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 1941w 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
Barbara Anderle
Eulla Krueger
Shirley Faske
Cheryl Garcia
Bradley Klein
Angela Netherton
Robin Maertz
Joyce Kneupper
Judith Schulmeier
Gilbert Shelby
Marsha Kocurek
Pat Klotz
Happy New Year! I hope you had a wonderful holiday season and were able to enjoy time with family and had a chance to recharge As with every new year, 2023 brings new hope and an opportunity to start fresh Dave and I were able to attend several lodge Christmas parties and pin presentations in December We were overwhelmed by the warmth and generosity of our members Our members are some of the most remarkable people and we were certainly blessed to be able to enjoy the season with so many of you Thank you so much for all the kindness, hospitality and gifts you shared with us . Our hearts are full!
While we all had a great deal of anticipation for good things in 2022, it still proved to be a chal-
Tommy Daum
Robert Prewitt
Sherrie Stoddard
Kerry Ginn
Anna Larie Keith
Charles Knibbe
Pat Spradling
Gary Falkenberg
David Lewis
Lori Todd
Robin Czarnek President/CEOlenging year for so many Despite the challenges, you have risen to the occasion time and again and still donated your service, gifts and money to help others Through your generosity, we were able to help several organizations in 2022 including TruLight 127, Canyon Lake Animal Shelter, Heart of Texas SPCA, the Uvalde community and countless other organizations We hope that you keep up the great work in your communities as it does make a difference!
Our work to help the families in Uvalde continues If you are
led to help, we are accepting donations to help the Uvalde survivors There is much work and healing to be done in the Uvalde community and they can certainly use your help We are blessed to be able to partner with a bereavement center to sponsor a grief camp for the surviving children and help advance their healing For more information on how you can help, please contact myself, Cecily Kelly or Tammi Sutherland for more information
As you make your 2023 resolutions and plans, my hope is that you’ll find new ways to serve and engage in your community as well as spread the word about Hermann Sons Life We are working to find new ways to serve you, as well as to revitalize the existing living benefits
and fraternalism we offer We have brought Medicare to you and have recently increased our annuity interest rates to offer a more competitive return for you, but there is still work to be done
The pandemic took a significant toll on businesses and Hermann Sons Life was no exception We would love to see our dance classes, camp, lodge meetings, etc be bursting at the seams from attendance, but we need your help in making sure those in your community know what we offer and how special it is to be a part of the HSL community Thank you for all you do to make HSL the special organization it is . I wish you a 2023 filled with the hope the new year brings, along with many blessings, good health and happiness
PFLUGERVILLE – Gather-n-give, an organization based in Pflugerville, strives to provide essentials for families experiencing a crisis
While volunteering at a local food pantry, Gail Wilhelm, Gather-n-Give president, was speaking with a grandmother who
told Gail that her grandson couldn’t participate in gym class because he didn’t have the right footwear and Gail connected the grandmother to someone who could help This was the beginning of Gather-N-Give Connections
Over the years Gail along with Bill Crisp
and Donna Lyons have worked together to advocate for the less fortunate by partnering with local churches, businesses and individuals who help to obtain the resources needed to help families in need
The Hermann Sons Life Board of Directors is elected to serve a four-year term at the quadrennial convention in May by the delegation of members. We provide leadership and set strategy for Hermann Sons Life to ensure the necessary financial, human and other resources are in place to meet all objectives. We meet and provide the obvious and necessary governance, but we also provide the executive team with varied core competencies, experiences and understanding of trends occurring in and outside of our industries.
As you have seen and heard, President and CEO Robin Czarnek was hired to meet future goals. Since her promotion, Medicare has been introduced as a benefit to our membership. We feel like this will be a great way to reach out and help our members. We have heard of so many people who reach the age of 65 and don’t know where to go or who to turn to. There is no local
Medicare office in your town or community. Now Hermann Sons Life can help! If you have Medicare already, our agents are still available to evaluate what you have to see if it is in fact the best for you. Let us take a look at your product and help you.
We hope to introduce new interest rates for annuities right after the first of the year. We are waiting on approval from the state and as soon as we have approval, we will be ready to serve our loyal members. Be on the lookout for what we have to offer soon or ask your local agent in January!
We meet quarterly and since the convention in May have held three meetings. We have taken to heart what we have heard from members. We have already met with our actuary and attorney about new products and met with our asset managers along with additional asset managers to discuss our financial portfolio. We have great partnerships with
them and will continue working with them toward the development of more products and to increase our portfolio in the future to maintain our wonderful member benefits.
Talking about member benefits, the youth Camps and Retirement Home in the beautiful town of Comfort in the hill country are in great condition. Members will soon be able to book a room at the Home to stay and visit. Lodges and members made donations to help remodel the annex building to create a rental space for members. The youth Camp facilities are also available to rent. If you know someone who would like to rent the Camp facility for a wedding or a church camp retreat, boy or girl scout retreat or something similar, give Camp a call. We are here to serve you!
Our Executive Team and their staff are a vital part of our business. They take care of all day-today operations. We are so proud
of each and every one of them. We as a board do not report to the office daily. We all live all around the state. The Executive Team, along with their staff, are what makes Hermann Sons Life the amazing company it is along with all of you loyal members!
The Board of Directors and the Executive Team have been traveling to local lodges in December to spread Christmas cheer and have enjoyed visiting with
members throughout the state. We hope you had a wonderful Christmas and want to wish each of you a Happy New Year!
Please keep Hermann Sons Life in mind as you are visiting and keeping your family traditions alive. If you have a newlywed or a new baby in the family, invite them to become a member. We welcome them to join us and are here to help you “protect the ones you love!”
existing policies. A resident of San Antonio, Matt is a graduate of the University of Texas at San Antonio
a degree in business administration.
EVERY WEDNESDAY – It’s Swing Dance Night in the San Antonio Home Association Ballroom, 525 S. St. Mary’s St., San Antonio. Arrive at 7 p.m. for a lesson and stick around for the dance party that starts at 8 p.m. Cost is $15 per person for the lessons and dance or $5 to enjoy the dance after 8:15 p.m.
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.
EVERY THURSDAY – It’s Game Night every Thursday night at Brenham Lodge. Doors open at 5 p.m. Games start at 7 p.m. Everyone is welcome.
EVERY SUNDAY – Foxtrot Ronde Rounds lessons are taught each Sunday at 2 p.m. in the San Antonio Home Association Ballroom, 525 S. St. Mary’s St., San Antonio.
10-11 - The Retirement Home Chili Cook-off will be held. Look for details in the February issue.
22 - The annual Volunteer Work Day will be held at Camp. All are welcome to help get the Camp sites ready. Lunch and dinner will be provided.
6 - Join Hands Day will be observed. This is one of two days during the year when Hermann Sons Life lodges come together to do great things in their communities.
A full summer of Hermann Sons Life Camp is being planned. Watch upcoming issues of the newspaper for registration details.
JUNE
14 - Flag Day is observed. Lodges are encouraged to honor the flag at a special ceremony or at the June lodge meeting.
24 - Family Fun Day at Six Flags Fiesta Texas will be held. Look for details in the coming months.
JULY
29-30 - The Hermann Sons Life Statewide Bowling Tournament will be held the last weekend in July at Bandera Bowling Center in San Antonio.
28 - Make a Difference Day will be observed. This is one of two days during the year when Hermann Sons Life lodges come together to do great things in their communities.
If you would like to see your lodge’s event listed here and in the Events section of the Hermann Sons Life website, call Elaine Hernandez Soto, 210-226-9261, ext. 279 or 1-800-234-4124, ext. 279 or email to elaines@hermannsonslife.org.
Editor/Communications Director
Elaine Hernandez Soto 210-226-9261, ext. 279 email: elaines@hermannsonslife.org Assistant Editor/Assistant Communications Director Hannah Ruiz-Gruver 210-226-9261, ext. 102 email: hannahrg@hermannsonslife.org Fax: 1-888-443-3377 or 210-892-0252 Website: www.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 Deadline for each monthly issue is the 10th of the month of publication.
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.
I hope everyone enjoyed the Christmas holiday with friends and family and wish everyone a happy New Year! In December, I had the opportunity to attend lodge Christmas parties in Comfort, Dunlay, Schulenburg and Dallas and enjoyed visiting with members.
The Sales Department is ex-
cited for the coming year. The interest rate for new annuities is increasing to 4 percent, and our agents are ready to assist existing and new members with their annuity and life insurance needs.
Did anyone think of family financial protection as their New Year’s Eve resolution? Life insurance is a great way to take care of your family especially since we never know what the future
Retired Agent Norma Bruns, left, was recognized by Vice President of Sales Teresa Saathoff during the Comfort Lodge Christmas party for her many years of service. Norma has been a member of Hermann Sons Life since 1949 and is a member of Comfort Lodge. She became an agent in 1989 and was an award-winning agent consistently recognized as a top producer. Norma served on the Retirement Home Committee and the Laws Committee and was named Fraternalist of the Year by the American Fraternal Alliance in 2015 . She retired in December.
Hermann Sons Life congratulates the Napier family. J. Mark, Elizabeth, Sarah, Joe and J. Alexander Napier are a 100 Percent Hermann Sons Life Family. The family resides in San Antonio and are members of Pershing Lodge.
holds. Leaving your family financially protected if you were to pass is a great feeling and you won’t have to worry that they could lose their home or not have money for a college education. Getting life insurance is an incredible New Year’s Eve resolution and will give you and your family peace of mind.
Our sales staff is here to help you figure out how much pro-
tection your family needs and to help you determine what makes the most sense for your family’s budget.
In the new year, our goal is to bring on more licensed and competitive agents to cover the state of Texas. With some of our longtime agents retiring, we need to fill in the gaps to provide the best customer experience.
If you have your life insurance
license and are looking for a parttime job, we would love to hear from you.
Our insurance sells itself because with a Hermann Sons Life policy our members not only get financial protection, they also get living benefits to enjoy now like dance classes and summer Camp for juniors, a Retirement Home, community service opportunities and more.
Vice President of Sales Teresa Saathoff has announced David B. Applewhite has joined the Hermann Sons Life sales team.
A resident of San Antonio, David has been in insurance sales since 2005 with experience in life, disability, accident, cancer as well as critical illness products.
A widower, David has three children and one grandchild.
His hobbies include golf and fishing.
“We are so pleased David has joined our team,” Teresa said. “His experience with various products will be a great asset for Hermann Sons Life.”
The Sales Department is recognizing 12 more recommenders for the month of November.
This brings the total to 260 members recommending and a total of 308 new members to Hermann Sons Life in 2022.
The winners of the $50 gift cards for November are Derek Hoelscher of Ellinger Lodge and Deborah Engelke of Stern Lodge.
Congratulations to the following November Recommenders:
Brian Beran, Moulton Judith Schulmeier
Carolyn Crawford, Bexar Lisa Rozacky
Deborah Engelke, Stern
Derek Hoelscher, Ellinger Gerald Ziemnicki
Warner Mangold, Castroville Glenford Boehme
Garrett Mills, Fredericksburg Curtis Dishman
Gene Moellenberg, Rutersville Curtis Dishman
McKenzie Osburn, Kirby Angela Netherton
Lillian Reimherr, La Vernia Roxy Pruski
Jennifer Stratton, Edelweiss-Magnolia
Brooke Winston, Seguin
Rainey Zoeller, Comfort
Steele
Marlin Tanneberger
Normagene Bruns
Adkins
Roxy Pruski • 210-218-6204
Alice
Sheri McBryde • 361-876-6893
Eddie Ramon • 361-701-0480
Atascosa
Eulla Krueger • 210-863-0546
Austin
Shirley Kuhen Faske • 512-789-3975
Brad Klein, FIC • 512-497-0678
Beeville
Elsa Del Bosque • 361-319-5214
Bernardo/Columbus
Terrel Maertz • -979-732-1727
Boerne/San Antonio
Pamela Poulk • 210-753-2626
Boerne
Lisa Rozacky • 210-838-3306
Brenham
Gary Falkenberg, FICF • 713-466-6069
Bulverde
Debbie Allen • 210-326-9753
Clif Klabunde, FIC • 210-219-6142
Caldwell
Donnie Blinka • 979-596-1309
Castroville
Glenford Boehme, FIC • 210-219-9792
Michael Franke • 830-444-4877 or 361-290-3577
Jacqulynn Herrmann • 210-275-0429
Reagan Haby Rogiers • 210-695-5588
Laurie Steele • 210-414-4755
Cibolo/Schertz
Tracy Campos • 210-388-2779
Judith Schulmeier, FIC • 210-667-1938
Clifton
Sterling Goolsby • 254-709-5764
Comfort
Norma Bruns, FIC • 210-912-7511
Dennis Wigginton • 832-278-9636
Converse
Dan Boenig • 210-705-1815
Coupland
Brad Klein, FIC • 512-497-0678
Corpus Christi
Elsa Del Bosque • 361-319-5214
Sheri McBryde • 361-876-6893
Crockett
Pat Fritz, FIC • 832-454-4483
Cuero
Wayne Tiffin • 361-564-8144
Dallas
Mark Mundy • 214-202-8442
Gilbert Shelby • 214-289-1815
Devine
Laurie Steele • 210-414-4755
Cynthia Sultenfuss • 210-219-6409
Robin Sultenfuss • 210-854-4443
Dustie Valdez • 210-620-6466
Dennis Wigginton • 832-278-9636
Floresville/Poth
Beth Cutsinger • 210-325-6667
Floresville
Gladys Rowley • 210-219-6964
Lynn Wiede • 210-289-1378
Fort Worth
Sandra Jones, FIC • 817-781-7155
Fredericksburg
Todd Bierschwale • 830-997-2130
George West
Tracy Caron • 361-449-0348
Georgetown
Brad Klein, FIC • 512-497-0678
Linda Mattocks • 512-736-9988
Gonzales
Bobbie Polasek • 830-672-6317
Reagan Haby Rogiers • 210-695-5588
Rayna Sue Irwin • 210-710-7038
Hondo
Jacqulynn Herrmann • 210-275-0429
Laurie Steele • 210-414-4755
Margie Zinsmeyer • 830-426-0960
Houston
Don P. Baker • 713-581-4366
Gary Falkenberg, FICF • 713-466-6069 or 713-899-4138
Jennifer Stryk Garner • 832-596-942
Terrel Maertz • 979-732-1727
Gerald Ziemnicki • 713-622-9001
Jourdanton
Laurie Steele • 210-414-4755
Valerie M. Vick • 210-748-5598
Karnes City
Elsa Del Bosque • 361-319-5214
Katy Terrel Maertz • 979-732-1727 Robert Muniz • 281-986-0357
Kilgore
Alexander Ramsey • 903-522-2285
Kirby
Angela Netherton • 210-831-1293
La Grange
Linda Mattocks • 512-736-9988
La Vernia
Vicki Hinojosa • 210-338-5002
Marlin Tanneberger, FIC • 210-827-7229 Pauline Young • 210-338-5118
Lockhart
Janice Kuhen • 512-393-1431
Lubbock
Garrett Czarnek • 210-315-8152
Marion
Lorene Bielke, FIC • 830-420-2380 830-305-6900 (cell) Tami Smith • 361-648-1025
Moulton
Judith Schulmeier, FIC • 210-667-1938
Needville /Rosenberg
Chris Stoeltje • 979-559-6127
New Braunfels
Becki Lucas Carley • 361-550-9358 Britney Cross • 281-450-6291 Brenda Heulitt • 830-832-1674 Shirley Huebinger • 830-629-1196 Clif Klabunde, FIC • 210-219-6142 Celeste Salge • 830-620-8515
Diana P. Moreno • 830-379-2244 (office) 830-534-4989 (cell)
Orange Grove
Paula Gebert • 361-701-7527
Pflugerville
Julius Dubcak • 512-791-7822
Port Lavaca
Nancy Annette Walraven • 361-237-1757
Refugio
Misty Skrobarcek • 210-215-3453
Round Top/Rutersville
Linda Mattocks • 512-736-998
210-527-9113 • 877-437-6266 888-839-7667
Vice President of Sales Teresa Saathoff 210-422-6996
teresas@hermannsonslife.org
Compliance Director
Ana Vasquez, FLMI, AIRC, FIC anav@hermannsonslife.org
Administrative Assistant kathrynm@hermannsonslife.org
Regional Sales Manager
John Pacini 210-844-7182 johnp@hermannsonslife.org
Regional Sales Manager
Curtis Dishman 281-414-8395 curtisd@hermannsonslife.org
San Antonio
Debbie Allen • 210-326-9753
David P. Applewhite • 210-547-6963
Ruth Bailey • 210-707-3652
Rayna Sue Irwin • 210-710-7038
Clif Klabunde, FIC • 210-219-6142
Chris Naughton • 210-365-2009
Gladys Rowley • 210-219-6964
Sylvia Zapata • 210-426-4481
San Marcos
Shirley Kuhen Faske • 512-789-3975 Janice Kuhen • 512-393-1431
Schulenburg/Weimar
Mary K. Seifert • 979-743-0312
Annette D. Roecker • 830-832-0724
Tina B. Ynfante • 210-859-1973
Spring Branch
Debbie Allen • 210-326-9753
Gloria Gass • 830-885-4405
John E. Moore Jr. • 210-621-7842
Stockdale
Ronald Wiatrek • 210-771-4354
Victoria
Elsa Del Bosque • 361-319-5214
Jason Hybner • 361-652-6924
Misty Skrobarcek • 210-215-3453
Laura Thigpen • 361-676-8307
Waxahachie
Mark Mundy • 214-202-8442
Yorktown Judy Wolf • 361-564-2452
MELINDA B. HARGROVE
Boerne Lodge
Died March 16, 2016 • Age 58
GERALD B. MUTCHLER
Harmonia Lodge Died Jan. 3, 2020 • Age 88
CARL L. ZORN
Del Rio Lodge Died Aug. 9, 2021 • Age 64
JOYCE E. WILCOX
Corpus Christi Lodge Died Oct. 18, 2021 • Age 87
BERNICE M. LEHMANN
La Grange Lodge Died Feb. 23, 2022 • Age 99
MIRIAM E. ANDERSON
Da Costa Lodge Died June 19, 2022 • Age 65
ROBERT G. MOCZYGEMBA
Kirby Lodge
Died June 29, 2022 • Age 74
AARON D. REESE
Schwertner Lodge Died July 13, 2022 • Age 43
LONNIE E. LENZ
Bryan Lodge
Died July 24, 2022 • Age 69
STEPHANIE L. STOVER
Louise Schuetze Lodge
Died July 30, 2022 • Age 60
DARLENE WILLIAMS
San Patricio County Lodge Died Aug. 7, 2022 • Age 90
LESTER W. JOHNS
Anton Wenzel Lodge Died Aug. 12, 2022 • Age 90
ORLINE K. KOLM
Hochheim-Prairie Lodge Died Aug. 16, 2022 • Age 87
ALLEN N. WIEDERSTEIN
Marion Lodge Died Aug. 24, 2022 • Age 70
GORDON R. WALLECK
Karnes City Lodge Died Aug. 30, 2022 • Age 61
ERNEST J. NOVOSAD
Moulton Lodge Died Sept. 2, 2022 • Age 72
RICHARD L. EYNARD Hondo Lodge Died Sept. 5, 2022 • Age 30
GUS F. SOMMER JR. Flatonia Lodge Died Sept. 14, 2022 • Age 91
ROBERT LOUIS PREUSS, JR.
Donor: Brenham Lodge
ROBERT L. BADING
Donors: New Braunfels Lodge
RAYMOND A. HENGST
Donors: Joyce Best and Family
LUCILLE PFEIFFER
Donors: Boerne Lodge
LEON HATTERMANN
Donors: New Bielau Lodge
VERLENE M. NOAK
Round Top Lodge Died Sept. 14, 2022 • Age 85
ELVA R. WENZEL
New Braunfels Lodge Died Sept. 16, 2022 • Age 94
THOMAS D. COLEMAN Harmonia Lodge Died Sept. 16, 2022 • Age 77
PATRICIA HESTER Columbia Lodge Died Sept. 17, 2022 • Age 82
EDNA R. HURTA New Bern Lodge Died Sept. 18, 2022 • Age 95
NEVA J. ELLIS Pershing Lodge Died Sept. 21, 2022 • Age 85
JANIE M. SITKA
Rosenberg-Richmond Lodge Died Sept. 24, 2022 • Age 86
DONALD J. WENGER Manchaca Lodge Died Sept. 26, 2022 • Age 78
FLOIS M. CARTER
Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge Died Sept. 27, 2022 • Age 95
ANGELINA J. KLEIBER Plum Lodge Died Sept. 30, 2022 • Age 88
DONALD L. PHILPOT La Vernia Lodge Died Oct. 1, 2022 • Age 67
LOUIS J. HABY Dunlay Lodge Died Oct. 7, 2022 • Age 90
NICOLE KNIPPA
Vineta Lodge Died Oct. 8, 2022 • Age 55
MARGARET M. CRENWELGE
Fredericksburg Lodge Died Oct. 8, 2022 • Age 96
WILLIAM M. JAMES JR. Fort Worth Lodge Died Oct. 9, 2022 • Age 88
LUCILLE S. PFEIFFER Boerne Lodge Died Oct. 9, 2022 • Age 103
ROBERT D. WOLFF Kirby Lodge Died Oct. 9, 2022 • Age 89
TERRY R. DAVIS Giddings Lodge Died Oct. 9, 2022 • Age 87
IRENE F. LINDIG
La Coste Lodge Died Oct. 10, 2022 • Age 72
PAUL F. HOFFMANN
Converse Lodge Died Oct. 10, 2022 • Age 93
CHERYL A. MAUGER Louise Schuetze Lodge Died Oct. 12, 2022 • Age 74
ROSIE L. KARNEI Weesatche Lodge Died Oct. 12, 2022 • Age 90
CHERYL L. KNIGHT New Braunfels Lodge Died Oct. 12, 2022 • Age 70
BARBARA N. WICK Louise Schuetze Lodge Died Oct. 14, 2022 • Age 85
RONALD SCHAUTSCHICK Giddings Lodge Died Oct. 14, 2022 • Age 70
ROSE M. WILDER Louise Schuetze Lodge Died Oct. 16, 2022 • Age 85
DONALD O. HUEBNER Shelby Lodge Died Oct. 18, 2022 • Age 78
DAVID W. LYSSY Gulf Lodge Died Oct. 20, 2022 • Age 61
VIOLET L. HANISCH
La Grange Lodge Died Oct. 22, 2022 • Age 101
HARRY G. DIETZ SR. Seguin Lodge Died Oct. 27, 2022 • Age 88
DAVID C. MAGEL Jourdanton Lodge Died Oct. 28, 2022 • Age 72
ELAINE R. KROEGER
La Coste Lodge Died Oct. 30, 2022 • Age 74
MARILYN S. VOIGT Comfort Lodge Died Oct. 30, 2022 • Age 76
LEOLA M. GOURLEY San Marcos Lodge Died Nov. 3, 2022 • Age 84
The names of deceased members are listed on this page only after a death claim has been filed.
MICHELE K. MELETON ADELE G. MARTIN
Donor: Houston Lodge
Cont’d from Pg. 2
Families that have no one to turn to are found through referrals from social workers, teachers and churches, their needs are assessed to help find a home, and to get the basic necessities.
Gather-N-Give is always looking for donations of unused items to continue with their mission, items they accept include.
• Backpacks and school supplies
• Sheet sets, blankets, pillows (all sizes), towels, washcloths, mat/rug
• Toasters, coffee makers, utensils, pots & pans, flatware, baking pans, dishes, bowls, etc.
• Personal hygiene products such as shampoo, conditioner, bath soap, body wash
• Cleaning products–laundry detergent, fabric softener, dishwasher detergent, toilet bowl cleaner, glass and multipurpose cleaner/Clorox/wipes, trash bags
• All paper products–napkins, paper towels, toilet tissue
• Baby and adult needs–baby and adult diapers, all baby needs
In addition, monetary donations can be made on gather-ngive.org or mailed to:
Gather-N-Give Connections P.O. Box 922
Pflugerville, TX 78691
To learn more about Gather-NGive visit their website, gathern-give.org.
BEVERLY P. OELTJEN
Austin Lodge
DENNIS W. PETERS
Cuero Family Lodge
LILLIE M. HOSEK
ROBERT B. WEHMEYER Da Costa Lodge
EDWARD MENVILLE JR.
DIANA F. SOKOL
Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge
GLEN C. SMITH El Campo Lodge
MARILYN A. MAREK Ellinger Lodge
CLINTON J. STAUDT Fredericksburg Lodge
MARY R. CROCKETT General Bee Lodge
FRANCES A. BENDELE Louise Schuetze Lodge
ADELINE I. SCHUBERT
BETTY J. WISIAN Niederwald Lodge
ALFREDA L. PENNINGTON
ETHELYN A. RICHTER Poth Lodge
ALOIS KEILERS
Rutersville Lodge
JEAN O. SCHIMCEK Schulenburg Lodge
EVELYN S. KUHN Vineta Lodge
BEVERLY E. WOODS Yorktown Lodge
JUNE J. HART
Bellville Lodge
RUTH A. TROJACEK Bernardo Lodge
CAROL A. MCNETT Cat Spring Lodge
JAMES E. SCHRADE Columbia Lodge
DEBRA M. NUCE
Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge
KENNETH E. PFIESTER
Fredericksburg Lodge
JOSEPH A. GREEN Harmonia Lodge
ELOISE K. CLAYTON Hondo Victory Lodge
MARGARET S. FITCHETTE Houston Lodge
SANDRA R. BUNDICK Kirby Lodge
PAMELA M. MCBRIDE
PATRICIA A. MCBRIDE
LINDA H. MCNEAL Louise Schuetze Lodge
MICHAEL D. VADER Marion Lodge
ERNEST R. HOMANN JR. RICHARD L. SCHIWITZ Niederwald Lodge
ROBERT W. NAUERT Richland Lodge
RONALD R. HAUCK Shelby Lodge
FRED A. BROWN Siemering Lodge
MARTIN J. HOLUB Anton Wenzel Lodge
SUSAN A. SKANSE Austin Lodge
RUTH E. NAQUIN Bellville Lodge
DONNA R. BUECHE SHARON E. HALLIDAY Brunhilde Lodge
GREGORY C. HAVERLAND Coupland Lodge
BETH R. KNEZEK Da Costa Lodge
TERESA DOBSON Dallas Lodge
LISA D. ZORN Del Rio Lodge
JOHN H. JASTER Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge
BRUCE W. KUBENA
SHARON M. KUBICEK Ellinger Lodge
JEFFREY B. COOKE PAUL T. GAGE Harmonia Lodge
JONATHAN W. ROBINSON NANETTE D. ROBINSON Kypfer-Salge Lodge
ALLEN R. COLDEWEY La Vernia Lodge
DONNA M. WRIGHT Louise Schuetze Lodge
RUSSELL S. LUDDEKE CAYE H. POWADA Marion Lodge
WILLIAM K. OTTO Needville Lodge
ELIZABETH SMITH New Braunfels Lodge
SUSAN R. HUMPHRIES
SHARON G. MASTERS SHIRLEY L. PERKINS
LESTER L. ZAIONTZ Pershing Lodge
JUDY D. WEYEL Prinz Solms Lodge
ROBERT W. JONES III MATTHEW B. JONES Siemering Lodge
RICKY A. ENGELKE Stern Lodge
WAYNE A. ZERCHER Twin Sisters Lodge
KATHY F. NAEGELIN
LONNIE M. NAEGELIN Vineta Lodge
RANDALL F. HAWKS Austin Lodge
ELTON B. ANDERSON JR. LISA M. CARPENTER Brenham Lodge
ELLARENE HAIRELL
LORETTA M. HOBBS JOYCE E. MORRIS BARBARA A. NILSSON WELDON H. NILSSON Da Costa Lodge
ALBERT E. GOLDSBERRY JR. SHARON K. SHAW Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge
CLINT J. HILDRETH MARY E. MOERBE Giddings Lodge
ERNST R. WEIRICH GARY C. YOUNG Harmonia Lodge
ARTHUR G. HERMANN III THOMAS C. MACHA WILLIAM J. MACHA
KERMIT L. THIELE JR. KERMIT L. THIELE MICHAEL O. THIELE MILDRED J. THIELE GARLAN F. WEBER Hochheim-Prairie Lodge
Gladys Dziuk has received her 75-year membership pin. She is a member of Poth Lodge and has been a member since May 1, 1947.
KELLY J. MOAK DOREEN M. ROLLINS La Vernia Lodge
LAURIE M. DAVIS Lockhart Lodge
CHRISTINE SZPAK Louise Schuetze Lodge
MARCIE L. HERRY GREGORY MCFARLAND New Braunfels Lodge
BRIAN C. DAILEY NANCY A. SMITH Niederwald Lodge
MARK W. LUNDGREN PAUL W. ROSENQUIST TAIMI N. ROSENQUIST Old Glory Lodge
LORI M. BAUML MARY F. PALITZA RAYMOND E. PALITZA Pershing Lodge
JAMES C. CHERNOSKY LEONARD B. MILLER Plum Lodge
JOHN E. FRELS Shiner Lodge
CHARLES K. POGGENPOHL Spring Branch Lodge
The
J.C.
I hope you had a lovely Christmas and I wish you a Happy New Year! Now its time for the serious business of preparing the best possible summer Camp experience for our junior members and you can help!
We want to keep growing our summer Camp program. Does your son or daughter have a friend that wants to attend Camp? Talk to them about our summer Camp. Let them know about our dance classes and all of the community and good works we do as an organization. Put them in touch with your local agents. The sooner the better to make sure the paperwork is completed before the summer and sessions begin to fill.
Enrollment will begin in March! We’re already staffing up nicely. I’m always on the lookout for quality individuals to work with our junior members as counselors. The minimum age for counselors is 18 if the staff member did not participate in our CIT programs.
I’m really excited about the upcoming summer.
I will be needing medical staff this summer (RNs, LPNs, EMTs, CNAs). If you, or anyone
you know is a nurse, please have them reach out to me at 909-362-9058 or ianb@hermannsonslife.org. The medical staff position is a paid position at Camp and includes paid tuition for their child(ren). They do not need to be Hermann Sons Life members for a paid role at Camp.
I always want to make sure the parents feel included and part of the summer Camp experience. A Parent Handbook is being updated to provide our parents with instructions, directions and information. From drop off to pick up, we really want to work with our parents in helping provide the safest summer Camp available for our junior members.
To help our parents, and potential camp parents, we will be conducting Zoom sessions as a forum to provide valuable information for our parents along with a forum for parents (and campers) to ask questions. We have currently scheduled three Zoom sessions at different times and on different days to hopefully allow you to participate in at least one of them. The dates are Saturday, March 11, 11 a.m.; Sunday, March 19, 11 a.m.; and Wednesday, April 5, 6 p.m.
Please email me at ianb@hermannsonslife.org to get on the mailing list for details on these Zoom calls.
The Hermann Sons Life Official YouTube page has wonderful videos online to help our parents and new campers learn more about our Camp. There are short video tours of both Riverside and Hilltop camps. Also on our YouTube Page you will find instructional videos of some of our more popular line dances, and you’ll be able to hear, see and practice some of our Camp songs.
https://www.youtube.com/ channel/UCRhtPPY88bAaXmk1OjI2KCg
The Board, President and CEO Robin Czarnek and Vice President of Member Benefits Cecily Kelly have been great in helping me get what we need to run an exceptional camp. Some lodges have also been amazing at helping and donating to the Camp. My desire is to provide our campers and staff with the best possible Camp facility and equipment. Any help the lodges can provide is always welcome. This is just a partial list of the improvements we have made and will be making this year before Camp begins. This is certainly not a complete list.
The bathrooms of Mosquito, Jack Rabbit and Catfish cabins have been completely refurbished. They look amazing and I think our campers and staff will really enjoy them!
The Hilltop pool will be getting a 40’ x 20’ sunshade structure. This will provide our campers a wonderful area for pool parties and free swim.
The Hilltop dining hall and HHAAC building have some roofing issues. Both the kitchen of the dining aall and the restrooms in the HHAAC building will be replaced before the summer.
Many thanks to the Houston Home Association for its gener-
ous donation made in 2012.
We have a wonderful group returning to rent the facility in June. We’ve hosted Girl Scout groups, weddings, banquets and proms at the facility. Please spread the word. Everytime we are able to utilize the facility for rentals throughout the year it provides me the opportunity to invest more into improving the facility and providing our junior members the best possible summer camp experience.
I’ve received a few calls from lodges asking if there is anything their lodge can help us with for next summer. I love this sense of community and appreciate whatever the lodges can do. If any of your members are planning on updating their furniture, I’m looking for some gently used couches for our staff lounges (we can pick up). I’m also looking to add more picnic tables and shade. If any of our members are knowledgeable of the best trees to plant – please reach out. I’d
love to begin a project of planting trees that will grow to provide for our junior members in the next 30-40 years!
The annual Volunteer Work Day at Camp will be held April 22, 2023. All are welcome to come by and help us get the Camp sites ready. Lunch and dinner will be provided. Many hands make light work.
I have had the pleasure of visiting with many lodges to discuss Camp and our plans for the summer. I hope to visit with many more lodges through the winter and spring. PLEASE INVITE ME. I’d like to attend your meetings to discuss the Camp program and share why camp is such a special and important part of Hermann Sons Life.
I’m here to serve our campers and parents. If you’d like to ask questions in a more private forum, please do not hesitate to call me at 830-995-3223. I’m always available to discuss Camp with our membership.
By popular request, I am excited to announce the first monthly article for Howie’s Happenings. It was amazing to have so many of you read about Howie and ask about him. My own lodge in New Braunfels came to the consensus that Howie needed a place in the newspaper since he made his entrance by way of Hermann Sons Life.
Many of you have probably heard Howie’s story, but if not, I will share the short version. Dave and I lost both of our pups in 2022 after being a part of our family for many years. I promised Dave I wouldn’t get another dog until after the holidays due to all the travelling to lodges for Christmas parties. Well God had other plans. I did an interview for Kens 5 TV and while backstage a dog rescue was also waiting for their interview and I met Howie.
He had been dumped in tall grass on a back country road with a life-threatening hernia and covered in ticks. Friends
of Dogs at Guadalupe County
Animal Control and Heart of Texas SPCA, a rescue in Boerne, rescued Howie and raised funds to get him the surgery he needed to save his life. VCA Henderson Pass Animal Hospital operated on Howie’s hernia and helped him heal through daily wound care and keeping him calm.
Howie is now a thriving, active puppy and we are so very grateful for all the wonderful people that worked together
to save Howie.
Howie is a very smart, playful and velvety soft puppy who loves his people. He is a snuggler and is always up to take a nap with you and never turns away a puppaccino.
Having Howie become a Czarnek has been a huge blessing in our lives, and I can’t wait to share his adventures with you in the coming months! In the meantime, please enjoy the photos of our most recent adventures with him.
Howie loves to play, especially when Krypto is visiting! Krypto is Haley’s dog. Howie will play and work himself into a frenzy until he needs a nice, long nap to recover!
COMFORT – Comfort Lodge will meet Monday, Feb.13, at the VFW Hall. The social will begin at 4:30 p.m. followed by a meal at 6 p.m. The installation of officers will be held.
For the first time since December 2019, the lodge was able to hold a Christmas party.
Vice President of Sales Teresa Saathoff was a special guest and presented membership pins.
Pamela Nentwich was recognized as the 2022 Humanitarian of the Year. Pamela continually finds ways to serve those around her.
– ReporterVice President of Sales Teresa Saathoff, right, presented membership pins during the Comfort Lodge Christmas party. Pictured are, President Hunter Miller, from left, Paul Pankratz, 60 years; Jimmy Holub, 70 years; Steven Jung, 60 years; and Richard Stoat, 60 years.
Vice President of Sales Teresa Saathoff, right, presented a 60year membership pin to Karen Ann Birkelbach during the Comfort Lodge Christmas party.
Comfort Lodge President Hunter Miller, right, presented the Humanitarian of the Year award to Pamela Nentwich during the Christmas party.
Poth Lodge President Pam Cutsinger, left, presented the Humanitarian of the Year Award
cember
POTH – Poth met Dec. 4 and presented the Humanitarian of the Year Award to Kim Beasley.
Kim has been a substitute teacher since 2013 for elementary through high school grades. She has been married for 30 years, has
eight children and cares for her mother who suffers dementia. In her spare time, she is a guide and mentor for Rachel’s Challenge.
Kim serves as president of the Poth Pirates Band Boosters Club. She oversees the concession stand
and her husband grills hamburgers and hot dogs for each home football game.
Membership pins were presented to Catherine Oehlke, 70 years; Sharon Sorrell, 60 years and Margie Pruski, 75 years.
DUNLAY – Dunlay Lodge will meet Feb. 21 at 7 p.m. A meeting was not held in January.
In December, the lodge held its annual Christmas party and pin presentations.
Members welcomed special guest Vice President of Sales Teresa Saathoff and her husband Doug. Teresa presented four membership pins.
Joyce E. Krenmueller received her 75-year pin. She has
been a member since May 1, 1947. Curtis Tondre received a 70-year pin and has been a member since Jan. 7, 1952. Sixty-year pins were presented to Richard Fournier, a member since Sept. 18, 1962, and Ken Mangold, a member since Nov. 27, 1962.
A meal of tamales, beans, rice and chili was served to the 25 members and guests in attendance.
Following the pin presentation and meal, door prizes were awarded. Winners were Jerome Bendele, Tom Zuberbueler, Clyde Muennink and Loraine Miller.
The “white elephant” gift exchange was the final event of the evening and those participating left with some beautiful, surprising and unusual gifts.
Get-well cards were sent to Doris Moczygemba and Dean Gaspard. The lodge made plans to send a Christmas gift to the school of dance.
Birthday celebrants in December were Patricia Lowak and
James Lowak. Catherine Oehlke gave the invocation, and everyone enjoyed a meal of turkey and all trimmings. Bingo was played and the table lanterns were given as prizes. – Reporter
ROUND TOP – Round Top Lodge will meet Jan. 26, 2023. Dinner will be provided and members may bring a dessert.
Board Director David Noak was in attendance for the Christmas party on Dec. 11. He presented membership pins. Fifty-year recipients included Melissa Crenwelge-Nedbalek, Blaine Koehl, Janet Matthijetz, Dwight Nittsche, Robbie Stork and Tina Wagner Morrow. Those receiving 60-year pins were Doris Jean Eckermann, Delores Neutzler, David’s first cousin, Jan Perry, Harry Schellberg, Ruby Vierus, Pearlie Wagner, Genell Fay Weigelt and Nyle Woods.
The social hour began with refreshments and visiting. Vice President Linda Mattocks led a brief meeting and welcomed all 54 in attendance.
Linda presented the Matching Funds check of $500 from the Home Office to Lana Limmer accepting on behalf of the Ledbetter Fire Department. The funds raised in the country store had already been sent to the fire department.
Treasurer Mary Rauch gave a summary of the lodge’s charitable contributions and activities.
Kristi Bauer from CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) thanked the lodge for its continued donations. She explained CASA is the voice for children in foster care and how CASA sees that all their needs are met. At present there are 150 children in her care, 29 from Fayette County. Accompanying Kristi was her daughter, Keelyn, her parents, Red and Pam Schoenst, and her nephew and niece, Weston and Kate Bauer who helped her carry out all the donated items for the children.
David brought news from the Home Office. Hermann Sons Life annuities rates have increased to 4 percent.
Members enjoyed a meal of chicken fried pork steak, twice baked potatoes with gravy,
bers.
Many participated in the “rob your neighbor” gift exchange game.
Pictured at the Boerne Lodge Christmas party are, from left, Barbara D’Spain, Esther Faecher, Alice Quinn, President and CEO Robin Czarnek and Compliance Director Ana Vasquez. Guests also included Bobby Kunz, Debra Martin, R.D. Tyler and Melody Moran. A catered entree was served, and members brought dishes to share. Robin spoke about her vision for Hermann Sons Life and answered questions. Happy Birthday was sung to Alice Quinn, and she received a gift. James Meckel won a gift bag of goodies from the Home Office.
KIRBY – Kirby Lodge will meet Jan. 2, 2023, at 7 p.m. Chicken will be served as the main dish and members are asked to bring a side or a dessert.
The next meeting is Feb. 6 at 7 p.m. Lasagna will be served, and members are asked to bring a side or a dessert.
At the December meeting, the Humanitarian of the Year Award for 2022 was presented to the Kirby Police Department for all it does for the community. The lodge hosted several of the officers at the December Christmas meeting and presented Police Chief Roxanne Cardona with the certificate.
Albrecht Catering provided the meal for the Christmas celebration on Dec. 4. Several bingo winners took home meals and gift cards.
Officers for the 2023 calendar year were elected at the November meeting. They are Carroll Gloor, president; Samantha Schulmeier Kelley, vice president; Tammy Haecker, financial secretary/treasurer; Andra Fore, corresponding secretary; Robert Scheel, James McQuatters and Ronald Bitterly, trustees; Glenda Bayer, Candace Scheibe and Lil-
lian Brietzke, Finance Committee; Linda Gloor, membership coordinator/chaplin; Judith Schulmeier, community coordinator; Angela Netherton, communications coordinator/youth director; and Donna Scheel, Cheer Committee.
Members welcomed transfer member Ronald C. Bitterly.
It was announced Hermann Sons Life is now offering Medicare products. If you know of anyone interested in this or in purchasing life insurance or an annuity, contact agents Angela Netherton or Judy Schulmeier for information.
In observance of Make a Difference Day, the lodge collected items and donated $500 to the
Fischer House located off Wurzbach by the Medical Center. Appreciation was extended to Judy for her help organizing the event.
Condolences go out to the families of Laura E. Ewald and Robert Wolff.
Happy Birthday wishes went out to Linda Gloor who celebrated a birthday in November.
The November $30 attendanceprize winner was Tammy Haecker. Door prize winners were Andra Fore, Ron Bitterly and Linda Lambrecht. Split-the-pot winners were Tommy Weisner, Candace Scheibe who won twice, Carroll Gloor and Linda Gloor.
– Andra Fore
ROSENBERG – RosenbergRichmond Lodge will meet Feb. 13. Beef tips and rice will be served, and members are asked to bring dessert.
The lodge met Dec. 12 at the Rosenberg Civic Center with 45 members and guests in attendance. A meal of turkey and dressing was served with dessert provided. Margie Krenek and Shirley Pavlock served and Margie Krenek gave the blessing.
Cathy Winsor was elected to serve as a three-year trustee.
Membership Coordinator Eppie Kostak reported a sympathy card was sent to the family of Delvin Reuter. A moment of silence was observed in his memory.
Community Coordinator William Benton thanked the lodge for the donation to the Channel
13 food drive.
Joyce Lamensky won the $50 drawing, and poinsettias were
awarded as door prizes. Games followed the meeting. – Reporter
NEW BRAUNFELS – New Braunfels Lodge will meet Sunday, Jan. 8, with Tommy Daum as host. The installation of officers will be held. The meat will be furnished, and members are asked to bring a sides and/or dessert.
At the Christmas celebration on Dec. 4, President and CEO Robin Czarnek presented a 70year membership pin to Kenneth Staats.
Members approved a lodge donation of $100 to the Uvalde survivors’ relief fund and mem-
bers also contributed.
Birthday celebrant Shirley Huebinger was recognized. Shirley and husband Michael recently celebrated their wedding anniversary.
The tables were decorated for the holiday and a lighted tree added to the festivities.
Candy, snacks and punch were served. A catered turkey dinner was served after games and a Christmas sing-along was held. Seventeen members won attendance prizes.
– Reporter
DA COSTA – Da Costa Lodge will meet Jan. 10, 2023, at 6 p.m. at the hall. The lodge meets every other month on the second Tuesday. Meetings are scheduled for March 14, May 9, July 11, Sept. 12 and Nov. 14. Make plans to attend and bring ideas for upcoming events like Make a Difference Day, Join Hands Day, Flag Day and more.
If unable to attend in person, the meeting is available through Zoom. Contact President Sayra Boop at 361-676-6947 for the link or email sayra@dacostahall.com.
The Christmas social was held Dec. 10. The 2022 Humanitarian of the Year Award was presented to Chris and Andrea Stehle and Sayra Boop by Pam Elkins and Katie Kurtz. Diane Stastny also served on the Award Committee but was not in attendance.
The 2022 pin recipients were recognized. Those in attendance were Helen Welfel who received her 50-year membership pin, Jeffrey Neisser received his 50-year pin and Sabra Sauer received her 60-year pin.
Dancers from the Da Costa and Ganado schools of dance performed, Santa visited, and each junior member received a $5 gift. The event also included an enchilada dinner prepared by S & J Catering, presentations, a silent auction, collection of canned goods and a public dance with music by Stephanie Ross and the Southern
Drive Band.
A total of 52 items were donated for the silent auction and more than $1,200 was raised for the Scholarship Fund. Thank you to everyone who donated, made bids and purchased items.
A special cake was served in appreciation of Chris and Andrea Stehle for all they do.
There are dates available for hall rentals. For information, call 361578-2039.
BRENHAM – Brenham Lodge will meet Friday, Jan. 13, 2023. The social is at 6 p.m. and the meal at 7 p.m. followed by the meeting.
The installation of officers will be held. All elected and appointed officers are urged to attend. The meal will be chili, stew or chef’s choice. Members are asked to provide desserts.
The annual Christmas party was held on Saturday, Dec. 3, at the lodge hall. Special guests were Vice President of Operations and COO Samantha Schulmeier Kelley and her husband Jonathan. Samantha brought Christmas greetings from the Home Office and spoke on the importance of life insurance and said Hermann Sons Life has something for the whole family.
Samantha, assisted by President James Hyvl, presented the Humanitarian of the Year Awards to Ashley Bentke and Darlene Hertel. She also presented a 70year membership pin to Rosalie Rodenbeck and a 60-year membership pin to Waldemar Schramm.
There was a large turnout of members and guests. Dance music was provided by Ricky Weiss and Friends. Santa Claus took time away from his busy schedule for a brief visit and presented gift bags to the children. The gift bags were filled with various goodies and a ticket for door prizes. He then made a quick departure to tend to business at the North Pole.
Everyone enjoyed a catered
Brenham Lodge junior member Kady Hyvl tells Santa she has been a good girl and tells him what she wants for Christmas during the Brenham Lodge Christmas party.
meal of turkey, ham, dressing, potatoes, green beans, cole slaw, rolls and a fruit cup.
CLEAR SPRINGS – Kypher-Salge Lodge will meet Jan. 6 with soup and chili on the menu.
The lodge welcomes new junior members Miller Matlock and Olivia Matlock.
The election of officers was held at the November meeting. Darline Preiss resigned from her position and Merry Brinkkoeter was voted in as her replacement. All other officers were reelected for 2023.
It was reported the work on the hall roof has been completed.
Birthday celebrants were Daryl and Helen Lammert. Anniversary celebrants were Charlie and Tammy Seiter, 26 years.
Attendance-prize winners were Dennis Koepp, Sara Saur, Colleen Jenke, Tammy Seiter and Carlie Seiter.
The Christmas party was scheduled for Dec. 11. – Reporter
Vice
Many donated door prizes were awarded.
– Reporter
Kypfer-Salge
ebrants
SAN ANTONIO – Mission-Alamo Lodge will meet Wednesday, Jan. 25, at 7 p.m.
The lodge honored pioneers in 2020-2022 at the 129th anniversary meeting held in October.
In 2020, Arthur Porter received his 75-year membership pin and Erhard Kneupper received his 60-year pin.
The 2021 recipients included Jackalyn Oertel, 70 years; Joyce Kneupper, 60 years; and Terry Swan, 50 years.
In 2022, Lee Vogel received a 60-year pin and Shelley Gray a
50-year pin.
Other pioneers recognized were Shannon Swan, 54 years; Monica Porter, 56; Dorothy Breezee, 56; Cindy Ledwig, 57; Bernice Vogel, 58; Georgia Hall, 65; and Carol Swan, 73.
Members voted all current officers will continue to serve for 2023.
The lodge welcomes new member Carter James Cline.
In observance of Make a Difference Day, President Diane Cline presented a $150 check from the lodge to President Roy and Cecilia Gabrillo for St. Vin-
cent de Paul Society Food Pantry of St. Pius X Catholic Church of San Antonio. Members also gave additional monetary donations.
John Kelly won the split-thepot prize of $22 and donated it to the food pantry and the other half went to Grief Camp.
The name of Aissa R. Vallecillo was drawn for the attendance prize, but she was not present so $90 stays in play for the next meeting.
Mission-Alamo Lodge wishes everyone a Happy New Year.
– Reporter
Vice
Vice
BULVERDE – Prinz Solms Lodge will meet Sunday, Jan. 8, at 5 p.m. at the Bulverde Community Center. Contact Cliff Klabunde to RSVP for the meal count.
The lodge presented the 2022 Humanitarian of the Year Award to Zada Jahnsen during the Christmas celebration held jointly with Spring Branch Lodge.
Zada has been involved in the Bulverde community for many years. She has classes for people of all ages wanting to participate in theater. She is also volunteers in other community organizations.
The Hermann Sons Life Hill Country School of Dance provided entertainment with dancers from beginners to high school age.
Stockdale Lodge members donated children’s gifts to the Stockdale Santa program. Barbara Wiatrek delivered the toys. At the November meeting held at Lew’s Patio and Grill, members voted to keep the same slate of officers for 2023. Members also voted to send a $200 donation to the Retirement Home Christmas Fund. Everyone enjoyed the dinner and fellowship.
Orange Grove Lodge members gathered for a Christmas party in December. Special guests were Vice President of Operations and COO Samantha Schulmeier Kelley and husband Jonathan. Pictured are, from left, Jeanette Herschap, Lucille Klaevemann, Alta Fuhrken, Scott Gerbert, Paula Gerbert, Samantha and Jonathan.
Hondo Victory Lodge presented the Humanitarian of the Year Award for 2022 during the Christmas party held at Azteca Restaurant. Pictured are Financial Secretary Loraine Miller, left, presenting the award to Diane Cosgrove. Loraine installed officers for 2023. They are president, Aurline Tschirhart; vice president, Debbie Payne; corresponding secretary, Emilie Cowan; and financial secretary, Linda Tschirhart. Diane, executive director of Restore Reproductive Health, was the guest speaker. She spoke on what the non-profit organization does and services it provides. When her presentation was over, Loraine surprised Diane with the award.
GIDDINGS – Giddings Lodge will meet at 7 p.m. on Jan. 12 at at Silos Hall.
The lodge awarded the Humanitarian of the Year Award to Lee County EMS. It was presented to Rodney and Gina Mersiovsky at the December meeting.
Also, each employee received a Certificate of Appreciation in honor of their services during the COVID pandemic.
The $50 end-of-year prize winners for the ladies was Pat Abell and for the men, Arthur Urban.
Members enjoyed dinner at Santa Fe Steak House.
Children had a chance to visit with Santa and give them their wish lists during the Rutersville Lodge Christmas party held Saturday, Dec. 3.Orange Grove Lodge holds holiday gathering Victory Giddings Lodge awarded the Humanitarian of the Year Award to Lee County EMS. Gina and Rodney Mersiovsky accepted the award from President Pat Abell, right.
SCHULENBURG – Schulenburg Lodge held its annual Christmas party at the Oakridge Restaurant on Wednesday, Dec. 14, with 34 members and guests in attendance. Special guest was Vice President of Sales Teresa Saathoff from the Home Office.
Teresa presented 60-year membership pins to Allen Wayne Matus, Vicki L. Schrader and Linda M. Wagner.
The Humanitarian Award of the Year was presented to Arline and Elmer Ulrich by Emma Nitschke, chair of the Humanitarian Award Committee. Elmer and Arline Ulrich were married in 1958. They became members in 1959 at the Freyburg Hall near Schulenburg where meetings were held at that time. Arline’s grandfather, Paul Olle, was a member and attended the Grand Lodge Convention in 1924. Her father, Helmuth Dieringer was also a life-long member. Their children and grandchildren were active members as well. Elmer served on the Finance Committee for
many years and continues to serve as trustee. He was a delegate at several Hermann Sons conventions. Arline has been the Nursing Home Coordinator for several years making sure
residents who are members continue to feel included. She also served on the Nominating Committee and Humanitarian Committee. Both Elmer and Arline participated in the Schulen-
burg Festival parade riding the Hermann Sons Life float. They are always ready to lend a hand. Members enjoyed refreshments and a buffet meal. A raffle for Christmas gifts was held
and benefitted the Scholarship Fund.
Members agreed to donate $10 a month for bingo games at the Regency Nursing Home. – Junette Rodecap
SAN ANTONIO – Harmonia Lodge will meet Jan. 12. Chili and tamales will be provided and members are asked to bring a side dish or dessert.
Elections were held at the December meeting and members voted to retain officers in their current positions. The officers are Rene Kraus, president; Albert Ranzau, vice president; Mike Warneke, secretary-treasurer; John Hoog, recording secretary; Mike Gumpp, trustee; Jake White, trustee; Bill Richard, trustee; Ernest DeWinnie, Finance Committee; Brad Dietrich, Finance Committee; and Stan Steiger, Finance Committee.
For the annual Christmas meal held in the Rathskeller, Al Ranzau and Mike Beam prepared a ham and members brought side dishes and desserts. There were approximately 28 members and guests present.
The lodge collected toys and various other gifts for the San
Harmonia Lodge attendanceprize winners at the December meeting were Ernie DeWinne, left, and Albert Ranzau, far right, pictured with President Rene Kraus.
Antonio Police Officer Association’s Blue Santa program that provides toys to underprivileged children, a project the lodge has adopted. Brad Dietrich delivered the items.
Members voted to increase lodge dues by 50 cents to offset rising inflation and a decrease in membership.
Mike Beam and wife Mary
and William Witteman and wife Myrtle celebrated wedding anniversaries in December. Rebecca Ranzau, wife of Albert, celebrated her birthday in December.
Albert Ranzau and Ernest DeWinnie won attendance prizes and Alfonso Robalin won the split-the-pot prize.
Harmonia Lodge held the annual Christmas dinner in the Rathskeller at the December meeting.
HELOTES –Helotes Lodge will meet again on March 14. The remaining 2023 meeting dates are June 13, Sept. 12 and Dec. 12. All meetings start at 7 p.m. A meal is served, and cash door prizes are awarded.
Congratulations to the newly elected lodge officers for 2023. They are president, Carl Gass; vice president, Al Michalczak; financial secretary/treasurer, Letty Fragoso (new); and cor-
responding secretary, Rebecca T. Henley. Financial trustees are Shirley Jonas, Lisa Fragoso and Georgia Edmondson (new). The lodge recognized Susie Michalczak for her years of service and exemplary example of fraternalism. She served as the lodge’s financial secretary/ treasurer since 2011. The lodge wished her luck in all her endeavors.
Santa brought gifts to the Corpus Christi Lodge Christmas party. He is pictured visiting with David Garcia, Kamberlie Bainbridge and Rhylie Garcia.
President and CEO Robin Czarnek, right, and her husband David were special guests at the Corpus Christi Lodge Christmas party. President Cheryl Garcia
poinsettia
community. A
appreciation
Old
OLD GLORY – Old Glory Lodge will meet on Jan. 8 due to the New Year’s holiday on the first. Soup and chili are on the menu so grab your crockpot and bring your favorite. All members are encouraged to attend.
A dance will be held Jan. 14. Tickets are $15 each and the dance will feature new band Jerry Webb and the Honky-
tonk Bandstand. Be sure to save the date.
At the December meeting, it was reported the hot water heater had gone out and will have to be replaced and the floor is still being worked on. The lodge appreciates the trustees for keeping everything working.
Get-well wishes go out to
Gladys Vahlenkamp, Debbie Vahlenkamp and Kathy Teichelman.
Pat Pyron was the door-prize winner.
Birthday celebrant Carolyn Teichelman and anniversary celebrants Gary and Carolyn Teichelman and Don and Pat Pyron were recognized.
DALLAS – Columbia Lodge recently celebrated Thankgiving Day and Christmas.
There was an abundance of food for the Thanksgiving Day celebration. Bobby Wilbanks’ centerpiece was the ham and turkey and members provided side dishes and desserts in abundance.
Elections for 2023 were held prior to the meal. The officers are president, David Lewis; vice
president, Jeremiah Arauco; secretary/treasurer, Stanley Whitehead; new trustee, Jeremiah Arauco; new Finance Committee member, Kim Horton; and on the Hall Committee, Stanley Whitehead, Tzefira Jones and Mary Marvin.
The holiday spirit continued into the December meeting. The lodge’s traditional dinner of steak and chicken along with sides and desserts provided by the mem-
bers was served.
This was the eighth year for the lodge to collect toys for the Larry Tutson Foundation, Inc. Toy Drive. The toy drive is now in its 20th year and provides toys to children in the community who otherwise might not receive gifts.
Bobby introduced the toy drive to the lodge and over the last eight years it has grown from a Columbia Lodge event to also
include Dallas Lodge and the Home Association. This year numerous other organizations have joined the giving circle with generous monetary donations from Fort Worth Lodge and its members, an associated Fort Worth business owner, San Angelo Lodge and the Dallas Songwriters Association.
Barbara and Gregg Smith lost their son Larry 20 years ago. From their grief and love this founda-
SAN ANTONIO – Vineta Lodge will meet on Jan. 5 at 7 p.m. with chili and tamales on the menu.
Some members met in Seguin at Beth Byron’s home for dinner before going to Texas Lutheran University for the Christmas Vespers program. It was put on by the TLU Music Department and featured three choirs and an orchestra. President Debbie Jor-
dan and her daughter Hannah both attended TLU and were music majors. The free program was fabulous and is recommended as a lodge outing.
The lodge will not present a scholarship in 2023 as it reevaluates the program.
The calendar of events for 2023 will be ready in February.
– ReporterThe Seguin Lodge 2023 officers were elected at the November meeting. They are, from left, Howard Huebner, trustee; Tim Kolbe, president; Annette Roecker, treasurer; Allen Gescheidle, vice president; Tammy Beutnagel, secretary; Paul Gescheidle, Home Association; Brenda Schrank, Finance Committee; Hattie Gerdes, trustee; and Kathy Hartmann, Finance Committee.
tion and special toy drive was born.
Barbara was selected as the lodge’s Humanitarian of the Year Award recipient for 2022. Upon receipt of the award, she was moved to tears and her story of how the foundation came to be left some tear-filled eyes but also joyous hearts knowing how the donations will make a difference for the children and their families.
– Reporter
DEANVILLE – Deanville Lodge held the election of officers during the November meeting. Officers for 2023 are president, Donnie Blinka; vice president, Tammy Jones; secretary, Marsha Kocurek; treasurer, Debby Schumacher; and communications coordinator, Beverly Blinka. Trustees are James Fritsche, Bennie Jones and Wayne Eichholz. Members of the Finance Committee are Mildred McLemore and Tammy Jones.
Deanville Lodge presented funds raised during the Roast Beef Dinner Matching Funds event to Brazos Valley Hospice in December. Pictured are Debby Schumacher, Henrietta Cunningham, Lisa McNair, Brazos Valley Hospice president and CEO, President Donnie Blinka, James Schumacher
A moment of silence was observed for Darrell Gene Supak, a lifelong lodge member. Darrell passed away on Nov. 29. Condolences are extended to his family.
A check in the amount of $1,033.75 from the October Drive-Thru Roast Beef FundRaiser and an additional Matching Funds check in the amount of $500 from the Home Office was presented to Lisa McNair, President and CEO of Brazos Valley Hospice on Dec. 2.
Thanks to everyone who supported and sponsored the Dec. 10 Tingle and Mingle Dance. Proceeds from the dance are utilized for upkeep and maintenance of the historic lodge hall. Members are grateful for the community’s support of this event and throughout the year.
The Christmas party was scheduled for Dec. 18. The 2022 Humanitarian of the Year award was presented.
CIBOLO – Cibolo Lodge held its Christmas party Saturday, Dec. 3, at Saint John’s Lutheran Church P.J. Hall in Marion.
Director Stan Steiger and President John Gray presented a 70-year membership pin to Rodney Krebbs.
The lodge presented three donations. Quilts of Valor was the Matching Funds recipient. It is a volunteer organization that makes handmade quilts for service members and veterans. In September the lodge held a rummage sale at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Universal City to raise money for Quilts of Valor. John and Stan presented a check to representatives Lynn and Roy Poole in the amount of $1,500 from the lodge and $500 from the Home Office.
Lynn explained their process for making the quilts and then surprised the lodge with a beautiful quilt. If anyone knows of a deserving service member, more information is available at qovf.org.
The lodge also donated to Operation Backpack. President Gray and Vice President Sherry Rakowitz presented Debbie Mattke, who operates Operation Backpack, with the Humanitarian of the Year award along with a $250 check and nonperishable food items donated by members. Operation Backpack provides backpacks of school supplies and food for children in need in the Marion school district.
The third donation was for a charity the lodge has been helping for several years now. A $250 H-E-B gift card was presented to TruLight127 Ministries as well as nonperishable foods items.
Decorations included a Christmas tree decorated with horse candy cane holders the children were able to take home and enjoy. Thanks to Beverly Lefever for the holders as well as the candy canes. The tables were decorated with poinsettias and given away as door prizes.
Santa, Mrs. Claus and puppy Claus visited, and everyone had the chance to let him know what they wanted for Christmas
and have their pictures taken with him.
Back Door Catering served a meal of bacon-wrapped chicken thighs, green beans, cheesy potatoes, salad and iced tea. Desserts included a variety of cookies including red velvet, chocolate chip, choconut and sugar pecan sprinkles. The cakes included a dreamsicle truffle cake, pound cake, coconut cake and a pecan bundt cake made by 11-year-old Brenley Bierstedt. The cake had won first place at the Stockdale FFA Prospect show that day. There were also pies and homemade peanut brittle.
The 50/50 drawing brought in more than $300 and the winner was Alvin Schulz, and the other
half went to the Scholarship Fund.
Members enjoyed a casino night that included two blackjack tables, one roulette table and Texas hold-em. One of the casino prizes was a Christmas wreath made by Bonnie Wyrwich. Those who did not gamble participated in a domino tournament. Winners were Mike Warneke and Fay Fey.
Santa judged the ugly sweater contest and out of the seven participating, Dorothy Schnieder won first place with a train sweater. Tiffany Kuhlman won second place with a cat sweater and Zane Gray won third place with a Santa on a chimney sweater.
FORT WORTH – Fort Worth Lodge will meet on March 5. Location to be determined.
Members had a great time traveling to Dallas for the Columbia Lodge meeting and steak dinner. Fort Worth Lodge and members donated $2,320 plus toys to the Tutson Toy Drive that Columbia Lodge supports each year.
I want to share a story about one of our members that passed away in 2021. The Aledo Thanksgiving Trot was started 11 years ago by a small group of friends who wanted to help with the burden of mounting medical bills for Marcia Walters who was waiting for a double-lung transplant. It took a lot of convincing for Marcia to agree to let her friends do such an amazing thing for her, but they did, and the race was organized.
The first year the group had no idea what they were doing or what it would entail, but in six short weeks they organized a trot and raised $24,000 for Marcia. The race was such a success they all decided they wanted to leave a legacy and continue to bless families year after year.
The committee accepts applications and spends many long hours planning and deciding who the recipient will be each year. The time, thought, hours and love that poured into this event is truly incredible. When Marcia passed away in April 2021, the committee members decided to change the name of the race to the “Marcia Walters Memorial Thanksgiving Trot” to keep her memory alive and honor her each year.
To carry on her mom’s legacy, Marianne Gibson was asked to
present the check at the race to the recipient’s family. It was an honor for her and all of Marcia’s family. This year the race raised $109,000.
Marcia’s parents signed her up with Hermann Sons Life when she was born, and she later signed up her children and grandchildren. She was a camper as were her children and grandchildren. Marcia was a lodge member for more than 60 years.
Parents of campers don’t forget to start looking for letters from the Youth Committee after the first of the year with information on T-shirt orders and the drawing.
Get-well wishes go out to Pat Miller.
Happy 27th anniversary to Chris and Kecia Andries.
Happy Birthday wishes go out
The Aledo Thanksgiving Trot began 11 years ago as a fund-raiser for Fort Worth Lodge member, the late Marcia Walters. In her honor, it was named the “Marcia Walters Memorial Thanksgiving Trot.” Pictured at this year’s event are her grandchildren, Brynn Davis, Ellie Walters, Blake Walters, Cole Gibson, Ty Gibson and Caitlyn Davis.
to Trey Castor, Karla Cox, Austin Crater, Crystal Evans, John Hanna, Jason Johnston, Caden Jones (watch out world another teenage driver), Bill Lane, Emyl-
ea Mitchell, Courtney Murphy, Courtney Olivo, Mike Thompson, Beverly Turek and Ellie Walters.
– ReporterSAN ANTONIO – Pershing Lodge will meet Jan. 4, 2023, at 7 p.m. A catered barbecue meal with sides will be served. Members need to RSVP for the meal by contacting the office at 210227-3085.
The lodge welcomed new member Sarah Napier at the December meeting.
LOCKHART – Lockhart Lodge celebrated Christmas Sunday, Dec. 4, at Smitty’s Market with 30 in attendance including Vice President of Operations and COO Samantha Schulmeier Kelley and husband Jonathan.
Samantha gave a brief update and presented membership pins. Three members present receiving 75-year pins were Lenoa (Dickie) Rutherford, Rudy Schroeder and Darrel Schueneman.
The names of 60- and 50-year pin recipients were read.
Campers Elizabeth Duewall, Madeline Hyland, Margaret Hy-
land, and Anna Duewall gave a presentation on their time at Camp this past summer.
Celebrating December birthdays were guest John Hyland, Agent Janice Kuhen and Nancy Hess. December anniversary celebrants were Rudy and Ann Schroeder, 54 years.
Samantha brought door prizes from the Home Office and the winners were guest Luke Herbrich and Emelia Duewall.
Everyone enjoyed the meal, desserts, and a fun-filled gift exchange.
– Reporter
Birthday
The 2022 Humanitarian of the Year Award was presented to Robert Tullgren. He has a lifelong history of donating his time and money to the country and community.
Members collected Christmas items for St. P.J.’s Children’s Home.
Celebrating December birthdays were Beth Warne and Anita Eggert. Both won prizes and Anita donated her winnings to St. PJ’s.
Dorothy Pawlik won the $35 attendance prize. Robert Tullgren won the split-the-pot drawing and donated his winnings to St. PJ’s.
– Dorothy Pawlik
BULVERDE – Spring Branch Lodge welcomed a new junior member at the November meeting held at the Bulverde Community Center.
Projects for Make a Difference Day included donating items to Bulverde Provisions and the Bulverde Humane Society. Monetary gifts were also given.
Officers will remain the same as last year. Gloria Gass has resigned as a trustee which leaves two trustees serving this
year. Her position will not be filled.
The lodge recognized Claire Schaeferkoeter who recently celebrated her 17th birthday.
Attendance prize winners were Carl Wanke, Sharon Knibbe, Sandra Duncan, Timmie Angell, Neva Bosco and Shannon Knibbe.
Alverne Halloran and Gloria Gass provided the food. Happy New Year! – Jane Wanke
MCGREGOR – McGregor
Lodge will meet Feb. 7 at The Coffee Shop at 6 p.m. A January meeting will not be held.
The lodge met Dec. 6 at the McGregor General Store. Members and guests enjoyed a meal from Rudy’s Barbecue. Members received a gift card for Christmas.
Prize winners were Regenia Arseneaux, Jerome Weinstrom, Diane Weinstrom, Teresa Sneed and Karl Brandt.
ceived a 75-year membership pin. She has been a member since Dec. 8, 1947.
Sympathy was extended to Yvonne Schmalriede and Vivian Lange on the loss of their sister, Geraldine Hoehn Allen.
Get-well wishes went out to El Nora Lawton.
Happy Birthday to Karl Brandt, Diane and Jerome Weinstrom and to all who celebrate birthdays in December and January.
Plum Lodge held its annual Christmas party Saturday, Dec. 3. Members enjoyed a brisket and sausage dinner with all the trimmings and many home-made desserts. Pictured in front of the Christmas tree are President Wilbert Hoffmann, Breanna Marburger Leonhardt and daughter Marlee. The next meeting is Monday, Jan. 16, at 4 p.m. at the Prairie Valley School House. The lodge will provide the meal.
Congratulations to Lucille Schwettmann Ballowe was re -
Happy New Year!
– Doris Mooney
McGregor Lodge member Lucille Ballowe received her 75-year membership pin at the December meeting. She has been a member since Dec. 8, 1947.
HOUSTON – Houston Lodge’s first meeting in 2023 will be held at Don Jose’s Monday, Jan. 9, at 6 p.m.
The 2023 officers are Jack Manchack, president; Patricia Bushman, vice president; Lavinia Patterson, financial secretary; and Catherine Manchack, secretary. James Ellison moved to trustee position one and Sheila Lee moved to trustee position two. Appointed positions include communications coordinator, Samantha Thompson; membership coordinator, Lavina Patterson; and community coordinator, Patricia Bushman.
Members Wesley Palmer, Kade Weikel and Trevor Weikel have transferred to Brenham Lodge.
Sons Life website.
Lavina reported she sent a sympathy card to Norma Moore for the death of Leon Moore. A moment of silence was held for Michele K. Meleton who passed away Aug. 14, 2022, and Adele G. Martin who passed away June 9, 2022.
In observance of Make a Difference Day, Pat Bushman, Lavina Patterson, Samantha Thompson and Kiera Thompson worked with 35 others on the carousel at the Houston Food Bank for four hours Saturday, Oct. 22. They packaged 7,200 pounds of food. They also presented the Houston Food Bank with a $200 donation.
ter with Ethelene’s homemade cranberry sauce, Catherine and Ethelene’s green bean casserole, the vegetable salad Gary and Doris made, the cookies Samantha brought, the pumpkin pies Patricia made and the pies the lodge bought.
Veterans recognized were Reuben Heldberg, National Guard; Gary Falkenberg, Air Force; and Jack Manchack; Air Force.
Anniversary celebrants were James and Darlene Ellison, 56 years on Nov. 25 and Jack and Catherine Manchack, 47 years on Nov. 22.
Happy Birthday was sung to Pat Bushman for her birthday on Nov. 25.
Stern
Agent Gary Falkenberg advised members to review their insurance policies for any changes or updates needed. He also discussed the Hermann
A thank-you card and donation was given to Ethelene Marshall for hosting the lodge’s Thanksgiving dinner in her home. The meal from Hickory Hollow was made even bet-
Winners in the monthly attendance drawing were Kiera Thompson, Ethelene Marshall, James Ellison, Patricia Bushman and Jack Manchack.
– Catherine Manchack
SAN ANTONIO – Bexar Lodge will meet Jan. 8, 2023, at the San Antonio Home Association building, 525 S. St. Mary’s St., from 1-3 p.m.
The lodge rang in the season with its annual Christmas party on Dec. 3 at VFW Post 8541 on Austin Highway. The theme was Christmas in Vegas and was full of fun, games and plenty of ways to press your luck. Games like the ornament swing and the prize ball had big and little gamblers alike up and moving and fan favorite, Family Feud, returned to add a dash of holiday trivia to the evening.
The North West Bexar School of Dance students lit up the floor with numbers choreographed by Klint and Kealey Fabian. Attendees were surprised by special guest, Santa all dressed up as Elvis! Between all the entertainment, guests enjoyed plenty of desserts provided by members, as well as a dinner of turkey, ham, green beans, sweet potatoes and stuffing.
The raffle was a hit. Guests had the opportunity to buy tickets for the grand prize, a Blackstone grill, as well as an in-house raffle with items such as a date night package of Cirque du Soleil tickets, a Paesano’s gift card, San Antonio Spurs Missions games tickets, San Antonio Zoo and Schlitterbahn passes, generously donated by each organization. Matthew Stoddard took
home the grand prize along with the date night package while Siemering Lodge’s Cherry Lee won two four packs of San Antonio Missions tickets.
Siemering Lodge graciously donated two jars of award-winning hot sauce to be auctioned off at the party. All proceeds of the auction will go to fund the Bexar Lodge’s volunteer projects in 2023.
In the spirit of the season, donations for the lodge’s Join Hands Day 2023 project were collected. Donated items included five bags of Poly-Fil, 26 pairs of socks, eight yards of fleece fabric, six containers of loose catnip and seven balls of string. These items will be used to make dog and cat toys for the San Antonio Humane Society.
Santa “Elvis” was the highlight of the Bexar Lodge Vegas Christmas party.
Members are invited to visit hermannsonslifebexar.com to stay up to date on 2023 events.
– Reporter
Photo on left – Moulton Lodge recently donated blankets to the BARK animal shelter. Pictured are, from left, Gladys Seifert, Barbara Anderle, Joyce Pavlicek and Kathy Koch.
Photo on right – The lodge recently collected noneperishable food items for the Deputy Santa program. Pictured are from left, Gladys Seifert, Chuck Greive, Barbara Anderle and Joyce Pavlicek.
SAN MARCOS – San Marcos Lodge will meet Monday, Feb. 6. Watch for an email for time and location. Members are asked to wear red in honor of Heart Awareness Month and Valentine’s Day.
The lodge held its annual Christmas party on Sunday, Dec. 11, at the Zorn Bowling Club. The afternoon festivities began with guessing games and bingo with poinsettia plants and gold dollar coins for prizes.
Officers elected for 2023 are president, Agnes Dreibrodt; vice-president, Shirley Faske; financial secretary, Janice Kuhen; financial trustees, Larry Moreau, Janet Magin and Mary Lou Preuss. Appointed officers are membership coordinator, Janet Magin; communication coordinators, Shirley and Benhard Faske; youth coordinator, Peyton Trapp; community coordinator, Lillian Cargil; Cheer Committee, Mary Lou Preuss and Mary Jane Smith; and historian, Irene Bierstedt.
President Agnes Dreibrodt welcomed President and CEO Robin Czarnek and her husband David. Robin addressed the membership and wished everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. She shared some encouraging words and wisdom about Hermann Sons Life and announced upcoming events and activities including an increase to annuity rates.
Robin and Agnes presented Loretta Sanders the San Marcos Lodge Humanitarian Award of the Year Award for 2022.
Vice President Shirley Faske prepared “guess the number
of candies in a jar games.” Irene Bierstedt won the peppermints game; Yvonne Reimers won the Lifesavers game; Bob Stoffel won the root beer barrels game; Dennis Krackau won the M & Ms game; and Janice Kuhen won the Kisses game. Two guessed the exact number of items in the jars.
Youth Director Laura Ramirez provided junior members with activities to enjoy before Christmas.
Happy birthday wishes were extended to December celebrants Billy Preuss and Janice Kuhen.
The Cheer Committee reported get-well cards had been sent to Esther Schmidt, Florence and Marshall McQuaig. A Sympathy card was sent to Betty Rust.
President Dreibrodt thanked
everyone for coming and those who helped decorate for the Christmas party. She thanked Shirley for the guessing games, Laura for the children’s games, Janice Kuhen for calling the bingo numbers, getting the poinsettias, making arrangements with Bill Miller for the turkey meal and getting other items
needed. She also thanked Mary Lou Preuss for preparing the coffee, Janet Magin and Lillian Cargil for taking care of boxing up the food items to take to the food bank and Mary Jane Smith and Janet Boehringer for helping at the registration table.
Thank-you letters were read from the Hays Caldwell Wom-
en’s Center for the lodge’s
Robin provided door prizes and the winners were Larry Moreau and Mary Lou Preuss.
– ReporterDALLAS – Dallas Lodge will meet Sunday, Jan. 22, at 1 p.m. at the hall. Members and guests are invited to attend. Officers and appointees will be installed. Food and drinks will be provided.
The officers elected for 2023 are Andy Schellenberg, presi-
dent; Clint Holmes, vice president, Steve Schellenberg, secretary/treasurer; Eva Day, Terry and Clint Holmes, trustees; Terri Holmes, Brigitte Robinson and Eva Lloyd, Finance Committee; reporter, Andy Schellenberg; and historian, Margaret (Schatzie) Owens. The Home
Association Board of Directors include Eva Day, Clint and Terri Holmes, Eva Lloyd, Brigitte Robinson and Andy Schellenberg. Guests at the November meeting were Stephanie Stewart and David Lewis.
Steve Schellenberg reported lodge membership is at 305.
Thank you to Eva Day, Brigitte Robinson and Terri Holmes for the lunch.
Terri won the attendance prize.
The Home Association Board for Dallas and Columbia approved lodge projects including eight new windows, some new
carpet, new flooring behind the bar and two new, large televisions for each end of the bar.
Happy Birthday to those who celebrate this month, and prayers are extended to those who are ill or homebound.
Happy New Year!
Members 17 and younger can become Shining Stars!
Shining Stars are fea tured in the Hermann Sons Life news paper and on the Hermann Sons Life website. They also receive a fun packet in the mail.
Shining Stars will be treated to a spe cial outing at Six Flags Fiesta Texas during the
summer of 2023. Sign up befor April to receive an invitation. 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. For more information, contact Leonni Avalos at 800-2344124, ext. 238.
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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.
Name: Birthday: Home Phone: Daytime Phone: Address: City: Zip: E-mail Address: Grade in school: Favorite food: Pets:
Favorite TV show: Activities:
1.Man made of snow 5.Covers the ground 8.Covers ponds and lakes 9.Season at the end of the year 10.Time off from school or work 12.Flakes that falls from the sky
ICE
Free
It is OK with my parents that I am featured as a “Shining Star” in the Hermann Sons Life newspaper, website and any other advertising publications.
Parent’s Signature:
I am a member of Lodge
Certificate No._______________________________________________________
DOWN 2. These keep your hands warm 3. Month of Christmas holiday 4. Keeps your neck warm 6. January 1st 7. Winter Sport 11. Opposite of hot
DOWN
2.These keeps your hands warm 3.Month of Christmas Holiday 4.Keeps your neck warm 6.January 1st 7.Winter sport 11.Opposite of hot
