New Year, New Look! HERMANN SONS LIFE NEWS January 2026
Inside
4
Retirement Savings
6
Pargmann Shares His HSL Story
10
New Year Goals
In This Issue 03 President’s Message Sales News 04 05 Agent Directory Share Your Story - William Pargmann 06 07 Camp News 08 New Year’s Resolutions Community Spotlight 09 09 Employee Spotlight Kitchen Korner - Mexcian Buñuelos Recipe 10 Fitness Goals 10 12 Just for Fun 13 - 14 Pioneers Memorials 14 14 Donations 15 - 27 Lodge News Follow us @Hermann Sons Life on Instagram and like our Facebook page at Facebook.com/HermannSonsLife
Vol. 129, No. 1 We strengthen community through financial protection and service. DIRECTORS Kimberly Krueger, Chair of the Board David Wolf, Vice Chair of the Board David R. Noak Stan Steiger Laura Tiffin OFFICERS Robin Czarnek, President and CEO Samantha Schulmeier Kelley, Vice President of Operations and COO Teresa Saathoff, Vice President of Sales Liz Napier, Vice President of Finance COMMITTEE MEMBERS LAWS Mary Beam, Pat Bushman, Elizabeth Byron, Agnes Dreibrodt, Kathryn Gloor, Tammy Jones, Jacqueline Klein, Edward J. Muehlbrad, Arthur R. Pfefferkorn, Stephen Prewitt, Sherry Rakowitz, Annette Roecker, Steven Schellenberg, Harry Schriber, Ronald Wiatrek MEMBER BENEFITS Shirley Faske, Paula Gebert, Charles Head, Bradley Klein Cheryl Kluver, Joyce Kneupper, Pam Matula COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT Tommy Daum, Kyle Hartmann, Pat Klotz, Robert Prewitt Judith Schulmeier, Gilbert Shelby, Diane Smith BUSINESS OPERATIONS Gary Falkenberg, Kerry Ginn, Anna Larie Keith Charles Knibbe, David Lewis, Michael Warneke HERMANN SONS LIFE NEWS Elaine Hernandez Soto, Commucations Director 210-226-9261, ext. 279 email: elaines@hermannsonslife.org Hannah Ruiz-Gruver, Assistant Communications Director 210-226-9261, ext. 102 email: hannahrg@hermannsonslife.org The Hermann Sons Life News is published monthly. The news submission deadline is the 10th of each month. For example, for the January issue, the deadline is Dec. 10. News and photos can also be submitted online at hermannsonslife.org under Member Benefits, Lodges, Forms; emailed to elaines@hermannsonslife.org or mailed to Hermann Sons Life, P.O. Box 1941, San Antonio, TX 78297-1941. 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.
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 210-226-9261 • 800-234-4124 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Hermann Sons Life, P.O. Box 1941 San Antonio, TX 78297-1941
2 – Hermann Sons Life – January 2026
President’s Message
2025 a successful year for Hermann Sons Life
By Robin Czarnek President and CEO SAN ANTONIO – Greetings for the new year! As we turn the page on 2025 and welcome 2026, I want to take a moment to reflect on this past year and the direction we’re headed. Despite a challenging year marked by historic flooding, continued inflationary pressures and increasingly heavy regulatory requirements, I am proud to say that 2025 was a successful year
for Hermann Sons Life. Through the hard work and dedication of our committed leadership team, staff and our Board of Directors, we strengthened our organization in numerous meaningful ways. We improved key financial ratios, continued our expense reduction initiatives and are trending toward the benchmark standards of thriving peer fraternals. We are extremely proud of these results, and they reinforce our shared commitment of being good stewards on behalf of our members and lodges. With a focus on long term sustainability, we are ensuring that Hermann Sons Life will remain strong not just for today, but for generations to come. The heart of Hermann Sons Life has always been our people. The holiday season was a powerful reminder of that. I am deeply grateful for the warm welcomes and fellowship shared during our lodge Christmas party visits. It was truly
uplifting to see the joy, camaraderie and especially witnessing the numerous ways our lodges and members helped those in need in the community during the holiday season…embodying our motto of Friendship, Love and Loyalty. A special thank you to everyone who contributed to the Boysville Christmas dessert drive. Helping Boysville has been something our family has been extremely passionate about. I am so appreciative of all the help we receive to make these kids’ Christmas season brighter. Our retirement home residents have been in their new homes for about a year, having relocated in December 2024. They have expressed how happy they are in their new surroundings, now enjoying central heat and air, their own bathrooms and kitchens and handicapped accessible features that enhance their comfort and safety. Our camp registrations have
been very successful, supported by multiple discounts and earlier registration opportunities. These options have allowed families to save money and spread-out payments, making camp more accessible, while improving planning and participation. We are very fortunate to have such a dedicated and experienced Executive Camp Director, Ian Brassett, who stressed the need for these options and he worked hard to ensure they were implemented successfully. It’s been wonderful to see our dance program thriving. Our schools have been busy doing parades, a Nutcracker performance, visiting retirement homes and performing for lodge parties. Our dance teachers are working hard to provide an even more enriching environment and looking into new dance techniques to teach in the future. Additionally, the HSL Youth Foundation, Inc., our 501(c)(3) has completed its first fiscal year,
opening tremendous opportunities to expand support for our youth programs. Through The Foundation, we are strengthening initiatives such as summer camp, grief camp and dance, investing directly in the next generation and the future leaders of Hermann Sons Life and our community. As we look ahead, I’m excited to see what 2026 brings and what lies ahead for Hermann Sons Life. The progress made in 2025, and years prior has built a stronger foundation and I am confident that with continued collaboration, service and dedication, the coming year will bring even more opportunities to grow, serve and strengthen our organization. Thank you for the trust you’ve placed in us to lead HSL, for your support, hard work and dedication. Your willingness to support HSL’s vision and embrace change is what happens when we work as a team to make a positive impact. Together, our future is bright.
Employee Service Awards
President and CEO Robin Czarnek, right, and Director of Information Technology Jon Thompson presented a 25-year Employee Service Certificate to Rebecca T. Henley, Senior Programmer Analyst, during the Home Office Christmas party in December. President and CEO Robin Czarnek presented a 20-year Employee Service Certificate to Director of Information Technology Jon Thompson during the Home Office Christmas celebration.
Happy New Year from the Home Office! The employee Christmas party was held Dec. 18 and included a meal of turkey and ham with all the trimmings, a gift exchange, games, prizes and treats. The highlight of the event was a surprise visit from none other than The Grinch! He kept everyone entertained with his antics!
hermannsonslife.org – 3
Sales
Thank you for trusting us with your protection and peace of mind in 2025!
By Teresa Saathoff Vice President of Sales
As we look back on 2025, we want to etend our sincere gratitude to every member who placed their trust in Hermann Sons Life for their life insurance, annuity, and Medicare needs. Your confidence in us allows our organization to continue fulfilling its mission of protecting families, strengthening financial futures and serving our communities with purpose. This year, more members than ever took time to review their coverage and make decisions that safeguard the people they love. Whether you purchased a life insurance policy to protect your family, opened a MYGA to lock in a guaranteed annuity rate, or completed a Medicare review to
ensure your health coverage is meeting your needs, every choice you made reflects smart planning. Why Members Continue to Choose Life Insurance • Life insurance remains one of the most meaningful gifts you can give your family and provides: • Financial security during life’s unexpected moments. • Debt protection, ensuring your loved ones are not left with burdens you intended to carry. • Legacy planning, helping you leave something lasting for the people or causes that matter most. Your commitment to your family’s wellbeing strengthens our entire membership community. Strong MYGA Rates Help Build
Confident Retirement Interest in our Multi-Year Guaranteed Annuities (MYGAs) remained high since we rolled out the product in June and for good reason. Members appreciate the simplicity and stability of earning a guaranteed interest rate for the full term of their annuity. In a time of economic uncertainty, locking in reliable growth provides peace of mind and a strong foundation for retirement planning. If you have not reviewed your savings strategy lately, now is a great time to explore how a MYGA could help secure your future. Medicare Reviews Ensure You Keep the Coverage You Deserve Reviewing your Medicare plan
annually is one of the most important services we offer. As plans change each year, ensuring your coverage still fits your health needs and budget can make a meaningful difference. Thank you to everyone who reached out to one of our agents to review their Medicare plan during AEP. Looking Ahead Thank you for your continued confidence in Hermann Sons Life. We look forward to serving you in 2026 and helping you and your family stay protected. Take time to call our office to review your existing coverage with Hermann Sons Life. A few minutes today can make a lifetime of difference for tomorrow.
401(k) contributions is the funds are withdrawn prior to taxes, meaning a 2 to 3 percent contribution increase won’t have a dramatic effect on workers’ take-home pay. • Downsize and redirect funds into retirement investment vehicles. Downsizing a home can be a great way for empty nesters to save money, but there are additional ways to downsize. Adults paying for more streaming subscriptions than they can name can trim the
fat by canceling little-used services and redirecting monthly fees into retirement investment vehicles. Adults can downsize their social lives, resolving to dine in more often and even host less frequently or shift toward styles of hosting like potluck affairs that encourage hosts and guests to share the costs of throwing a get-together. These are just some of the unique ways working adults can catch up with their retirement savings.
Tips to catch up on retirement savings Financial firms and other organizations routinely conduct surveys in the hopes of gaining insight into adults’ habits regarding retirement savings. Such surveys rarely paint a rosy picture and typically indicate many working adults are concerned that they aren’t saving nearly enough to retire comfortably, if at all. A recent survey from AARP is among the latest examples to indicate the fear some have regarding a potential savings shortfall during retirement. That survey, released in April 2024, found that 20 percent of adults age 50 and over have no retirement savings, while roughly three in five fear they will not have enough money to keep them afloat once they call it a career. Saving for retirement is vital to long-term financial health and can ensure retired adults have enough money to meet both their needs and wants. Insufficient retirement savings can compromise retirees’ ability to pay medical expenses
and make it hard for them to realize dreams often associated with retirement, such as travel and additional leisure activities. The good news about saving for retirement is there are many ways for those who have fallen behind to catch up. • Find ways to cut back on spending. One of the more direct yet still challenging ways to begin catching up on retirement savings is to cut back on spending in other areas so funds can be redirected to retirement accounts and additional investments. Start by documenting daily, weekly and monthly expenses in a spending journal. After enough data on spending has been documented, examine your spending habits to identify areas where cutbacks can be made so funds can be redirected to retirement contributions. Dining out, entertainment, streaming subscriptions, and travel expenditures may stand out as superfluous luxuries that can be trimmed in the hopes of saving
4 – Hermann Sons Life – January 2026
more for retirement. • Take advantage of alternative income streams. Another direct way to begin saving more for retirement is to begin earning more. That’s easier said than done, but it’s not necessarily impossible to find a side hustle to generate sufficient funds for retirement. Earnings from a second job like a freelancing gig can be set aside exclusively for retirement contributions. • Contribute the maximum to retirement investment vehicles. Retirement investment vehicles like an individual retirement account (IRA) have annual contribution limits, and those trying to catch up on retirement savings are urged to contribute the maximum allowable amount under the law. Certified financial planners can help adults navigate these waters, as some people may be eligible to contribute an extra $1,000 per year. Adults also can increase their contributions to employer-sponsored retirement plans like a 401(k). One of the notable benefits to increasing
Agents Directory Analilia Estrada 210-772-0027 San Antonio
Garrett Czarnek 210-315-8152
Judith Schulmeier, FIC 210-667-1938
Paula Gebert 361-701-7527
San Antonio
Alice, Corpus Christi, Orange Grove
Ana Vasquez, FIC 210-569-4660 Boerne, Comfort, San Antonio, Fair Oaks
Gary Falkenberg, FICF 713-466-6069
Adkins, Cibolo/Schertz, Converse, Fayetteville, Marion, Moulton, St. Hedwig
Annette D. Roecker 830-832-0724 Seguin
Becki Lucas 361-550-9358 New Braunfels Brad Klein, FIC 512-497-0678 Austin, Coupland, Georgetown Britney Cross 281-450-6291 New Braunfels
Carol Lopez 210-683-7241 New Braunfels, San Antonio
Chris Naughton 210-365-2009 San Antonio
Corina Gomez 210-262-3747 San Antonio
Cynthia Sultenfuss, FIC 210-219-6409 Devine
Dan Boenig 210-705-1815 Converse
David Guerrero Jr. 210-800-6758
Brenham, Bryan/College Station, Conroe, Deanville, Houston, Rosenberg Richmond
Gilbert Shelby 214-289-1815
Kenneth Gonzales 210-394-6037 San Antonio
Kyle Hartmann 979-639-1439
Dallas
La Grange, Rutersville, Schulenburg
Gladys Rowley, FIC 210-219-6964
Laurie Steele 210-414-4755
Floresville, Jourdanton, San Antonio
Castroville, Devine, Hondo, Jourdanton
Glenford Boehme, FIC 210-219-9792
Linda Mattocks 512-736-9988
Castroville
Heather Hart 210-412-4041 Bandera, Boerne, Bulverde, Comfort, Kerrville, San Antonio, Spring Branch
Isabel Diaz Servin 210-394-4120 San Antonio
Jacqulynn Herrmann 210-275-0429 Castroville, Hondo
Janice Kuhen 512-393-1431 Lockhart, San Marcos
Janie Flores 210-376-0501 Austin, Houston, San Antonio
John Pacini 210-844-7182 Floresville, Poth, San Antonio
Fayettville, Giddings, La Grange, Paige, Round Top
Lorene Bielke, FIC 830-420-2380 or 830-305-6900 (cell) Marion
Lorraine Anthony 210-617-8165 San Antonio
Marlin Tanneberger, FIC 210-827-7229 La Vernia
Martha Villanueva 830-481-0032 Bulverde, El Paso, New Braunfels, Odessa, San Antonio, Spring Branch
Michael Franke 830-444-4877 or 361-290-3577 Castroville
Reagan Haby Rogiers 210-695-5588 Castroville, Helotes
Richard DeLeon 210-833-8514 San Antonio
Robin Sultenfuss 210-854-4443 Devine
Roxy Pruski 210-218-6204 Adkins, Converse, La Vernia, San Antonio, Seguin
Sandra Jones, FIC 817-781-7155 Forth Worth
Shirley Kuhen Faske 512-789-3975 Austin, Niederwald, San Marcos
Stephen Bonahoom 210-695-5588 Castroville, Hondo
Suzanne Saenz 210-838-2711 San Antonio
Vanessa Meier 210-264-8658 New Braunfels, San Marcos
Wayne Tiffin 361-564-8144 Cuero
Olen Rangel 210-241-0262 San Antonio
San Antonio
«Denotes a Featured Agent
Sales Department: 210-527-9113 • 877-437-6266 Vice President of Sales Teresa Saathoff
Compliance Director Ana Vasquez, FLMI, AIRC, FIC
Administrative Assistant Kathryn Mutchler
Regional Sales Manager David Guerrero Jr.
210-892-0292 teresas@hermannsonslife.org
210-226-9261, ext. 235 anav@hermannsonslife.org
210-226-9261, ext. 242 kathrynm@hermannsonslife.org
210-800-6758 davidg@hermannsonslife.org
hermannsonslife.org – 5
Pargmann shares lifetime of Hermann Sons memories By WILLBURN PARGMANN On December 17, 1952 when I was just 16 years old my parents purchased my first life insurance policy with Hermann Sons, making me a member of their lodge, Hochheim-Prairie Lodge No. 90-2. Since becoming a member, there have been decades of events that have inspired and evolved the direction of my life to date. I am a FIRST YEAR CAMPER and still know two of my fellow first year campers. We had no swimming pool onsite, private swimming pools were used back then. There were four groups of campers in Biebers Hall, two on the lower level and two on the upper level. Each day one group had to do kitchen patrol (KP), which got us extra treats for
the day. We were able to ride horses, play soft ball, visit the retirement home and play games in the dormitory. I was able to travel to and from Camp by commercial bus lines. Years later I ran into one of the camp counselors at the Dairy Treat in Yoakum, and we remembered each other and reminisced about the camp. As time went on, I attended lodge meetings with my parents. In 1958 I got married, and my wife Mary became a member in January of 1959. Sadly, she passed away in 2024, as an over 65 year member. In January, 1972 we received word that the secretary and acting agent for HochheimPrairie Lodge No. 90-2 had passed away. Late that same cold January evening a vehicle drove up to my house and I said “Omy gosh, I wonder what they want!” It turns out it was District Supervisor and lodge President, Sammy Ahr and he informed me that I had been recommended to fill the positions of the late secretary and agent. I said “Whoa, not so fast!” Somewhat interested I asked for a couple of weeks to let the dust settle and think on it.” Brother Ahr didn’t waste any time and set up an appointment with my wife and I, which lasted several hours during which time I had many questions. In the meantime I was appointed to serve as a temporary secretary of the lodge. After much consideration, with the help of my wife, it was decided I would give it a shot. I attended my first Agent Workshop the day before I was officially made the Secretary of Hochheim-Prairie Lodge No. 90-2 at the April, 1972 meeting and a formal recommendation was promptly given to the Grand Lodge, now known as the Home
Office, that I be appointed to serve as the local Agent. That first Agent Workshp was where I began to meet new members and staff from the Home Office. Much to my surprise my phone began to ring almost immediately with customers wanting to join Hermann Sons and existing members wanting me to help them with their policies. Brother Ahr visited me weekly and guided me through the transition period for my endeavor. The
I feel I have been the luckiest person in the world. – Wilburn Pargmann following year my lodge hosted a joint installation of officers and one of the team members’ wives worked in the Membership Department at the Home Office and she let me know that the Home Office knew I was doing a very good job as an Agent. Of all the Hermann Sons members that I learned to know, then Agent and Grand Finance Committee Member Leroy Muehlstein, became very special to me. During an Agent Workshop in January, 1977, Brother Muehlstein asked me if I would nominate him for the position of Second Grand Vice President at the 1977 Grand Lodge Convention. I said, “Do what?!? I wouldn’t know what to do!” He said he would help me and that he wanted a member that was doing a very good job in Hermann Sons to make his nomination. Brother Muehlstein was elected and after the Convention I was appointed to serve on the Grand Lodge Laws Committee. I had the honor of nominating Brother Muehlstein for numerous positions he successfully obtained that followed, including Second Grand Vice President in 1981, First Grand Vice President in 1985 and all five of his Grand
President/CEO terms; 1989, 1993, 1997, 2001, 2005. After the election in 1989, I was asked to serve on the Youth Activities Committee, where I served for a total of 16 years. As a Youth Activities Committee Member, I visited camp twice during camping season each year, attended numerous dance recitals and represented the Grand Lodge at many Local Lodge functions. At the Grand Lodge Convention in 2001 all the business was finished by noon and the banquet was to be held that evening. In the meantime, my wife Mary and I went for a walk and upon returning to the hotel, we were met by Leslie “Pete” Kallies and his wife Dottie. They joined us in our room to have a drink and visit, during which time Pete shared that the four-year term on the Grand Finance Committee that he had just been elected to would be his last and that he intended to retire in 2005. He explained that he wanted me to succeed him. For the next three and a half years, this was our secret. The only other person to know was Grand President/CEO Leroy Muehlstein until the Statewaide Rally in July, 2004 when the announcement was made. During the months leading up to the 2005 Convention, I talked to everyone I could about what my intentions were, and much to my surprise, I ran for the Grand Finance Committee position unopposed. I served three terms, 12 years without opposition. In 2017 when the current Board of Directors format was instituted, I decided not to seek election under that structure as I felt it was time to retire. Being a new kid on the block in 1972, I feel I have been the luckiest person in the world. As far as Hochheim-Prairie Lodge No. 90-2, I served 27 years as Secretary and 29 Years as Agent. I have 5 Grand Children, 12 Great Grand Children and am proud to say they are all members of Hermann Sons. I am now 89 years old and continue to do all I can for Hermann Sons, currently serving as the Manager and Treasurer for the HochheimPrairie Lodge No. 90-2 Home Association.
Wilburn Pargmann has been an active Hermann Sons Life member since he was one of the very first campers in Comfort. He served on several Grand Lodge committees, was a sales agent and a member of the Grand Finance Commitee. He has been active with Hochheim-Prairie Lodge for many years and still serves as an officer today at age 89. Above, Wilburn is pictured with wife Mary at one of the many Retirement Home chili and bean cook-offs they participated in representing Hochheim-Prairie Lodge.
Camp News
Enrollment discounts available for Camp 2026 By IAN BRASSETT Executive Camp Director Early Enrollment Discount! Hermann Sons Life Camp offered it’s first Early Bird Discount and it was a huge success. Many parents with multiple campers were able to enroll in summer 2026 at the same price as last summer when adding the Early Bird Discount and sibling credits to their accounts. Camp is currently at 45% enrolled for next summer which exceeded our expectation. As we mentioned, the price does need to be increased to enable us to provide our campers with the same quality summer camp experience that they are accustomed to. The good news is that the following discounts are still available: Winter discount! We will offer parents the last chance to save on the cost of camp by offering a $75 discount through Feb. 28, 2026. The full price will be in effect starting in March. Sibling Discount - NEW in 2026 We have taken steps to allow our parents with multiple children a sibling discount of 5% off the second child and 10% off the third and all subsequent children in the same household. • This discount will populate automatically when you enroll. Multi-Session Discount NEW IN 2026 Many of our families like to send their children to multiple camp sessions. If you plan on sending your child to multiple sessions, we will reduce the price by $50 for the second (and third or more sessions). • During the enrollment process, you will select the MULTI-SESSION option. Please make sure you use this selection only on your second session for an individual child. • Incorrectly selecting this will void the enrollment and require you to repeat the enrollment process on the first weeks’ application. Member Discount If your child has a current policy with Hermann Sons Life (valid at the time of attending camp in 2026) you are eligible for the member
Hermann HERMANN SONS LIFE Sons Life CAMP Camp A coed, Now n E rolling
sleepaway cam p for children ag ed 7-14 in Comfort , Texas
WEEKLY SESSIONS BEGIN JUNE 7, 2026
FREE CHOICE ACTIVITIES Archery • Baseball Basketball Canoeing & Kayaking Cheerleading Court Hockey Dance • Drama Fishing • Flag Football Free Swim • Ga-ga Golf • Riflery Rocketry • Ropes Course Sand Volleyball Soccer • Softball • Tennis Tumbling • Twirling and so much more!
hermannsonslife.org/camp/ pricing which is $300 off the list tuition. You can claim this credit by entering the code COED2026. Again, this code is only available to children with current policies of Hermann Sons Life (at the time of attending camp in 2026.) CIT Program We still have room for both CIT programs. At Hermann Sons Life Camp, we believe it is important for us to grow our own staff and we’d like to invite you to join our CIT (Counselor-In-Training) program. Our CIT program is a leadership program designed for past Hermann Sons Life campers aged 15 and 16 whose goal is to become a camp counselor. During each session we will also house 20 CIT females and 20 CIT males. We do expect that our program will be very similar to previous summers. Why be a Counselor-in-Training? • Gain a behind-the-scenes experience of the camp community. • Establish job and character references. • Develop new skills. • Challenge yourself regarding personal growth and expanded self-esteem through leadership opportunities. • Gain the ability/skills needed to work with children in a camp community, after school program or any youth program. • Earn community service hours. • Have fun helping kids. • Learn to work as a team.
Counselor-in-Training Job Description A CIT is a mix of camper – Counselor. Please understand that while a tuition is paid, the CIT is not a camper. We have a higher expectation for our CIT-campers. Our Junior members look up their CITs. They will mimic and pattern their attitudes and behaviors along the lines of our CITs (and counselors). As a CIT Camper, and as a potential staff member, you will be peeking behind the scenes at what makes the Camp tick. You will begin to see camp through the eyes of a staff member. Being a staff member at camp is an incredibly fun summer camp job. It is, however, hard work. It is a job. The needs and wants of the campers are always paramount in our actions. This program focuses on making sure that you, as a CIT candidate, are a match to be counselor at camp. It is just as important for you to determine if being a counselor at Hermann Sons Life Camp is a fit for your summers. If you accept the responsibility of being a CIT and fully immerse yourself into the program, I think you will realize that being a counselor at camp provides for so much personal growth and is so much more rewarding than even being a camper! If you are interested in joining the team at Hermann Sons Life Camp, the directions are listed below. How to Become a CIT in 2026 • The FIRST STEP on the road to becoming a CIT is for the applicant to complete the application.
https://hermannsonslife.org/ wp-content/uploads/2025/09/ CIT-Application-202691.pdf • The application is for past Hermann Sons Life campers ages 15 and 16 (as of Sept. 1, 2026) who wish to be considered. • The SECOND STEP will be an interview with the Executive Camp Director. We expect 150 candidates to interview for the limited availability. • Be sure to request an interview time slot as soon as possible. For your convenience, the interviews will be scheduled via Skype, FaceTime, or Google Meet/Chat. – h t t p s : / /c a l e n d l y.c o m / ianbrassett/hermann-sons-lifeinterview –Interviews WILL NOT be conducted after March 2026. • The THIRD STEP is where successful applicants will be invited to enroll in the CIT Program starting Mid-October. – Spaces for successful CITs will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. • The cost of the CIT program is $330/week. (Includes a non-refundable $20 camp store voucher). • CIT Pricing will increase to $400 after January 30. 2026 Grief Support Camp As mentioned previously, the devastating floods that hit the Hill Country in 2025 left thousands of families affected by its wake. We are again partnering with the Children’s Bereavement Center of South Texas to provide two camps in 2026. • The first camp will be the traditional camp aimed specifically at children going through the loss of a significant family member or close friend (not just through the flooding). • The second camp will be a family camp in August with the aim of helping families with counseling to get through difficult situations and give them tools to help process. We will be providing more details in the February Issue on how you or family and friends can take
advantage of the wonderful work the CBCST do for the families and children of San Antonio and the surrounding area. • If you would like to help us, and the CBCST in our efforts you can donate to our Grief Support Fund during the enrollment process. Please mark your calendars Volunteer Workday MAY 2, 2026 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Volunteer Workday coincides with Hermann Sons Life Join Hands Day. It would be wonderful to see one or two lodges taking on some of the many projects we have planned to help improve the summer camp experience for our campers. If you or your lodge can help by donating time or money to help with camp projects on this day it would be greatly appreciated. Open House and Picnic June 6, 2026 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. We’d love to see more people attend our annual Open House. We’ll have door prizes, free swag and a raffle will be held! Proceeds benefit the HSL Youth Foundation, Inc. – Lunch Grilled hot dogs and burgers will be served from 10:30 am. to 12:30 p.m. in the dining hall. – Tours Tours will be held every 30 minutes from the dining hall. – Camp Sore HSL Youth Camp merchandise will be available for purchase from 9:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. – Meet the counselors Meet the camp counselors who will be working with your children. – Activities - 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. The pool will be open! Changing rooms will be available, in the Bobcat cabin for males and the Coyote cabin for females. Other fun activities will include ga-ga, lawn games, arts and crafts and the challenge course. Closed-toe shoes are required for the challenge course. The challenge course will close for a 30-minute safety break from 11-11:30 a.m. The campgrounds will close at 1 p.m.
hermannsonslife.org – 7
A
fter the rush of the holiday season has largely ended, and the excess of the season starts to weigh on celebrants’ minds, it is customary for many people to start thinking about the changes they want to implement in the new year. According to a Pew Research Center survey of United States adults conducted in January 2024, 30 percent of people reported making at least one resolution, with half of this group making more than one. The survey also found that young adults are the most likely to make New Year’s resolutions, with 49 percent of those between the ages 18 and 29 saying they have made a resolution. It’s never too early to start thinking about what to improve upon in 2026, or which goals to set. Here are some common resolutions and how to implement them. • Exercise more. Getting in shape is one of the most popular New Year’s resolutions every year. Gym memberships spike and people often invest in home exercise equipment around this time of year. According to the American College of Sports Medicine, wearable technology continues to be a top trend in fitness and has been a mainstay since 2016. While Fitbit and the Apple Watch series have remained strong contenders, one also may want to invest in the Garmin Vivomove, which boasts wireless charging. Tracking fitness goals can keep those resolutions going strong. • Improve mental well-being. Getting in shape is not the only health-related goal this time of year. Mental health also
comes into play when people make their resolutions. Taking opportunities to slow down and be more mindful can help. One way to do so is through journaling. Human behavior expert and author Natalie Friscia Pancetti, says journaling reduces stress, helps with anxiety, encourages confidence, and can improve perceptions. This is why she developed a journal with inspirational writing prompts as a companion to her “This Too” book and planner. • Quit smoking. Quitting smoking is a worthy goal. Health care experts know smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer and has been linked to more than 27 diseases. Many people want to quit smoking, but the Mayo Clinic says only about 5 percent of people who try to quit succeed without a smoking cessation product. Nicotine replacement items are some of the most popular smoking cessation tools. For those who want to go drug-free, Füm is a device that addresses the three major components of habit formation that occur with smoking. Employing flavored air, the device replaces the fixation of the hand-to-mouth habit with non-addictive plant extracts that are inhaled, simulating smoking without the negative effects. • Learn a new language. Learning a new skill or language is another popular resolution. Today there are many apps available to help people learn one or more new languages. From Duolingo to Babbel to Memrise, there are programs available whether one is a visual learner or wants to jump right into specific phrases.
Community Spotlight
Everybody’s Place restores hope for a better future By PAUL and TRACEY CLINES Founders & Co-Executive Directors of Everybody’s Place of Galveston County GALVESTON – Galveston County, Texas has a population of over 350,000 people. Eleven percent of the residents live below the poverty line. Many of these neighbors are at great risk of falling into homelessness or, often because of circumstances beyond their control, have stumbled into homelessness and are either unhoused or living in uninhabitable situations. Galveston County School Districts report over 2,000 school-age children classified as homeless and yet there is not one housing option in the entire county that addresses family homelessness. In other words, if you have a family and have been working hard to make ends meet, but because of a job loss, medical crisis or car trouble, you can easily find yourself without a safe, suitable and affordable place
to live. There are hundreds of families going through some version of this very reality. They are living in extended stay motels, in their cars or tripled up in small apartments because, in Galveston County, there are no other options. While shelters are necessary, the cry and most fundamental need of every child is a home. Everybody’s Place was established
Employee Spotlight HSL dance instructor teaches at several schools LA VERNIA – Dance Instructor Lori Michelle Booth has been an HSL Dance instructor since 2019. She teaches classes in La Vernia, Lone Oak, San Antonio and Seguin. Lori began dancing at the age of three and has more than 16 years of professional dance training in California and more than 30 years of teaching experience in both California and Texas. Lori has taught for several studios, including her own, which she closed to take care of her son who was diagnosed with leukemia. She has taught many nationally recognized teams, including the 2016, 2017 and 2018 NBTA Southwest Regional and Texas State Dance Champions and 2018 Texas State Pom Team Champions, the third overall National winning dance routine in 1999 and the Overall
Lori Michelle Booth National Champion dance group in 2002. In 2021, she earned the Nationally Recognized Teacher plaque for Showstopper National Competitions. Lori has her certification in both tap and jazz from the Texas Association of Teachers of Dancing.
in 2021 to address the absence of housing for people experiencing homelessness in the Galveston County/south Houston area. Agape Village, our first project, is the first and only option of its kind exclusively for families. Agape Village is a community of sixteen site-built, beautiful homes where residents pay a program fee, never more than 30% of their income.
Each resident is required to work with an on-site case manager to develop their personal goals and a path to successfully achieve them. Residents participate in a variety of classes such as financial literacy, nutrition, parenting, grief support, work readiness and life skills to help them move toward financial stability and independent living. Each home has a front porch, and the houses are in a “U” shape pattern facing a large, interior courtyard to help foster community. The homes include new furnishings to help restore worth and dignity in those who have been made to feel unloved and unwanted. Children are
able to play in safety and develop lasting bonds with other children along with a “village” of people who are investing in their lives. Children will have mentors, opportunities to play sports, take piano lessons, art classes and develop other natural talents that would have been impossible before Agape Village. Our first four families moved into Agape Village right before Christmas and we will welcome the next phase in late February. At Agape Village, residents will discover a community of grace, forgiveness and healing where relationships are formed and hope for a better future is restored. To learn more and make a donation, visit everybodysplace.net Everybody’s Place is a registered 501(C)3. This year, Gulf Lodge supported Agape Village’s new homes by providing kitchen, bathroom and bedding for 15 homes.
Nominations open for Muehlstein Memorial Award for Agents SAN ANTONIO – Nominations are now being accepted for the Leroy Muehlstein Memorial Award for the Agent Fraternalist of the Year. 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
nominate a deserving agent. Nominations will be accepted through March 15, 2026. A fillable nomination form is available on the home page of the website, hermannsonslife.org. 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. “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.
2026 Lodge Planners now available
SAN ANTONIO – The 2026 Lodge Planners are available. A Member Benefits Department representative has been calling lodges to find out your Lodge Planner needs. The Lodge Planner is also available online at hermannsonslife.org – go to the Member Benefits tab – Lodges and scroll down to Lodge Planner/Forms.
For questions or to request planners, please call 1-800-234-4124, ext. 238 or email: lodge@hermannsonslife.org The Lodge Planner is a valuable tool for officers to conduct lodge business and should be carefully reviewed annually for important updates and requirements.
hermannsonslife.org – 9
Kitchen Korner
3 short-term fitness goals
that can lead to long-term success
A Ingredients Buñuelos 2 eggs 2 cups of milk 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 tbs baking powder 1 tsp vanilla 1 tbs sugar
6 cups oil or shortening for frying Coating 1 1/2 cup sugar 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon
Begin by whisking all the ingredients together in a large bowl until they are thoroughly combined. Keep whisking until the liquid is fully incorporated and the batter becomes smooth. Preheat a deep-frying pan or Dutch oven and fill it with 6 cups of vegetable oil. Heat the oil to 350 degrees. Submerge the rosette in the oil an let it heat for approximately one minute. Meanwhile, prepare the sugar coating by whisking together the sugar and cinnamon in a medium sized bowl. Set mixture aside. Carefully remove the rosette from the oil and dip it halfway into the batter. It’s important not to fully submerge the rosette, as this could cause the buñuelo to enclose the rosette and prevent it from releasing properly. Make sure the rosette is hot enough so that it sizzles when dipped into the batter. Return the rosette to the oil and gently shake it until the buñuelo releases into the oil. Fry for about 30 seconds to a minute, then flip it over and fry for another 30 seconds to a minute, until the buñuelo turns golden and crispy. Carefully transfer the buñuelo to the cinnamon sugar mixture and toss it until it is full covered. Recipe shared by Assistant Communications Director Hannah Ruiz-Gruver
10 – Hermann Sons Life – January 2026
s New Year’s Day 2025 approached, millions of individuals were preparing to make changes they hoped would improve their fitness. In a Forbes Health/ One Poll survey of 1,000 adults in the months leading up to the start of 2025, nearly half (48 percent) of respondents indicated improving their physical fitness would be a top priority over the course of the new year. Fitness-based resolutions are popular every year, but people who aspire to make such changes recognize how difficult it can be to achieve them. In fact, the Forbes Health/One Poll survey found that roughly 44 percent of respondents indicated their resolutions flamed out at the two- or threemonth marker. Though there’s no one-sizefits-all strategy for sticking with and ultimately achieving a resolution, identifying short-term goals that can help people stay motivated can lead to long-term progress. Individuals who want to improve their physical fitness can consider these three short-term goals and use them as measuring sticks as they pursue more long-term objectives. 1. Aspire for incremental weight loss. Weight loss goals were the fourth most popular New Year’s resolution for 2024 among participants in the Forbes Health/ One Poll survey. Though that survey separated fitness goals from weight loss goals, the two are certainly linked. Individuals who aspire to lose 10 pounds undoubtedly recognize that such a goal cannot be achieved overnight, so why not aspire to lose small amounts of weight at predetermined intervals? For example, if the end goal is losing 10 lbs., aim to lose two pounds by the end of
January. Incremental progress can motivate individuals to stay the course and ultimately propel them toward achieving a more substantial, long-term goal. 2. Exercise for a predetermined number of days each week. Another way to gradually build toward achieving long-term fitness goals is to establish monthly minimum exercise sessions. Individuals accustomed to a sedentary lifestyle can resolve to exercise three days per week in the first month of their resolution and then increase that by a day in the second month. A consistent schedule when designing this goal is imperative, which is why it can make more sense to plan for three days per week as opposed to 12 days per month. 3. Resolve to walk a mile per day. Walking is an accessible cardiovascular activity that can have a profound effect on overall health. Walking also can help condition sedentary individuals’ bodies for more strenuous activity, which is a transition many people aspire to make when setting long-term fitness goals. A daily one-mile walk won’t require a significant commitment of time, but it can help acclimate the body to routine exercise. As the effects of a daily walk begin to take hold, individuals may find it easier to engage in more strenuous physical activities, making this an ideal stepping stone on the way to achieving long-term fitness goals. Short-term goals can help people remain motivated as they pursue more substantial goals that take longer to achieve. Such an approach can be especially useful for individuals resolving to improve their physical fitness at the start of a new year.
Howie’s Happenings
Howie fighting allergies, while Beau quite the menace By ROBIN CZARNEK President and CEO Our boys had a great holiday, but poor Howie has had a rough go of it these past couple of months. He’s been battling some pretty miserable allergies, which meant extra vet visits and let me tell you, the vet is not his favorite place. Between the itching, experimenting with treatments, and trying to pinpoint exactly what’s causing the problem, our poor buddy has been pretty uncomfortable. We’re still working with the vet to get it all figured out, and everyone’s hopeful that the new year brings relief, comfort, and fewer trips to that dreaded office. Extra treats and cuddles have definitely been prescribed in the meantime. The boys had their cousin, Tig, for a visit. They played non-stop and would wear themselves out with the roughhousing, but they had a blast. Our sweet Beau has been an absolute menace this last month. He doesn’t like it when we’re gone (or knows we’re about to leave) and with the lodge parties and holiday festivities, he has been beside himself. We even had grandparents come babysit to try an help with
his anxiety. He managed to: – Eat Christmas cookies that were meant for a lodge meeting within a minute of being brought in the house (clearly quality control testing) – Shred delivery boxes that gifts came in – Took a box of Saran Wrap through the doggie door and shredded it – Take every blanket in the vicinity through the doggie door and into the backyard – Eat a bottle of dog supplements that had just been delivered (They were supposed to help with itching and thought they might help poor Howie.) Needless to say, Beau kept everyone on their toes and made sure there was never a dull moment. He may have landed himself squarely on the naughty list, but those puppy eyes still worked their magic every time. We’ve never had a pup quite this mischievous, not to mention really, really quick. You cannot set anything down within his reach for even a second or it’s at risk. We worry he’ll get into something that will make him sick and are working
Beau, top, and Howie rest after lots of play and roughhousing with cousin Tig, above left. Howie has been under the weather with allergies. to find better ways of keeping things out of his reach. Howie and Beau are excited to tell you about their new friend, Teddy. This sweet boy doesn’t know a stranger and loves making new friends. He has an incredible personality and is so much fun. Teddy is looking for his forever home and would make a wonderful addition to a family. If you or someone you know is thinking about adopting, please consider giving Teddy a chance to start
Sharing stories that matter By TERESA SAATHOFF Vice President of Sales As we launch our newly redesigned Hermann Sons Life newspaper, we are excited to bring you a publication that better reflects who we are as an organization built on community, compassion and connection. Our goal to share more stories that highlight the members, lodges and traditions that make Hermann Sons Life strong. Instead of always publishing lodge minutes, the meal that was served, birthdays, anniversaries and door prize winners, we want to shine a brighter light on the meaningful moments, the volunteer projects, the acts of kindness, the celebrations and the efforts that strengthen families and improve our communities. Every lodge has a story to tell, and we want to help you tell it. Whether it is a
charity fundraiser, a scholarship presentation, a service project, or a member whose dedication inspires others, these are the stories that show what Hermann Sons is all about. We encourage our lodges to send us photos and human-interest pieces that capture the heart of your lodge and its members. These are the stories that connect us, uplift us and remind us of the difference we make when we work together. Thank you for helping us bring a new spark to our newspaper. We look forward to sharing your stories and celebrating the impact you make. You can submit your own story or contact our Communications Department staff for an interview. Email: elaines@hermannsonslife.org or call 2269261, ext. 279.
the new year with a brand-new beginning. If you’re interested in meeting Teddy or any of the amazing other pups at HOTK9, please email hotk9rescue@yahoo.com to schedule a visit. HOTK9 is a 501(c) (3) no-kill canine shelter dedicated to rescuing pups in need. For more information or to view the amazing dogs available for adoption, visit www.heartoftexasspca.com or find Heart of Texas SPCA/HOTK9 Rescue on Facebook.
Teddy hopes to start the new year in a new forever home. This sweet boy has great personality. To learn more, email hotk9rescue@yahoo. com.
Guidelines Lodges are reminded we want to hear from you! Our members are the lifeline of Hermann Sons Life. Let’s make sure to invite all members to your gatherings by sharing upcoming meeting and event dates, fundraising, activities and news. Required for lodge news reports: • Upcoming meeting date • Meeting time • Meeting location • Photos must be of good quality and resolution (larger file size). If sending from a cell phone, be sure to select large file size, not smallest. All lodge reports for the Hermann Sons Life Newspaper are due by the 10th of each month. While every effort will be made to include reports submitted after the deadline, there is no guarantee there will be room for it once the production process has begun.
The Hermann Sons Life News is published monthly. Members can opt in to receive the newspaper by email in a digital format or have a hard copy mailed by contacting the Home Office. The newspaper is also featured monthly on HSL social media and issues are featured on the HSL website. It is important to remember the newspaper runs ahead of schedule, for example, the January edition deadline is Dec. 10. This is very important to keep in mind when promoting upcoming meetings and events. News reports and photos can be emailed to elaines@hermannsonslife.org, can be submitted online: hermannsonslife. org, go to Member Benefits – Lodges and scroll down to Officer Forms, select Lodge Newspaper Report, or mail to Hermann Sons Life News, P. O. Box 1941, San Antonio, Texas 78297, attn. Elaine Soto.
hermannsonslife.org – 11
Just for fun
Winter Crossword
Across 1. Ice sport played with a puck 4. Fun ride down a snowy hill 5. Neck warmer 6. What birds do when it gets cold 9. Sometimes has a carrot nose 10. Heavy snowstorm 13. Hot sweet drink 15. The color of snow 16. Keeps your hands warm 17. Sleep through the winter 21. A unique crystal of ice 22. Direction birds fly for the winter 20. Mix of snow and rain
Word scramble
Down 2. African American holiday 3. Jack _____ 4. Frozen rain 7. House made of ice 8. Time off from school or work 11. Christmas month 12. Gliding on ice 13. Holiday of giving 14. Opposite of hot 15. The coldest season 18. Frozen spikes 19. Vehicle that clears snow from streets
Winter Color fun
Log Cabin Word Search
Antlers Axe Bear Rug Cabin Cedar Chimney
12 – Hermann Sons Life – January 2026
Chinking Fireplace Hearth Homestead Lantern Lodge Loft Logs
Mantel Notching Pantry Porch Retreat Rocking Chair
Rustic Timber Wood Pile Woodstove
Pioneers ANTON WENZEL LODGE Robert C. Blanchard Michael H. Inselmann Vincent A. Rakowitz David W. Fest Daren C. Hickman AUSTIN LODGE Martha E. Burkhardt Leonard S. Kaderka C.E. Cielencki BOERNE LODGE Lloyd V. Markell BRENHAM LODGE Glenn D. Neutzler
70 70 60 50 50 75 60 50 80 50
BRUNHILDE LODGE Michael R. Vinklarek
50
BRYAN LODGE Cynthia M. Perez
50
CASTROVILLE LODGE Robert M. Reed
60
CAT SPRING LODGE David A. Andreas James E. Schaffner Jr. Sandra A. Haney Bradley S. Froebel Gordon W. Goebel Jr.
75 75 70 50 50
CIBOLO LODGE Milton M. Edge Wanda L. Edge Sylvia J. Horton
75 75 75
COLUMBIA LODGE Grace V. Butler
50
CUERO FAMILY LODGE Iona M. Buchhorn Clifton R. Gips Sondra K. Gips
80 60 60
Brenham Lodge member Jeanette Preuss has received her 60-year pin. Jeanette, 85, has been a member since Sept. 16, 1965, and resides in Brenham.
DA COSTA LODGE Mary M. Duelberg James B. Metting Lorena C. Scherer Robert L. Stock Ronald A. Stock Christopher L. Kucera Eric L. Kucera Matthew W. Kucera
75 75 70 70 70 50 50 50
DALLAS LODGE Roland F. Griffin Jr.
60
D’HANIS LODGE Hermann W. Schlortt
70
DUNLAY LODGE Kathryn A. Steinle Candice R. Behrens Patrice M. Hyatt
70 50 50
EDELWEISS-MAGNOLIA LODGE Charles L. Hilsher 80 Danny R. Moore 75 Carolyn R. Stoffel 75 Kathleen A. Bradshaw-Doby 70 Sharon R. Owens 70 Mary P. Sander 70 Glenn P. Unerfusser 70 Mindy M. Endris 50 Jerry C. Koch 50 GAY HILL LODGE Scott W. Green
50
GONZALES LODGE James H. Padgett Jr.
70
HARMONIA LODGE Jon F. Koch David L. Mainz Glenwood O. Penshorn Jr. Richard W. Meurer III
70 70 70 50
Schulenberg Lodge member Billie Jean Perkins has received her 70-year pin. Billie Jean, 86, has been a member since Sept. 27, 1955, and resides in Bellaire.
HASKELL LODGE Roger A. Moeller Kathryn A. Howard
75 60
HELOTES LODGE Alidor D. Thienpont
60
HONDO LODGE David Christopher
50
HOCHHEIM-PRAIRIE LODGE Lawrence W. Lewis
50
HOUSTON LODGE Judith C. Steffen
80
JOURDANTON LODGE Linda S. Davis
75
KARNES CITY LODGE Jennifer D. Richey
50
KYPFER-SALGE LODGE Marie H. John James L. Boos
75 70
LA VERNIA LODGE Jeanine L. Schoenert
60
LOUISE SCHUETZE LODGE Mary M. Watson Karla S. Jaksik Opal C. Padalecki Elizabeth A. Rakowitz Kathryn J. Rakowitz Opal C. Rakowitz Sue Jo Hall Janice M. Helmers
70 60 60 60 60 60 50 50
MACDONA LODGE George T. Gohmert
60
MARION LODGE Carey L. Haas
70
New Braunfels Lodge member Betty Sabrsula has received her 70-year pin. Betty, 91, has been a member since Oct. 28, 1955, and resides in Austin.
New Braunfels Lodge member Christine McNeill has received her 70-year pin. Christine, 74, has been a member since Oct. 5. 1955, and resides in Canyon Lake.
Schulenberg Lodge member Susan Marlin has received her 60-year pin. Susan, 78, has been a member since Sept. 13, 1965, and resides in Crawford.
Richland Lodge member Marjorie Baker has received her 75-year pin. Marjorie, 89, has been a member since March 14, 1950, and resides in Austin.
See PIONEERS, Pg. 14
Dunlay Lodge member Joel Moss has received his 60-year pin. Joel, 67, has been a member since April 20, 1965, and resides in Hondo.
Dunlay Lodge member Connie Moss has received her 60-year pin. Connie, 70, has been a member since April 20, 1965, and resides in College Station.
Schulenberg Lodge member Helen Steinhauser has received her 70-year pin. Helen, 93, has been a member since Feb. 9, 1955, and resides in Flatonia.
New Braunfels Lodge member Corey Linscombe has received his 60-year pin. Corey, 60, has been a member since Nov. 2, 1965, and resides in Weatherford.
New Braunfels Lodge member Beverly J. Garrott has received her 70-year pin. Beverly, 75, has been a member since July 11, 1955, and resides in New Braunfels.
hermannsonslife.org – 13
Memorials
Pioneers Cont’d from Pg. 12
MCGREGOR LODGE Kenneth B. Knuppel
SAN PATRICIO COUNTY LODGE Janice M. Butler 80 60
SAN MARCOS LODGE Christine L. Mcdonald
60
MOULTON LODGE Alex W. Fairchild Mandy S. Ramirez
50 50
NEW BRAUNFELS LODGE Daniel D. Hayes Gregory C. Guenther
SCHULENBURG LODGE Scott A. Strickland Jeffery R. Koudelka
60 50
75 60
SHINER LODGE Michael S. Sembera
50
75
SIEMERING LODGE Van K. Christiansen
60
SEGUIN LODGE M. Friesenhahn Billy J. Hohertz
60 60
STERN LODGE Durwin C. Niemann
70
TWIN SISTERS LODGE Gerald L. Gass
75
VINETA LODGE Joe C. Meredith Patricia A. Potts Frances D. Ervin Rebekah M. Meurer Rhonda M. Meurer Lisa E. Wurz
75 70 60 50 50 50 70 50
NIEDERWALD LODGE Edgar Reiley Jr. OLD GLORY LODGE Pamela G. Ryno
50
ORANGE GROVE LODGE Lucille C. Klaevemann
75
PAIGE LODGE Belinda G. Hirsch Gregory P. Roeber
50 50
PAUL VOGT LODGE Loyd Pankratz
70
PERSHING LODGE Melinda H. Bryant Kathy L. Kay Barbi Jo Scheel
70 70 50
PLUM LODGE Billy F. Imhoff
70
WACO-ROBINSON LODGE Janice M. Springman Christipher A. Cogburn
POTH LODGE Margie R. Carter R.w. Malcher Jr. Margaret R.a. Taylor
80 80 80
WASHINGTON LODGE Don W. Roese John N. Roese Nancy K. Swank
70 70 70
RICHLAND LODGE Rose M. Janke
80
WICHITA FALLS LODGE Kenneth A. Geis
60
ROSENBERG RICHMOND LODGE 50 John F. Miller Tiffany A. Miller 50
YORKTOWN LODGE Elaine E. Frisbie Kirby D. Garner
To make donations: HERMANN SONS LIFE HOME OFFICE P.O. BOX 1941, SAN ANTONIO, TX 78297-1941. HSL YOUTH CAMP SHANNON GAFFNEY SCHOLARSHIP FUND 288 RIO RANCHERO, PIPE CREEK, TX 78063 RETIREMENT HOME SCHOLARSHIP FUND P.O. BOX 1941, SAN ANTONIO, TX 78297
14 – Hermann Sons Life – January 2026
NAME PETER F. DANYSH ANDREW A. STEHLING JENNALEA K. HILL JASON T. DIAMOND MARIAN L. WILLENBORG JAMES T. BROJER JOHN M. SLACK INEZ M. KOPPLIN HAROLD R. MEINECKE MARGARET A. HANKINS LILLIAN M. WEHMEYER T. JACK WERNETTE HOLLAND M. ZUNKER EDDIE RECHNER DAWLEAN RICHARDSON CECILIA M. FIELDING DARYL L. KALTWASSER OLAN F. KARM TERRY L. EMBREY EMANUEL F. WEISHUHN JESSALYN R. NOWOTNY TERRY L. CAMPION JERRY E. FABIAN TIMOTHY F. MCBRIDE NELDA M. WARZECHA BERNICE M. STARK WOODROW F. BEHRING
LODGE Harmonia Harmonia Stockdale Paul Vogt Comfort Harmonia Edelweiss-Magnolia Pershing Brenham Austin Comfort Castroville New Braunfels Siemering Gonzales Louise Schuetze Edelweiss-Magnolia Castroville Fredericksburg Bernardo Gonzales Gonzales Da Costa Harmonia Yorktown Da Costa Gonzales
DIED Nov. 1, 2023 Oct. 10, 2024 Oct. 31, 2024 Nov. 8, 2024 Dec. 19, 2024 Jan. 8, 2025 Feb. 9, 2025 March 31, 2025 April 26, 2025 May 1, 2025 May 26, 2025 June 20, 2025 July 4, 2025 July 7, 2025 Aug. 1, 2025 Aug. 5, 2025 Aug. 23, 2025 Sept. 9, 2025 Sept. 13, 2025 Sept. 29, 2025 Sept. 30, 2025 Oct. 1, 2025 Oct. 3, 2025 Oct. 6, 2025 Oct. 22, 2025 Oct. 24, 2025 Nov. 4, 2025
Donations HSL YOUTH FOUNDATION, INC. Cuero Lodge
JUANITA PETERS 80 75
AGE 87 71 36 47 80 77 43 102 97 80 99 100 3 91 95 93 71 95 80 93 23 70 86 70 88 86 84
CAMP MEMORIAL New Braunfels Lodge Brenham Lodge Richland Lodge Richland Lodge
TAMMY B. LEMOINE CINDY S. LYLES MARVIN GRAW HARVEY HODDE
CAMP SCHOLARSHIP MEMORIAL JEANENE S. BENTROS PATRICIA M. SCHRIEWER JERRY W. SCHRIEWER
Dunlay Lodge Laubach Lodge Laubach Lodge
GRIEF CAMP, MEMORIALS FOR RETIREMENT HOME AND CAMP CAN BE MAILED TO THE HOME OFFICE.
Lodge News Round Top - Shelby ROUND TOP – Round Top-Shelby Lodge will meet Thursday, Jan. 22, at 6:30 p.m. Members met at the hall Dec. 14 for the Christmas party. Activities started at 11 with refreshments and fellowship. Pin recipients were Charles Mueller Jr., Dan Polasek, Gwen Stork, Jason Wagner, Jason Stork, Julie Leopold and Weldon Krause, 50 years; Ronnie Jahnz, Barton Garlin and Lila Garlin, 60 years; Roger Wunderlich, Ray Ullrich, Kenneth Robinson, Brenda Mueller and Nina Marburger, 70 years. Treasurer Mary Rauch presented a report on the year’s activities. She presented Rodney Reed of the Ledbetter Volunteer Fire
Department with checks from the country store proceeds and Matching Funds of $500 from the Home Office. This was the best year ever with a total donation of $2,030. Kristi Bauer of CASA informed the membership of its assistance to children in foster care and thanked everyone for their continued support. Last year the lodge supported CASA with more than $3,000. A table full of donated items and a monetary donation were presented to Kristi. Everyone enjoyed the “rob your neighbor” gift exchange. Margie Stardig, Earl Fenske and Jolene Mathis won the guessing games. The mystery gift was not identified
so it will be the surprise door prize at the next meeting. Officers for 2026 were elected at the November meeting and they are, President Lila Garlin, Vice President Myrt Meinkowsky, Secretary Jeanette Schoenst, Treasurer Mary Rauch, Community Coordinator Melanie Rauch and Pearlie Wagner was elected to serve on the Finance Committee with Betty Porter and Margie Stardig. The lodge, now merged with Shelby, has 640 members with three delegates for the Hermann Sons Life Convention Assembly on April 27-28 in San Marcos. The lodge will hold the April and October meetings at Shelby Hall. Dates to be determined.
The 2026 Round Top-Shelby Lodge officers are, from left, Margie Stardig, Finance Committee; Pearlie Wagner, Finance Committee; Melanie Rauch, Community Coordinator; Mary Rauch, treasurer; Jeanette Schoenst, secretary; Myrt Meinkowsky, vice president; and Lila Garlin, president. Congratulations to Wayne and Pearlie Wagner on their 59th wedding anniversary this Thanksgiving, Nov. 27.
Attendance prize winners were Carmean Ebner, Lana Limmer, Myrt Meinkowsky, Earl Fenske and La Verne Albers.
Seguin Seguin Lodge prize winners in November were, from left, Kathy and Ernst Hartmann Jr., Carol Kraus, Tim Kolbe, Brenda Schrank, Jeff Kallies, Tammy and Brian Beutnagel and Randy Roecker. New officers were elected and delegates chosen for the 2026 Hermann Sons Life Convention Assembly in April. Cheryl Kolbe was elected president. HSL Youth Foundation Inc. Board Member Brad Klein gave an update on the foundation and retired Agent Carol Krauss visited. The Christmas party was held Dec. 7.
Fredericksburg Lodge presented the 2025 Humanitarian of the Year Award to President Marissa Weinheimer at the annual Christmas party. Pictured are from left, Wanda Starnes, Sandy Fisk, Marissa and Donna Henke who received a plant for her years of service as treasurer.
Fredericksburg
Stockdale Stockdale Lodge collected children’s gifts for the Stockdale Santa Program at the Christmas party held at Lit’L Italy. Everyone enjoyed a nice evening of eating and visiting with one another.
FREDERICKSBURG – Fredericksburg Lodge will meet on Tuesday, Feb. 3, at 6 p.m. at the lodge hall located at 1109 S. Adams St. Dinner will be chili and tamales. Attendees are asked to bring a side dish or dessert. Members voted to sell the lodge hall at the December meeting. Thirty members and guests were in attendance for the annual Christmas party, social time and dinner.
Members also voted to donate $500 each to 11 local organizations. Officers were elected for 2026. Donna Henke was presented a plant for her years of service as treasurer and Marissa Weinheimer was the recipient of the 2025 Humanitarian of the Year Award. David Basse celebrated a birthday, and attendance prizes were given out.
hermannsonslife.org – 15
Lodge News
The Spring Branch Lodge 2026 officers are, from left, Sharon Knibbe, president; Darrell Woody, vice president; and Karen Woody, secretary/ treasurer.
Weslea Miller, Provisions food pantry director, accepted a $1,000 check from Spring Branch Lodge, presented by member Travis Barton, in observance of Make a Difference Day.
Ed and Kay Geffken hosted the meal at the Spring Branch Lodge November meeting.
with Prinz Solms Lodge, purchased ten gifts for the St. Jude Ranch for Children. These gifts were presented at the December Christmas meeting. The lodge also donated $1,000 to Provisions, the Bulverde food pantry. The lodge will donate a $100 H-E-B gift card and a $100 Academy gift card
for the upcoming community Chicken Festival raffle fundraiser which benefits the Bulverde Community Center. Marian Vanausdall was on the sick list. Door prize winners were Ben Havens, Karin Boos, Suzie Kuebel,
Darrell Woody, Phyllis Havens, Kay Geffken, Karen Woody and Sandy Duncan. Ed and Kay Geffken provided the meal. The joint Spring Branch and Prince Solms Christmas party was held Sunday, Dec. 14.
Vineta Lodge members collected clothes and toys for St. PJ’s Children’s Home at the December meeting.
Vineta Lodge member Cecelia Padalecki recently celebrated her 90th birthday.
Spring Branch BULVERDE – Spring Branch Lodge will meet Jan. 18, at 1:30 p.m. at the Bulverde Community Center. The election of officers for 2026 was held at the November meeting. Officers were re-elected and are Sharon Knibbe, president; Darrell Woody, vice president; and Karen
Woody, secretary/treasurer. Sharon, Darrell and Karen were the chosen delegates for the April 2026 Hermann Sons Life Convention Assembly. Ed and Kay Geffken and Chuck Knibbe were chosen as alternates. For Make a Difference Day, the lodge
Fort Worth FORT WORTH – Fort Worth Lodge will meet again on Sunday, March 1. More details to come. The lodge welcomed Victoria Highsmith from New Beginnings at the December meeting. She read a thank you note from the organization and explained how the toys the lodge donated would be distributed to children who would otherwise go without if not for donations from organizations such as ours. Thank you to Mike Thompson, Renee Rudloff-Baker, Henley Baker, Elsa Baker and Sandra Jones for shopping for the toys. The election of officers was held, and they are, President Shannon Jones, Vice President Scott Baker, Secretary Sandra Jones, Finance Committee, Darlene Jones, Mike Thompson and Kit Behringer; and Youth Committee Chair Renee Rudloff-Baker. Sandra was elected as a delegate to the Hermann Sons Life Convention Assembly. Members voted to give four camp scholarships this year. Winners were
Jameson Wiginton, Tripp Wiginton, Elsa Baker and Henley Baker. These four campers came to the September meeting and spoke about how much they enjoyed camp and how they would like to win a scholarship. Congratulations! Youth Committee Chair Renee Rudloff-Baker will be sending out t-shirt order letters to all eligible campers and CITs. Please return to her as soon as possible or email your request so t-shirts can be ordered. If your child would like to submit a t-shirt design, please include it with their letter or email reneebaker@aim.com. If a letter is not received, please email Renee or call her at 972-5229687. Chris and Kecia Andries celebrate their wedding anniversary on Jan. 13. Birthday wishes go to Henley Baker (sweet 16), Trey Castor, Karla Cox, Austin Crater, Collin Crater, Gary Duckett, John Hanna, Jason Johnston, Caden Jones, Bill Lane, Emylea Mithcell, Mike Thompson, Beverly Turek and Ellie Walter.
16 – Hermann Sons Life – January 2026
Vineta
SAN ANTONIO – Vineta Lodge will meet on Thursday, Feb. 5, at 7 p.m. The meal will be breakfast for supper. Pancakes will be provided and members are asked to bring a breakfast side. A meeting will not be held in January due to the holiday. Members collected clothes and toys for St. PJ’s Children’s Home. The lodge supports St. PJ’s several times a year, including a back-toschool supply drive and Christmas gift drive. A meal of chili and tamales was served for the Christmas gathering
in December. On a sad note, Secretary/ Treasurer Ruth Bailey passed away on Nov. 16. Ruth was a member for 72 During Ruth Bailey years. those years, she was very involved with Hermann Sons Life. She followed in her father’s (Paul Metzger) footsteps and was a sales agent for 32 years. Ruth was also appointed to the
Laws Committee and served for 16 years, served on the Retirement Home Committee for eight years, served on the San Antonio Home Association Board for 18 years and was president of the lodge several times over the years. For the last 14 years she served as secretary/ treasurer of Vineta Lodge. Ruth was also active with the Hermann’s Happiness Fiesta event and much more. Ruth will be missed, but her memories and the inspiration of her life will not soon be forgotten.
Lodge News San Marcos SAN MARCOS – San Marcos Lodge will meet on Monday, Feb. 2, at 11:15 a.m. at the Olive Garden restaurant in San Marcos. Wear red in honor of American Heart Month and Valentine’s Day. The annual Christmas party in December was held at the Zorn Bowling Club. The festivities included guessing games, bingo with beautiful poinsettia plants and dollar coins for prizes, and arts and crafts activities for juniors. Monetary donations and food items were collected for the Hays County Food Bank. Membership pins were presented. Recipients were Beverly Stoffel and Danny Preuss, 60 years; John Jay Stokes, Jr. and Peggy Meiners, 70 years; and Robert H. Hageman, 75 years. Janet Magin was presented the 2025 Humanitarian Award. Officers for the 2026 year are President Shirley Faske, Vice President Agnes Dreibrodt, Financial Secretary Janice Kuhen and Financial Trustees: Earlene
San Marcos Lodge President Shirley Faske delivered Thanksgiving greeting cards to Makenzie Fritsche of Cypress Rehab for the lodge’s Make A Difference Day project.
San Marcos Lodge Financial Secretary Janice Kuhen, left, and President Shirley Faske presented Thanksgiving greeting cards to Parker Mayland of Sage Springs Senior Living for the residents. The card project was in observance of Make a Difference Day.
Acrey, Janet Magin, and Betty Rust. Appointed officers are, Membership Coordinator Mary Jane Smith, Communication Coordinator Allison Magin, Youth Coordinator Charlotte Trapp, Community Coordinator Lillian Cargil, Cheer
Sage Springs Senior Living and to Makenzie Fritsche of Cypress Rehab to give to their residents during the Thanksgiving dinner. Happy birthday wishes were sung to Janice Kuhen and Billy Preuss. The Cheer Committee reported a
sympathy card had been sent to the Monty Strohmeyer family. President Faske thanked everyone who helped with the event, who brought items and monetary donations for the food bank and all who attended.
Cibolo Lodge members celebrating birthdays in December were Janet Triesch, Aubrey Triesch, Joylene Herrera and Ernie Kropp.
Cibolo Lodge members Joy and Johnny Brown celebrated an anniversary in December.
Committee members, Mary Jane Smith and Betty Schawe and Historian Irene Bierstedt. The Make a Difference Day project Thanksgiving greeting cards were delivered to Parker Mayland, Community Sales Manager at
Jackson County EDNA – Jackson County Lodge elected 2026 officers at the November meeting. The officers are President James Fait, Vice President Sam Matlock, Secretary-Treasurer Janice Fait and Finance Committee members Nathan Besler, Robert Fait and Brook Belicek. Janice was selected as a delegate
to the 49th Hermann Sons Life Convention Assembly, and Sam was selected as an alternate. The lodge donated $1,000 to the Jackson County Youth Fair. Six exhibitors have sent thank you ntes. Members voted to donate $500 to Jackson County Helping Hands, a local non-profit organization that helps those in need.
McGregor MCGREGOR – McGregor Lodge will meet on Tuesday, Feb. 3, at 5 p.m. at the Olive Garden. A meeting was not held in January. President Doris Mooney welcomed everyone at the December gathering held at Saltgrass. Teresa Sneed and Doris Mooney gave out
Christmas gifts. A thank-you note from Rhett Revolution for the lodge’s donation to the McGregor Food Pantry was read. We are so blessed that we can help the needy. Jerome and Diane Weinstrom were wished a happy birthday.
CAT SPRING – Bernardo Lodge will meet Wednesday, Jan. 21, at 6:30 p.m. All officers were re-elected for 2026 at the November meeting. The Christmas party was scheduled for Dec. 10. The lodge
donated $100 to the Deputy Santa program and poinsettias were purchased to send to members residing in nursing homes. Door prize winners were Anita Zaskoda and Beatrice Hill.
Bernardo
Cibolo CIBOLO – Cibolo Lodge held its annual Christmas Party at GG’s Restaurant in Marion on Sunday, Dec. 7, with 39 in attendance. Special guests were President and CEO Robin Czarnek and her husband Dave. Robin gave an update on safety measures being taken at Hermann Sons Life Camp in light of the flooding in July that affected other camps in the area. Robin also presented the lodge
with two hand-made wooden Hermann Sons Life ornaments Dave made. Everyone enjoyed the pork steak dinner and delicious desserts. Congratulations to Alvin Schulz, one of our 75-year members who won the 50/50 cash drawing! Regular meetings will not be held in January or February, but an officers’ meeting is planned for January, date to be determined.
The Finance Committee will also meet to complete the fourth quarter financials for 2025. Celebrating December birthdays were Janet Triesch, Aubrey Triesch, Joylene Herrera and Ernie Kropp, and Joy and Jonny Brown celebrated an anniversary. We thank everyone who attended the celebration and wish everyone a safe and Happy New Year!
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Lodge News Brenham BRENHAM – Brenham Lodge will meet Friday, Jan. 9, at the lodge hall. Doors open at 5 p.m., the meal is at 6:15 p.m., and the meeting starts at 7:15 p.m. The meal will be stew and members are asked to provide desserts. The annual Christmas party was held on Sunday, Dec. 7, at the lodge hall. HSL President and CEO Robin Czarnek and her husband David were guests of honor. She talked about the youth camp, the July flood, the Retirement Home and the financial stability of HSL. Robin presented a 60-year pin to Doris Falkenberg, a 70-year pin to Debra Heidemann and 75-year pins to Will Blakemore, Gary Falkenberg and Billie Schomburg. President James Hyvl presented the Humanitarian of the Year Award to Ernie Oberrender, Kevin Goessler and Bill Rowan for their service to the lodge and the community. Santa Claus was a surprise guest. Everyone enjoyed a catered meal of turkey, and ham with sides. Officers for 2026 were elected at the November meeting. They are, Billy Ruemke, president; Gary Falkenberg, vice president; Ashley Fehrle, secretary/treasurer; Ronald Bentke, Mark Boeker, Karl Goessler, Doris Falkenberg and Shirley Rowan retained their previous positions. The lodge welcomes new transfer members Linda, Tim and Troy Bentke. Lena Mae Goessler and Ron Bentke celebrated birthdays and Todd and Darlene Hertel celebrated their wedding anniversary. James Hyvl and Doris Falkenberg won door prizes.
Brenham Lodge President James Hyvl, left, presented the Humanitarian of the Year Award to Bill Rowan, Kevin Goessler and Ernie Oberrender during the Christmas party in December.
President and CEO and Robin Czarnek, left, presented a 70-year membership pin to Debra Heidemann during the Brenham Lodge Christmas party.
President and CEO and Robin Czarnek presented 75-year membership pins to Brenham Lodge members Will Blakemore, Gary Falkenberg and Billie Schomburg at the Christmas party.
President and CEO and Robin Czarnek, left, presented a 60-year membership pin to Doris Falkenberg at the Brenham Lodge Christmas party in December.
Brenham Lodge recognized anniversary celebrants Todd and Darlene Hertel in November.
Brenham Lodge members Ron Bentke and Lena Mae Goessler celebrated birthdays in November.
Pictured at the Brenham Lodge Christmas party are, from left, David Czarnek, President and CEO and Robin Czarnek, President James Hyvl and Robin Mann.
Old Glory Santa was a surprise guest at the Brenham Lodge Christmas party. He is pictured with Kylie Cafero, Lyra Cafero and Emil Olerrender.
18 – Hermann Sons Life – January 2026
OLD GLORY – Old Glory Lodge will meet Sunday, Jan. 4, at 4 p.m. Hamburgers are on the menu, and members are asked to bring sides and desserts. In December, members voted to rent the building to Aspermont Event Planners on Feb. 13 for a dance, steak supper and games.
This is community service on our part. Trustee Terry Letz will work on replacing the heater in the dining area. Terry Letz celebrated a birthday and Don and Pat Pyron celebrated an anniversary in December. Michael Pyron won the door prize.
Lodge News Boerne
BOERNE – Boerne Lodge will meet on Friday, Jan. 2, at 12 p.m. at the Center, 17 Old San Antonio Rd, in Boerne. The lodge celebrated Christmas with a party on Dec. 6, at El Rio Mexican Restaurant. Director of Finance/Controller Liz Napier was a guest from the Home Office and presented the Humanitarian of the Year Award to Olga McGlothing. Olga was chosen for her years of dedicated hard work, countless volunteer hours and her continuing commitment to the Closet Thrift Shop located in The Center, its members and to the Boerne community. Door prize winners were Jacquie Faecher, Kathy Kunz, Marilyn Vogt, James Meckel, Lloyd Markell and Ron and Debra Martin. Happy birthday wishes to
Boerne Lodge held the annual Christmas party on Dec. 6 at El Rio Mexcian Restaurant. December celebrants, Alice Quinn and Ana Vasquez, and to January birthday celebrant, Barbara D’Spain. The 2026 monthly lodge meetings will be held on Feb. 6, March 6, April 3, May 1, June 5, July 3, Aug. 7, Sept. 4, Oct. 2, Nov. 6 and Dec. 4. Boerne
Plum Lodge presented a donation to Hospice Brazos Valley recently. Pictured are Jackie Wessels presenting a check to Cindy Fanning accompanied by Christina Carden, Cheyenne Maldonado, Kelly Muzny, Amanda Ulrich and Liz Jones.
Plum WEST POINT – Plum Lodge will meet on Monday, Jan. 12, at 5 p.m. at the Prairie Valley School House. Dinner will be provided. Please join us for fun and fellowship. The lodge acknowledges the following 2025 membership pin recipients. Receiving 50-year pins were Byron Gross and Victoria Kennon; 60-year pins, Barry Bogart, Michael Dworaczyk, Donald
Hagemann, Lawrence Hatfield, Lisa Oltmann, Anne Schultz and Steven Schultz; 70-year pins, John Stahmer, Rebecca Kelly and Bonnie Sladek; and 75-year pin, Ruby Sanders. The lodge is looking for a member to fill the position of trustee. Please contact the lodge if interested in this position. The lodge recently presented a donation to Hospice Brazos Valley.
Lodge members are encouraged to attend meetings held from noon to 2 p.m. at The Center, 17 Old San Antonio Rd, Boerne. Lunch is served at noon, but reservations must be made by 9 a.m. the day of the meeting. Call 830-249-2114.
Director of Finance/Controller Liz Napier from the Home Office, right, presented the Boerne Lodge Humanitarian of the Year Award to Olga McGlothing during the Christmas party on Dec. 6.
Columbus
Columbus Lodge held a Christmas party on Dec. 8 at Schobel’s Restaurant with special guest, Vice President of Sales Teresa Saathoff in attendance. Janet Wienken will serve as delegate at the Hermann Sons Life Convention Assembly in April. The lodge will meet on Monday, Feb. 9, at 6 p.m. at Schobel’s.
Cameron Cameron Lodge met at Circle S in Cameron for its annual Christmas party. Members and guests enjoyed a barbecue dinner with all the trimmings. Pictured are birthday celebrants Nanette Wells, Pat Barcak and Douglas Buck. The next meeting will be held March 17 at the Dairy Queen in Cameron.
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Lodge News Houston HOUSTON – Houston Lodge will meet on Monday, Jan. 12, at Don Jose’s at 5305 Antoine Drive. Members gathered Dec. 6 at Logan’s Roadhouse, for the Christmas party. After dinner, President Jack Manchack introduced Vice President of Operations and COO Samantha Schulmeier Kelley and her husband Jonathan. She talked about changes to the Hermann Sons Life Newspaper and read all the names of those who received membership pins this year. Samantha presented pins to Reuben Heldberg, 75 years, Peggy Haas, 70 years, and Rebecca Rabon, 70 years. In November, the election of officers for 2026 was held. They are Patricia Bushman, president; Karole Coleman, vice president; J. R. Coleman, financial secretary; and Catherine Manchack, corresponding secretary. Elected trustees are Jeff Krahn, Rebecca Rabon and James Ellison. The lodge recognized veterans, Reuben Heldberg, National Guard, Gary Falkenberg and Jack
Reuben Heldberg received his 75-year membership pin from Vice President of Operations and COO Samantha Schulmeier Kelley during the Houston Lodge Christmas party. Manchack, Air Force, J. R. Coleman and Jeff Krahn, Army. Betty Dawkins was welcomed back after a long recovery. Happy birthday was sung to Patricia Bushman, Betty Dawkins, Reuben Heldberg and J. R. Coleman. Anniversary celebrants were
Rebecca Rabon, left, received her 70-year membership pin from Vice President of Operations and COO Samantha Schulmeier Kelley during the Houston Lodge Christmas party.
Jack and Catherine Manchack, 50 years; James and Darlene Ellison, 59 years; and Darrell and Judy Muske, 50 years. For any questions, contact Corresponding Secretary Catherine Manchack at 832-443-0469 or email cnmanchack@gmail.com.
Pershing SAN ANTONIO – Pershing Lodge will meet Saturday, Jan. 3, at 10 a.m. Members are asked to bring sides for the meal, and games will follow the meeting. If you would like to attend, please call the office at 210-227-3085. We would love to have you. Members have voted and lodge meetings will now be held on the first Saturday each month. Time to be announced. The December meeting held at Outback Steakhouse was well attended. It was a great Christmas celebration. Fellowship was the best and everyone shared their plans for the New Year! Donations of Christmas gifts were collected for St. P.J.’s Children’s Home. Beth Warne and Anita Eggert celebrated birthdays and received prizes. At the October meeting, donations were collected for the Live Oak Fire Department for Make a Difference
Peggy Haas, left, received her 70-year membership pin from Vice President of Operations and COO Samantha Schulmeier Kelley during the Houston Lodge Christmas party. Pershing Lodge members gathered at Outback Steakhouse for a Christmas celebration in December. Day. Beth Warne and Janilla Kilborne delivered the donations. Happy New Year and many blessings to all our families and friends.
20 – Hermann Sons Life – January 2026
Pershing Lodge recognized birthday celebrants Beth Warne and Anita Eggert at the Christmas celebration.
Paige PAIGE – Paige Lodge will meet on Sunday, Jan. 11, at Meyers Sausage in Elgin at 12 p.m. Members enjoyed a nice Christmas dinner in December. A get-well card was sent to LaVerne Mattiza and condolence cards were sent to the families of Phillip Procell and Gleroy Ebner. Sandra Botkin was wished a happy birthday. Halle Dube was the dollar-pot
winner and Milton Ihlo won the attendance prize. There was also a drawing for Christmas gifts. A big thank you to President Chelle Dube for her leadership and making meetings comfortable and enjoyable each month. Also, thank you all the officers who volunteer their time to keep our lodge active. We are looking forward to another good year and wish everyone a Happy New Year.
Lodge News Paul Vogt BOERNE – Paul Vogt Lodge hosted a lively membership celebration on Dec. 6 filled with fellowship, recognition and holiday cheer. Members and guests gathered at the lodge hall to honor achievements, enjoy a festive meal, and share in the spirit of community. Regan Munn was honored as the recipient of the Humanitarian of the Year Award for his outstanding volunteer work. His dedication to helping with repairs and clean-up duties has been vital to the lodge’s upkeep and spirit of service. Geraldine Pfeiffer was proudly presented her 75-year membership pin, a remarkable testament to her lifelong commitment to Hermann Sons Life. Adding to the holiday magic, Santa Claus – portrayed by member Caden Munn – delighted the crowd with his surprise appearance. Bearing gifts, he brought joy to all the boys and girls in attendance. The evening also included a birthday celebration for Doris Beath, with members joining in to honor her special day. The celebration concluded with a hearty lodge-prepared meal featuring chili, Frito pie and a variety of desserts contributed by members. The shared meal reflected the lodge’s tradition of hospitality and togetherness.
Paul Vogt Lodge President Betty Friar, left, presented the Humanitarian of the Year Award to Regan Munn during the Christmas celebration in December. Also pictured is Financial Secretary Pamela Poulk.
Paul Vogt Lodge President Betty Friar, left, presented a 75-year membership pin to Geraldine Pfeiffer during the Christmas party along with Financial Secretary Pamela Poulk.
Santa, aka Caden Munn, made a surprise appearance at the Paul Vogt Lodge Christmas party in December.
Paul Vogt Lodge recognized birthday celebrant Doris Beath, right, pictured with President Betty Friar, during the Christmas party.
Rosenberg Richmond
Louise Schuetze Louise Schuetze Lodge met in the Rathskeller for a short meeting and Christmas celebration in December with delicious appetizers, desserts and a fun white elephant gift exchange. Lori Naughton won split-the-pot, and Mike and Mary Beam celebrated an anniversary. The next meeting will be held Monday, Jan.12, at 6:30 p.m. Join us! Call Janet Abel at 210-363-4022 or Carol Grill at 956-821-7052 for any questions.
ROSENBERG – RosenbergRichmond Lodge will meet Monday, Feb. 9, at 7 p.m. Beef tips will be served, and members are asked to bring desserts. Members met at the Civic Center for the December meeting. Officers for 2026 were elected. They are Calvin Lamensky, president, Fred Maynard, vice president, Cary Lamensky, threeyear Finance Committee member and Cathy Winsor was elected as a three-year trustee. Members brought non-perishable food items to donate to the Helping Hands food pantry. Membership Coordinator Eppie Kostak reported a get-well card
Members and guests celebrating birthdays in November and December at the Rosenberg-Richmond Lodge were, from left, Guadalupe Palacios, Joe Thomason, Kevin Engelhardt, Calvin Lamensky, Sharon Hedt, Joyce Lamensky, Cipriana Negrete and Raymond Negrete. was sent to Jeanette Psencik and a sympathy card was sent to Kevin Engelhardt. Elaine Krause won the $50
drawing. A turkey and dressing meal was served and games followed the meeting.
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Lodge News Siemering SAN ANTONIO – In the spirit of unity, remembrance and the new year, the members of Siemering Lodge proudly completed a heartfelt project that reflects both our mission and our heritage. In early December, lodge members joined together to prepare the historic Hermann Sons Cemetery for the upcoming Ol’ Shavano Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) wreath-laying ceremony held Dec. 13. This annual ceremony honors the men and women who served in the armed forces and our cemetery is home to veterans spanning more than 160 years of American military history from the Civil War (both Confederate and Union) to the Spanish-American War, World War I, World War II, Korea and Vietnam. Few
Siemering Lodge members Gary White, Mark and Christian Lee marked veteran gravesites at Hermann Sons Cemetery in preparation for the DAR wreath-laying ceremony on Dec. 13. cemeteries in San Antonio contain such a sweeping cross-section of service, sacrifice and community
legacy. To ensure that each veteran received the dignity they deserved,
members Gary White, Mark and Christian Lee, dedicated their time to carefully mark each veteran’s gravesite, ensuring they would be easily located by the DAR volunteers. Their work included map reviews, marker identification and meticulous grave-by-grave verification. Their efforts didn’t stop there. The team put the finishing touches on cleaning the grounds, trimming brush, clearing pathways and refreshing the burial plots so that the wreath ceremony would take place in a peaceful, respectful and picturesque setting. A major highlight of this year’s preparation was the unified support of all the San Antonio Home Association lodges who came together and contributed
to hire a landscaping company to restore and beautify the over sixacre historic cemetery. This joint effort exemplifies what Hermann Sons Life stands for: fraternity, service, cooperation and shared responsibility. As we enter January and a new year of lodge activities, this project serves as an inspiring reminder of what we can achieve when we work together. Our cemetery is not only a final resting place, it is a heritage site, a teaching space and a testament to the generations who built our communities and defended our freedoms. Siemering Lodge remains committed to preserving this sacred ground, honoring our ancestors and serving our brothers, sisters and neighbors with pride.
Columbia
Deanville Lodge President Donnie Blinka presented donation checks to Tammy Bolton of Brazos Valley Hospice. The lodge held a roast beef dinner fundraiser and the Home Office contributed Matching Funds.
Deanville
CALDWELL – Deanville Lodge will meet Sunday, Jan. 25, at 2 p.m. at the hall. . In November, President Donnie Blinka presented a check in the amount of $1,245 from the lodge and a Matching Funds check in the amount of $500 from the Home Office to Brazos Valley Hospice. The funds were from the lodge’s annual roast beef dinner drive-thru fundraiser. Thanks to everyone who supported the event and special thanks to the Home Office for the Matching Funds donation. The election of officers for 2026 was held and they are President
Donnie Blinka, Vice President Tammy Jones, Secretary Beverly Blinka, Treasurer Debby Schumacher and Trustees, Janice Norman, Wayne Eichholz and Bennie Jones. Tammy Jones was elected as the delegate for the Hermann Sons Life Convention Assembly, and Beverly Blinka was elected as the alternate. The lodge donated $100 on Dec. 4 to the Food for Families food drive. Thank-you cards were read from the Burleson County 4/H FFA members who were recipients of premium money donated by the lodge at the Burleson County Livestock Show.
22 – Hermann Sons Life – January 2026
DALLAS – Hello from Big D! Columbia Lodge will meet on Sunday, Jan. 4, at the lodge hall at 3 p.m. The December meeting started with a moment of silence in remembrance of Pearl Harbor Day. It was nice to see friends (members and guests). Everyone enjoyed the Christmas party that followed. The Humanitarian of the Year Award was presented to long-time member Stanley Whitehead. The lodge is grateful to him for keeping the books for 17 years, his famous spaghetti dinners (you will see him in the kitchen for Spring Fling), he serves as our coach (especially for Columbia’s best ever bowling team, The Dead Ringers), he continues to chair the annual Oktoberfest, and he’s our favorite
Kypfer-Salge NEW BRAUNFELS – KypferSalge Lodge will meet on Friday, Jan. 2, at 7 p.m. Lasagna will be served, and members are asked to please bring a side or dessert. The election of officers was held at the December meeting. The current officers were all reelected.
Columbia Lodge presented the Humanitarian of the Year Award to Stanley Whitehead in December. The “three old men” as Stanley quoted are, from left, Bobby Wilbanks, Stanley and David Lewis. level headed “Old Wise One.” Thank you, Stanley. The lodge again participated in the Larry Tutson, Jr. Foundation Toy Giveaway on Dec. 20. This
Dennis Koepp and Kery Noble will serve as delegates at the Hermann Sons Life Convention Assembly in April. The attendance prize winners were Kery Noble, Chester Jenke, Merry Brinkkoeter, Kathy No-ble and Tammy Seiter.
event has expanded with toy drives and funds coming from Dallas Songwriter’s Association, KNON 89.3FM, the State Fair of Texas as well as Columbia Lodge.
KypferSalge Lodge recognized birthday celebrants Art Brinkkoeter, Merry Brinkkoeter and Tammy Seiter.
Lodge News Mission-Alamo
Mission-Alamo Lodge held a “visit with Santa” event on Sunday, Nov. 15, in the Rathskeller. There were fun craft activities, refreshments and visits with Santa. Be on the lookout for upcoming 2026 event dates.
Pictured with Santa during the Mission-Alamo Lodge Mission-Alamo Lodge President Diane Cline, center, is Christmas event were Lena Luers, left, and her mother pictured with Mrs. Claus and Santa Claus during the Shelley Gray. Mission-Alamo Lodge Christmas event.
MARION – The first Marion Lodge meeting of 2026 is set for Wednesday, March 18, at St John Lutheran Church, PJ Hall at 7 p.m. The Christmas party was held Dec. 7. The 2026 officer election was held, and current president, Marla Cockerham will enter her second term in the new year with Lana Luddeke stepping in as the newly
regarding summer camp and awarded them with a partial camp reimbursement. Juniors who were not in attendance submitted video essays that were played during mealtime. Fun fact: junior member Walter Brunner can solve a Rubik’s Cube in 16 seconds! That won him bragging rights at camp! Jill LeSage was chosen as the
Marion
elected vice president. Marcie Grubb will continue to serve as secretary, and Kim Seibert will remain treasurer. Santa arrived with two of his elves, and after checking twice, found all our names on the nice list! The lodge thanks Allen Reinhard for playing the part of Santa. Marla introduced junior members who completed an assignment
Marion Lodge presented the Humanitarian of the Year Award during the Christmas party. Pictured are, from left, Vice President Keith Hoegenauer, recipient Jill LeSage, President Marla Cockerham and Secretary Marcie Grubb.
Juniors working the serving line at the Marion Lodge Christmas party are, from left, Brookelynn Campos, her mom Danielle (Next Door Catering) and juniors Kierah McClendon and Savannah Klaehn.
Humanitarian of the Year. She is employed by Marion ISD and her countless efforts to bring the community and school together is remarkable. From planning to organizing, she runs point on some of the biggest and best events of the year. We thank you Jill! Member Rusty Luddeke led us in prayer and Next Door Catering out
of New Berlin filled our plates with a warm, delicious Christmas meal. When game time rolls around, we get competitive and bingo is no exception. Our president knows how to keep us on our toes with new twists on an old game. The Christmas spirit was in full force and evident in the hugs, smiles and laughter that filled the room.
Marion Lodge’s oldest member Thelma Zwicke will turn 96 at the end of December. She is pictured with Santa Allen Reinhard and Elf Beth Tower. Happy birthday wishes to Thelma!
Marion Lodge’s youngest member in attendance at the Christmas party was River Klaehn who wasn’t too sure about the jolly guy!
Bingo and attendance prize winners at the Marion Lodge Christmas party were, back, from left, President Marla Cockerham, Lisa and Henley Moltz, Morris and Shareen Vader, Keighly McClendon, Logan Grimm, front, left, Savannah Klaehn and Aven Grimm.
Marion Lodge junior members, from left, Hudson, Aven, Reagan, Parker and Logan Grimm shared their camp experiences during the Christmas party. Logan completed his CIT requirements and will now be a camp counselor.
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Lodge News Schulenburg SCHULENBURG – Schulenburg Lodge will meet on Sunday, Feb. 11, at 5:30 p.m. Members gathered for the annual Christmas party on Dec. 10 with 38 members and guests in attendance. Hermann Sons Life Board Director David Noak presented Katherine Dittrich with a 75-year membership pin and a 60-year pin to Raymond Dittrich. The Humanitarian of the Year Award was presented to Marilyn Hinze who became a member at the age of eleven at New Bielau Lodge which later merged with Schulenburg. Marilyn owned her own day care for 42 years. She collected food and supplies for people who lost homes due to fires and helped with people traumatized by hurricanes. She volunteers for the Friends of Weimar Library and Schulenburg Senior Connection. She also helps the food bank of Weimar. Marilyn is a member of the Weimar Literary Guild and the Encore Lions Club of Weimar and is a medic for Colorado County EMS. Mary Schroeder sent a get-well card to Junette Rodecap. Thanksgiving cards were sent to Grace Baylor, Bill and Delores Michalke and Nathan and Kathy Loth. The scholarship fund raiser started with Susan Kohleffel announcing ticket winners. She received help from Amber Kohleffel and Ever Kubenka who passed out the prizes. Schedules of 2026 meeting dates were handed out.
Humanitarian Award Committee Chairman Junette Rodecap, right, presented the Humanitarian of the Year Award to Marilyn Hinze during the Schulenburg Lodge Christmas party.
Hermann Sons Life Board Director David Noak presented a 75-year membership pin to Katherine Dittrich during the Schulenburg Lodge Christmas party.
Raymond Dittrich, left, recieved his 60-year membership pin from Hermann Sons Life Board Director David Noak during the Schulenburg Lodge Christmas party.
Pictured at the Schulenburg Lodge Christmas party are from left, Theresa Garlin, Hermann Sons Life Board Director David Noak and Vice President Mary Kay Seifert.
Helotes Rutersville
Rutersville Lodge recognized birthday celebrants, from left, Sherrie Terronez, Roy Weyand and Carol Jenkins at the December meeting. Attendance prize winners were Weldon Hartmann, David R. Noak, Susan Weyand, Kyle Hartmann and Roy. The Christmas party was scheduled for Dec. 13. The next meeting will be held Wednesday, Jan. 7.
SAN ANTONIO – Helotes Lodge will meet on Tuesday, March 10, at 7 p.m. at Braun Hall. A meal will be provided. Congratulations to the newly elected officers for 2026. They are President Rebecca T. Henley, Vice President Georgia
Edmunson, Financial Secretary Susie Michalczak and Recording Secretary Letty Fragoso. Meetings are held the second Tuesday quarterly at 7 p.m. at Braun Hall. In 2026, meetings will be held March 10, June 9, Sept. 8 and Dec. 8.
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24 – Hermann Sons Life – January 2026
Lodge News Twin Sisters BLANCO – Twin Sisters Lodge will meet on Sunday, Feb. 1, at 1:30 p.m. at 1275 RM473 in Blanco. Tamales and chili will be served. President Marcus Ethridge presented the 2025 Humanitarian of the Year Award to Karen Steiger during the Christmas gathering in December. Board Director Stan Steiger was in attendance and gave a brief update on HSL happenings. The 2026 officers were elected, and they are, President Marcus Ethridge, Vice President Marilyn Weidman, Secretary/Treasurer Karen Steiger, and trustees Kent Weber, Jerry Gass and Herman
Weber. Herman filled the trustee position upon the retirement of Stephen Hartmann. Appointed officers are Financial Trustee, Stephen Hartmann; Cheer Committee, Gertrude Hartmann; Youth Coordinator Jennifer Ethridge and Membership Coordinator Deborah Knoll. Herman Weber will serve as delegate to the 2026 Hermann Sons Life Convention Assembly in April. Will Weber will serve as an alternate. Members voted to make a $200 donation to the Blanco Co. Youth Board’s Scholarship Fund. Will and Herman were thanked
for repairing the sewer lines Birthday celebrants were Georgia Hartmann, Guy Hartmann and Gertrude Hartmann, 99 years, Kent Weber and Laurie Hartmann. Jan and Jerry Gass celebrated an anniversary, 53 years. Ethan and Kadan Morash helped select the prize winners. Winner Georgia Hartmann donated her prize to the Building Fund. Tamara Morash won the year-end door prize. Everyone enjoyed a meal of ham, sides, desserts and bingo games. Thank you to Kent Weber for the providing the ham and to the Knolls for decorating.
Lockhart LOCKHART –Lockhart Lodge met Dec. 7 at Smitty’s Market with 25 in attendance. President Nicky Duewall introduced Board Director Laura Tiffin and her husband, Wayne. Laura shared greetings and news from the Home Office. Karen Buckner was selected as the lodge’s third delegate to the 2026 Hermann Sons Life Convention Assembly to be held April 26-28, 2026, at the Embassy Suites in San Marcos. Karen joins Ann Schroeder and Jolene Boring as delegates, and Rudy Schroeder as an alternate. A moment of silence was observed for Charity Jo Kneifel, who died Sept. 1, 2025, at the age of 64. Charity was a member since March 1961. Members voted to be a gold level
President Marcus Ethridge presented the 2025 Humanitarian of the Year Award to Karen Steiger during the Christmas gathering in December.
Board Director Laura Tiffin, second from left, presented pins to members, from left, Billy Ray Buckner, 60 years, Doris Champion, 70 years and John Buckner, 60 years. sponsor for the Golden Age Home’s 65th Anniversary Celebration. December birthday celebrants were Agent Janice Kuhen and Nancy
Hess. Rudy and Ann Schroeder celebrated 57 years of marriage. Everyone enjoyed a meal and bingo following the meeting.
Lockhart Lodge members enjoyed a meal and bingo games at the Christmas gathering in December held at Smitty’s Market.
Anton Wenzel Anton Wenzel Lodge celebrated Christmas with a Mexican dinner with tamales in December. Members played games and a raffle was held for presents. The lodge will now meet quarterly starting in March 2026. Meetings will be held March 3, June 2, Sept. 1 and Dec. 1. A crispy taco dinner will be served in March. Members are asked to bring a side dish. The lodge wishes everyone a Happy New Year!
Blandina Mendez won split-the-pot at the Anton Wenzel Lodge December meeting.
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Lodge News Kirby KIRBY – Kirby Lodge will meet on Monday, Jan. 5, at 7 p.m. at the hall, 210 Bauman in Kirby. The lodge will provide the main course, and members are asked to bring sides and desserts. The next meeting will be held Monday, Feb. 2, at 7 p.m. The lodge will provide the main course. Members are asked to bring sides and desserts. The Christmas party was a great success. The Humanitarian of the Year Award was presented to Sandra Cielenski. Members enjoyed a wonderful catered meal of bacon wrapped chicken breast and wonderful desserts. Everyone enjoyed the games of bingo and celebration of the season. Door prizes were awarded. Carolyn Worsham won the $75 quarterly attendance prize. We thank everyone
Kirby Lodge President Carroll Gloor presented the Humanitarian of the Year Award to Sandra Cielenski during the Christmas party in December. who attended. The food drive was also a success. We appreciate all who donated. Officers elected in November will
be installed at the January meeting. Happy birthday to December celebrants, Holly Osburn and Sandra Cielenski.
Prinz Solms BULVERDE – Prinz Solms Lodge will meet on Sunday, Jan. 11, at 5 p.m. at the Bulverde Community Center. President Russell Boss introduced Spring Branch Lodge President Sharon Knibbe during the lodges’ joint Christmas celebration. Doug Klabunde introduced Nicholas Pinkerton as the 2025 Humanitarian of the Year Award recipient. Nicholas has worked in area cemeteries placing flags, cleaning headstones and helping people navigate the Veterans Administration process to get veteran memorials. Nicholas works diligently to provide a final place for veterans. Sharon and Russell made a joint presentation to St. Jude’s Ranch for Children. The donated supplies and items will be used at therapy areas to help children displaced from home due to abuse, neglect, or other issues. Visions of sugarplums danced in our heads as several groups of students from the Hill Country dance class performed. The young dancers were very cute, provided entertainment and showed their improving skills. Members and guests enjoyed a Bill Miller’s turkey dinner.
Enjoying the Kirby Lodge Christmas party festivities were, from left, Isabella and Gabriela McQuatters, Ellie Santos, Kylie Stuman, Molly Harton, Tinley Stuman and Noelle Sears.
Hill Country dance class students entertained members and guests during the Prinz Solms and Spring Branch lodges Christmas party.
Prinz Solms Lodge President Russell Boss presented the 2025 Humanitarian of the Year Award to Nicholas Pinkerton during the December Christmas party.
26 – Hermann Sons Life – January 2026
Prinz Solms and Spring Branch lodges presented donations of therapy items to St. Jude’s Ranch for Children employees and volunteer during the joint Christmas party.
Lodge News Harmonia SAN ANTONIO – Harmonia Lodge will meet on Thursday, Jan. 8. For the January meal, lodge members are encouraged to bring their best pot of chili for the Harmonia Annual Chili Cookoff! The lodge will provide tamales. Members are asked to bring side dishes and desserts. The lodge celebrated Christmas at the December meeting with a ham dinner and sides. A donation of toys was presented to Blue Santa. Thank you to Mission-Alamo, Vineta, Siemering, Pershing and Brunhilde lodges for joining Harmonia and helping make a generous donation possible. The San Antonio dance school students entertained. If you have a child interested in dance, call teacher Lori Booth at 210-5737796.
Toy donations were presented to Blue Santa during the Harmonia Lodge Christmas party. Pictured are, from left, Brad Dietrich of Harmonia Lodge, Joyce Kneupper, Mission Alamo; Emily Roberts, Vineta; and Harmonia President Matther Kraus. The lodge mourns the loss of members, James Thomas Brojer who died on Jan. 8, 2025, at the age of 77. He was a member since
Jourdanton
Hermann Sons Life Board Director David Noak, right, presented a 75-year membership pin to James Magel during the Jourdanton Lodge Christmas party on Dec. 11.
Jourdanton Lodge Financial Secretary Sheila Merrell, left, presented a $500 Matching Funds check to Cheyenne of Safe Path Family Violence Shelter for its 31 Nights of Shelter campaign.
1959; Timothy Franklin McBride who died on Oct. 6, 2025, at the age of 70. He was a member since 1955; and Robert Thomas Foegelle
Students from the San Antonio dance school entertained at the Harmonia Lodge Christmas party held in December. Jr. who died on Nov. 4, 2025, at the age of 80. He was a member since 1962. May they rest in peace. Attendance prize winners were
Mike Gumpp and James Lay. Joyce Kneueper won split-the-pot and donated her prize to the food pantry.
New Braunfels NEW BRAUNFELS – New Braunfels Lodge will meet on Sunday, Jan. 4, at 3 p.m. Karen Harborth will host, and officers will be installed. For the meal, the meat will be furnished, and members are asked to bring sides and or desserts. A memorial service for members who died in 2025 will be held in February. For the December meeting, the hall featured a Christmas tree, garlands, lights and candy on the tables. President Violet Tanneberger introduced Garrett Czarnek, new Member Benefits Representative at the Home Office. He presented membership pins to Robert Warnecke, 75 years, Dorothy Ebert, 75 years, Tina Lindeman, 70 years and Karen Brehmer, 70 years. The pin recipients shared memories of camp and dance classes. Garrett also shared his memories, news from the Home Office and greetings from President and CEO Robin Czarnek. Happy Birthday was sung to Max Ebert, Shirley Huebinger and Lorin Brehmer. Shirley and Michael Huebinger celebrated an anniversary.
Membership pins were presented during the New Braunfels Lodge December meeting. Pictured are from left, recipients Robert Warnecke, Dorothy Ebert, Member Benefits Representative Garrett Czarnek, recipients Tina Lindeman, Karen Brehmer and President Violet Tanneberger.
New Braunfels Lodge recognized anniversary celebrants Michael and Shirley Huebinger.
Celebrating December birthdays at New Braunfels Lodge were Max Ebert, Shirley Huebinger and Lorin Brehmer.
Carols were sung and attendance prizes were presented. Social member Dorothy Schneider
donated four gifts. Everyone enjoyed a catered meal.
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P.O. Box 1941 San Antonio, TX 78297-1941
24 – Hermann Sons Life – January 2026