SAN ANTONIO – We want to share some exciting updates regarding our facilities and the steps we’re taking to enhance the experience and well-being of our members.
Riverside and Hilltop Camps
Based on feedback from campers and their families, we recognize that Riverside Camp requires significant renovations to provide a quality experience for our campers and staff. In response, and to prioritize a positive camp experience, all 2025 summer
camp sessions will be held at Hilltop Camp. This relocation will allow us to focus on a long-term plan for maintaining and improving our camp facilities.
Also new this year, Camp will be open to non-members. Members will start registration in January, and we will open registration to non-members in March.
Retirement Home
Our three retirement home residents will be relocated to a new independent living retirement community in Comfort.
This decision comes as the current retirement home property is needing extensive renovations to ensure the continued comfort and safety of our residents. We are excited about the quality of the new retirement home accommodations. HSL will be working to identify and develop sustainable options for the current retirement home property. We understand there have been rumors about the potential sale of our Comfort properties, including the retirement home
and Riverside Camp. Rest assured, it is not our plan to sell any of these properties. While we are exploring all options to address the current needs of our facilities, our commitment remains with our members and the long-term value of Hermann Sons Life. We are fully dedicated to ensuring the safety, comfort, and enrichment of all our members and residents. We appreciate your support and look forward to a sustainable and bright future for HSL for generations to come!
Opt-in to receive printed newspaper
SAN ANTONIO – The Hermann Sons Life Newspaper will continue to be printed and mailed, but members must contact the Home Office and opt-in to stay on the mailing list.
Many of our members have indicated they no longer want to receive the printed copy of the Hermann Sons Life Newspaper by mail. Many read it on the Hermann Sons Life website, through our Facebook page or by the email option. By the time it is received in the mail, members say it is often thrown in the trash.
To be more ecologically responsible and less wasteful, members who want the mailed printed version are asked to contact the Home Office by Jan. 1, 2025.
We understand there are many members who do enjoy reading the printed version of the news-
paper and we are happy to continue mailing it to them.
To continue to receive the newspaper by mail, call 210-2269261 ext. 325 or 1-800-234-4124 ext. 325 or email: optin@hermannsonslife.org Members may also request to be added to the email list for the digital version of the newspaper. An email address must be provided.
There is no need to reach out to us again if you have already opted in.
Hermann Sons Life Camp registration will open in January! For Camp news from Executive Camp Director Ian Brassett, the schedule and more, see Pages 8-9.
USPS 242200
Periodicals Postage Paid at San Antonio, Texas Published Monthly by
HERMANN SONS LIFE
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
DIRECTORS
Kimberly Krueger, Chair
David Wolf, Vice Chair
David R. Noak
Stan Steiger
Laura Tiffin
Gerald Ziemnicki
OFFICERS
President and CEO
Robin Czarnek
Vice President of Operations and COO
Samantha Schulmeier Kelley
Vice President of Member Benefits
Cecily Kelly
Vice President of Sales
Teresa Saathoff
Stephen Prewitt
Edward J. Muehlbrad
Agnes Dreibrodt
Elizabeth Byron
Mary Beam
Sherry Rakowitz
Tammy Jones
Todd Marquardt
Pat Bushman
Steven Schellenberg
Harry Schriber
Ronald Wiatrek
Annette Roecker
Arthur R. Pfefferkorn MEMBER
Eulla Krueger
Shirley Faske
Cheryl Garcia
Bradley Klein
Angela Netherton
Joyce Kneupper
COMMITTEE
Judith Schulmeier
Gilbert Shelby
Pat Klotz
Together we can build a bright, sustainable future
By ROBIN CZARNEK President and CEO
It’s hard to believe another holiday season is upon us As the year winds down and the holidays begin, it’s a great time to reflect on the joys, challenges and opportunities 2024 brought our way
There are exciting changes coming for our campers and Retirement Home residents for 2025 We are looking forward to these changes and the improved experience they will bring for our members
We are so grateful for all of the fellowship we have shared with you thus far this year and are looking forward to more as we attend lodge parties with many of you We always try to attend different lodge parties each year and always look forward to making new friends with our members throughout Texas
As we look ahead to the holiday season and into 2025, we hope you’ll join us in supporting one another and continuing our mission of fostering financial security and lifelong connections . Together, we can build a bright, sustainable future for our members and members yet to come
Wishing all Hermann Sons
members and their families a blessed and joyful holiday season and a prosperous new year! AFA message
With the expiration of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act looming in 2025, fraternal organizations have been urged to reach out to their lawmakers to protect the tax-exempt status for fraternals 2025 is expected to be a year of considerable tax reform As discussions intensify, the future of key provisions in the tax law, including exemptions for non-profit fraternal groups, hangs in the balance .
The American Fraternal Alliance (AFA) has been working with fraternals to ensure that we remain in front of potential changes and ensure our lawmakers remember the vital role that fraternals play in their communities
To that end, the AFA recently hosted an Executive Summit in Washington, D C , where leadership from fraternals across the country joined together to speak with lawmakers and to show our appreciation for their past support for fraternals
We were teamed up and each met with our pre-designated group of senators and house representatives to present them
President and CEO Robin Czarnek, second from left, attended an Executive Summit of the American Fraternal Alliance (AFA) in Washington D.C. Sept. 16-18 and visited Capitol Hill on Sept. 17.
with a Fraternal Ally award, and we expressed our appreciation for past support and asked for their continued support .
My group met with the following legislators and their teams: Representative Jimmy Panetta of California; Representative Dan Kildee of Michigan; Senator John Thune of South Dakota; Senator Jim Risch of Idaho; Representative Bryan Steil of Wisconsin; and Representative Terri Sewell of Alabama
We will be reaching out to our Texas legislators to ask for their support in maintaining the taxexempt status fraternals hold
today, as well as to remind them of our role in the community We also encourage you to reach out to the lawmakers in your districts as well With the critical juncture we’re at, they need to hear from us now more than ever Ensuring our voices are heard will be essential in protecting the tax-exempt status that enables fraternals to do the great work we do in our community
Tommy Daum
Robert Prewitt
BUSINESS OPERATIONS COMMITTEE
Kerry Ginn
Anna Larie Keith
Charles Knibbe
Pat Spradling
Gary Falkenberg
David Lewis
Community Spotlight
Convoy of Hope provides help, hope when needed most
SPRINGFIELD, MO – In October, Convoy of Hope teams were in North Carolina and Florida where Hurricane Helene made landfall. Disaster response teams staged numerous distributions for survivors, providing them with food, water, hygiene kits, cleaning supplies and tarps. Additional truckloads of supplies were sent from Convoy’s World Distribution Center to North Carolina, Florida, Georgia, Tennessee and South Carolina to serve storm survivors in those states.
About Convoy of Hope
Convoy of Hope is a global, faith-based organization that serves vulnerable communities. By partnering with local churches, businesses, civic organizations, and government agencies, Convoy has strategically offered help and hope in more than 130 countries around the world. Since its founding in 1994, Convoy of Hope
has served 250 million people and counting.
Convoy of Hope was founded in 1994 by Hal Donaldson. His inspiration for starting the organization can be traced back to the many people who helped his family after his father was killed by a drunk driver in 1969. It is Convoy of Hope’s privilege to work with churches, businesses, government agencies, and other nonprofits to provide help to the impoverished, hungry, and hurting.
Convoy pledges to wisely steward entrusted resources by using every dollar to its fullest potential. When you link arms with Convoy of Hope to provide disaster relief, hurting people receive the help and hope they need to get back on their feet. Convoy of Hope is committed to helping as much as possible for as long as possible by:
• Distributing essential emergency supplies such as food, clean
water, hygiene items, and more.
• Providing long-term assistance, when possible, to help people rebuild and recover.
Response
Response efforts vary depending on the nature of a disaster. After a disaster, Convoy equips national, state, and local partners with information and resources they need to provide immediate help. Often, that takes the form of distributing relief supplies like food, clean water, and hygiene kits.
Recovery
Convoy of Hope’s goal is to help individuals and communities return to self-sustainability after a disaster. Depending on the need, Convoy organizes debris removal, leads cleanup efforts, distributes building materials, facilitates income generation projects, and conducts agricultural training. Each of these components help
Employee Spotlight
Blaylock new Member Benefits Representative
SAN ANTONIO – Haley Blaylock joined the Hermann Sons Life Member Benefits Department in September 2024.
As a Member Benefits Representative, she works closely with lodges, tracks monthly lodge reports and assists lodge officers.
A resident of Stockdale, Haley graduated from La Vernia High School. She was a customer service representative for more than four years and was an internet service scheduler before her employment at the Home Office.
“I have enjoyed learning about everything Hermann Sons Life has to offer,” Haley said. “I also have enjoyed getting to know my co-workers. Everyone has been so welcoming.”
Haley and husband Wyatt will celebrate their first anniversary in December and are expecting their first child in May 2025.
“I love to travel with Wyatt to different stock shows across the state and help families with their show cattle,” Haley said. “I also love to cook, bake and spend time outdoors.”
Events
EVERY THURSDAY – It’s Game Night every Thursday night at Hochheim-Prairie Lodge-Turner Hall in Yoakum. Games start at 7 p.m. Everyone is welcome. For more information, call 361-293-557.
Hermann Sons Life invites lodges and members to contribute to a collective donation to Convoy of Hope for the victims of the Helene and Milton hurricanes. Convoy is distributing food, water, and relief supplies to the areas hardest hit. Send donations to the Home Office at: Hermann Sons Life P.O. Box 1941, San Antonio, TX 78297-1941 Attention: Hurricane Relief
in the recovery process. In some situations, Convoy continues to work for months — or even years — to bring relief to those who are suffering.
To learn more about Convoy of Hope, visit convoyofhope.org
Information provided by convoyofhope.org
Editor/Communications Director Elaine Hernandez Soto 210-226-9261, ext. 279 email: elaines@hermannsonslife.org
All news articles and photographs should be mailed to: Editor
Hermann Sons Life, P.O. Box 1941, San Antonio, TX 78297-1941 or emailed to: elaines@hermannsonslife.org
Reports and photos can also be submitted online at hermannsonslife.org under Member Benefits, Officer Forms. The report deadline is the 10th of each month. For example, for the January issue, the deadline is Dec. 10.
EVERY THURSDAY – Bingo is held every Thursday night at Brenham Lodge. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., cards go on sale at 6:15 p.m. Games start at 7 p.m. and are usually over at 9:30 p.m. Open to public.
EVERY FRIDAY – Free live trivia at the San Antonio Home Association Rathskeller at 7 p.m. Get a team together or come solo. Prizes awarded.
Email events for publication to elaines@hermannsonslife.org
The Hermann Sons Life newspaper is an official publication of Hermann Sons Life. The management and editorial policy of the newspaper shall be in the hands of the President and CEO, and the President and CEO shall have the authority to appoint a member or members of Hermann Sons Life as editor and/or business manager thereof.
Haley Blaylock
Sales
An HSL policy can be the best gift to leave your family
By TERESA SAATHOFF
Vice President of Sales
Happy holidays from the Hermann Sons Life Sales Team!
Wishing you and your loved ones a season filled with joy, peace and prosperity. As we celebrate this special time of year, we are here to help you secure the gift of financial security and peace of mind.
When you are out doing last minute Christmas shopping and thinking of your News Year’s resolutions, please remember that purchasing life insurance or an annuity can be the best long-term gift to leave your family.
Protect Loved Ones:
Holidays often bring family gatherings, reinforcing how important it is to secure your loved ones’ future. Life insurance ensures they will have financial stability if anything happens to you.
Financial Planning for New Year’s Resolutions:
Many people set financial goals at the start of the year. Purchasing a life insurance policy or annuity aligns well with common resolutions to save more, prepare for retirement and build long-term wealth.
Sales Department hosts Friendsgiving for seniors
The Hermann Sons Life Sales Department hosted the First Annual Friendsgiving event for seniors on Tuesday, Nov. 19. Sales Team members (above) in attendance were, from left, Regional Manager David Guerrero Jr., Medicare agents Mica Lopez, Carol Lopez, Richard DeLeon, Gladys Rowley, Suzanne Saenz, Gloria Cerca and Vice President of Sales Teresa Saathoff. Gladys, on right, works the HSL table. "We were excited to partner with Gonzaba Medical Group, Scan and Spark Advisors. We had a great turnout at the Helotes Lodge, Braun Hall," Teresa said. Guests enjoyed lunch, a DJ, dancing, door prizes and turkey giveaways. The Hermann Sons Life Medicare Agents were all available to answer any questions.
Gifting Financial Security:
Life insurance or an annuity make a meaningful gift to children or grandchildren. Rather than material items, this gift helps protect their future by providing financial benefits over time.
Tax Benefits Before Year-End:
Income earned in annuities is tax-deferred, providing potential tax benefits as your plan for the upcoming tax season.
Prepare for Retirement and Estate Planning:
The end of the year is a good time to take stock of retirement
savings. Annuities can provide steady retirement income, and life insurance can be part of an estate plan to transfer wealth tax-efficiently to heirs. Peace of Mind for the Year Ahead:
Starting the new year with a life insurance policy or annuity in place can offer peace of mind, knowing you have taken steps to protect you and your family’s financial future.
Thank you for being a Hermann Sons Life member and here’s to a bright and promising new year!
Plum member wins gift card
The Sales Department is recognizing 11 more recommenders for the month of October. We appreciate the 180 members who have recommended 236 new members to Hermann Sons Life in 2024. The winner of a gift card for October is Annie Cook of Plum Lodge.
Congratulations to the following Recommenders:
Karin Boos
Annie Cook
Eldon Ehlers
Aleyna Gerlach (2)
Lailah Hernandez
Matthew Janysek
Carol Krauss
Mark Lee
Fernando Pineda (3)
Elizabeth Schweers
Calyb Voges
Ana Vasquez
Linda Mattocks
Ana Vasquez
Roxy Pruski
Judith Schulmeier
Laura Tiffin
Ana Vasquez
Christopher Naughton
Ana Vasquez
Gladys Rowley
Janice Kuhen
Teresa Saathoff Vice President of Sales
Agents Directory
Adkins
Roxy Pruski • 210-218-6204
Alice
Paula Gebert • 361-701-7527
Sheri McBryde • 361-876-6893
Austin
Allen Caldwell • 830-237-3217
Brad Klein, FIC • 512-497-0678
Gloria A. Cerca • 210-274-3137
Luiz Torres Mendez • 470-962-1174
Shannon Caldwell • 830-837-4535
Shirley Kuhen Faske • 512-789-3975
Bernardo/Columbus
Terrel Maertz • 979-732-1727
Boerne
Ana Vasquez, FIC • 210-569-4660
Darrell R. Steubing • 830-249-7745 or 830-446-9829
Pamela Poulk • 210-753-2626
Brenham
Gary Falkenberg, FICF • 713-466-6069
Bulverde
Debbie Allen • 210-326-9753
Javier Lara • 210-667-6889
Castroville
Glenford Boehme, FIC • 210-219-9792
Jacqulynn Herrmann • 210-275-0429
Laurie Steele • 210-414-4755
Michael Franke • 830-444-4877 or 361-290-3577
Reagan Haby Rogiers • 210-695-5588
Stephen Bonahoom • 210-695-5588
Cibolo/Schertz
Judith Schulmeier, FIC • 210-667-1938
Comfort
Ana Vasquez, FIC • 210-569-4660
Darrell R. Steubing • 830-249-7745 or 830-446-9829
Converse
Dan Boenig • 210-705-1815
Roxy Pruski • 210-218-6204
Corpus Christi
Paula Gebert • 361-701-7527
Sheri McBryde • 361-876-6893
Coupland
Brad Klein, FIC • 512-497-0678
Cuero
Laura Tiffin • 361-564-8141
Tracy Fuchs • 361-564-2250
Wayne Tiffin • 361-564-8144
Dallas Gilbert Shelby • 214-289-1815
Devine
Cynthia Sultenfuss, FIC • 210-219-6409
Laurie Steele • 210-414-4755
Robin Sultenfuss • 210-854-4443
El Campo
Hector Gutierrez • 979-543-2709
Fair Oaks Ranch
Darrell R. Steubing • 830-249-7745 or 830-446-9829
Pamela Poulk • 210-753-2626
Fayetteville
Linda Mattocks • 512-736-9988
Floresville
Gladys Rowley, FIC • 210-219-6964
Lynn Wiede • 210-289-1378
Fort Worth
Sandra Jones, FIC • 817-781-7155
Fredericksburg
Todd Bierschwale • 830-997-2130
Galveston
Teri Walston • 832-620-5405
Georgetown
Brad Klein, FIC • 512-497-0678
Giddings
Linda Mattocks • 512-736-9988
Goliad
Tracy Fuchs • 361-550-2003
Gonzales
Bobbie Polasek • 830-672-6317
Helotes
Rayna Sue Irwin • 210-710-7038
Reagan Haby Rogiers • 210-695-5588
Hondo
Jacqulynn Herrmann • 210-275-0429
Laurie Steele • 210-414-4755
Stephen Bonahoom • 210-695-5588
Houston
Gary Falkenberg, FICF • 713-466-6069
Gerald Ziemnicki • 713-622-9001
Hector Gutierrez • 979-543-2709
Teri Walston • 832-620-5405
Terrel Maertz • 979-732-1727
Jourdanton
Carol Lopez • 210-683-7241
Gladys Rowley, FIC • 210-219-6964
Laurie Steele • 210-414-4755
Katy
Terrel Maertz • 979-732-1727
Kirby
Angela Netherton • 210-831-1293
La Grange
Linda Mattocks • 512-736-9988
Kyle Hartmann • 979-639-1439
La Vernia
Marlin Tanneberger, FIC • 210-827-7229
Roxy Pruski • 210-218-6204
League City
Teri Walston • 832-620-5405
Lockhart
Janice Kuhen • 512-393-1431
Marion
Lorene Bielke, FIC • 830-420-2380
830-305-6900 (cell)
Moulton
Judith Schulmeier, FIC • 210-667-1938
New Braunfels
Becki Lucas • 361-550-9358
Brenda Heulitt • 830-832-1674
Britney Cross • 281-450-6291
Carol Lopez • 210-683-7241
Garrett Czarnek • 210-315-8152
Gloria A. Cerca • 210-274-3137
Krystal Wilson • 623-698-8348
Luiz Torres Mendez • 470-962-1174
Shirley Huebinger • 830-822-1942
Vanessa Meier • 210-264-8658
Niederwald
Shirley Kuhen Faske • 512-789-3975
Orange Grove
Paula Gebert • 361-701-7527
Paige
Linda Mattocks • 512-736-9988
Port Lavaca
Nancy Annette Walraven • 361-237-1757
Rockport
Linda Dlugosch • 361-935-5717
Rosenberg-Richmond
Gary Falkenberg, FICF • 713-466-6069
Round Top
Linda Mattocks • 512-736-9988
Rutersville
Kyle Hartmann • 979-639-1439
San Antonio
Ana Vasquez, FIC • 210-569-4660
Angela Netherton • 210-831-1293
Carol Lopez • 210-683-7241
Chris Naughton • 210-365-2009
Darrell R. Steubing • 830-249-7745 or 830-446-9829
David Guerrero Jr. • 210-800-6758
Debbie Allen • 210-326-9753
Gladys Rowley, FIC • 210-219-6964
Gloria A. Cerca • 210-274-3137
Henry Rodriguez • 210-548-2292
Isabel Diaz Servin • 210-394-4120
Javier Lara • 210-667-6889
Luiz Torres Mendez • 470-962-1174
Rayna Sue Irwin • 210-710-7038
Richard DeLeon • 210-833-8514
Roxy Pruski • 210-218-6204
Suzanne Saenz • 210-838-2711
San Marcos
Allen Caldwell • 830-237-3217
Janice Kuhen • 512-393-1431
Krystal Wilson • 623-698-8348
Shannon Caldwell • 830-837-4535
Shirley Kuhen Faske • 512-789-3975
Vanessa Meier • 210-264-8658
Schulenburg
Kyle Hartmann • 979-639-1439
Seguin
Annette D. Roecker • 830-832-0724
Roxy Pruski • 210-218-6204
Shiner
Jillian Leigh McDonald • 361-594-2500
Spring Branch
Debbie Allen • 210-326-9753
Javier Lara • 210-667-6889
Stockdale
Ronald Wiatrek • 210-771-4354
Victoria
Jason Hybner • 361-652-6924
Linda Dlugosch • 361-935-5715
Wimberley
Allen Caldwell • 830-237-3217
Shannon Caldwell • 830-837-4535
Yorktown
Judy Wolf • 361-564-2452
teresas@hermannsonslife.org
NORBERT J. KNOPP
Macdona Lodge
Died Dec. 20, 2011 • Age 91
LEMUEL J. SMITH
Da Costa Lodge Died Feb. 13, 2015 • Age 84
BETTY JO BOWMAN
Brunhilde Lodge Died Sept. 9, 2018 • Age 87
ELIZABETH WILLIAMSON
Austin Lodge
Died Dec. 29, 2020 • Age 93
JAMES E. HELMCAMP
Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge Died Feb. 24 2021 • Age 65
CAROLYN E. KEATON
Gruenau Lodge
Died July 29, 2023 • Age 77
VIOLA B. BARTEK
Deanville Lodge Died Aug. 17, 2023 • Age 88
ETHEL W. KEITH
Vineta Lodge Died Oct. 31, 2023 • Age 97
ALICE A. HENDERSON
Da Costa Lodge Died Nov. 12, 2023 • Age 83
ROY L. DUEITT
Burton Lodge Died Nov. 24, 2023 • Age 91
GILBERT C. SCHULTZE JR. Harmonia Lodge Died Dec. 30, 2023 • Age 73
SCOTT T. OESER
Rutersville Lodge Died March 2, 2024 • Age 56
In Memoriam of Our Deceased Members
ALLEN G. ECKERMANN
Shelby Lodge Died March 14, 2024 • Age 83
ROBERT W. SCHULZE
Bexar Lodge
Died May 15, 2024 • Age 75
LETRICIA M. RODRIGUEZ
Prinz Solms Lodge
Died May 22, 2024 • Age 48
SUSIE IRENE COSTELLO
Brenham Lodge
Died June 14, 2024 • Age 52
EUGENE J. WESSELS
Plum Lodge
Died June 18, 2024 • Age 95
CLARENCE G. SOBECZEK
Harmonia Lodge
Died July 11, 2024 • Age 90
JEANETTE CHUMCHAL
Shiner Lodge
Died July 15, 2024 • Age 86
BERNARD P. HUCKABY
Bryan Lodge
Died July 17, 2024 • Age 70
NANCY J.. FRIEDA
Anton Wenzel Lodge
Died July 29, 2024 • Age 77
A. W. ETLINGER JR.
Moulton Lodge
Died Aug. 1, 2024 • Age 73
MIKEL L. HAUG
Seguin Lodge
Died Aug. 1, 2024 • Age 67
ALVIN J. JOHNSON
Pershing Lodge
Died Aug. 2, 2024 • Age 94
IMELDA A. SCHOENHERR
Yorktown Lodge
Died Aug. 4, 2024 • Age 91
ROBERT B. SCHESKE
Gonzales Lodge
Died Aug. 11, 2024 • Age 77
AGNES ESCHBERGER
Taylor Lodge
Died Aug. 14, 2024 • Age 91
HARVEY L. KOERNER
Austin Lodge
Died Aug. 16, 2024 • Age 82
SHERRY L. OZMUN
Fort Worth Lodge
Died Aug. 19, 2024 • Age 52
MARY F. MCCALL
Pershing Lodge
Died Aug. 20, 2024 • Age 93
THOMAS R. PRUSKI
Mission-Alamo Lodge
Died Aug. 23, 2024 • Age 93
A. J. KOLTERMANN JR.
Pershing Lodge
Died Aug. 24, 2024 • Age 84
CHARLES B. ALSTON
Rowena Lodge
Died Aug. 27, 2024 • Age 54
META A. KUPATT
Old Glory Lodge
Died Aug. 28, 2024 • Age 94
ROY F. THOENE
Dogwood Trail Lodge
Died Aug. 29, 2024 • Age 80
RICHARD A. HERSCHAP
Orange Grove Lodge
Died Aug. 30, 2024 • Age 85
MEMORIAL DONATION FORM
MARIANNE R. DORNES
Vineta Lodge
Died Sept. 4, 2024 • Age 87
MARVIN E. HASENAK
Abilene Lodge
Died Sept. 6, 2024 • Age 76
PAULINE A. LYNN
Fort Worth Lodge
Died Sept. 8, 2024 • Age 91
LAURIE JO BARFIELD
Yorktown Lodge
Died Sept. 9, 2024 • Age 68
JAMES L. POWER
Piney Woods Lodge
Died Sept. 11, 2024 • Age 88
RUTH V. BAACKE
Weesatche Lodge
Died Sept. 12, 2024 • Age 92
CAROL J. BRYANT
Hondo Victory Lodge
Died Sept. 16, 2024 • Age 68
CAMILLA WOZNIAK
Siemering Lodge
Died Sept. 17, 2024 • Age 87
HORACE WILSON
Siemering Lodge
Died Sept. 18, 2024 • Age 94
EVELYN L. NEUMANN
Seguin Lodge
Died Sept. 23, 2024 • Age 96
JOHN E. DENISON JR.
Anton Wenzel Lodge
Died Sept. 23, 2024 • Age 79
JUDY D. NEWMAN
Karnes City Lodge
Died Sept. 23, 2024 • Age 71
ALAN B. RUNGE
Gay Hill Lodge
Died Sept. 23, 2024 • Age 62
INEZ L. M. BUES
Da Costa Lodge
Died Sept. 26, 2024 • Age 92
PATRICIA A. LEWIS
Dallas Lodge
Died Sept. 26, 2024 • Age 86
DARRELL K. FARNEY
Waco Robinson Lodge
Died Sept. 27, 2024 • Age 86
CHARLES F. BUTLER
Fredericksburg Lodge
Died Oct. 1, 2024 • Age 87
WILLIAM R. HOUGHTLING
Anton Wenzel Lodge
Died Oct. 2, 2024 • Age 73
GLADYS M. ROEMER
Round Top Lodge
Died Oct. 4, 2024 • Age 89
EVELYN M. STORK
Cameron Lodge
Died Oct. 5, 2024 • Age 88
CONNIE L. BARTAY
Da Costa Lodge
Died Oct. 13, 2024 • Age 76
BOBBY JOE HUBBARD
Anton Wenzel Lodge
Died Oct. 20, 2024 • Age 82
The names of deceased members are listed on this page only after a death claim has been filed.
Donations
MARVIN GALLER
Lodge
Donor: Paige Lodge
Donations to the Camp Scholarship Fund in Memory of:
NANCY LAND
Donor: Laubach Lodge
75 Years
GAYLA D. DOCMAN
ESTHER M. HOWARD Corpus Christi Lodge
JOHN J. LANDRY Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge
STERLING R. MARTIN Hondo Lodge
MARY T. BAIN Hondo Victory Lodge
ANN J. MAKRIS La Vernia Lodge
MARY M. MOST
Louise Scheutze Lodge
DEANNA LACKEY Rowena Lodge
CAROLYN R. FRITSCH
Rutersville Lodge
ALLEN L. THORMEYER Stern Lodge
70 Years
RUSSELL W. BUDD
Columbia Lodge
DORIS M. HASTINGS
RALPH P. LINDNER Comfort Lodge
PATRICIA G. IBROM
CONNIE S. MEYER Gruenau Lodge
SUSAN L. KNEUPPER
CAROLYN E. SPENGLER Helotes Lodge
NADINE S. REX Hochheim-Prairie Lodge
LINDA S. BLANTON
DELROSE R . LUDWIG Kypher-Salge Lodge
DENISE G. EVERS
PATRICIA A. SCHRADER Louise Scheutze Lodge
KAREN MORRIS Plum Lodge
NORMAN F. SCHULTZ Rutersville Lodge
KATHRYN A. HARTMAN Seguin Lodge
DAVID L. GRANATO
RODNEY L. PIPER
Siemering Lodge
DOROTHY M. GRIMM Taylor Lodge
MARY E. KORUS Vineta Lodge
MARY H. STEELE Washington Lodge
DARVIN W. BORGFELD Weesatche Lodge
MARSHA M. MOORE
CHARLES E. MUELLER
CONNIE M. ORTIZ Yorktown Lodge
60 Years
TAMARA S. BECKER Boerne Lodge
HAROLD G. MUELLER Cat Spring Lodge
ROBERT B. BRUCKS Cibolo Lodge
PAT E. NONNENMACHER Corpus Christi Lodge
MARJORIE A. KACIR Cuero Family Lodge
WAYNE E. EICHHOLZ Deanville Lodge
TINA E. OWENS Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge
SUZANNE B. GREGG
WALTER I. LUERSEN Fort Worth Lodge
MARY LEE SCHNEIDER Gay Hill Lodge
DANIEL M. CLEARY III Gulf Lodge
CHRIS H. BRADFIELD
RICHARD D. RICHTER
DAN S. WRIGHT Harmonia Lodge
RONALD E. TIETZE Helotes Lodge
KEITH R. BOYSEN Hochheim-Prairie Lodge
KAREN E. KOCH Hondo Victory Lodge
Pioneers
MICHAEL R. POLASEK Karnes City Lodge
DIANA MORAVITS
NORVEL S. RAWLINGS
Kirby Lodge
JIMMIE D. BENSON
BILLY JOE JEFFERS
Laubach Lodge
ANTHONY P. ZIGMOND JR. La Vernia Lodge
CAROL J. MCKINNEY
Louise Scheutze Lodge
MARY D. MCDONALD New Braunfels Lodge
LAVADA L. RHODES
Old Glory Lodge
PAMELA S. JONES
Paige Lodge
CYNTHIA E. MCCANNE
GARY W. WOLFF
TODD W. WOLFF
ALEXANDER N. ZOCH III
Pershing Lodge
WANDA D. HILDEBRAND
CHARLES T. PAWELEK Poth Lodge
VALGENE K. EBNER Round Top Lodge
ROSE L. DOYLE Rowena Lodge
DONNA L. COZZAGLIO
BOBBY W. KREJCI
DAVID F. ZAPALAC Schulenburg Lodge
CLAUDE M. GREEN III Schwertner Lodge
DONNA R. SCHMOEKEL Seguin Lodge
THOMAS F. LUTZ Siemering Lodge
MARLENE BIESENBACH
CARLTON E. HENK
MICHELE S. WOLFF Spring Branch Lodge
DARLOS HINES
TERRY R. RESTER
Womack Lodge
RAY A. LAUTER
Washington Lodge
ELIZABETH D. METTING
Yorktown Lodge
50 Years
JENNIFER A. CONLEE
Anton Wenzel Lodge
LARRY W. KOEHLER
GARY G. LANGLEY
JOHN T. LANGLEY
RAMON N. LANGLEY
STEPHEN P. LOESCH Brenham Lodge
JANET E. MOORE Brunhilde Lodge
SHIRLEY A. SODOLAK Bryan Lodge
BYRON B. CHRISTIAN
KATHLEEN M. MCGOWAN Cameron Lodge
JANET L. FRANKLIN Castroville Lodge
BEVERLY L. GOERKE Cibolo Lodge
DAVID A. BUROW
Comfort Lodge
CHRISTOPHER SCHRAUB Converse Lodge
TERESA D. HASTINGS
Dallas Lodge
BRIAN G. ADAMEK
DONNA A. COVARRUBIAS
JEAN M. KALICH
JOSEPH P. TOMAS Da Costa Lodge
JEFFERSON C. JACOBS
LOREN L. WALLS Fort Worth Lodge
CYRENA C. BENSON Fredericksburg Lodge
ELVERA A. DREWS Gay Hill Lodge
ELIZABETH C. GOINS Greater Texas Lodge
NICOLE R. BILLIOTT Gulf Lodge
RICHARD W. KETCHUM
SCOTT A .VERSTUYFT Harmonia Lodge
SHERI D. WILDE
Haskell Lodge
BRYAN D. STOLTE
KENNETH G. STOLTE
KEVEN C. STOLTE Helotes Lodge
KEVIN W. BEHRENS Hochheim-Prairie Lodge
TIMOTHY V. HUESSER Hondo Lodge
BETTY JO HARRIS Hondo Victory Lodge
BRENDA G. FLEMING Karnes City Lodge
CRAIG A. PREISS Kypfer-Salge Lodge
JANICE H. HARBORTH Laubach Lodge
CARLYSLE J. KELLER JR. Macdona Lodge
DONNA G. M. DALTON Needville Lodge
DEBORAH L. KIEKE Old Glory Lodge
LESLIE S. ARCHER
CLYDE G. MARKERT
KENNETH W. STIEWERT
ARTHUR M. URBAN Paige Lodge
JAMES M. LEMONS Pershing Lodge
STEPHEN E. WALKER JR. Prinz Solms Lodge
PAUL A. JUREK Rowena Lodge
ERIC G. WEYAND Rutersville Lodge
LILLIAN E. CARGIL
JANET L. MAGIN San Marcos Lodge
JOHN H. PUMPHREY Siemering Lodge
HELEN M. KNOLL
CHRISTIE JO REEDER
KEITH A. STUELER Twin SIsters Lodge
GLORIA F. KOLIBA
DARLA K. SHELTON Weesatche Lodge
ROBERT C. LEE Yorktown Lodge
Camp sessions will be coed in 2025
By IAN BRASSETT
Exeuctive Camp Director
Greetings from Comfort!
Hermann Sons Life Camp will operate all Camp sessions, boys and girls, at the Hilltop site in 2025.
Also new this year, Camp will be open to non-members. Members will start registration in January, and we will open registration to non-members in March.
The 2024 summer camp season was a successful one, and we are excited to incorporate the very best of Riverside and Hilltop camps for another successful season in 2025.
Operating a coed camp is not new to me. I have 25-plus years’ experience in operating coed camps. It is not new to Hermann Sons Life Camp either. Our minicamps for the past four summers
and the 10-day summer camp program were both successfully run as coed camps.
For the past three weeks I have spoken to more than 100 counselors and potential CITs to discuss the operation of a coed camp. There was lots of excitement regarding the possibilities that lay ahead for 2025 to create a camp full of boundless energy and activity.
I will be hosting a Zoom call on Dec. 16 at 6 p.m. During this call, I will review the plans and answer any questions and address any concerns.
CAMP BRAIN
This summer, Hermann Sons Life Camp will utilize a new camp enrollment platform. The Camp Brain camp management software will streamline the process of registration and required
Camp Daily Schedule
forms for parents all in one place.
SCHEDULE
The schedule for 2025 is provided. The three traditional activities will run in the morning and the two electives will be run in the afternoon. This is the same schedule Riverside has followed the past two summers.
One of the exciting opportunities the coed camp will offer
is the ability for all campers to choose from fishing, kayaking, challenge course, climbing, zip line and the Giant swing. This is awesome news for campers that may want to spend their day at the river.
Standing camp traditions will be shared at the coed camp.
2025 Camp Session Schedule
4:40
6:45
See CAMP, Pg. 9
Camp preparations under way for summer 2025
Con’t. from Pg. 8
While I believe that people make the camp, traditions are important. We will still be singing! We will bring the spirit stick up to Hilltop camp along with the Golden Broom. In fact, the Golden Broom will be awarded daily to the cleanest dorm and proudly hung on the porch for all to see. We will still have grateful circles and taps daily along with the presentation of the Camper of the Day award. Camp Brain will help with camper birthday dates so celebrants can be recognized including cake and ice cream.
One of the benefits of having both the boys and girls on the same camp is that brothers and sisters and cousins will now get to spend more time together.
Speaking of more time, the dance and game nights will now be longer since there will be no
traveling from site to site. That means we’ll have more time to line dance and eat cookies!
Fun meal-time activities will continue such as Who Has Hermann? CIT led songs, music and line dancing.
Speaking of meals, I was recently in Houston attending a food show and found a wonderful orange chicken product
that will allow us to bring back the Chinese meal! See the tentative menu below.
There will be 20 former Riverside counselors and 15 former Hilltop counselors working this summer. Many of the counselors have already signed up to return including, Static, 9 to 5, Froggy Princess, Kiwi, Machine, Spooky, WipeOut, Tangled,
2025 Camp Menu
Shutterbig, Miss Ma’am, Dominos, Beetles, Mello, UFO, Stitch, Zen, Iceman, Bubbles, Flash, AppleJax, Megatron, Sheperd, Big Wig, pAnIc!, Coconut and more.
While operations will be different, we are excited about this awesome opportunity. We will operate an incredibly fun, safe and caring summer camp
program. Please check in on the Dec. 16 if you have any questions or concerns. As always, I will make myself available to any lodges that would like me to visit.
2025 Calendar
We will operate five regular one-week summer camp programs in 2025 along with the 10-day session and mini-camp.
Assorted Cereals, Yogurt,
Assorted Cereals, Yogurt, Fruit Bowl, Cut Fruit
Assorted Cereals, Yogurt,
Cereals, Yogurt, Fruit Bowl, Cut Fruit Assorted Cereals, Yogurt, Fruit Bowl, Cut Fruit
Assorted Cereals, Yogurt, Fruit Bowl, Cut Fruit
Lodge Planner request deadline is Dec. 15
Nominations open for agent fraternalist award
SAN ANTONIO – Nominations are now being accepted for the Leroy Muehlstein Memorial Award for the Agent Fraternalist of the Year.
The deadline for requests is Dec. 15, 2024.
This Lodge Planner is a valuable tool for officers to use to conduct lodge business and should be carefully reviewed annually for important updates and requirements.
SAN ANTONIO – The 2025 Lodge Planner for officers will be available digitally on the Hermann Sons Life website in January. Visit hermannsonslife.orggo to Member Benefits and select Lodges and scroll to the bottom of the page. If your lodge would like a hard (paper) copy of the notebook, please contact Haley Blaylock, 210-226-9261, ext. 238 or email haleyb@hermannsonslife.org.
Hermann Sons Life to provide desserts for Boysville Christmas dinner
The Home Office will accept monetary donations or donations of store bought cookies, brownies, cupcakes, pies or Christmas treats on Dec. 18 and 19 during business hours – 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 515 S. St. Mary’s St. in San Antonio
Monetary donations can also be mailed (before Dec. 15) to P.O. Box 1941, San Antonio, TX 78297-1941
answers for Pg.
President/CEO Robin Czarnek established the award in August 2022 in honor of the past Grand President.
“The award recognizes an agent each year that exhibits what it means to be not only a Hermann Sons Life member, but a humanitarian,” Robin said.
All members are invited to nom-
inate a deserving agent. Nominations will be accepted through March 15, 2025. A fillable nomination form is available on the home page of the website, hermannsonslife.org – scroll to the bottom. A nomination form is also available below.
Email form to: kathrynm@hermannsonslife.org or mail to: Sales Department, Hermann Sons Life Home Office, P.O. Box 1941, San Antonio, TX 782971941, Attn: Kathryn Mutchler.
“Mr. Muehlstein exemplified
the true spirit of fraternalism, and it’s our blessing to be able to carry on his good works through our agents,” Robin said. “Mr. Muehstein was the ultimate fraternalist who lived life every day by the Hermann Sons Life motto of ‘Friendship, Love and Loyalty’.”
Leroy began his Hermann Sons Life journey in 1955 as a member of Harmonia Lodge and served from president of his lodge to being elected Grand President. He served from 1989 to 2009, longer than any other Grand President.
Leroy Muehlstein Memorial Award for the Agent Fraternalist of the Year
Email form to kathrynm@hermannsonslife.org or mail to: Sales Department, Hermann Sons Life Home Office, P.O. Box 1941, San Antonio, TX 78297-1941, Attn: Kathryn Mutchler Deadline to submit: March 15, 2025
Name of member submitting nomination:
Phone:
Email:
FRATERNALIST OF THE YEAR NOMINEE INFORMATION
Nominated agent’s name: How long an agent:_________________ Lodge: _____________________________ How long a member:_________________________________ Address:_________________________ Phone: _____________________Email: ______________________
Describe what he/she has done for Hermann Sons Life and/or the community that exemplifies the spirit of fraternalism. ( Use additional sheet if needed.)
Howie’s Happenings
Visiting ‘grandpups’ cause chaos and lots of fun
By ROBIN CZARNEK President and CEO
Howie and Beau have been enjoying the nicer temperatures and have been having a blast running around in the yard. They’ve been sunning themselves on the deck and playing so much during the day they crash hard at night.
They had visitors this month with Krypto and Oakley coming for a visit and Tig will be visiting them soon too. Krypto and Howie are ornery with each other and Howie gets so jealous.
When Krypto comes for a visit, Howie always has to make sure Krypto knows I belong to him, and he will climb in my lap…all 80 pounds of him!
With all four of the boys running around during their playdate, the house was chaotic, but Dave and I loved every minute of it. Both Beau and Howie had vet visits this month, which they’re not particularly fond of, but they forgive us, thankfully. Beau has hit 85 pounds, and Howie is just under 80 pounds.
Howie and Beau wanted to remind you about their sweet friend, Honey. Miss Honey is the sweetest girl with adorable floppy ears, but no one has come to visit with her to get to see how
Beau and Howie have been enjoying the nice weather and particularly love to sunbathe on the deck.
special she really is. Though she’s had a tough start to life, you wouldn’t know it. She makes friends with everyone and absolutely loves to play with all the pups at HOTK9. Help us spread the word to find Miss Honey a home!
Be sure to check out HOTK9 Rescue’s Facebook page for their upcoming adoption events. They are always in need of help too, so if you’re interested in volunteering, they can use your help.
If you’re interested in meeting Honey or any of the pups at HOTK9 or for more information, please email: hotk9rescue@yahoo.com to schedule a time to meet them. HOTK9 is a 501(c)(3) no-kill canine shelter rescuing pups in need. For more information and to view all the amazing dogs available for adoption, please check out Heart of Texas SPCA / HOTK9 Rescue on Facebook or online at www.heartoftexasspca.com
Lodges join together for Make a Difference Day project
In observance of Make a Difference Day, Spring Branch, Prinz Solms and Greater Texas lodges joined together and donated picnic tables and benches to St. Jude Ranch for Children (SJRC) in Bulverde. Lodge representatives gathered at the children’s home Saturday, Nov. 17, for the presentation. SJRC said the benches and tables were set up at the Touchstone Campus at their teens’ favorite hangout spot to use while they read, do their schoolwork or chat with friends.
Honey is still waiting for a forever family. To learn more about this sweet and friendly girl or to visit her, email hotk9rescue@yahoo.com.
You’ll also be able to see their adoption events where you can meet many of their precious pups. Keep in mind that Heart of Texas SPCA/HOT K9 Rescue is a volunteer run organization, so email is best.
Everyone is invited to a fund-
raiser for Heart of Texas SPCA/ HOTK9 on Dec. 5 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the HSL Home Office in San Antonio. Beverly Burke will be selling Touchstone Jewelry. Lunch will be provided. All proceeds from this sale will go to support the shelter.
Brunhilde members celebrate Halloween
SAN ANTONIO – Brunhilde Lodge celebrated Halloween season with a game day at the Rathskeller Bar on Sunday, Oct. 20.
Lynn Hurt, mother of lodge member Jen Stanford, led attendees in several games that required a little thinking and a little knowledge of German language. Then everyone had time to play some of their favorite board and card games while enjoying a potluck lunch and drinks.
Everyone would agree that Else Gottschalk won the costume contest, and David Shaw was a close second. Officer elections were also held.
The holiday party and charitable event are being scheduled and dates will be announced soon.
– Reporter
Jourdanton Lodge presents donation
Sharon Carson, member of Jourdanton Lodge, presented a $500 lodge donation to Beth Gossett of the Bountiful Blessings Food Pantry in Pleasanton. The lodge also supported the Bountiful Blessings’ Thanksgiving Turkey Trot on Nov. 28 by matching all donations up to $500.
New Braunfels plans Christmas party
NEW BRAUNFELS – New Braunfels Lodge will hold a Christmas party on Sunday, Dec. 1. A catered meal will be served, and membership pins will be presented.
The election of officers for 2025 was held at the November meeting. Violet Tanneberger and Jolene Meuret were reelected as president and vicepresident, and Dennis Schwab was re-elected as financial/ trustee.
A Resolution of Respect was
read for Patricia Schertz. Violet and Delbert Tanneberger celebrated their 57th anniversary.
Attendance-prize winners were Martha and Amanda Tolle, Violet Tanneberger, Shirley Huebinger, Tommy Daum, B.J. and D.J. Schneider, Leola Stolte, Sandra Guenther, Janice Neff, Dennis Schwab and Debbie Vetter. Connie Krause hosted the meal served after games and refreshments.
– Reporter
New Braunfels Lodge recognized anniversary celebrants Violet and Delbert Tanneberger at the November meeting.
Dallas pioneers receive membership pins
DALLAS – Dallas Lodge will meet Dec. 15 at the historic Dallas Hall at 1 p.m.
Members are encouraged to attend for food, drinks and fellowship.
Martin A. Herrmann received his 50-year membership pin. He has been a member since Nov.
25, 1974, and resides in Sachse, TX. His father called all members his sons and daughters because of his name. He came to the hall every Friday night, attended meetings and events and would sing in German at Christmas events.
Teresa D. Hasting received her
50-year membership pin. She has been a member since Dec. 15, 1974, and resides in New Braunfels.
Congratulations to both, their membership is appreciated. I wish you and your family a Merry Christmas.
– Andy Schellenberg
Brunhilde Lodge held a Halloween game day in October. Members pictured include Jen Stanford, Else Gottschalk, David Shaw and Lynn Hurt leading the games.
Else Gottschalk and Billy Ethington celebrate at the Brunhilde Lodge Halloween party held at the Rathskeller Bar.
David Shaw and Patti Shippey donned their costumes for the Brunhilde Lodge Halloween celebration.
Freya and Roy Snyder enjoy a potluck lunch at the Brunhilde Lodge Halloween celebration in October.
Hondo Victory presents four
donations
Hondo Victory Lodge presented a donation to the Bluebonnet Children’s Advocacy in observance of Make a Difference Day. Pictured are, from left, Emilie Cowan, lodge secretary; Aurline Tschirhart, lodge president; and from the Bluebonnet Children’s Advocacy Center, Eddy Gentry, executive director and Ashley Kotara, intake coordinator.
Hondo Victory Lodge President Aurline Tschirhart, left, presents a donation to Diane Cosgrove, executive director of Restore Reproductive Health. The donation was made in observance of Make a Difference Day.
Door prize winners at the Niederwald Lodge November meeting were Catherine Blackard and Adeline Schubert. Officers for 2025 were elected, and members voted to send $1,000 to the Hermann Sons Life Hurricane Relief Fund for Convoy of Hope. The lodge will hold a Christmas gathering at Garcia’s in Lockhart at 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 3. The Humanitarian of the Year Award will be presented.
For Make a Difference Day, Hondo Victory Lodge presented a donation to the Medina County Food Pantry. Pictured are, from left, Francis Lopez, pantry director; Aurline Tschirhart, lodge president and Betty Ann Prewitt.
Southwest Family Life Center Executive Director Elda M. Garcia, left, accepts a donation from Hondo Victory Lodge President Aurline Tschirhart. The lodge made several donations in observance of Make a Difference Day.
Shiner Lodge donates to food pantry
Shiner Lodge recently presented a donation to the Shiner food pantry. Pictured are, from left, food pantry helpers Monique Charo, Earline Pilat, Pastor Darin Zummalt and lodge members, Bernice Jalufka, Betty Caka, Irene Fiedler, Delores Branesky and JoAnn Winkenwerder.
Lockhart Lodge elects 2025 officers
LOCKHART – Lockhart Lodge will hold a Christmas party on Dec. 1 at 4 p.m. Bingo will be played with prizes. Members who would like to participate in the gift exchange are asked to bring a wrapped $15 gift.
At the November meeting, Nominating Committee members Jolene Boring and Carol Schuelke presented a list of nominations. Elected were President Nicky Duewall; Vice President Ann Schroeder; Financial Secretary Ray Pfefferkorn; Corresponding Secretary Debbie Pfefferkorn; Financial Trustee (new three-year term) Dickie
Rutherford; Financial Trustee 2, Darrell Hess; Financial Trustee 3, Lil Pfefferkorn; Communications Coordinator Jonelle Frerich; Youth Coordinator Jolene Boring; Membership Coordinator Janet Schaefer; and Community Coordinator Nancy Hess. Anna Kate was nominated for the 2024 Humanitarian of the Year Award. Ray Pfefferkorn read thankyou notes for the lodge’s donation to the Retirement Home Christmas Fund and for the donation to Grief Camp in memory of Greg Galle.
A moment of silence was ob-
served for Greg who died Sept. 17, 2024, at the age of 63. Greg was a member since September 1970.
Members discussed community donations and approved the 2025 calendar of events.
Members Rudy Schroeder and Danny Ewald were honored for Veterans Day.
Celebrating November birthdays were Ann Schroder, Daniel Hyland, Anna Kate Duewall and Dickie Rutherford
Door prize winners were Kristi Visage, Danny Ewald and Nancy Hess.
Niederwald donates $1,000 to Hurricane fund
Burton Lodge presents award, membership pins
BURTON – Burton Lodge met at JW’s Steakhouse on Nov. 7 for its annual appreciation dinner. Twenty-five members and two guests were present to witness the presentation of the Humanitarian of the Year award to Linda Knipstein by President Dale Schwartz.
Linda, a Burton and Brenham community icon, is a retired schoolteacher who has continued a very active life in both communities. She is instrumental in operating The Corner Store, a resale shop where she coordinates all merchandise and work schedules.
She is also the backbone of a major fundraiser for St. John’s UCC where she coordinates the ticket sales and delivery of 1,200 plates of turkey and dressing dinners for drive-thru pick up in Brenham and Burton. Linda’s willingness to volunteer is outstanding. She is also an active member of the Brenham Area Retired Teachers Association and the Sarah Evening Circle at St. John’s.
Lodge pioneers were recognized. Nina Dallmeyer was presented a 50-year membership pin; Bob Finke and Linda Gaskamp were presented 60-year pins and Don Kessler was presented a 75-year pin.
Corpus Christi to hold party on Dec. 14
CORPUS CHRISTI – The Corpus Christi Lodge Christmas party is scheduled for Dec. 14 at 6 p.m. at The Butter Churn in Aransas Pass. The next business meeting will be held on Jan. 7, 2025. Location to be determined.
All current officers were reelected for 2025 at the November meeting held at Miller’s BBQ.
Celebrating October birthdays were Troylyn Gonzalez and David Garcia Sr. and Kamberlie Bainbridge celebrated a birthday in November.
Door-prize winners were Vicky Taber, David Garcia Jr. and Betty Ballard, and Betty Ballard was the 50/50 winner.
– Debra Mazur
The 2025 officers were elect-
Celebrating birthdays at the Corpus Christi Lodge November meeting were, from left, David Garcia Sr., Kamberlie Bainbridge and Troylyn Gonzalez.
ed, and they are President Dale Schwartz, Vice President Denise Brode, Secretary Sue Schwartz and Treasurer E.J. Muehlbrad. – Reporter
Corpus Christi Lodge November door-prize winners were, from left, Vicky Taber, David Garcia Jr. and Betty Ballard. Betty was also the 50/50 winner.
Fort Worth Lodge will meet at Outback Steakhouse Dec. 1
FORT WORTH – Fort Worth Lodge will meet on Dec. 1 at 3 p.m. at Outback Steakhouse at 13265 S. Fwy. in Burleson. The election of officers will be held.
Hope to see you there to help make plans for 2025.
The lodge welcomes new member Cora Supper. Hope to see her at the next meeting.
Congratulations to 60-year membership pin recipients Suzanne Gregg, a member since Dec. 7, 1964, and Walter Luersen, a member since Dec. 9, 1964, and to 50-year pin recipient Loren Walls, a member since Dec. 1, 1974. Their long-time membership is appreciated.
Sympathy is extended to the family of Tommy Gregory, a courageous young man who fought a very tough battle. Tommy always had a smile for everyone he
met. He was a third-generation member and was always at the lodge ready to help in anyway. Happy birthday wishes to Linda Balmos, Larry Barclay, Michael Burton, Gracie Castor, Bill Cotton, David Dornberg, Robin Evans, Christopher Hanna, Kenneth Miller, Maci Minter, Michael Rojas, Shelbie Stephenson, Brennen Tousley, William Tousley and Kinslee Wallace.
Members are reminded to check beneficiaries and other information on policies to make sure they are up to date. Forms for policy changes are available on the Hermann Sons Life website. For additional assistance or policy questions, contact Agent Sandra Jones at 817-781-7155.
Fort Worth Lodge wishes everyone a happy holiday season.
– Reporter
Burton Lodge President Dale Schwartz presented Linda Knipstein with the Humanitarian of the Year Award at the November meeting.
Burton Lodge President Dale Schwartz, far right, presented membership pins to Bob Finke, 60 years; Don Kessler, 75 years; Linda Gaskamp, 60 years; and Nina Dallmeyer, 50 years; at the November appreciation dinner.
Burton Lodge elected officers at the November meeting. They are, from left, Secretary Sue Schwartz, Treasurer E. J. Muehlbrad, President Dale Schwartz and Vice President Denise Brode.
Hochheim-Prairie Lodge presents donations
YOAKUM – Hochheim-Prairie Lodge re-elected current officers for 2025 at the November meeting. They are President Janet Zabransky, Vice President Roberta Wenzel, Financial Secretary Carolyn Hoepfl, Financial Trustees, Charles Hoepfl, Joyce Word and Debbie Zinke. The Home Association officers are President Carol Jungmann, Secretary Debbie Zinke and Treasurer Wilburn Pargmann. President Zabransky thanked them for their service. The next meeting will be held March 2, 2025.
In October, Roberta Wenzel and Carolyn Hoepfl presented Make a Difference donations to the Carl and Mary Welhausen Library and to the Yoakum Volunteer Fire Department.
Anniversary honorees were
Hochheim Prairie Lodge presented a donation to the Yoakum Volunteer Fire Department for Make a Difference Day. Pictured are, from left, Jeff Ruppert, Isaiah Reibeling, Secretary Carolyn Hoepfl, Fire Chief Mark Herchek, Vice Pesident Roberta Wenzel and Sebastian Muniz.
Tommy and Roberta Wenzel, 66 years, and the birthday honoree was Wilburn Pargmann, 88.
Robera Wenzel won the door prize.
The lodge wishes everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! – Reporter
Boerne to present award during party
BOERNE – Boerne Lodge will celebrate Christmas on Thursday, Dec. 12, at The Hungry Horse Restaurant. Please wear festive clothing for the occasion. The Humanitarian of the Year Award will be presented. The election of officers was held at the November meeting. All current officers will remain in office except for Donald D’Spain who has been appointed as a trustee in place of Jack Faecher. Secretary Marilyn Vogt reported the lodge currently has 680 members in good standing.
A thank you card from Charlie Hamilton, Director of Client Services for Meals on Wheels, was read thanking the lodge for the recent $500 donation. He said the donation was most welcome and will go to help many needy individuals.
Condolences were extended to the family of Richard George.
Boerne Lodge members Kathy Kunz and Barbara D’Spain presented a check for $500 to Chief Deputy Kevin Reser of the Kendall County Sheriff’s Office for its Blue Santa Christmas toy drive.
A memorial donation will be made to the Hermann Sons Life Youth Camp in his honor.
James Meckel won the door prize. Fall was celebrated with decorations and treats for members.
– Reporter
La Vernia to hold Christmas party Dec. 8
LA VERNIA – Members of La Vernia lodge are invited to attend the annual Christmas party on Sunday, Dec. 8, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the lodge hall, 122 Bluebonnet (F.M. 775) in La Vernia.
Rutersville Lodge will meet Dec. 4
The event will include a Mexican meal, drinks, desserts and friendly fellowship. Please contact Secretary Jeanie Walpole at 830-253-1534 if you plan to attend and let her know how many will be in your party no later than Dec. 4.
Come join us, meet the officers and learn what the lodge is doing.
Birthday celebrants pictured at the November meeting of Rutersville Lodge are Sherry Noak, Jo Ann Mueller and Weldon Hartmann. Weldon prepared a fried chicken meal for his birthday. The attendance prize winners were Karen Rosenbaum, Roy Weyand, Delores Bayer, Carol Jenkins and Glenn Altwein. The lodge will meet Dec. 4, and the Christmas party will be held Saturday, Dec. 7, at 6 p.m. Santa will visit around 7 p.m.
Hochheim Prairie Lodge presented a donation to the Carl and Mary Welhajusen Library for Make a Difference Day. Pictured are, Vice President Roberta Wenzel, Gina Jiral and Secretary Carolyn Hoepfl.
Hochheim Prairie Lodge recognized anniversary celebrants, from left, Tommy and Roberta Wenzel and birthday celebrant Wilburn Pargmann at the November meeting.
Lodge members
Pershing Lodge recognized anniversary celebrants Eddie and Dorothy
Pershing Lodge plans ham dinner for December
SAN ANTONIO – Pershing Lodge will meet on Dec. 4 at 7 p.m. in the Rathskeller. The lodge will provide a dinner of ham and sides and apple pie for dessert. Bingo will be played.
A reminder there will be no meeting in January due to the New Year’s Day holiday.
Newly elected officers for 2025 are Beth Warne, president; Carol Krauss, vice president; Janilla Kilborn, corresponding secretary; and Sharon Mainz, financial trustee.
Returning officers are Pat Plouch, financial secretary, Marilyn Hoster and James Lay, financial trustee.
The lodge welcomes new member Lennox Mako Cook. For Make a Difference Day, members visited Tony Valek who is at a care facility and presented him with a gift card. The visitors included his wife Carolyn Valek, Pat Plouch, Emily Wallace and Carol Krauss. Celebrating November birth-
days were Liz Napier, Janilla Kilborn and Mel Krauss and they each received a prize. November anniversary celebrants were Eddie and Dorothy Rechner, 62 years and Wayne and Janilla Kilborn, 31 years.
Members who have recently passed away are Marie H. Helsley, 84; Alvin James Johnson,
94; Steven R. Koehler, 68; Paul Fay McComb, 83; James Joseph Kohler, 67; Susan M. Short, 77; Barbara E. Wilhelm, 87; and Woodrow F. Wilhelm, 92. Shelley Krauss won the $35 attendance prize, and Dale Wenzel won the split-the-pot drawing.
– Dorothy Pawlik
Houston to celebrate at steakhouse
HOUSTON – Houston Lodge will hold a Christmas dinner on Saturday, Dec. 7, at 4 p.m. at Logan’s Roadhouse in Houston. In October, members gathered at Don Jose’s Restaurant for a social hour and dinner. Visitors were Jeffery Helberg and Shelby Weikel.
Vice President Patricia Bushman announced members would volunteer at the Houston Food Bank on Oct. 26 for Make a Difference Day.
Consider running for an officer position in the upcoming election of officers.
Happy Birthday was sung to Kiera Thomason who turned 11.
For information on Houston Lodge, contact Corresponding Secretary Catherine Manchack, at 832-443-0469 or email cnmanchack@gmail.com
Pershing
visited Tony Valek who is in a care facility for Make a Difference Day and gave him a gift card. Pictured with him are, from left, Carolyn Valek, Pat Plouch, Emily Wallace and Carol Krauss.
Pershing Lodge members celebrating November birthdays were, from left, Liz Napier, Mel Krauss and Janilla Kilborn.
Rechner at the November meeting.
For Make a Difference Day, Houston Lodge members volunteered at the Houston Food Bank. The sorted and packaged 8,000 lbs. of apples. Those in attendance were Jeff Krahn, Reuben Heldberg, Lavina Patterson, Samantha Thomason, Kiera Thomason, James Ellison and Pat Bushman.
Deanville presents HSL pins
DEANVILLE – Deanville Lodge hosted President and CEO Robin Czarnek and husband David at the October meeting.
Robin presented a 50-year membership pin to Sharon K. Albrecht, 60-year membership pins to Wayne E. Eichholz, Mildred Miman, Barbara Ann Smith and Linda Ann Beran and 75year membership pins to Beverly L. Blinka and Nancy McCarty Hobbins. Congratulations to all the members who received membership pins in 2024.
In October, the lodge provided drinks for the annual Deanville Fire Department fundraiser, participated in the St. Johns’ Lutheran Trunk or Treat, called bingo and provided prizes at the Caldwell Senior Citizen Center.
The election of officers for 2025 was planned for the Nov. 24 meeting.
Following the meeting, everyone enjoyed refreshments and fellowship.
– Reporter
Seguin party set for Dec. 8
SEGUIN – Seguin Lodge will hold the annual Christmas party on Sunday, Dec. 8, at the Hall. Doors will open for happy hour at noon with an open bar. A holiday ham is on the menu and members are asked to bring a side dish or dessert.
Membership pins will be presented. If you have received a pin in the mail this year, please bring
it with you to be recognized.
The dance students will perform, and Santa will visit with goodie bags. Parents can bring gifts for Santa to hand out to their children.
For Make a Difference Day, the lodge collected 250 pounds of food items for the Christian Cupboard.
– Reporter
Lodge
Vineta will celebrate holidays Dec. 5
SAN ANTONIO – Vineta Lodge
will celebrate the holidays with a tamale and chili meal on Thursday, Dec 5. The January meeting has been canceled.
Members will visit Texas Lutheran University on Dec. 8 for the Christmas Vespers, a great presentation by the Music Department students.
The 2025 officers were elected
at the November meeting, and they are Debbie Jordan, president; Emily Roberts, vice president; Beth Byron, Finance Committee/trustee; and Ruth Bailey, financial/corresponding secretary.
Janelle Harshaw was the splitthe-pot winner and attendanceprize winners were Genny Kraus, Emily Roberts, Irene Kace and
Janelle Harshaw.
Thank you to Debbie Jordan for making the turkey, dressing and gravy. It was delicious as well as the sides provided by the members. Thanks to Cecilia Padalecki for making the cake in celebration of her birthday. The lodge wishes each of you Happy Holidays!
– Reporter
Anton Wenzel Lodge will meet Dec. 3
Gene Kellner, left, receives his split-the-pot winnings from Anton Lodge President Edward Elizondo at the November meeting. The lodge celebrated Thanksgiving with a turkey dinner and all the fixings. A meal of tamales and chili will be served for the meeting on Dec. 3 at 7 p.m. All members are welcome.
Seguin Lodge door prize winners were, from left, Tim Kolbe, Melody Beutnagel, Howard Huebner, Brenda Schrank, Debbie Vogel and Allen Gescheidle.
President and CEO Robin Czarnek, far right, and President Donnie Blinka presented 75-year membership pins to Nancy Hobbins, left, and Beverly Blinka during the October meeting.
Deanville Lodge presented membership pins at the October meeting. Pictured are 60-year recipients, from left, Linda Beran, Wayne Eichholz, Mildren Miman and Barbara Smith with President Donnie Blinka and President and CEO Robin Czarnek.
Deanville Lodge President Donnie Blinka, from left, and President and CEO Robin Czarnek presented a 50-year membership pin to Sharon K. Albrecht at the October meeting.
Deanville
President Donnie Blinka, far right, calls bingo at the Caldwell Senior Citizen Center in October. The lodge also provided prizes.
Da Costa elects officers at November meeting
DA COSTA – Da Cossta Lodge will meet Jan. 14, 2025, at 6 p.m. More member participation is needed so the lodge can offer more events and activities to members.
At the final meeting of the year in November, the election of 2025 officers was held. They are President Sayra Elkins, Vice President Barbara Hybner, Secretary Thomas Pribyl and Treasurer Katie Kurtz.
The 2025 officers for the Home Association are President Sarah Pribyl, Vice President Tommy West, Secretary Doris Mayfield and Treasurer Elizabeth Vasquez. The lodge appreciates these individuals for volunteer-
ing their time and working to keep the lodge alive.
A total of $66 was raised at the October public dance’s 50/50 raffle and the lodge added that to donations for Christ’s Kitchen and the Food Bank of the Golden Crescent. The lodge plans to make donations periodically to different organizations.
With that said, the lodge is lacking in member participation. Unfortunately, due to the low number of dancers registered, the Da Costa School of Dance classes have been canceled for the 2024-2025 dance year. If there is enough interest next year, the school will reopen. So, if you know of youth, mem-
Lodge Christmas parties
Paige – Dec. 8
PAIGE – Paige Lodge will celebrate Christmas at the Sunday, Dec. 8, meeting at noon at the lodge hall. The Lodge will furnish the meal and drinks, and bingo will be played with cash priz-
es. The election of officers for 2025 will be held. Come out and enjoy the food and fellowship. Guests are welcome.
– Reporter
Laubach– Dec. 8
SEGUIN – The Laubach Lodge Christmas party will be held Sunday, Dec. 8, at 1 p.m. at the Big Red Barn, 390 Cordova Road in Seguin.
The meat will be provided, members are asked to bring sides and desserts.
– Reporter
Plum – Dec. 14
PLUM – Plum Lodge will hold a Christmas party on Dec. 14 at 5 p.m. at the Prairie Valley School House.
Members who have received membership pins in 2024 will be honored. Look for an invitation in the mail. Everyone is encouraged to attend.
bers and non-members, who would love to learn tap, ballet, jazz etc. and are 3 years old as of next Sept. 1, 2025, to 17 years of age, please have them contact a lodge officer and watch for the 2025-2026 registration to open next summer.
The Youth Christmas Program has been an annual tradition for many years with the dancers performing. Unfortunately, due to the dance classes being canceled, the Youth Christmas party will not be held this year.
The Christmas public dance will be held on Saturday, Dec. 14, featuring the Texas 361 Band. Doors will open at 7 p.m. and music is from 8 p.m. to mid-
night. The cost is $15 per person and 12 and under are free.
For Taylor Swift fans, aka Swifties, a Taylor Swift Birthday Dance Party will be held on Friday, Dec. 13. Doors open at 7 p.m. and a DJ will play from 8-11 p.m. The cost is $13 per person. Wear your favorite attire and bring bracelets to swap. There will be door prizes and lots of photo opportunities.
Ring in 2025 at the New Year’s Eve Dance featuring the Tainted Heart Band on Tuesday, Dec. 31. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. and the music is from 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Cost is $15 per person and 12 and under are free.
Gloria Raschke was the October attendance-prize winner.
Members dined on to-go plates of turkey and dressing from Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church.
– Reporter
The lodge needs to fill a trustee position. Please contact the lodge if you are interested in serving.
Helotes Lodge will meet on Dec. 10
Helotes Lodge will meet on Tuesday, Dec. 10, at 7 p.m. at Braun Hall.
The election of officers will be held and a hot meal will be provided.
– Reporter
CIBOLO – The Cibolo Lodge Christmas Party will be held at GG’s Restaurant in Marion on Sunday, Dec. 8, from 4-8 p.m. The fee for members is $10 and $20 for guests. The raffle drawing for quilts and other items will be held and benefits the Guadalupe County Children’s Advocacy Center, the lodge’s Matching Funds recipient this year.
Canned goods for the Randolph Area Christian Assistance Program will be collected again this year at the party.
The election of officers was held at the November meeting. The 2025 officers are President Tracy Campos, Vice President Sherry Rakowitz, Recording Secretary Layla Deluca, Chairman Trustee Jonny Brown and Finance Committee Chairman Cory Rakowitz.
The lodge participated in two Make a Difference Day activities. The lodge donated teddy bears and baby blankets to the Schertz Funeral Home for families having services for infants. The lodge also collected toiletry items for residents of the Silver Tree Nursing Home.
The lodge will not meet in January or February, but an officers’ meeting is planned tentatively for mid to late January. Everyone is invited. Emails will be sent out.
For any lodge questions, give us a call. We hope you had a blessed Thanksgiving, and wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
– Reporter
The 2025 monthly public dance schedule will kick-off with a dance featuring The Legacy Band on Jan.18. The Dark 30 Band will perform for the Valentine’s Day Dance on Feb. 15; Leo Alejandro performs March 8; Billy Mata and the Texas Traditions on April 19, $20 per person; and Texas 361 on May 10 with more to come. If you’d like to reserve tables for any of the public dances, please call Sayra at 361-578-2039 or text 361676-6947.
Cibolo party at GG’s on Dec. 8
Leroy Williams,
and Janet Triesch.
Tracy Campos, Joy
Cibolo Lodge recognized birthdays celebrants, from left, Fay Fey, Alvin Schulz and Dena Warneke at the November meeting.
The adult attendance-prize winners were Joy Brown and Tracy Campos. Voted the best side dish was Sherry Rakowitz’s green bean casserole and voted best cookie/dessert were Tracy Campos’ chocolate chip/caramel/coconut cookies.
Cibolo Lodge donated teddy bears and blankets for Make a Difference Day to the Schertz Funeral Home. Pictured from left, are Lauren Penuelaz, member Layla De Luca, Stephanie Acosta, Kacey Jones,
members
Brown, Bonne Wyrich
San Marcos to hold party at Zorn Bowling Club
SAN MARCOS – The San Marcos Lodge annual Christmas Party will be held on Sunday, Dec. 8, at 1 p.m. at the Zorn Bowling Club. Membership pins will be presented by a Hermann Sons Life officer.
A gift exchange, $15 value, will be held among the adults and each family is encouraged to bring a gift for their children to receive during the gifts exchange. Guessing games will be played during the afternoon followed by a turkey dinner from Bill Miller’s Barbecue.
Please text Janice Kuhen at 512-393-1431 to RSVP and provide the number of those who will attend. There is a reservation
fee of $5 for adults and juniors.
The fee for non-San Marcos Lodge members is $15. Everyone is encouraged to bring nonperishable food items for the food bank.
Officers elected for 2025 are Shirley Faske, president; Agnes Dreibrodt, vice president; and Janet Magin, financial trustee.
At the November meeting, the lodge recognized veterans Billy Preuss, Ken Cargil, Bruce Moreau, Marshall McQuaig, Marshall Smith, Bob Stoffel and Todd Manning in honor of Veterans Day. They were thanked for their service.
Calendar Committee Chairperson Agnes Dreibrodt announced
the calendar of events for 2025. Members will receive an updated calendar at the Christmas party.
President Faske announced the Home Office is inviting lodges and members to contribute to a collective donation for the Convoy of Hope for the victims of the Helene and Milton hurricanes. The organization distributes food, water and relief supplies to the areas hardest hit.
Happy Birthday wishes were sung to Mary Jane Smith and Howard Magin.
The attendance-prize winners were Yvonne Reimers and Lillian Cargil.
– Reporter
Bexar to hold Disney-themed holiday party Dec. 7
SAN ANTONIO – Bexar Lodge will hold the annual Christmas party on Dec. 7 from 4-9 p.m. at VFW Post 8541, 2222 Austin Hwy., San Antonio, TX 78218. This year’s theme is “Disney Christmas” so, feel free to wear your favorite Mickey ears or Disney outfit and come ready to have a magical time! There will be a delicious din-
ner of chicken fried chicken, potatoes and roasted vegetables and plenty of fun games to get you in a festive mood! The Northwest Dancers will be rocking around the Christmas tree with a special number, and we’ll also have a special visit from the man in red himself, Santa! Lodge members with juniors are asked to contact Lisa Ro-
zacky at 210-838-3306 with three gift ideas under $15 so Santa can have a present ready for them. Non-members are encouraged to bring a small, wrapped gift for their little ones.
For this special event, there is no fee for members to attend. Non-members will pay $15. To RSVP, please visit hermannson-
slifebexar.com.
An in-house raffle will be held including prizes of San Antonio Missions tickets, an open water diving class for two and tickets to the Stars and Stripes DriveIn. Tickets for the in-house raffle are $2 each or three for $5 and you must be present to win.
Want a chance for some free raffle tickets? Bring three items
to donate to the Ronald McDonald House such as apple juice, cereal, coffee K-cups, coffee creamer, cooking oil, paper towels, magic erasers, Clorox wipes or toilet bowl cleaner and receive a free ticket (up to three times).
The lodge looks forward to seeing you at the party! – Reporter
McGregor Lodge presents Humanitarian Award
MCGREGOR – McGregor Lodge will meet on Dec. 3 at 5 p.m. Members will be contacted with location details. A January meeting will not be held. The next meeting will be held Feb. 3 at 5 p.m. Location to be determined.
At the November meeting, President Doris Mooney and Secretary/Treasurer Teresa Sneed presented the 2024 Humanitarian Award of the Year Award to Bonnie Mullens. Bonnie has lived in McGregor her entire life except for two years after graduating from Baylor University with a degree in journalism. She worked in Arlington for the National Association for Retarded Citizens Newspaper. She returned to McGregor and worked 57 years at The
McGregor Mirror. She retired after the death of her brother, Charles Mooney. Charles also worked at the Mirror along with their sister Mynette Taylor.
Bonnie has always been involved in many organizations including Lions Club, Rotary Club, Chamber of Commerce, Main Street Program, Community Development, Youth Baseball, School Board, Planning and Zoning, Hugs Group and the McGregor Tiara Literary Society Book Club.
Bonnie has attended every McGregor Council meeting, taking notes and reporting news to the citizens in The Mirror and now serves on the council.
She presented a video and spoke on the history of Mc-
Gregor at the Founder’s Day celebration and is working on opening a museum. Congratulations!
All officers were re-elected for 2025.
It was reported Regenia Arseneaux is recovering and feeling better. Get-well wishes were extended to all friends and members who have been “under the weather.”
The lodge also sends happy birthday, and happy anniversary wishes to all friends and members celebrating and expressed gratitude to all veterans for their service.
The door-prize winners were Teresa Sneed, Kerry Arseneaux and Jerome Weinstrom.
Thanks to Teresa Sneed for the “goodie bags.”
The lodge wishes everyone a happy Thanksgiving with family and friends, a Merry Christ-
San Marcos Lodge November attendance-prize winners were Yvonne Reimers and Lillian Cargil.
San Marcos Lodge November birthday celebrants were Howard Magin and Mary Jane Smith.
mas celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ and a healthy, happy and blessed New Year 2025.
McGregor Lodge President Doris Mooney, left, and Secretary/Treasurer Teresa Sneed, right, presented Bonnie Mullens the 2024 Humanitarian of the Year Award at the November meeting.
Mission-Alamo Lodge hosts Medicare presentation
SAN ANTONIO – Mission-Alamo Lodge will meet in the new year on Jan. 19.
At the October meeting, Regional Manager David Guerrero and Agent Gladys Rowley were in attendance to give a presentation and answer Medicare questions. Another special guest was Harmonia Lodge President Matthew Kraus.
The lodge welcomes new member Torben Knox Summer.
For Make a Difference Day, the lodge donated $150 to the St. Vincent De Paul Food Pantry and $50 to the Retirement Home Christmas Fund.
Lillie Mae Dienger, left, and Carol Swan were birthday celebrants at the October meeting of Mission-Alamo Lodge.
The lodge also donated $50 to a fund organized by Harmonia Lodge for the Blue Santa program.
Members re-elected the same slate of officers to serve in 2025.
Yorktown holds annual cook-off
YORKTOWN – Yorktown Lodge held its annual Yorktown Lodge Family Western Week Cook-off in October at the lodge hall.
The Triple Crown winner was JZ Smokehouse. The brisket winners were, first place, All Day Cookers; second place, R & R Cookers; and third place, Jordan Gallegos.
Rib winners were, first place, JZ Smokehouse; second place, Nitro Meat Wagon; and third place, Andersen Cookers.
Chicken winners were, first place, Jordan Gallegos; second place, Matt Metting, South Texas AC; and third place, Andersen Cookers.
Other winners were Jackpot Fajitas, Tailgate Cookers; Jackpot Chili, Tailgate Cookers; Jackpot Dessert, Tipsy Chefs Cookers; and Jackpot Beans, Mack Wimberly.
Congratulations to all the winners.
– Reporter
Mission-Alamo Lodge recognized anniversary celebrants Kirby and Diane Cline at the October meeting.
Carol Swan and Lillie Mae Dienger celebrated birthdays in October, and Diane and husband Kirby celebrated an anniversary in October.
All Day Cookers won first place brisket in the Yorktown Lodge cook-off.
First place ribs winner in the Yorktown Lodge
Jimmie
Smokehouse.
Carl Lakin’s name was drawn for the attendance prize, but he was not present. – Reporter
Chicken first place winner in the Yorktown Lodge cook-off was Jordan Gallegos.
Prinz Solms party on Dec. 8
BULVERDE – The Prinz Solms Lodge joint Christmas party with Spring Branch Lodge will be held on Sunday, Dec. 8, at 1 p.m. at the Bulverde Community Center.
Officers for 2025 were elected at the November meeting. They are President Russell Boss, Vice President Teresa Saathoff, Secretary/Treasurer Tom Pardue, Trustees, Doug Saathoff, Nolan Wehe and Warren Scholz, Youth Coordinator Audrey Klabunde, Membership Coordinator Doug Klabunde, Community Coordinator Jackie Oldfield and Correspondence Coordinator Tom Pardue.
The recipient of the 2024 Humanitarian of the Year Award was Dorothy Laubach.
Tickets have been purchased for the presentation of the “Christmas Wonderettes” on Dec. 13. Those interested should contact Jackie Oldfield. Spring Branch Lodge, Greater Texas Lodge and Prinz Solms Lodge together donated to St. Jude Ranch for Children in Bulverde for the purchase of outdoor games, picnic tables and benches.
Members of Spring Branch Lodge picked up the games and assembled picnic tables. The presentation was held Nov. 17.
Everyone enjoyed a lasagna dinner with sides and desserts, bingo and the opportunity to visit with friends.
– Reporter
cook-off was
Zapata, JZ
The Yorktown Lodge Western Week Cook-off Triple Crown winner was JZ Smokehouse BBQ.
Celebrating Halloween at the October meeting of Mission-Alamo Lodge were, from left, Dorothy Breezee, Diane Cline, Joyce Kneupper, Denise Wright, Lauryn Pike, Avery Martinez, Hayden Martinez and Carter Cline.
Prinz Solms Lodge recognized veterans, from left, Nolan Wehe, Warren Scholz and Russell Boss at the November meeting. Nolan also celebrated a birthday in November.
Columbia Lodge presents Humanitarian Award
DALLAS – Columbia Lodge will meet Sunday, Jan. 5, at 3 p.m. at the Hall.
Officers elected for 2025 are David Lewis, president; Jeremiah Arauco, vice president; Cecilia Phillips, corresponding/ financial secretary; and Barbara McMillen, three-year financial trustee.
Special guest at the November meeting was Camille Kraeplin from Genesis Women’s Shelter. She is the Director of Grant Development and is the recipient of the lodge’s Humanitarian of the Year Award for 2024. She gave a wonderful speech about the shelter and said although under-reported, domestic violence occurs among 41% of
women in the United States. Thank you to Camille and all her co-workers at Genesis for their community enrichment and hard work.
The November meeting was followed by a Thanksgiving potluck dinner. We sure have great cooks among us! The lodge wishes everyone a belated Happy Thanksgiving.
Members celebrated the life of Jo Nicodemus, a long-time member in November. She was a friend, bartender, mentor of common sense, a stone pillar to lean on, generous and she was every other word in the English language to describe positivity and compassion. The hall was filled with guests and
Kirby Lodge members are pictured with items collected for Kirby Animal Services in observance of Make a Difference Day.
Kirby will present award Dec. 8
KIRBY – The Kirby Lodge Christmas party will be held on Dec. 8 at 2 p.m. Doors will open at 1 p.m. for a social hour before the catered meal is served. Members are asked to bring a dessert to share.
The Humanitarian of the Year Award will be presented to True Vision Church located in Kirby for its work in the community through its Helping Hands Food Pantry. It holds distribution every second Wednesday of the month.
The next meeting will be held on Jan. 6, 2025, at 7 p.m. The lodge will provide the main dish and members are asked to bring a side or dessert.
pictures of her that ushered in waves of nostalgia through the crowd. The Dollar Store Generals, Lucky Pierres and J. Isaiah Evans and The Boss Tweed filled the ballroom with music as Jo would have liked it.
The annual Oktoberfest was held on Saturday Oct. 12, complete with a German band, German food and German cheer.
The Resource Center will not hold bingo in December. It will resume on Jan. 18 next year, always the third Saturday. Volunteering for this event is still a fun and important opportunity for members.
The lodge calendar for 2025 will be in the works soon.
– Cecilia Phillips
Louise Schuetze holiday party on Dec. 9
SAN ANTONIO – Louise Schuetze Lodge will meet Dec. 9 in the Rathskeller at 6:30 p.m. for the annual Christmas party. Members are asked to bring their favorite finger foods. A gift exchange, $15 value, will be held for those who wish to participate. It is always lots of fun.
A donation was made to Discovery Camps for Make a Difference Day.
The lodge celebrated Thanksgiving with a delicious dinner. The lodge provided the turkey, and members brought delicious side dishes and desserts.
The lodge will donate $500 to Boysville for Christmas. The lodge thanks everyone who donated to the Make a Difference Day project. Many items were collected for Kirby Animal Services.
Linda Gloor and Red Ceilenski celebrated birthdays in November.
Julie Lysse won the $25 attendance-prize, and the split-thepot winners were James McQuatters, B.J. Voight and Jimmy Scheibe.
With the end of the year coming quickly, Agent Judy Schulmerie reminded everyone if they are needing to review their life insurance policies or are in need of more coverage, to contact her.
– Andra Fore
The election of officers was held at the November meeting. All officers were re-elected except for a trustee position. If interested in filling this position, contact a board member. The lodge thanks Donna Scheel for her years of service as cheer person. She has resigned and Candace Scheibe will fill the position.
At the November meeting, President Lisa Robalin along with Carol Grill presented three membership pins. Debbie Gold and Patty McBride were presented 70-year pins and Gayle Loftin was presented a 50-year pin.
Mary Theresa Trujello was the attendance-prize winner, and Cynthia Hughs won the split-the-pot prize. As a special Thanksgiving Day treat, there was a drawing for six door prizes.
Hope to see you next month!
– Reporter
Lodge November meeting.
Membership pins were presented at the Louise Schuetze Lodge November meeting. Pictured are 70-year pin recipients, from left, Debbie Gold and Patty McBride, 50-year pin recipient Gayle Loftin and President Lisa Robalin.
Camille Kraeplin, left, is the recipient of the Columbia Lodge Humanitarian of the Year Award. Cecilia Phillips and Bobby Wilbanks presented the award during the November meeting.
Carol Grill, right, presents a 50year membership pin to Gayle Loftin during the Louise Schuetze
Cameron Lodge pioneer receives pin
Vice President of Sales Teresa Saathoff presented a 60-year membership pin to Troy Mode at the Cameron Lodge November meeting. Officers for 2025 were elected at the planning meeting held at Circle S Barbecue.
Cameron Lodge President David Ehler, right, congratulates Troy Mode, 60-year membership pin recipient at the November meeting.
from
birthdays at the Cameron Lodge November meeting
Mike Gumpp, far right presented the Harmonia Legends Certificate to the McNeel family in memory of the late Jim McNeel at the November meeting. Pictured, from left, are Elizabeth Woodward, Albert McNeel, Ann McNeel, Jim McNeel, Mary McNeel and President Matthew Kraus.
Harmonia will hold party Dec. 12
SAN ANTONIO – The Harmonia Lodge Christmas party will be held Dec. 12. The election of officers for 2025 will be held and toys for the Blue Santa program will be collected. The lodge will provide a ham, and members are asked to bring side dishes and desserts. Bingo games are planned.
At the November meeting
Bernardo
held in the Rathskeller, a turkey dinner was catered by Next Door Catering and members provided desserts. There were approximately 43 in attendance.
Mike Gumpp presented the Harmonia Legends Certificate to the McNeel family in loving memory of the late Jim NcNeel for his faithful service to Har-
monia Lodge and to the Order of the Sons of Hermann in the State of Texas. He was an inspiration to his family, friends, community, church and to mankind by his life-time example of hard work, commitment, and dedication in the spirit of our fraternal motto, Friendship, Love and Loyalty.
– Reporter
Christmas party is on Dec. 11
CAT SPRING – The Bernardo Lodge Christmas party will be held on Dec.11 beginning at 6 p.m. and the meal is at 7 pm. The lodge will provide turkey and dressing, and members are asked to bring a vegetable dish and a dessert.
At the November meeting,
members re-elected the current slate of officers for 2025.
Poinsettias have been ordered from Columbus Junior High and will be sent to members who reside in local nursing homes.
A sympathy card has been sent to the family of Leon Dittmar. Members observed a mo-
ment of silence in his memory. Happy birthday was sung to November birthday celebrants Arlene Trojacek and Billy Hagen. Anniversary celebrants were Joe and Arlene Trojacek, 69 years. Andy Harbich and R.W. Maertz won door prizes.
– Reporter
Round Top plans gift exchange at party
ROUND TOP – The Round Top Lodge Christmas party will be held Sunday, Dec. 8. Social hour will begin at 11 a.m. followed by a short meeting, pin presentations, a catered meal around 12:30 p.m., and an afternoon of a “rob your neighbor” gift exchange and other games.
Members may bring dessert items to share and a gift, $15 value, to participate in the game. The exchange will include a mystery gift. Donations will be collected
for CASA. Donations can be taken to the Round Top Real Estate office or to the Christmas party. Items should be suitable for infants through 18-year-olds. Gift cards are appreciated as well as suitcases and backpacks.
It was reported the lodge’s country store booth held at the Ledbetter Volunteer Fire Dept fundraiser was very successful. Get-well cards were sent to Dwight Nittsce and Lana Limmer.
Happy birthday was sung to Virgie Hall and anniversary
celebrants were Bob and Betty Porter, 49 years.
Attendance-prize winners were Jeanette Hancock, Ray Ullrich, Earl Fenske, Lila Garlin and Linda Mattocks. Thank you to Betty Porter for the door prizes. The winners were Jeanette Schoenst, Margie Stardig, Melanie and Sophie Rauch, Barton Garlin, Mario Trevino, Mert and Leonard Meinkowsy. And thank you to Lila Garlin for the plant. Jo Ann Ullrich was the winner.
– Reporter
Celebrating
were,
left, Douglas Buck, Nanette Wells and Charles Ehler. The lodge Christmas party will be held on Dec. 10 at Circle S Barbecue.
Shining Stars
KAMRYN WILLIAMS is a member of Flatonia Lodge. She is in fifth grade and her favorite foods are Hello Fresh meals.
Kamryn’s activities include softball, drawing and gardening, and she likes watching YouTube. She has three pet dogs, Sasha, Oxy and Ellie.
Sign up to be a Shining Star!
Shining Stars are featured in the Hermann Sons Life newspaper and on the Hermann Sons Life website. They also receive a fun packet in the mail. To register, fill out the form below or the online form at hermannsonslife.org.
Go to Member Benefits-Shining Stars. Be sure to include a photo.
Registration Form
Become a Shining Star! Send us a photo of your Hermann Sons Life junior member, fill out this form and mail to: Member Benefits, P.O. Box 1941, San Antonio, TX 78297. More information and this fillable form are also available online at hermannsonslife.org Shining Stars are featured in our newspaper and on our website.
Christmas Word Search
Christmas Crossword
It is OK with my parents that I am featured as a “Shining Star” in the Hermann Sons
newspaper, website and any other advertising publications.
Across
2. What’s another name for Christmas songs?
3. Who stole Christmas?
6. Who said ‘Bah-humbug?’
9. Who pulls Santa’s sleigh?
10. Who was born on Christmas?
11. What is hung by the chimney?
12. What does Santa put under the tree?
Down
1. Something you might leave Santa to drink.
2. Something you might leave for Santa to eat.
4. Which reindeer has a red nose?
5. Who delivers presents on Christmas Eve?
7. What day is December 25th?
8. What does Santa ride in?
13. Something for the top of the tree.
T h is Christmas , we at H e rmann Sons Life extend our he a rtfe lt gratit ude t o yo u , our value d m embers . A s w e celebrat e the seas o n of giving , w e ar e reminde d of the importanc e of f amily communit y, and the bond s that mak e lif e meaningful.
Th ank y ou f or being a Herm a n n S on s Lif e Member and f or trusting u s wi th your L if e Insuranc e, Annuity and Medicare needs . W e look f orwar d t o s erving y ou in the coming year a nd wish y ou a prosperou s and happy New Yea r.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from all of us at Hermann Sons Life!
