Dec2016

Vol. 120, No. 3

INSIDE Grand President Buddy Preuss shares his holiday message ➤ ➤ Pg. 2

December 2016

Making a Difference

Applications now being accepted for Board of Directors ➤ ➤ Pg. 4

Schedule listed for officer installations coming in January ➤ ➤ Pg. 6

hermannsonslife.org

Lodges across the state observed Make a Difference Day in October. Pershing Lodge, above, collected teddy bears and donated them to the San Antonio Police Department. MissionAlamo Lodge, left, collected dog and cat food and donated it to the Meals on Wheels program. Look for lots of other Make a Difference Day photos throughout this edition.

Page 2 – Hermann Sons Life – December 2016 USPS 242200 Periodicals Postage Paid at San Antonio, Texas Published Monthly by ORDER OF THE SONS OF HERMANN

515 S. St. Mary’s St. San Antonio, Texas 78205 POSTMASTER:

Send address changes to: Hermann Sons Life P.O. Box 1941 San Antonio, TX 78297-1941 HOME OFFICE:

515 S. St. Mary’s Street P.O. Box 1941 San Antonio, Texas 78297-1941 210-226-9261 or 1-800-234-4124 Fax: 210-226-3055 Hermann Sons Life-Camp 830-995-3223 GRAND LODGE OFFICERS PAST GRAND PRESIDENT

Leroy Muehlstein PAST GRAND PRESIDENT

Stephen R. Prewitt GRAND PRESIDENT/CEO

Allan W. “Buddy” Preuss GRAND VP-SECRETARY/TREASURER

Mary Beam GRAND VP-INVESTMENTS

Harry Werland GRAND VP-MARKETING

Timothy P. Kolbe GRAND VP-FRATERNAL

Kimberly A. Krueger GRAND FINANCE COMMITTEE

Wilburn Pargmann Sandra Jones Janice Kuhen Paul Heath Jack Larned RETIREMENT HOME COMMITTEE

Ruth Bailey Frank Brandon Norma Bruns Jean Dueitt Calvin Lamensky

GRAND PHYSICIAN

Dr. Richard Hannigan

YOUTH ACTIVITIES COMMITTEE

Janice Fait Tammy Kelley Amanda Deicke Bob Jungman Stan Steiger

Debbie Jordan Ed Kurtz Grand Guide Grand Inner Guard Grand Outer Guard

LAWS COMMITTEE Glenn Altwein David Lewis Donnie Blinka James Lowak Glenford Boehme Jeanette Preuss John Bradley Calvin Rueter Agnes Dreibrodt Howard Saathoff Lillian Franckowiak Tim Salge Debbie Gold Don Saunders Karen Harborth Andy Schellenberg Robert Herridge Irene Schwertner Milton Ihlo Joe Trojacek Jerry Don Klose Lee Vogel Oscar Kuehner Ronald Wiatrek Billy Lehde

President’s Message Forward looking while standing on tradition I love Christmas. It’s the most wonderful time when just a sight or smell can bring back a flood of memories.

Tradition is the reason - those familiar ties to family and life’s best memories. Tradition is made up of our rituals and beliefs. Tradition makes us feel safe and comfortable and brings us joy.

We have many Christmas traditions in the Preuss home. This season my wife, Elizabeth, and I will sit down to watch our favorite Christmas shows – “It’s a Wonderful Life” and “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” (the animated version, of course); Mom knows to make molasses cookies; and on St. Nick Day the stockings will be hung.

But this year some things will be different. Our children have children and inlaws and obligations of their

own. So our Christmas morning celebration will now be a Christmas Eve morning celebration. At first I was disappointed with the change, but I quickly turned to thoughts of how this change in tradition is because of growth in our family and this is a chance to make even stronger connections and memories. I am so happy to see my children carrying on some of our old Christmas traditions in their families while at the

same time starting their own.

In our Hermann Sons family, a lot of work has been done over the last couple of years on image, engagement and governance to lay the framework for growth.

The work has culminated in much of the information we’ve been sharing in recent months. Getting to this point has meant looking at some traditions in different ways because our organization, like all of our families, has been changing through the years.

And how we adapt to those changes will foreshadow our future successes. At Hermann Sons Life, one of the best parts of looking forward is that we have such rich history and tradition to stand on.

All year and especially during this time of year,

I’m thankful for all of our members. From our founders who had the vision to come together to the members through the decades who have created traditions, passed them on and adapted them to the changing world.

I’m proud to be part of a community that has so many dedicated individuals who’ve made this organization great and who are looking at how we can gain membership so that we will thrive and be able to pass on traditions for generations to come.

May the good times and treasures of the present become the golden memories of tomorrow.

Elizabeth and I wish you lots of love, joy and happiness; and a merry and blessed Christmas.

– Buddy Preuss Grand President/CEO

Christmas ‘Hugs’ mailed to military personnel SAN ANTONIO – The Home Office recently mailed 200 “Hugs from Home” boxes to military personnel serving overseas.

The boxes were mailed in time to be delivered before Christmas.

More donations have been made to the “Hugs from Home” program.

Among the latest contributors were Manchaca Lodge,

Wayne and Janilla Kilborn, John and Helen Widner, Retirement Home residents, McGregor Lodge and Hondo Victory Lodge.

If you know someone serving overseas and would like for them to receive a package, fill out the form below and mail it to the Home Office.

If you would like to make a donation, mail it to the same address.

“Hugs from Home”

Give us the name and address of someone who is serving overseas and we will add them to our “Hugs from Home” list of care package recipients.

Name _________________________________________________________ Address Line 1 __________________________________________________ Address Line 2 __________________________________________________ Address Line 3 __________________________________________________ Dates of Deployment ____________________________________________ Cip and mail to: Hermann Sons Life P.O. Box 1941 San Antonio, TX 78297-1941 Attention: Laura Adams

Laura Adams, left, and Tammi Sutherland pack “Hugs from Home” boxes in the basement of the Home Office. The 200 boxes were mailed in time for Christmas delivery.

December 2016 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 3

Official Bulletin - Grand Vice President-Secretary/Treasurer

Lodges making a difference in their communities November offers us days to give thanks for our many blessings - family, good health, special friends and many lasting memories. A kind word, smile or hug can be uplifting. Share some of life’s simplest pleasures with those who are close to your heart.

MAKE A DIFFERENCE DAY Community activities abounded on Oct. 22. Lodges inspire and focus on meaningful community service; they engage and step forward to help when and where needed. You will see many lodges pictured throughout this issue strengthening the bonds of friendship while helping others.

This time of the year many lodges honor members and non-members with the Humanitarian of the Year Award. Congratulations to the 2016 Humanitarians who give so much to their communities and lodges.

INSTALLATION CEREMONIES Lodge officer installation information is included in this issue of the newspaper. All elected and appointed local lodge officers are asked to attend the January installation ceremony in their area. Any change to the installation schedule should be reported to the

Home Office so information can be reported correctly. Installations can be a valuable time to meet other officers, exchange ideas and learn about other lodges’ successes. It also is an opportune time to have any questions answered concerning your lodge and the upcoming Grand Lodge Convention in May. FORMS DUE Several forms are due soon including the 2016 meeting date list and the 2017 officer listing. Lodges, as outlined at the Leadership Summits, may combine the offices of Finance Committee member and trustee into three offices instead of six and refer to them as financial trustees.

The new positions of membership, communications, community and youth coordinator will take the place of the guide, inner guard and outer guard. Additional officers may be appointed as needed, such as a parliamentarian or chaplain.

Please remember that the lodge delegate election must be held during the November or December meeting. As soon as delegates are elected, please forward the proper form to the Home Office.

MEETINGS Both the Retirement Home and Youth Activities Committee members met recently at the Home Office. The main item on the agenda was to begin the process of writing the report on activities and happenings of the past four years for the Grand Lodge Convention Book of Reports.

The Grand Committee met for its quarterly meeting in October. Discussions centered on the 2017 Home Office budget, Grand Lodge Convention business and governance changes. The minutes are printed in this issue of the paper.

CHRISTMAS PARTIES Many lodge Christmas parties are being planned. If you would like to have officer representation, please send an e-mail, letter or call the Grand President/ CEO’s office soon. The first two weekends in December are usually the busiest time for Christmas parties.

Fraternally, Mary Beam Grand Vice President-Secretary/Treasurer

Events December 15 – Marion Lodge will hold its Christmas party 6:30 p.m. at Immaculate Conception Church Hall 3 – Bexar Lodge will host a Christmas party and at in Marion. The Humanitarian Award will be present100th Anniversary Celebration at the Paul Vogt Lodge Hall on Dietz-Elkhorn Road. The event begins at 4 p.m. A catered meal will be served. Games will be played and there will be crafts for the children. A prize drawing also will be held. Call Linda Wehmeyer at 210-590-1499 or Joan Crider at 210-653-5479 to make a reservation.

4–

The Goodtime Polka and Waltz Club will host a dance at Eagles Hall, 257 E. South St., New Braunfels, from 3-7 p.m. Music by the Travelers Orchestra from Columbus. Call 830-620-6787 or 830-660-0437 or 830-660-4866 for more information. Memberships are available at the sign-in table. Guests welcome. No shorts please.

13 –

Cameron Lodge will hold its Christmas party beginning at 6:30 p.m. at Bea’s Kitchen. A catered meal will be served. Reservations need to be made no later than Dec. 5 by calling David Ehler at 512-446-1087 or Carolyn Taylor at 512-446-3896. Those attending are asked to bring non-perishable food items for donation to a charity to be chosen at the party.

ed and the election of officers and delegates to the Grand Lodge Convention will be held. A catered meal will be served. Reservations are required and can be made by calling Lorene Bielke at 830-420-2380 or Bobbie Ray at 210-260-9977.

18 – Dallas Lodge will host its Christmas luncheon at 1 p.m. at Babb Brothers BBQ, 3015 Gulden Lane, Suite 105, Dallas. Members and their guests are welcome to attend. Those receiving their 50-year membership pins in 2016 will be recognized. Call Steve Schellenberg at 972-790-5014 to make a reservation.

FebrUArY 25 – Comfort Lodge will host a golf tournament to benefit the first Grief Support Session at Camp next summer. The tournament will be played at Buckhorn Golf Course in Comfort. Cost to play is $70 per person or $280 for a team. For more information, contact Jennifer Cernosek at jenniferc@hermannsonslife.org

If you would like to see your lodge’s event listed here and in the Events section of the Hermann Sons Life website, call Kathie Ninneman, 210-226-9261, ext. 273, or 1-800-234-4124, ext. 273, or email the information to kathien@hermannsonslife.org.

editor/communications Director Kathie Ninneman 210-226-9261, ext. 273 email: kathien@hermannsonslife.org Assistant editor/Assistant communications Director elaine Soto 210-226-9261, ext. 279 email: elaines@hermannsonslife.org Fax: 1-888-443-3377 or 210-892-0252 Website: www.hermannsonslife.org All news articles and photographs should be mailed to the Editor, Hermann Sons Life, P.O. Box 1941, San Antonio, TX 78297-1941, or emailed to kathien@hermannsonslife.org. Deadline for each monthly issue is the 10th of the month of publication.

The Hermann Sons Life newspaper is an official publication of the Order of the Sons of Hermann in the State of Texas. The management and editorial policy of the newspaper shall be in the hands of the Grand President, and the Grand President shall have the authority to appoint a member or members of Hermann Sons as editor and/or business manager thereof (Art. 38, Grand Lodge Laws).

Page 4 – Hermann Sons Life – December 2016

Applications for board of directors being accepted

SAN ANTONIO – Applications are now being accepted for candidates for the Hermann Sons Life Board of Directors .

Directors support Hermann Sons Life by providing missionbased leadership, strategic governance and organizational and fiduciary oversight .

If approved by Convention delegates, six directors will be elected to a four-year term at the 47th Grand Lodge Convention, May 1-3, 2017, in San Marcos . The board will traditionally meet four times annually for two full weekdays and perform other assigned duties requiring travel .

The minimum requirements

for nomination are: • Hermann Sons membership for at least three years as of May 1, 2017 • In good standing with premiums and local lodge dues paid current • Possess and prove at least three of the following core competencies - Business Judgement - Vision - Strategic insight - Management skills - Leadership - Industry knowledge - Financial literacy - Financial accounting skills - Professional communication skills

- Ability to navigate current technology Core competency definitions can be viewed on the online application.

• 18 years of age or older • Pass required Texas Department of Insurance background checks Candidates should also have: • The ability to fulfill the responsibilities described in the Board of Directors job description The job description can be viewed on the online application.

• A commitment to and understanding of Hermann Sons Life, its members and the fra-

ternal system, preferably based on experience • Personal qualities of integrity, credibility and a passion for improving the lives of members • Extensive professional experience with significant executive leadership accomplishments in business, government or the nonprofit sector • The desire and energy to actively participate in and contribute to meetings and other assignments .

Any Hermann Sons Life member who meets the minimum requirements is eligible to submit an application for the Board of Directors .

To complete an application visit the website at www.hermannsonslife.org and click on Contact Us . The deadline for application submittal is midnight on Jan . 31, 2017 .

This call for board candidates is made possible by recent governance changes and proposed changes to the Charter and Laws .

Questions and requests for additional information should be directed to Vice PresidentSecretary/Treasurer Mary Beam who is the candidate liaison . She can be reached at the Hermann Sons Life Home Office at 210-226-9261, ext . 232, or 800-234-4124, ext . 232 .

Inside Lodge Reports Anton Wenzel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Austin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Bandera County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Bexar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Boerne . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Brenham . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Castroville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Cat Spring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Cibolo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Columbia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Columbus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Comfort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Converse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Corpus Christi . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Coupland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Cuero Family . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 DaCosta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Dallas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Deanville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Edelweiss-Magnolia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 El Campo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Ellinger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Flatonia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Fort Worth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Fredericksburg . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Gay Hill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Giddings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Gulf . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Hallettsville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Harmonia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Highland Lakes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Hochheim-Prairie . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Hondo Victory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Houston . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Karnes City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Kerrville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Kirby . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 La Coste . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 La Grange . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Laubach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Lockhart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Louise Schuetze . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Maxwell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 McGregor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Mission-Alamo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Moulton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Nagel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Needville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 New Braunfels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Niederwald . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Old Glory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Paige . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Paul Vogt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Pershing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Plum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Poth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Prinz Solms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Richland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Rosenberg-Richmond . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Round Top . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Rutersville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 San Marcos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Schulenburg . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Schwertner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Seguin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Shelby . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 Stern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Twin Sisters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Vineta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Washington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Zuehl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

Monthly Features 2 3 3 7-8 10-11 10 11 12-13

Grand President’s Message Calendar of Events Grand Vice President-Secretary/Treasurer’s Bulletin Pioneer Members Medical Notes Memorial Donations In Memoriam of Our Deceased Members Retirement Home News

1 2 4 6 6 9-10 13

Lodges observe Make a Difference Day Christmas ‘Hugs’ mailed to military personnel Applications being accepted for Board of Directors Participants sought for focus groups Installation of officers schedule Grand Committee Meeting Minutes Retirement Home Christmas Fund

5-6 5 5 35

Policy riders explained 100% Families TOP Recommenders Listing of agents

18 36

Answers to puzzles on Pg . 36 Shining Stars

New This Month

Marketing News

Youth in Action

December 2016 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 5

Marketing Continue the Tradition

Protect the Ones You Love♥

The Team of Outstanding Prospectors Campaign recognized 34 more TOP Recommenders for the month of October 2016.

This brings the total to 544 members recommending 705 new members to Hermann Sons Life this year.

Congratulations to the following October recommenders: Recommender

Agent

Evelyn Joyce Brunet, Comfort Lodge Norma Bruns Patricia F. Bushman, Houston Lodge Gary Falkenberg Erik A. Campos, Fredericksburg Lodge (*) Dennis Henke Mark Davis Clayton, New Braunfels Lodge Gerald Ziemnicki Cindy K. Davis, Fort Worth Lodge Sandra Jones Ashley D. Decock, Macdona Lodge Eulla May Krueger Belle Anissa Delarosa, Giddings Lodge Loretta Chilek Marie E. Dorrell, Anton Wenzel Lodge Emma Moya Lorene A. Fishbeck, Moulton Lodge Judy Schulmeier Lawrence H. Forster, Prinz Solms Lodge Clifton Klabunde Sandra Gauthier, Louise Schuetze Lodge (*) Ruth Bailey Kimberly C. Hanson, Biry Lodge Eulla May Krueger Hattie Lysette Harmon, Giddings Lodge Loretta Chilek Ashley A. Hernandez, Comfort Lodge (*) Norma Bruns Elizabeth Hohenberger, Comfort Lodge Todd Bierschwale Ty Walter Kasper, Giddings Lodge Loretta Chilek Brady R. King, McGregor Lodge Brad Klein Marvin L. Klaus, Siemering Lodge Dan Boenig Roy Lee Kneupper, Comfort Lodge Norma Bruns Bristol Kraemer, Boerne Lodge Marilyn Vogt Jack O. Larned Jr., Mission-Alamo Lodge Carol Krauss Glenda S. Luedeker, Shelby Lodge (*) Gary Falkenberg Brandi Rae Millsap, Prinz Solms Lodge Sandra Duncan Noel Marie Naizer, Schwertner Lodge Irene Schwertner David Ray Noak Sr., Rutersville Lodge Linda Mattocks Sherry Noak, Rutersville Lodge (*) Linda Mattocks Randolph Pfullmann, Jourdanton Lodge Eulla May Krueger Mary Louise Posey, Helotes Lodge Greg Sterner Evelyn J. Smith, Vineta Lodge Pamela Poulk Maryanne Stephens, Castroville Lodge Eulla May Krueger Lyndsey J. Symank, McGregor Lodge Brad Klein Kaecen James Uhl, Prinz Solms Lodge Pamela Poulk Jo Ann Wolf, Wichita Falls Lodge David Wolf Howard Otis Woller, Siemering Lodge Ruth Bailey (*) Recommended 2 new members

Your agents thank you for your recommendations.

Have you recommended a new member recently?

There’s still time to recommend a new member and be entered in the drawing for one of five $100 gift cards to be given away in January.

Go to hermannsonslife.org and click on Recommend a Member!

Hermann Sons welcomes our new 100% Families!

100% Family Krueger Family Larry Virginia

City Georgetown

Lodge Schwertner Lodge

Agent Irene Schwertner

100% Family

City

Lodge

Agent

Faulkenberg Family Seagoville Michael Beverly

Columbia Lodge

Sandra Jones

100% Family Rankin Family Jerry Belinda

Lodge Converse Lodge

Agent Teresa Saathoff

City Universal City

A few words about policy riders

By TIM KOLBE Grand VIce PresidentMarketing By the time you read this, Thanksgiving will be a recent memory. The cookbook for Thanksgiving leftovers is still open on the counter. How many ways can you prepare leftover turkey and still make it look good?

Recently, my daughter and I were buying a tool set for her car. Yes, you read it correctly; my 21-year-old daughter wanted a tool set. She changes her own oil too, but I digress.

None of the sets we looked at seemed to be a good choice, so we freelanced and chose separate tools to make our own set - one best suited for her car. That gave me an idea about how life insurance can be best suited for a person’s individual needs. Please read on….

Why you may need a policy rider Buying an insurance policy is in some ways like buying a tool set. The tools in the set are designed to perform specific jobs when you need them to get the task done. If the tool set is lacking a variety of tools,

then the jobs it can accomplish are limited. You wouldn’t want to try to hammer in nails with a set of pliers, when a hammer is what you really need. By the way, it doesn’t work very well.

When purchasing a life insurance policy, one must look at not only the need, but what type of product fits that need best and what functions the product offers to accomplish the task at hand. Insurance companies offer base policies and additional riders or features that meet a client’s specific situation. Riders to a base policy are like extra tools in the tool set. Most insurers include rider packages in their offerings that allow policyholders to tailor their insurance protection to provide more functionality. We are no different, so let’s explore the policy riders we offer.

The Insurance Protection Rider (IPR) - This rider allows the purchase of additional insurance later in life without requiring proof of insurability.

This important policy option guarantees the policyholder the right to purchase additional coverage up to six times between the ages of 25 and 40. It

is available on our Annual Flex Life and 20-Year Pay plans, and must be purchased at the time of application. The minimal cost of the rider is greatly offset by the option to purchase additional coverage, even if you develop some serious medical issue that would otherwise make you uninsurable.

A few years back, I had a client who purchased a whole life product for one of two sons. I offered the IPR Rider, but because the older son did not have it, the client and mother of the boys did not elect to take the rider. A few years later, the older son developed muscular dystrophy, a progressive, incurable condition. What the young man had in insurance protection is most likely the only cost-effective life insurance protection he will ever have. This is one of the best rider options for a base policy.

Accidental Death Benefit Rider (ADB) – This rider provides a death benefit of twice the face value of a policy if death is caused by an accident ($250,000 maximum for all coverage). Anyone who drives, See RIDERS, Pg. 6

Page 6 – Hermann Sons Life – December 2016

Riders can be valuable tools Cont’d. from Pg. 5 uses commercial air travel or engages in a hazardous occupation should consider the ADB Rider. Additionally, accidents are the leading cause of death for children in the U.S., so this is a rider that should be seriously considered when purchasing future insurance protection for a child. This rider can be purchased at the time of application or added after age 5 and is payable until age 70. The ADB Rider is available on most plans (expect single premium products) and can help offset significant medical expenses incurred prior to the death of the insured.

Waiver of Premium rider (WP) - This rider provides for the waiver of the policy premium if the payor of the policy becomes disabled (total and permanent) or dies while the rider period is in force, which is up to age 60 for the payor or the attained age of 25 of the insured, whichever comes first. It must be purchased at the time of application. Life is full of unexpected events and the consequences that may result. Who will pay the premiums if the policy payor dies or becomes permanently disabled? An extra level of future financial protection for your loved ones is provided by this rider.

Your agent has additional information and provisions for each of these riders and how they can provide that extra level of protection for your insurance policy. Don’t be caught without the right tools in your tool kit. Call us today and find out more at 800-234-4124.

We want to hear from you!

The Home Office is looking for members interested in participating in focus groups about lodge engagement.

We are looking for people who will offer diverse perspectives across generations.

Participants need to be willing to volunteer time and travel to San Antonio or Austin for meetings and activities lasting up to three hours. Participants must have attended at least three lodge meetings during their lifetime and have the desire to express their interests.

Information gathered during these focus group sessions will be shared with lodge leaders. if you are interested, email jenniferc@hermannsonslife.org or call 210-226-9261, ext. 236.

2017 installation of officers schedule District(s) 1 &2 3&4 5 8 9 10 & 11 12 13 14 15 & 16 17 20 21 & 22 23 25 & 26 28 & 29 30 31 & 32 33 34, 35 & 37 38

Date saturday, Jan. 28 sunday, Jan. 8 saturday, Jan. 14 sunday, Jan. 8 sunday, Jan. 15 sunday, Jan. 8 sunday, Jan. 22 sunday, Jan. 8 saturday, Jan. 14 sunday, Jan. 15 sunday, Jan. 22 saturday, Jan. 21 sunday, Jan. 15 sunday, Jan. 22 saturday, Jan. 21 saturday, Jan. 14 sunday, Jan. 15 sunday, Jan. 15 sunday, Jan. 15 sunday, Jan. 8 sunday, Jan. 22

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1 p.m.

12 noon

Place san antonio Home association Building la Vernia lodge Hall southern charm restaurant rosenberg civic center santi’s Diner (old american legion Hall) turner Hall maxwell social club twin sisters school House seguin lodge Hall taylor Knights of columbus giddings lodge Hall the main Place Hermann sons life-camp (Hilltop) Hondo lodge Hall la Quinta inn, catclaw Dr., abilene Dallas lodge Hall ellinger chamber of commerce Hall st. roch’s Hall gay Hill lodge Hall sokol Hall tyler

Host loDge(s) lone oak & converse la Vernia corpus rosenberg-richmond cuero Hochheim-Prairie Niederwald twin sisters laubach New Bern giddings mcgregor comfort Hondo old glory Dallas ellinger Bernardo gay Hill Houston Dogwood trail

75 Years William b. gandin Houston Lodge Helen e. bloxom Louise Schuetze Lodge

70 Years

Pioneers a. Heselmeyer jr.

New Bern Lodge

layton e. samPle Cuero Family Lodge

annabelle Paladino Richland Lodge

kenton a. PeHl Fredericksburg Lodge

ronald duane ziPP New Braunfels Lodge

micHael c. baumann Paul W. riefler jr.

Dallas Lodge

jimmie dale mertz Round Top Lodge

nancy gardner brooks General Bee Lodge

roy a. letz Old Glory Lodge

William j. scHWeers Dunlay Lodge

medora H. blucHer Poth Lodge

earnest j. crabtree Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge

cHarles r. broWnrigg Herman j. broWnrigg daniel r. redman Rowena Lodge Anton Wenzel Lodge sHaron jenke foss Brunhilde Lodge

P.j. scHmeltekoPf San Marcos Lodge

joHn martin sodolak Bryan Lodge

William curtis frymire clarence e. scHuetze Schwertner Lodge

gus eHlers iii Comfort Lodge Wilburn m. kruse Coupland Lodge james g. Hunnam Cuero Family Lodge mary c. cabezas carolyn sue millard Dallas Lodge rosie lee kubin Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge jenelle oeltjendiers Ellinger Lodge roland bauman roberta Herbst orta Fredericksburg Lodge jean ellen micek judy e. sammons La Vernia Lodge betty e. Parker Louise Schuetze Lodge

December 2016 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 7

myrtle voss Seguin Lodge caroline m. blain carol a. scHroller Yorktown Lodge

melvin f.

Winkelmann jr. g.W. Winkelmann Gay Hill Lodge micHael brion dial Harmonia Lodge gary g. daWson Hondo Lodge george t. turner Houston Lodge robert l. busselman clarence o. Haveman Karnes City Lodge

60 Years

alice faye guinn Lockhart Lodge

Harry r. sPaHn stePHan r. Wagner Anton Wenzel Lodge

ronald c. gerfers Mission-Alamo Lodge

linda m. gonzalez Austin Lodge

sHeryl a. carnes anna marie koeHn New Bielau Lodge

dorotHy a. WiesePaPe Brenham Lodge

gayle d. stroH New Braunfels Lodge

loretta t. bergstrom Brunhilde Lodge

joy lynn garcia Nordheim Lodge

ann marie brockWay boyd W. cook Comfort Lodge

loretta l. stecH Orange Grove Lodge

ida betH blankensHiP dalton r. borcHardt debra fay vadell gallemore alan ray koemel Corpus Christi Lodge

marcus r. loWtHorP Pershing Lodge reba gail b. Hoese jessie l. Polasek Poth Lodge

Willy f. boHlmann jr.

Schulenburg Lodge stePHen a. bauer Seguin Lodge linda WiesePaPe Shelby Lodge oscar l. kloesel Shiner Lodge

50 Years malcolm W. reus Anton Wenzel Lodge kimberly j. dear Austin Lodge kyle alden Picone Brenham Lodge yvette ann mccoy stacey eugene stork Cameron Lodge

deboraH ann zella Gonzales Lodge joel marvin jaeger Gruenau Lodge William W. albert Houston Lodge cyndy robinson davis sandra k. jendruscH annette l. kent susan lyndal long georgia ann martin jamie yvette mcPHail cHeryl k. neisWender Polly j. seale kimera kay sHePler janet lee smolik nancy tom Karnes City Lodge joHn david edmonds Kerrville Lodge arline m. landers Kirby Lodge

clifford dean sHePHerd beverly m. trinkle Cibolo Lodge

sara jo ramos mary faye talley Laubach Lodge

mark eugene moren james c. overstreet Comfort Lodge

glenn daniel Pitts La Vernia Lodge

bridget marie aHr Walter W. Presley Corpus Christi Lodge Patricia kay Hollimen Cuero Family Lodge Pamela sue foHn adelina micHelle martinez DaCosta Lodge lonnie Wayne suPak Deanville Lodge rebel daWn fendley Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge dean c. stavinoHa Flatonia Lodge

james m. Pederson Lone Oak Lodge donna gale englisH Louise Schuetze Lodge josePH m. gregory Needville Lodge frances k. Herry New Braunfels Lodge kennetH lee gest Niederwald Lodge robert l. keller jr.

Paul Vogt Lodge continued on Pg. 8

Page 8 – Hermann Sons Life –December 2016

Pioneers

COnTInUED frOm Pg. 7 mary ann anDErsOn PErry Dan barTh CraIg s. ChrIsTOPhEr DavID waynE rEEs kEnnETh TErral kEnnETh lEE TErral ChrIsTOPhEr E. zOCh Pershing Lodge sTEPhanIE l. maTTEs DOrOThy PUnDT DavID f. rIChTEr larry nEIll smITh Poth Lodge gEnEll rOhDE Round Top Lodge

Arlene Johnson of Euless has received her 70-year membership pin. Sister Johnson is a member of Louise Schuetze Lodge. She joined on March 13, 1946.

Joan Kessinger of Fort Worth has received her 60-year membership pin. Sister Kessinger, a member of Louise Schuetze Lodge, joined on March 15, 1956.

Patricia H.N. Fey of Louiseville, Ky., has received her 60-year membership pin. Sister Fey, a member of Ellinger Lodge, joined on May 28, 1955.

Mary Knippa Spreen of San Antonio has received her 60year membership pin. Sister Spreen is a member of Vineta Lodge. She joined on April 5, 1956.

Cleo Singleton of San Antonio has received her 60-year membership pin. Sister Singleton is a member of Louise Schuetze Lodge. She joined on May, 14, 1956.

Laverne “Dolly” Schwenke Brown of Silver City, N.M., has received her 60-year membership pin. Sister Brown, a member of Corpus Christi Lodge, joined on Aug. 15, 1956.

Joan Jupe Dupnick of Spring has received her 60-year membership pin. Sister Dupnick is a member of Louise Schuetze Lodge. She has been a member since Oct. 4, 1956.

Nancy St. Peter of Del Rio has received her 60-year membership pin. Sister St. Peter is a member of Comfort Lodge.

She joined on Nov. 1, 1956.

Julia Erlund of Morrison, Colo., has received her 60-year membership pin. Sister Erlund is a member of Comfort Lodge.

She joined on Nov. 2, 1956.

Patrick Bendele has received his 60-year membership pin.

Brother Bendele, who lives in Sapulpa, Okla., is a member of Hondo Lodge. He has been a member since Nov. 5, 1956.

Frieda Pressler has received her 60-year membership pin. Sister Pressler, who lives in Comfort, is a member of Comfort Lodge.

She has been a member since Nov. 7, 1956.

Clifford Newman of San Antonio has received his 60-year membership pin. Brother Newman is a member of Harmonia Lodge. He joined Nov. 8, 1956.

CarOl b. rybarskI lOrETTa g. sanDErs San Marcos Lodge mary ann mUras Schulenburg Lodge annE ElIzabETh sanDErfOrD Schwertner Lodge rObErT D. allEn jr.

C.m. EnglIsh jr. rObErT E. mcCUllEn TImOThy E. mcCUllEn Siemering Lodge kEITh ray EIsmann Spring Branch Lodge nOrma gaIl sTraIT Stern Lodge rOsEannE b. fOlEy EThEl maE mcCUllEn gaIl r. mcCUllEn jUlIE lynn wEDEl vIrgInIa wUrz Vineta Lodge janalynn bOyD lOvEly Waco-Robinson Lodge larry jamEs bUEsIng Weesatche Lodge ChrIsTInE lynn garDnEr jOsEPhInE a. grIffIn TrECa rEnEE nOvak Yorktown Lodge

December 2016 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 9

Grand Committee Meeting Minutes - Oct. 24, 2016 Grand President/CEO Allan Preuss called the Grand Committee meeting to order on Monday, Oct. 24, at 9 a.m.

Committee members present were as follows: Past Grand President Leroy Muehlstein Past Grand President Stephen R. Prewitt Grand President/CEO Allan Preuss Grand Vice President-Secretary/Treasurer Mary Beam Grand Vice President-Investments Harry Werland Grand Vice President-Fraternal Kim Krueger Grand Finance Committee Member Wilburn Pargmann Grand Finance Committee Member Sandra Jones Grand Finance Committee Member Janice Kuhen Grand Finance Committee Member Paul Heath Grand Finance Committee Member Jack Larned Grand Vice President Kolbe was unable to attend the meeting due to a prior commitment.

A motion was made by Past Grand President Leroy Muehlstein to dispense with the reading of the minutes of the July 28, 2016, meeting and accept them as presented. Past Grand President Stephen R. Prewitt seconded the motion. Motion carried.

Grand President Preuss gave his report. He spoke on the Leadership Summits being held across the state and reviewed the surveys the attendees had filled out. Those lodges that were not represented at one of the summits will be mailed the information and a synopsis of the seminar.

The new website and the new format of the newspaper will launch the first part of November. Grand President Preuss showed members the front page of the new issue of Hermann Sons Life. The focus for Marketing and our advertising will be on life insurance and community service.

The newspaper will include an article explaining the call for candidates for our Board of Directors.

More education on the upcoming changes and happenings will be given at installations. Only one Grand Lodge representative will be assigned to each installation in 2017. The installation chairman will assist. Dates and assignments for committee members were announced.

A professional development day is planned for Home Office staff members on Dec. 9 and will include information on updates and changes.

Grand President Preuss also presented an outline draft on the Report of the Grand Committee that will be presented at the 47th Grand Lodge Convention.

He mentioned the deadline for submitting reports for the Convention Book will be Jan. 26, 2017.

The Grand Lodge Charter and Laws were reviewed with recommended changes from the Grand Lodge Laws Committee and General Counsel Don Saunders. A motion was made by Grand Finance Committee Member Janice Kuhen to approve the recommended changes to the Charter and Laws of the Grand Lodge of the Order of the Sons of Hermann in the State of Texas presented by the Grand Lodge Laws Committee and General Counsel Don Saun-

ders. Grand Finance Committee Member Wilburn Pargmann seconded the motion. Motion carried.

Convention delegates will receive the Laws changes for review along with a detailed synopsis for clarification.

The process of election to the Board of Directors at the Grand Lodge Convention and the procedure of how the Chairman of the Board will be elected were reviewed.

Grand President Preuss spoke on a meeting with General Counsel Don Saunders concerning the recent paperwork sent to the Texas Department of Insurance on our assumed name.

Grand President Preuss gave highlights of the American Fraternal Alliance annual meeting in Nashville. He remarked that it was a good conference with many good sessions on subjects such of branding, diversity, convention planning and legislative updates.

He also spoke on our upcoming Grand Lodge Convention and discussed the agenda, governance changes and election procedures.

Grand Vice President-Investments Harry Werland gave an update on the Enterprise Risk Management project. Committee members have ranked concerns to be addressed and will continue to monitor risk priorities.

The meeting recessed at 12 noon for lunch.

The meeting was called to order again at 12:50 p.m.

Discussion followed on the Grand Lodge Convention registration fee for delegates and guests. Several recommendations were suggested to help defray convention expenses. Grand Finance Committee Member Pargmann made a motion that the 2017 Grand Lodge Convention fee be $50 for delegates and $100 for guests. The mileage rate of 49.5 cents per mile will be paid to each delegate from his/her lodge destination to and from San Marcos. Grand Finance Committee Member Paul Heath seconded the motion.

Discussion followed on check processing and distribution and giving delegates the opportunity to donate all or part of their convention reimbursement to our new focused cause of grief support services.

An amended motion was made by Grand Finance Committee Member Pargmann to add to the above motion that reimbursement checks could be optional and delegates may donate all or part of their convention reimbursement to our new focused service cause of grief support services. Grand Finance Committee Member Heath seconded the motion and the motion carried.

Financial Controller Mary Pruitt was asked into the meeting.

Grand President Preuss addressed budget items for the next year that include Board expenses under the new governance structure, website development, a new policy administration system, engagement initiatives, Home Office improvements and local lodge signage, the American Fraternal Alliance

and Communications technology. He spoke on proposed 2018 and 2019 budget items.

Grand Vice President-Secretary/Treasurer Mary Beam gave her report. She noted that the local lodge 2016 subsidies had been sent to local lodges in midSeptember. Lodges are now asked to submit a report that explains how the money was used to increase membership and lodge engagement.

It was mentioned that the Local Lodge Bylaws Committee held a meeting on Sept. 21 to review the current local lodge bylaws, suggest changes and restructure some of the articles for better clarity.

The Organization Board met on Oct. 4 and determined the number of delegates eligible to attend the 47th Grand Lodge Convention in May 2017.

Grand Vice President Beam mentioned that she and Grand Vice President-Fraternal Kim Krueger had visited the convention site in San Marcos on Oct. 5 and are working with the hotel on the agenda, programs and entertainment for the event. There will be several new formats to include a first-timer orientation, informal coffee gatherings after breakfast with discussion on educational topics and redirection of committee meetings. Other possible agenda additions and events were discussed and will be further studied.

She mentioned that the automated phone system at the Home Office is working well and flu shots will be offered to Home Office employees. The budget for 2017 remains consistent. Annuity deaths and withdrawals will increase due to the age of annuitants and the large amounts of annuities. The employee group premiums will increase requiring an additional adjustment and the IT budget remains consistent to last year’s figures.

Grand Vice President Krueger told members she met with the Children’s Bereavement Center to learn more about their work with children who have lost family members. She indicated that the center offered the use of its therapists for the Grief Support Session at Camp scheduled next summer.

She spoke more on the focused service cause for lodges and upcoming events that will benefit the new community service project.

The Schools of Dance and Camp programs were discussed as to the expenses entailed. Suggestions were made to help make the programs more viable and cost effective for the Home Office. The Retirement Home also was discussed in regards to finding better and new ways to aid in the financial upkeep of the Home.

Budget items for fraternal include a line item for grief support services, Camp and Retirement Home upkeep and maintenance, schools of dance and Camp registration fees.

In the absence of Grand Vice President Kolbe, Grand President Preuss gave his report. Production figures were reviewed along with the announcement of six See GRAND, Pg. 10

Page 10 – Hermann Sons Life – December 2016

Grand Committee Meeting Minutes - Oct. 24, 2016

Cont’d. from Pg. 9 new agents. Fifty-eight agents attended the Continuing Education Seminar held at Camp in October. The membership campaign continues until the end of the year and lodges that have reached their goal will be recognized in January 2017. Five winners will be drawn in January 2017 for top recommender recognition. Some magazine ads will continue in 2017 and mail-outs to target audiences are planned in the upcoming months. Digital markets are being discussed along with a plan to upgrade our email administration marketing tool. The budget for 2017 includes an adjustment lowering the amount for advertising in both media and promotional materials with more of a focus on digital media. Other areas for training, sales and lodges remain consistent. Because of the rebranding, the parade float will need some renovation.

Grand Vice President-Investments Werland noted bond purchases were slim because of low interest rates and no mortgage loans were made this past year due to our interest rate of 5.25 percent (banks are offering 3.75 percent). He discussed the Home Office discretionary contribution normally given in February to employees. An interest rate study shows that it is time to lower rates on our annuity and IRA products, as recommended by Actuary Larry Tunnell. He also spoke on the ERM Plan and the assistance from

Parkway Advisors on matters of ERM and governance issues.

Financial Controller Pruitt reviewed the third quarter of 2016. Life insurance premiums and annuity considerations were lower than last year, single premiums from paid-up additions were higher and investment income was somewhat lower. Death benefits and surrenders remained fairly consistent. The balance statement showed that bonds were a little higher; preferred stocks were low due to stock gains and mutual funds increased slightly. Total assets increased as well as reserves. Net income from operations and other line items were addressed.

A motion was made by Grand Vice President Werland that due to projected membership levels, future interest rates affecting the portfolio yield, the final consideration of the net cost of fraternal benefits, the coordination of the development of a three-year budget for strategic planning purposes and the pending technology updates in our insurance operations, the proposed budget is approved for the first quarter of 2017 except that no compensation raises will be granted during the first three months of 2017 or until the budget is approved by the Grand Committee in its regular meeting in January of 2017. This limitation does not apply to the continuing expenses for website development and critical Home or Camp projects which need to be continued or started in the first

Smoking may cause cognitive decline Smokers have scores of reasons to give up the habit. In addition to contributing to cardiovascular disease, lung cancer and other lung ailments, cancers elsewhere in the body, wrinkled skin and diseases of the eyes, nose and mouth, smoking may also contribute to cognitive decline.

There’s growing evidence suggesting that using cigarettes can affect the brain in negative ways, including causing cognitive decline as early as age 45. According to the study “Impact of Smoking on Cognitive Decline in Early Old Age,” led by Severine Sabia, as published in the journal Archives of General Psychiatry, smoking is a possible risk factor for dementia, although the impact smoking has on the brain may have been underestimated in elderly populations because of the general shorter life span of smokers.

Study participants were given

Medical Notes a battery of tests in memory, vocabulary and executive function that included reasoning and fluency, and a global cognitive score. Both men and women participated (5,099 men and 2,137 women, with a mean age of 56), and smoking history was recorded over the 10-year assessment period. An analysis revealed that a cognitive decline occurred in all tests except vocabulary among all participants, but mostly in men. However, faster cognitive decline was observed among current smokers compared with those who had never smoked. The size of the effect associated with smoking was similar to that of 10 years of aging.

Findings are similar to other re-

search being done on the topic of smoking and its impact on the brain. The Alzheimer’s Society states that smoking is bad for the heart, lungs and vascular system — including the blood vessels that feed oxygen and nutrients to the brain. Recent research has shown that smoking is a significant risk factor for vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, with smokers twice as likely to develop the disease as nonsmokers.

The Mayo Clinic defines vascular dementia as problems with reasoning, planning, judgment, memory and other thought processes caused by brain damage from impaired blood flow to the brain. Factors that increase the risk for vascular dementia are high cholesterol and smoking.

Dementia can be brought on by stroke, whether it’s a large stroke or a series of mini-strokes.

See MEDICAL, Pg. 11

quarter of 2017. Grand Finance Committee Member Kuhen seconded the motion. Motion carried.

Upcoming meetings and other events were noted as follows: Nov. 1 Call for applications for Board of Directors Dec. 3 Bexar Lodge centennial and Christmas party Jan. 23-25 Grand Finance Committee meeting, 8:30 a.m.

Jan. 26 Grand Committee Meeting, 8:30 a.m.

Jan. 31 Deadline for application for Board of Directors March 11 Retirement Home Chili Cook-Off March 18 Schwertner Lodge centennial April 29 Grand Committee Meeting, Embassy Suites, 4 p.m.

There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 4:25 p.m. by motion of Past Grand President Muehlstein, seconded by Grand Finance Committee Member Sandra Jones. Motion carried.

Submitted by, Mary Beam Grand Vice President-Secretary/Treasurer ATTEST: Allan W. Preuss

Memorial Donations Donations to the Retirement Home in Memory of: Nora NaumaNN Donors: John & Helen Widner

HELEN marIE LEITa Donor: DaCosta Lodge

KIm GEBErT Donor: Richland Lodge

Emma K. GarNETT Donor: Brenham Lodge

Donations to the Retirement Home Scholarship Fund in Memory of: mELVIN FETTErS Donor: New Braunfels Lodge

waYNE J. DaVIS wILBErT L. PraESEL Donor: Kirby Lodge

Donations to the Camp in Memory of: EMMA K. GARNETT Donor: Brenham Lodge

Donations to the Camp Scholarship Fund in Memory of: EVELYN B. COOK Donor: Houston Lodge

Medical Notes cont’d. from pg. 10

• problems with short-term memory • wandering or getting lost • trouble managing money • difficulty planning or follow ing through on activities

December 2016 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 11

WebMD says vascular dementia can occur over time as “silent” strokes build up – something that seems to occur more

readily in smokers and those with cardiovascular disease.

Symptoms of cognitive decline that may result from smoking and vascular dementia can include:

• loss of bladder or bowel control • delusions or hallucinations • inappropriate emotions • impaired coordination or balance

More research is needed with regard to the link between smoking and cognitive decline but indications are that there is now another reason to quit the habit.

sonia m. pieper Louise Schuetze Lodge Died May 11, 2008 • Age 71

glenn h. kusenberger Kirby Lodge Died Feb. 8, 2013 • Age 79

juanita e. arntzen Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge Died June 16, 2016 • Age 94

pauline mae kempf Brunhilde Lodge Died Sept. 14, 2016 • Age 64

james d. williams Mission-Alamo Lodge Died Sept. 29, 2016 • Age 89

melvin ray wahl Siemering Lodge Died June 7, 2008 • Age 55

emma mae bartek Schwertner Lodge Died Feb. 1, 2014 • Age 88

michael r. sergent Pershing Lodge Died June 20, 2016 • Age 55

beatrice ney koch D’Hanis Lodge Died Sept. 15, 2016 • Age 85

le roy a. bohnert Comfort Lodge Died Sept. 30, 2016 • Age 89

jerry w. magouirk Seguin Lodge Died June 13, 2008 • Age 66

larry d. finch Gonzales Lodge Died Oct. 17, 2014 • Age 68

clarence lee carson jr.

Taylor Lodge Died June 29, 2016 • Age 71

walter f. berckenhoff Gruenau Lodge Died Sept. 15, 2016 • Age 95

mary rose meurer Vineta Lodge Died Oct. 1, 2016 • Age 88

richard l. stewart Harmonia Lodge Died April 26, 2009 • Age 84

linda jane ash Twin Sisters Lodge Died Oct. 15, 2015 • Age 63

clara zuehlke Womack Lodge Died June 30, 2016 • Age 98

flossie a. allen Helotes Lodge Died Sept. 15, 2016 • Age 89

angela a. herrington La Vernia Lodge Died Oct. 3, 2016 • Age 33

gene virgil alves Anton Wenzel Lodge Died July 7, 2009 • Age 77

carmen t. pierce Louise Schuetze Lodge Died Feb. 19, 2016 • Age 94

clara mae lilie El Campo Lodge Died July 16, 2016 • Age 91

myra jean maenius Twin Sisters Lodge Died Sept. 15, 2016 • Age 66

john r. merchant Haskell Lodge Died Oct. 3, 2016 • Age 91

leaburn l.f. tipp Cat Spring Lodge Died Sept. 11, 2009 • Age 84

harold henry stirl Columbus Lodge Died Feb. 26, 2016 • Age 89

viola f. merz Shelby Lodge Died July 25, 2016 • Age 94

georgia m. mueller DaCosta Lodge Died Sept. 18, 2016 • Age 97

william l. simpson jr.

Beaumont Lodge Died Oct. 7, 2016 • Age 62

katheryne g. doerr Fort Worth Lodge Died Oct. 21, 2009 • Age 92

lucille slaughter Louise Schuetze Lodge Died March 22, 2016 • Age 94

jean warrick ray Louise Schuetze Lodge Died July 31, 2016 • Age 89

wm. g. lassig jr.

New Braunfels Lodge Died Sept. 18, 2016 • Age 85

barbara ann becker Cameron Lodge Died Oct. 7, 2016 • Age 84

kermit hugo Gay Hill Lodge Died May 5, 2012 • Age 79

esther j. reece Bexar Lodge Died April 22, 2016 • Age 79

martha vogel Seguin Lodge Died Aug. 11, 2016 • Age 88

louis d granato Siemering Lodge Died Sept. 18, 2016 • Age 94

mary kathleen castle Houston Lodge Died Oct. 9, 2016 • Age 75

nora h. knoll Twin Sisters Lodge Died June 30, 2012 • Age 97

lorraine s. martin Converse Lodge Died May 6, 2016 • Age 87

james m. dietzmann Harmonia Lodge Died Sept. 1, 2016 • Age 93

melvin gene thane Abilene Lodge Died Sept. 21, 2016 • Age 85

doris ella kosik New Bern Lodge Died Oct. 11, 2016 • Age 90

clarence a. brehm Anton Wenzel Lodge Died Sept. 13, 2012 • Age 87

edwin val smith Twin Sisters Lodge Died May 17, 2016 • Age 83

john glen murphy Harmonia Lodge Died Sept. 8, 2016 • Age 91

david l. spaeth Hochheim-Prairie Lodge Died Sept. 23, 2016 • Age 63

john krivacka Taylor Lodge Died Oct. 14, 2016 • Age 69

donnie d. schumann Mission-Alamo Lodge Died Nov. 2, 2012 • Age 64

richard a. culpepper Dunlay Lodge Died June 15, 2016 • Age 87

lloyd fulkerson New Bielau Lodge Died Sept. 11, 2016 • Age 83

vera merle turner Womack Lodge Died Sept. 23, 2016 • Age 91

doris may lange Fredericksburg Lodge Died Oct. 16, 2016 • Age 83

lamar henry hinze Orange Grove Lodge Died Dec. 9, 2012 • Age 72

nancy k. culpepper Dunlay Lodge Died June 15, 2016 • Age 84

katherine a. beavers Fort Worth Lodge Died Sept. 13, 2016 • Age 95

danley e. voss Laubach Lodge Died Sept. 24, 2016 • Age 84

fred h. pfeiffer Siemering Lodge Died Oct. 17, 2016 • Age 83

In Memoriam of Our Deceased Members

frances ckodre Nordheim Lodge Died Jan. 14, 2013 • Age 97

The names of deceased members are listed on this page only after a death claim has been filed.

Page 12 – Hermann SonS Life – December 2016

Retirement Home

Residents take part in trick-or-treating fun COMFORT – Visitors to the Retirement Home in October were Lowell and Peggy Reeves, Burkeville; William Purcell, Georgetown; Carol Krauss, Pershing Lodge; Grand Vice President-Marketing Tim Kolbe; Beth Cruse, Bulverde, Siemering Lodge; Cynthia Seideman Tonn, Wylie, Louise Schuetze Lodge; and Karen and Randy Locke, Conroe, Montgomery Lodge.

Myrtle Kirchhoff attended the wedding of her granddaughter, Autumn Marks, to Aaron Pyka on Oct. 8 in Buda.

Myrtle reported that it was a beautiful occasion.

Resident Annette Shaw dreamed up an idea to give Our Home Scholarship Fund Store a boost of awareness and a good reason to celebrate. She devised a way to do both – she invited all the Home residents to visit the store to view the newest items for sale and to participate in a drawing for prizes commemorating Columbus Day. She asked trivia questions pertaining to this holiday between the drawings for prizes in honor of Columbus’ three ships, the Nina, the Pina and the Santa Maria. The prize winners competed in the Chinese Christmas process making it more entertaining for spectators. The event was so successful that Annette plans to repeat this process on a monthly basis.

On Oct. 24, Pastor David Guthrie conducted chapel service and Holy Communion with residents Al Schroeder and Kathy Bender assisting.

Martha Willems has had a Big Tooth maple tree planted in memory of husband and former resident Joel Willems.

May it live long and bring fond memories of Joel.

See RESIDENTS, Pg. 13

Among those trick-or-treating at the Home were, from left, Dax Walker, Kacee, Erin, Mackynzie and Jonathan Gunnink, Sara Walker, Jordyn Gunnink, Kierstan Walker holding Jon Tyler Gunnink and Madysen Walker.

Residents sat on the sunroom porch and handed out Halloween treats to those who came by. Those taking part were, from left, Rosie Franklin, Betty and Ross Murphy and Vernell Homilius.

On hand to pass out candy on Halloween were, from left, Vonnie Clubb, Myrtle Kirchhoff and Bob Anderson. Other residents sat on the dorm porches. Some of the residents dressed in costumes for the occasion In October, resident Carol Chriswell, left, and Beth Cruse were reunited after more than 30 years. They met in 1980 in a singles group. They enjoyed friendship until about 1985 when life sent them in different directions. Beth saw Carol’s picture and name in an article in the newspaper about the Home’s 100-year anniversary. Beth contacted the Home and Carol was happy to get the call. Beth has been a Hermann Sons member since birth. She is hoping to someday soon make application to become a resident at the Home.

Jean Merchant, left, and Elsie Anderson have tried out the three newly-installed clothes dryers in the Home’s laundry room.

Resident Beverly Anderson, right, reports that her sisters, Janis McRae, left, and Karen Carnavale joined her in a short excursion to Waring for the Waring Volunteer Fire Department’s Annual Fish Fry on Oct. 30. The three sisters enjoyed the “never disappointing” meal and social. Beverly was surprised to see members of her former lodge, Pershing Lodge of San Antonio, who stopped by to eat while traveling. The sisters continued their visit for hours and got an education in the different functions of a fire truck. Plans are being made to attend the next function - a fajita supper and dance in May.

December 2016 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 13

Retirement Home Maxwell to host mini dance recital

Among those celebrating October birthdays at the Home were, from left, Myrtle Kirchhoff, Larry Keller and Vonnie Clubb. The birthday celebrants were honored with cake and ice cream for the noon meal dessert on Oct. 20.

MAXWELL – Maxwell Lodge will host the annual Luling School of Dance mini recital Sunday, Dec. 11, at 2 p.m. at the Maxwell Social Club. Attendees are asked to bring a non-perishable food item for donation to the Luling/ Caldwell Food Bank. Refreshments will be served and door prizes will be awarded. Santa will bring gift bags to the children.

Halloween was the theme for the Sunday, Nov. 6, meeting.

The election of officers was held. New officers include president, Catherine Blackard; vice president, Ronnie Duesterheft; and secretary/ treasurer, Darlene Bohmfalk.

All other officers remain the same.

Niederwald Lodge will host

Retirement Home Christmas Fund

Resident Loretta Ellerbee celebrated her birthday in October.

Resident Harold Forqueran celebrated his birthday in October.

Residents create jewelry in support of scholarships Cont’d. from Pg. 12 Residents Jane Haberman and Annette Shaw are busy creating beautiful jewelry to sell in Our Home Scholarship Fund Store.

They are looking for an “outside market” to purchase our wares.

We raise funds to award five $1,500 scholarships each year to graduating Hermann Sons seniors.

Jane and Annette can create bracelets, necklaces, earrings, keyrings, backpack zipper pulls, etc. for spirit jewelry (in school colors), family reunions, holidays, special events and personal preferences.

Jane just completed an order for 500 bracelets for a Comfort merchant who gives them as favors to customers who drop in during the annual Comfort Girls’ Night Out early Christmas shopping event. This is the second year that Miss Giddy has ordered bracelets from Jane.

Call Jane at 830-431-2694 for information and prices.

Or better yet, load up your car or van and come visit us.

It should be a beautiful drive into the Texas Hill Country for you to view lovely scenery and to check out our lovely Retirement Home – one of the many benefits of being a member of this great organization.

– Helen Widner

These lodges had contributed as of Nov. 16: Cuero Family ..........................$25 Giddings ..................................100 Niederwald .............................100 McGregor ..................................25 Hondo Victory..........................50 Macdona ....................................50 Hondo.......................................100 Albert Kypfer ............................25 Bexar ...........................................25 Pershing .....................................50 Spring Branch ........................100 Zuehl ...........................................25 Karnes City ................................50 Taylor...........................................50 Austin..........................................25 Fort Worth ...............................100 Houston .....................................50 Hochheim-Prairie .................100 Lockhart .....................................50 Mission-Alamo.........................50 San Marcos................................25 General Bee ..............................25 Beaumont..................................50 Deanville ....................................25 Corpus Christi ..........................50 La Grange ..................................50 Moulton ...................................100 Vineta ..........................................50 Total to Date .....................$1,525

Maxwell Lodge members in costume at the Nov. 6 meeting included, from left, Elsie Croley, fashion expert; Emma Jean Schulle, bird watcher; Jerry Burklund, good witch; Laura Bohmfalk, Minnie Mouse; Darlene Bohmfalk, princess; Charles Croley, wild child of the 50s; and Catherine Blackard, awesome grandma. the installation of officers in January at the Maxwell Social Club.

The lodge welcomes new members from Kyle, Parrish and Cheryl Shelley and their

son, Trent Shelley.

Charles and Elsie Croley won the door prizes.

The next regular meeting will be held in February.

– Reporter

Niederwald to celebrate Christmas on Dec. 13 NIEDERWALD – Niederwald Lodge members are encouraged to wear Christmas colors to the Dec. 13 meeting to be held at the Sirloin Stockade beginning at 11 a.m.

At the Nov. 8 meeting, Agent Charles Croley discussed insurance plans and efforts to bring younger members into the lodge.

Harry Schriber will be the lodge’s delegate to the Grand Lodge Convention in May. Don Dailey is the alternate.

Discussion was held on new signage for the lodge and holding a fund-raiser.

Door prize winners were Nancy Smith and Don Dailey.

– Reporter

From the Home Office family to yours!

Page 14 – Hermann Sons Life – December 2016

Richard Moring, left, was the guest speaker at the October meeting of Schulenburg Lodge. He is pictured with Frank Bohlmann who arranges for the speakers for the lodge.

Celebrating birthdays at the October meeting of Schulenburg Lodge were, from left, Becky Bohlmann, Mary K. Seifert, Jennifer Moring, Delores Michalke and Calvin Dieringer.

Shirley Machicek and husband Donnie (not pictured) celebrate their anniversary in October. They are members of Schulenburg Lodge.

Schulenburg hears presentation from tax assessor SCHULENBURG – Schulenburg Lodge will hold its Christmas party on Saturday, Dec. 10, at the American Legion Hall. The Humanitarian Award will be presented.

Guests at the Oct. 12 meeting were Richard Moring, Fayette County tax assessor, and his wife, Jennifer Moring.

Mr. Moring talked about the process of assessing property taxes in Fayette County.

Welcomed as new members were Peighton G. Stafford, Bessie M. Cooper, Nadia A. Vela and Gloria E. Mora.

Agent Seifert reported that 119 dancers are enrolled in the Schulenburg School of Dance

Poth Lodge President Paul Hosek presents Cloe Alyssa Bostick with her Camp scholarship.

The Michalkes made donations in memory of Leon Steffek and Caleb Hager.

Donations were made to the Boys and Girls Club and the Food Pantry in observance of Make a Difference Day. Members were thanked for preparing the meal of hamburgers and pudding and for

helping in the kitchen.

Schulenburg Lodge meets the second Wednesday of each month except December at the Schulenburg Community Center beginning with refreshments at 6:30 p.m. Dinner is served at 7 p.m. and the meeting follows.

– Reporter

Wyatt Theodore Hoover was one of the recipients of a Camp scholarship from Poth Lodge. He is pictured with lodge President Paul Hosek.

Lucille Novak celebrated her birthday in October. She is a member of Poth Lodge.

this year. The Christmas recital will be held Saturday, Dec. 3, at the Civic Center in two sessions. One will start at 1 p.m. and the other will start at 3 p.m.

Thinking of you cards were sent to Delores Michalke and Elmarine Matus. Sister Michalke thanked the lodge.

Poth Lodge welcomes 10 new members in October POTH – Poth Lodge welcomed 10 new members during the Oct. 2 meeting.

They are Kendal Cooper Marin, Trinity Northam, Corinn Rose Pruski, Tynley Marie Kotara, Connley Ann Martin, Sadie Rose Skloss, Abigail Eliza-

beth Skloss, Elizabeth Ann Graham, Daisy Rae Daniel and Makenzie Rose Daniel.

Lawrence Maha reported that he contacted the Ag Department at Poth High School about making a rolling chair/ table storage unit. The lodge

will pay for the materials and make a donation to the Ag Department.

Two of the four recipients of the lodge’s Camp scholarships were present to receive they award. Wyatt Theodore Hoover and Cloe Alyssa Bos-

tick talked about how much they enjoyed Camp, especially the food.

Door prize winners were Margaret Hoover and Lawrence Maha.

Three names were drawn for the kitty but Earnest Lehnhoff,

Constance Kollodziej and Amanda Poth Tackitt were not in attendance to claim the cash.

Frito chili pie was served along with cookies for dessert.

– Beth Cutsinger

December 2016 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 15 Laubach Lodge donated supplies to the Friedens Early Learning Academy in observance of Make a Difference Day in October. Accepting the donation are Pastors Dave, Sonja Phillips and Bonnie Neumann.

The Christmas party will be held Sunday, Dec. 11, at the Dixie Grill in Seguin at 1 p.m.

Members are asked to bring canned goods for the Christian Cupboard. Members celebrating October birthdays were Virgil Vogel, Gilbert Neff and Lloyd Engelke. The lodge picnic was held Sept. 11 at the Red Barn.

A meal of hot dogs with all the trimmings was served with ice cream for dessert.

Laubach donates to academy

Harmonia Christmas party Dec. 8 SAN ANTONIO – Harmonia Lodge’s annual Christmas meeting will be held Dec. 8.

The lodge will provide the ham. Members are asked to bring a side dish or dessert.

The 2017 officers will be elected along with delegates to the Grand Lodge Convention to be held in May. A representative of the San Antonio Police Officers Association’s Blue Santa Program will be there so bring an unwrapped gift or check to help a needy family this Christmas.

The lodge’s Oktoberfest began with an inspiring rendition of The Star Spangled Banner played by the Hermann Sons German Band.

Mike Beam, Albert Ranzau

and John Hoog prepared the sausage and sauerkraut dinner with other members providing the side dishes and desserts Welcomed as a new junior member was Blain Michael Titus, age 7.

President Bill Richard and Vice President Mike Beam were re-elected to represent the lodge on the Home Association Board. The board will elect officers at the Nov. 17 meeting.

Members mourned the passing of several members.

They are Melvin A. Thiele, age 86, who passed away Aug. 17 and had been a member since 1947; James M. Dietzmann, age 92, who passed away Sept. 1 and had been a

member since 1952; John S. Jockusch, age 98, who passed away Sept. 4 and had been a member since 1952; John Glen Murphy, age 91, who passed away Sept. 8 and had been a member since 1955; William M. Porter Jr., age 63, who passed away Sept. 21 and had been a member since 1970; and Donald Alan Neal, age 66, who passed away Sept. 27 and had been a member since 1955.

Brad Dietrich and Stan Steiger won the attendance prizes. Alfred Stremmel won the split-the-pot cash.

The German band under the direction of Paul Conner ended the evening with a medley of tunes.

– Reporter

Seguin Lodge welcomes new juniors

Olivia Elder (Dory) and Bailey Preuss (Minnie Mouse) enjoyed the tiny trick or treating event that was part of the October meeting of Comfort Lodge. Olivia is pictured with her mother, Sarah Elder, and Bailey is pictured with her grandfather, Grand President Buddy Preuss. Everyone played Halloween games and enjoyed the goodies.

Comfort party on Dec. 11 COMFORT – Comfort Lodge will hold its annual Christmas party on Sunday, Dec. 11, at 3 p.m. at Hilltop.

The Comfort School of Dance students will perform and Santa will stop by for a visit with the children. A meal will be served.

The lodge will sponsor a golf tournament on Feb. 25 to raise money for the Grief Support Session at Hermann Sons LifeCamp. The tournament will be played at the Buckhorn Golf Course in Comfort. For more

information, contact Jennifer Cernosek at jenniferc@hermannsonslife.org. This will be the lodge’s Join Hands Day project.

Officers for 2017 were elected at the October meeting and will be president, Connie Spenrath; vice president, Jennifer Cernosek; secretary, Kristen Vineyard; and treasurer, Bobbye Burrow.

For the most up-to-date news be sure to check out the lodge’s Facebook page.

– Reporter

SEGUIN – Seguin Lodge welcomed seven new members during the October meeting. They are Brooklyn Faith Buitron, Dylan Michael Buitron, Riley Elizabeth Pickett, Malerie Ann Martinez, Megyn Faith Miller, Jazmine Rose Guerrero and Zoey Martinez.

Adult and junior members took part in the costume contest. The winners were Easton and Avery Zamora in the junior category and Vernelle Jones and Roy Merz in the adult category. Robin Larson and Tammy Beutnagel also particiTaking part in the costume contest held as part of the Seguin pated.

Lodge meeting in October were, from left, Tammy Beutnagel, The annual Christmas celebraRoy Merz, Vernelle Jones, Robin Larson and Easton and Avery tion is scheduled for Sunday, Dec. 11. All members and their guests are invited to attend. The lodge will provide the meat for the meal.

Members are asked to bring a side dish and dessert.

Classes from the Seguin School of Dance will perform. And Santa is expected to stop by!

A prize drawing and bucket drawing will be held with all proceeds going to the lodge’s building fund.

Ashley Winters would have won The attendance prize winners at the October meeting of Se- the progressive pot but she was guin Lodge were Mary Allison, Brian Beutnagel, Jeremy Hueb- not in attendance. ner, Stig Larson and Howard Huebner.

– Tammy Beutnagel

Page 16 – Hermann Sons Life – December 2016

Mission-Alamo elects 2017 officers, delegates SAN ANTONIO – The October meeting for MissionAlamo Lodge was busy, productive and fun. A Halloween celebration was held and members came out in their best costumes.

Officers for the coming year were elected and will be Carol Swan, president; Diane Cline, vice president, J.R. Kneupper, trustee; and Kathy Wilson, Finance Committee member.

Delegates for the 2017 Grand Lodge Convention will be Bernice Vogel, Carol Swan and Joyce Kneupper. Alternates are Don Schulmeier and Dorothy Breezee.

In observance of Make a Difference Day, members donated dog and cat food to the Meals on Wheels program.

Thanks go to the members for their donations.

Lillie Mae Dienger won split-the-pot and the other half was donated to “Hugs from Home.”

Anniversary celebrants recognized at the October meeting of Mission-Alamo Lodge were, from left, Lee and Bernice Vogel, 61 years, and Diane and Kirby Cline, 29 years.

Mission-Alamo Lodge celebrated Halloween at the October meeting. In costume are members, front, from left, Debbie Pike, Joyce Kneupper, Dorothy Breezee, Seth Adams, back, from left, Diane Cline, Dianne Larned, Carol Swan, Kirby Cline, Kathy Wilson and Lillie Mae Dienger.

Kathy Wilke and Caitlan Lozano could have gone home with the jackpot money but they were not in attendance.

The jackpot increases to $220 for the January meeting.

The last scheduled lodge

event for 2016 was the preholiday party on Nov. 20.

The next meeting is scheduled for Jan. 25 at 7 p.m.

Come and help plan meetings and events for 2017.

– Reporter

Celebrating birthdays at the Mission-Alamo Lodge October meeting were, from left, Carol Swan, Lee Vogel and Lillie Mae Dienger.

Anton Wenzel Christmas party Dec. 6 SAN ANTONIO – Anton Wenzel Lodge will celebrate Christmas at the Dec. 6 meeting. Those planning to go on the annual Christmas barge ride are asked to be at the Home Association building at 5:30 p.m. Members will walk together to the river for the ride that begins at 6 p.m. Tickets can be purchased on the day of the ride at a cost of $8.

Members of other lodges are welcome.

When everyone returns to the Home Association, a meal featuring tamales and ham will be served. Everyone is asked to bring a side dish or dessert.

A turkey dinner was served at the Nov. 1 meeting.

Members are reminded that the lodge’s phone number is changing. It will now be 210815-3468. The new number

Anton Wenzel Lodge President Edward Elizondo wishes Emma Moya a Happy Birthday during the November meeting. will be listed in directories distributed to members. Call this number if you have any questions.

Current officers were reelected at the November

Emma Moya, right, presents Julie O’Dowd with her split-the-pot winnings during the November Anton Wenzel Lodge meeting.

meeting so the 2017 officers will be Edward Elizondo, president; Larry Burns, vice president; Emma Moya, trustee; and Delmus Brau, Finance Committee member.

The November membership drawing winner would have been David F. Renken but he was not there to collect his winnings.

– Reporter

DaCosta youth party on Dec. 10 DACOSTA – DaCosta Lodge will host the annual Youth Christmas party on Saturday, Dec. 10, at 2 p.m.

The dance classes will perform and a prize drawing will be held to help pay for the cost of renting a location for the school of dance’s 2017 recital.

Refreshments will be served. Santa will be there and a monetary gift will be provided for all junior members ages 0-18 present.

Those attending are asked to bring canned goods or monetary or clothing donations for the Victoria Christian Assistance Ministry.

– Sayra Martinak

December 2016 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 17

Rutersville to serve pork steaks at holiday party RUTERSVILLE – Rutersville Lodge will hold its Christmas party on Saturday, Dec. 3, beginning at 6 p.m.

A meal of pork steaks and sides will be served. Members are asked to bring a dessert or snacks.

Santa will visit and will bring a bag of goodies for each of the children.

The lodge met Nov. 2 and welcomed two new members.

They are Raelyn Alyse Ashima and Khloe Adele Noak.

Officers were elected and

will be president, Sherry Noak; vice president, Weldon Hartmann; secretary, Mary Jane Treybig; treasurer, Delores Bayer; Finance Committee members, Kirby Keilers, Stephen (Chip) Citzler and Allen Faldyn; and trustees, Brian Mueller, Wayne Noak and Glenn Altwein.

Sherry Noak and Delores Bayer attended the Leadership Summit in Brenham.

Attendance prize winners were Joyce Faldyn, Glenn Altwein, Ricky Kuhn, Jeanette

Citzler and Kirby Keilers.

The Cheer Committee reported sending a get-well card to Jo Ann Mueller and will be sending a card to El Gene Weyand following his surgery.

The meal featured fried chicken with members providing the side dishes and desserts.

Members are asked to check the local newspaper for information about the next meeting.

– Reporter

Celebrating special occasions at the November Rutersville Lodge meeting were, from left, Weldon Hartmann and Glenn Hartmann, a birthday; JoAnn and Leon Heintschel, an anniversary; and JoAnn Mueller, a birthday.

Richland honors membership pin, award recipients RICHLAND – Richland Lodge honored its membership pin and Humanitarian Award recipients recently.

Grand Finance Committee Chairman Janice Kuhen presented the pins.

Three members received 70year pins. They are Margaret Shults, Rose Janke and Marvin Graw, all members since Jan. 23, 1946.

Frankie Davis, a member since March 22, 1956, and Annabelle Paladino, a member since Dec. 13, 1956, received their 60-year pins.

Fifty-year pins were presented to Tammy Kelley and Bubba Weiss, both members since Nov. 3, 1966.

The Humanitarian Award was presented to Kayse Kelley

by Alvin Schultz and Tammy Kelley. Sister Kelley has been a lifelong member of the lodge.

She is the cheerperson for the lodge and assists with the annual memorial service. She serves as one of the managers of the Cele 4-H Club and is active as a church and community volunteer.

The Christmas party will be held Dec. 4 at Richland Hall. A carry-in lunch will be served at noon and a “white elephant” gift exchange will be held.

– Reporter

Janice Kuhen, left, presents 70-year membership pins to three members of Richland Lodge. They are, from left, Margaret Shults, Rose Janke and Marvin Graw.

Kayse Kelley, third from left, receives the Richland Lodge Humanitarian Award for 2016. Making the presentation were Tammy Kelley, from left, Janice Kuhen and Alvin Schultz.

Castroville presents pins

Two members of Richland Lodge recently received their 60year membership pins from Janice Kuhen, center. They are, left, Frankie Davis and Annabelle Paladino.

Castroville Lodge presented pins during the Sept. 27 meeting.

Pictured are, from left, 70-year pin recipients, John Henry Bippert and David J. Bippert, 60-year recipients, Wiley S. Mangold and Edgar H. Skolaut Jr., Grand Vice President-Investments Harry Werland and Secretary-Treasurer/Agent Glenford Boehme. The Bipperts have been members since May 27, 1946. Brother Mangold joined on May 18, 1956; and Brother Skolaut became a member April 10, 1956.

Page 18 – Hermann Sons Life – December 2016

Round Top Lodge re-elects current officers ROUND TOP – Members joined in singing “God Bless America” to start the Oct. 27 meeting of Round Top Lodge.

Halloween greetings were sent to all shut-ins, a plant was given to Marie Nelius, a monetary donation was given to Gerry Banik and a donation was made to the Ledbetter Fire Department in memory of Ruby Lowery. Notes of thanks

were read from the Carmine Fire Department and Karson Zoch.

The current elected officers were re-elected by acclamation. Melanie Rauch was appointed community coordinator.

A light lunch and fellowship followed.

– Reporter

Attendance prize winners at the October meeting of Round Top Lodge were, from left, Sophie Rauch, Orville Glaesmann, Barney and Doris Georges and Jocie Braun.

Celebrating birthdays at the October meeting of Round Top Lodge were Jeanette Schoenst and Orville Glaesmann.

Giddings has new members Door prize winners at the October meeting of Round Top Lodge were, from left, Jeanette Schoenst, Bob and Betty Porter, Mary and Melanie Rauch, Orville Glaesmann, Floyd Braun and Lila Garlin.

Answers to puzzles on Pg. 36 Christmas crossword ACROSS 1. Frosty 4. Sleigh 8. Elf 9. Ornaments 10. Christmas 11. Stocking 12. Tree

DOWN 2. Rudolph 3. Snow 5. Chimney 6. Candycane 7. Present 10. Cookie 11. Santa

Christmas Word Scramble 1. bells 2. poinsettia 3. candle 4. gingerbread 5. wreath 6. reindeer

7. stocking 8. cookies 9. elves 10. present 11. holiday 12. ornaments

Christmas Word Search

On Oct. 20, Giddings Lodge members Pat Abell, Loretta Chilek and Brenda Potter provided sandwiches, chips, cookies and drinks to the 66 children at the Giddings Youth Club. This was the lodge’s Make a Difference Day project. Joining them were Lollie and Ray McCorquodale from Paige Lodge.

GIDDINGS – Giddings Lodge welcomed nine new members at the October meeting.

They are Ashley Martinez, Jessica Martinez, Michelle Martinez, Belle DeLaRosa, Braden Toyota, Maurielle Flores, Zoey Sanchez, Valeria Tello and Jakori Hannah.

Celebrating birthdays were Pat Abell, Brenda Potter and Bernice Bitter.

Hattie Harmon, Johnny Herzik and Pat Abell won the dollar pots.

– Reporter

Stern Christmas party on Dec. 4 SEGUIN – Stern Lodge will hold its Christmas party Sunday, Dec. 4, at the American Legion Hall beginning at noon. All members of the lodge are invited to attend.

Food, fun, fellowship, door prizes and guessing games will be part of the celebration.

Members enjoyed a Thanksgiving feast prior to the Nov. 6 meeting.

Officers elected for the upcoming year are president, Paul Altherr; vice president,

Donald Morawietz; recording secretary, Barbara Morawietz; and financial secretary, Fran Altherr. Lee Wilson, Harmony Stahl and Gloria Reininger will serve as financial trustees. Bobbie Wesch will serve as cheer chairman and Barbara Morawietz will be the reporter.

Brother Morawietz will represent the lodge at the Grand Lodge Convention in May. The lodge’s charter was draped in memory of 46-year

member Kathleen Boeder who passed way Oct. 4. Her daughters, Candice Holmes and Lorene Rangel, were in attendance and joined members in a moment of silence in her memory.

Get-well wishes were sent to Ann Patek and Harmony Stahl.

November birthday celebrant Fran Altherr was recognized. Attendance prize winners were Kirsten Bode, Paul Altherr and Reno Reiley.

– Reporter

December 2016 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 19

Hochheim-Prairie will celebrate Christmas Dec. 4 YOAKUM – Hochheim-Prairie Lodge will celebrate Christmas on Sunday, Dec. 4, beginning at 3 p.m.

Officers were elected at the Nov. 6 meeting. They will be president, Janet Zabransky; vice president, Roberta Wenzel; corresponding/financial secretary, Carolyn Hoepfl; treasurer, Wilburn Pargmann; and financial trustees, Charlie Hoepfl, Ann Machalec, Sherri Spaeth and Debbie Zinke.

The membership coordinator will be Roberta Wenzel and the community coordinator will be Carolyn Hoepfl.

Delegates elected to represent the lodge at the Grand Lodge Convention next May were Janet Zabransky, Roberta Wenzel, Carolyn Hoepfl and Ann Machalec. Alternate delegates are Mary Koenig, Charlie Hoepfl, Tommy Wenzel and Mary Parg-

Hochheim-Prairie Lodge recently made a donation to the local food pantry. Pictured are, from left, Vice President Roberta Wenzel, Carolyn Strong from the food pantry, President Janet Zabransky and Financial/Corresponding Secretary Carolyn Hoepfl. mann.

Sympathy cards were sent to the J.E. Mudd and George Roznovsky families.

A thank you card was read from Bluebonnet Youth Ranch for donations made in memory of deceased members.

The birthday honoree was Wilburn Pargmann and anniversary honorees were Wilburn and Mary Pargmann and Tommy and Roberta Wenzel.

Attendance prize winner was Agent Mary Koenig.

– Reporter

Terry Pargmann, third from right, a member of Hochheim-Prairie Lodge, lives in Fort Wayne, Ind., where he is a volunteer for Big Brothers Big Sisters. He and another man, Andy Norman, are pictured presenting craft supplies and games to Principal Benjamin Hartman at Price Elementary in Fort Wayne. Price Elementary was the first of 28 Allen County schools to receive the items as part of a project started by Brother Pargmann and Andy Norman on behalf of the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Indiana’s School Buddies program. Brother Pargmann is the son of Wilburn and Mary Pargmann.

Gulf Lodge to hold next meeting Dec. 4 at Kelley’s LA MARQUE – Gulf Lodge will meet Sunday, Dec. 4, at 3 p.m. at Kelley’s.

Eight new members were welcomed at the Sept. 25 meeting. They are Scott, Donovan and Sophia Guzman, June Billot, Corina Lee and

Nia Elise Elcure, John Thomas Thorn and Brian Johnson.

The lodge’s 125th anniversary celebration will be held at the Moody Gardens Hotel in Galveston on March 26 from 1 to 4 p.m.

A thank you note was read

David Bujan, center, receives his 60-year membership pin from Special Representative Al Stryk, left, and Gulf Lodge President Henry Bennison. Brother Bujan lives in Pasadena.

from scholarship recipient Charles Maldonado.

The lodge received a certificate from the Home Office in recognition of its participation in the Special Olympics in observance of Join Hands Day.

Marion Brick, who turned 100 in August, was unable to attend the meeting. She is in a nursing facility. A card was signed by all to be mailed to her.

Also, a card was signed for member Dorothy Cathcart

who is still fighting cancer.

Attendance prizes went to Clyde Hannes, Jerre Massa, Amanda Sims, David Bujan, Marie Stryk, Henry Wulf, Gary Scales and Shirley Hannes.

– Reporter

Amanda Sims receives her 50-year member- Celebrating recent birthdays were Gulf Lodge ship pin from Special Representative Al Stryk members, from left, Clyde Hannes, Marie Stryk at the September meeting of Gulf Lodge. Sister and Eric Scales.

Sims lives in Freeport.

Page 20 – Hermann SonS Life – December 2016

Lockhart Lodge honors veterans at meeting LOCKHART – Lockhart Lodge will hold its Christmas party at Bella Sera. All members are welcome to attend.

No regular meeting will be held in January but members are encouraged to attend the installation of officers ceremony scheduled for Jan. 22.

Veterans were honored at the Nov. 6 meeting held at Chisholm Trail Barbecue. Johnny Siemering and Rudy Schroeder were recognized.

Members stood for a moment of silence in memory of William (Billy) K. Nolte who passed away on Nov. 1 at the age of 70. He had been a member since January 1965.

Agent Janice Kuhen reminded everyone that Christmas is right around the corner and buying your children and/or grandchildren a life insurance policy would be a wonderful gift and would insure that they are protected for life.

Welcomed as new members were Caylen Michelle Grisham and Case Kellen Hopkins.

Grand Vice President-Investments Harry Werland along with Sister Kuhen and Ray Pfefferkorn presented a 70-year membership pin to Nancy Hess. Sister Hess has been a member since Aug. 6, 1946.

Dickie Rutherford accepted

Lockhart Lodge members dressed in their costumes to host a games party at the Golden Age Home on Halloween.

Members of Lockhart Lodge visited the Golden Age Home on Halloween in observance of Make a Difference Day.

a 70-year pin in memory of her sister, Gladys Marie Niemann. She had been a member since July 7, 1946.

Sixty-year pins will be mailed to Deborah A. Taylor, a member since Oct. 1, 1956; Janet Marie Schaefer, a member since Oct. 7, 1956; and Alice Faye Guinn, a member since Dec. 3, 1956.

Fifty-year pins will be mailed to Warren A. Zerr, a member since Oct. 6, 1966; and Beverly J. Haug, a member since Nov. 4, 1956.

The 2017 officers will be president, Ann Schroeder; vice president, Nicky Duewall; corresponding secretary, Debbie Pfefferkorn; financial secre-

Nancy Hess reported a good time was enjoyed playing games at the Golden Age Home in observance of Make a Difference Day. The event was held Oct. 31. After many games with prizes for the winners, refreshments of cupcakes and punch were served and each resident was given a goody bag since it was Halloween.

Some members dressed in their Halloween costumes.

Members taking part were Nancy Hess, McKenzie Hess and her guest, Sarah, Bethany Visage, Dot Kuntschik, Margie Bozarth, Dickie Rutherford and Lil Pfefferkorn.

A thank you note was read

tary/treasurer, Ray Pfefferkorn; financial trustees, Jonelle Frerich, Maurine Coker and Janet Schaefer; membership coordinator, Dickie Rutherford; community coordinator, Nancy Hess; communication coordinator, Lil Pfefferkorn; and youth coordinator, Carol Schuelke.

Delegates to the Grand Lodge Convention in May will be Ann Schroeder, Jonelle Frerich and Lil Pfefferkorn. Dickie Rutherford will be the alternate.

A donation will be sent to the Retirement Home Christmas Fund.

Community Coordinator

from the Seton Hays Foundation for the lodge’s donation to the 12th annual Taking Care of Tiny Texas Gala.

The lodge received an invitation from Niederwald Lodge to attend the installation of officers ceremony on Jan. 22 at the Maxwell Social Club. The afternoon’s activities begin at 2 p.m.

Celebrating birthdays in November were Ann Schroeder, Anna Kate Duewall, Margie Bozarth, Dickie Rutherford, Darrell Hess and Johnny Siemering.

Door prize winners were Darrell Hess, Nicky Duewall and Lil Pfefferkorn.

– Reporter

McGregor elects 2017 officers, will meet Dec. 7 McGREGOR – McGregor Lodge will meet Dec. 7 beginning at 6 p.m. in the Marblecrest Housing Community Room. Food and drinks will be provided.

The lodge celebrated Thanksgiving at the Nov. 2 meeting. Leona Hendrickson and Doris Mooney prepared the meal.

Officers for 2017 were elected and appointed. They will be president, Doris Mooney;

vice president, Regina Arseneaux; secretary/treasurer, Leona Hendrickson; trustees, Milton Schmalriede, Albert Wolf and Charles McAnelly; Finance Committee members, Janet Schmalriede, Yvonne Schmalriede and John Sneed; guide, Charles McAnelly; inner guard, Carol Wiethorn; outer guard, Regina Arseneaux, Cheer Committee, Hermine Wolf; reporter, Doris Mooney; and historian, Leona

Hendrickson.

President Mooney thanked Regina Arseneaux, Leona Hendrickson, Karen Rice, Teresa Sneed, Carol Wiethorn and Doris Mooney for baking cookies and serving them to the residents of Westview Manor in observance of Make a Difference Day. They played games with the residents and presented the winners with tokens.

Welcomed as new junior

members were Jami Symank, daughter of Lindsey King Symank, and Ryan King, son of Brady King. Their great-grandparents are Gus and Joyce Wiethorn.

Members are mourning the passing of Harry Witt. Brother Witt passed away after having an accident at his home.

Glad to see Milton Schmalriede out and about. He was recently attacked by bees.

The Home Office acknowl-

edged the lodge’s donation to the Retirement Home Christmas Fund.

“Happy Birthday” was sung to Geraldine Witt Palmer, Charles McAnelly and Al Wolf.

Anniversary bells ring out for Milton and Yvonne Schmalriede. They have been married 59 years.

Door prize winners were Karen Rice and Janet Schmalriede.

– Reporter

December 2016 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 21

Pershing Lodge plans Christmas party for Dec. 7 SAN ANTONIO – Pershing Lodge will hold its Christmas meeting and party on Wednesday, Dec 7, at 7 p.m. in the San Antonio Home Association Ballroom.

The lodge will provide the ham and members are asked to bring side dishes and desserts.

Santa should be making an appearance and members will play games.

The lodge is collecting nonbreakable household items, linens, toiletries and paper products for donation to Home Comfort. Items should be brought to the December meeting. Jim Gerhard will deliver them.

Kashlynn Blane Guidry was welcomed as a new member at the November meeting.

Representing the lodge at the 2017 Grand Lodge Con-

Pershing Lodge members who celebrated a November birthday were, from left, Katherine Gerhard, Carrie Burns, Mike and Terri Armstrong and Janilla Kilborn.

Celebrating a November anniversary were Pershing Lodge members Janilla and Wayne Kilborn.

The 2017 elected officers will be Beth Warne, president; Alice Golla, vice president; Marilyn Hoster, financial secretary/treasurer; and James Lay, financial trustee.

Terri Armstrong reported that the next trip for the lodge would be in January 2017.

Vice President Mike Armstrong and member Diane Ervin presented teddy bears to the San Antonio Police Department’s Prue Road Substation.

The lodge collected the bears in observance of Make A Difference Day. Lodge

vention will be Beth Warne, Alice Golla, Dorothy Pawlik, James Lay, Bobby Ervin, Tony Valek, Mary Ann Keller, Gilbert Keller and Diane Ervin.

The five alternates chosen were Terri Armstrong, Marilyn Hoster, John Opiela, Louise Mulhern and Carol Krauss.

Fort Worth to elect officers, delegates at Dec. 4 meeting FORT WORTH – Fort Worth Lodge has added another junior member to its membership roster. The newest member is Jaxsen Voss. Jaxsen is the son of Chance Voss and grandson of Cindy Davis.

That puts the lodge one step closer to meeting its new member goal for 2016.

The lodge’s next meeting will be held Dec. 4 at Miranda’s in Burleson. The 2017 officers will be elected along with delegates to the Grand Lodge Convention to be held in May 2017. Important changes to the governance structure will be voted on at the convention.

Lunch will be served after the meeting. Guests are welcome.

Officers will be installed Jan. 14 in Dallas. The afternoon’s activities begin at 1 p.m.

Part of the lodge’s observance of Make a Difference Day is a donation to the Grief Support Session at Hermann Sons Camp

Jaxsen Voss is Fort Worth Lodge’s newest member. next summer. This donation will help pay for a grieving child’s tuition for a Camp session with other children who also are experiencing a significant loss. If you would like to make a donation go to hermannsonslife.org/ donate.

Congratulations to Sheila Kime and Mike Thompson who reached their 50-year milestone on Nov. 7.

Happy Birthday wishes go to Jason Clanton, Amanda Ayers, Nancy Kelly, Kenadee Leblanc, Anita Piper and Thomas Valenta.

– Reporter

member Brad Armstrong was among the police officers accepting the donations.

Members voted to make a donation to the Retirement Home Christmas Fund.

Prayers are still needed for Morrie Nordland, Betty Mettke, Doris Baumann, Ivy Kenneally and any other members who might be ill.

Dorothy Pawlik won the $25 attendance prize. Mary Brown won the split-the-pot drawing.

Katharine Gerhard took home the $270 progressive pot. Hers was the 10th name drawn. The other nine were not present. They were Michael Voss, Audrie Miller, Douglas Hall, Katelyn Nelson, Charles Pilgrim, Holly MacRossin, Roy Barr, Imelda Lynch and Lauren Weiss – Terri Armstrong

Cuero Family holiday party Dec. 6 CUERO – Cuero Family Lodge will hold its Christmas party Dec. 6.

The 2017 officers were elected at the Nov. 1 meeting.

They are president, Laura Tiffin; vice president, Gary Hotz; secretary, Allison Tiffin; financial secretary/treasurer, June Guenther; and trustees, Marvin Bade, Holly Hotz and Lawrence Hotz. The appointed officers will be communications coordinator, June Guenther; youth coordinator, Laura Tif-

fin; membership coordinator, Karlyne Tiffin; and community coordinator, June Guenther.

Members also elected delegates to the Grand Lodge convention in May. Delegates will be Wayne Tiffin, Allison Tiffin, Gary Hotz and Iris Hotz.

The alternate delegate will be Laura Tiffin.

Fifty-year pin recipients for November are Kalen Holmes and Elmer Krueger, both members since Nov. 2, 1966; Harold High II, a member

since Nov. 8, 1966; and Linda Boyer, a member since Nov. 18, 1966.

Members celebrating November birthdays were Juanita Peters, Haley Hotz, Frances Krause and Dorothy Arndt.

Door prize winners were Ruth Peters, Marvin Bade, Holly Hotz, Allison Tiffin and Laura Tiffin.

Laura Tiffin brought cookies for everyone to enjoy after the meal.

– June Guenther

Columbus will present pins Dec. 12 COLUMBUS – Columbus Lodge will hold its annual Christmas social on Dec. 12.

Membership pins will be presented.

At the Oct. 10 meeting, Elsie Kahlden reported sending a sympathy card to Terrel Maertz following the passing of his uncle, Ricky Speck, and a get-well card to Adrian Fritsch.

Since no meeting was sched-

uled for November, the election of officers for 2017 was held and all current officers were re-elected.

Celebrating birthdays and anniversaries in September were Ronnie Huebel, Kelly Lattimore, Derek Fritsch, John Gosler, Allen Hammack Jr., Beverly Meyer, Samantha Brune and Jessica Pina.

Dawnah and Adam Pina cel-

ebrated their 37th anniversary on Sept. 22.

October birthday celebrants were Debra Rhodes, Scott Wienken, Dodie Dungen, Dawn Aschenbeck, Ellen Brendle, Janet Wienken, Virginia Fritsch and Fay Pophanken.

Following entertainment led

by Elsie Kahlden, everyone enjoyed refreshments.

– Reporter

Page 22 – Hermann Sons Life – December 2016

Houston Lodge plans party, laying of wreaths

HOUSTON – Two important events are on the calendar in December for Houston Lodge.

The annual Christmas party will be held Sunday, Dec. 11.

A catered meal will be served.

There will be games, the presentation of membership pins and more.

If you plan to attend, call Gary or Doris Falkenberg at 713-466-6069 on or before Dec. 5.

On Saturday, Dec. 17, members will take part in the Laying of Wreaths ceremony at the Houston National Cemetery.

Plan to arrive before 10 a.m. and meet at the flagpole near

the Hemi Cycle on Veterans Memorial at Aldine Western Road near North Beltway 8.

This is a correction from the previously announced date of Dec. 10.

Houston Lodge is the host lodge for the 2017 officer installation. It will be held Sunday, Jan. 8, at the Sokol Hall.

Houston members are urged to be at the hall by 11:30 a.m. to assist in setting up for the event that starts at 1 p.m. All Houston Lodge members are invited to attend the installation even if you are not an officer.

Members are asked to make

note that the January meeting will be held that same day starting at approximately 3 p.m. All January business will be discussed at this time. Attendance prizes will be awarded. There will not be a meeting on Monday, Jan. 9.

The lodge met Oct. 10 and elected delegates to the Grand Lodge Convention coming up in May 2017. They are Gary Falkenberg and Pat Bushman.

Alternates in order selected are Jack Manchack, Doris Falkenberg and Catherine Manchack.

Agent/President Gary Falkenberg made a report about the recent Continuing Educa-

tion Workshop he attended in Comfort. He stated the course of study included ethics, Single Premium and Flex plans, understanding policy contract language and annuities and current legislation.

After the meeting the annual memorial service was held. It honored members who have died during the last year.

They are Joan Albert, Norman Peerce, Dorothy Muzny and Alpha Barrineau.

Peggy Haas, Pat Bushman, Doris Falkenberg, Kiera Thomason and Darlene Ellison won the attendance prizes.

– Reporter

Kiera Thomason celebrates her birthday in October. She is a member of Houston Lodge.

Zuehl will hold Christmas party Dec. 3

Klaire Rebecca Real and Karlee Deborah Real are new members of Zuehl Lodge.

ZUEHL – Zuehl Lodge will hold its Christmas party Saturday, Dec. 3, at the Bexar Bowling Club. Social hour will be from 5-6 p.m. with the meal to follow. The lodge will furnish the meat, drinks and eating utensils. Everyone is asked to bring side dishes and desserts. Membership pin recipients will be honored. For more information, call 830914-3160 or 830-420-2071.

The lodge welcomes two

new adult members, Angela Michele Barnickle and Jerome Kiolbassa, and three new junior members, Adrian Thomas Canizales, Klaire Rebecca Real and Karlee Deborah Real.

Notes of thanks were read from the Bexar Bowling Society for the donation to its prize drawing and from the Home Office for the donation to “Hugs from Home.”

Chester Jenke will be the delegate to the convention in

May and Ruth Ann Schumann will be the alternate delegate.

All officers were re-elected by acclamation for the coming year.

In observance of Make a Difference Day, a monetary donation will be made to the Guadalupe Valley Family Shelter in Seguin.

Junior members will be reimbursed for a portion of their camping fees.

Happy Anniversary wishes

go out to Colleen and Chester Jenke.

The attendance-prize winners were Ruth Ann and Ronald Schumann and Anna Dell and Roland Luensmann.

The 2017 calendar is as follows: January, installation of officers; Feb. 21, meeting; May 16, meeting; Aug. 15, birthday party and meeting; Oct. 17, meeting; and Dec. 2, Christmas party.

– Lillian Strey

San Marcos plans gift exchange

Hallettsville shares cookies In observance of Make a Difference Day, Hallettsville Lodge members visited Peter’s Place with dozens and dozens of cookies. The day care is a fun place for challenged adults. Pictured are, from left, lodge members Mae Rother, volunteer Sharon Bludau, Carol Jungman, Esther Heinsohn and coordinator Marcie Hrncir.

SAN MARCOS – San Marcos Lodge will celebrate Christmas on Sunday, Dec. 11, at 2 p.m. at the Zorn Bowling Club.

A gift exchange will be held so bring a gift valued at between $7 and $8 if you wish to participate. If you have a child, bring a gift for them. Games will be played and Santa will make an appearance.

A catered meal will be served at a cost of $5 for members and $2.50 for children. Reservations need to be made by calling Janice Kuhen no later than Dec. 2.

Members are asked to bring non-perishable items for the

food bank.

Veterans were honored at the Nov. 7 meeting held at the La Vista Retirement Home. In attendance were Billy Preuss, Bob Robbins, Bruce Moreau and Marshall McQuaig.

A donation will be sent to the York Creek Fire Department in memory of Burnice Noble. A sympathy card was sent to her family.

Officers were elected and are reminded the installation ceremony is Sunday, Jan. 22, at 2 p.m. at the Maxwell Social Club with Niederwald Lodge hosting. Notify Sister Kuhen if you

plan to attend.

Celebrating a November birthday was Florence McQuaig.

Freddie and Agnes Dreibrodt celebrated their 55th anniversary in November.

Get-well cards had been sent to Doris Schiwitz, Clifford Rust, York Linebarger and Irene Bierstedt. A thinking-of-you card was sent to Nell Linebarger.

Evonne Robbins won the attendance prize.

Thanks go to Lillian and Ken Cargill and Janet and Howard Magin for bringing the tamales.

– Reporter

December 2016 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 23

Fredericksburg to hold annual party Dec. 6 FREDERICKSBURG – Fredericksburg Lodge will hold its annual Christmas party and dinner on Tuesday, Dec. 6.

The lodge will furnish the dinner for members with guests paying $15 for their meal. The Humanitarian Award will be presented.

Deadline for reservations is Nov. 20. Contact Hans Enderlin at 895-1343 or Windy Duecker at 997-2983 for more information.

At the lodge’s Nov. 1 meeting, members and guests enjoyed a covered-dish supper.

Cindy Hiefner, executive director of the Needs Council, spoke briefly and then accepted a donation from the lodge.

She provided an overview of the fall activities. The Needs Council is currently conducting a coat drive and gifts will be collected for homebound seniors. The council has an ongoing activity of conducting domestic violence counseling. The council is located on North Llano Street.

Michael Tatsch celebrated his November birthday at the Fredericksburg Lodge meeting.

The 2017 officers were elected and will be president, Hans Enderlin; vice president, Marissa Weinheimer; secretarytreasurer, Windy Duecker; and trustee, Sandy Fisk.

The lodge’s four delegates to the 2017 Grand Lodge Convention will be Lola Enderlin, Hans Enderlin, Margaret Priess and Windy Duecker. The alter-

Cindy Hiefner, executive director of the Needs Council, accepts a donation from Fredericksburg Lodge President Hans Enderlin. nates are Elgin Tatsch, Edgar Priess, Geneva Tatsch and Dennis Henke.

The lodge observed Make a Difference Day on Oct. 21.

Eight members helped with games at Knopp I Nursing Home. Participants included Katherine Cornehl, Windy

Eight members of Fredericksburg Lodge made a difference in the lives of the residents and staff at Knopp I Nursing Home in Fredericksburg on Oct. 21. The lodge hosted a games party complete with snacks and prizes for the winners. Taking part in the activity were, from left, Hans and Lola Enderlin, Geneva and Elgin Tatsch, Windy Duecker and Margaret and Edgar Priess. Not pictured is Katherine Cornehl.

Duecker, Lola and Hans Enderlin, Margaret and Edgar Priess and Geneva and Elgin Tatsch.

Thank you notes were received from the Golden Hub for the contribution received from the lodge in October and

El Campo presents Humanitarian Award EL CAMPO – El Campo Lodge will meet Friday, Dec. 2, at 6:30 p.m. at the Golden Phoenix Restaurant in El Campo.

The lodge presented its 2016 Humanitarian Award at the Oct. 29 meeting held in the WCEC Thomas Edison Room. The award was presented to Charles Harris, the owner of Always Ready Locksmith and Towing.

Charles provides complimentary services to members of the El Campo Police when they lock their keys in their vehicle. He also provides complimentary service if a parent accidently locks a vehicle with a child inside.

Charles performs numerous duties for the El Campo Masonic Lodge and El Campo

Lodge. He and his wife, Linda, live in El Campo. On hand to see him receive the award were his wife; son, Justin and his wife Amanda; and grandchildren Mark and John Waters and Jack Harris.

Following the business meeting, the scholarship drawing was held. Thirty-four prizes were awarded. President Dennis Wigginton and Vice President Donald Wigginton were in charge of the drawing. They were assisted

by Amy Witcher, Cindy Witcher and Jeanette Sipos who recorded the names. Helping draw the tickets were Cayden Witcher, Angelina Solis and Mark and John Waters.

All proceeds from the drawing will be used to award scholarships to students grad-

Charles Harris, left, receives the 2016 Humanitarian Award for El Campo Lodge from lodge President Dennis Wigginton. uating from high school in June 2017. The names of the recipients will be announced in May. The lodge would like to

thank the local businesses and members of the lodge that donated prizes for this year’s drawing.

– Reporter

from Virginia Pehl for the well wishes received after John Pehl passed away.

Attendance prize recipients were Donna Staudt and Michael Tatsch.

– Reporter

Paige party on Dec. 11 PAIGE – Paige Lodge will hold its annual Christmas lunch and party on Sunday, Dec. 11, at noon in the St. Andrew’s Paint Creek Church Fellowship Hall. The Humanitarian Award and membership pins will be presented.

The lodge will furnish the meat and members are asked to bring side dishes and desserts.

The next meeting will be held Jan. 8 beginning at 12 noon.

A potluck lunch will be served. Bring a wrapped gift if you want to participate in the “rob your neighbor” game.

– Reporter

Page 24 – Hermann SonS Life – December 2016

Dallas will hold Christmas luncheon Dec. 18 DALLAS – Dallas Lodge will hold its annual Christmas luncheon meeting Sunday, Dec. 18, starting at 1 p.m. at Babb Brothers BBQ. Members and their guests are welcome. The restaurant is located at 3015 Gulden Lane, Suite 105, in Dallas.

A special invitation is extended to those who received their 50-year membership pins this year. Bring your pin so a Grand Lodge representative can present it to you in person.

Everyone who is planning to attend is asked to contact Steve Schellenberg at 972-790-5014.

There will not be a business meeting in December.

The lodge met Oct. 23 and recognized two 50-year members. Melissa A, Martin, who lives in Irving, and Michael R. Nelson, who lives in Mineola.

Both joined on Oct. 17, 1966.

On Oct. 22 members volunteered at the North Texas Food Bank in observance of Make a Difference Day. Those taking part were Eva Day, Bee Robinson, Andy Schellenberg, Terri and Clint Holmes and Linda and Steve Schellenberg. Columbia Lodge members Bobby and Juliea Wilbanks and Stanley Whitehead also volunteered.

These volunteers partnered with a group of 25 to sort and box cans. They completed six

pallets, 360 boxes and 10,800 pounds of food that will provide 9,000 meals for those in need. The NTFB serves four counties.

The 2017 officers and the delegates to the Grand Lodge Convention were scheduled to be elected at the Nov. 20 meeting.

The annual Hall Christmas dinner for both lodges will be held Dec. 17.

Dallas Lodge will host the installation of officers ceremony on Saturday, Jan. 14, at 1 p.m.

Officers from Columbia, Fort Worth and Dallas lodges will be installed that day.

– Reporter

Members of Dallas and Columbia lodges volunteered at the North Texas Food Bank on Oct. 22 in observance of Make a Difference Day.

Vineta to celebrate holidays with dinner Dec. 1 SAN ANTONIO – Vineta Lodge will celebrate the holidays with a ham dinner on Dec 1. Call Ruth Bailey at 602-5147 if you will be able to attend.

Members are asked to bring canned goods for donation to a food bank in the San Antonio area.

Members will gather on Dec 21 for a social. They will play games at 10:30 a.m. and then have lunch.

Thanks go to everyone who helped with games and served refreshments at St. Francis Nursing Home in observance of Make a Difference Day. The 2017 officers were elected at the November meeting and will be Debbie Jordan, president; Emily Roberts, vice president; Ruth Bailey, financial secretary; Yvonne Anderson, Finance Committee member; and Pauline Stout, trustee.

The lodge extends its sympathy to the family of Maria Hoyer, a member for 55 years; Mary Rose Meurer, a member for 32 years; Nora Spencer, a member for 65 years; Barbara Wood, a member for 57 years; and Rita Woodward, a mem-

Make a Difference Day volunteers at St. Francis Nursing Home were Vineta Lodge members, from left, Ruth Bailey, Margaret Crosby, Gladys Garrett, Emily Roberts, Frances Sultenfuss, Irene Kace and Beth Byron.

Celebrating birthdays in November were Vineta Lodge members Frances Bara, left, and Cecilia Padalecki.

ber for 51 years.

Welcomed as a new member was Lorelai Marie Bradley.

Attendance award winners were Mary Ann Pintaric,

Yvonne Anderson, Dorothy Wille and Rita Ristow.

Split-the-pot winner was Lorene Kreusel.

On Make a Difference Day, Ruth Bailey, left, visits with Dorothy Wahne, a resident of St. Francis Nursing Home, while Emily Roberts, right, admires her 60-year pin. Her daughter Margaret Crosby looks on. Sister Wahne has been a member since Sept. 6, 1956.

Flatonia party on Dec. 7 FLATONIA – Flatonia Lodge will hold its Christmas party at Robert’s Steakhouse on Dec. 7 beginning at 6 p.m.

The lodge welcomes two new members.

Agent Mary K. Seifert recently attended the Leadership Summit in Brenham.

Recently celebrating birth-

days were Mary Taylor, Mary K. Seifert and Helen Steinhauser.

Beverly and Kenneth Ponder recently celebrated an anniversary.

Mary K. Seifert won the door prize that she donated back to the lodge.

– Helen Steinhauser

December 2016 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 25

Brenham welcomes new member in October BRENHAM – Brenham Lodge welcomed a new member, Michelle L. Hajovsky, at the Oct. 14 meeting.

Thank you notes were read from the volunteer fire departments that each received a $100 donation. They are Prairie Hill/Rocky Hill, Washington, Chappell Hill, Berlin/Mill Creek/Zionsville and Gay Hill/ Mound Hill/Cedar Hill.

Pearlie and Richard Hanath thanked the lodge for the memorial donations, food and prayers they received following the passing of their son, Eric.

The Cheer Committee sent get-well cards to Gerdine Blome, Joyce Marburger and Nelson Randermann.

Celebrating birthdays at the October Brenham Lodge meeting were, from left, Burney Keilers, Herbert Zwahr, Mamie Lorenz, Jeanette Preuss, Cleo Jaeger, Bert Jaeger and Barbara Haar.

Brenham Lodge members Minnie Mae and Nolan Nitsche recently celebrated 69 years of marriage.

Hanath; to Deborah Lehrmann following the passing of her uncle, Joe Read; to Adolph Schaefer following the passing of his sister-in-law, Mildred

Breedlove, and his brother-inlaw, Henry Sefcik; and to Amy Dwayne and Nancy Hintz following the passing of their uncle, Larry Hartmann.

Sympathy cards were sent to Richard and Pearlie Hanath following the passing of their son, Eric, as well as to his uncle and aunt, Bennie and Gloria

Special Representative Gary Falkenberg talked about the interest rates on annuities.

A steak and sausage supper was held Oct. 21. Charles and the Fabulous Four provided the music.

The hall rental fee was set at $450 for day or night, dance or no dance.

President Jeanette Preuss thanked Herbert and Gloria Zwahr, Bert and Cleo Jaeger and Nolan and Minnie Mae Nitsche for providing drinks before the meal.

Nina Runge and Shirley Ganske prepared a meal of meat loaf, lima beans, carrots and potatoes and Evelyn Harmel and Gloria Zwahr served tea.

– Lena Mae Goessler

Boerne members to meet for lunch on Dec. 2

BOERNE – Boerne Lodge No. 25 will meet Friday, Dec. 2, at 12 noon at Kronkosky Place. Lunch reservations must be made in advance by calling the Rainbow Senior Center at 830-249-2114 before 9 a.m. the day of the meeting. Members are asked to bring a snack or appetizer to share.

All lodge members are encouraged to attend because the 2017 officers will be elected as well as the lodge’s two delegates to the Grand Lodge Convention to be held in May in San Marcos.

The Humanitarian Award will be presented.

The lodge met Nov. 4 and

welcomed 12 new junior members. They are Blythe Blomquist, Kaleb Stehling, Briell May, Macy LaFon, Zoe Howell, Logan Maurin, Alea Simmons, Avery and Riley Scribner, Kinsley and Riley Korczynski and Keeleigh Durr.

Grand President/CEO Buddy Preuss spoke briefly about the changes to the governance structure of the Grand Lodge that he feels are necessary for the betterment of the organization.

Guest speakers Annette Bourgeois and Hillary Reininger from the Kendall County Extension Office talked about how the Extension Service strives to serve a diverse population of ranchers,

Highland Lakes meets Dec. 4 HIGHLAND HAVEN – The next meeting of Highland Lakes Lodge is Sunday, Dec. 4, beginning with social time at noon followed by the meeting at 1 p.m. The meeting will be held at the Highland Haven Community Center, 118 Blackbird Dr. The 2017 officers will be elected along with a delegate

to the Grand Lodge Convention in May. Comfort Lodge will host the installation of officers on Jan. 15.

Ted and Betty Winder have volunteered to bring a ham for the holiday meal to be served after the meeting. Members are asked to bring a side dish or dessert.

– Reporter

landowners, commuters and small business people. The mission is to provide quality and relevant educational services to the people of Kendall County.

Core service areas are agriculture, family and consumer sciences, natural resources and 4-H and youth development.

Marilyn Vogt reported that she attended the Continuing Education Workshop for agents in Comfort in October.

Members are sending getwell wishes to lodge President Alice Quinn Congratulations to Harvey and Marilyn Vogt on their 51st wedding anniversary.

– Barbara D’Spain

Kay Caldwell receives her 60-year membership pin from Grand President Buddy Preuss during the November meeting of Boerne Lodge. Sister Caldwell lives in Boerne and has been a member since March 16, 1956.

Prinz Solms to hold party Dec. 11 BULVERDE – Prinz Solms Lodge will hold its Christmas party Sunday, Dec. 11, at 2 p.m. at the Bulverde Community Center. There will be food, drinks and maybe Santa will be there. Spring Branch Lodge will host the event this year.

A short meeting was

held Nov. 4 and included the election of officers.

Most remain the same. The new coordinator positions were appointed as follows: communications, Clifton Klabunde; youth, Doug Saathoff; membership, Audrey Stratemann; and community, Jackie Oldfield.

The prize winners were Irene Scholz, Jackie Oldfield, Audrey Stratemann, Will Laubach and Clifton Klabunde.

Everyone enjoyed the baked chicken, salad and brownies provided by Audrey Stratemann and Jackie Oldfield’s apple pie.

– Clifton Klabunde

Page 26 – Hermann Sons Life – December 2016

Deanville recognizes membership pin recipients

DEANVILLE – Deanville Lodge congratulates its 50year and 60-year membership pin recipients. Grand Vice President-Investments Harry Werland presented pins during the October meeting.

The lodge’s Humanitarian Award recipient is Alice Krobot. She is a member of the First United Church, the St. Joseph Hospital Auxiliary and is the manager of the Christian Care Store. She was a member of the Lions Club and volunteered at the Caldwell Chamber of Commerce office. The award will be presented during the December Christmas party.

In observance of Make a Difference Day, the lodge made a monetary donation and presented food to the Elizabeth Lutheran Church in Caldwell to help support its efforts to feed the hungry. Donations also were made to St. Joseph Manor and the Caldwell Christian Care Store.

The election of officers and a delegate to the 2017 Grand Lodge Convention were scheduled for the November meeting.

A fund-raiser was held recently to benefit Brazos Valley Hospice. Lisa McNair was in attendance to accept the donation.

President Blinka thanked all who helped deliver beverages to and from the Deanville Volunteer Fire Department’s annual fund-raiser.

Lodge members took part in the trunk-or-treat party

Fifty-year membership pins were presented at the October meeting of Deanville Lodge. Pictured are, from left, recipients Lonnie Supak, a member since Dec. 1, 1966; Sheila Bartek, a member since Oct. 1, 1966; and Bennie Jones, a member since April 25, 1966; lodge President Donnie Blinka and Grand Vice PresidentInvestments Harry Werland.

Deanville Lodge Vice President Thomas Krenek presents a Make a Difference Day contribution to Elizabeth Lutheran Church Pastor Richard Brunk Jr. on behalf of the lodge. A market basket of food items and a monetary donation was given to the church’s food pantry for the needy in Burleson County.

Deanville Lodge President Donnie Blinka presents a check to St. Joseph Manor of Burleson County in observance of Make a Difference Day. hosted by St. John’s Lutheran Church at the Deanville Volunteer Fire Station. Booths were set up with spooky decorations. There was food and games.

Members stood in a moment of silence in memory of Anton Lehman. He was an active member while he was able. He held many officer positions.

Members approved building repairs including changing all

the ceiling lights.

Bennie Jones was wished a Happy Birthday.

Tammy Jones provided prizes in October and Joyce Krenek in November.

Everyone enjoyed sandwiches, chips, dips and a cake decorated to honor the pin recipients.

Meetings are held every last Sunday of the month at 2 p.m.

– Viola Bartek

Deanville Lodge recently held a fund-raiser to benefit Brazos Valley Hospice. Pictured is President Donnie Blinka presenting the proceeds to Lisa McNair.

Old Glory elects officers at November meeting

Needville will meet on Dec. 4

OLD GLORY – Old Glory Lodge will meet Sunday, Dec. 4, beginning at 4 p.m. A potluck meal will be served.

Agent Diane Smith from Abilene spoke at the November meeting.

Roy Letz of Rule is now a 70year member. He joined on Dec.

NEEDVILLE – Needville Lodge will meet Dec. 4 at the Needville Fire Station. Lunch will be served.

Officers for 2017 will be elected. Contact Agent Chris Stoeltje at 979-559-6127 if you are interested in serving.

– Reporter

1, 1946.

Don and Pat Pyron and Gary Ender were reported to be on the sick list.

Officers were elected and will be president, Doug Vahlenkamp; vice president, Keith Corzine; secretary/treasurer, Verlene Corzine; trustee, Marvin

Vahlenkamp; and Finance Committee member, Chub Richards.

Betty Weise was appointed guide and Anita Dozier was appointed reporter.

Celebrating birthdays were Diane Smith and Keith Corzine.

Herbert Vahlenkamp won the door prize.

Following the meeting the group enjoyed games and a meal of turkey prepared by Sister Corzine and dressing prepared by Anita Dozier along with lots of side dishes and desserts provided by other members.

– Reporter

December 2016 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 27

Austin Lodge plans Christmas party for Dec. 4 AUSTIN – Austin Lodge will hold its Christmas party on Sunday, Dec. 4, beginning at 2 p.m.

Each member is asked to bring a gift suited for either a man or woman valued at $5-$10. There will be a drawing and each member who brought a gift will receive one. Members also are asked to bring sandwiches, snacks and desserts.

New members were wel-

comed at the meeting on Nov. 6. They are Bonnie Hance, Rhys Jowers, Sela Jowers and Alice Jowers.

The 2017 officers will be president, Ed Kurtz; vice president, Billy Lindsey; corresponding secretary, Pat Spradling; financial secretary, Billie Harris; and financial trustees, Howard Anderson, Jim Spradling, Mary Shugart and Katrina Spradling.

Appointed officers will be communications coordinator, Betty Kurtz; youth coordinator, Katrina Spradling; membership coordinator, Clarence Stark; and community coordinator, Kimberly Lindsey.

Delegates to the 2017 Grand Lodge Convention will be elected at the December meeting. The convention will be held in San Marcos May 1-3, 2017. If

you are interested in being a delegate, plan to attend this meeting.

Edna Weigelt won the attendance award and Pat Spradling received the kitty.

Clarence Stark, Fred Weber and Mary Shugart won the other door prizes.

After the meeting, fajitas and all the trimmings were served.

– Reporter

Celebrating November birthdays at the Austin Lodge meeting were Betty Kurtz, left, and Pat Spradling.

Cat Spring plans holiday meal CAT SPRING – Cat Spring Lodge will hold its annual Christmas party on Thursday, Dec. 8. A turkey and dressing dinner will be served. Members are asked to bring side dishes or desserts.

Membership pins will be presented as will the Humanitarian Award.

In lieu of a gift exchange, donations will be accepted for the Sealy Pregnancy Resource Center. The lodge also will make a $50 donation. The donations will be used to provide teaching materials.

The lodge met Sept. 8 with

members enjoying a soup and sandwich meal. Marsha Tipp and Loyce Pacher provided the soups and members provided sandwiches and desserts. Pastor Robert Sorensen of Phillipsburg Lutheran Church showed slides and spoke of his recent trip to Istanbul, Turkey and to Greece following Paul’s travels.

He saw the ruins of the city of Philippi and the remains of a road were the indentations of chariot wheels are still visible.

He also referenced the Book of Acts in which Luke record-

ed the journeys.

A donation will be sent to Pastor Sorensen’s discretionary fund.

The current officers were reelected and will serve again in 2017.

A greeting card was sent to Bernice Reibenstein.

Marsha Tipp and Pat Klotz were celebrating birthdays.

Marsha and Randall Tipp recently celebrated their 33rd wedding anniversary.

Delores Foyt would have won the door prize if she had been in attendance.

– Pat Klotz

Pastor Robert Sorenson is welcomed to the September Cat Spring Lodge meeting by John Klotz and Jaxon Herring.

Kirby Lodge will donate gifts, cash to Boysville KIRBY – Kirby Lodge will hold its Christmas party on Sunday, Dec. 4, starting with a social hour at 1 p.m.

Members are reminded to bring unwrapped gifts or cash donations for Boysville. The children served are ages 0 to 21.

Members enjoyed a meal featuring fried chicken, side dishes and desserts prior to the November meeting.

The 2017 officers were elected and will be president, James McQuatters; vice president, Samantha Schulmeier; financial secretary/treasurer, Tammy Haecker; correspond-

ing secretary/communications coordinator, Angela Netherton; and trustee, Carroll Gloor.

The 2017 Grand Lodge Convention delegates were elected and will be James McQuatters, Samantha Schulmeier, Tammy Haecker and Lillian Brietzke. The alternates are Judy Schulmeier and Carol Eardley.

President McQuatters talked about the organization’s new Mission Statement. Members discussed some of the changes to signs that will need to be made. The large outside sign, the sign on the building and several inside will need to be removed and replaced.

The city of Kirby will need to be contacted about street signage.

The date for the the bus trip to Lake Buchanan for the Vanishing River Cruise to see the eagles nesting has been set for Jan. 14. Kirby Lodge members will pay $45 per person and any non-members and members of other lodges will pay $75 per person. This will include the bus trip to and from Kirby, the boat ride and lunch on the boat. The bus that is reserved holds 50 people and is handicap accessible but Sister Netherton will need to know what type of access is needed.

The bus will leave the hall at 5:30 a.m. The boat ride starts at 8:30 a.m. The bus will leave Lake Buchanan for the return trip at 1:30 p.m. Contact Sister Netherton at 210-831-1293 with questions and to make reservations no later than Dec. 4 or at the Christmas party.

Money will be due by Jan. 2 at the monthly lodge meeting.

Welcomed as new members were Daxton Steel Speirs and Ellie June Moloney.

Members mourned the passing of George F. Shelton and Wayne J. Davis Agent Judy Schulmeier reported that the annuity rates

have decreased slightly but are still competitive.

Clarence Lyssy is temporally in a nursing home.

Celebrating birthdays were Joey Fisher, David Eardley, Juanita Luensmann and Linda Gloor.

Taking home leftover chicken were Joey Fisher, Linda Lambrecht, Juanita Luensmann, Samantha Schulmeier, Linda Muehlstein, Linda Gloor and Lillian Brietzke.

Split-the-pot winners were Henrietta Lowak, Irvin Schulmeier, Juanita Luensmann and Judith Schulmeier.

– Reporter

Page 28 – Hermann SonS Life – December 2016

Bandera County holds appreciation dinner BANDERA – Bandera County Lodge members enjoyed dinner at the Two Step Restaurant on Sept. 11.

This was the lodge’s annual appreciation dinner for members who have worked hard all year to make the lodge a success.

Present were Ken and Susan Hillje, Pam and Allan Biering, Kathleen and Gary Reile, Paul and President Eileen Heath, Joe and Beverly Gagliardi, Jack and Sandy Trenkelbach and Lee Fields.

The next meeting was held Oct. 16 at the home of Eileen and Paul Heath. This was the

last meeting there as the Heaths have sold their lake house.

Future meetings will be held at the home of Gary and Kathleen Reile in Lakehills.

Six new members were welcomed. They are Presley A. Binnert, Sara H. Porter, Ella R. and Josie C. Vollmer, Karlee A. Hamilton and Addison R. Lee. Joe Gagliardi will be the lodge’s delegate to the Grand Lodge Convention in May. Emily Brown is the new instructor for the Bandera County School of Dance. A fund-raiser is being planned.

The lodge’s Christmas party

will be held Sunday, Dec. 4, at 2 p.m. at the Pipe Creek Fire Department.

The dance classes will perform. The lodge will provide sandwiches, chips and drinks.

The dance parents are asked to bring desserts. Santa will be there.

Vice President Joe Gagliardi will receive the lodge’s Humanitarian Award.

All current officers agreed to serve again in 2017.

Allan Biering won the attendance prize.

Pizza and salad were served after the meeting.

– Susan Hillje

Members of Bandera County Lodge gather for a group photo at the October meeting. This will be the last time the lodge meets at the home of Paul and Eileen Heath. They have sold their lake house. Future meetings will be held at the home of Gary and Kathleen Reile in Lakehills.

Moulton welcomes new member

Edelweiss-Magnolia donates Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge recently made a donation to Houston’s Friends of Scouting program. Jerry Ziemnicki, left, presents the $2,000 donation to Norm Revis. The program helps disadvantaged boys participate in the Boy Scout program.

Coupland to host reception COUPLAND – Coupland Lodge will host a reception honoring the Coupland Fire Department on Sunday, Dec. 4, at 2 p.m. at the Coupland Fire Station.

A barbecue meal will be served. All members are encouraged to attend.

The department will be presented with more than $2,000

in donations from Coupland Lodge, the local bank and Matching Funds from the Home Office.

The lodge raised more than $1,000 during its recent Matching Funds bake sale.

The bank donated $500 and the Home Office contributed $500 in Matching Funds.

– Reporter

MOULTON – Moulton Lodge welcomed new member Hattie Cinadr at the Oct. 12 meeting.

Members voted to make a $100 donation to LAMBS. A sympathy card was sent to the Emil Zmeskal family and get-well cards were sent to Adela Beran and Anton Billimek.

The lodge is collecting toys for the Blue Santa program.

In August, the lodge hosted a dinner for local police officers and their families in observance of Make a Difference Day. Members enjoyed a meal of pork steaks with sides. At the November meeting, everyone enjoyed chicken noodle soup and chicken salad sandwiches.

– Reporter

Moulton Lodge members celebrating birthdays in October were, from left, Kathleen Schacherl, Justin Anderle and Allyne Chapman.

Washington presents pins Three members of Washington Lodge receive their 60-year membership pins from Special Representative Gary Falkenberg, left. They are Arnold, John and Don Roese. Brother Arnold joined on Feb. 19, 1956.

The other two have been members since Jan. 17, 1956.

December 2016 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 29

Cibolo Lodge will hold Christmas party Dec. 11 CIBOLO – Cibolo Lodge will hold its Christmas party Sunday, Dec. 11, at the Schertz Community Center, 1400 Schertz Parkway. Tickets will be available until Dec. 1.

The meal will be baconwrapped chicken, green beans, potatoes and an optional salad. There will be lots of desserts from which to choose since everyone will be bringing their favorite dessert to share.

Contact Joy Brown at 210289-6622, Sherry Rakowitz at 210-913-2402 or Tracy Campos at 210-860-6675 for tickets.

The 50/50 cash prize drawing will be held and there will be gift drawings, door prize giveaways and presents or gift cards for the children.

Members are asked to bring non-perishable items for donation to the Randolph Area Christian Assistance Program.

The November meeting was held at Christ the King Lutheran Church in Universal City.

Dorothy Schneider brought the Hermann Sons Life newspaper she had received that morning. Everyone’s feedback on the new layout and other changes was positive.

Welcomed as a new junior member was Connor Thomas Williams.

A second reading was held on the proposal to raise the dues for members from 35 per month to $1 or $12 per year for adults and from 35 cents to 50 cents per month or $6 per year for juniors. The final reading and vote will be held at the Jan. 5 meeting.

On Friday, Oct. 21, members Mary Ann Gray and Joy Brown delivered blankets, scarves, and crocheted items to Silvertree Nursing Home in Schertz in observance of Make a Difference Day.

Mary Ann Gray and Joy Brown, not pictured, delivered blankets, scarves and crocheted items to Silvertree Nursing Home in Schertz on behalf of Cibolo Lodge. Members donated the items in observance of Make a Difference Day.

Fay Fey and Alvin Schulz celebrated their November birthdays at the Cibolo Lodge meeting.

A ham dinner was served with the side dishes and desserts that members provided.

Dawn Bierstedt’s cabbage was named best side dish. Nell Shepherd’s upside down fruit cake took top honors for desserts. The prize for the best

would have won the special prize drawing but she was not present. The prize amount increases to $31 for the next meeting.

Members played games to end the evening.

– Tracy Campos

homemade cookie went to Sherry Rakowitz for her Snickerdoodles.

Attendance prizes went to Gail Gray and Mary Ann Gray.

The junior attendance prize winner was Brenley Bierstedt.

Penny Delane Compton

Gay Hill to host officer installation GAY HILL – Gay Hill Lodge will hold a regular monthly meeting on Thursday, Dec. 1.

The lodge will host the district installation of officers on Jan. 15. The social time will begin at 11 a.m. A chicken fried steak lunch will be served at 12 noon and the installation will follow.

The officers for 2017 will be

Stanley Klekar, president; David Roehling, vice president; Shonda Ziese, treasurer; and Julie Fischer, corresponding secretary.

The pork steak fund-raiser held in October was a success.

At the November meeting, Special Representative Gary Falkenberg gave a report on all the proposed changes to be

voted on at the Grand Lodge Convention in May. The Cheer Committee will send get-well cards to Doris Penkert and Wilford (Peanut) Gaskamp. A sympathy card will be sent to Karen Vaughn.

The Bradley Fischer family served hot dogs with all the trimmings.

– Reporter

Celebrating special occasions at the November meeting of Gay Hill Lodge were, from left, Leroy and Gladys Hodde, a November anniversary; Shonda Ziese and Doris Roehling, November birthdays; and Ruth Ganske, an October birthday.

Kerrville party on Dec. 1

Twin Sisters meets Dec. 4

KERRVILLE – Kerrville Lodge will hold its annual Christmas party on Thursday, Dec. 1, in the event room at Buzzie’s BBQ located at 213 Schreiner St. in Kerrville.

The meal will be brisket and sausage, beans, potato salad, cole slaw and peach cobbler.

There will be door prizes and a short business meeting along with good fellowship.

The invitations have been

TWIN SISTERS – Twin Sisters Lodge will meet Sunday, Dec. 4. Games will be played.

Helen M. Knoll will provide the ham, Marilyn Weidman will bring the macaroni and cheese, Georgia Hartmann will furnish the bread and coleslaw and Gertrude Hartman and Karen Steiger will bring sweet potatoes. Tanja Tomlinson will provide the dessert.

mailed. Call the number on the invitation for more information.

The 2017 meetings will be held on Feb. 1, April 5, June 7, Aug. 2, Oct. 4 and Dec. 1 (Christmas party).

They will be held in the Wells Fargo Bank Community Room, 301 Junction Highway, Kerrville, unless otherwise noted.

– Juanice Grona

At the Oct. 2 meeting, members made plans to host the installation of officers ceremony on Jan. 8.

Vice President Marcus Ethridge was named the Humanitarian of the Year for 2016.

Stan Steiger was recognized for his November birthday.

Karen Steiger won the door prize.

– Reporter

The Fischer family hosted the November meeting of Gay Hill Lodge. Pictured are, from left, Patsy Fischer, Bradley Fischer and Julie Fischer.

Page 30 – Hermann Sons Life – December 2016

Rosenberg-Richmond celebrates 50th anniversary ROSENBERG – RosenbergRichmond Lodge will meet Dec. 12. Chicken fried chicken and chicken fried steak will be served. Dessert will be furnished.

Members are asked to bring items for Helping Hands.

Games will be played.

The lodge celebrated its 50th anniversary on Nov. 14 at the Rosenberg Civic Center with 78 members and guests in attendance.

Raymond Schmidt brought in the flag and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited. All veterans were asked to stand and were thanked for their service.

The Humanitarian Award was presented to Lloyd and Marjorie Engelhardt. They help deliver meals for Meals on Wheels and are active in their church.

Loyce Anderson gave a history of the lodge. She talked about the various events the lodge has celebrated in the past 50 years. The lodge was chartered on May 1, 1966, with 42 members and has grown to 443 members.

Grand Vice President-Secretary/Treasurer Mary Beam presented 50-year pins to Edna Loesch, Larry Loesch and Loyce Anderson, all members since May 1, 1966; Edwin Anderson, a member since Sept. 15, 1963; and Eppie Kostak, a member since June 12, 1966.

Sister Beam congratulated

Members of Rosenberg-Richmond Lodge received their 50-year membership pins at the November meeting. Pictured with Grand Vice President-Secretary/Treasurer Mary Beam, left, and lodge President Calvin Lamensky, right, are Loyce and Edwin Anderson, Eppie Kostak and Larry and Edna Loesch.

Lloyd and Marjorie Engelke, center, received the Humanitarian Award for Rosenberg-Richmond Lodge at the November meeting. Making the presentation were committee members, from left, Loyce Anderson, Margie Orsak and Joyce Lamensky.

Celebrating November birthdays at the Rosenberg-Richmond Lodge meeting were, from left, Isabel Medina, Sharon Hedt, Ruth Tappe, Calvin Lamensky, Joyce Lamensky, Raymond Negrete and Cipriana Negrete.

Rosenberg-Richmond Lodge celebrated its 50th anniversary on Nov. 14. Grand Vice President-Secretary/Treasurer Mary Beam was welcomed to the celebration by lodge President Calvin Lamensky, left, and Rosenberg City Councilman Bill Benton.

the lodge for its 50th anniversary. She quoted from the speech that Grand President Fritz Schilo gave at the dedication of the lodge in 1966.

He said, “May your lodge grow and prosper and be an example for others to follow.”

The lodge will donate $100

in groceries to the Channel 13 Food Drive on Dec. 9. Some members will help with collecting the food.

Malcolm and Elaine Krause, Lloyd and Marjorie Engelhardt, Otto and LaVerne Tiemann and Mary Beam donated the door prizes.

Joyce Lamensky, Johnnie Zak, Bill Benton, Delbert Wendt and Ella Brown won attendance prizes.

Marjorie Engelhardt reported that get-well cards were sent to Edna Loesch and Dorothy Klobedans.

A catered meal of turkey,

dressing and vegetables was served. Members provided the desserts.

Raymond and Evelyn Schmidt and W. Lee and Sharon Hedt were in charge of the kitchen. Margie Krenek gave the blessing.

– Reporter

Corpus Christmas party Dec. 4 CORPUS CHRISTI – Corpus Christi Lodge will hold its Christmas party Sunday, Dec. 4, beginning at 4 p.m. at Southern Charm.

Members are asked to call any agent in the Corpus Christi area to make a reservation.

Members gathered Nov. 7 at the Chicken Shack for a

business meeting.

The lodge received a thankyou note from the Breast Cancer Foundation for its $200 donation made in honor of two of its member.

Cindy Hafemeister reported that there are 64 students enrolled in the Corpus Christi School of Dance.

Officers for 2017 will be

president, Frank Brandon; vice president, Paul Hood; recording secretary, Brittny McPheeters; financial secretary, Joann Hood, trustee, Megan Hunt; and Finance Committee members, Betty Ballard, Pearl Hunt and Ida Blankenship.

– Brittny McPheeters

Door prize winners at the November meeting of Corpus Christi Lodge were, from left, Kiersten Hunt, Jon Watson and Pat Riek.

Sister Hunt also was celebrating her birthday and Sister Riek also won the 50/50 cash.

December 2016 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 31

Plum presents pioneer pins at October meeting PLUM – Plum Lodge will hold its Christmas party Saturday, Dec. 3.

Wilburn Pargmann, Grand Finance Committee member, presented membership pins during the Oct. 10 meeting.

Eugene J. Wessels received his 70-year pin. He has been a member since April 20, 1946.

Lynidean Pohorelsky received a 60-year membership pin.

She has been a member since March 12, 1956. Linda S. Poncik and Wilbert V. Hoffmann, who are brother and sister, received their 50-year pins. Sister Poncik has been a member since Sept.

19, 1966. Her brother joined a few days later on Sept. 23, 1966.

Walter and Jackie Wessels gave an interesting presentation about Presley’s Power, a charity that was formed in memory of the Wessels’ granddaughter, Presley Belle Frank, after her courageous battle with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Presley lost her battle at the age of just 14 months.

Presley’s Power is a non-profit charity founded by Shelby Wessels McAnulty, Presley’s mother. Presley’s Power is determined to help bring joy to children and their families as they face the trials and tribulations of their battle with cancer and other blood disorders.

The goal of the program is to provide holiday and comfort baskets full of goodies to these

Plum Lodge presented a 70-year membership pin during the October meeting. Pictured are, from left, President Wilbert Gross, recipient Eugene J. Wessels and Wilburn Pargmann, Grand Finance Committee member.

A 60-year membership pin was presented at the October meeting of Plum Lodge. Pictured are, from left, President Wilbert Gross, recipient Lynidean Pohorelsky and Wilburn Pargmann, Grand Finance Committee member.

Plum Lodge presented 50-year membership pins in October. Pictured are, from left, recipient Wilbert V. Hoffmann, lodge President Wilbert Gross, recipient Linda S. Poncik and Wilburn Pargmann, Grand Finance Committee member.

Plum Lodge observed Make a Difference Day by donating to Presley’s Power. Pictured are, from left, President Wilbert Gross, Presley’s grandmother, Jackie Wessels, Treasurer Wallace Hobratschk, Secretary Charleen Koopmann and Walter Wessels, Presley’s grandfather.

children during their fight for their lives.

After the presentation, members agreed to make a donation to this cause in observance

of Make a Difference Day. Lynidean and Jimmy Pohorelsky celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary on Oct. 19.

George A. Eilert would have won the progressive prize but he was not at the meeting.

Mary Pargmann and Myrtle Harbers won the lodge’s door

prizes.

Prior to the meeting, everyone enjoyed soups and stews and desserts.

– Verlene R. Hobratschk

Weldon and Perlie Klaus, from left, and Robert and Doris Klingsporn prepared the chicken spaghetti meal served after the November meeting of Shelby Lodge.

Doris and August Voelkel celebrated their 59th wedding anniversary in November. They are members of Shelby Lodge.

Shelby Lodge plans turkey, dressing meal for Dec. 11 SHELBY – Shelby Lodge will hold its Christmas party on Sunday, Dec. 11, at Harmonie Hall beginning at 4 p.m. A turkey and dressing meal will be served. The 2016 Humanitarian Award will be presented.

At the November meeting, officers currently serving were re-elected for the coming year.

They are president, Roy Pieper;

vice president, Wendell Rudloff; and secretary/treasurer, Don Huebner.

Dennis Rudloff, Warren Meischen, Lollie Dittmar, Don Huebner and Myron Bruening won door prizes.

Kaylyn Brune would have won the progressive door prize but she was not in attendance.

– Reporter

Page 32 – Hermann SonS Life – December 2016

Columbia plans steak dinner Dec. 11

Louise Schuetze party Dec. 12 Janice Schwab, left, and Janel Abell celebrated birthdays in October. They are members of Louise Schuetze Lodge. The lodge will hold its Christmas party on Monday, Dec. 12, beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the Rathskeller. Members are asked to bring party foods and a gift valued at $10 for the gift exchange if they wish to participate. Vincent Schwab won the split-the-pot prize at the October meeting. The lodge celebrated Thanksgiving at the November meeting. Officers were elected and eight delegates were selected to represent the lodge at the Grand Lodge Convention next May. Linda Muehlstein won the attendance prize and Lori Todd won the split-the-pot cash.

DALLS – Greetings and salutations to all members and friends from Columbia Lodge.

Grand President Buddy Preuss attended the November meeting. He talked about the new branding campaign to bring this organization into more homes. He also talked about the possible consolidation or merger of the two Dallas lodges that is currently being discussed. A committee is meeting to work on the details. Members will be informed of any and all actions the committee takes.

Two new members were welcomed and the 2017 officers were elected. Bobby Wilbanks was re-elected president, Bob Portz was elected vice president and Stanley Whitehead was elected secretary-treasurer. Bob Sullivan will replace Glenn Marvin as trustee and the Home Association positions went to Lisa Byrn, Bobby Wilbanks and Mark Martinek.

The Finance Committee welcomes Kim Horton as a new member.

Thanks go to these people for agreeing to serve and to

those who have served in the past.

Special thanks go to Lisa Byrn and Lindsay Sexton for decorating and making the Hall so ultimately Halloweenish for the party. The Hall was hauntingly beautiful that evening and ghosts and goblins filled the rooms and danced and partied the night away.

There was food and candy and great fun for all ages.

The Christmas committee is gearing up for the holiday party on Saturday, Dec. 17.

Hope to see lots of people there around 6 p.m. to share in the holiday spirit. Members and friends are asked to bring a side dish or dessert to compliment the holiday feast. The lodge will furnish the turkey and ham provided.

The party is open to members of both lodges.

The new POS system at the Hall was discussed at the November meeting. The lodges and the Home Association are aware of the changing environment that is Deep Elm and are attempting to be a part of the new while upholding

their traditions and heritage.

A lot of changes are occurring in the neighborhood and the Hall needs to be ready for the new era.

Thanks go to Bobby and Juliea Wilbanks for the turkey and dressing. Mrs. Butterworth provided the smashed potatoes and the Captain’s glazed carrots.

Thanks go to everyone who brought a side dish or dessert especially whoever it was that brought cookies, not enough of them for my taste, but they were heavenly and delicious.

Bring those to every lodge event and I will be your best friend.

More volunteers are needed to cook a meal for the lodge meetings, bring up new ideas for clothing or food drives, or whatever you like.

The next meeting will be held Sunday, Dec. 11, at 3 p.m.

It was rescheduled because of the Broadnax Christmas Show.

The traditional steak and potato dinner will be served. Those attending are asked to bring a side dish or dessert.

– Dave Moynihan

New Braunfels welcomes new junior NEW BRAUNFELS – New Braunfels Lodge will meet Sunday, Dec. 4, beginning at 3 p.m.

A catered meal will be served and membership pins will be presented.

At the Nov. 6 meeting, Elise Sanchez was welcomed as a new junior member.

Officers for 2017 were elected and will be Karen Harborth, president; Dorella Colbert, vice president; Virginia Vetter, secretary-treasurer; Jerome Vetter, trustee; and Michael Huebinger, Finance Committee member.

Appointed officers will be Tommy Daum, communications coordinator; Shirley Huebinger, youth coordinator; Violet Tanneberger, membership coordinator; and Sandra Guenther, community coordinator.

Delbert and Violet Tanneberger celebrated their 49th wedding anniversary in November. They are members of New Braunfels Lodge.

Nine delegates were elected to represent the lodge at the Grand Lodge Convention in May. They are Tommy Daum, Dorella Colbert, Michael Huebinger, Shirley Huebinger, Violet Tanneberger, Delbert

Tanneberger, Dennis Schwab, Leola Stolte and James Stolte.

The alternates are Ethan Colbert, Jolene Meuret and Sandra Guenther.

A resolution of respect was head in memory of Melvin Fetters.

Robert Vogel is home from rehab and taking it easy.

Attendance prize winners were Virginia Vetter, Karen Harborth, Leola Stole, Dorella Colbert, Dorothy Eickmann, Mary Jane Schwab, Eltha Ward, Shirley Huebinger, Jerome Vetter, Allan Weyel and Michael Stolte.

Everyone enjoyed the sausage furnished by the lodge and the side dishes and desserts provided by the members. Jerome and Virginia Vetter hosted the meal.

– Virginia Vetter

La Coste donates to pantry La Coste Lodge President Harvey Lee Kunze, left, presents a $50 donation to Adrin Fredrickson, manager of the Medina County Food Pantry in Hondo. The donation was made in observance of Make a Difference Day in October.

December 2016 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 33

Hondo Victory will celebrate Christmas at Dec. 14 gathering HONDO – Hondo Victory Lodge will celebrate Christmas on Wednesday, Dec. 14, at the Hermann Sons Restaurant.

Doors will open at 6 p.m. with the meal to follow.

Members are asked to note that this is not the lodge’s regular meeting night. For more information, call 830426-2847.

Officers were elected at the November meeting. They will be installed in January.

Betty Newman will be the lodge’s delegate to the Grand Lodge Convention in May. Several others volunteered to be alternates.

Thank-you notes were received from the Hal Jones American Legion Post No. 128, the Retirement Home and Boy Scout Troop No. 370 for donations recently made by the lodge.

Money was collected from the “Hugs from Home” jar and sent to the Home Office.

Grace Schmidt reported sending get-well cards to Lucille Moss and Mary Heiligman. A sympathy card was sent to the family of Martin Jesus DeLeon.

Sister Newman and Ouida Samford served refreshments.

Thirteen new members were welcomed at the Oct. 11 meeting.

They are Aubrielle Gloria Lopez, Riley Grace Bush, Olivia Gene Ontiveros, Jessi Quinn Koch, Shanell Elizabeth Rivera, Layla Nicole Obregon, Lacey Ann Steubing, Zita Hope Perez, Marisabella Faith Perez, Madalynn Grace Cox, Elizabeth Marie Rodriguez, Collette Joy Frankie and Amaris Fae De Los Santos.

Melinda Salmon sent a thank-you note for the money she received as part of the 2016 Graduate Drawing.

The lodge will join Hondo Lodge in putting up the Christ-

Pictured are birthday celebrants from Bexar Lodge. A celebration was held for them as part of the Oct. 30 meeting.

Bexar party set for Dec. 3 SAN ANTONIO – Bexar Lodge will hold its Christmas party and 100th anniversary celebration on Dec. 3 at 4 p.m. at 8793 Dietz Elkhorn Road, Fair Oaks Ranch. There will be activities for adults and juniors.

For more information, call Linda Wehmeyer at 590-1499.

Loraine Miller presents a donation to a Blessings in a Back Pack representative on behalf of Hondo Victory Lodge.

The quarterly meeting was held Sunday, Oct. 30, at the Wehmeyer home.

A celebration was held for those with birthdays in October, November and December.

Members enjoyed pizza, salad, cake and cupcakes.

– Reporter

Ellinger plans holiday party ELLINGER – Ellinger Lodge will hold its annual Christmas supper on Saturday, Dec. 3, at the Ellinger Chamber of Commerce Hall, located at Grover and West Colorado Sky streets. The social hour

will start at 5 p.m. followed by supper.

Call President Audrey Krenek at 979-249-3217 before Nov. 28 if you are planning to attend.

– Reporter

Celebrating November birthdays at the Hondo Victory Lodge meeting were, from left, Helen Boehme, Loraine Miller and Betty Newman. mas sign on Highway 90 for “Christmas in God’s Country.”

Donations were made to Blessings in a Back Pack and the Hondo Hal Jones American Legion Post No. 128 in observance of Make a Difference Day. The money in the Hugs from

Home jar was collected and sent to the Home Office.

“Happy Birthday” was sung to President Pat Saunier.

Loraine Miller and Debbie Payne served refreshments and members played several games of Pitch.

– Verlie May Nietenhoefer

Nagel pioneer receives pin Sharon K. Goebel receives her 60-year membership pin from Special Representative Gary Falkenberg. Sister Goebel, a member of Nagel Lodge, joined on Sept. 1, 1956.

Page 34 – Hermann Sons Life – December 2016

Converse party set for Dec. 11

Karnes City Lodge honors campers Peyton Harrell receives her cash prize and certificate from Karnes City Lodge President Vernon Fenner at the Oct. 11 meeting. Peyton was one of two campers honored that night. The campers talked about their experience and said they are looking forward to attending again in 2017.

Karnes City Lodge sponsored Adrianna Serna in the Miss Karnes City Pageant in September.

Adrianna was named third runner-up in the pageant that was held prior to the annual Lonesome Dove Fest. Adrianna is a member of the lodge.

Karnes City Lodge hosted a pizza party for its campers during the Oct. 11 meeting. The campers and their parents and siblings were guests of the lodge. Hayden Thompson is pictured with lodge President Vernon Fenner after he received his monetary gift and certificate.

Karnes City Lodge observed Make a Difference Day on Oct. 6 at the Bluebonnet Nursing Home. Members hosted a games party for the residents. Members taking part were Vernon Fenner, Mary Schulz, Betty June Polasek and Henrietta Fenner. They hosted a similar event for the residents at Karnes City Rehab on Oct. 27.

Betty Lum, left, and Margaret Jones were the door prize winners at the October meeting of Schwertner Lodge. of the previous meeting, Sister Schwertner congratulated Sister Rieger for a job well done as secretary for the past 18 years.

Larry Krueger and granddaughter Evelyn Whatley were welcomed as new members.

Paul Vogt plans Christmas party BOERNE – Paul Vogt Lodge will hold its Christmas party on Saturday, Dec. 10, beginning at 5 p.m. at the lodge hall.

All members are encouraged to attend to enjoy the food, fun and prizes.

Members will be asked to approve a change in the annual dues to $6 for adults and $3 for juniors.

– Reporter

Schwertner will hold party at Community Center SCHWERTNER – Schwertner Lodge will hold its Christmas dinner on Sunday, Dec. 11, beginning at 5 p.m. at the Schwertner Community Center. Call 254-527-4470 if you plan to attend so catering arrangements can be made.

The 2017 officers were elected when the lodge met in October. They will be president, Irene Schwertner; vice president, Margaret Jones; secretary, Mona Rieger; treasurer, Cynthia Gersbach; trustees, Randall Schwertner, Clarence Schuetze and Michael Hovatter; and Finance Committee members, Darrell Marek, Tommy Krueger and Lana Reese.

After she read the minutes

CONVERSE – Converse Lodge will hold its Christmas party on Sunday, Dec. 11, beginning at 2:30 p.m. at the GRASP Center in Converse.

The lodge will provide the meal and members are asked to bring desserts.

If you plan to attend, call Maxine Sullivan at 210-7238533.

– Reporter

Schwertner Lodge President Irene Schwertner, right, presents Larry and Ginger Krueger with their 100% Family pin.

The meal included hot dogs and Frito pie and desserts prepared by Randall and Irene

Schwertner and Gayle and Margaret Jones.

– Reporter

La Grange party at Riverside Cafe LA GRANGE – La Grange Lodge will hold its Christmas party Sunday, Dec. 4, at Riverside Cafe. Gift cards will be given as door prizes.

Officers are reminded that the installation ceremony will be held Jan. 15 and will be hosted by Ellinger Lodge.

Officers for 2017 were elected when the lodge met Nov. 10 at Riverside Café.

Agent Mary K. Seifert spoke about the Leadership Summit that was held in Brenham. She explained about the new governance structure that will be voted on at the Grand Lodge Convention and changes in the titles of some elected and appointed officers.

The lodge will be able to send one delegate to the Grand Lodge Convention in May 2017.

– Roselyn Vasut

December 2016 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 35

Agents Directory (alphabetized by area) Abilene Diane Marie Smith 325-665-2253

Corpus Christi Frank Brandon 361-241-5593

Adkins Alayna Menzer 210-413-0001

Pearl Hunt 361-241-0940

Roxy Pruski 210-667-1995 Austin Shirley Kuhen Faske 512-789-3975 Crystal Livingston 512-466-2433 Bandera Stephanie Brown 210-621-3891 Paul Heath, FIC 210-392-0760 Beeville H.H. Laechelin Jr. 361-358-1615 Bellville Robert Herridge 979-865-3702 Bernardo/Columbus Terrel Maertz 979-732-1727 Boerne/Fair Oaks Carl Behrendt 210-422-1159 Pam Poulk 210-753-2626 Boerne Lisa Rozacky 210-838-3306 Bryan Katherine Akin, FIC 979-823-8625 Caldwell Donnie Blinka 979-596-1309 Canyon Lake Sandra Duncan 830-905-3233 Castroville/La Coste Roger Bippert 210-737-4070 Castroville Glenford Boehme, FIC 210-219-9792 Cibolo/Schertz Judith Schulmeier, FIC 210-667-1938 Comfort Norma Bruns, FIC 830-995-3980 Merchant, Jean 830-995-3396

Greg Polasek 830-540-4812 Graham/Wichita Falls David Wolf 940-550-5202

Maxwell Darlene Bohmfalk 512-558-2773 Charles Croley 512-357-6638

Highland Lakes Jim Embrey, FIC 830-598-8156

McQueeney Stephen Weniger 830-743-2045

Hondo Stacy Saathoff 830-444-9160

Needville Chris Stoeltje 979-559-6127

Dallas Helen Tyson Brown 214-796-0668

Houston Anna Larie Keith 281-259-6337

New Braunfels Becki Carley 361-550-9358

Del Rio Pat Fritz, FIC 432-292-4483

Sarah Spencer 361-550-1883

Cecilia “CC” Gagliardi 830-620-1060

Gerald Ziemnicki 713-622-9001

Shirley Huebinger 830-822-1942

Huffman Rita Carson 281-235-4587

Rhonda Muehlstein, FIC 830-980-3162

Troylyn Sisneros-Gonzalez 361-232-7413 Cuero Laura Tiffin Wayne Tiffin 361-275-8421

Devine Cynthia Sultenfuss 210-219-6409 Dee Stricker 210-414-0293 Edna/Jackson County Sam Matlock 361-782-3206 El Campo Dennis Wigginton 832-278-9636 Floresville/Poth Beth Cutsinger 210-325-6667

Jourdanton Valerie C. Craig 830-769-3128 Valerie M. Vick 210-748-5598 Katrina Wiatrek 210-326-9505 Lillian Wiede, FIC 830-769-3481

Floresville Lynn Wiede 830-393-4660

Karnes City Russell Swize 830-780-4053

Fort Worth Sandra Jones, FIC 817-295-2666

Karnes City/Seguin Diane Terp 830-305-3564

Fredericksburg Todd Bierschwale 830-997-2130

Kerrville Mary Muehlstein 830-896-5750

Dennis Henke 830-997-5290

Kirby Angela Netherton 210-831-1293

George West Tracy Caron 361-449-0348 Georgetown Brad Klein, FIC 512-497-0678 Giddings Loretta Chilek, FIC 979-542-2806 Linda Kieschnick, FIC 979-542-5224 Richard Symons 979-451-0988 Gonzales Bobbie Polasek 830-672-6317

La Coste Tanya Crisp 830-985-9230 La Vernia Sharon Tanneberger, FIC 830-827-0526 Marlin Tanneberger, FIC 830-827-7229 Lubbock April Behnke 806-797-3585 Marion Lorene Bielke, FIC 830-420-2380

Tim Salge 830-625-4816 Nixon-Smiley Blake Janicek 830-582-1581 Orange Grove Paula Gebert 361-384-2375 Paige RaChelle Dube 512-740-3518 Pflugerville Julius Dubcak 512-272-8393 Port Lavaca Nancy Annette Walraven 361-552-9403 Priddy Ruth Witzsche, FIC 325-966-3757 Richmond Tanya Witcher 281-652-6606 Rockdale Judy Marie York 512-446-5914 Rosenberg Joyce Lamensky 281-342-5174 Round Top/Rutersville Linda Mattocks 512-736-9988 Rowena Kay F. Halfmann 325-442-4731 San Antonio Philip A. Abell 210-771-1213

Marketing Department Staff

210-527-9113 • 877-437-6266 • 888-839-7667

Grand Vice President-Marketing Tim Kolbe timk@hermannsonslife.org Markering Analyst Ana Vasquez, FLMI, AIRC, FIC anav@hermannsonslife.org Administrative Assistant Gladys Rowley gladysr@hermannsonslife.org Special Representatives: Dan Boenig - 210-705-1815 danb@texashermannsonslife.org Gary Falkenberg, FICF - 713-466-6069 • 713-899-4138 gfalken908@aol.com Alfred Stryk, FICF, LUTCF - 281-485-4095 alstryk@sbcglobal.net Teresa Saathoff - 210-276-0361 • 210-422-6996 tasaathoff@satx.rr.com Marilyn Vogt, FICF - 210-630-9874 marilynv@hermannsonslife.org Eulla May Krueger - 210-863-0546 • 830-985-3643 eullak@hermannsonslife.org Maria Elisa Ashati 210-863-2217 Ruth Bailey 210-602-5147 John Hoog 210-226-8801 Darlene Irwin 210-392-2649 Rayna Sue Irwin 210-710-7038 Clif Klabunde, FIC 830-980-4020 Valentin Lucero 210-725-6535 Jim McNeel 210-601-2097 Emma Moya 210-344-3935 Doug Saathoff 210-276-0361 Greg Sterner 210-363-0373

Seguin/San Antonio Carol Krauss, FIC 210-725-4106 Seguin Yolanda Gonzales 830-305-7445 Susan Perkovich 830-303-3496 Annette D. Roecker 830-832-0724 Tina B. Ynfante 210-859-1973 Smiley Diana P. Moreno 830-379-2244 Spring Branch Gloria Gass 830-885-4405 Lisa Lanphere 830-221-8128 St. Hedwig Dorothy Luensmann, FIC 830-914-3160

Veronica Trejo 210-710-0932

Stockdale Ronald Wiatrek 830-996-3005

San Marcos Janice Kuhen 512-393-1431

Victoria Jason Hybner 361-652-6924

Schulenburg/Weimar Mary K. Seifert 979-743-0312

Victoria/Yoakum Laura Thigpen 361-676-8307

Schwertner Irene Schwertner 254-527-4470

Yoakum Mary Koenig 361-293-1743

Sealy Joanie Griffin 979-398-0706

Yorktown Judy Wolf 361-564-2452

Page 36 – Hermann SonS Life – December 2016

Shining Stars Christmas Word Search Christmas Santa Bells Red Holiday Tree

Merry Christmas!

Gifts Green Happy Lights Snow Merry

Star Carol Reindeer Holly Candy Answers on Pg. 18

VIOLETTE YATES is a member of New Braunfels Lodge and she is in first grade. Her favorite food is spaghetti and her favorite TV show is “Rise of the Guardians.”

Violette has pets, Jingles, Pearl and Clio.

Christmas Crossword ACROSS 1. Famous snowman 4. What Santa travels in 8. Makes toys for Santa 9. Used to decorate a Christmas tree.

10. December 25 11. Hung by the chimney with care 12. What presents are left under DOWN 2. Reindeer with a shiny, red nose 3. Covers the ground on a white Christmas 5. Santa comes down this 6. Red and white hooked-shaped candy 7. Left under the tree Christmas morning 10. Left out for Santa 11. Jolly toy maker

You can be a Shining Star too! Just send us a photo of yourself (that we can keep) and fill out this form and send to: Hermann Sons Life, Laura Adams, P.O. Box 1941, San Antonio, TX 78297.

Name: Birthday: Home Phone: Daytime Phone: Address: City:

VIENNA YATES is a member of New Braunfels Lodge and she is in third grade. Her favorite food is French toast and her favorite TV show is “Pokemon.”

Vienna has pets, Jingles, Pearl and Clio. Her activities include soccer and archery.

Zip:

E-mail Address: Grade in school: Favorite Food:

Christmas Word Scramble

Pets: Favorite TV Show: Activities:

1. lelbs______________________________

7. gostinck___________________________

2. isentpiota_________________________

8. esokoci____________________________

It is OK with my parents that I am featured as a “Hermann’s Shining Star” in the Hermann Sons Life newspaper, website and any other advertising publications.

3. cleand____________________________

9. leves______________________________

Parent’s Signature:

4. gigabrndeer_______________________

10. tenessrp__________________________

5. tewhar____________________________

11. yalohid___________________________

6. edinerer___________________________

9. stranemon__________________________

I am a member of Certificate No.

Lodge.