Gleaner members enjoyed a spring getaway to the Smoky Mountains in April.
In this issue: Summer picnics Smoky Mountain Getaway Tour recap Gleaner Getaway Trip to New England & Cape Cod
The Arbor Newsletter is published bi-monthly by Kevin A. Marti President and CEO
Fraternal Department Sherry L. Nino Vice President, Fraternal Operations
Michelle Horn Fraternal Manager
Jaime Linden Fraternal Engagement Coordinator
Jessica Vasher Sr. Fraternal Specialist
Kirsten Stiver
Sept. 19-26, 2016 Registration is now open for the New England and Cape Cod Getaway Tour. Join us Sept. 19-26, 2016, for a tour that includes:
Fraternal Specialist
•
The Berkshires
Fraternal Committee
•
The Vanderbilt family’s summer home (“The Breakers”)
Sherry L. Nino
•
The Big E Fair
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Quadrangle world-class museums
•
Cranberry farm bog tour
•
Brick Market Place
•
Shaker Village
•
Historic Salem Cross Inn
Capital Arbor (MI)
•
Whale- and seal-watching cruises
Deb Rydberg
•
… and much more!
Chair
June Lenig Co-Chair Rolling Prairie Arbor (IN)
Stephanie Andresen Gleoma Arbor (NE)
Karen Lowder
Heart of Florida Arbor (FL)
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 New England and Cape Cod with Gleaner!
The A rb o r Ne w s l e t te r March/April
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!
Rate per person Double-occupancy
$1,349
Triple-occupancy
$1,235
Quadruple-occupancy
$1,154
Single-occupancy
$1,759
2016
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To my dear Gleaner family, My, oh my! How could the past 35 years have gone on so long… but yet so fleetingly? Going through drawers of our old paper files filled with years of events brought back so many memories. Memories of members who became such dear friends… memories of all the crazy things my predecessor (he doesn’t like me to say my “old boss!”) Bill Warner got me into … memories of the fun events and Gleaner getaways… memories of the two “Big Events” we hosted here on Home Office grounds… memories of the overwhelming generosity of our arbor members and those who have been helped… memories of the fun times with my coworkers here at the Home Office… and sadly memories of those wonderful members/friends who have passed on. They all fill my heart with love, pride, and a lot of wondering how did we ever do all this! Then I think of those who made my life here at Gleaner possible. Thank you to my husband, “Pack Mule” Phil, daughter, Julie, son-in-law, Art, and (love of my life) grandson, Lucas, who shared me with all of you! They have been along my side in so many ways… enduring my stress, celebrating OUR successes, and always lending a hand. To Bill Warner who hired me that fateful day in 1981… and Frank Dick who approved my hiring… I sincerely thank you both. I worked with them for 21+ years. Without your guidance, knowledge, kindness, and a lot of patience, plus letting me have fun and be creative (leasing goats to be milked at our ‘97 convention pushed it a bit!), I would not be where I am today. (FYI – Bill’s still telling the story that he hired me even though I almost ran him over with my car on my way to the interview! Do not believe this! He was simply in my way!) My thanks also to CEO Kevin Marti who is still today trying to figure out what to believe of all these stories… thanks KAM! Most of you have heard me say that I had the best job in the place! I’ve personally witnessed the amazing things our members do… all on behalf of their insurance company! And what a great Society we have! Providing an avenue and Gleaner resources to help you… help others… has kept me going all these years. Without all of you, none of what “I” am given credit for would have been accomplished. For me, it’s all about you, the members. I am so very appreciative. I will miss my Gleaner “family” of friends and somehow have to figure out how not to work! My departure is easier knowing that I have a terrific and dedicated Fraternal Department team in place – Michelle Horn, Jaime Linden, Jessica Vasher and our newbie Kirsten Stiver – who are so very competent to carry on the legacy Bill and I built. They somehow made me look better than possible! Thank you, Ladies. I treasure you all and will miss our daily craziness! To our Fraternal Communicators, current and past, thank you for everything you’ve done to help not only the fraternal department but especially our arbors. The multitude of things you oversee for us is amazing. I will miss you all! So, look out Phil! I’m going to be home a whole lot more! We are excited to see where the next phase of our adventure together takes us, and I’m so excited to be able to attend all of Lucas’ baseball games and school events now! As Mr. Dick would say… “Oh yea!” And when you least expect it… you might just see us lending a hand! Please keep in touch. Continued blessings,
Sherry
Sherry Nino retires after 35 years Gleaner Life Insurance Society recently bid farewell to Sherry Nino, longtime vice president of fraternal operations, who retired at the end of May after 35 years of service. Nino joined Gleaner’s staff in 1981 as a secretary in the Fraternal Department, shortly after the Society moved from Birmingham, Michigan, to Adrian, Michigan. Her position advanced to fraternal assistant in 1988 and to vice president in 2008. “It can be said unequivocally that no one at Gleaner is better known or respected throughout our whole membership for their many contributions to our local service clubs (arbors), which are our primary means of providing volunteer opportunities for our members. These community service and outreach programs make such a positive impact in the communities in which Gleaner members live and serve,” said Kevin Marti, president and CEO of Gleaner Life Insurance Society. “On behalf of our Board of Directors, our membership and our employees, we thank Sherry for her loyal and dedicated service to the Society over the past 35 years, and wish her a happy, healthy retirement.” As vice president of fraternal operations, Nino supervised Fraternal Department staff, coordinated the Society’s arbor/lodge system and development of new arbors throughout six states, and planned fraternal activities. She also managed the activities of Gleaner’s state associations and fraternal communicators. Nino’s professional affiliations included national and state organizations. She represented the Society first as a chair of the Michigan Fraternal Congress (MFC) Executive Board and then served as MFC president. She was also a member of the American Fraternal Alliance’s Advocacy Task Force. Locally, Nino volunteers for community service projects and activities as a member of Adrian Arbor. Thank you, Sherry, for your years of dedicated service to Gleaner and the community. You will be greatly missed!
Arbor Activities Bavarian Arbor (MI) Mission for LIFE® #5 — Teena Lashbrook led a Mission for LIFE® bingo presentation. Educating Youth #12 — The arbor awarded $500 scholarships to local students Madison Medina and Keri Frahm. Environmental Activity #4 — Seven members met at the Millington Kirk Elementary School on April 20 to separate and wrap 525 tree seedlings. These trees were presented to students in grades K-4. This was in recognition of Arbor Day to teach about the importance of trees are to our environment.
Bay Area Arbor (FL)
April 23. The group sewed, pinned, threaded and tied quilts. The group finished 10 quilts to donate to the Holy Cross rehab facility in Saginaw and 12 pillowcases to donate to the Foster Closet in Clio. The arbor donated $500 to help offset the cost of the materials. Get Your Arbor Recognized #9 — Arbor members partnered with the Taymouth Township Fire Project to co-sponsor a pancake breakfast fundraiser. CSR Award & Membership Pin #2, Invite an Elected Public Official #19 — The arbor presented CSR Awards to Olivia Kendziorski (youth), Robin Sullivan (adult) and Barry Cusick (senior) at a special banquet at the Bavarian Inn. Michigan state Sen. Ken Horn presented the awards.
arbor purchased a $200 Meijer gift card to give to the family of Olivia Riley, who recently had to go on a ketogenic diet.
Caro Arbor (MI) Bring-A-Guest Event #1, Mission for LIFE® #5, Learning as an Arbor #14 — Teena Lashbrook led arbor members in a Mission for LIFE® bingo presentation.
Educating Youth #12 — Arbor members donated 130 graphing calculators, printing supplies and graphing paper to the math department at East Bay High School. Healthy Lifestyle and Safety Activity #20, Elderly Support #21 — Arbor members sold strawberry shortcakes at the Sun City Fun Fest to raise $600 for the Southeastern Guide Dogs Association.
Birch Run Arbor (MI) honored CSR Award recipients in March. Arbor President Jan Pollard is pictured with award winners Barry Cusick, Robin Sullivan and Olivia Kendziorski and Michigan state Sen. Ken Horn.
Bowling Green Arbor (OH) In February, Bay Area Arbor (FL) donated calculators and other supplies to math teachers Tim Mays and Mary Ferguson from East Bay High School.
Birch Run Arbor (MI)
Capital Arbor (MI)
Community Project #10, Educating Youth #12, Learning as an Arbor #14 — The Faithful Sewers taught arbor members and volunteers from the local high school how to make quilts and pillowcases on 3
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Youth Organization Activity #22 — Bowling Green Arbor worked with St. Mark’s students from Bowling Green State University to prepare and serve a boneless pork cutlet dinner for more than 100 area residents in need.
Healthy Lifestyle and Safety Activity #20 — Arbor members learned about the ketogenic diet, which consists of high fats and proteins and low carbohydrates. The
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Dave Luebbert leads Caro Arbor (MI) members in a demonstration of hands-on CPR.
Center Township Arbor (IN) Bring-A-Guest Event #1, CSR Award & Membership Pin #2, Mission for LIFE® #5 — Arbor members gathered at the Lakeville Fire Station and furnished a turkey meal for volunteer firefighters. Following dinner, Fire Chief George Schafer introduced the firefighters and their families. The arbor donated $375 for the department to purchase a light needed at fires. President Susan Bucholtz then presented Mary Ann Swope with her CSR Award. After the introductions, Terry Bucholtz, Gleaner agent and arbor member, presented MFL bingo. Elderly Support Activity #21 — Arbor members played bingo with residents at Miller’s Merry Manor. g lea ner life.o rg
Wild Card #24 — Chester Arbor (OH) members quilted with Snuggled in Hope, a talented group of women from the Presbyterian Church in Mt. Gilead. They make quilts for children at the Flying Horse Farm Camp who have special health needs as well as for hospitalized infants. Attendees learned how to
Elderly Support #21 — John King and Dave Gerber of Findlay Flag City Arbor (OH) helped facilitate bingo at Sunrise Assisted Living.
make quilt squares from triangles and shared quilting projects.
Chester Arbor (OH)
Crystal Lake Arbor (MI)
Findlay Flag City Arbor (OH)
Healthy Lifestyle and Safety Activity #20 — Two speakers from Morrow County Hospice explained the importance of living wills and health care during an illness with a terminal condition. The arbor donated $300 to Morrow County Hospice. Elderly Support Activity #21 — Arbor members visited Woodside Nursing Home in March where they made Easter egg wreaths, sang Easter songs and played bingo. Historical Site #13 — Arbor members met at the new Little Theater in Cardington where director Joey Powell shared historical facts about the theater. Phyllis Miller from the Morrow County Historical Society shared the history and growth of the group, including information about its new facility on the square in Mt. Gilead. Miller also spoke about the society’s participation in community events and the availability for tours that feature a pottery display, history starting with the Civil War and Morrow County veterans who served in other wars, and the future of a medical display room with items donated by former doctors. The arbor presented both with checks for $250. Community Project #10 — Arbor members participated in the health fair sponsored by Cardington Lincoln School. Chester Arbor had a booth at the event. Benevolent Fund Outreach Activity #8 — Arbor members celebrated the opening of the historical theater in Mt. Gilead with a viewing of The Jungle Book.
Special Holiday Project #23 — Arbor members shopped and delivered groceries for Easter dinners for five local families. Easter candy was also supplied for the children.
Benevolent Fund Outreach Activity #8, Get Your Arbor Recognized #9, Historical Site #13 — The arbor sponsored movie night at the Hancock Historical Museum on April 15. Participants enjoyed complimentary popcorn, water, cookies and soda while they watched Singing in the Rain.
gl eane rlife.org
Emerald Echo Arbor (OH) Bring-A-Guest Event #1, Learning as an Arbor #14, Healthy Lifestyle and Safety Activity #20 — Connie Gatehouse from the Louisville YMCA talked about living a healthy lifestyle and demonstrated exercises that promote healthy living. The arbor donated $200.
Florida Arbor (OH) Community Project #10 — Arbor members collected nonperishable food for the Shalom Food Pantry. The arbor donated $100 to Shalom Food Pantry as well as Liberty Chapel food pantry. Elderly Support Activity #21 — Joel Miller, a board member of Henry County FISH and director of Henry County Chamber of Commerce, spoke about how FISH helps residents in need. Arbor members also joined Country View Haven residents for bingo. The arbor donated prizes.
Emerald Echo Arbor (OH) donated $200 to Carol Shoop and an educational growth project called The Power of the Pen to encourage creative writing among youth in Ohio.
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Greater Flint Area Arbor (MI)
Healthy Lifestyle and Safety Activity #20 — Floyd Arbor (MI) hosted a dedication, complete with refreshments and fire extinguishers, for the Anthony and Stacey Brown Habitat for Humanity home. The Brown family of eight includes Anthony and Stacey, Jasmine, Javeion, Jalen, Jeremiah, and (front) twins Joslyn and Jaclyn.
Glen Arbor (MI) Bring-A-Guest Event #1, Mission for LIFE® #5, Get Your Arbor Recognized #9 — Teena Lashbrook, Gleaner agent and Huron Shores Arbor secretary, led participants in Mission for LIFE ® bingo. The local Lions Club, including district governor Leo James Dolehanty (District 11D-1) joined the arbor for the evening. CSR Award & Membership Pin #2, Learning as an Arbor #14, Invite an Elected Public Official #19 — The arbor presented CSR Awards to Cathy Myers (senior), Kerry Paulson (adult), John Racine (youth) and Andrew Weichel (youth). During the meeting, the arbor presented donations to several groups, including Genesee County Fair ($1,500), Clio Historical Society
($100), Clio Senior Center ($100), Demolay/ Clio ($150), Jobs Daughter/Clio ($150), Jobs Daughters/Mt. Morris ($150), Marines Taking Care of Kids ($200) and Clio Middle School Chess Club ($150). Myers also spoke about the role of a farrier, a blacksmith specializing in equine hoof care. Environmental Activity #4, Educating Youth #12 — Arbor members and Garner Elementary Principal John Darga and honor students planted a tulip poplar tree in honor of Earth Day. Arbor President Steve Cameron then spoke at the school assembly about Earth Day and Arbor Day.
Elderly Support Activity #21, Special Holiday Project #23 — Arbor members gathered at Swank Home Assisted Living in Swartz Creek on March 17 to present a St. Patrick’s Day holiday program to the elderly residents. Arbor members dressed in green with Irish pins and leprechaun hats to set the mood. Sarah Hogan worked with her first-grade students to create holiday cards showing large rainbows and cheery greetings for each of the residents. Special St. Patrick’s Day box lunches were delivered by Catholic Charities. Educating Youth #12, Youth Organization Activity #22 — Arbor members hosted a pizza party at Weston Elementary School in Burton to thank students for making cards for Swank Home Assisted Living residents. Arbor members shared about the importance of volunteering.
Gleoma Arbor (NE) Wild Card #24 — The arbor hosted a Snow Blow and Go event to clean snow from driveways and walks for people in their neighborhoods who are unable to take care of it.
Greater Flint Area Arbor (MI) members presented a St. Patrick’s Day program for the residents at Swank Home Assisted Living. Harry Mitchell, a recent CSR Award honoree and professional actor, led the group with tales, jokes and an Irish sing-along.]
Gulf Coast Arbor (FL)
At its March meeting, Glen Arbor (MI) donated checks to several local organizations and posed with a big check displaying the grand total of $3,850.
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Historical Site #13 — Arbor members visited the Ringling Museum in Sarasota to purchase four tickets for the museum. These tickets were donated for the silent auction at St. Jude Church Gala. Mission for LIFE® #5, Invite an Elected Public Official #19 — Edward James III, who is running for state representative for District 72 in Sarasota County, attended the meeting where participants played Mission for LIFE® bingo. g lea ner life.o rg
Youth Organization Activity #22 — Gulf Coast Arbor (FL) members helped youth from St. Jude with their REBOOT for Life, led by Chris Stefanic and Jon Nevic.
Harmony Arbor (MI) hosted an event at Rosewood Adult Foster Care, where the father-son duo of Kevin and Jason Derry played the guitar and keyboard and led sing-alongs.
Harmony Arbor (MI)
Hawthorne Arbor (IN)
Elderly Support Activity #21 — David McMacken, Gratiot historian, spoke to the residents and guests of Rosewood Adult Foster Care. He told them about the building, which was formerly the Gratiot County Poor Farm before it was converted into the foster care facility. Benevolent Fund Outreach Activity #8 — The arbor offered a free movie, Zootopia, to Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Gratiot Montcalm Counties, East Washington United Brethren Church youth group, St. Louis Church of God youth group, St. Louis Baptist Children’s Home residents and the Alma United Methodist youth group. One hundred thirteen individuals attended and were treated to free popcorn, candy and a beverage.
Wild Card #24 — The arbor had a booth at the Lowell High School field house for the Lowell Chamber of Commerce Business and Community Showcase. The arbor passed out literature and promotional items. Animal Support #11 — Arbor members purchased $200 worth of cleaning supplies and dog and cat food and then presented the donations to the Lake County Animal Control Shelter in Crown Point, Indiana. Mission for LIFE® #5 — Gleaner Board Member and Arbor President Dan Sutton led Mission for LIFE® bingo. Educating Youth #12, Learning as an Arbor #14 — Thirteen members of Hawthorne Arbor met at Oak Hill Elementary School with 26 students (fourth- and fifth-graders on the student council) and five teachers to make fourfoot-square fleece blankets. The group completed 26 blankets in three and a half hours to donate to Riley Children’s Hospital in Indianapolis.
Harrison Arbor (OH) Healthy Lifestyle and Safety Activity #20 — In honor of National Nutrition Month in March, the arbor invited Hannah Arnos, dietitian tech at Henry County Hospital, to speak about healthy eating. CSR Award & Membership Pin #2, Invite an Elected Public Official #19, Elderly Support #21 — The arbor recognized Joyce Blair, Doris Reighard, Ronald Fisher and Daniel Light with 75-year pins. The arbor then presented checks to Sharon Church ($250), Henry County Hospice ($400), Henry County Hospital Foundation ($400), Henry County Senior Center ($400). Other organizations not able to attend included Henry County Extension 4-H, Women’s Resource Center and Salvation Army. gl eane rlife.org
Heart of Florida Arbor (FL) Special Holiday Project #23 — The arbor coordinated and partnered with Agape Food Bank, Elder Point Ministries and Mulberry churches to obtain, package and distribute a holiday food box to 250 families in the community. In total, $4,250 worth of food was donated. The arbor also partnered with Kiwanis of Mulberry to provide Christmas toy shopping worth $4,500 for the parents of 100 children. Get Your Arbor Recognized #9, Healthy T h e A r b o r Ne w s le t te r
Elderly Support Activity #21 — Heart of Florida Arbor (FL) hosted and officiated the track-and-field portion of the Polk Senior Games, providing power bars and water for volunteers. These games are the largest in the country and attract participants from across the state.
Lifestyle and Safety Activity #20 — The arbor hosted a health and safety fair at the Colonnades Clubhouse with 20 vendors. Guests had an opportunity to participate in workshops held throughout the event.
Heritage Arbor (MI) members take a group photo in their new arbor T-shirts. Bottom row: Fran, Beth, Judy, Rae, Deb, Norma, Dawn, Peggy; back row: Duane, Ann, Daryl, Debby, George, Brenda, Burt, Chris.
Heritage Arbor (MI) Bring-A-Guest Event #1, Special Holiday Project #23 — Santa handed out Christmas bags and visited with the children. Historical site #13 — The arbor celebrated a Pioneer Christmas at the Williams Winter Wonderland where members made crafts. Patriotic Activity #3, Elderly Support Activity #21 — Arbor members served a chicken and ham luncheon to senior citizens and veterans at the Davison Area Senior Center. Veteran Harry Kayler has written two books from the Korean War, which were on display. Donated gifts were given out to attendees. M ay /J u n e 2 016
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CSR Award & Membership Pin #2, Mission for LIFE® #5, Get Your Arbor Recognized #9, Animal Support #11, Invite an Elected Public Official #19 — The arbor recognized the following people with CSR Awards: Emily Vito (youth), Brenda Smith (adult) and Wendall Kelly (senior). Volunteer Service Pins were presented to Burt and Peggy Banks for their many contributions. Monetary donations of $250 each were made to the Forest Township Senior Center, St. Francis Food Pantry, Davison Passion Players, Daughters of the American Revolution for Animal Care and Lakeville Band Boosters.
Al Rakib, Amia Benson, Delaney Stersic, Kali Harrington, Alexa Blohm, Nicole Olden and Bill Blackerby of Madison Arbor (MI) make fleece blankets for the VA Hospital in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Holland Arbor (OH) Caring Hands #17 — Valery Newton, a 10-year-old who lost her left leg because of complications from cancer, spoke about her journey. She is trying to get a bionic leg so she can continue dancing at the Gabby School in Novi, Michigan. The arbor donated $500 toward her new leg.
Huron Shores Arbor (MI) Learning as an Arbor #14 — Arbor members participated in Painting with a Twist, where everyone created a masterpiece.
Maple City Arbor (MI) members present a check to Lenawee Therapeutic Riding.
Law Arbor (MI) Mission for LIFE® #5, 4-H Helping Hands #16 — Ken Buck made a Mission for LIFE® presentation to arbor members and guests. The arbor also presented Taylor McCann with $180 for tuition at 4-H Youth Exploration Days at Michigan State University in June. Bill Burns, manager of the Old Town Soup Kitchen, was also in attendance to accept a $500 donation.
Lenawee Community Arbor (MI) Healthy Lifestyle and Safety Activity #20 — The arbor hosted a salsa dancing event at Encore Dance Studio in Adrian, Michigan. Participants learned steps from instructor Ashleigh Alarcon of Dance Tonight in Ann Arbor. This event also served as a fundraiser for the Make-A-Wish® Foundation. The arbor donated $100 to the foundation on behalf of Encore Dance Studio. 7
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Madison Arbor (MI) Patriotic Activity #3, Youth Organization Activity #22 — Arbor members worked with 14 Madison High School Interact Club students to make five fleece tie blankets and donated them to the VA Hospital in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
Youth Organization Activity #22 — Arbor members joined with the cast of Adrian High School’s “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” for their Friday night production. Arbor members greeted guests, passed out programs with youth and assisted youth with selling cookies and flowers before the show.
Maple City Arbor (MI)
Marion Arbor (MI)
Animal Support #11 — The arbor presented pet supplies and food to the Lenawee Humane Society along with an event sponsorship check for the annual Walk ‘n Wag event. Arbor members also toured and presented a check to Lenawee Therapeutic Riding for the second Animal Support project. Lenawee Therapeutic Riding provides horseback riding and a specifically designed program involving the use of horses and ponies for physically and emotionally impaired individuals.
CSR Award & Membership Pin #2 — Arbor President Carl Geyer presented Roy Thompson with the CSRA clock. Healthy Lifestyle and Safety Activity #20, Elderly Support Activity #21 — Arbor members along with Kathy Spoelma and Lisa Noland from Dynamic Therapy met at the Senior Meal Site in Marion to present a program on senior therapy. Seniors learned of the many benefits to the body with special therapy.
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Benevolent Fund Outreach Activity #8 — Helen Maddock and Bonnie Pier and other Oakwood Arbor (OH) members helped to clean the Habitat for Humanity House in Oakwood and donated $750 toward the cause.
Mid-Michigan Arbor (MI) Bring-A-Friend Event #1, CSR Award & Membership Pin #2, Invite an Elected Public Official #19 — The arbor met at the Shipyard Restaurant in Bay City to honor CSR Award recipients Matthew Billette (youth) for his 400 hours of volunteer service; Charles Cogan (adult) for his volunteer efforts with the Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts and his church; and Thomas Matuszewski (senior), who volunteers with Crime Stoppers and Bay City Lions Club and Knights of Columbus Council. District Representative Jim McLoskey of Bay City presented CSRA recipients with plaques and thanked them for their volunteer service. Arbor President Mike Stuart presented Thomas Matuszewski of Crime Stoppers with a check. Mission for LIFE® #5, Elderly Support Activity #21 — The arbor provided lunch for the seniors and made a Mission for LIFE® presentation with a game of bingo and handed our prizes. The seniors enjoyed the presentation and prizes.
Mill Creek Arbor (IN) 4-H Helping Hands #16, Elderly Support Activity #21, Youth Organization Activity #22 — Mill Creek Arbor met at Miller’s Merry Manor in New Carlisle on Feb. 13, to make Valentine’s Day cards with a group of Girl and Boy Scouts. Afterward, the youth passed out valentines to the residents. Jeremy and Wesley Smith from the LaPorte County 4-H shooting program joined for the activity, and Mike Graves gl eane rlife.org
Wild Card #24 — Plank Road Arbor (MI) hosted a fundraiser for the Breckenridge Odyssey of the Mind Teams.
presented a Helping Hands check for $1,000 to help the program purchase needed supplies.
Mt. Pleasant Arbor (MI) Elderly Support Activity #21, Special Holiday Project #23 — Arbor members met at Rosebush Manor for Easter bingo with residents.
North Baltimore Arbor (OH) Learning as an Arbor #14, Wild Card #24 — Arbor members met at the Fire Relief Foundation in Findlay, Ohio, where Emily Stevers shared that the foundation was started in her garage after she experienced a fire that heavily damaged her house on June 10, 2013. The blaze was estimated at $180,000. The family decided to tear it down and start over, even though they took a loss as so much wasn’t covered under their insurance policy. The foundation has a nine-member board and is a nonprofit 501(c)(3). It was designed to assist victims of home fires for up to a year after fires. Families can come back as many times as they need in that first year. Once they pick out what they need, it can be loaded into a truck and delivered. The foundation provides clothing, furniture, household items and toys free of charge. Benevolent Fund Outreach Activity #8, Invite an Elected Public Official #19, Youth Organization Activity #22 — After visiting the Fire Relief Foundation, Gleaner members enlisted the North Baltimore Cub Scouts to help make twin-size fleece tie blankets for the foundation.
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Oakwood Arbor (OH) Elderly Support Activity #21, Youth Organization Activity #22 — With the help of a local Girl Scout troop, arbor members facilitated bingo at Glenn Park Senior Living. Environmental Activity #4 — Arbor members helped staff the Area 1 Envirothon at the Paulding County Fairgrounds. This was a competitive, academic outdoor event for 52 schools in studies of aquatics, soil, forestry, current issues and natural resources. Participants were judged on their knowledge, and top teams will compete at the state level at Bowling Green University.
Orchard Arbor (MI) Learning as an Arbor #14, Healthy Lifestyle and Safety Activity #20, Youth Organization Activity #22 — The arbor was a sponsor at a 4-H bowling fundraiser, where members learned more about the 4-H program. A sign with the arbor name was displayed above the lane. The arbor invited and paid for Girl Scouts to enjoy the activity and exercise of bowling.
Plank Road Arbor (MI) Bring-A-Guest Event #1, Mission for LIFE® #5 — Arbor members and guests learned about life insurance through a bingo game facilitated by Kelsie Kuflewski and Kelly Packard. Wild Card #24 — The arbor hosted a fundraiser event for the Breckenridge Odyssey of the Mind Teams. Five teams performed their skits at our event. Each of these teams performed at a regional level, and most of the general public was not able to attend because of location. M ay /J u n e 2 016
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Sulphur Springs Arbor (IL)
Benevolent Fund Outreach Activity #8 — Portage Center Arbor (OH) sponsored an afternoon of free bowling for multiple youth groups, including Country Guys & Gals 4-H Club, Cloverdale United Methodist Church youth group and Bridge Fellowship youth group.
Portage Center Arbor (OH) Environmental Activity #4 — Amanda Gamby, environmental educator from the Wood County Solid Waste District, shared information about waste districts in Ohio, spoke about recycling and answered questions. Educating Youth #12 — Six arbor members served at the Elmwood Elementary School Library for the day reading to classes from grades K-4. Books had been newly purchased for the library by the arbor, and its banner was displayed at the school where 151 children and three teachers were present for the readings.
Rivertown Arbor (MI)
Rolling Prairie Arbor (IN) Mission for LIFE® #5, Invite an Elected Public Official #19, Wild Card #24 — Arbor members invited guests, including the ladies’ auxiliary, wounded warrior Jeremy Vorhees, Cub Scout Pack 350 and Jim Pressel, who is running for state representative, to a meeting at VFW Post 9423 to host a chicken noodle dinner and participate in Mission for The A rb o r Ne w s l e t te r
Saginaw Arbor (MI) CSR Award & Membership Pin #2 — The arbor invited CSR Award recipients and families to dinner at Macy’s Lakeshore Grill, where they honored the winners.
South County Arbor (IN)
Bring-A-Guest Event #1, Benevolent Fund Outreach Activity #8 — The arbor invited members and guests to a day exploring the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum. They provided goody bags for the children. While there, arbor members spent two and a half hours peeling labels off crayons and sorting them by color. The crayons are eventually melted to make puzzle pieces to support autism.
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LIFE® bingo. More than 275 people attended the event, which also included a silent auction and 50/50 raffle. Environmental Activity #4 — The arbor helped administer an Earth Day program at a local school where Alishia Ebaugh from Solid Waste spoke about composting and earthworms. The children sorted worms and looked for baby worms and eggs.
Mission for LIFE® #5 — Rhonda Graves led the arbor in a Mission for LIFE® presentation. Elderly Support Activity #21 — The arbor went to Settlers House in La Porte and played bingo with residents.
Special Holiday Project #23 — Arbor members gathered at the Whistle Stop for a Christmas party and donated $204 to adopt a family from We Care. Learning as an Arbor #14 — Sandy Price spoke about the Shorewood HUGS organization in which she is involved and the 007 Chocolate Ball fundraiser it was having on Feb. 6. Five women started the HUGS program to help people with cancer, ill children, tornado victims, house fire victims and more. It has given back over $300,000 to surrounding communities in the last seven years and now has 53 members. CSR Award & Membership Pin #2, Caring Hands #17 — The arbor named Ida Schopp, Donna Wharrie and Conner Super as CSR Award winners. At the same meeting, Dalton Meyer and Brandon Belchur were recipients of the Caring Hands Donation.
Tecumseh Arbor (MI) Caring Hands #17 — For half of its Caring Hands project, the arbor purchased and shipped three pallets of water to Flint, Michigan. The arbor also sent a $500 check to Communities in Schools. Community Project #10, Wild Card #24 — Debbie Lawson and Jane Poczatek from the Tecumseh Public Library spoke about the Clara Waldron Historic Room and the library. The arbor donated $250 to the library. Educating Youth #12 — Arbor members along with 366 inductees, members and guests attended the Tecumseh High School National Honor Society induction ceremony April 21. The arbor supported the event by furnishing and serving refreshments.
South Fairfield Arbor (MI/OH)
Tri County Arbor (MI)
Youth Organization Activity #22 — Arbor members gathered with our partner 4-H Club, Goats & ‘Udder’ Things, for a potluck, fun and awards from the prior 4-H year. Youth received tickets for a Chinese auction, and many awards were presented to the club members and the dedicated adult leaders. Our arbor purchased the pins that the 4-H members earned.
CSR Award & Membership Pin #2, Mission for LIFE® #5, Invite an Elected Public Official #19 — The arbor honored three individuals with CSR Awards: Eric Vandefifer (youth), Dennis Crispell (adult) and Lois Hayna (senior). Fifty-two people attended the meeting where the arbor donated $3,000 to the following organizations: Montrose Train Depot, Junction of Hope, Montrose Fire Department, Montrose Police Department, Rachel’s Closet, Taymouth Township Fire
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Environmental Activity #4 — USA Arbor (MI) hosted an assembly where Eugene Clark made a presentation titled “Think Green,” which helped students think about the four Rs: Recycle, Reuse, Reduce and Restore. They also worked with the National Honor Society from USA High School to package 500 Norwegian pines, which were given out after the assembly.
Department, American Legion and Veterans Bell Memorial. Following the award ceremony, participants played Mission for LIFE® bingo.
USA Arbor (MI) Elderly Support Activity #21, Special Holiday Project #23 — The arbor threw an Easter party at Vadavilla Adult Foster Care in Unionville. Members led residents in bingo and distributed bags of Easter candy and classic movies.
White Pine Arbor (MI) CSR Award & Membership Pin #2, Mission for LIFE® #5, Invite an Elected Public Official #19 — The arbor met at Coco Cabanas in West Branch, Michigan, for dinner and to honor CSR Award recipients Courtney Boyd (youth), Gilbert Scott (adult) and Richard and Grace Dooley (seniors).
Educating Youth #12 — The arbor planned for author Lane Walker to visit Vassar Elementary students. Lane writes hunting adventure books for kids. He had a group of volunteer children put on animal costumes and perform follow-the-leader dance moves. He spoke on the importance of reading and the benefits of never giving up.
Competitive scholarship opportunities are just one of the benefits we offer to our members. To learn more about the scholarship program and to view the 2016 recipients, visit us online at www.gleanerlife.org. Look for photographs and information on each of the recipients in the fall 2016 issue of Forum Magazine.
West Lockport Arbor (IL)
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2016 Scholarship recipients announced Since 1980, the Gleaner Life Insurance Society Scholarship Foundation has awarded scholarships totaling more than $2.6 million to Gleaner members and their families. This year, the foundation awarded $225,000 in educational funding. The top 50 Gleaner recipients each received $3,000 scholarships, while 50 more Gleaner members and family members were each awarded $1,500 scholarships.
Vulcaneer Arbor (MI)
Historical Site #13 — Arbor members met at the Rialto to help the preservation society continue its goal to maintain and preserve this historic theater. Learning as an Arbor #14 — Arbor members discussed the changes to the Social Security system. Animal Support #11 — Arbor members helped clean the Humane Society, wiping down cages and vacuuming.
CSR Award & Membership Pin #2 — Vulcaneer Arbor (MI) President Chad Fabbro presented Toni Schribner (adult) and Sarah Bertoia (youth) with CSR Awards.
White Pine Arbor (MI) awarded Richard and Grace Dooley with the senior CSR Award.
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Online scholarship applications for 2017 will be available beginning Nov. 1, 2016. M ay /J u n e 2 016
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Smoky Mountain Getaway Tour Recap Gleaner members enjoyed a spring getaway to the Smoky Mountains in April. Forty-three participants enjoyed the Smoky Mountain Opry Theater where they toured many attractions. Some of the highlights: • • • • •
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“The Smith Morning Show” with Charlie Bob Smith. “America’s Hit Parade Dinner Show,” which featured great music from the ‘50s and ‘60s. A moving patriotic tribute for all veterans in attendance. Titanic Museum, which houses items recovered from the Titanic. Step-on tour of Smoky Mountain National Park.
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Donations Educating Youth #12: Harmony Arbor (MI), Heart of Florida Arbor (FL), Huron Shores Arbor (MI), Saginaw Arbor (MI). Caring Hands Donation #17: Entrican Arbor (MI), Hawthorne Arbor (IN), Gleoma Arbor (NE), Grand Arbor (MI), Homer Township Oak Arbor (IL). Gleaner Scholarship Donation #18: Alma Arbor (MI), Bavarian Arbor (MI), Capital Arbor (MI), Emerald Echo Arbor (OH), Findlay Flag City Arbor (OH), Floyd Arbor (MI), Gleoma Arbor (NE), Grand Arbor (MI), Homer Township Oak Arbor (IL), Lenawee Community Arbor (MI), Maple City Arbor (MI), Mt. Pleasant Arbor (MI), North Baltimore Arbor (OH), North Central Michigan Arbor (MI), Oakwood Arbor (OH), Plank Road Arbor (MI), Portage Center Arbor (OH), Sulphur Springs Arbor (IL), White Pine Arbor (MI). Adrian Arbor (MI): Historical Site #13, $300 for security cameras at the Lenawee Historical Society; $200 to Relay For Life team Hadden’s Hustlers; $100 to Darlene Davis; Patriotic Activity #3, $500 to a van for the VFW. Bavarian Arbor (MI): $200 to List School Book Nook; $275.60 to J&C Outdoors to purchase tires for a needy family’s car; $100 to Millington Kirk PTO.
Rolling Prairie Arbor (IN) played games with the students and served refreshments at Boston Middle School in La Porte, Indiana. The arbor presented a $750 check to the school to purchase needed supplies and equipment for classrooms.
Floyd Arbor (MI): $334.11 for watches for veterans; $500 to New Hope Village; $300 Henry County FISH.
Marion Arbor (MI): $50 to VFW Post 6015; $300 to Jonathon Sthel for educational trip to Peru.
Gleoma Arbor (NE): Elderly Support #21, $100 Target gift card; $500 to Valley View 4-H.
Mt. Pleasant Arbor (MI): $300 to Beal City Public Schools; $200 to Community Compassion Network Nutrition Club; $100 to Commission on Aging memorial for Helen Miller; 4-H Helping Hands #16, $500 to Isabella County Fair Board; $150 to Commission on Aging Have-a-Heart basket.
Grand Arbor (MI): $1,000 to Future Farmers of America. Greater Flint Area Arbor (MI): $200 for books and supplies for first-grade teachers at Weston Elementary School. Harmony Arbor (MI): $100 to Ashley Community Library. Harrison Arbor (OH): $1,000 to OSU Extension Henry County 4-H Washington Focus, Genealogy Trophy & Merit Awards.
North Baltimore Arbor (OH): $100 to Wood County Historical Society Accessibility Project; $50 to North Baltimore Historical Museum; $1,600 to local 4-H programs; $500 to Hoytville Fire Department Capital Campaign for new fire house; $100 to North Baltimore Cub Scouts.
Black Swamp Arbor (OH): $100 each to four area fire departments: Convoy, Cecil, Antwerp and Payne.
Heart of Florida Arbor (FL): $200 to Central Florida Autism Institute.
Bowling Green Arbor (OH): $800 to Wood County 4-H Committee.
Heritage Arbor (MI): $250 to Genesee County Fair Bowling.
Chester Arbor (OH): $300 to the Osborne family; $300 to Bedwell family; $200 to outdoor program for preschool students.
Holland Arbor (OH): $150 to St. Ursula Girls for trailer repair.
Oakwood Arbor (OH): $170 for gifts for Country Inn residents; $50 to Pleasant View Missionary Youth; $200 to Assistance Dogs for Achieving Independence; $200 to P.C. Area Foundation/robotics; $100 to Paulding County DARE; $200 to Paulding/Putnam Electric Co-op Honor Flight; 4-H Helping Hands #16, $1,000 to OSU Extension Office for 4-H camp scholarships.
Lenawee Community Arbor (MI): $225 to Fishes and Loaves; $150 to Lenawee County Humane Society; $1,000 to Boys and Girls Club of Lenawee County.
Plank Road Arbor (MI): $100 for Haiti trip each to Madysen Stoneman, Curtis Doyle and Brooke Young; $100 to Breckenridge United Methodist Church.
Madison Arbor (MI): $1,000 scholarship to Collin Anschuetz; $500 scholarships to Taylor Jones, Rachel Fogarty, Katelyn Payne and Laura Mora.
Portage Center Arbor (OH): $100 to Wood County treasurer; $50 to Hope Lutheran Church; $25 to Bowling Green High School Band.
Crystal Lake Arbor (MI): $750 to Betsie Valley School’s early childhood education fair. Findlay Flag City Arbor (OH): $100 to Hancock Park Foundation; $660 to Hancock Historical Museum; $200 to Maddie Nye to help fund travel to Junior Olympics in California.
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Rivertown Arbor (MI): $500 each to Addie’s Food Pantry and Heartside Ministry; $400 to Hand 2 Hand Ministry. Rolling Prairie Arbor (IN): $500 to Rolling Prairie Community Center. Saginaw Arbor (MI): $750 to Building MidMichigan; $1,000 to Trillium; $100 to Red Riders; Community Project #10, $200 to Support the 1%; Animal Support #11, $200 to purchase food for local sheltered animals; Historical Site #13, $200 to Saginaw Railway Museum; $200 to Kingdom Builders; $423 to His Restoration; $423 to Power of
Dad; 4-H Helping Hands Donation #16, $200 to Stony River Riders 4-H. South Fairfield Arbor (MI/OH): $200 to Berkey Congregational Christian Church for funeral dinner expenses; $200 for Tim Tebow concert; $300 to Village of Metamora for Easter egg hunt; $750 to Evergreen Elementary-Benevolent FundRumpelstiltskin; $200 to One Plus God-Haiti Mission trip sponsorship. Sulphur Springs Arbor (IL): $200 each to Coal City Food Pantry, MVK Food Pantry, Braidwood Food Pantry and Community Thanksgiving Dinner; $100 to Just Animals for pet supplies.
Tecumseh Arbor (MI): $500 to Tecumseh Service Club in the form of –twenty $25 gift cards. USA Arbor (MI): Animal Support #11, $100 to the Thumb Animal Shelter. Vulcaneer Arbor (MI): Caring Hands Donation #17, $1,000 to the Colosky Family whose son Collin recently had heart surgery; 4-H Helping Hands Donation #16, $1,000 to MSU Extension. White Pine Arbor (MI): $180 to Ogemaw County Fair.
Join us for a summer picnic! Our summer picnic schedule is set for 2016. Mark your calendar and plan to join us! These picnics combine food, fun and fellowship for Gleaner members and guests of all ages. At these potluck events, Gleaner provides the main dish, and guests are asked to bring their own table service and a generous dish to share.
Indiana Family Picnic Sunday, June 26 | 12:30 p.m. CDT LaPorte County Fairgrounds 2581 W. State Road 2, LaPorte, Indiana
Illinois Family Picnic
Register for Gleaner’s Family Safari to Kalahari
Sunday, July 10 | 12:30 p.m. CDT Coal City Lions Club 460 S. Illinois St., Coal City, Illinois
Saturday, July 30 | 1 p.m. EDT The Lighthouse 10055 W. U.S. Route 224, Findlay, Ohio
Registration is open for Gleaner’s Family Safari to Kalahari at Kalahari Resort and Waterpark. Plan on joining us for a fun-filled family weekend in Sandusky, Ohio, Nov. 18-20, 2016. Room packages start at just $160 per night* (plus tax) for members and $205 per night* (plus tax) for non-members. The package price includes lodging, admission to the waterpark and a pizza party on Saturday night compliments of Gleaner.
Northern Michigan Family Picnic
New this year! Join us on Friday for
Michigan Thumb Area Family Picnic Saturday, July 16 | 1 p.m. EDT Bethany United Methodist Church 353 E. Vienna St., Clio, Michigan
Ohio Family Picnic
Saturday, Aug. 6 | 1 p.m. EDT Weidman Community Center – Mitchell Park 3432 N. Woodruff Road, Weidman, Michigan
Southern Michigan Family Picnic Saturday, Aug. 13 | 1 p.m. EDT Lenawee County Fairgrounds 602 N. Dean St., Adrian, Michigan
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movie night. Enjoy complimentary popcorn and a current family-friendly movie. One of the largest indoor waterparks in North America, Kalahari boasts plenty of water attractions along with miniature golf, a large arcade, a spa, restaurants and many other activities for landlubbers. For more details and to register, visit www.gleanerlife.org/kalahari. T h e A r b o r Ne w s le t te r M a rc h /Apr i l 2 0 16 *Based on four people per room.
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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
CELEBRATE FLAG DAY WITH GLEANER 30th Annual
FLAG 2016
DAY
Gleaner’s 30th annual Flag Day celebration takes place Tuesday, June 14, at the Gleaner Home Office, 5200 W. U.S. Highway 223, Adrian, Michigan. This event honors all that the American flag represents and is a time to recognize those who have bravely served our country. A patriotic theme runs throughout the program, with speeches from government officials, recognition of local veterans’ organizations, entertainment and children’s activities. Following the program, guests are treated to a complimentary lunch on the Gleaner grounds. This event is open to the public. An at-will donation will be collected to support the Michigan Wounded and Returning Warrior Program.
NEW THIS YEAR: We are teaming with the Red Cross to host a blood drive in the family room from 11:30 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. PLEASE JOIN US AS WE STRIVE TO COLLECT 30 PINTS TO CELEBRATE 30 YEARS OF FLAG DAY! For an appointment, visit redcrossblood.org (enter sponsor code: GLEANER) or call 1.800.REDCROSS