wooden cross to the residents.
Bavarian Arbor (MI) Elderly Support Activity #21 — Members held a bingo party at Independence Village retirement home. Bingo winners received a $1 bill. The arbor gave an especially warm welcome to two residents who were discovered to be Gleaner members. 3
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Environmental Activity #4 — Birch Run Arbor (MI) members partnered with the Birch Run High School horticulture class, parents and local volunteers to make wreaths, grave blankets and centerpieces.
Black Swamp Arbor (OH) Animal Support #11 — Paulding County Sheriff's Deputy Caleb Miller visited the arbor with his dog Cooper. Miller shared information about Cooper, who was raised in Germany to track narcotics, people and lost items. The arbor donated $200 to help cover Cooper’s veterinarian bills and other costs.
Bowling Green Arbor (OH) Community Project #10 — Members worked with St. Mark’s Lutheran Church to host Wednesday Night Live, a dinner for in-need area residents.
Caro Arbor (MI) Elderly Support Activity #21, Special Holiday Project #23 — Members wrapped and distributed to senior citizens over 250 gifts at the Knights of Columbus hall on Christmas Day. The arbor also contributed $300 to the Christmas meal at the hall. Get Your Arbor Recognized #9, Community gl eane rlife.org
Linda Ruehrmund of Chester Arbor (OH) presents a CSR Award to Aaron Evans.
Project #10 — Members ran a silent auction and sponsored Winterfest, which is a snowmobile race and festival. The arbor contributed a total of $1,900 toward food, entertainment and silent auction items for the event.
Center Township Arbor (IN) Animal Support #11 — Nancy Whiteman of Pet Refuge visited the arbor with Candy, a 6-week-old pit bull mix who is up for adoption. Whiteman shared information about the shelter’s services and fundraising events. The arbor presented Whiteman with several donated items for the shelter.
Chester Arbor (OH) Bring-A-Guest Event #1, Mission for LIFE® #5 — Gleaner agent John King presented the Mission for LIFE® (MFL) program to arbor members and guests. At the same event, the arbor recognized its Community Service Recognition (CSR) Award recipients, Aaron Evans, Dixie Shinaberry and Janet Bedwell. In January, T h e A r b o r Ne w s le t te r
members served a light meal at a program for parents, students and caregivers at Cardington Lincoln Schools. Healthy Lifestyle and Safety Activity #20 — Jodi Demo-Hodgins of the Crawford-Marion Board of Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services visited the arbor for an informative presentation on her organization’s services. The arbor donated $200 to treatment centers in Morrow and Marion. Youth Organization Activity #22 — Members assisted with an event for the Pleasant Elementary School jump rope program, Jump Rope for Your Heart. The students raised money for the American Heart Association through pledges. In addition to helping with the event, the arbor donated new jump ropes to the school’s jump rope team.
Community Arbor (IN) Bring-A-Guest Event #1, Educating Youth #12, Learning As An Arbor #14 — Members and visitors toured the Jean Cole Museum in Logansport, Indiana, and donated plates, cups and napkins for the M a rc h /Apr i l 2 0 16
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Members of Emerald Echo Arbor (OH) gather to distribute clothes and food to the needy at North Canton Church of Christ. Pictured, left to right, are: Kurt Burner, Ron Mollohan, Karen Conrady, Rod Stockdale, Joe Gadow, Wanda Nelson and Tom Nelson.
museum to use when serving refreshments. Special Holiday Project #23 — Members held a Valentine’s Day bingo at the Open Arms shelter in Kokomo. The arbor served pizza and snacks, and donated food, diapers, wipes and personal hygiene products to the shelter.
Crystal Lake Arbor (MI)
Fallen Timbers Arbor (OH) Benevolent Fund Outreach Activity #8, Community Project #10 — The arbor hosted a viewing of Star Wars: The Force Awakens at the Maumee Indoor Movie Theater, collecting food donations for the Food for Thought Food Pantry. The arbor raised $789.50 in cash donations and over $300 in food donations.
Several members toured the Henry County Historical Society’s Bloomfield House. The arbor donated two boxes of cookies to the society’s holiday open house and made a $150 donation directly to the society.
Floyd Arbor (MI) Special Holiday Project #23 — The arbor held a Christmas party at the Aleda Lutz Veterans Medical Center with the Good Tidings Caroling Company. The arbor contributed and helped deliver 65 gift bags to residents. The bags included a watch, a music CD and a card.
Gleoma Arbor (NE) Historical Site #13, Learning As An Arbor #14 — The arbor visited the Go West traveling exhibit at the Joslyn Museum. The exhibit focuses on the settling of the U.S. West and its impact on Native Americans.
Caring Hands Donation #17 — In January, the arbor helped serve a benefit dinner for the family of Douglas McPherson Sr., who was the arbor’s former vice president. The arbor also made a $300 Caring Hands donation to the family. Elderly Support Activity #21 — Members visited Joy Givers Senior Home to play bingo, inflate balloons and serve dinner to the residents. Members of Gleoma Arbor (NE) visit the Go West traveling exhibit at the Joslyn Museum.
Emerald Echo Arbor (OH) Community Project #10 — The arbor worked with North Canton Church of Christ to distribute clothes and food to the needy. The church serves an average of 580 families per month, distributing 70,000 pounds of food.
Educating Youth #12, Learning As An Arbor #14 — Mindy Train of the Montcalm County Great Start Collaborative visited the arbor to discuss the Dolly Parton Imagination Library. The arbor donated $100 to the program. Elderly Support Activity #21, Special Holiday Project #23 — Members visited the Greenville Senior Center to play card bingo (in lieu of traditional bingo) with residents. The A rb o r Ne w s l e t te r
Findlay Flag City Arbor (OH) Mission for LIFE® #5 — John King presented the MFL program to arbor members.
Entrican Arbor (MI)
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Fallen Timbers Arbor (OH) President Jerel Fish collects nonperishables for the Food for Thought Food Pantry.
Florida Arbor (OH) Bring-A-Guest Event #1, Patriotic Activity #3 — Dawn Heisler of Heroes in Action visited a joint meeting of the Florida and Harrison arbors. The organization supports veterans and their families with aid. The arbor donated $100 to the organization. Historical Site #13 —
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Grand Arbor (MI) Educating Youth #12 — The arbor served a breakfast at Second Chance, a school where troubled teens participate in equine therapy. The arbor donated $750 to the school and an additional $100 in educational items.
Greater Flint Area Arbor (MI) Bring-A-Guest Event #1, CSR Award & Membership Pin #2, Invite An Elected Public Official #19 — The arbor held a dinner to honor its CSR Award recipients, Judy Dawson (senior), Jeff Spinney (adult) and Shane Stevens (youth). State Rep. Pam Faris attended the event as well as Jacob Hilliker, legislative assistant to U.S. Rep. g lea ner life.o rg
Hawthorne Arbor (IN)
Grand Arbor (MI) members Sarah Schoen, Don Silverman, Nate Schoen, Pattie Silverman, Gary Mills, Wanda Beauchamp and Maryann Inman visit the Second Chance School for troubled teens.
Dan Kildee. Faris presented a framed certificate of recognition to each award recipient.
Gulf Coast Arbor (FL) Special Holiday Project #23, Wild Card #24 — The arbor held an event at which members (and Santa) provided Christmas gifts to local underprivileged children.
Special Holiday Project #23 — Members held a Christmas party for clients of Arc. They served homemade cookies and punch. Members distributed 76 bags of candy they filled for the clients. Elderly Support Activity #21, Youth Organization Activity #22 — The arbor partnered with the Riley 4-H Club to host a Valentine-themed bingo party at Lowell Healthcare Center nursing home. The 90 residents each received a valentine, and bingo players were allowed to select a gift from the arbor’s gift cart.
Holland Arbor (OH) Get Your Arbor Recognized #9, Animal Support #11 — Members had a great time helping with the Maumee Valley Save-APet’s dinner and fundraiser, Amazin Grazin. Members helped run the silent auction, and the arbor purchased a pedometer wristwatch for the auction. Historical Site #13 — Nestled among 750 acres of forests, orchards and farmland, The Manor House at the Wildwood Preserve Metropark is a stunning look into days gone by. Members enjoyed touring this magnificent house, built in 1938. The arbor donated toward the restoration of the home’s impressive 16
bedrooms and 17 bathrooms. Special Holiday Project #23 — Members visited Mom’s House, a halfway home that supports teen mothers who are working toward completing their education. The arbor purchased clothing and other items for one of the mothers and her children. Much to the delight of all of the children at the home, Secretary Jim Gilsdorf read books donated by the arbor. Community Project #10 — Members attended Project Unified’s basketball game and cheered on the participants, who have various disabilities. The arbor donated funds to purchase game shirts for the team. Mission for LIFE® #5 — Gleaner agent Jerel Fish shared Gleaner’s MFL presentation and led the group in life insurance bingo.
omer Township Oak H Arbor (IL) Get Your Arbor Recognized #9, Youth Organization Activity #22, Special Holiday Project #23 — Members united with a local teen club to prepare Christmas gift bags for recipients of Meals on Wheels. The bags included hand warmers, eyeglass cleaners, cough drops, magazines, calendars, fruit and more. Some of the bags also included stationery and stamps
For Elderly Support Activity #21, Gulf Coast Arbor (FL) members visited an assisted living facility, where they sang Christmas carols in both Spanish and English.
Harmony Arbor (MI) Special Holiday Project #23 — The arbor adopted a family for the Christmas season, providing gifts for the family’s children. Animal Support #11 — Veterinarian Dr. Tom Armstrong visited the arbor and gave a humorous presentation titled “What Vet School Didn’t Teach Me.” Armstrong stressed the importance of communication between pet owners and their veterinarian.
Community Project #10, Educating Youth #12 — Students from Marion Elementary School’s Head Start program are excited about the learning toys purchased by Marion Arbor (MI).]
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assembled by the teens. The arbor provided sandwiches and snacks for all who volunteered.
Lakeshore Arbor (MI) Patriotic Activity #3, Elderly Support Activity #21, Special Holiday Project #23 — Members assembled gift bags for 20 veterans at Appledorn Care Facility. To show their appreciation, they also created homemade cards for each resident.
Law Arbor (MI) Elderly Support Activity #21 — The arbor sponsored a performance by the Sunshine String Band at Barton Woods Assisted Living Center. Members and 21 residents tapped their toes and clapped along with the lively music. Patriotic Activity #3, Youth Organization Activity #22 — Students from Freeland Elementary School created handmade Valentine's Day cards for patients at the Veterans Hospital in Saginaw. The arbor purchased stickers and blank cards for this event, and 145 valentines were delivered to the hospital.
Animal Support #11 — Jenny Barlos receives a $200 donation from Oakwood Arbor (OH) Secretary/Treasurer Bonnie Pier to help with the costs of raising a service dog.
Maple City Arbor (MI) Healthy Lifestyle and Safety Activity #20 — Members lent a helping hand as guides for visitors to the Housing Help of Lenawee’s Project Connect. This event brings together more than 50 local agencies to provide wraparound care for families and individuals who are homeless or on the verge of being so. The arbor donated $300 to support the event, which featured free transportation and a hot meal for participants. Elderly Support Activity #21 — Residents at several local nursing homes were treated to a Valentine’s Day surprise by the arbor. Members worked together to handcraft 600 valentine cards, which they delivered along with candy to residents.
Mid-Michigan Arbor (MI) Animal Support #11, Learning As An Arbor #14 — Frank and Ann Davis
joined the arbor for a luncheon meeting and presentation on Leader Dogs for the Blind. They also brought
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Elderly Support Activity #21, Special Holiday Project #23 — Members of Orchard Arbor (MI) distributed handmade blankets and scarves to the elderly in attendance at the Almont Christmas Holly Day Light Parade.
along Nutmeg, a dog they are training to be a service animal for the blind. The arbor donated $200 to help with the costs of raising Nutmeg, which averages $1,500 annually.
Mt. Pleasant Arbor (MI) Animal Support #11 — The arbor filled and decorated a tote and collected boxes of other donations for the Buddy Foundation at the 57th Biennial Convention. Healthy Lifestyle and Safety Activity #20 — Members filled backpacks with healthy food for students at Kinney School to take home on weekends.
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Benevolent Fund Outreach Activity #8, Get Your Arbor Recognized #9, Special Holiday Project #23 — The arbor sponsored an ice skating party for the community at the Mt. Pleasant Community Center. Guests enjoyed free admission, skate rental and pop and chips provided by the arbor. Those who brought donations for the local food pantry were entered in a drawing for gift cards to McDonald's and the movie theater. Wild Card #24 — Members visited various schools to distribute books purchased by the arbor for the students.
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Elderly Support Activity #21, Special Holiday Project #23 — Members of Plank Road Arbor (MI) prepare and serve a delicious holiday dinner for residents of Heart’s Content Adult Foster Care Home. The arbor also donated $100 to the home.
Portage Center Arbor (OH) members gather for their January meeting.
North Baltimore Arbor (OH)
Oakwood Arbor (OH)
Rivertown Arbor (MI)
Bring-A-Guest Event #1, CSR Award & Membership Pin #2, Animal Support #11, Educating Youth #12 — The arbor hosted an event for members and guests at Riverbend Recreation Area. After a hayride tour of the fall colors, everyone gathered for hot dogs roasted over a fire. During the event, Courtney Van Horn was presented with the CSR Award. The arbor also donated $200 to Project H.O.P.E. Historical Site #13, 4-H Helping Hands Donation #16, Elderly Support Activity #21 — The arbor hosted bingo at the Briar Hill Nursing Home and provided prizes and treats.
Bring-A-Guest Event #1, Learning As An Arbor #14 — Members and guests were treated to a fascinating presentation by Randy Buchman on the history of Native American tribes from Ohio. The Ottawa tribe was located in the arbor’s local area and was relocated primarily to Oklahoma. The arbor donated $50 to Buchman in honor of his presentation. Animal Support #11 — Jenny Barlos shared with members about her work with Assistance Dogs for Achieving Independence. The dogs she trains help with everything from mobility and retrieving items to getting clothes out of the dryer.
Get Your Arbor Recognized #9, Community Project #10 — The arbor purchased and members collected travelsized shampoo, toothpaste and other personal hygiene items for people served by the Heartside Ministry in Grand Rapids. This unique ministry serves those in need by providing shelter, educational opportunities, art therapy, substance abuse recovery programs and a host of other programs.
North Central Michigan Arbor (MI)
Ober Arbor (IN)
Bring-A-Guest Event #1, CSR Award & Membership Pin #2, Animal Support #11, Educating Youth #12 — The arbor donated a tote for the teen center in Schaumburg, Illinois, as part of the 57th Biennial Convention. Get Your Arbor Recognized #9, Elderly Support Activity #21 — The arbor decorated 33 dozen Christmas cookies with seniors at the Brookside Senior Center in Farwell, Michigan. Special Holiday Project #23 — To raise funds for Big Brothers Big Sisters, members set up a booth at Glen's Supermarket and sold cookies. Wild Card #24 — Members filled gift bags with toiletries, hats, gloves, blankets and other special items for teens living at the Eagle Village residential facility. The arbor donated $600 to support this project.
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Elderly Support Activity #21, Special Holiday Project #23 — Members visited and played bingo with residents at Golden Living Nursing Home. The arbor provided cookies, punch and prizes for the event. As a special treat, members also presented residents with handmade valentines featuring riddles and jokes.
Portage Center Arbor (OH) Animal Support #11 — During a pizza luncheon, members listened to a program by Andy Snyder on the Wood County Animal Shelter. The arbor donated $100 to the shelter to support the cost of veterinary bills.
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Rolling Prairie Arbor (IN) Bring-A-Guest Event #1, 4-H Helping Hands Donation #16 — The arbor hosted a family game night and Valentine’s Day celebration. During the event, a donation of $1,000 was presented to Mary Foell, youth educator with the local 4-H program. The funds will be used for camp scholarships. Benevolent Fund Outreach Activity #8 — The arbor hosted an afternoon of games and fun for special education students at Boston Middle School. Members set up and worked game stations from ring toss to bowling, with prizes for the students to pick after completing each station. The students loved the event and were very appreciative. To support the special education program, the arbor donated $750.
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Animal Support #11 — Rolling Prairie Arbor (IN) members Eric Hayes and Chris Kottka present donations from the arbor to Jane Bernard, center, director of the LaPorte County Animal Shelter.
Youth from Super Heroes in Training 4-H Club decorate duffel bags for foster children during an event sponsored by USA Arbor (MI).
Youth from a local Boy Scout troop lend a helping hand during a Super Bowl chicken dinner fundraiser for their troop sponsored by Vulcaneer Arbor (MI).
South Fairfield Arbor (MI/OH)
stations, including relay races and an obstacle course. The arbor provided jump ropes as prizes for participants. Elderly Support Activity #21 — The arbor sponsored a Valentine’s dance at West Park Place in Toledo.
project. Together, they decorated duffel bags, donated by the arbor, for children in the foster care system. These bags, packed with blankets, coloring books, crayons and personal hygiene items, will be used by the children when they move between homes. Many of the youth really delved into decorating by creating hand-drawn designs with encouraging messages. The arbor also provided snacks for all participants.
More than 400 people attended a pancake breakfast hosted by the local Boy Scout troop with the help of arbor members who set up, cooked and helped clean up after the event. In February, members delivered food to and stocked shelves at the CAST Food Pantry. The arbor purchased 505 pounds of food for the pantry and items that people in need cannot use food stamps for, including shampoo and laundry detergent. In February, members came together to plan for and provide a funeral dinner in honor of beloved arbor member Marjorie Flack, who was an integral part of the arbor for many years.
Stateline Arbor (MI) Community Project #10 — The arbor partnered with AFL/CIO of Monroe County for their mobile food pantry. Members helped build food packets for distribution throughout the community and provided refreshments for all of the volunteers. Wild Card #24 — Splitting into five teams, members participated in a Rake-N-Run event to help clean up the yards of eight homes. Following the event, the Mohrs hosted a dinner for the volunteers. Animal Support #11 — Working with the Lucas County Humane Society, the arbor hosted an animal food drive. In addition to food donations, members also collected leashes and other pet supplies. The arbor also donated three pet carriers and pet food. Healthy Lifestyle and Safety Activity #20 — The arbor participated in the YMCA’s Healthy Choices, Healthy Lifestyle event. Members helped out at various 9
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Tecumseh Arbor (MI) CSR & Membership Pin #2, Get Your Arbor Recognized #9 — In February, the arbor presented a 75-year membership pin to Harold Campbell and also sponsored a miniature golf ice sculpture at the Tecumseh Ice Sculpture Festival.
Tri County Arbor (MI) Get Your Arbor Recognized #9 — The arbor presented a $25 donation and a $10 McDonald’s gift card to Joshua Taylor, winner of the arbor’s Tomato Plant Story Contest. Community Project #10, Special Holiday Project #23 — In celebration of the Christmas season, the arbor hosted a party for those who volunteer with the Montrose Depot and Veterans Bell Memorial. Guests enjoyed many delicious snacks and munchies provided by the arbor. During the arbor’s January meeting, a $1,000 donation was presented to the Taymouth Township Fire Department toward the purchase of an off-road rescue vehicle.
USA Arbor (MI)
Vulcaneer Arbor (MI) Youth Organization Activity #22 — In support of a local Boy Scout troop, the arbor sponsored a food fundraiser. Preorders were taken for delicious chicken cooked just in time for Super Bowl parties. The arbor got a great discount on the chicken through Millington Pizza. The Boy Scouts collected the orders and assisted with the event.
White Pine Arbor (MI) Environmental Activity #4, Learning As An Arbor #14, Healthy Lifestyle and Safety Activity #20 — The arbor hosted a presentation on hazardous waste at the Lupton Fire Department. Members and guests learned about common household items that are hazardous. Members served fresh fruit and vegetables along with bottled water. They also handed out flyers promoting the arbor and Gleaner and donated $100 to the fire department.
Community Project #10, Youth Organization Activity #22 — Members joined with youth from the Super Heroes in Training 4-H Club for a very moving
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Join us for a summer picnic! At these potluck events, Gleaner provides the main dish. Guests are asked to bring their own table service and a generous dish or two to share.
Upcoming Events Flag Day 2016 Tuesday, June 14 | 11 a.m. EDT
Nebraska/Gleoma Arbor Family Picnic
Northern Michigan Family Picnic
Sunday, June 5 | 4 p.m. CDT
Saturday, Aug. 6 | 1 p.m. EDT
Cooper Farm 8502 Mormon Bridge Road Omaha, Nebraska
Weidman Community Center 3432 N. Woodruff Road Weidman, Michigan
Gleaner’s 2016 Family Safari to Kalahari
Indiana Family Picnic
Southern Michigan Family Picnic
Registration opens May 1 at www.gleanerlife.org.
Sunday, June 26 | 12:30 p.m. CDT LaPorte County Fairgrounds 2581 W. State Road 2 LaPorte, Indiana
Illinois Family Picnic Sunday, July 10 | 12:30 p.m. CDT Coal City Lions Club 460 S. Illinois Street Coal City, Illinois
Michigan Thumb Area Family Picnic Saturday, July 16 | 1 p.m. EDT Bethany United Methodist Church 353 E. Vienna Street Clio, Michigan
Ohio Family Picnic Saturday, July 30 | 1 p.m. EDT The Lighthouse 10055 W. U.S. Route 224 Findlay, Ohio
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Saturday, Aug. 13 | 1 p.m. EDT Lenawee County Fairgrounds 602 Dean Street Adrian, Michigan
Gleaner Life Insurance Society Home Office 5200 W. U.S. Hwy. 223 Adrian, Michigan
Nov. 18-20, 2016
Gleaner Getaway Tours
Benny’s Charity Auctions at summer picnics Benny’s Charity Auctions 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 prize 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.
Pigeon Forge and Smoky Mountains April 25-29, 2016
Registration is closed.
Gleaner will host charity auctions in every
New England and Cape Cod
state except Nebraska.
Sept. 19-26, 2016 T h e A r b o r Ne w s le t te r
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Members gather for Spring Training Event and Snowbird Picnic As February turned to March, 200 Gleaner members and snowbirds gathered for the 27th annual Snowbird Picnic and 12th annual Spring Training Event in Florida. Check out these photos to see how everyone enjoyed the events in Gleaner’s sunniest member state!
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Matching funds Gleaner offers two fund-matching opportunities for Arbors: 4-H Helping Hands Donation #16 helps fund 4-H organizations in members’ communities, while Caring Hands Donations #17 benefits families and individuals in need of direct donations. The following arbors recently completed Samaritan matching fund activities.
4-H Helping Hands Donation #16 Adrian Arbor (MI), Alma Arbor (MI), Bavarian Arbor (MI), Birch Run Arbor (MI), Bowling Green Arbor (OH), Crystal Lake Arbor (MI), Fallen Timbers Arbor (OH), Florida Arbor (OH), Mill Creek Arbor (IN), Ober Arbor (IN), Orchard Arbor (MI), Plank Road Arbor (MI), South County Arbor (IN).
Help Gleaner support the ADA’s Tour de Cure For the past 75 years, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) has been actively working to fight the consequences of diabetes, a disease that impacts an estimated 30 million Americans. Another estimated 86 million have prediabetes without even knowing it. All of this work by the ADA takes money and volunteers. In 2016, Gleaner Life Insurance Society is once again happy to continue its support of this worthy organization. Gleaner employees and guests will participate in the American Diabetes Association's Tour de Cure road bike ride on Saturday, June 11, at Washtenaw Community College in Ann Arbor, Michigan. This will be the 25th year the ADA has sponsored the Tour de Cure. Consider joining the ride, if you live near Ann Arbor, or donating to Team Gleaner. To register or to make a donation, visit main.diabetes.org/goto/teamgleaner.
Total amount given since Sept. 1, 2015:
$19,960.00 Caring Hands Donation #17 Alma Arbor (MI), Community Arbor (IN), Entrican Arbor (MI), Fallen Timbers Arbor (OH), Floyd Arbor (MI), Harmony Arbor (MI), Holland Arbor (MI), Huron Shores Arbor (M), Maple City Arbor (MI), North Central Michigan Arbor (MI), Rivertown Arbor (MI), South Fairfield Arbor (MI/OH), Tecumseh Arbor (MI), White Pine Arbor (MI).
Total amount donated to those in need under this activity since Sept. 1, 2015:
$25,100.00
Meetings Huron Shores Arbor (MI) Madison Arbor (MI)
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Donations Bavarian Arbor (MI) — Special Holiday Project #23, $200 to Bethesda Home. Birch Run Arbor (MI) — $50 to the Birch Run VFW food drive. 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. Entrican Arbor (MI) — Community Project #10, $200 to Child Safety of America Inc.; $100 to Entrican Bible Church in memory of Mabel Crooks. 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. 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.
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Animal Support #11 — George Sperlbaum, third from left, and Liz Williams, far right, of the Cherryland Human Society receive a donation from Crystal Lake Arbor (MI) members Dorothy Goethals, Patrick Cutler, Dianna Cutler, Fred Goethals and Norris Cutler.
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. Ober Arbor (IN) — Animal Support #11, $123.00 to Starke County Humane Society. 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. 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. 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.
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Greater Flint Area Arbor (MI) members visit the North End Food Kitchen, where they donated $205.
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. Tri County Arbor (MI) — Patriotic Activity #3, $201.72 for 57th Biennial Convention charity tote; $1,500 for Kenya Project.
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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
Kalahari registration opens May 1 Mark your calendars! Registration for Gleaner’s Family Safari to Kalahari opens May 1. This annual event brings Gleaner members and guests together for poolside fun at one of North America’s largest indoor water parks. Located in Sandusky, Ohio, the Kalahari Resort offers a wide range of entertainment for both children and adults. Gleaner offers this trip at discounted rates for the weekend of Nov. 18-20, 2016, and sponsors a free Saturday night pizza party. For rates and registration information, visit www.gleanerlife.org/kalahari. We look forward to seeing you there!