March 2023

A message from President and CEO

➤ Pg. 2

Top-selling agents for 2022 listed ➤ Pg. 5

Survivor shares

Pearl Harbor story ➤ Pg. 10-11

hermannsonslife.org

Camp 2023 registration opens in March

COMFORT – Registration for Hermann Sons Life Camp 2023 opens this March. Returning campers will receive an email with Camp information and registration instructions. Eligible juniors who have not attended camp will receive information by mail.

Junior members ages 9-14 can enjoy a week in the Texas Hill County. Located in Comfort, six one-week sessions are offered at the Riverside Camp for girls and the Hilltop Camp for boys. Two Mini-Camp sessions for juniors aged 8-9 will be held this year as well as the annual Grief Support session.

The schedule is Session 1, June 11-17; Session 2, June 18-24; Session 3, June 25-July 1; Session 4, July 9-15; Session 5, July 16-22; and Session 6, July 23-29. The Grief Support Session will be held July 5-8 and the MiniCamp sessions are scheduled for July 5-8 and July 30-Aug. 2.

The fee for a full-week session is $325 and includes a $20 non-refundable Camp store voucher.

Weeks for attendance are assigned by order received through the registration process. After May 15, second week options become available.

Campers are grouped in cabins according to their age. Cabins are air-conditioned complete with showers and full bathrooms.

Campers spend the day participating in daily activities ranging from crafts to sports, performing arts to adventure activities. Meals are served cafeteria-style in air-conditioned dining halls.

For more information, see Pg. 8 where Executive Camp Director Ian Brassett shares his latest Camp news.

For policy information and how to become a member, contact the Hermann Sons Life Sales Department at 210-527-9113 or 877437-6266.

LAWS COMMITTEE

Stephen Prewitt

Edward J. Muehlbrad

Agnes Dreibrodt

Elizabeth Byron

Mary Beam

Sherry Rakowitz

Tammy Jones

Todd Marquardt

President's Message

It's an exciting time of year!

It’s the most exciting time of the year for Hermann Sons Life! There are lots of upcoming activities that I know our members will want to participate in and support Listed to the right are just some of the ways to get involved at Hermann Sons Life .

Preparations are under way for all of these events and so many of our fellow HSL members and staff have been hard at work to make these events outstanding

Manager Brenda Gunnink and our Retirement Home staff are busy preparing for the Chili and Bean Cook-off . Proceeds from the cook-off are used to award scholarships to junior members graduating high school and enrolling in college

Camp registration will be in full swing in March, and your amazing Executive Camp Director Ian Brassett, along with his hard-working staff including Clay, Heath and Melissa, are getting the Camp ready for our campers

Dance recitals are just around the corner and our dancers, dance teachers and parent volunteers have been hard at work to get their routines ready

Upcoming Events

March 11 Chili and Bean Cook-off at the Retirement Home

March Camp registration opens

April 22 Camp Volunteer Work Day

April 8 Gaffney scholarship golf tourney Spring Dance recitals

Pat Bushman

Steven Schellenberg

Harry Schriber

Ronald Wiatrek

Annette Roecker

Arthur R. Pfefferkorn

Barbara Anderle

MEMBER BENEFITS COMMITTEE

Eulla Krueger

Shirley Faske

Cheryl Garcia

Bradley Klein

Angela Netherton

Robin Maertz

Joyce Kneupper

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT COMMITTEE

Judith Schulmeier

Gilbert Shelby

Marsha Kocurek

Pat Klotz

Tommy Daum

Robert Prewitt

Sherrie Stoddard

BUSINESS OPERATIONS COMMITTEE

Kerry Ginn

Anna Larie Keith

Charles Knibbe

Pat Spradling

Gary Falkenberg

David Lewis

Lori Todd

Take a closer look at the list of activities and you will recognize that each one of them is an

Robin Czarnek President/CEO

example of what Hermann Sons Life is all about . Each one of them impacts our members and their communities in many important ways

I already mentioned the scholarships that the chili cook-off makes possible Our regular Camp and Grief Support sessions and dance program also impact our youth in many positive ways . Then there are our two major days of community service – Join Hands Day and Make a Difference Day The impact of the projects done in the name of HSL is almost too great to measure I could go on and on, but I think you get the idea Hermann Sons Life was founded by people who wanted to support one

May 6 Join Hands Day

June 10 Camp Open House

June 12 Summer Camp sessions begin

June 24 Family Fun Day

July 25-28 Grief Support Session

July 29-30 State bowling tournament

Aug. 5 Member appreciation picnic

anotherand the world around them That purpose remains our focus Yes, we like to have a good time . We like to cook chili, bowl a few games and enjoy some food and fellowship . But we never forget the true purpose of all that fun – making life better and more secure for the people that matter most to us

It’s absolutely thrilling to see so many HSL members

involved We are getting better every day! As you hear about these events, please spread the word to your family and friends You are the voices of HSL and the best ambassadors for our organization . Thank you for all you do each and every day to help strengthen HSL and your community!

I wish you and your family an Easter full of peace and blessings

Oldest member passes at 108 years old

Alice Kathleen Naughton née King, Hermann Sons Life’s oldest member, has passed away at the age of 108. She was born on July 9, 1914, and died Jan. 25, 2023.

Alice was an active member of Louise Schuetze Lodge for more than 66 years and held several officer positions. She attended monthly lodge meetings until 2020.

She was preceded in death by her parents, George Bernard King/Koenig and Alice Elizabeth McCann, husband John Joseph Naughton, daughter Joan, daughter-in-law Patricia Lamm Naughton, son-in-law Jerry Louis Lecce and her first grandson, John Joseph Naughton III.

Alice grew up in San Antonio, attended St. Cecilia’s Catholic grade school and graduated from Brackenridge High School, class of 1932. She moved to Denver, Co. in 1933 and gradu-

ated from St. Anthony’s Hospital School of Nursing on May 12, 1936. Alice married her husband John on Jan. 18, 1936.

Alice was active in her community and also participated in numerous organizations in her church and the schools her children attended.

Alice is survived by daughters Elizabeth Jean Naughton, Mary

Gulf donates $25,000

Gulf Lodge has donated $25,000 to Hermann Sons Life Camp. Pictured is President and CEO Robin Czarnek accepting the check from President Charles Head during the January meeting. The funds were used to help with the cost of bathroom renovations at Camp. “We are just so grateful for this wonderful donation,” Robin said. “Donations such as these are used to create the best and most enjoyable environment for our campers.”

Employee Spotlight

Louise Naughton, Kathleen Ann Lecce, Judith Cecilia Costas (Elliott), Susan Alice Andrade, nephews Joe Buesing (Priscilla), John Fournelle (Judy), Joe Fournelle (Joy) and grandchildren, Michael Naughton (Stacey), Joan Dixon (Craig), Christopher Naughton (Lori), Jason Lecce (Kristen), Kevin Lecce (Erin), Benjamin Turner (Lela), Jeffrey Turner, Kelly Andrade, Alfred Andrade III, great-grandchildren, Ryan, Cameron, Afton, Ian, Eric, Adam, Jake, Luke, Jackson and Maya.

A funeral mass was held Friday, Feb. 3, 2023, at St. Matthew’s Catholic Church. Interment followed at Mission Lockehill Cemetery in San Antonio. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul at St. Matthew’s Catholic Church or to a favorite charity.

Avalos was past camper

Leonni Avalos has been employed as a Member Benefits Representative at the Hermann Sons Life Home Office since November 2022.

Leonni works closely with lodges tracking monthly lodge reports, forms and other lodge business. She also assists with special Home Office events and meetings.

She is a 2021 graduate of Texas A&M University with a degree in Wildlife and Conservation.

Leonni has been a Hermann Sons Life member since 2009 and is a member of Anton Wenzel Lodge. She attended Camp and was a Camp counselor.

“I enjoy learning all about the Member Benefits Department and all that we do to assist/include every member,”

Events

EVERY THURSDAY – It’s Game Night every Thursday night at Hochheim-Prairie Lodge-Turner Hall in Yoakum. Games start at 7 p.m. Everyone is welcome. For more information, call 361-293-557.

EVERY THURSDAY – Bingo is held every Thursday night at Brenham Lodge. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., cards go on sale at 6:15 p.m. Games start at 7 p.m. and are usually over at 9:30 p.m. Open to public.

EVERY FRIDAY – Free live trivia at the San Antonio Home Association Rathskeller at 7 p.m. Get a team together or come solo. Prizes awarded.

MARCH

10-11 - The Retirement Home Chili Cook-off will be held. See Pg. 9 for details.

11 - Glen Collins and The Alibis will be playing at Da Costa Hall, doors open at 7 p.m.

APRIL

1 - Da Costa Lodge will hold the Annual Easter Spring Fling. The free event is open to the public and will include an Easter egg hunt, games, food and a cake walk. Doors open at 4 p.m. at Da Costa Hall. A public dance will follow at 8 p.m. featuring Chris Zuber Band.

23 - The annual Volunteer Work Day will be held at Camp begining at 9 a.m. All are welcome to help get the Camp sites ready. Lunch and dinner will be provided. Contact ianb@hermannsonslife.org.

If you would like to see your lodge’s event listed here and in the Events section of the Hermann Sons Life website, call Elaine Hernandez Soto, 210-226-9261, ext. 279 or 1-800-234-4124, ext. 279 or email to elaines@hermannsonslife.org.

Leonni said. “I also enjoy getting to know my coworkers as they have been so welcoming since I started my position.”

When not working, Leonni enjoys her tabby cat, Kiddy, working out, going to concerts and exploring San Antonio restaurants and coffee shops.

Editor/Communications Director

Elaine Hernandez Soto

210-226-9261, ext. 279

email: elaines@hermannsonslife.org

Assistant Editor/Assistant Communications Director

Hannah Ruiz-Gruver

210-226-9261, ext. 102

email: hannahrg@hermannsonslife.org

Fax: 1-888-443-3377 or 210-892-0252

Website: www.hermannsonslife.org

All news articles and photographs should be mailed to: Editor, Hermann Sons Life, P.O. Box 1941, San Antonio, TX 78297-1941 or emailed to: elaines@hermannsonslife.org

Deadline for each monthly issue is the 10th of the month of publication.

The Hermann Sons Life newspaper is an official publication of Hermann Sons Life. The management and editorial policy of the newspaper shall be in the hands of the President and CEO, and the President and CEO shall have the authority to appoint a member or members of Hermann Sons Life as editor and/or business manager thereof.

Leonni Avalos

Alice Kathleen Naughton

Lodges asked to help grow membership

By TERESA SAATHOFF Vice President of Sales

By now lodge presidents should have received a packet from the Home Office Sales Department that includes the lodge’s individualized 2023 lodge goal poster, some recommender post cards, an annuity flyer and a Medicare flyer. Please be sure to share with your members. Also included was a letter from me. I’d like to share that now.

First, thank you for attending your lodge meetings and thank you to every one of you who serves as an officer of your lodge. Since taking my new position as the Vice President of Sales this past July, I have had the privilege of visiting several

lodges for pin presentations and Christmas parties, and I am looking forward to attending more lodge meetings in 2023.

I really appreciate everyone who volunteers their time as an officer of their lodge and works to make meetings inviting and memorable for our members.

To keep Hermann Sons Life strong and viable for the future, we must continue to grow our membership.

I am so proud of the 27 lodges that met or exceeded their 2022 lodge membership goals. All 27 lodges will be receiving checks for meeting their goals. A list of lodges achieving their goals is on Pg. 5.

The 2023 lodge membership campaign theme is “Shower

Your Lodge with Membership.”

I want you to know that myself, the Hermann Sons Life Sales Department staff and agents want to help every lodge meet their goals, but lodge members need to talk about our products and help us find new members. If an agent is not present at your lodge meeting to give their report, please remind everyone we offer a full array of insurance products including Whole Life and Term Insurance along with Annuities.

I am very excited to announce that as of Jan. 1, 2023, new annuities are earning 4 percent and in 2022 we began offering Medicare. We want to continue to take care of our existing

Hobbs receives recommender gift card

The Sales Department is recognizing 20 more recommenders for the month of January.

This brings the total to 20 members recommending and a total of 29 new members to Hermann Sons Life in 2023.

The winner of a $50 gift card for January is Amanda Hobbs of Columbia Lodge.

Congratulations to the following January recommenders.

Recommender Agent

Patricia Abell, Giddings

Kendra Clayton, New Braunfels (3)

Haylie Doty, Marion (2)

Marcel Fournier, Seguin (2)

Amanda Hobbs, Columbia

Megan Jacobson, La Vernia (2)

Melinda Kelsay, New Braunfels

Walter Koopmann, Gruenau

Elmer Krueger Jr., Cuero Family

Sheila Merrell, Jourdanton

Madyson Moy, La Vernia

Jonathan Nisbett, Columbia

Brady Sanderfer, Kypfer-Salge (2)

Michael Stolte Sr., New Braunfels

Alexis Thompson, Pershing

Olivia Weiser, Giddings (2)

Pamela Zinsmeister, Boerne (2)

Kevin Zoch, Round Top

Linda Mattocks

Becki Carley

Lorene Bielke

Annette Roecker

Gilbert Shelby

Angela Netherton

David Applewhite

Brad Klein

Wayne Tiffin

Gladys Rowley

Gladys Rowley

Gilbert Shelby

Britney Cross

Shirley Huebinger

Gladys Rowley

Linda Mattocks

Chris Naughton

Linda Mattocks

members and hope you will think of Hermann Sons Life when you need additional life insurance, when you want to start saving for retirement with an annuity or when it is time to sign up for Medicare benefits.

On your personalized member goal poster, please write in the number of new members in each month of 2023. Membership will be counted when a new member joins your lodge by purchasing life insurance, an annuity or signs up for Medicare with a Hermann Sons Life agent.

In 2023, lodges will earn $50 for meeting their lodge goal and an additional $25 if the lodge exceeds their lodge goal. The lodge that exceeds

their goal by at least two members and has the largest positive gain in membership will earn an additional $300.

Please keep the referrals coming our way! We appreciate all member recommendations and will continue to have a monthly recommender giftcard drawing.

You can recommend prospects through our website, hermannsonslife.org, by email, sales@hermannsonslife.org, by phone at 210-527-9113 or by reaching out to your local agent.

Thank you for being a Hermann Sons Life member. I believe if we all work together, we can Shower Your Lodge with Membership!

100% Family

Hermann Sons Life congratulates the Merrell family. Shelia, Esmeralda and Michael are a 100 Percent Hermann Sons Life Family. The family resides in Poteet and are members of Jourdanton Lodge.

Muehlstein Memorial Award nomination deadline March 15

Nominations are being accepted for the Leroy Muehlstein Memorial Award for the Agent Fraternalist of the Year.

President/CEO Robin Czarnek established the new award for agents in August 2022.

Nominations will be accepted through March 15, 2023. A fillable nomination form is available online at hermannsonslife.orgContact Us - Sales Agents. Email to Vice President of Sales Teresa Saathoff at teresas@hermannsonslife.org

Nominations can also be mailed to Teresa’s attention at P.O. Box 1941, San Antonio, Texas 78297.

“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 in numerous capacities throughout his life from president of his lodge to being elected Grand President. He served from 1989 to 2009, longer than any other Grand President.

For more information, call the Sales Department at 877-437-6266 or 210-527-9113 or visit hermannsonslife.org, click Contact Us, Employment

Hermann Sons Life is looking for highly-motivated, service-oriented people to sell its whole life, term life and annuity products.

Top producing agents in 2022 announced

SAN ANTONIO – The Sales Department has announced the top-producing agents based on sales performances in 2022.

The top club is the President’s Club. Two agents, Linda Mattocks and Brenda Heulitt, qualified by submitting at least 12 applications and generating at least $30,000 in premium income.

Linda was the top producing agent. She lives in Carmine and is a member of Round Top

Lodge. She has been an agent since 2006 and has earned several production awards through the years including top producer in 2021.

Brenda is a resident of New Braunfels and joined the sales team in 2021.

A total of eight agents qualified for the Executive Club by submitting at least 12 applications and generating at least $12,000 in premium income.

They are Celeste Salge, John

Pacini, Mary K. Seifert, Wayne Tiffin, Gary Falkenberg, Chris Naughton, Shirley Huebinger and Roxy Pruski.

Celeste, a resident of New Braunfels, is a member of Kypfer-Salge Lodge. John lives in Floresville and is a member of Poth Lodge. Mary resides in Weimar and is a member of Schulenburg Lodge. Wayne lives in Cuero and is a member of Cuero Family Lodge. Gary lives in Hockley and is a member of Br-

Lodges meet new member goals

SAN ANTONIO – A total of 27 lodges are being recognized for meeting their new member goal as part of the “Get Involved! Make a Difference!” Membership Growth Campaign in 2022.

Lodges were each assigned a new member goal at the beginning of the year.

The lodges that met their goal received a $75 bonus and those that met their goal and had an overall membership gain earned an additional $25.

La Vernia Lodge was the top lodge earning the $100 bonus plus a $500 bonus for having the most positive gain.

Lodges that met their goal

and had a positive gain earning the $100 bonus were Harmonia, Louise Schuetze, Siemering, Fredericksburg, Marion, Helotes, MissionAlamo, Kypfer-Salge, Austin, D’Hanis, Twin Sisters, Hondo Victory, Goliad, Old Glory, Paul Vogt, Biry and Stockdale.

The lodges that met their goal earning a $75 bonus are Brenham, Vineta, Burton, Beaumont, Columbia, Cuero Family, Stern, Poth and Orange Grove.

“I am so proud of these lodges and the agents who helped them meet their goals in 2022,” Vice President of Sales Teresa Saathoff said. “I am excited to see what we ac-

complish in 2023 by continuing to work together to grow the Hermann Sons Life family. It is also important to not only increase membership but to encourage member involvement in our lodges. As always, our agents and the Home Office Sales team are ready to assist lodges in all their growth efforts.”

The 2023 campaign theme is “Shower Your Lodge with Membership.”

Packets with campaign lodge goals and other information were mailed to each lodge in February.

In addition to the bonus, each lodge will receive a certificate of achievement.

enham Lodge. Chris Naughton is a San Antonio resident and is a member of Siemering Lodge. Shirley Huebinger lives in New Braunfels and is a member of New Braunfels Lodge. Roxy lives in Adkins and is a member of Mission-Alamo Lodge.

Becki Lucas Carley qualified for the Million Dollar Club by selling at least 12 policies worth a combined total of more than $1 million in face value.

Sandra Jones earned the

year-end award for Most New Adults.

An awards banquet honoring the 2022 top producers will be held in May 2023.

“I congratulate these agents for their success and appreciate their dedication to Hermann Sons Life and its continued growth,” Vice President of Sales Teresa Saathoff said. “It will be an honor to recognize them during the annual Agents Award Weekend in May.”

Linda Mattocks

Brenda Heulitt Celeste Salge

John Pacini Mary K. Seifert Wayne Tiffin

Gary Falkenberg Chris Naughton Shirley Huebinger Roxy Pruski Becki Lucas Carley Sandra Jones

Agents Directory (alphabetized by area)

Alice

Eddie Ramon • 361-701-0480

Paula Gebert • 361-701-7527

Atascosa

Eulla Krueger • 210-863-0546

Austin

Shannon Caldwell • 830-837-4535

Shirley Kuhen Faske • 512-789-3975

Brad Klein, FIC • 512-497-0678

Bernardo/Columbus

Terrel Maertz • -979-732-1727

Boerne/San Antonio

Pamela Poulk • 210-753-2626

Brenham

Gary Falkenberg, FICF • 713-466-6069

Bulverde

Debbie Allen • 210-326-9753

Clif Klabunde, FIC • 210-219-6142

Caldwell

Donnie Blinka • 979-596-1309

Castroville

Glenford Boehme, FIC • 210-219-9792

Michael Franke • 830-444-4877 or 361-290-3577

Jacqulynn Herrmann • 210-275-0429

Reagan Haby Rogiers • 210-695-5588

Laurie Steele • 210-414-4755

Cibolo/Schertz

Tracy Campos • 210-388-2779

Judith Schulmeier, FIC • 210-667-1938

Clifton

Sterling Goolsby • 254-709-5764

Comfort

Dennis Wigginton • 832-278-9636

Converse

Dan Boenig • 210-705-1815

Corpus Christi

Paula Gebert • 361-701-7527

Coupland

Brad Klein, FIC • 512-497-0678

Crockett

Pat Fritz, FIC • 832-454-4483

Cuero

Wayne Tiffin • 361-564-8144

Dallas

Mark Mundy • 214-202-8442

Gilbert Shelby • 214-289-1815

Devine

Laurie Steele • 210-414-4755

Cynthia Sultenfuss • 210-219-6409

Robin Sultenfuss • 210-854-4443

Dustie Valdez • 210-620-6466

El Campo

Dennis Wigginton • 832-278-9636

Floresville/Poth

Beth Cutsinger • 210-325-6667

Floresville

Gladys Rowley • 210-219-6964

Lynn Wiede • 210-289-1378

Fort Worth

Sandra Jones, FIC • 817-781-7155

Fredericksburg

Todd Bierschwale • 830-997-2130

Georgetown

Brad Klein, FIC • 512-497-0678

Giddings

Linda Mattocks • 512-736-9988

Gonzales

Bobbie Polasek • 830-672-6317

Helotes

Reagan Haby Rogiers • 210-695-5588

Rayna Sue Irwin • 210-710-7038

Hondo

Jacqulynn Herrmann • 210-275-0429

Laurie Steele • 210-414-4755

Margie Zinsmeyer • 830-426-0960

Houston

Gary Falkenberg, FICF • 713-466-6069

Jennifer Stryk Garner • 832-596-942

Terrel Maertz • 979-732-1727

Joseph Pugh • 281-844-8931

Gerald Ziemnicki • 713-622-9001

Jourdanton

Laurie Steele • 210-414-4755

Valerie M. Vick • 210-748-5598

Katy

Terrel Maertz • 979-732-1727

Robert Muniz • 281-986-0357

Kilgore

Alexander Ramsey • 903-522-2285

Kirby

Angela Netherton • 210-831-1293

La Grange

Linda Mattocks • 512-736-9988

La Vernia

Vicki Hinojosa • 210-338-5002

Marlin Tanneberger, FIC • 210-827-7229

Pauline Young • 210-338-5118

League City

Joseph Pugh • 281-844-8931

Lockhart

Janice Kuhen • 512-393-1431

Lubbock

Garrett Czarnek • 210-315-8152

Marion

Lorene Bielke, FIC • 830-420-2380 830-305-6900 (cell)

Moulton

Judith Schulmeier, FIC • 210-667-1938

Needville /Rosenberg

Chris Stoeltje • 979-559-6127

New Braunfels

Becki Lucas Carley • 361-550-9358

Britney Cross • 281-450-6291

Brenda Heulitt • 830-832-1674

Shirley Huebinger • 830-629-1196

Clif Klabunde, FIC • 210-219-6142

Celeste Salge • 830-620-8515

Krystal Wilson • 623-698-8348

Nixon-Smiley

Diana P. Moreno • 830-379-2244 (office)

830-534-4989 (cell)

Orange Grove

Paula Gebert • 361-701-7527

Port Lavaca

Nancy Annette Walraven • 361-237-1757

Refugio

Misty Skrobarcek • 210-215-3453

Round Top/Rutersville

Linda Mattocks • 512-736-998

San Antonio

Debbie Allen • 210-326-9753

David P. Applewhite • 210-547-6963

Ruth Bailey • 210-707-3652

Rayna Sue Irwin • 210-710-7038

Clif Klabunde, FIC • 210-219-6142

Sales Department

210-527-9113 • 877-437-6266

888-839-7667

Vice President of Sales

Teresa Saathoff

210-422-6996 teresas@hermannsonslife.org

Compliance Director Ana Vasquez, FLMI, AIRC, FIC anav@hermannsonslife.org

Kathryn Mutchler Administrative Assistant kathrynm@hermannsonslife.org

Regional Sales Manager

John Pacini 210-844-7182 johnp@hermannsonslife.org

Regional Sales Manager Curtis Dishman 281-414-8395 curtisd@hermannsonslife.org

San Antonio

Chris Naughton • 210-365-2009

Gladys Rowley • 210-219-6964

Sylvia Zapata • 210-426-4481

San Marcos

Shirley Kuhen Faske • 512-789-3975

Janice Kuhen • 512-393-1431

Schulenburg/Weimar

Mary K. Seifert • 979-743-0312

Seguin

Annette D. Roecker • 830-832-0724

Spring Branch

Debbie Allen • 210-326-9753

John E. Moore Jr. • 210-621-7842

Stockdale

Ronald Wiatrek • 210-771-4354

Victoria

Jason Hybner • 361-652-6924

Misty Skrobarcek • 210-215-3453

Waxahachie

Mark Mundy • 214-202-8442

Wimberley

Shannon Caldwell • 830-837-4535

Yorktown Judy Wolf • 361-564-2452

SYLVIA H. TRUITT

Austin Lodge

Died May 1, 2020 • Age 95

DARRELL L. FRANKE

Goliad Lodge

Died Jan. 16, 2021 • Age 82

ARVID J. BENNER

El Campo Lodge

Died April 16, 2021 • Age 99

HENRY E. BEYER

New Bielau Lodge

Died July 30, 2021 • Age 89

MARGARET SHULTS

Richland Lodge

Died March 3, 2022 • Age 88

STANLEY J. BRONDER JR.

Harmonia Lodge

Died April 4, 2022 • Age 82

WINSTON H. LEACH

Lampasas Lodge

Died April 16, 2022 • Age 68

SANDRA E. HALDEMAN

Kirby Lodge

Died May 20, 2022 • Age 72

RALEIGH R. LANGHOFF

Hochheim-Prairie Lodge

Died May 30, 2022 • Age 78

FAYRENE T. BALIN

Pershing Lodge

Died May 31, 2022 • Age 101

ELOIS R.N. GLOVER

Gay Hill Lodge

Died July 5, 2022 • Age 97

GARY W. KLAUS

Knippa Lodge

Died July 14, 2022 • Age 64

ALIENE M. FINKE

Round Top Lodge

Died Aug 20, 2022 • Age 86

SAMUEL L. JAMES

Siemering Lodge

Died Aug. 25, 2022 • Age 61

LOUIS E. LUTZ

D'Hanis Lodge

Died Aug. 31, 2022 • Age 82

CINDY L. EGG

Cuero Family Lodge

Died Sept. 12, 2022 • Age 61

MARIAN WERNETTE

Hondo Victory Lodge

Died Sept. 22, 2022 • Age 85

In Memoriam of Our Deceased Members

MILTON J. SHOEMAKER III

Anton Wenzel Lodge

Died Sept. 24, 2022 • Age 83

HAROLD C. ZUHLKE

Corpus Christi Lodge

Died Oct. 1, 2022 • Age 90

MILDRED L. WARNKEN

La Grange Lodge

Died Oct. 4, 2022 • Age 100

EMMA J. KRONKOSKY

Austin Lodge

Died Oct. 5, 2022 • Age 88

WALLACE A. HOBRATSCHK

Plum Lodge

Died Oct. 7, 2022 • Age 84

ROY T. SMITH

Goliad Lodge

Died Oct. 7, 2022 • Age 80

CHRISTINE M. ARNETT

Vineta Lodge

Died Oct. 14, 2022 • Age 101

DARRYL W. SCHAUMBURG

Siemering Lodge

Died Oct. 19, 2022 • Age 77

MELVIN R. PANKAU

Jourdanton Lodge

Died Oct. 25, 2022 • Age 86

RICHARD A. HARBORTH

Laubach Lodge

Died Nov. 5, 2022 • Age 78

PATRICIA L. NILES Deanville Lodge

Died Nov. 6, 2022 • Age 81

DAVID E. MOORE

Pershing Lodge

Died Nov. 11, 2022 • Age 88

MARY C. BEHRENDT

Seguin Lodge

Died Nov. 13, 2022 • Age 80

EVELYN A. KOCIAN

Gonzales Lodge

Died Nov. 15, 2022 • Age 94

BETTY A. MUSCH

Poth Lodge

Died Nov. 15, 2022 • Age 88

THOMAS J. PALMER

Houston Lodge

Died Nov. 20, 2022 • Age 93

SHERRI S. RAIRIGH

Moulton Lodge

Died Nov. 21, 2022 • Age 57

DEBRA L. FISHBECK

Da Costa Lodge

Died Nov. 24, 2022 • Age 68

ELAINE HENZE

Yorktown Lodge

Died Nov. 27, 2022 • Age 79

MATHIAS M. KOCH JR.

D'Hanis Lodge

Died Nov. 27, 2022 • Age 91

LEON L. HEINTSCHEL JR.

Rutersville Lodge

Died Nov. 28, 2022 • Age 79

LARRY J. PREISS

Anton Wenzel Lodge

Died Nov. 29, 2022 • Age 75

LONNIE G. GARBADE JR.

Flatonia Lodge

Died Nov. 30, 2022 • Age 86

CAITLIN M. JAWOROSKI

Biry Lodge

Died Nov. 30, 2022 • Age 31

TRACY S. BRATZ

Prinz Solms Lodge

Died Dec. 1, 2022 • Age 60

KENNETH W. SMITH JR.

Siemering Lodge

Died Dec. 2, 2022 • Age 52

WALTER E. OCHS

Harmonia Lodge

Died Dec. 3, 2022 • Age 96

VERNA M. DEAN

Kypfer-Salge Lodge

Died Dec. 4, 2022 • Age 96

CHESTER L. PECHACEK

Cat Spring Lodge

Died Dec. 4, 2022 • Age 87

WILFRED BLOME

Brenham Lodge

Died Dec. 5, 2022 • Age 94

DONNA G. COLDEWEY

Hochheim-Prairie Lodge

Died Dec. 5, 2022 • Age 75

CLIFFORD A. RUST

San Marcos Lodge

Died Dec. 6, 2022 • Age 87

LUCILLE E. HAGER

Vineta Lodge

Died Dec. 6, 2022 • Age 86

JOSEPH R. GEFFERT

Yorktown Lodge

Died Dec. 8, 2022 • Age 71

SOPHIA E. BERNHARDT

Womack Lodge

Died Dec. 9, 2022 • Age 98

JOHN P. BURG

Fredericksburg Lodge

Died Dec. 10, 2022 • Age 87

ROSE M. RATH

Cuero Family Lodge

Died Dec. 10, 2022 • Age 77

MAX H. SMITH

Pershing Lodge

Died Dec. 10, 2022 • Age 100

KEITH O. BROWN

Kirby Lodge

Died Dec. 12, 2022 • Age 74

RICHARD R. ROARK

Comfort Lodge

Died Dec. 13, 2022 • Age 59

GEORGE J. HECKER

Castroville Lodge

Died Dec. 14, 2022 • Age 99

CHARLES M. LUKER

Anton Wenzel Lodge

Died Dec. 15, 2022 • Age 74

ROBERT P. KLINGSPRON

Shelby Lodge

Died Dec. 19, 2022 • Age 90

LINDA D. MILLER

Fort Worth Lodge

Died Dec. 22, 2022 • Age 76

JUNE J. HART

Bellville Lodge

Died Dec. 24, 2022 • Age 83

VIONA E. STOLLE

Karnes City Lodge

Died Dec. 25, 2022 • Age 95

NANCY G. MOORE

Vineta Lodge

Died Dec. 26, 2022 • Age 65

JOHN P. APPLING

El Campo Lodge

Died Jan. 1, 2023 • Age 85

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

Donations

Donations to the Home Fund in Memory of:

ANNETTE M. WALTER

Donor: Pershing Lodge

JOSEPHINE K. FREY

Donor: Brenham Lodge

JEANETTE M. KEILERS

Donor: Rutersville Lodge

ELAINE SCHNITZ

Donor: La Vernia Lodge

KENNETH W. BETTIN

THEODORE E. DROEMER

HERBERT P. ROEBER

Donor: Giddings Lodge

Donations to the Camp Fund in Memory of:

CAROLYN M. LOESCH

Donor: Brenham Lodge

EUGENE W. NESVADBA

Donor: Rosenberg-Richmond Lodge

Donations to the Home Scholarship Fund in Memory of:

ROBERT (BOB) JUNGMAN

Donors: Jack and Dianne Larned

Camp countdown on for summer 2023! Camp News

By IAN BRASSETT Executive Camp Director

The Pointer Sisters had a song called “I’m so excited.” That describes the start of spring for me! Camp has started to greenup and we’re well into the process of preparing for Camp.

Staffing is going GREAT (apart from medical staff which is a little slow now). We have all kitchen and maintenance staff hired. Our Riverside and Hilltop Camp staffing is looking fantastic with many returning staff and that’s awesome! If you know a nurse, EMT or paramedic, please let them know about our program.

We have an exciting new staff development schedule that includes leadership trainings from an outside camp professional set for April.

To help parents, both returning and new, prepare for camp I’ll be conducting Zoom sessions. I’m looking forward to speaking with you about Camp and answering all of your questions. To make sure you have the correct link, please shoot me an email at ianb@hermannsonslife.org. The information will also be posted on the Hermann Sons Life social media pages. The dates are: March 18 at 11 a.m. (moved from March 11); March 19 at 11 a.m.; April 16 at 2 p.m.

We have some great videos on the Hermann Sons Life Official YouTube channel. Videos include tours of the facility, videos detailing many of the cool aspects of camp life, videos that will help our new campers learn some of the line dances we do at Camp along with some of the repeat-after-me songs we perform at the flagpole, punch and snack time. Check them out.

In February, I visited Edelweiss-Magnolia and Round Top lodges to talk about Camp and our plans for an incredible summer. I am available in March and April if you’d like me to attend your lodge meetings.

Heath Roemer and Clay Haley have been very busy this win-

ter helping to get the facility in tip-top condition for our junior members. They have been installing new ceiling fans in many of the boys’ dorms (no more rafter ball!), repairing the GaGa pits, providing a new look in the female staff rooms and providing a shade structure at the softball field for the Riverside campers. The new shed/shade replaces the shed which blew over in a storm that hit us in the fall. It looks great! The only issue we have is “Hermann” is not there anymore (hint, hint).

I cannot talk about facilities without discussing the major renovations we have made to both camps this winter/spring. At the Riverside site, the Jack Rabbit, Mosquito and Catfish dorm bathrooms are being completely renovated and arestarting to look amazing. At the Hilltop site, the roof to the kitchen at the dining hall and HHAAC building have been replaced.

The campers will also notice a big difference at the Hilltop swimming pool. A brand new, shaded area behind the diving board has gone up and looks incredible. Thank you Ryan Bohnert! All these improvements are thanks to a generous donation from Edleweiss-Magnolia Lodge.

Plans are also under way to renovate the Rattlesnake bathrooms and the boy’s bathroom in the breezeway, thanks to a generous donation from Gulf Lodge.

It’s through the generosity of lodges that we can improve the facility and equipment for our junior members. Thank you for all your donations. Every penny helps!

Another fantastic way to help is to volunteer. The annual Volunteer Workday is scheduled for April 23. This is a great opportunity to help the Camp prepare for the summer. We have plenty of work for everyone. Skilled and non-skilled

labor would be greatly appreciated. It is also an opportunity for junior members to earn some community service hours. We’ll start at 9 a.m. and finish at 5 p.m. Both lunch and dinner will be provided. Please let me know if you or members from your lodge are planning a lovely trip to the Hill Country!

All this talk about Camp has really got me excited. Open House is scheduled for June 10 from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Those attending will have the opportunity to tour the camps, try out some of the activities such as archery, challenge course, Ga-Ga, basketball, crafts and the pool, bring your bathing

suit! Its also a great opportunity for parents to talk to counselors and directors.

Camp enrollment opens in March. Last summer we had fantastic early enrollment and sessions did fill up fast with a waiting list for regular Camp sessions and Mini-Camp. Because of the high demand for Mini-Camp we will be doing two sessions in 2023. One in July and one in August. The July session has a capacity of 60 campers. The one in August has a capacity of 100 campers. A reminder that Camp is open to eligible junior members 9-14 years of age.

The Mini-Camp sessions are

open to first-time campers 8 to 9 years of age.

Our CIT-1 program is available for junior members aged 15. Please note that enrollment began in February and spaces are filling up. The process for becoming a CIT is available online.

Our CIT-2 program is available by invitation only for successful CIT-1 campers from 2022.

A second week of Camp is available to eligible junior members. Information will be available after May 15. Camp registration details and instructions will be emailed to all returning campers and will be mailed to all eligible juniors in March. Be on the lookout!

Community Spotlight

Abilene Cultural Affairs Council supports the arts

Editor’s Note: Each month the newspaper will highlight a community service organization. To recommend an organization, email elaines@hermannsonslife. org or call 210-226-9261, ext. 279.

ABILENE – The Abilene Cultural Affairs Council was established in 1977 as a division of the Chamber of Commerce to support and foster the growth of the arts and humanities in the Abilene area. One of the Council’s primary functions is to distribute public funds to quali-

fying non-profit organizations.

The Cultural Affairs Council has two separate grant programs: Community and Visitor Development grants and Hearts for the Arts grants. Any non-profit, tax-exempt organization as defined by the Internal Revenue Code, or public and tax-supported organization (in-

Family Fun Day set for June 24 at Fiesta Texas

PINTO Cook-offBean

SAN ANTONIO – The annual Hermann Sons Life Family Fun Day will be held at Six Flags Fiesta Texas in 2023! The event has been scheduled for June 24 and all members are invited.

As always, Future Club-Shining Stars that are registered by April 2023 will be admitted free of charge. The registration form is available monthly in the Her-

mann Sons Life newspaper and on our website, hermannsonslife.org – Member Benefits. Discounted tickets will be available to all other members. Tickets include parking, admission and lunch. A picnic area will be reserved. Tickets sales will open in April.

Stay tuned for more details to come!

Golf tourney benefits Camp scholarship fund

COMFORT – The 12th Hermann Sons Youth Camp-Shannon

Leigh Gaffney Scholarship Fund

Golf Tournament will be held Saturday, April 8, at Golf Club of Texas in San Antonio.

Proceeds from the tournament will benefit the scholarship fund named in memory of a former camper and counselor who lost her battle with leukemia in 1998.

Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. The tournament begins with a shotgun start at 8 a.m. Lunch will follow.

Awards will be presented to the top four teams and the golfers with the longest drive, most accurate drive and closest to the pin.

cluding colleges and universities), may apply. For questions, contact Susan Steele, grants administrator, by calling 677-1161 or emailing grants@abilenecac. org

Downtown Abilene is home to the Abilene Cultural District – one of the first five cultural districts in the entire state designated by the Texas Commission on the Arts. Downtown is home to a variety of venues for the performing arts, live music, theater and art exhibitions.

The Abilene Cultural District is home to The Grace Museum,

the National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature, the Center for Contemporary Arts, the Elks Arts Center, Abilene Ballet Theatre, Historic Paramount Theatre, Abilene Philharmonic, the Abilene Convention Center, Cockerell Studios & Gallery, Frontier Texas!, AdamsonSpalding Storybook Garden and a restored, historic train depot that serves as the offices of the Abilene Cultural Affairs Council.

In 2010, Abilene was among the first five Texas cultural districts to receive this designation

from the Texas Commission on the Arts.

The Abilene Cultural Affairs Council has a presence on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, YouTube and Instagram to engage a variety of audiences in cultural events and activities.

The ACAC’s main website at www.abilenecac.org is a resource for the overall arts scene in Abilene. Donations can be made to Abilene Arts on this website.

For more information, contact the Abilene Cultural Affairs Council at 325-677-1161.

HERMANN SONS LIFE RETIREMENT HOME March

Cost is $100 per person for a four-person scramble team. That includes green fees, range balls, lunch, one Mulligan per player and awards. The Bubba Drive will be sold the day of the event at the appropriate hole. Sponsorship opportunities are available. Individuals who sponsor a hole for $100 will receive signage at the hole. Corporations that sponsor a hole for $175 will also receive signage.

The entry and payment deadline is April 4, 2023. For more information, contact Jan Stone at 210-422-1952. Online registration is available at hermannsonslife.org/golf.

‘Pearl Harbor - Our Story’

EDITOR’S NOTE: The following story was written and submitted by member Mary Klumb and tells of her family’s survival of the Pearl Harbor bombing on Dec. 7, 1941.

By MARY KLUMB

Our Dad was in the Army Air Corps and was stationed at Wheeler Army Air Base in Oahu, Hawaii on the day Pearl Harbor was bombed on December 7, 1941. My mother, Helen my sister, Harry my brother and I were also there living in the military family quarters across the street from the Wheeler Army Airfield flight line. Helen and I were born at Ft. Sam Houston in San Antonio, but Harry was born in Honolulu, Hawaii on Jan. 23, 1941, and I always thought it was so unique that his birth certificate said he was born in the Territory of Hawaii, as Hawaii was not a state at that time. When Pearl Harbor was bombed, Harry was 10 1/2 months old, I was 2, and Helen was 5. The day before Pearl Harbor was bombed, Helen was invited to an overnight birthday party, and they were taking all the kids to the zoo. For some reason our dad was very adamant that Helen could not go to the party and would have to stay home. Our dad was very intuitive and even though Helen really wanted to go, he would not give in.  He must have had a sense that something was going to happen. If Helen had gone to the party, she would not have been home when the bombing started.

Historians believe about four minutes before Japan attacked Pearl Harbor, fighter planes swooped in on Wheeler Army Airfield to destroy and disarm America’s air defense. One of the biggest fears about the attack during Japan’s planning stage was what the Americans might do if they were able to utilize their ships and planes. The Japanese feared the Americans would come after them, and the bombing may become a battle in the sky. The goal of the attack was to catch the U.S. military completely off guard and to destroy as many military machines as possible. Though

it was an aircraft base, Wheeler Airfield had many hangers on the premise, which meant that there were plenty of planes to fly. The Japanese didn’t want pilots to have a chance to get to their planes and fight back so they bombed Wheeler Airfield heavily in hopes of deterring anyone from taking off. Wheeler Airfield was one of the hardest hit areas during the first wave of the attack. The Japanese wanted to make a clean job of it, and they made sure to bomb the aircraft hangers as well as the airstrips. The attack started around 8 a.m. Overall, the Japanese dropped 35 bombs on the field. During this bombing of the airfield, one bomb landed in the front yard of the family housing at 540 Wright Avenue which was in direct line with an aircraft hangar and a large barrack. The Japanese were not interested in the base housing as they were only after the planes, ships, docks and airfield and they think the attacker was probably aiming at one of these buildings when he overshot his target and hit the housing area. When the bomb was dropped at this house, Helen and I were in our house on Wright Avenue in our living room which was next to the kitchen which was facing this house. Helen remembers our house shaking a lot, probably from the planes bombing the airfield, and when the bomb hit next door, our house really started shaking a lot more and the ceiling was falling everywhere, nails were hanging

from the ceiling and glass was all over the place from our broken kitchen window next to the house where the bomb hit. Helen went running to our parents, who were in their bedroom, to tell them our house was shaking and falling apart. It was no secret that Japan wanted to start a war with America and the first thing our mom said was “Japan is bombing Pearl Harbor.” Pictured above is our house and the crater the bomb left behind. It is amazing to me that there was not more damage since the bomb fell so close to our house. The fact that the plane was at treetop level probably was why our house was not damaged more.

After the bomb hit next door, our mom grabbed Harry and our dad grabbed Helen and me, carrying Helen under one arm and me under the other, and we exited out the back door. The Japanese planes were flying so low that you could see the faces of the pilots. Our Mom used to tell us that she saw a Japanese plane flying over us with bullets streaming out and the pilot looked at us and was laughing and waving as he went by. At some point our dad had Helen and I laying on the ground as he covered us with his body. He told us not to look up and to play dead. He had his arm around us and Helen, being a 5-year-old and a little inquisitive, looked through his arm and saw at treetop level a Japanese plane and the face of the pilot with his helmet and goggles on fly by us.

During the attack they wanted people to go to the school for safety, so after we left our house, we went to the school. Later that night when the bombing was over, we went back to our house to get some possessions. After we got everything we came for, we left the house and it was dark outside. Our mom said suddenly they heard someone say “Hark, who goes there?  It was a soldier with a gun checking things out. My mom assured him we were there only to get our possessions and were not looters.

Another memory concerns a turkey.  Thanksgiving was less than two weeks before the bombing.  Our family had the tradition that when there was a wishbone on a turkey or chicken it would be taken out whole and two people would pull on it. The one with the largest part would get their wish.

Tradition went out the window on our Thanksgiving before the bombing. For some reason, our dad would not let us break it as he said he wanted to keep it whole, and he nailed it above the kitchen door for good luck. When the bomb fell on the front yard of the house next to our house, our house shook so violently and yet the wishbone did not fall, and it remained above the door.  We are not supersti-

tious but did joke a lot over the years about our dad’s wishbone working its magic that day.

Oahu had a lot of caves and at some point, women and children were sent to the caves for protection. My mom, Harry, Helen and I were in one of those caves. The women and children were huddled together and some of the children were crying or whimpering, probably me included, and the women were trying to keep them calm and quiet when they heard guns cock and someone shout out “Halt, who goes there?” Of course, the women did not answer because they did not know if it was our soldiers or the enemy. You can only imagine the relief of the soldiers and the women when they saw that it was not the enemy but American soldiers to the women and American dependents to the soldiers.

Before the bombing of Pearl Harbor, the Japanese put a spy on the Island to send back information on the schedules of the ships and planes, etc.

See PEARL, Pg. 11

Pearl Harbor survivor Mary Klumb shared this photo that shows a crater left by a bomb that fell next door to their home.

Pictured are photos of a crying Mary, above, and her sister Helen, left, taken when they landed in San Francisco. The photos appeared in the San Francisco Chronicle. Helen’s picture was taken with another boy, also a refugee from Pearl Harbor and a nurse caring for them.

Pearl Harbor attack survivor shares story

Cont’d from Pg. 10

My mom said there was a Japanese man that always had a camera around his neck and was acting as a tourist on the Island. She saw everywhere she went. He was all over the base, at the docks, airfield, even the commissary, etc. and he was always taking pictures of things a normal tourist would not take pictures of or writing things down. My mom was always telling my dad and others that something wasn’t right, and he was more than just a tourist and she thought he was a spy. My mom was very intuitive and had very good instincts which were usually always right.

Because of what history tells us about this spy, I think the Japanese man my mom saw and became suspicious of was the spy Japan put on the island to send all the information back to them before they did their surprise attack on Pearl Harbor. I have often wondered if someone had listened to my mom, just maybe, the history of Pearl Harbor might have been different.We were put on the first ship back to the States. Our destination was San

Francisco Bay.

Mom, Harry and I got seasick, but Helen didn’t, which figures because she never got carsick and could ride all the rides at the amusement park. Harry became so dehydrated on the ship

in

and fired

,shot at our ship, but, miraculously, the torpedo turned at the last minute and missed our ship. We also were told that the submarine that fired at us was sunk.

Pearl Harbor attack

- Mary Klumb

that he almost died. I contracted ringworm on the ship and after we landed had to have all my blond hair shaved off and when it came back it was brown. That was nothing compared to the fact that a Japanese submarine had sneaked in offshore and fired a

Klumbs long-time members

By MARY KLUMB

Gerhart “Gerry” Klumb, my husband, had parents who immigrated from Germany and discovered Hermann Sons, and they became long-time members. Gerry was one of the first Hermann Sons’ campers. He liked it so well that he asked if he could stay another week and was allowed to, probably the only camper to do that at the time. Gerry’s mother was a member of Brunhilde Lodge, and his dad was a member of Harmonia Lodge, which was also Gerry’s lodge. After we got married, my in-laws brought a policy for me, and I also joined Brunhilde Lodge. When we moved to Jourdanton, both Gerry and I transferred to the Jourdanton Lodge. Our five kids are also members of Jourdanton Lodge as well as four of our grandkids. Jourdanton Lodge really grew and became one big happy family.

We were very active in the lodge when we were younger. Gerry was president a few times and I was secretary for 10 years.  Hermann Sons was a big part of our lives when our kids were growing up. All the kids went to Camp, and the girls and granddaughters took dancing classes. In fact, one granddaughter graduated from A&M with a degree in dance and will graduate from Sam Houston University in May with her master’s degree in dance and plans to teach dance in college – Hermann Sons influence no doubt. Jourdanton Lodge is well known around the community.

We were told the second ship of Pearl Harbor refugees heading back to the States was not as lucky as we were. It was sunk by the Japanese. We never heard how far they had made it before they were sunk. I don’t know why we were put on the first ship to come back and not the second ship, but I am very grateful that it happened that way, yet extremely sad that those on the other ship did not make it back home. Something interesting that our mom always told us when talking about Pearl Harbor was that they were told that they could not tell anyone that our ship had been shot at by a Japanese submarine because President Roosevelt did not want Americans to know that a Japanese submarine had gotten so close and into American waters by San Francisco Bay. Everyone on our ship was sworn to secrecy before they could get off the boat.  We were not told until we were older, so I am not sure when the secret got out or if the information included our ship escaping a torpedo and the 2nd ship being sunk.

When we landed in San Francisco, someone took pictures of Helen and I and it ended up in the San Francisco Chronicle.  My picture showed me crying and had my name wrong. Helen’s picture was taken with another boy, who also was a refugee from Pearl Harbor and a San Francisco nurse.  Our Aunt Gladys use to tell us that when the picture of Helen and the boy came out, they had so many calls from people wanting to adopt them for they thought they were orphans. There are always people standing up in times of disaster. That is what makes America so great.

We were lucky that our Aunt Helen, our dad’s sister, who was a nun in Oakland, California, arranged for us to live in the convent with all the nuns. It was nighttime when we arrived and when we went to bed there were stuffed animal on our beds. I can only imagine how happy and excited

Pearl Harbor is a U.S. naval base near Honolulu, Hawaii, that was the scene of a devastating surprise attack by Japanese forces on Dec. 7, 1941. Just before 8 a.m. on that Sunday morning, hundreds of Japanese fighter planes descended on the base, where they managed to destroy or damage nearly

20 American naval vessels, including eight battleships, and over 300 airplanes. More than 2,400 Americans died in the attack, including civilians, and another 1,000 people were wounded. The day after the assault, President Franklin D. Roosevelt asked Congress to declare war on Japan. ( history.com)

we were to get them. We stayed there for a few months and then moved to Memphis, Tenn. where our mom grew up and some of her family resided. We stayed In Memphis until I was 5 years old when our dad came back from the war. He was assigned to Kelly Field in San Antonio and later Brooks Field in San Antonio until he retired with 33 years of military service.  San Antonio is where we grew up and went to school. When Helen was in her twenties, she had a flashback related to the bombing.  She was at a movie theater watching the movie, Father Goose with Cary Grant.  In the movie, Cary Grant is a South Sea beachcomber who is persuaded to spy on Japanese planes flying over his island.  He ends up caring for a school teacher and her seven students. In one scene there is a Japanese plane shooting at them. The sound of the shooting must have sparked a memory of Pearl Harbor for Helen for she freaked out and started shaking and sweating and literally crawled down the aisle of the theater to get away.  I’m sure those that saw her were wondering why that young woman was crawling down the aisle and acting so crazy.  If only they knew the real story!

When we grew up, Russia was the enemy that was a threat to America, and we were always taught that they could invade us and start a third world war. Something must have happened that triggered the memory of Pearl Harbor again for Helen for she had a dream and in that dream this time it was the Russians that

were coming after her with their machine guns shooting, and she woke up shaking and sweating profusely just like she did at the movie theater. Our Aunt Gladys told us that after the bombing whenever Helen or I would hear a plane we would run and hide under the bed. To this day when I hear loud noises, I jump and shake, probably reliving the bombs striking the airfield and the front yard of the house next door to us. I was two so my memories are mostly what I have been told, except for the planes, bombs and loud noises I saw and heard that were stashed away in my memory somewhere. Helen was five and she has all of that plus more traumatic memories as she was more aware of what was happening that day. When she hears guns shooting, she gets freaked out. War is devastating, even to the children in harm’s way. We should never forget those soldiers and seamen who lost their lives during a bad time in America’s history.  Most of the veterans of that war are gone now.  We need to not forget them and all those who lost their lives in all our wars.  If there is one thing we know, it is that history repeats itself. “Only the dead have seen the end of war.” Never forget Pearl Harbor, or any other war, that so many Americans have given their lives to keep America safe and free. May God bless all our veterans and military who have given, or are giving, their lives for America’s freedom.  Never forget them for they are the backbone of America, and they deserve our gratitude and thanks.

....a Japanese submarine had sneaked

offshore

a shot at our ship, but, miraculously, the torpedo turned at the last minute and missed our ship.“

Room rentals available at Retirement Home Annex

COMFORT – Looking to spend some time away in the beautiful Hill Country? How about a room nestled on the hill at the Retirement Home in Comfort?

Vice President of Member Benefits Cecily Kelly has announced renovation at the home’s Annex building is complete and rooms are now available to Hermann Sons Life members for overnight stays.

Renovation work to the building built in 1964 included new floors, paint, new furniture with bedding and plumbing updates.

Cecily explained that room rentals have always been available in the Retirement Home building, but the Annex is now exclusively for guest rentals. Proceeds will help offset the cost of running the Home.

“We are so excited this project is complete and are anxious to start serving our members with a wonderful stay in the beautiful Hill Country,” Cecily said.

Several lodges donated funds toward the renovation costs.

“We are so grateful to all the support this project received,” Cecily said.

The Annex includes a common room with a TV, a small refrigerator and coffee maker. There are nine double rooms. These are family rooms that have two separate bedrooms and a shared bathroom. The rental fee is $100 per night.

A single room is also available and includes a private bath-

room. The rental fee for a single is $75 per night.

Rooms are also still available to rent in the Retirement Home’s main building – a nighttime private bathroom is possible, but not guaranteed. The rental fee for this room is $50 per night.

Meals in the Retirement Home’s main building can be purchased for a fee of $5 per person.

For more information or for reservations, call Retirement Home Manager Brenda Gunnink at 830-995-2724.

Two scholarship opportunities available for seniors

SAN ANTONIO – Each year Hermann Sons Life supports graduating seniors who are current members through two scholarship programs.

The Shannon Leigh GaffneyHermann Sons Youth Camp Scholarship awards three $1,000 scholarships for the fall semester.

The scholarship provides college scholarships to graduating high school seniors who are current members of Hermann Sons Life who attended Hermann

Sons Life Camp. Premiums and dues must be current to apply.

Deadline to apply is March 1.

The online application can be found at hermannsonslife.org/ programs/scholarships.

This fund was established in memory of Shannon Leigh Gaffney. Shannon was a camper and counselor for eight summers at Hermann Sons Life Camp. Although taken from her family and friends too soon, her memory and enthusiasm for Camp lives on through this scholarship

program.

Applicants must submit documentation of their scholastic record, two letters of reference testifying to their talents and character, and an essay titled “How Being a Hermann Sons Camper Helped to Shape the Person I Am Today.”

The Hermann Sons Life Retirement Home Scholarship Fund will award four $1,500 scholarships. Each applicant must be a member of Hermann Sons Life

for a minimum of five years and have a certificate of insurance and local lodge dues paid up on the date of the filing of the application.

High school grades will have no bearing on who receives these scholarships, only the student’s desire to better himself/ herself. As part of the application, students must write an essay of 300 words or less on what Hermann Sons Life means to them.

Scholarships will be awarded

to first-year college students only and may be used at any four-year university, two-year community college or trade school of the student’s choosing.

Deadline to apply is April 1. The online application can be found at hermannsonslife.org/ programs/scholarships.

Several lodges also offer scholarships to juniors graduating from high school. Check with an officer from your lodge for details.

Pictured are some of the rooms available to rent at the Retirement Home Annex.

80 Years

DOROTHY M. EICKMANN

New Bruanfels Lodge

75 Years

WALTER L. WEILBACHER

Anton Wenzel Lodge

WILLIAM J. SCHAFFNER JR.

Cat Spring Lodge

VIRGINIA L. BRIETZKE

Converse Lodge

CARROLL D. BLANK

WAYNE C. BLANK

CHARLES W. WANJURA

Cuero Family Lodge

JIMMY K. WALCH

Dunlay Lodge

BETTIE B. JORDAN

Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge

JAMES A. FROEBEL

Gulf Lodge

DENNIS G. ZAHN

Haskell Lodge

P.L. SCHWERTFEGER

Niederwald Lodge

VERNON F. SPARCK

Nordheim Lodge

JOYCE M. ORTS

Poth Lodge

LINDA K. REYNOLDS

Prinz Solms Lodge

MILTON A. MACHE

Schulenburg Lodge

HILDONA KEGLEY

Schwertner Lodge

CORDELIA LAUTER

Washington Lodge

C.G. RIEMENSCHNEIDER

Weesatche Lodge

ROBERT L. BLAIN

Yorktown Lodge

70 Years

M.C. FISCHER JR.

RANDAL R. SEEWALD

WILLIAM R. STAPPER

JOAN Y. WHARFF

Anton Wenzel Lodge

PAULETTE K. SCHWARTZ

Columbia Lodge

ROY W. MOELLER

Comfort Lodge

LINDA K. HARTSELL

GERTRUDE F. JOHNSON

Corpus Christi Lodge

MARGARET L. DAVIS

Dallas Lodge

CLIFTON R. BREITEN

Dunlay Lodge

DARYL A. HOWARD

Gonzales Lodge

CHARLES J. HANER

Helotes Lodge

PEGGY L. NUNEZ

Hondo Victory Lodge

ALYCE I. KANZ

Kypfer-Salge Lodge

MICHAEL W. FEHLIS SR. Lockhart Lodge

DEBORAH L. TUMLINSON

Louise Schuetze Lodge

LOIS E. DAUGHERTY

ELSIE F. GERMER

Niederwald Lodge

J.D. ZWERNEMANN

Pershing Lodge

FELIX DOEGE JR.

VIVIAN A. JANEK

Poth Lodge

MERRILYN Y. STAMPS

Rockport Lodge

ALLEN R. GESCHEIDLE

PATRICK J. REAL

Seguin Lodge

Pioneers

MARIAN E. VANAUSDALL

Spring Branch Lodge

VICKIE S. NOLES

Taylor Lodge

CLIFTON KNOLL

Twin Sisters Lodge

CAROLE S. NIX

Vineta Lodge

60 Years

RONALD C. JETTON

JANIS L. MERGELE

REBECCA MESCHER-VUXTA

PHYLLIS A. POLLARD

Abilene Lodge

SCOTT T. SCHIEFFER

Austin Lodge

ROBERT G. FREY

CATHY A. B. GARNER

BARBARA GREMMEL

ROBERT C. HEISE Brenham Lodge

KATHRYN F. HALUSKA Columbus Lodge

SHIRLEY A. GOSS Cuero Family Lodge

BRIAN W. BOEHLE Dunlay Lodge

JOHN L. TROXEL Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge

DENISE M. KUBENA Ellinger Lodge

PATRICIA A. DIAMANTI El Paso Lodge

TERRY D. LAMPMAN BEVERLY TUREK Fort Worth Lodge

SHERRY F. DAILEY

CLYDE L. PEHL

Fredericksburg Lodge

CAROLYN G. MARKERT Giddings Lodge

PATRICIA A. ANDERS

LARRY G. NESBITT

Gonzales Lodge

HERBERT D. FISCHER

Haskell Lodge

HENRIETTA L. DAWSON

NANETTE D. DAWSON

Helotes Lodge

JANICE M. WHITEHEAD

Hondo Victory Lodge

CONNIE S. GODWIN

Houston Lodge

KAREN L. GRIER-HEIM Jourdanton Lodge

BRENDA L. POLASEK

MARTHA J. ROBERTS

Karnes City Lodge

KAREN E. BOENIG

MARCELLINE SHODROCK

Kirby Lodge

RANDALL K. HERZOG

Laubach Lodge

DONNA L. BOEHLE

KATHRYN R. GASTON

DEBORAH A. HOOD

PEBBLE J. PETERS

KATHLEEN H. TARBOX

Louise Schuetze Lodge

R.E. BLACKWELL JR.

KAREN A. KNOX

Mission-Alamo Lodge

BETTY J. SAMPLE

Nixon-Smiley Lodge

LARAINE J. FAIR

Paul Vogt Lodge

CARSON W. COLDEWEY Poth Lodge

WANDA HARTENSTEINER

AUDREY D. MARKERT

JUDITH K. MARKERT Schulenburg Lodge

EDWARD S. RAKOWITZ JR. Siemering Lodge

CARLENE K. LANCASTER

CARLTON R. SCHWAB Spring Branch Lodge

CHERYL Y. PEACOCK

PAULA T. SOUKUP

Vineta Lodge

PENNEY HALTMAR Washington Lodge

JOE A. RUSSELL

TIMMY A. RUSSELL

BARBARA RUSSELL-HARTGRAVES Womack Lodge

50 Years

KEITH E. SPAHN Anton Wenzel Lodge

JOY A. NIED Beaumont Lodge

JOHN E. HULSE JR.

SUZANNE M. MOEHLMANN

JEFFREY W. PURVIS Brenham Lodge

LISA A. DAVIS Brunhilde Lodge

KATHERINE M. AKIN Bryan Lodge

LINDA D. HOLZHAUS Castroville Lodge

DE'ANN BUIE

DANNY R. ECKHARDT

TAMMRA R. MARQUART Comfort Lodge

GLENN W. FAUBION Converse Lodge

CASEY L. PRUETT

MELINDA G. WANJURA Cuero Family Lodge

KRISTINA A. ECKEL Dogwood Trail Lodge

KELLY R. ARMOUR

ANTHONY P. DERKOWSKI

CATHY A. SCHOLZ Edelweiss Magnolia Lodge

VICKIE A. SCHULTZ Gay Hill Lodge

GARDAN L. GERDES

DAVID C. HARMS

MICHAEL A. HARMS

MICHAEL J. MAASS Giddings Lodge

GEORGE M. WRIGHT Harmonia Lodge

DOYLE E. HIGH Haskell Lodge

JASON H. BENDELE Hondo Lodge

KATHLEEN G. ANDERSON

PATRICIA F. BUSHMAN Houston Lodge

KEVIN W. GEIGER La Coste Lodge

VIVIAN E. LUEDECKE

JOHN J. PEREZ La Vernia Lodge

SCOTT W. MATTFELD

Laubach Lodge

Howie’s Happenings

Howie’s guest not impressed with his shenanigans

By ROBIN CZARNEK President/CEO

Howie has been hard at work this month growing, eating, chewing and shredding. At 7 months and pushing 60 pounds, he has surpassed lapdog status and will likely outgrow his doggy door. If he ever grows fully into his humongous paws, we’ll have a moose on our hands! He has fully embraced the puppy pastime of chewing and shredding objects and it’s not uncommon to find a sock or a shoe in our backyard…not to mention a couple of poorly placed Christmas presents, I am ashamed to say. It’s been a while since we have had a puppy and he is reminding us of why it’s important to put things away.

Howie recently had a month-long visit from his

buddy, Tig. While our daughter, Haley, travels for work, we’re on grandparent duty for Tig and Howie has loved every minute of it…Tig not so much. At 5-years-old, Tig seems to think of Howie as the annoying little brother. They went rounds pretty much daily and Tig found hiding spots when Howie’s puppy enthusiasm and energy were just too much to handle. Thankfully, Tig is a good sport and while she said her piece to him more than a few times, she always played with him and loved on him too. I think she realizes he is a baby, albeit a big one.

Howie would like to introduce you to his friend, Jasper. Jasper was pulled from a high kill facility. He was covered in fleas and suffering from dermatitis, with lots of hair loss and some sores on

his body. Once treatment began, he felt much better and now his hair has completely grown back. Jasper has lots of energy and loves to run and play, but he also loves his snuggles. He loves toys, playing with other dogs and will make you smile every day. Jasper is dog-selective as to who he likes, so a meet and greet is required.

If interested in meeting Jasper, or for more information, please email: hotk9rescue@ yahoo.com to schedule a time to meet him.

For more information and to view all of the amazing dogs available for adoption, please check out Heart of Texas SPCA / HOTK9 Rescue at www.heartoftexasspca. com. Keep in mind that Heart of Texas SPCA/HOT K9 Rescue is a volunteer run organization, so email is best.

Pioneers

Cont’d from Pg. 13

50 Years

MARCIE B. CRUTCHFIELD

JENNIFER C. HAYMAN

MISTY L. MCBRIDE

Louise Schuetze Lodge

JEROME H. BAERWALD SR.

CORINE R. BAERWALD

KRISTIE L. HARTMAN

Mission-Alamo Lodge

CHRISTINA M. LISK

TINA D. PLATT

New Braunfels Lodge

WONCILE W. FOWLER

Old Glory Lodge

HAROLD F. NEFF JR.

LYNDA B. NEFF

CHERYL L. SANIN

Pershing Lodge

LAURA J. VESTAL

Schulenburg Lodge

DALE W. DAMERAU

TERRY R. HARDER

WALTER R. HARDER

Seguin Lodge

TROY D. MEYER

Shelby Lodge

DIANE M. DREXLER

CHARLES D. VINCIK

Shiner Lodge

BENJAMIN C. BOYD III

WILLIAM A. GROS JR.

STEVEN T. HAYS

RONALD W. MARTIN

Siemering Lodge

DARREL L. BRAUNE

MICHELLE A.D. FELLER

JENNIFER HITZFELDER

Spring Branch Lodge

BONNIE J. JAKOB

Twin Sisters Lodge

DIANE M. BROLL

DEBRA L. GAINOR

LENNEA M. SCHLICHTING

JULIA A. WRIGHT

Vineta Lodge

ROSEMARY B. UPCHESHAW

Washington Lodge

GAYLE D. HOEFLING

Yorktown Lodge

Howie’s friend Jasper is in need of a home. Email hotk9rescue@yahoo. com for details.

Howie, photos on left, continues to grow. These days he is keeping busy chewing and shreddingand not only his toys!

Velma Chestnutt earned her 70-year membership pin in 2022. She has been a member since Aug. 16, 1952. She was a member of Hillboldt Lodge that merged with Brenham Lodge in 2018. Her policy was purchased by her dad, Ervin Leverkuhn, when she was 9 years old. Her family resided in Waller County, and she currently resides in Houston. Velma and her husband Charles are both retired teachers and together taught for 79 years. She taught for 36 years in the Hempstead ISD, East Bernard ISD and Galena Park ISD at North Shore Senior High School.

Lillie M. Hosek has received her 75-year membership pin. She is a member of Da Costa Lodge and has been a member since Dec. 7, 1948.

Dallas presents Humanitarian of the Year award

DALLAS – Dallas Lodge will meet Sunday, March 19, at 1 p.m. at the Hall.

Members are encouraged to attend and support the lodge and Home Association.

The annual Home Association meeting will follow at 2 p.m. Food and drinks will be served after that meeting.

At the January meeting, President Andy Schellenberg welcomed members and guests, Fred Holmes, Stephanie Stewart and Columbia Lodge members David Lewis, Bobby Wilbanks, Amanda Hobbs and Jeremiah Arauco.

Andy installed the 2023 officers and appointed officers.

Teresa Dobson received her 60-year membership pin. She has been a member since Jan. 8, 1963, and resides in Marietta, Ga.

The 2022 Humanitarian of the Year Award was presented to Terri Holmes. She also won the attendance award.

Membership Coordinator Steve Schellenberg reported the

lodge has 305 total members282adults and 23 juniors.

Clint Holmes, Eva Lloyd and Margaret Owens will serve on the Scholarship Committee this year.

The Financial Report for July 1, 2022- Dec. 31, 2022, was scheduled for review following

Burton will meet May 2

BURTON – Burton Lodge will meet Tuesday, May 2, at 6 p.m. at the Texas Seafood and Steakhouse.

It has been proposed to change the quarterly meeting dates to the first Tuesday of May, August and November.

At the February meeting,

birthday celebrants for the quarter were Emily Lehde, Bradley Fischer and Patsy Fischer.

A sympathy card was sent to the family of Ella Mae Ruemke. Donnie Blinka gave his agent’s report. – Reporter

Lockhart installs officers

LOCKHART –Lockhart Lodge officers for 2023 were installed at the February meeting held at Smitty’s Market.

Agent Janice Kuhen reported on annuities and junior member policies. She also announced the Family Fun Day is at Six Flags Fiesta Texas this year on June 24.

President Nicky Duewall asked members to think of Join Hands Day project ideas to discuss in March.

Jonelle Frerich celebrated a birthday in February.

The door prize winners were Anna Duewall, Karen Buckner and Nancy Hess.

the meeting and when approved will be sent to the Home Office. A discussion was held about declining membership and lodge participation. The possibility of merging with Columbia Lodge was also discussed. More information will be gathered for future discussion.

Dallas

Events pending include Join Hands Day, May 6; membership pin ceremony/lunch, May 21; Make a Difference Day, Oct. 21; and Christmas/lunch, Humanitarian Award and pin

presentations, Dec. 17 at the hall. Members thanked Eva Day, Terri, Eva Lloyd and Andy for the food and drinks.

– Reporter

Lockhart Lodge member Jonelle Frerich celebrated a birthday in February.

Following the meeting, members enjoyed a meal.

– Reporter

Stockdale Lodge installs 2023 officers

2023 officers at the January meeting. Pictured are, from left, L.H. West, Chad Wiatrek, Barbara Wiatrek, Dustin Krueger and Kim Krueger. The schedule of events for 2023 was discussed. Birthday wishes were extended to Tricia Kozielski, Kim Krueger and L.H. West. They were each gifted a lotto scratch-off ticket. Everyone enjoyed refreshments following the meeting.

Bernardo Lodge plans three donations

CAT SPRING – Bernardo Lodge officers for 2023 were installed at the January meeting.

The lodge will give three $100 donations to local organizations. They are the Columbus Lions Club, the Columbus Rotary Club and the Boys and Girls Clubs of America.

In his report, Agent Terrel Maertz announced Hermann Sons Life annuity rates have increased to 4 percent, and he reminded juniors Camp registration will open soon.

In the Cheer Committee report, Beatrce Hill said get-well cards were sent to Leon Dittmar and R.W. Maertz.

Correspondence included a thank-you card from the Columbus Elementary PTO Board members thanking the lodge for its donation to the Breakfast with Santa event held in December.

The next meeting was scheduled for Feb. 15.

The Dallas Lodge Humanitarian of the Year Award for 2022 was presented by President Andy Schellenberg to Terri Holmes.

Lodge 2023 officers were installed at the January meeting. Pictured are from left, standing, Eva Day, Steve Schellenberg, Andy Schellenberg, Clint Holmes, from left, sitting, Brigitte Robinson, Terri Holmes and Eva Lloyd.

Stockdale Lodge President Ron Wiatrek, right, installed

Spring Branch presents award

BULVERDE – Spring Branch Lodge will meet Sunday, March 19, at the Bulverde Community Center at 2:30 p.m.

Officers were installed at the January meeting. They are Sharon Knibbe, president; Darrell Woody, vice president; Karen Woody, secretary/treasurer; Laverne Halloran, cheer person; Jane Wanke, reporter; Phyllis Havens, Jane Wanke and Chuck Knibbe, Finance Committee; Ben Havens and Alverne Halloran, trustees.

The lodge awarded the Humanitarian of the Year Award to Lucy Walker. Lucy donates many hours of her time volunteering at charitable organizations in the community.

Correspondence from the Home Office included a thank you for the lodge’s donation to the Retirement Home Christmas Fund. The Home Office also reminded members Youth Camp registration will open in March and Join Hands Day is May 6. Lodge members will choose a project at the March meeting.

Attendance-prize winners were Darrell Woody, Ed Gefken, Carl Wanke, Sandra Duncan, Jane Wanke, Benard Bosco, Neva Bosco and Sharon Knibbe.

Sharon Knibbe celebrated a birthday and she and husband Chuck provided the meal.

Kypfer-Salge pioneer receives 75-year pin

CLEAR SPRINGS – Kypfer-Salge Lodge will meet on Friday, March 3. The lodge will provide fish and members are asked to bring sides and desserts.

Kathy Noble has received her 75-year membership pin.

February birthday celebrants were NeIrose Koepp and Charlie Seiter. Celebrating February anniversaries were Oran and Nelrose Koepp, 66 years and Dennis and Molly Koepp, 40 years.

Hamburgers made by Kery Noble were served at the February meeting. Members provided sides and desserts. A get-well card was sent to Nancy Brinkkoeter.

Hochheim-Prairie Lodge to meet March 5

Hochheim-Prairie Lodge supported two junior members, Abeigh, left, and Gage Dicke who participated in Yoakum’s FFA and 4-H stock show held January. They are the children of Carri Dicke and grandchildren of Charlie and Carolyn Hoepfl and Sandra Dicke. The lodge will meet March 5. The 2023 officers will be installed, and a memorial program will be held. A meal will be served prior to the meeting.

Laubach will meet March 12

SEGUIN – Laubach Lodge will meet Sunday, March 12, at Rocket Wings/Dixie Grill in Seguin at 1 p.m. All members are encouraged to attend.

The last quarterly meeting was

also held at Rocket Wings/Dixie Grill in December. Members enjoyed playing several guessing games.

– Dorothy K. Constable

It was reported hall repairs are complete for now although a foundation repair and door

Anniversary celebrants at the February meeting of Kypfer-Salge Lodge were, in front, Oran and Nelrose Koepp, 66 years, and in back, Molly and Dennis Koepp, 40 years.

replacement are needed soon.

Attendance-prize winners were Jim Sureddin, who donated his winnings back to

the lodge, Josh Carpio, Kathy Noble, Dennis Koepp and Oran Koepp. – Reporter

McGregor to meet at Luigi’s

McGREGOR – McGregor Lodge will meet March 7 at Luigi’s in Waco at 5 p.m.

President Doris Mooney installed the 2023 officers at the February meeting held at The Coffee Shop.

Celebrating birthdays at the February meeting of Kypfer-Salge Lodge were Nelrose Koepp and Charlie Seiter.

Sympathy was extended to the family of Jeff Leavitt, to Joyce Wiethorn for the loss of her brother, Tommy Hennig, and to the family of Karen Schmalriede

Hemphill, daughter of the late Edward and Janet Schmalriede.

Get-well wishes were sent to El Nora Lawton, and members were glad to welcome back Karen Johnson Rice to meetings.

Door-prize winners were Jerome Weinstrom and John Sneed. Thank you to Teresa Sneed for baking and sharing Valenptine cookies.

– Doris Mooney

– Jane Wanke

Spring Branch Lodge President Sharon Knibbe, left, presented the Humanitarian of the Year Award to Lucy Walker.

Spring Branch Lodge President Sharon Knibbe accepts a birthday gift from Vice President Darrell Woody.

San Marcos to hold memorial service March 6

SAN MARCOS – San Marcos Lodge will meet March 6 at the LaVista Club House in San Marcos at 6:30 p.m. The annual memorial service for members who passed in 2022 will be held.

The members who will be honored are the late Naomi Belote, Bobby Ray Robbins, Betty Jo Hall DeLaRosa, Peggy Schmeltekopf, Estelle Hogan, Leola Gourley, Clifford Rust and Margaret Russell Younger. Family members and friends are invited to attend. RSVP to Janice Kuhen at 512-393-1431 by March 3.

The lodge held the February meeting at the Golden Corral restaurant in New Braunfels. Members dressed in red for Heart Awareness Month and in celebration of Valentine’s Day.

The 2023 elected and appointed officers were installed.

A get-well card was signed by all in attendance to send to Esther Schmidt.

A thank-you letter was received from the Hays County Food Bank for the lodge’s food and monetary donations presented during the Christmas

party.

President Agnes Dreibrodt reminded members scholarships are available for graduating high school seniors, the Shannon Gaffney Youth Camp Scholarship and the Hermann Sons Life Retirement Home Scholarship. These applications can be found on the Hermann Sons Life website at www.hermannsonslife.org/programs/scholarships

Also, the 31st Annual Retirement Home Chili and Bean

Cook-off will be held at the Home on Saturday, March 11. Proceeds benefit the Scholarship Fund. Everyone is encouraged to attend.

For Join Hands Day, the lodge will join with junior members and members of the 4-H Club to create greeting cards.

Happy birthday wishes were sung to February birthday celebrants Irene Bierstedt, Benhard Faske and Yvonne Reimers. George and Irene Bierstedt cel-

ebrated an anniversary in February.

The following “sweetheart” couples were recognized, Marshall and Mary Jane Smith, Shirley and Benhard Faske, John and Betty Schawe, Irene and George Bierstedt, Janet and Howard Magin and Ken and Lillian Cargil.

Attendance-prize winners were John Schawe and Betty Rust.

– Janice Kuhen

Giddings welcomes new member

GIDDINGS – Giddings Lodge will meet March 9 at 7 p.m. at the Silos of 77.

The lodge welcomed new member Myra Powers at the last meeting. She is retired military and plans to tour more of the United States.

Condolences were extended to the family of LeRoy Grimm, an active member of the lodge and director of the hall for many years.

Richland Lodge will meet March 5

Richland Lodge collected toiletries in observance of Make a Difference Day for Gather-n-Give, an organization in Pflugerville that provides essentials to families in crisis. The donations were presented during the December Christmas party. Pictured are on right, Steve and Donna Lyons and Harvey Hodde, Darryl Hodde and Tammy Kelley on left. Vice President of Member Benefits Cecily Kelly and Agent Shirley Faske were in attendance. The lodge will meet March 5 at noon at the hall. Officers will be installed, and plans made for the Join Hands Day project. All members are encouraged to attend. A meal will be provided, and members are asked to bring a dessert. The February meeting was canceled due to the recent ice storm. Members are reminded of the noon meal on Sunday, April 2, at the hall. For more information, contact Tammy Kelley at 512-740-5022.

Paige will meet March 12

PAIGE – Paige Lodge will meet Sunday, March 12, at noon. Plans for Easter and other events will be discussed, and a potluck meal will be served

The April meeting has been changed to Sunday, April 9, and will include an Easter egg hunt. Members were happy to have in attendance Regional Sales Manager Curtis Dishman, Agent Linda

Mattocks and Giddings Lodge President Pat Abell at the February meeting.

All members and guests are invited to attend meetings held on the Second Sunday of each month at noon at Paige Hall unless otherwise noted. Come out and enjoy food, drinks and fellowship.

Reporter

Members voted to offer a $300 scholarship to a junior attending Camp this summer.

The lodge recognized birthday celebrant Olivia Mize, an active member of the lodge. Pecan pie and a miniature cake was served.

Each member received $5 for gas money.

Members enjoyed a barbecue dinner prepared by Lost Pines BBQ of Giddings. Members provided sides.

Reporter

In celebration of Valentine’s Day, San Marcos Lodge recognized “sweetheart” couples during the February meeting. They are, from left, George and Irene Bierstedt, Howard and Janet Magin, Ken and Lillian Cargill, Marshall and Mary Jane Smith, Benhard and Shirley Faske and John and Betty Schawe.

San Marcos Lodge recognized birthday celebrants, from left, Irene Bierstedt, Benhard Faske and Yvonne Reimers at the February meeting.

San Marcos Lodge members Irene and George Bierstedt celebrated an anniversary in February.

Giddings Lodge recognized birthday celebrant Olivia Mize.

Giddings Lodge welcomes new member Myra Powers.

El Campo will present membership pins April 7

EL CAMPO – El Campo Lodge will meet April 7 at 6:30 p.m. at the Masonic Lodge located on 1901 North Mechanic. Membership pins for 50, 60, 70 and 75 years will be presented during the meeting. Recipients will be mailed a personal invitation.

For the February meeting, Linda Harris decorated the hall in red and white in celebration of Valentine’s Day.

Officers for 2023 were installed. They are, President Dennis Wigginton; Vice President Charles Harris; Secretary/ Treasurer Cindy Witcher; trustees, Wendel Witcher, Linda Harris and Ruby Wigginton; Finance Committee members, Amy Witcher, Susan Hansen and Kim Hailey; Youth/Community Coordinator Cindy Witcher and Membership Coordinator Dennis Wigginton.

Meetings are held at the Masonic Lodge, 1901 North Mechanic. The 2023 schedule: April 7, June 2, Aug. 4, Oct. 26 and Dec. 1. All meetings are on a Friday except for October which is on a Thursday.

Members voted to donate $200 to the Masonic Lodge

for the use of its building for meetings.

Celebrating birthdays in January and February were junior members Kylynn Harris, Fisher Hailey and Alyssa Medrano.

Dennis, also an agent, discussed the purpose of life insurance and how it helps pay final expenses for the insurer. Many don’t realize how expensive this can be for a family. He explained the Texas Department of Insurance regulates the cost of life insurance based on one’s age and health. The

cost of premiums is based on one’s life expectancy as well as future final expenses. If you or someone you know are interested in finding out more, contact Dennis at 832-278-9636.

Dennis prepared a meal of braised chicken, buttered potatoes, green beans, desserts, tea and punch served to 24 members and guests before the meeting.

Door prizes of $5 gift cards or a bag of Valentine treats were given to all present.

Fort Worth will meet on March 5

FORT WORTH – Fort Worth Lodge members survived the recent ice storm and lots of rain. The next meeting is March 5 at 3 p.m. at Sammy’s Italian Bistro located at 225 Exchange St. in Burleson.

It’s time to work on the new membership goal for 2023. Camp registration will open soon. Encourage juniors to attend and to invite their friends. Keep up with all the improvements that have been made and are being made at Camp in the Hermann Sons Life newspaper. Call Sandra Jones at 817-781-7155 or the Home Office for policy and membership information. There are great plans available for juniors and adults and annuities rates have recently increased.

Hats off to all the members and friends who purchased Re -

tirement Home Chili Cook-off raffle tickets from Sandra Jones. Thanks to Karen Burns-Lane for her help. Sandra exceeded her goal and sold 500 tickets. The cook-off will be held March 11 at the Home.

A bit of a history lesson – how many members knew that there was a Hermann Sons lodge in Cleburne? It was charted on Nov. 29, 1899, as Cleburne Lodge No. 187. On July 1, 1950, Cleburne Lodge merged into Fort Worth Lodge. The question about a Cleburne Lodge came about when a man in Cleburne found an old bill of sale where the lodge bought a piece of property.

If anyone was a member of Cleburne Lodge and transferred to Fort Worth, please contact Sandra. It would be nice to have some more of its

New Braunfels will serve stew

history.

Congratulations to 60-year membership pin recipients Terry Lampman, a member since March 7, 1953, and Beverly Turek, a member since March 1, 1963. They are invited to attend the lodge’s pin presentation. Date and time will be announced in the newspaper.

Sympathy is extended to the family of Linda Miller. Linda had been a member since March 15, 1972.

Happy birthday wishes go out to Reese Baker, Michael Hurst, Sam Jones, Katelyn Kassler, Sheila Kime, Kimberly LeBlanc, Cooper Lee, Pat Miller, Gene Pierce, Sherry Pierce, Adella Reagan, Matthew Schick, Gracie Stephenson, Lyndall Thompson, Jaxsen Voss, Ronald Walters and Aubree Wright.

NEW BRAUNFELS – New Braunfels Lodge will meet March 5. Stew will be furnished, and members are asked to bring sides or desserts. Dennis Schwab will host.

The April meal will be catered. A sign-up sheet will be available at the March meeting or RSVP to Sandra Guenther at 830-625-5709.

At the February meeting, the hall was decorated for Valentine’s Day. The lodge welcomed four new members and six transfer members.

A memorial service was held in honor of 14 deceased members.

Happy Birthday was sung to Dennis Schwab, Leola Stolte, Jerome Vetter and Sharon Suchy.  Hannelora and Leroy Brotze celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary.

Attendance-prize winners were Dennis Schwab, Dorothy Moose, B.J. Schneider, Rennie and Sandra Guenther, Connie Krause, Michael Huebinger, Sharon Suchy, Debbie Vetter, Phillip Neff, Delbert Tanneberger and Kennth Staats.

A pulled-pork supper, hosted by Rennie and Sandra Guenther, was served after games and refreshments.

– Reporter

Helotes will meet March 14

HELOTES – Helotes Lodge will meet March 14 at 7 p.m.

A hot meal will be provid-

ed, and door prizes will be awarded.

– Reporter

– Cindy Witcher

John and Kim Hailey attended the El Campo Lodge February meeting along with two of their children, Jackson and Fisher.

Lisa and Lucas Medrano along with their children Alyssa, Makayla, Mya and Kylynn are getting ready for dinner at the February meeting of El Campo Lodge.

Cayden Witcher, Landen Witcher along with their parents, Amy and Wendel Witcher are pictured waiting on the door-prize drawing at the El Campo Lodge February meeting.

Da Costa Lodge plans Annual Easter Spring Fling

DA COSTA – Da Costa Lodge will meet March 14 at 6 p.m. at the hall.

Mark your calendars for the Annual Easter Spring Fling on April 1. This event is free and open to the public. It will include an Easter egg hunt, cake/ toy walk, activities for the kids and the Easter Bunny will be there. Make sure to RSVP at https://bit.ly/DaCostaEggHunt. for the egg count.

A final Planning Committee meeting will be held Thursday, March 23, at 6 p.m. Anyone who would like to help or donate to this event should call Sayra Boop at 361-676-6947 or email  sayra@dacostahall.com. Cake, toys, candy or monetary donations will be greatly appreciated. If a family or business would like to sponsor a game/ booth, the lodge will be happy to promote your business. Any

organization needing community service hours should contact the lodge.

Lodge officers and board directors are selling veteran flags for the Warriors Weekend Field of Honor. The flags are $40, and the deadline is April 28. Contact Sayra Boop or Barbara Hybner for details.

Graduating seniors are reminded lodge scholarship applications will be available soon. The deadline for entries is April 15, 2023. Contact Sayra for information. Students can start by writing an essay about what Hermann Sons Life has meant to them and what it could mean for their future.

Da Costa Lodge Cookbooks are still available, and the price has been reduced to $15. They make great keepsakes or gifts. Contact any lodge offficer or Diane Stastny at 361-579-8512 to

purchase one. Cookbooks can be mailed for an additional $6.

Members are asked to report any member death, birth or illness to Pam Elkins at 361-5785556 so cards can be sent. Leave a message on the answering machine or email to  dacostahall77905@gmail.com

Barbara Hybner is the community coordinator. Members who know of any organizations in need of volunteers or have any ideas, can contact her at 361-550-2509.

Public dances will be held March 11 featuring Glen Collins and the Alibis; April 1 featuring the Chris Zuber Band; and April 29 featuring the Rocky King Band (these tickets will be $15 per person). All public dances are held 8 p.m. to midnight and doors open at 7 p.m. The grill is currently closed.

Watch Facebook at DaCosta

Da Costa Lodge junior member Elizabeth Holliday sold Girl Scout cookies at the January public dance. Any organization interested in fund-raising at a public dance should contact Sayra Boop.

Hall and/or DaCosta Lodge pages for upcoming events.  Call the hall at 361-578-2039, email  dacostahall77905@gmail. com or call President Sayra Boop at 361-676-6947 for any

further questions. Anyone interested in a policy and becoming a member should contact Nancy Walraven at 361-237-1757.

– Sayra Boop

Houston members to meet at Don Jose’s March 13

HOUSTON – Houston Lodge will meet Monday, March 13, at Don Jose’s. Fellowship starts at 6 p.m. and the meal will follow. At the last meeting, elected and appointed officers were installed. Jeff Krahn was elected to the position of trustee. A list of duties for appointed and elected officers was hand-

ed out and discussed. Bylaws were also reviewed.

Donations for 2023 were kept the same as 2022.

Agent Gary Falkenberg reported annuity interest rates are now 4 percent. He reported on other news from the Home Office.

Rueben Heldberg was report-

Bexar lists upcoming events

SAN ANTONIO – Bexar Lodge will meet March 5 at the San Antonio Home Association building, 525 S. St. Mary’s St., at 1 p.m. A light lunch and snacks will be provided. All members are invited to attend.

Save the date for upcoming events. The Join Hands Day Project will be held April 29. Members will be making dog and cat toys for the San Antonio Humane Society.

The lodge will also host a beach clean-up at the Padre Island National Seashore on June 10. It should be a great event for junior members. They will have a chance to become a junior park ranger as they help keep the ocean community clean.

For updates on these events, and others, visit hermannsonslifebexar.com. – Reporter

Niederwald Lodge meets April 4

LOCKHART – Niederwald Lodge will meet April 4, at 11 a.m. A meeting will not be held in March.

At the February meeting, Joyce Dailey, Joe Hennig and

Catherine Blackard were on the sick list.

The door-prize winners were Clarence Schulle and William Schulle. – Reporter

ed on the sick list. The lodge received a thankyou letter from the Houston Food Bank for its donation.  Meeting locations were discussed for 2023 and will be finalized at the next meeting. Plans to meet at a barbecue restaurant for the annual picnic were discussed.

Happy Birthday was sung to Catherine Manchack and Lavinia Patterson.

Winners in the monthly attendance drawing were Gary Falkenberg, Jack Manchack,  Samantha Thompson, Jackie Bushman and James Ellison.   Winners in the annual attendance drawing were Darlene

Ellison, two times; James Ellison and Lavinia Patterson, two times; Jeff Krahn, Jackie Bushman, Doris Falkenberg, Samantha Thompson and Kiera Thompson.

For any lodge questions, call Catherine Manchack at 832443-0469.

– Reporter

Brenham Lodge plans March fund-raiser

BRENHAM – Brenham Lodge will meet Friday, March 10. The meal will be fried chicken. Members are asked to bring sides and/or desserts.

Details for the March fundraiser were announced at the February meeting. The meal will be sirloin steak, sausage and sides.

Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and serving is from 7-8 p.m. Cost is $15 per person. The public is invited. Reservations are required by calling the lodge hall at 979-836-2053, leave your name, number attending and a call back number. Or contact Jeanette Preuss at 979-830-7756 or Shirley Rowan at 979-421-3332. Call on or

Brenham Lodge members celebrating birthdays in February were Shirley Rowan and Aubrey Harmel.

before noon, Tuesday, March 14.

It was announced the lodge met its goal for new members in 2022 and received $75 from the Home Office. The new member goal for 2023 will

be announced at the March meeting.

February birthday celebrants were Shirley Rowan and Aubrey Harmel.

Door-prize winners were Lena Mae Goessler and Robin Mann.

Homemade chili was served with many sides prepared by Karl Goessler, Kevin Goessler and Ronald Bentke.

Bingo games are held every Thursday night. Cards go on sale at 6:15 p.m. and games start at 7 p.m. The public is invited, so bring friends and support the lodge. Games are usually over at 9:30 p.m. Cash prizes are awarded.

Gulf Lodge presents pins, award, donation

Membership pins were presented during the January meeting of Gulf Lodge. Pictured are, from left, 60-year pin recipients, Wynell Lynn Hannes Burke, a member since Dec. 6, 1963; Shirley Hannes, a member since Nov. 13, 1963; 75-year pin recipient, James Allen Frobel, a member since March 18, 1948; President and CEO Robin Czarnek and President Charlie Head.

Seguin Lodge awards prizes in January

Above – Seguin Lodge door-prize winners at the January meeting were, from left, Howard and Velma Huebner, Brian Beutnagel, Mary Allison, Jeff Kallies and Tammy Beutnagel.

Left – Seguin Lodge President Tim Kolbe installed officers at the January meeting. He is pictured with wife Cheryl Kolbe, past president.

Old Glory Lodge will meet on March 5

OLD GLORY – Old Glory Lodge will meet Sunday, March 5. A ham dinner will be served, and members are asked to bring sides and dessert.

The January meeting was cancelled due to weather and illness.

At the February meeting, members observed a moment of silence in memory of Mary J. Lackey.

Gulf Lodge presented the Humanitarian of the Year Award during the January meeting. Pictured are, from left, President and CEO Robin Czarnek, recipient Brenda Smith and in back is President Charlie Head.

On the sick list were Gladys Vahlenkamp, Carolyn and Gary Teichelman and Kathy Teichelman.

Doug Valenkamp announced there would be a dance on April 1. Members approved holding a workday for hall upkeep. Justin Corzine gave an update on the purchase of chairs and tables. A new water heater was pur-

chased.

The Home Office will send invitations to membership pin recip-

ients to attend pin presentations at a future meeting. – Reporter

Mission-Alamo installs officers

SAN ANTONIO – Mission-Alamo Lodge installed 2023 officers and welcomed new member Naomi Rae White at the January meeting.

A motion was made to change the meeting schedule to the fourth Sunday of the month at 2 p.m. The second reading was scheduled for the Feb. 26 meeting.

Gulf Lodge donated a $1,150 check to the Scales family during the January meeting. The family lost their home in a fire recently and were surprised by the donation. The family attends meetings regularly. Pictured are from left, President and CEO Robin Czarnek, President Charlie Head and the Scales family.

The March 26 meeting will be held off-site. The third reading for the schedule change is planned. For more information, contact Vice President Joyce Kneupper at 210-508-5624. A meeting will not be held in April.

– Reporter

Old Glory Lodge member Lou Corzine, from left, is pictured with granddaughter Jacy and son Justin at the February meeting. Jacy and Justin celebrated birthdays in January.

Mission-Alamo Lodge recognized birthday celebrants, from left, Kathy Wilson, Jack Larned and Kirby Cline, at the January meeting.

Schulenburg will meet May 10

SCHULENBURG – Schulenburg Lodge will meet Wednesday, May 10, at the Oakridge Restaurant starting with refreshments at 5:30 p.m. and dinner is at 6 p.m.

President Ed Moeller installed officers at the February meeting. They are President Moeller, Vice President Mary K. Seifert, Secretary Junette Rodecap, Treasurer Chelsea Moeller, Trustees Elmer Ulrich, Kitty Dittrich and Frank Bohlmann, Membership Coordinator Mary Schroeder and Nurs-

ing Homes Coordinator Arline Ulrich.

President Moeller presented a 75-year membership pin to Milton Mache. A member since March 2, 1948.

Patricia M. Barcak of Rockdale has transferred to Cameron Lodge.

A thank-you note from Vice President of Sales Teresa Saathoff was read. Arline Ulrich thanked the lodge for her get-well card.

Bill and Delores Michalke made

a memorial donation in honor of Leonard Sumbera.

Arline Ulrich delivered a birthday gift to Billie Rightmer at the Regency Nursing Home.

Membership Coordinator Mary Schroeder reported get-well cards were sent out in December to Arline Ulrich, Georgia Kalich, Josephine Klesel and Verlene Hoffmann. January cards were sent to Josephine Klesel, Linda Wagner and Janis Kutac.

– Junette Rodecap

Lodge President Ed Moeller, left, presented a 75-year membership pin to Milton Mache, at the February meeting. Milton has been a member since March 2, 1948.

Corpus Christi Lodge holds potluck

Door Prize winners at the Corpus Christi Lodge February meeting were, from left, Alivia Tamez, Goldie Beal and Hunter Buitron. The lodge met at Hilltop Community Center. A potluck dinner was served and members played bingo. Get-well wishes were extended to President Cheryl Garcia.

Paul Vogt Lodge installs officers

Paul Vogt Lodge officers were installed during the February meeting. Pictured are, from left, Mary Zoeller, trustee; Barbara Marquardt, vice president; Betty Friar, president; Chrysti Friar, youth coordinator; and Pamela Poulk, financial secretary. Members discussed and set the 2023 calendar. The lodge has purchased chairs and new drapes and an exit door was installed in the kitchen. More improvements are planned to help keep the more than 100-year-old building around for another generation. A meal of lasagna and salad was served.

Poth Lodge earns bonus for meeting member goal

Birthday celebrant

Pat Riek, standing, was recognized at the February meeting of Corpus Christi Lodge. She is pictured with her friend David.

POTH – Poth Lodge welcomed new member, Dylan James Gordon, at the February meeting.

The lodge earned a certificate of achievement and a $75 bonus for meeting the 2022 membership goal.

Hall rental rules were reviewed and posted in the kitchen.

Discussion was held on holding a special event in the summer. More information to come.

Happy birthday wishes went to February celebrant Chris Kotara who turned 91 years old.

Door prize winners were Lawrence Maha and Chris Kotara. Names drawn for the kitty prize but not in attendance were Brock C. Dim, Patrick Poth and Evelyn Bednardz. Since no one won the prize, increased by $2.

A workday at the hall was scheduled for Feb. 12.

Members enjoyed chicken salad with crackers, a strawberry and banana salad and bingo games.

Reporter

Schulenburg

The 2023

Poth Lodge member Chris Kotara celebrated his 91st birthday in February.

Kirby Lodge plans sausage meal for March 6

KIRBY – Kirby Lodge will meet March 6 at 7 p.m. Sausage will be provided, and members are asked to bring a side or dessert. The quarterly attendanceprize drawing will be held and awarded to a member who attended the January, February and March meetings.

A Mexican meal will be served at the April 3 meeting at 7 p.m. Members are asked to bring a side or dessert.

Vice President of Operations and COO Samantha Schulmeier Kelley presented 60-year membership pins to Linda Lambrecht and Tammy Haecker at the February meeting.

It was reported annuity interest rates have increased to 4 percent. Contact agents Judy Schulmeier or Angela Netherton for information. If you know of anyone interested in life insurance, an annuity or attending Camp, provide their information to Judy or Angela and they will contact them. Camp registration will open in March. The lodge’s membership goal for 2023 is 11 new members.

Congratulations to Judy and Angela who were recognized for their fourth quarter sales. Judy was fourth and Angela came in fifth and each earned a bonus. Their hard work is appreciated.

Applications for the lodge scholarship will be available by July 1. Contact one of the lodge officers for more information.

The Annual Shannon Leigh Gaffney Scholarship Fund Golf Tournament will be held Saturday, April 8. Registration deadline is April 4. Get in touch with Carroll Gloor or the Home Office if interested in participating. The lodge will be sponsoring a hole.

Officers elected in November were installed in the months of January and February. Officers were listed in the January article.

Birthday wishes went out to February celebrants Keary Lambrecht and Julie Lyssy.

Kelley Lambrecht won the $25 attendance prize. Split-the-pot winners were James McQuatters, Julie Lyssy and Andra Fore. – Andra Fore

Rosenberg-Richmond Lodge will meet April 10

ROSENBERG – RosenbergRichmond Lodge will meet April 10 at the Civic Center at 7 p.m. Fried chicken will be served, and members are asked to bring a vegetable, salad or dessert.

At the February meeting, a moment of silence was held in memory of Eugene Nesvadba and Rosalie Boyd.

The meeting schedule for 2023 was approved. Remaining meeting dates are June 12 – chicken fried steak or chicken fried chicken, members bring dessert; Aug. 14 – ice cream and game night; Oct. 9 – enchilada casserole, members bring dessert; Dec. 11 – Christmas

party, turkey and dressing will be served, members bring dessert, and a game night will be held.

Door prizes were donated by Margie Krenek and Elaine and Malcolm Krause.

Attendance-prize winners were Lloyd Engelhardt, Adelina Mindieta, Malcolm Krause, Calvin Lamensky and Loyce Anderson.

Forty-two members and guests enjoyed a meal of beef tips and rice and desserts provided by members. Fred Maynard and Calvin Lamensky served, and Margie Krenek gave the blessing.

Reporter

Vice President of Operations and COO Samantha Schulmeier Kelley presented a 60-year membership pin to Linda Lambrecht during the Kirby Lodge meeting in February.

Vice President of Operations and COO Samantha Schulmeier Kelley presented a 60-year membership pin to Tammy Haecker at the Kirby Lodge February meeting. Kirby Lodge recognized birthday celebrants Keary Lambrecht and Julie Lyssy at the February meeting.

Celebrating birthdays at the Rosenberg-Richmond Lodge February meeting were, from left, Malcolm Krause, Elaine Krause, Aimee Barack, Margie Krenek, Eleanor Pavlock, Bill Boyd and W. Lee Hedt.

Harmonia plans memorial service for March 19

SAN ANTONIO – Harmonia Lodge will meet March 19 in the Rathskeller. The lodge will provide corned beef and members are asked to provide side dishes and desserts. A memorial service will be held, and bingo will follow the meeting.

At the February meeting, Board Director Stan Steiger presented 60-year membership pins to Paul Hopper and John

Gianotti. Bill Richards received a 75-year pin.

The report of chili cook-off winners last month was incorrect. Mike Beam won the cookoff and Albert Ranzau placed second.

The 2023 meeting scheduled has been set. Meetings are held in the Home Association’s Rathskeller unless otherwise noted.

April 13 – lodge will provide

fajita/tacos and members provide side dishes and desserts, new members special invitation to Fiesta party; May 11 – lodge will provide brisket, members provide side dishes and desserts; June 8 – lodge will provide pizza, members provide side dishes and desserts, bingo after the meeting; July 13 – meeting in the Home Association Ball Room for 162nd anniversary

Louise Schuetze to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day

SAN ANTONIO – Louise

Schuetze Lodge will celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at the March 13 meeting. Reuben sandwiches will be served.

In February, members voted to donate $100 to the Hermann Sons Youth Camp Shannon Leigh Gaffney Scholarship Fund Golf Tournament in memory of

Alice Naughton. Alice passed on Jan. 25, 2023. Alice was an active member of the lodge for more than 66 years and held many different offices. She will be missed.

Celebrating birthdays were twin sisters Lori Todd and Lisa Robalin.

Lisa won the attendance

award, and Carol Grill won splitthe-pot.

Attendance-prize winners of Valentine candy were Janet Abell, JoAnn Massengale, Carol Grill, Lori Naughton, Lynn Wiede and Lisa Robalin.  Everyone enjoyed chicken tortilla soup made by Carol.

Reporter

meeting/celebration, catered meal, members bring dessert; Aug. 10 – lodge will provide fried chicken, members provide side dishes and desserts, speaker planned; Sept. 14 – honoring past presidents, meet in Home Association Ballroom, lodge will provide spaghetti, members provide desserts, bingo after the meeting; Oct. 12 – lodge will provide German meal,

members provide side dishes and desserts. German band will perform; Nov. 9 – meet in Home Association. Ballroom, traditional turkey dinner will be catered, members provide desserts; Dec. 14 – lodge will provide ham, members provide side dishes and desserts, 2024 officer election and toy collection, bingo after meeting.

– Reporter

Anton Wenzel Lodge will meet March 14

Anton Wenzel Lodge President Edward Elizondo, left, presented the split-the-pot prize to winner Larry Burns at the February meeting. The next meeting is March 14. All members are invited and encouraged to attend. Hamburgers are on the menu and members are asked to bring a covered dish.

Birthdays celebrants Liz Barrientes and Leticia Cantu are pictured at the Anton Wenzel Lodge February meeting with their gifts.

Board Director Stan Steiger, right, presented 60-year membership pins to, from left, Paul Hopper and John Gianotti and a 75-year pin to Bill Richards at the Harmonia Lodge February meeting.

Harmonia Lodge President Rene Kraus, center, presents attendance prizes to Mike Gumpp, left, and Bill Witteman at the February meeting.

John Gianotti, right, receives the split-the-pot winnings from Harmonia Lodge President Rene Kraus at the February meeting.

Attendance-prizes winners of Valentine candy at the Louise Schuetze Lodge meeting in February were, from left, Janet Abell, JoAnn Massengale, Carol Grill, Lori Naughton, Lynn Wiede and Lisa Robalin.

Birthday celebrants at the February meeting of Anton Wenzel Lodge included Diane Jaramillo, left, and Liz Dorrell. Fish was served for the meal and bingo games were played.

BRODIE SANTOS is a member of Cibolo Lodge and is in kindergarten. His favorite food is chicken nuggets and cherries. His favorite TV shows are “Bluey” and “WWE Wrestling.”

Brodie enjoys baseball, wrestling and soccer.

Shining Stars

St. Patricks Crossword

ELLIE SANTOS is a member of Cibolo Lodge and is in pre-kindergarten. Her favorite food is macaroni and cheese and her favorite TV show is “Bluey” and “Blaze.”

Ellie enjoys dance, coloring and helping mom clean.

Registration Form

Become a Shining Star! Send us a photo of your Hermann Sons Life junior member, fill out this form and mail to: Member Benefits, P.O. Box 1941, San Antonio, TX 78297. More information and this fillable form are also available online at hermannsonslife. org. Shining Stars are featured in our newspaper and on our website.

Name:

Birthday:

Home Phone:

Daytime Phone:

Address: City: Zip:

E-mail Address:

Grade in school:

Favorite food:

Pets:

Favorite TV show:

Activities:

It is OK with my parents that I am featured as a “Shining Star” in the Hermann Sons Life newspaper, website and any other advertising publications.

Parent’s Signature:

I am a member of Lodge

Certificate No._______________________________________________________

REGAN MUNN is a member of Paul Vogt Lodge and is in fifth grade. His favorite food is corndogs and favorite TV show is “The Flash.”

Regan enjoys soccer and online games. He has three pet dogs and one cat.

Across

1. Longest river in Ireland

2. Mischievous fairy as shown in picture

6. There is thought to be a pot of gold found at the end of one of these

7. Symbol of Ireland

9. Capital city

11. Month St. Patrick’s Day celebrated

12. Traditional Irish dish of mashed potatoes with cabbage or kale

13. Ireland’s patron saint

Down

1. A traditional dish with lamb or mutton, potatoes, carrots and onions

3. A green gem

4. Popular Irish instrument

5. It is thought a pot of this can be found at the end of a rainbow

7. Patrick is the patron one of these

8. Kissing this stone will improve your flattery skills

10. The Irish are thought to have lots of this, it can be associated with a horseshoe or four leafed clovers

Blarney

Colcannon Dublin

Emerald Gold

Harp

Leprechaun Luck

March

Patrick Rainbow Saint Shamrock

Shannon Stew

St. Patricks Word Search