Vol. 127, No. 3
INSIDE Top sales agents ➤ Pg. 1, 4
Building for sale ➤ Pg. 2
Family Fun Day ➤ Pg. 9
hermannsonslife.org
March 2024
Top-producing agents in 2023 announced SAN ANTONIO – The topproducing Hermann Sons Life agents based on sales performances in 2023 have been announced. The top-producing agent and only agent to qualify for the President’s Club was John Pacini. To achieve President’s Club an agent must generate at least $30,000 in premium income and submit a minimum of 12 applications. This is John’s first time qualifying for the President’s Club. John, HSL regional manager, has made Executive Club twice. A resident of Floresville, he serves as president of the new virtual Greater Texas Lodge. Ten agents qualified for the Executive Club based on their 2023 sales. To achieve Executive Club, agents must submit a
John Pacini minimum of 12 applications and generate at least $12,000 in premium income. The Executive Club qualifiers, listed in order of most premium income generated, are Linda Mattocks, Laurie Steele, Gladys Rowley, Mary K. Seifert, Chris Naughton, Shirley Huebinger,
Reagan Rogiers, Marlin Tanneberger, Annette Roecker and Sandra Jones. Brittney Cross qualified for the Million Dollar Club by selling at least 12 policies worth a combined total of more than $1 million in face value. Recognized for Most New Adult Members was Linda Mattocks. Ana Vasquez was recognized for Last Agent Standing and Most New Adults. Linda is a resident of Carmine and is president of Round Top Lodge. She has made President’s Club three times, Executive Club twice and was the top producer in 2021 and 2022. Laurie is a resident of Devine. She joined the Sales team in 2022. Gladys joined the Sales team in 2022. She retired from the HSL Home Office after 20 years of
service in 2021. A resident of San Antonio, this is her first time to make a club. She is a member of Jourdanton Lodge. Mary is a resident of Weimar and is a member of Schulenburg Lodge. This is her fifth time to make the Executive Club and has previously made the Million Dollar Club. Chris has earned membership in the Executive Club three times. He is a San Antonio resident and is president of Siemering Lodge. Shirley lives in New Braunfels and is a member of New Braunfels Lodge. In her many years as an agent, Shirley has made President’s Club three times, Executive Club 16 times and Million Dollar Club seven times. See, SALES, Pg. 4
Enrollment for 2024 Camp season opens in March! COMFORT – Enrollment for Hermann Sons Life Camp will open in March. This year a brand new 10-night, 11-day coed session will be held at Hilltop Camp. Registration information will be mailed to first-time campers and emailed to returning campers. Junior members who have turned 7 since Sept. 1, 2023, are now Camp eligible. Children ages 8-14 may choose one-week from the six full-week summer sessions or the 10-night session. Junior members who will be 7-9 years of age as of Sept. 1, 2024, are eligible for mini camp if it is their first-time camp experience.
The fee for a full-week session at Riverside Camp for girls or Hilltop Camp for boys is $375 and includes a $20 non-refundable Camp store voucher. The fee for the mini camp session is $220 which includes a nonrefundable $20 Camp store voucher. The fee for the 11-day, 10-night session is $600 which includes a non-refundable $20 Camp store voucher. To help parents and campers with their questions about Camp, Executive Camp Director Ian Brassett will be available to answer questions and discuss all things summer camp through Zoom calls. The calls are scheduled for:
• March 23, 2024 – 9-10 a.m. • April 14, 2024 – 9-10 a.m. Email Ian at ianb@hermannsonslife.org to get on the mailing list for connection details for
the Zoom calls. Information will also be posted on social media. For membership information, contact the Sales Department at 210-527-9113 or 877-437-6266.
Page 2 – Hermann Sons Life – March 2024
HERMANN SONS LIFE USPS 242200 Periodicals Postage Paid at San Antonio, Texas Published Monthly by HERMANN SONS LIFE 515 S. St. Mary’s St. San Antonio, Texas 78205 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Hermann Sons Life, P.O. Box 1941w San Antonio, TX 78297-1941 DIRECTORS Kimberly Krueger, Chair David Wolf, Vice Chair David R. Noak Stan Steiger Laura Tiffin Gerald Ziemnicki OFFICERS President and CEO Robin Czarnek Vice President of Operations and COO Samantha Schulmeier Kelley Vice President of Member Benefits Cecily Kelly Vice President of Sales Teresa Saathoff
A Message from the Board of Directors
Board announces sale of Home Office building After 74-years of servicing members from the Hermann Sons Life property located at 515 South Saint Mary’s Street in downtown San Antonio along the San Antonio River, it has been decided to sell the property and move to a new, smaller location that better fits our needs . The decision is part of our strategic planning to invest in our growth and for our longterm sustainability . The sale will have a significant positive financial impact on our organization and allow us to reinvest the proceeds to better serve our members, agents and staff . It will allow us to continue to provide the robust member benefits our members enjoy today . This will not be the first time relocating the home office, in fact, it will be the third . The original home office, Halle der Hermann Soehne, was located on Villita Street between Navarro and South Presa, it was a two-story rock building . The ground floor was the office, and upstairs the various lodges held their meetings . The building has long since been torn down .
Todd Marquardt Pat Bushman Steven Schellenberg Harry Schriber Ronald Wiatrek Annette Roecker Arthur R. Pfefferkorn
MEMBER BENEFITS COMMITTEE Eulla Krueger Shirley Faske Cheryl Garcia
Bradley Klein Angela Netherton Joyce Kneupper
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT COMMITTEE Judith Schulmeier Gilbert Shelby Pat Klotz
Tommy Daum Robert Prewitt
BUSINESS OPERATIONS COMMITTEE Kerry Ginn Anna Larie Keith Charles Knibbe
Pat Spradling Gary Falkenberg David Lewis
While our artifacts will move with us, Hermann Sons Life’s rich history is not merely confined to buildings and artifacts; it’s a tapestry of experiences and a legacy of strengthening our community . We are excited to continue that rich history with our relocation and look forward to being able to serve our members and community for generations to come . Relocating will be more cost effective and provide an efficient, appropriatelysized space for our home office staff of 27 rather than the current space of more than 33,000 square feet that we presently occupy . During the planning process we will be able to downsize the building space which will be a positive cost savings to our organization . – Chair of the Board Kim Krueger Vice Chair of the Board David Wolf Board Director Gerald Ziemnicki Board Director David Noak Board Director Laura Tiffin Board Director Stan Steiger President & CEO Robin Czarnek
Retired sales agent Pearl Hunt passes away
LAWS COMMITTEE Stephen Prewitt Edward J. Muehlbrad Agnes Dreibrodt Elizabeth Byron Mary Beam Sherry Rakowitz Tammy Jones
At the Grand Lodge Convention in Galveston in 1909, Dr . L .M . Weinfield was elected Grand Physician, and, upon his return to San Antonio and in appreciation to the delegates and Grand Lodge Officers, he gave a dinner for them at the 18 Hotel . At this gathering it was suggested that the San Antonio lodges should have their own hall, and that night a subscription list was passed among all present and about $10,000 was subscribed . Thereupon a committee was formed and a site was selected on Garden Street, which is now South Saint Mary’s Street, and what is now the Home Association Building was erected and dedicated in 1911 . A portion of the building served as Grand Lodge headquarters until the Grand Lodge building at 515 S . Saint Mary’s was dedicated on Jan . 22, 1950 . So, Hermann Sons Life was on Villita Street, then moved to the Home Association Building in 1911, and then to the current home office at 515 South Saint Mary’s Street in 1950 .
Pearl Hunt
CORPUS CHRISTI – Pearl Hunt, a retired Hermann Sons Life agent, passed away on Feb . 18, 2024, in Corpus Christi . Pearl, born Sept . 4, 1931, became a Hermann Sons Life member on Oct . 6, 1975, and was a member of Corpus Christi Lodge . She was instrumental in growing the Corpus Christi
School of Dance program and its operation . She served on the lodge's Finance Committe . Pearl was appointed as a sales agent on Jan . 3, 2006, and retired on Dec . 31, 2020 . She made the Million Dollar Club twice, in 2011 and again in 2012 . Visitation was scheduled
Lodge Reports Boerne . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Brenham . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Cibolo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Columbia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Columbus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Da Costa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Dallas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Deanville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Dunlay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Fort Worth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Gay Hill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Gulf . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Harmonia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Helotes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Hondo Victory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Houston . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Kirby . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Kypfer-Salge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Lockhart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Louise Schuetze . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Macdona . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 McGregor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Mission-Alamo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 New Braunfels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Nierderwald . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Paige . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Pershing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Prinz Solms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Rosenberg-Richmond . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Round Top . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Rutersville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 San Marcos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Schulenburg . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Spring Branch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Stern Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Twin Sisters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Vineta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
for Feb . 21, at Sawyer-George Funeral Home in Corpus Christi from 6-8 p .m . The funeral service was scheduled for Thursday, Feb . 22, at 11:30 a .m . with graveside services to follow at Rose Hill Cemetery . As of press time, the full obituary was unavailable.
Monthly Features 2 3 3 3 7 7 8, 9 11
Board of Directors Message Calendar of Events Employee Spotlight Community Spotlight In Memoriam Memorial Donations Pioneers Howie's Happenings
1, 4 4 5 6
Top sales agents Reasses financial priorities New financial services agent Agent listings
10 20
Camp news Shining Stars
9 9
Matching Funds Program Golf Tournament
Sales News
Youth News New
Community Spotlight
March 2024 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 3
Angels’ Soldiers: ‘May no soldier be forgotten’ SAN ANTONIO – “May no soldier go unloved - May no soldier walk alone - May no soldier be forgotten - Until they all come home™” Soldiers’ Angels is a national 501(c)3 charity. Soldiers’ Angels causes include disaster aid, disaster preparedness and relief services, human services, military and veterans organizations, travelers aid and veterans. As a 501(c)(3) non-profit, nonpartisan organization, Soldiers’ Angels relies entirely on the generosity of supporters. Mission: Soldiers’ Angels is a volunteer-
led 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization providing aid and comfort to the men and women of the United States Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, their
families, and a growing veteran population. Founded by the mother of two American soldiers, Soldiers’ Angels has hundreds of thousands of volunteers assisting veterans, wounded and deployed personnel and their families in a variety of unique and effective ways. Soldiers’ Angels has over 12 virtual teams that provide support to the military and veteran community. From the comfort of their own home, Soldiers’ Angels Team Angels send care packages and letters, bake homemade treats, create unique handmade
Employee Spotlight Liz Napier is Home Office Director of Finance SAN ANTONIO – Liz Napier has been employed at the Hermann Sons Life Home Office since Sept. 22, 2021, and is the Director of Finance. Liz oversees financial reporting, assisting with the preparation of the operating budgets and monitoring the company’s financial health by analyzing financial data. A resident of San Antonio, Liz has a Bachelor of Arts in Finance from the University of Texas at Dallas. She has 30 years’ experience of financial preparation and analysis at financial institutions and industries that helped improve the welfare of the community. Liz’s entire family are Hermann Sons Life members. She is a
Liz Napier member of Pershing Lodge and was recently inducted as corresponding secretary. “I have been married to my best friend who supports me in all my endeavors for 37 years
and we have four wonderful children who love one another,” Liz said. She has started volunteering for a non-profit organization on weekend community projects. “Which is very fulfilling,” she said. “I am blessed with weekly Saturday morning ‘coffee talks’ with my sister and 85-year-old mother who lives with me and my husband.” When asked what she enjoys about working for Hermann Sons Life, she said, “The dedication of all the employees, being part of an organization that serves our members and community and being part of a team that is challenged to find solutions that make a difference.”
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.
APRIL 6 – Shoot for Scholarship fund-raiser hosted by Seguin Lodge at Moyesway Shooting Sports in Kingsbury. Registration begins at 9 a.m. Call 830-832-0724 for information.
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.
APRIL 28 – Bellville Lodge has announced the 21st Annual Fruehling Saengerfest, a German spring singing festival, will be held at Concordia Hall, 952 S. Tesch in Bellville, at 11 a.m. This is an annual non-profit fund-raiser. Call Robert Herridge at 713-582-2461 or email robert1@ herridgeconsultingcom for more information.
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.
items, and more. Through the Deployed Adoptions Team, volunteers even have the ability to adopt a deployed service member and support them through the duration of their deployment with care packages and letters. Soldiers’ Angels also has a robust “boots-on-the-ground” program that supports veterans of all eras across the country. Staff and volunteers visit patients at the VA, coordinate events for patients, personally deliver comfort items, and much more. Soldiers’ Angels also provides food assistance to homeless, atrisk, and low-income veterans across the country. Through their Hunger Relief Program, the organization hosts Veteran Mobile Food Distributions in a growing number of cities. The events provide an average of 50 pounds
of food to more than 200 veterans. There are many ways to give – volunteer, give monetary donations, fund-raise, matching gifts, planned giving, corporate engagement, non-cash gifts such as gift cards, household items, children’s books, candy, snacks, furniture, computers and other non-monetary items or participation in special campaigns. Learn more about Soldiers’ Angels and ways to help at soldiersangels.org. The local office is located at 2895 NE Loop 410, Suite 107 in San Antonio. The phone number is 210-629-0020. – Information from soldiersangels.org Send suggestions for Community Spotlight features to elaines@ hermannsonslife.org or call 210226-9261, ext. 279.
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 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 Reports and photos can also be submitted online at hermannsonslife.org under Member Benefits, Officer Forms The report deadline is the 10th of each month. For example, for the January issue, the deadline is Dec. 10. 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.
Page 4 – Hermann Sons Life – March 2024
Sales
Spring a good time to reassess financial priorities By TERESA SAATHOFF Vice President of Sales During the month of February, we provided three workshops for our agents that covered everything from product comparisons, annuity changes (new annuities earning 5% with a guarantee of 2.75%), application changes, underwriting and the benefit of attending local lodge meetings. If you do not have an agent attending your lodge meetings, please invite them. Our agents are ready to assist members with their insurance, annuity and Medicare needs. Spring is more than just a season of flowers and warmer temperatures; it is a time to reassess and realign your financial priorities. By reviewing your life insurance needs during this season, you can ensure
your coverage adequately protects your loved ones and provides peace of mind for the future. Don’t wait for another season to pass to take proactive steps to safeguard your family’s financial future. As far as actual spring cleaning goes, when is the last time you updated your beneficiaries, phone number or address? With so many people using cell phones and discontinuing their land lines, we have no way to get updated phone numbers. We often see death claims come in and their beneficiaries have never been updated which causes a lot of paperwork and delays when the beneficiary for an 80-year-old member is listed as the parent. Please call our office or your agent to make sure your policy information is up to date.
This past Friday, I stopped on my way out of town to have lunch with Milton Ihlo at the Buckner Senior Living Community in Austin. Milton has been a proud Hermann Sons Life member since 1949 and serves as the lodge financial secretary and treasurer. I asked Mr. Ihlo if he has considered transferring to a closer lodge instead of driving over an hour to Paige, but his loyalty belongs to Paige Lodge where his own dad served as the lodge president for many years. I was treated to a very elaborate lunch in the dining room, and I enjoyed spending time with Mr. Ihlo’s friends, Jack, Dorothy, Jerry and Ellen. Senior living has some perks and I wish I could have stayed for happy hour and a movie in their incredible onsite movie theater.
Vice President of Sales Teresa Saathoff enjoyed a recent visit with Paige Lodge member Milton Ihlo at the Buckner Senior Living Community in Austin.
Linda Mattocks
Laurie Steele
Gladys Rowley
Mary K. Seifert
Chris Naughton
Shirley Huebinger
Reagan Rogiers
Marlin Tanneberger
Annette Roecker
Sandra Jones
Britney Cross
Ana Vasquez
Sales Department announces 2023 top-selling agents Cont'd from Pg. 1 Reagan resides in Castroville and is a member of Castroville Lodge. She joined the Sales team in 2021. Marlin resides in La Vernia and is a member of La Vernia Lodge. With more than 40 years selling
insurance, he has made President’s Club 12 times, Executive Club 11 times and Million Dollar Club five times. Annette resides in Kingsbury and has been a member of Seguin Lodge for more than 50 years. She has made Executive Club three times.
Sandra lives in Burleson and is a member of Fort Worth Lodge. Ana is a resident of San Antonio and is the HSL Compliance Director. She is a member of Boerne Lodge. “I am so proud of these hardworking agents,” Vice President of Sales Teresa Saathoff said.
“It’s wonderful to see all their hard work rewarded. I appreciate their dedication to helping Hermann Sons Life grow.” A new Grand President’s Club has replaced the Agent Banquet. Agents achieving Grand President’s Club membership will earn a cruise for two.
Agents who do not qualify for Grand President’s Club can still earn bonuses by qualifying for the President, Executive and Million Dollar clubs. “I am looking forward to awarding a cruise to our first qualifier of the new Grand President’s Club in 2024,” Teresa said.
March 2024 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 5
Nurturing heart health: understanding Medicare benefits and resources By LIZETTE A. KOWALSKI Senior Health Advisor Heart health is a vital aspect of overall well-being, impacting longevity and quality of life. As we age, the importance of maintaining a healthy heart becomes increasingly significant. Thankfully, for individuals aged 65 and older in the United States, Medicare offers various resources and benefits to support heart health. In this article, we’ll delve into the importance of heart health for seniors and explore the Medicare benefits and resources available to help manage and prevent cardiovascular conditions. The Importance of heart health for seniors: As individuals age, the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases such as heart disease, hypertension, and stroke increases. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), heart disease remains the leading cause of death among adults aged 65 and older in the United States. Factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, obesity, diabetes, and a sedentary lifestyle contribute to
the prevalence of heart-related ailments in this demographic. Maintaining heart health is not only essential for longevity but also for preserving quality of life. A healthy heart enables individuals to remain active, independent, and engaged in daily activities. Moreover, it reduces the risk of experiencing debilitating conditions that can significantly impact one’s wellbeing and independence. Understanding Medicare benefits for heart health: Medicare, the federal health insurance program for individuals aged 65 and older, provides coverage for a range of services aimed at promoting heart health, managing cardiovascular conditions, and preventing complications. Here are some key Medicare benefits related to heart health: 1. Cardiovascular Screenings: Medicare covers cardiovascular screenings to assess the risk of developing heart disease and detect existing conditions early. These screenings may include blood pressure checks, cholesterol level tests, and electrocardiograms (ECGs). 2. Preventive Services:
Medicare offers coverage for various preventive services related to heart health, such as counseling on diet and exercise, obesity screening and counseling, and smoking cessation programs. These services are crucial for managing risk factors and preventing the onset or progression of cardiovascular diseases. 3. Heart Disease Management Programs: Medicare Advantage plans may offer specialized disease management programs for individuals with heart disease. These programs often include education, monitoring, and support to help patients manage their condition effectively and improve outcomes. 4. Cardiac Rehabilitation: Medicare provides coverage for cardiac rehabilitation programs for eligible beneficiaries who have experienced a heart attack, undergone heart surgery, or received a diagnosis of heart failure or certain other cardiovascular conditions. These programs typically include exercise training, education, and counseling to promote recovery and reduce the risk of future cardiac events.
5. Prescription Drug Coverage: Medicare Part D offers prescription drug coverage, including medications commonly prescribed for managing cardiovascular conditions such as hypertension, high cholesterol, and heart failure. Having access to affordable medications is crucial for seniors with heart health needs. Navigating Medicare benefits: Understanding Medicare coverage and accessing available benefits can sometimes be challenging for seniors and their caregivers. Here are some tips for navigating Medicare benefits for heart health: 1. Review Your Coverage: Take the time to review your Medicare coverage and understand what services and benefits are included. You can do this by reviewing your Medicare Summary Notice or contacting Medicare directly for assistance. 2. Talk to Your Healthcare Provider: Consult with your healthcare provider to assess your heart health needs and determine which Medicarecovered services and programs are appropriate for you. Your
doctor can help you develop a personalized plan for managing and improving your heart health. 3. Take Advantage of Preventive Services: Make use of Medicarecovered preventive services such as cardiovascular screenings, counseling, and preventive care visits to stay proactive about your heart health. 4. Explore Medicare Advantage Plans: Consider enrolling in a Medicare Advantage plan that offers additional benefits and resources for heart health, such as disease management programs and wellness initiatives. Conclusion: Maintaining heart health is crucial for seniors to enjoy a fulfilling and active lifestyle as they age. Medicare provides valuable resources and benefits to support heart health, including screenings, preventive services, disease management programs, and prescription drug coverage. By understanding and utilizing these Medicare benefits, seniors can take proactive steps to manage their heart health and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, ultimately enhancing their overall well-being and quality of life.
Gonzales Lodge recommender wins gift card Guerrero fills new Senior The Sales Department is recognizing two more
recommenders for the month of January. Thank you to our Hermann Sons Life lodges and members for continuing to recommend new members. The winner of a gift card for January is Aubrey Lindemann of Gonzales Lodge. Congratulations to the following Recommenders: Recommender Aubrey Lindemann, Gonzales (2) James Stolte Jr., New Braunfels
Agent Annette Roecker Shirley Huebinger
NOW APPOINTING LICENSED AGENTS PERSONALIZED TRAINING AND MENTORING UNLIMITED EARNING POTENTIAL COMPETITIVE COMMISSIONS QUARTERLY BONUSES COMMUNITY SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES ENGAGING PROGRAMS
FOR INFORMATION, CALL JOHN PACINI AT 210-844-7182 OR CURTIS DISHMAN AT 281-414-8395
Financial Services position SAN ANTONIO – The Hermann Sons Life Sales Department announces David Guerrero has been hired for the new position of Senior Financial Services Agent. David, a resident of San Antonio, has been a Medicare agent since 2013. He began his career with Humana in the telephone sales department. “It wasn’t long before I discovered my calling was helping people face to face,” he said. “Building relationships with the goal to provide correct information to the member is the most important part of the job.” “Some of David’s responsibilities will be to work orphaned member lists, help with IPRs and conversions as well as sell life insurance, annuities and Medicare,” Vice President of
David Guerrero Sales Teresa Saathoff said. “David brings a wealth of Medicare knowledge and experience along with his existing book of business.” David said he enjoys spending time with his 7-year-old grandson, Vincent. “He loves sports and is a great artist just like me – but he has a lot more energy than I do!”
Page 6 – Hermann Sons Life – March 2024
Agents Directory (alphabetized by area) Dallas Mark Mundy • 214-202-8442 Gilbert Shelby • 214-289-1815
Adkins Roxy Pruski • 210-218-6204 Alice Paula Gebert • 361-701-7527
Devine Laurie Steele • 210-414-4755 Cynthia Sultenfuss • 210-219-6409 Robin Sultenfuss • 210-854-4443
Atascosa Eulla Krueger • 210-863-0546 Austin Shannon Caldwell • 830-837-4535 Shirley Kuhen Faske • 512-789-3975 Brad Klein, FIC • 512-497-0678 Sean Warren • 512-593-0393
El Campo Hector Gutierrez • 979-543-2709
Bernardo/Columbus Terrel Maertz • -979-732-1727
Floresville Gladys Rowley • 210-219-6964 Lynn Wiede • 210-289-1378
Boerne/San Antonio Pamela Poulk • 210-753-2626 Ana Vasquez • 210-569-4660
Fayetteville Linda Mattocks • 512-736-9988
Fort Worth Sandra Jones, FIC • 817-781-7155
Brenham Gary Falkenberg, FICF • 713-466-6069
Fredericksburg Todd Bierschwale • 830-997-2130
Bulverde Debbie Allen • 210-326-9753 Clif Klabunde, FIC • 210-219-6142 John E. Moore Jr. • 210-621-7842 Lisa Dishman • 281-744-3813
Galveston Teri Walston • 832-620-5405
Cibolo/Schertz Tracy Campos • 210-388-2779 Judith Schulmeier, FIC • 210-667-1938 Clifton Sterling Goolsby • 254-709-5764 Converse Dan Boenig • 210-705-1815 Roxy Pruski • 210-218-6204 Corpus Christi Paula Gebert • 361-701-7527 Coupland Brad Klein, FIC • 512-497-0678 Cuero Tracy Fuchs • 361-564-2250 Wayne Tiffin • 361-564-8144 Laura Tiffin • 361-564-8141
Round Top Linda Mattocks • 512-736-9988
Katy Terrel Maertz • 979-732-1727
Rutersville Linda Mattocks • 512-736-9988 Kyle Hartmann • 979-639-1439
Kirby Angela Netherton • 210-831-1293 La Grange Linda Mattocks • 512-736-9988 Kyle Hartmann • 979-639-1439 La Vernia Marlin Tanneberger, FIC • 210-827-7229 Roxy Pruski • 210-218-6204 League City Joseph Pugh • 281-844-8931 Teri Walston • 832-620-5405 Leander Sean Warren • 512-593-0393 Lockhart Janice Kuhen • 512-393-1431
Georgetown Brad Klein, FIC • 512-497-0678 Sean Warren • 512-593-0393
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
Jourdanton Laurie Steele • 210-414-4755
Giddings Linda Mattocks • 512-736-9988 Goliad Tracy Fuchs • 361-550-2003 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 Debbie Payne • 830-741-0642 Houston Gary Falkenberg, FICF • 713-466-6069 Hector Gutierrez • 979-543-2709 Terrel Maertz • 979-732-1727 Joseph Pugh • 281-844-8931 Teri Walston • 832-620-5405 Gerald Ziemnicki • 713-622-9001
Marion Lorene Bielke, FIC • 830-420-2380 830-305-6900 (cell) Moulton Judith Schulmeier, FIC • 210-667-1938 Niederwald Shirley Kuhen Faske • 512-789-3975 New Braunfels Becki Lucas • 361-550-9358 Britney Cross • 281-450-6291 Brenda Heulitt • 830-832-1674 Shirley Huebinger • 830-629-1196 Clif Klabunde, FIC • 210-219-6142 Krystal Wilson • 623-698-8348 Garrett Czarnek • 210-315-8152 Orange Grove Paula Gebert • 361-701-7527 Paige Linda Mattocks • 512-736-9988 Port Lavaca Nancy Annette Walraven • 361-237-1757 Rosenberg-Richmond Gary Falkenberg, FICF • 713-466-6069
San Antonio Debbie Allen • 210-326-9753 Rayna Sue Irwin • 210-710-7038 Clif Klabunde, FIC • 210-219-6142 Chris Naughton • 210-365-2009 Angela Netherton • 210-831-1293 Roxy Pruski • 210-218-6204 Henry Rodriguez • 210-548-2292 Gladys Rowley • 210-219-6964 John E. Moore Jr. • 210-621-7842 Sylvia Zapata • 210-426-4481 Lisa Dishman • 281-744-3813 David Guerrero Jr. • 210-800-6758 San Marcos Allen Caldwell • 830-237-3217 Shirley Kuhen Faske • 512-789-3975 Janice Kuhen • 512-393-1431 Krystal Wilson • 623-698-8348 Shannon Caldwell • 830-837-4535 Seguin Annette D. Roecker • 830-832-0724 Roxy Pruski • 210-218-6204 Shiner Jillian Leigh McDonald • 361-594-2500 Jenny Chumchal Popp • 361-293-1329 Spring Branch Debbie Allen • 210-326-9753 John E. Moore Jr. • 210-621-7842 Lisa Dishman • 281-744-3813 Stockdale Ronald Wiatrek • 210-771-4354 Victoria Jason Hybner • 361-652-6924 Waxahachie Mark Mundy • 214-202-8442 Wimberley Shannon Caldwell • 830-837-4535 Allen Caldwell • 830-237-3217 Yorktown Judy Wolf • 361-564-2452
Sales Department 210-527-9113 • 877-437-6266 • 888-839-7667 Vice President of Sales Teresa Saathoff 210-892-0292 teresas@hermannsonslife.org
Compliance Director Ana Vasquez, FLMI, AIRC, FIC 210-226-9261, ext. 235 anav@hermannsonslife.org
Kathryn Mutchler Administrative Assistant 210-226-9261, ext. 242 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
March 2024 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 7
In Memoriam of Our Deceased Members SHIRLEY A. RUBINSTEIN Converse Lodge Died Jan. 20, 2019 • Age 74
RICHARD G. DENNEHY JR. Harmonia Lodge Died Aug. 24, 2023 • Age 84
JEROME J. ARNOLD Corpus Christi Lodge Died Oct. 19, 2023 • Age 87
CLARENCE P. MUELLER Shelby Lodge Died Dec. 1, 2023 • Age 76
CHARLES L. BELOHLAVEK Kirby Lodge Died Dec. 17, 2023 • Age 65
WILLIAM L. SIMPSON SR. Greater Texas Lodge Died Aug. 25, 2020 • Age 94
GLENN DERVELOY Comfort Lodge Died Aug. 24, 2023 • Age 89
MAXINE H. PRICE Jackson County Lodge Died Oct. 19, 2023 • Age 83
EARL LUEDEKER McGregor Lodge Died Dec. 2, 2023 • Age 92
ANNA D. KUSS Roscoe Lodge Died Dec. 19, 2023 • Age 97
MARCIA K. WALTERS Fort Worth Lodge Died April 4, 2021 • Age 68
DOROTHY A. M. GROBE Vineta Lodge Died Sept. 1, 2023 • Age 98
JIMMIE LAFFERE Deanville Lodge Died Oct. 25, 2023 • Age 91
CHARLES B. WEEKS Jourdanton Lodge Died Dec. 4, 2023 • Age 76
PATRICK M. FARRELL Siemering Lodge Died Dec. 19, 2023 • Age 71
E. W. ATZENHOFFER San Patricio County Lodge Died Feb. 26, 2022 • Age 88
LORRAINE E. GRIFFIN Castroville Lodge Died Sept. 6, 2023 • Age 93
DOROTHY L. KALLIES Seguin Lodge Died Oct. 28, 2023 • Age 89
THOMAS G. ALLISON Seguin Lodge Died Dec. 5, 2023 • Age 85
THOMAS M. BARCAK New Bielau Lodge Died Dec. 21, 2023 • Age 69
DOROTHY M. TEGGEMAN Taylor Lodge Died March 9, 2022 • Age 94
SUSAN PANKRATZ Paul Vogt Lodge Died Sept. 8, 2023 • Age 57
TERRY E. DRUSCHKE Brenham Lodge Died Nov. 3, 2023 • Age 87
CHARLES W. TIEKEN Houston Lodge Died Dec. 6, 2023 • Age 89
DORIS J. LUETGE Shelby Lodge Died Dec. 23, 2023 • Age 87
ROSA L. SMITH Marion Lodge Died Aug. 27, 2022 • Age 91
MICHAEL C. PERRY Corpus Christi Lodge Died Sept. 24, 2023 • Age 78
NOLAN JONAS Karnes City Lodge Died Nov. 6, 2023 • Age 82
CASSANDRA WELTNER Pershing Lodge Died Dec. 7, 2023 • Age 74
EDWARD P. HENK Seguin Lodge Died Dec. 26, 2023 • Age 91
CONSTANCE G. SCHULZ Gulf Lodge Died March 20, 2023 • Age 101
ROGER A. WUEST Siemering Lodge Died Sept. 28, 2023 • Age 81
EVELYN F. MIKULIN Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge Died Nov. 11, 2023 • Age 90
MARY J. SCHESSENHAGEN Vineta Lodge Died Dec. 8, 2023 • Age 96
GLADYS M. L. LYSSY Louise Schuetze Lodge Died Dec. 28, 2023 • Age 95
SANDRA K. LIVINGSTON Greater Texas Lodge Died May 1, 2023 • Age 66
JO ANN WICKER Louise Schuetze Lodge Died Sept. 29, 2023 • Age 89
PATRICIA D. CULAK Paul Vogt Lodge Died Nov. 13, 2023 • Age 69
SHIRLEY J. SEEWALD Comfort Lodge Died Dec. 11, 2023 • Age 82
ROBERT B. WESTBROOK Pershing Lodge Died Dec. 29, 2023 • Age 91
BEN A. WEBER Harmonia Lodge Died June 1, 2023 • Age 69
KOLBY L. TAYLOR New Braunfels Lodge Died Sept. 29, 2023• Age 20
THOMAS E. GUENTZEL Coupland Lodge Died Nov. 16, 2023 • Age 79
ROY L. GANN La Grange Lodge Died Dec. 11, 2023 • Age 75
JAMES E. WOLF III Yorktown Lodge Died Dec. 29, 2023 • Age 80
LARRY E. SHIMEK Rutersville Lodge Died June 3, 2023 • Age 80
BETTY JO SCHLADOER Comfort Lodge Died Oct. 6, 2023 • Age 87
LUCILLE A. WAGNER Paige Lodge Died Nov. 16, 2023 • Age 75
ELROY J. WICK New Bielau Lodge Died 12, 2023 • Age 79
GEORGE R. VERNOR Pershing Lodge Died Jan. 2, 2024 • Age 79
FELICITAS G. VASQUEZ Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge Died June 5, 2023 • Age 88
JAMES C. HOPKINS JR. Rosenberg Richmond Lodge Died Oct. 9, 2023 • Age 85
LESLIE R. TALLEY Siemering Lodge Died Nov. 21, 2023 • Age 92
VIRGIL H. FELLER Paul Vogt Lodge Died Dec. 13, 2023 • Age 97
RODNEY J. MORGAN Siemering Lodge Died Jan. 5, 2024 • Age 68
TEIRANY ANDERSON Cibolo Lodge Died July 18, 2023 • Age 21
FRANCES G. WOODCOCK Louise Schuetze Lodge Died Oct. 15, 2023 • Age 90
RUDOLPH A. OLFERS JR. Fredericksburg Lodge Died Nov. 23, 2023 • Age 95
DONALD L. SCHAEPER Waco Robinson Lodge Died Dec. 13, 2023 • Age 93
LYDIA S. LANE Gulf Lodge Died Aug. 18, 2023 • Age 77
WILEY S. MANGOLD Castroville Lodge Died Oct. 18, 2023 • Age 87
ROY L. DUEITT Burton Lodge Died Nov. 24, 2023 • Age 91
SANDRA D. GREEN Corpus Christi Lodge Died Aug. 23, 2023 • Age 77
ALLEN J. BOEHME Dunlay Lodge Died Oct. 18, 2023 • Age 65
JOSHUA I. MAINZ Hochheim-Prairie Lodge Died Dec. 1, 2023 • Age 42
MEMORIAL DONATION FORM Name of Deceased:
Please print
Acknowledgement from Retirement Home
Camp
Retirement Home Scholarship Fund
Camp Scholarship Fund Grief Support Session at Camp
to go to: Name:
Please print
Address:
ROY L. DUEITT Donor: Burton Lodge
VIRGINIA R. ROTHERMEL Donor: Brenham Lodge
WILEY M. SANDERS JR. Donor: La Vernia Lodge
To make donations:
City, State, Zip: Date:
JAMES FRITSCHE ESTHER SHUPAK JOE SHUPAK VIOLA BARTEK ROBERT WIEDERHOLD ANTONE SCHRADER CAROL WIEDERHOLD JIMMY LAFFERE RUDDIES ZWERNEMANN WILLIE DURHAM Donor: Deanville Lodge STANLEY KLEKAR Donor: Gay Hill Lodge
City, State, Zip: Donor:
Donations
Donations to the Home Fund in Memory of:
Donations to the Camp Memorial Fund in Memory of:
Please print
Address:
The names of deceased members are listed on this page only after a death claim has been filed.
Amount: $ Clip and mail with your memorial contribution to: Hermann Sons Life Home Office, P.O. Box 1941, San Antonio, TX 78297-1941.
HSL Youth Camp Shannon Gaffney Retirement Home Scholarship Fund Scholarship Fund P.O. Box 689 288 Rio Ranchero Comfort TX 78013 Pipe Creek, TX 78063 Grief Camp, Memorials for Retirement Home and Camp can be mailed to the Home Office.
Page 8 – Hermann Sons Life – March 2024
80 Years
Pioneers SHERRY D. GLOOR GAIL A. SHAHAN Weesatche Lodge
PEGGY R. ZAPALAC Coupland Lodge
CHERYL L. CLARK BECKY O. DELRIO ALLEN J. HANSLIK DOUGLAS D. HANSLIK COLETTE G. KAISER ROY K. OTHOLD DIANA E. RIPPSTEIN Da Costa Lodge
DORIS D. SMITH Corpus Christi Lodge
75 Years
BYRON B. BACA Yorktown Lodge
ELBERTENE B. JOHNSON INEZ M. KOPPLIN RONALD A. MOSSBARGER THOMAS J. WEBER Pershing Lodge
ANTHONY H. DZIERZANOWSKI JR. ROBERT D. DZIERZANOWSKI KEITH A. LUBIANSKI Harmonia Lodge
60 Years
BARBARA C. HEINEN Fredericksburg Lodge
ELVA J. COCHRAN Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge
ROBERT C. CURRY Anton Wenzel Lodge
FRANKIE GAERTNER GAY F. POWERS Plum Lodge
GEO M. ARA JR. Gonzales Lodge
FRANK A. WEHMEYER JR. Helotes Lodge
HERBERT W. HILBIG JR. Harmonia Lodge
NELSON T. FELDER Burton Lodge
MICHAEL W. BERGER JENNIFER M. MOORE VICTOR C. SCHROEDER DELLYN J. STAVINOHA Schulenburg Lodge
JENNIFER L. CRAIGHEAD Helotes Lodge
HAROLD M. LEINWEBER Harmonia Lodge
LEANN HARLAN Brunhilde Lodge
PAUL H. MCCAIN Columbia Lodge
DOUGLAS O. CHRISTMAS Seguin Lodge
BRYAN N. BENDELE Hondo Lodge
JOYCE M. BAKER Hochheim-Prairie Lodge
FRANCES A. HENKE Hochheim-Prairie Lodge CORNELL R. SAATHOFF Hondo Lodge
GREGORY L. CORDES Siemering Lodge
JOSEPH W. WOOTAN La Vernia Lodge
JAMES S. WHITEHEAD Hondo Lodge
LORI A. VOIGT Comfort Lodge
WILLFLOYD P. STREY La Vernia Lodge
LANELL J. FLOERKE Hondo Victory Lodge
EVA E. DAY MICHAEL G. MUELLER Dallas Lodge
COLETTE D. HARDIN DAVID N. PAPE Spring Branch Lodge
CARRIE B. DELEMOS ABRAHAM SCHLICHTING Laubach Lodge
CAROL J. SELZER Moulton Lodge
LA NELL C. BUNDICK LOU E. SMITH DONALD A. THERIOT Houston Lodge
JOSEPH M. MILLER Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge
BOYD W. VOGES Waco-Robinson Lodge
BRENDA I. SCHMIDT Louise Schuetze Lodge
CAROL D. ODELL MARY H. SNYDER Niederwald Lodge GLENN R. SCHAEFER Nordheim Lodge MILTON R. IHLO GLORIA J. LAWRENCE OTIS R. MARBURGER Paige Lodge JUDITH A. PATE Schulenburg Lodge JOYCE A. URBANSKI Seguin Lodge JUDY L. BRYANT FRONIE K. SHELTON Shiner Lodge JAMES R. POENISCH Twin Sisters Lodge DORCAS E. COLLARD Vineta Lodge
70 Years
DENIS J. SONNEN Anton Wenzel Lodge DIANA L. SOAT Comfort Lodge NANCY J. KILGORE Corpus Christi Lodge
MILTON R. PANKAU Laubach Lodge
EDWARD W. PETERS PEGGY S. POENITZSCH Ellinger Lodge
BOBBIE L. BARNETT Lockhart Lodge
FRANK CORATTI JR. ERIN E. S. REEH Fredericksburg Lodge
DEBORAH L. MCBRIDE CHERYL R. MEREDITH ELIZABETH J. NAUGHTON MARY L. NAUGHTON Louise Schuetze Lodge
EARNEST L. BROUGHTON WILLIAM T. LUKE Greater Texas Lodge
SHIRLEY SCHWARZLOSE New Braunfels Lodge
MARGOT A. ALFORD Gulf Lodge
STEVEN R. KOEHLER Pershing Lodge
BRYAN E. SLOMCHINSKI LEO A. ZVONEK JR. Harmonia Lodge
DAVID C. WESSELS Rutersville Lodge
MICHAEL J. SAATHOFF Hondo Lodge
RODNEY L. GEBERT TOMMY G. PAUSEWANG Schwertner Lodge
SANDRA L. FASELER Hondo Victory Lodge
ARLON D. GREINER JANIECE R. SCHWARZKOPF Seguin Lodge BIRDIE L. BRUEMMER Spring Branch Lodge GAIL L. GIFFORD FLORENCE M. KAHLICH BARBARA L. RIOS Vineta Lodge
JANET M. HADASH ROSANNA LANCE Louise Schuetze Lodge
50 Years
RONALD W. BROWN Anton Wenzel Lodge DAWNA S. BERNE Brunhilde Lodge JOE S. STRATTA Bryan Lodge LESLEY M. BIPPERT CHERRYL L. WERNETTE Castroville Lodge CARL J. BLANK Cuero Family Lodge CHRISTI L. LESCHBER MATTHEW W. LESCHBER SHARON R. LESCHBER Coupland Lodge CHRISTI L. LAMBERT JOYCE A. SMITH Da Costa Lodge LINDA J. SCHOLZ Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge
ROBERT D. ALLEN Mission-Alamo Lodge
APRIL E. STAUDT Fredericksburg Lodge
BRENDA K. KEILY Niederwald Lodge
CELINE GOUVERNEUR Greater Texas Lodge
JAMES G. RHODES Old Glory Lodge
RANDY L. HODDE Gay Hill Lodge
JON C. IVY Haskell Lodge
OTTO R. KOLIBA Hochheim-Prairie Lodge
CHARLES W. RUST Marion Lodge WENDY M. BRETON CAROL A. LAKIN SCOTT R. THORMANN Mission-Alamo Lodge DEANA J. FISCHER CHRISTINE MARTINEZ New Braunfels Lodge JULIE M. HOFF STACY L. HOFF SUSAN L. HOFF Nordheim Lodge JENNIFER R. STIEWERT Paige Lodge JODY C. JONES Paul Vogt Lodge KATHRYN A. BELZ BARBARA A. BORTH TREVOR E. BORTH TRICIA K. MCINTYRE JANET M.SIMS KARLEEN M. SIMS MARY E. SIMS PAUL M. SIMS ROBERT P. SIMS Pershing Lodge DANA L. GAUVEY CINDY M. THOMPSON Priddy Lodge See PIONEERS, Pg. 9
March 2024 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 9
Howie’s Happenings
Mischievious trio still busy digging muddy holes By ROBIN CZARNEK President and CEO Well, there is a Part Two to last month’s story. Last month, when I said Krypto was above the fray in getting muddy, I spoke too soon. I am afraid Howie and Beau were a bad influence on him. Krypto jumped in and joined Howie and Beau in the hole digging, muddy fun. All three of the boys were covered in mud and we were forced to give them immediate baths. We were very thankful that Garrett hadn’t moved out yet. With our only showers/bathtubs being upstairs and Garrett being the only one whose back can handle lifting 80-pound dogs he had the privilege of carrying them upstairs. We were also thankful Garrett and Haley stepped up to bathe all three in exchange for some breakfast tacos. Pretty sure Dave and I got the better end of that trade! Dave and I are officially empty nesters again as the kids found
their home and moved out. The house was momentarily quieter with Krypto moving out, but Howie and Beau have upped their playing game. They are running around like maniacs, and they can be heard playing upstairs even in the garage. They sound like they’re renovating the house, but they are sure having a ball. With Garrett and Haley moving out, they knew Krypto would be sad to not have playmates, so he now has a little brother, Oakley. He is absolutely adorable, though he may give Garrett and Haley a run for their money as he is quite a mischievous one and unlike Krypto, enjoys eating and has already climbed into the dog food container. Howie and Beau wanted to share their friend, Pumpkin, with you. While we did feature Pumpkin last month, she hasn’t been getting much attention. She is one special little lady who would make someone an amazing companion. We felt we needed to do
Brotherly love! Howie, right, and Beau have been keeping up with their muddy shenanigans which requires proper rest.
Krypto has moved out of his “grandparents” home and has a new brother, Oakley, to keep him company in his new home.
Sweet Pumpkin is still in need of a ‘furever’ home. She is currently at the Heart of Texas SPCA/ HOT K9 Rescue.
a repeat for her. Pumpkin is just one of the many adorable pups of all kinds located at Heart of Texas SPCA/ HOT K9 Rescue. Pumpkin is absolutely precious and really loves to play and has been enjoying playing fetch. If you’re interested in meeting
any of the pups at HOTK9 or for more information, please email: hotk9rescue@yahoo.com to schedule a time to meet them. For more information and to view all of the amazing dogs available for adoption, please check out Heart of Texas SPCA / HOTK9 Rescue on
Facebook orat www.heartoftexasspca.com. You’ll also be able to see their adoption events where you can meet many of their precious pups. Keep in mind that Heart of Texas SPCA/HOT K9 Rescue is a volunteer run organization, so email is best.
Family Fun Day June 22! Matching Funds form due by March 31 SAN ANTONIO – All members are invited to the annual Hermann Sons Life Family Fun Day at Six Flags Fiesta Texas on June 22, 2024. As always, Future Club-Shining Stars (junior members 17 and younger) who are registered by April 2024 will be admitted free of charge. The registration form is available Cont’d from Pg. 8
monthly in the Hermann Sons Life newspaper back page and on our website, hermannsonslife.org – Member Benefits. Discounted tickets will be available to all other members. Tickets include parking, admission and a meal. The meal will be served at 3 p.m. Tickets sales will open in mid-April. Stay tuned for more details!
Pioneers
50 Years
DUSTIN D. GASS Spring Branch Lodge
CHRISTINE D. MEANS Prinz Solms Lodge
DANNY L. ACKER Twin Sisters Lodge
CATHERINE A. WEICHOLD Rosenberg-Richmond Lodge
LORETTA A. NUSSMAN Waco-Robinson Lodge
MICHEAL T. SCHEEL ELEASE D. TAYLOR Seguin Lodge
MONROE A. ARMSTRONG Womack Lodge
SAN ANTONIO – A reminder to lodges that the Matching Funds Reservation Form is due by March 31, 2024, and should be submitted to the Member Benefits Department. Forms are available in the Lodge Planner and on the website at hermannsonslife.org – Member Benefits – Officer Forms. The Matching Funds Program rewards lodges for their fundraising efforts on behalf of community organizations. Lodges can host a Matching Funds event or can choose to sponsor an event held by a nonprofit organization. The Home Of-
fice will reimburse the lodge half but no more than $500 for the sponsorship. The Home Office will pay the sponsorship directly to the organization. The sponsorship must be for a non-profit organization as long as there is acknowledgement (the lodge’s name advertised/printed as a sponsor, such as in signage etc.). The benefiting organization cannot be a religious organization or an affiliate of a religious organization. Acceptable organizations include 501c3 non-profits, 501c6: Business association such as a chamber of commerce or a 501c9,
Answers for puzzles on Pg. 20 Down 1. Orange 2. Ireland 3. Clover 4. March
6. Rainbow 8. Dublin Across 5. Leprechaun
7. Pinched 9. Gold 10. Green
such as a veterans’ organization. As of 2020, lodges are required to submit a W-9 form from the chosen recipient organization. Most organizations have this form on file and a copy just need be requested. If a blank form is needed, call 800-234-4124, ext. 238 or email leonnia@hermannsonslife. org. All projects must be approved by the Home Office. The lodge will be notified by letter after April 16. For all requirements and other information, see “Matching Funds Program” in the Lodge Planner.
Page 10 – Hermann Sons Life – March 2024
Director reviews the true value of Camp By IAN BRASSETT Executive Camp Director Camp is just around the corner. We’ll be opening enrollment soon and are very excited about providing our junior members with the best possible summer camp experience available. Many people discuss the value of camp in terms of dollars and cents. That is unfortunate. The value of Hermann Sons Life Camp is so much more. The $375 dollars represents value that simply cannot be beat for one week anywhere in camping. Look around. We provide our campers an activity packed, funfilled summer camp program with a low camper to staff ratio, great food and an incredible facility. While we acknowledge the Riverside facility is looking worn in places, I will gladly stand our program up to any camps. It is increasingly more difficult to provide this value to our junior members. We’re all feeling financial effects of an uncertain economy. The average cost of providing camp has gone up over 12 percent year on year. It is difficult to sustain (especially when you need to replaster a 200,000-gallon swimming pool). If your child had a blast last summer, tell your friends. If your child had a blast last summer, come for a second week. If your child has a blast last summer, can you help donate a little extra? The true value of camp is providing campers an environment that allows campers a safe environment to develop and grow. The American Camp Association provides studies that camp truly gives kids a world of good! Experiences at camp are as diverse as the children who attend. And evidence suggests that for many kiddos their camping experiences were most often associated with personal growth in four domains. POSITIVE IDENTITY Self-Esteem – Feeling good about who you are is a goal
that every camp, school and parent has for the children in their care. Indeed, “increased self-esteem” is an outcome so commonly touted by youth development professionals that we often lose sight of its origin and meaning. We must understand that children do not feel worthy, confident and optimistic by having someone tell them that they are special. Self-esteem does not come from empty praise, but from feeling competent; from having successful experiences; from making genuine contributions. Camp is uniquely suited to bring these opportunities to young people. Independence – The experience of achievement and social connection away from home can nurture children’s independence. Research on campers’ adjustment suggests that although mild homesickness is common, it is surmounted by a sense of self-sufficiency – campers are responsible for keeping the camp neat and clean and make sure their personal belongings and bunks are in order. Knowing this, camp provides a culture of caring separate from home or school. Youth development specialists challenge young people to step out of their comfort zone to take healthy risks. When children meet challenges in a supportive environment, they can become more independent. Young people not only accept responsibility, but they also welcome it with a renewed sense of autonomy. SOCIAL SKILLS Leadership – Leadership, like self-esteem, is not bestowed but earned. Camp plays a role in fostering leadership by giving young people responsibilities unavailable in other settings. Camper of the Day, dining hall duties and other camp specific settings provide leadership opportunities. They are responsible for being a good role model for younger campers and are involved in designing their own activity schedule. Of
course, they are also responsible for their own behavior. It is that behavior that determines whether others view them as leaders or not. Friendship skills – Few memories of the camp experience are more vivid and enduring than making friends. For most children, it is the friends – not the facilities or fun activities – that make any experience unforgettable. The relationships that children form at camp can help erode their stereotypes, build trust and respect and push them to be better people themselves. Some research on young people’s mental health even suggests that relationships with peers rival the influence of the parent-child relationship. Young people’s friendships may have a remarkable, enduring influence on their functioning as adults. Ideally, camp creates a culture where making friends blossoms in the absence of cliques, bullies and materialism. Social Comfort – Often, children’s narratives of camp include feeling more socially at ease than they did at school or in their neighborhood. Camp, of course, intentionally works to create cultures devoid of the negative social pressures prevalent in other settings. The result is that campers feel they can be “more themselves” at camp. Peer Relationships – Just as making friends is a pillar of the social skill set, so is keeping friends. After the novelty of a new friendship group has worn off, the work of resolving conflicts, appreciating differences and forgiving faults begins. Ideally, the adults at camp work hard to cultivate the skills necessary to maintain friendships, both in themselves and their campers. Not only can they set good examples of peer relationships, but they can also mediate disagreements and conscientiously include children who otherwise might be excluded in a non-camp setting. PHYSICAL AND
THINKING SKILLS Adventure and exploration – Camp is the promise of exploring beautiful landscapes, trying new activities and taking healthy risks. The very origins of the camp movement in the United States have roots in the pioneering spirit of the first settlers who explored the continent, and in the expressive traditions of the Native Americans. How fitting that camp should carry on the tradition by challenging youth to try new activities, learn new skills, and get caught up in the excitement of living outdoors and feeling ever more competent. Environmental awareness – Environmental awareness is a central part of the camp mission. It is promoted through nature programs, camp beautification and our rural setting. There is an ever-increasing need to teach children about the natural environment and humanity’s role in conserving the earth’s resources. POSITIVE VALUES AND SPIRITUALITY Values and decisions – Parents and staff share the hope that children will mature at camp. Many hope camp will infuse young people
with positive values and the strength to choose the hard right over the easy wrong. The relaxed intensity of the social environment, coupled with consistent adult attention and guidance can help campers test their decision-making skills, see the consequences of their choices and hone a set of core values. Spirituality – Our camp definitely has a spiritual component. Through the beautiful natural setting, opportunities for bonding with others and some religious practices, young people have the opportunity to connect to the earth, to each other and perhaps to a higher power. For many young people, the unique experience of group living away from home in a non-academic setting is itself a spiritually moving experience. Our Mission is to provide a quality, safe and caring summer camp program that develops healthy friendships and enriches the lives of both campers and staff by fostering self-esteem and independence through exposure to new experiences, group living and play. I look forward to sharing this opportunity with you and your child.
March 2024 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 11
Nominations for agent award close March 15 Golf tournament will benefit scholarship fund The 13th Hermann Sons Youth Camp-Shannon Leigh Gaffney Scholarship Fund Golf Tournament will be held Saturday, April 27, 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. Cost is $100 per person for a four-person scramble team. That includes green fees, range balls, lunch, one Mulligan per player and awards. Sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information, contact Jan Stone at 210-4221952. Online registration is available at hermannsonslife. org/golf.
Scholarship deadline for Home scholarship April 1 SAN ANTONIO – 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. 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 and more informaiton can be found at hermannsonslife.org/programs/ scholarships. The Shannon Leigh GaffneyHermann Sons Youth Camp Scholarship awards three $1,000 scholarships for the fall semester. Deadline to apply is March 1. This fund was established in memory of camper Shannon Leigh Gaffney. Several lodges also offer scholarships to juniors graduating from high school. Check with an officer from your lodge for details.
Camp offers eclipse viewing COMFORT – The Hill Country will play center stage to a phenomenal solar event in April 2024. Comfort is in the direct path of the solar eclipse that will produce 100 percent obstruction. Rentals and RV parking will be available at Hermann Sons Life Hilltop Camp in Comfort for viewing. The eclipse date is Monday, April 8. Rental spots for viewing from a vehicle will be available for $30 per vehicle. Food will be available from 10:30 a.m. to noon. Gate will open at 7 a.m. RV spots will be available for $100 per night (no hook-ups). A food package is available that includes five meals served from din-
ner Sunday, April 7, to breakfast Tuesday, April 9, for $75. Gate will open at 2 p.m. A dorm with 35 beds is available to rent from noon on Sunday, April 7, to noon on Tuesday, April 9, with five meals included for a cost of $6,500. There are three of these dorms available. Two smaller dorms with 20 beds each are also available April 7-9 with the five meals included for $3,500. Hilltop Camp is located at 170 Hilltop Camp Road in Comfort. For more information and for reservations, contact Executive Camp Director Ian Brassett at ianb@hermannsonslife.org or call 830-995-3223.
SAN ANTONIO – The nominations deadline is March 15 for the Leroy Muehlstein Memorial Award for the Agent Fraternalist of the Year. President/CEO Robin Czarnek established the award in August 2022 in honor of the past Grand President. “The award recognizes an agent each year that exhibits what it means to be not only a Hermann Sons Life member, but a humanitarian,” Robin said. All members are invited to
nominate a deserving agent. Nominations will be accepted through March 15, 2024. A fillable nomination form is available on the home page of the website, hermannsonslife.org – scroll to the bottom. A nomination form is also available below. Email form to kathrynm@ hermannsonslife.org or mail to: Sales Department, Hermann Sons Life Home Office, P.O. Box 1941, San Antonio, TX 782971941, Attn: Kathryn Mutchler. “Mr. Muehlstein exemplified
the true spirit of fraternalism, and it’s our blessing to be able to carry on his good works through our agents,” Robin said. “Mr. Muehstein was the ultimate fraternalist who lived life every day by the Hermann Sons Life motto of ‘Friendship, Love and Loyalty’.” Leroy began his Hermann Sons Life journey in 1955 as a member of Harmonia Lodge and served from president of his lodge to being elected Grand President. He served from 1989 to 2009, longer than any other Grand President.
Leroy Muehlstein Memorial Award for the Agent Fraternalist of the Year Email form to kathrynm@hermannsonslife.org or mail to: Sales Department, Hermann Sons Life Home Office, P.O. Box 1941, San Antonio, TX 78297-1941, Attn: Kathryn Mutchler Deadline to submit: March 15, 2024 Name of member submitting nomination: ______________________________________________________________ Phone:______________________________________________ Email: ____________________________________________ FRATERNALIST OF THE YEAR NOMINEE INFORMATION Nominated agent’s name:______________________________________ How long an agent:_________________ Lodge: _____________________________ How long a member:_________________________________ Address:_________________________ Phone: _____________________Email: ______________________ Describe what he/she has done for Hermann Sons Life and/or the community that exemplifies the spirit of fraternalism. ( Use additional sheet if needed.) _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Page 12 – Hermann Sons Life – March 2024
Fort Worth will meet at Sammy’s Italian Bistro FORT WORTH – Fort Worth Lodge will meet March 3 at Sammy’s Italian Bistro at 225 Exchange St. in Burleson at 3 p.m. Projects for the year and plans for pin presentations will be discussed. Hope we see each of you there. Happy anniversary wishes to February celebrants, Linda and Robert Balmos, 46 years, Sam
and Sandra Jones, 58 years, and to March celebrants Ronnie and Kim Burns, 21 years. May they have many more. Sympathy is extended to the Lyndall Thompson family. Lyndall had been a member since 1967 and served on committees as well as president of the lodge. He was an avid bowler and bowled in several of the
state tournaments. Sympathy is also extended to the family of Lisa Rampley. Lisa was a member of the lodge since 1971 and was a third-generation member. Congratulations to Bill Lane who bowled a 300 game at Cityview Lanes in the New Beginning League. The best part was it was on his birthday
– great birthday present and great game. Happy birthday wishes to January birthday celebrants Kim Burns, Patricia Burns, Karen Burns-Lane, Cheyenne Davis, Jennifer Dean, Harrison Emshoff, Grayson Hazelwood, Jimmy Kassler, Kylie Leblanc, Caitlin Medford, Daryl Miller, Alicia Putman, Nicole Seise and
Keith Walther; and to February birthday celebrants, Reese Baker, Sam Jones, Katelyn Kassler, Sheila Kime, Kimberly Leblanc, Cooper Lee, Pat Miller, Gene Pierce, Sherry Pierce, Adella Reagan, Matthew Schick, Gracie Stephenson, Jaxsen Voss, Ronald Walters and Aubree Wright. – Reporter
Houston Lodge installs officers for 2024
Dunlay Lodge presents pin Board Director Stan Steiger, center, presented David Charles Lutz, right, with his 60-year membership pin during the Dunlay Lodge Christmas party in December. President Ronnie Kriewald, left, helped with the presentation. David has been a member since Sept. 17, 1963, and is from D’Hanis.
HOUSTON – The 2024 elected and appointed officers of Houston Lodge were installed at the January meeting by President Jack Manchack. Financial Treasurer J. R. Coleman reported Charles Tieken passed away Dec. 6, 2023. A moment of silence was observed in his memory. It was reported all required reports for 2023 will be turned in by the deadline to the Home Office. Jack said he received an email that went to all lodge presidents that a meeting would be held on Jan. 16, 2024, at the Home Office to address questions members may have regarding the new
Lodge Bylaws. A virtual meeting was held Jan. 25. The two things that affect the lodge the most are paying officers and the cost of the new dues. Places to meet for meetings and meals for the rest of 2024 were discussed. The February meeting was held at Don Jose’s. Golden Corral on I-45 North was also discussed. The June 10 picnic will be held at Hickory Hollow. The Christmas dinner at Logan’s Roadhouse on Saturday, Dec. 7, 2024, at 4 p.m. will be confirmed later. Happy Birthday was sung to Catherine Manchack and Lavinia Patterson.
Winners in the monthly attendance drawing were Lavinia Patterson, Sheila Lee, James Ellison, Gary Falkenberg and Cheyenne Howell. Winners in the annual attendance drawing were Lavinia Patterson, Jeff Krahn, twice, Kiera Thomason twice, Doris Falkenberg, Catherine Manchack, twice, Jack Manchack and Samantha Thomason. Gary reported he was doing well after his surgery on Jan. 3. If you have any questions about Houston Lodge, please contact Secretary Catherine Manchack at 832-443-0469. – Reporter
Dallas Lodge plans meeting for March 17
Columbus Lodge member receives pin Virginia Fritsch, left, received a 60-year membership from President and CEO Robin Czarnek at the Columbus Lodge Christmas social. Virginia also accepted her husband Adrian’s 60-year pin and shared a photo of him. Adrian resides in a nursing home. Both Virginia and Adrian’s membership date is Sept. 9, 1963.
DALLAS – Dallas Lodge will meet March 17 at 1 p.m. at the Hall. Everyone is encouraged to attend. The Sons of Hermann Home Association officers will hold the annual meeting at 2 p.m. Important bylaw proposals will be voted on. The Dallas and Columbia directors encourage everyone to attend. Food and drinks will be provided. At the January meeting, President Andy Schellenberg installed elected and appointed officers and thanked them for their service. He reported Vice President of Sales Teresa Saathoff sent information about the 2024 “Grow with Us” campaign and other insurance news. The lodge’s member goal is three new members. Members are asked to help get new members. Treasurer Steve Schellenberg,
the Finance Committee and trustees completed the required audit and report for July 1-Dec. 31, 2023, after the meeting. Members voted to hold the membership pin presentation on May 19 at 1 p.m. at El Fenix Restaurant in downtown Dallas. Members and guests are welcome. The lodge will provide the meal and drinks. More details will be provided next month. Home Association General Manager Amber Morchower gave a plumbing report. The good news was there were no
water leaks upstairs. But the bad news was downstairs there were leaks in the restrooms and damage to ceilings, walls and baseboards. They had to be replaced and painted as well as flooring. Outside plumbing repairs were also needed to the city line and debris had to be moved to the dumpster. Cost for all of this work was $40,193.96. Thank you to Amber for managing this large project. Congratulations to Andy for winning the attendance price. – Andy Schellenberg
Gay Hill will meet on April 2 GAY HILL – Gay Hill Lodge will meet Tuesday, April 2, at 6 p.m. at the Burton Short Stop. Birthday celebrants this quarter were Marvin Fischer, Mae Fischer, Patsy Fischer, Bradley
Fischer and Emily Lehde. A sympathy card was sent to the family of Stanley Klekar who was president for many, many years and will be dearly missed. – Reporter
March 2023 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 13
Spring Branch presents Humanitarian Award BULVERDE – Spring Branch Lodge will meet March 17 at the Bulverde Community Center at 2:30 p.m. The lodge welcomed new member Lisa Dishman, an agent, at the January meeting held at the Bulverde Community Center. Don Fischer was named the 2023 Humanitarian of the Year. President Sharon Knibbe presented him the award at the Christmas party on Dec. 8. Don was very deserving of this award. Officers for 2024 are, Sharon Knibbe, president; Darrell Woody, vice president; Karen Woody, secretary/treasurer; Jane Wanke, reporter; and Alverne Halloran, cheerperson. Finance Committee members are Jane Wanke, Phyllis Havens and Chuck Knibbe. Trustees are Mary Woody and Ben Havens. Correspondence from the Home Office included informa-
Spring Branch Lodge President Sharon Knibbe presented the Humanitarian of the Year award to Don Fischer at the Christmas party in December.
Celebrating birthdays at Spring Branch were, from left, Mary Woody, Timmie Angell, Sharon Knibbe and Lisa Dishman
tion on the upcoming Shannon Leigh Gaffney Memorial Golf Tournament on April 27 at the Golf Club of Texas that raises funds for scholarships. Entry forms are available at hermannsonslife.org/golf. Youth Camp registration will open in
Attendance-prize winners were Timmie Angell, Phyllis Havens, Sandra Duncan, Lisa Dishman, Carl Wanke, Ed Geffken, Ben Havens, Sharon Knibbe and Karen Woody. It was announced the lodge will host the Christmas party on
March. Memberships dues for all members are now a standardized $1.50 per member effective Jan. 1, 2024. Birthday celebrants were Mary Woody, Timmie Angell, Sharon Knibbe and Lisa Dishman.
Dec. 8, 2024. A membership pin presentation will be held July 21, 2024, at Knibbe Ranch. Jane Wanke, Chuck and Sharon Knibbe and Karen and Darrell Woody provided the meal. – Jane Wanke
Niederwald to dress green for meeting LOCKHART – NiederwaldLodge will meet March 5 at 11 a.m. at the Lockhart Senior Center. Members are asked to wear green for St. Patrick’s Day. Officers were installed at the February meeting. They are Don Dailey, president; Harry Schriber, vice president; Connie Schriber, financial and corresponding secretary; and trustees, Nancy Smith, Betty Duestuhft and Joe
Hennig. Appointed officers are Adline Schubert, membership coordinator and Nancy Smith, communications. A moment of silence was observed for members who have passed. Remembered were Catherine Grohan, a member for 41 years and 97 years old; Lyndon Homann, a member for 42 years and 79 years old; Kirly Redlin, a member for 71 years and 71
years old; John Schwirtz, a member for 67 years and 67 years old; Shirley Groves, a member for 56 years, 71 years old; William Harberer, a member for 76 years and 80 years old; Betty Fehlis, a member for 69 years and 88 years old; Elsie Germer, a member for 70 years and 89 years old; and Alvin Moczygemba, a member for 66 years and 88 years old. – Reporter
Adline Schubert and Catherine Blackard were door prize winners at the February meeting of Niederwald Lodge.
Niederwald Lodge officers were installed at the February meeting. Officers are Don Dailey, president; Harry Schriber, vice president; Connie Schriber, financial and corresponding secretary; and trustees, Nancy Smith, Betty Duestuhft and Joe Hennig. Appointed officers are Adline Schubert, membership coordinator and Nancy Smith, communications.
Stern Lodge elects 2024 officers Stern Lodge officers for 2024 are pictured. They are, from left, Lorrie Rangel, treasurer and financial advisor; Dustin Engelke, trustee; Donald Morawietz, vice President; Brandi May, secretary; Brandon May, trustee; Rick May, president; and Candace Holmes, trustee.
Vineta will meet on March 7 SAN ANTONIO – Vineta Lodge will meet on March 7. Shepherd’s pie and dessert will be served. Thank you to Debbie Jordan for making the pancakes and all who brought breakfast food in February. The split-the-pot winner
was Emily Roberts, and the attendance- prize winners were Irene Kace, Cecilia Padalecki, Genny Kraus and Debbie Jordan. February birthday celebrants were Debbie Jordan and Aubrey Dryzmalla. – Reporter
Page 14 – Hermann Sons Life – March 2024
San Marcos Lodge plans Join Hands Day project SAN MARCOS – San Marcos Lodge will meet in the garage of Agnes Dreibrodt on Monday, March 4, at 4:30 p.m. For Join Hands Day, members will be preparing greeting cards with lodge juniors and a 4-H Club group. The annual memorial service for 2023 deceased members will be held at the next regular meeting on April 1 at LaVista Community Room in San Marcos at 6:30 p.m. Deceased members who will be honored are Sammie Williamson, Elizabeth Beecroft, Esther Schmidt, Larry Moreau, Kay Tilton and Joy Schulze. Family members or friends are invited to attend, but please RSVP to Vice President Agnes Dreibrodt at 830822-1413 or to Janice Kuhen at 512-393-1431 by March 25. The lodge met Monday, Feb. 5, at the Olive Garden restaurant. Installation of the newly elected and appointed officers was officiated by President Shirley Faske. The Cheer Committee reported get-well cards had been sent to Marshall Smith, Danny Preuss and Wayne Roach. A sympathy card was sent to Nancy Nusbaum for the death of husband, Monte. Jean Wiedenfeld has transferred from the lodge.
San Marcos Lodge Past President Agnes Dreibrodt, left, passes the gavel to new President Shirley Faske at the February meeting.
San Marcos Lodge recognized birthday celebrant Benhard Faske at the February meeting.
Correspondence included a letter from President and CEO Robin Czarnek informing the membership effective Jan. 1, 2024, membership dues are now a standard $18 annually or $1.50 per month, per member. One dollar of the $1.50 will be sent to the lodge and the Home Office will receive 50 cents. The letter stated, “We believe that $1.50 per month per member was a reasonable adjustment to be fair for all considered. …coming together to embrace these necessary changes will ensure the sustainability and prosperity of our Lodges and organization
for generations to come.” Also read was a thank-you from the Hays County Food Bank for the lodge’s donation of 125 pounds of food collected at the Christmas party. The donations were delivered to the Food Bank on Dec. 11, 2023, by Shirley Faske, Agnes Dreibrodt and Janice Kuhen. A thank-you card was received from Irene and George Bierstedt for the fruit trays the lodge provided in memory of Joy Schulze. President Faske informed the membership of scholarships available for graduating high school seniors, the Shannon Leigh Gaffney-Hermann Sons
Lockhart Lodge installs new officers for 2024 LOCKHART – Lockhart Lodge will meet Sunday, March 3, at 4:30 p.m. at Smitty’s Market. At the February meeting, President Nicky Duewall installed the 2024 officers. Agent Janice Kuhen announced annuities are now paying 5%. Members voted to increase the monetary gifts for high school seniors this year. For the lodge’s Join Hands Day project, the lodge will purchase two boxes of sausage from Smitty’s Market for the Lockhart FFA auction. Proceeds from the auction go toward an FFA Scholarship.
Ray Pfefferkorn read a thank you letter from the Ascension Seton Hays Foundation for the lodge’s donation to the Caldwell County Children’s Care-A-Van program. He also talked about the changes in the Bylaws that would affect the lodge and read a congratulations letter from the Home Office for meeting the 2023 membership goal. The lodge earned a bonus check. Door-prizes winners were Craig Duewall, Daniel Hyland and Billy Ray Buckner. Everyone enjoyed a meal following the meeting. – Reporter
The 2024 San Marcos Lodge officers were installed in February. They are, front, from left, Janice Kuhen, financial Secretary; Shirley Faske, president; Agnes Dreibrodt, vice president; back, from left, trustees Mary Lou Preuss, Janet Magin and Earlene Acrey; and Mary Jane Smith, membership coordinator. Youth Camp Scholarship and the Hermann Sons Life Retirement Home Scholarship. The applications can be found on the Hermann Sons Life website by going to: www.hermannsonslife.org/programs/scholarships . The 2024 membership campaign theme is “Grow with Us” and the lodge has received its goal from the Home Office. The membership was informed of the dates for summer camp, fees involved for the different camp sessions and the introduction of a new 11-day, 10-night session.
The Annual Retirement Home Chili and Bean Cook-off usually held at the Retirement Home in March has been discontinued. Happy birthday wishes were sung to celebrant Benhard Faske. Valentine couples in attendance were recognized. They were Marshall and Mary Jane Smith, Shirley and Benhard Faske and Billy and Mary Lou Preuss. Everyone received a Valentine box of candy. Attendance-prize winners were Mary Lou Preuss and Benhard Faske. – Reporter
Twin Sisters Lodge will meet April 7 TWIN SISTERS – Twin Sisters Lodge will meet April 7. Steve Hartmann and his team will prepare fried fish. President Marcus Ethridge conducted the officer installation for the newly elected 2024 officers at the February meeting. He also read correspondence from the Home Office announcing the new membership drive campaign, “Grow with Us.” The lodge’s membership goal is seven new members. Board Director Stan Steiger gave a short update from the Home Office on the new standardized membership dues and the selling of the Home Office building.
Members voted to clean-up the Blanco Cemetery again for Join Hands Day this year. The tentative date is Saturday, May 4. A moment of silence was observed for Raymond Lee Werner who passed away on Oct. 8, 2023. Marcus read thank-you notes from the Good Samaritan Center and the Blanco County Youth Council for the lodge’s donations. He also read an invitation from Comal County area lodges to join in a “Spring Awareness” event, date to be announced. The contact persons are Mike and Connie Krause. February and March birthday
celebrants were recognized. They are Deborah Knoll, Marcus, Ethan Morash, Tanja Tomlinson, Jennifer Ethridge and Rick Weidman. Anniversary celebrants in February were Duane and Tanja Tomlinson and Herm and Nancy Weber. Kaden and Ethan Morash helped select door prizes. The winners were Steve Hartmann and Gertrude Hartmann and they both donated their winnings to the Building Fund. The meal followed the meeting. Thank you to Stan for providing the delicious tamales and to everyone who provided sides and to Steve for frying sopapillas for dessert. – Reporter
March 2024 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 15
Cibolo Lodge plans sausage dinner for March 7 CIBOLO – Cibolo Lodge will meet March 7. A sausage dinner will be served, scholarship applications will be available and there will be an additional contest for St. Patrick’s Day-themed desserts. Bingo will follow the meeting. An officers’ meeting in January included the election and installation of the 2024 officers. The officer positions are unchanged except for the Finance Committee. Fay Fey retired from her position. Layla De Luca was elected to the Finance Committee in place of Fay, and Gail Gray will serve as chairman of the Finance Committee. It was announced all lodge dues are now a standard $1.50
per person, adult and junior members alike. One dollar will go to the lodge and 50 cents will go to the Home Office for fraternal expenses. This went into effect on Jan. 1, 2024. The 2024 lodge calendar has been set. There was no February meeting. In March, on the 2nd is the Texas Independence Day ceremony at the Sebastopol House historic site at 704 Zorn St. in Seguin. The meeting is March 7 and Easter Sunday is on March 31. The April meeting will again be held at Golden Corral this year. Members who plan to attend must RSVP. A regular meeting will be held May 2. The meal is lasagna and Mother’s Day
will be celebrated. Bunco will be played, and the men are responsible for the desserts. May 5 is a community service day and members will help serve at the annual St. John’s Turkey Dinner. Father’s Day will be celebrated at the June 6 regular meeting. Brisket will be served, and the women are responsible for dessert and bingo will follow the meeting. For the Mother’s Day and Father’s Day meetings, members are asked to bring their favorite picture of their moms and dads. Flag Day is June 14. Members will honor the flag at Cibolo City Hall again this year. In July, a regular meeting will not be
held, but an officers’ meeting is planned for some time during the month depending on everyone’s vacation schedule. Fried chicken will be served at the meeting on Aug. 1 and bingo will follow the meeting. The memorial meeting will be held Sept. 5. Pot roast will be served, and a best homemade pie contest will be held. Nominations for the Humanitarian of the Year Award will be accepted. A reminder that nominees do not have to be members of Hermann Sons Life. If you know of a deserving individual, please share their information with officers as soon as possible, Pizza will be served at the Oct. 3 meeting, and the Halloween
costume contests for junior and adult members will be held. Bingo will follow the meeting and costume winners will be announced. For the Nov. 7 meeting, turkey from Bill Miller will be served, the election of officers will be held, the Humanitarian of the Year will be announced, and the best homemade cookie contest will be held. The annual Christmas Party will be held in December. The presentation of checks to the Matching Funds recipient, collection of items for charity, and the 50/50 drawing to benefit the Scholarship Fund will be held. – Reporter
Pershing will celebrate anniversary on March 6 SAN ANTONIO – Pershing Lodge will meet on March 6 at 7 p.m. in the Rathskeller. The lodge will be celebrating its 104th anniversary and honoring past presidents. Ham and a cake will be provided, and members are asked to bring side dishes. RSVP to President Dorothy Pawlik at 210-4167422. The lodge welcomes new members Kai Julian Beadle and Damian Lui Guerrero. Sheryl F. Koltermann recently passed away at the age of 73. Birthday prizes were presented to February celebrants Loyd LeBlanc and John Opiela.
Pershing Lodge recognized birthday celebrants John Opiela, left, and Loyd LeBlanc at the February meeting. Alice Golla won the $35 attendance prize, and Beth Warne won the split-the-pot drawing. – Dorothy Pawlik
Helotes will discuss next community service project HELOTES – Helotes Lodge will meet Tuesday, March 12. The 2024 slate of officers will be introduced and the community service project for the upcoming year will be discussed. Dinner will be served, and members will have a chance to win a door prize. Members we need you! Attendance at quarterly meetings has dwindled to an average of 10-12
members. The lodge could do good things in the community with more participation from members. Would you be more likely to attend a meeting via Teams or some other virtual method? Contact Rebecca by text at 210-723-8939 or Letty by text at 210-218-9423 if you’d like to receive a Teams link to join the meeting. – Reporter
Celebrating anniversaries at Kypfer-Salge Lodge in February were, from left, Oran and Nelrose Koepp, 68 years, and Dennis and Molly Koepp, 41 years.
Kypfer-Salge Lodge member Nelrose Koepp celebrated a birthday in February.
Kypfer-Salge Lodge to meet on March 1 NEW BRAUNFELS – KypferSalge Lodge will meet Friday, March 1. Members met for fellowship and the monthly meeting on Friday, Feb. 2, with 12 members and one guest in attendance. Everyone enjoyed pizza, spaghetti and salad for dinner.
Wonderful desserts were also available. A short meeting was held with a moment of silence in honor of past Trustee Charlie Seiter who passed away in January. Charlie, you will be missed. The February birthday celebrant was Nelrose Koepp. Cel-
ebrating anniversaries in February were Oran and Nelrose Koepp, 68 years, and Dennis and Molly Koepp, 41 years. Attendance-prize winners were Oran Koepp, Helen Lammert, Merry Brinkkoeter, Celeste Salge and Art Brinkkoeter. – Merry Brinkkoeter
Hondo Victory Lodge will meet March 12 HONDO VICTORY – Hondo Victory Lodge will meet for its quarterly meeting on March 12 at the lodge hall at 6 p.m. The December meeting was held at Hermann Sons Steak House on Dec. 12. President Aurline Tschirhart welcomed guest, Vice President of Sales Teresa Saathoff
from the Home Office. Teresa installed the 2024 officers, Aurline Tschirhart, president; Debbie Payne, vice president; Emilie Cowan, secretary; and Linda Tschirhart, financial secretary/treasurer. Serving on the Trustee/Finance Committee are Marie Tschirhart, Janice Whitehead
and Quida Samford. Debbie Payne presented the Humanitarian of the Year Award to Loraine Miller. Loraine is very active in Herrmann Sons Life, her church and the community. Members enjoyed their meal and games of Keno. – Reporter
Page 16 – Hermann Sons Life – March 2024
New Braunfels Lodge holds memorial service
NEW BRAUNFELS – New Braunfels Lodge will meet Sunday, March 3. A catered meal will be served, and members are asked to RSVP. For the February meeting, the hall was decorated for Valentine’s Day with items provided by Dorella Colbert. President and CEO Robin Czarnek spoke about the sale of the Home Office building in San Antonio and answered questions. A memorial service was held for 13 members who passed away in 2023. Happy Birthday was sung to Dennis Schwab, Leola Stolte and Sharon Suchy. Hannelore and Leroy Brotze celebrated their 61st anniversary.
New Braunfels Lodge President Violet Tanneberger led a memorial service at the February meeting.
New Braunfels Lodge recognized anniversary celebrants Hannelore and Leroy Brotze at the February meeting, 61 years.
A thank-you card was given to Dave Czarnek for the handmade ornaments he gifted the lodge. Attendance-prize winners
were Karen Harborth, Tommy Daum, Sandra Guenther, Connie Krause, Sharon Suchy, Leroy and Hannelore Brotze, Phillip and Janice Neff, B.J. Schneider,
Birthday celebrants Leola Stolte, Dennis Schwab and Sharon Suchy were recognized at the New Braunfels Lodge February meeting. Dennis Schwab and Shirley Huebinger. A pulled-pork supper, hosted
by Sandra Guenther, was served after games and refreshments. – Reporter
Round Top installs officers ROUND TOP – Round Top Lodge installed the 2024 officers at the January meeting. All officers were present for the installation. Attendance included 16 members and one visitor, Kim Morgan, Earl’s daughter. The lodge welcomes new member, Jade Jacob and transfer members from Paige Lodge, Grayson and Paul Kipp, Valgene Ebner and Glenroy and Waldine Ebner. Melanie Rauch sent a sympathy card to the Ted Stardig family. Mary Rauch did the memorial and a moment of silence was observed. He will be missed. Another active member, Floyd
Braun, is currently on the sick list. A thank-you note was received from the Ledbetter Volunteer Fire Department. Happy Birthday was sung for Jeanette Hancock. Door prizes furnished by Virgie Hall were won by Pearlie Wagner and Jeanette Schoenst. Attendance-prize winners were Melaine Rauch, Jeanette Hancock, Valgene Ebner, Mary Rauch and LaVerne Albers. Following the meeting, everyone enjoyed fellowship, refreshments and a delicious meal of steak and sausage with lots of sides and desserts. – Reporter
Paige welcomes Giddings PAIGE – Paige Lodge will meet Sunday, March 10, at noon at the lodge hall. Lunch will be provided. At the February meeting, members approved some repairs to the lodge building be made and the purchase of a new refrigerator. The lodge invites members of Giddings Lodge that has merged with Paige Lodge to attend meetings. Meetings are held on the second Sunday of
each month at noon unless a change is needed. Meals are potluck, furnished by the lodge or members go to a restaurant for lunch. Details are usually noted in the Hermann Sons Life News. For questions, call Milton Ihlo at 512-444-2287. If no answer, please leave a message and the call will be returned. Everyone enjoyed the potluck meal. – Milton Ihlo
Gulf Lodge elects 2024 officers Pictured are 2024 Gulf Lodge officers. The officers are Charles Head, president; Rick Huepers, vice president; Brenda Smith, secretary; Jennifer Garner, treasurer; Louise Guzman, Jennifer Head and Gary Scales, financial trustees; Teri Walston, communication coordinator; Gary and Eva Scales, community coordinators; Betty Mathison, membership coordinator; Jerre Sue Massa, membership coordinator; and Stella Head, youth coordinator.
Hermann Sons Life President and CEO Robin Czarnek addresses members of Gulf Lodge.
Boerne will meet March 1 at The Center BOERNE – Boerne Lodge will meet Friday, March 1, at The Center at Kronkosky Place. Members are requested to bring a side dish to go along with a potluck lunch. Correspondence was read from Vice President of Sales Teresa Saathoff. She announced the 2024 lodge membership campaign theme is “Grow with Us.”
The lodge has a goal of 13 new members. Please refer your friends and family to Hermann Sons Life and help the lodge attain its goal. Agent Ana Vasquez informed the lodge that a Flexible Premium Deferred Annuity is now being offered with a current interest rate of 5 percent. You can
contact Ana at 210-569-4660 for more information. Happy birthday wishes to Cissy Tyler who celebrated in February. Marilyn Vogt was the winner of the Valentine bingo and received a valentine box containing candy and a free meal ticket to The Center for a future lunch. – Reporter
Da Costa Lodge to hold Spring Fling March 23 DA COSTA – The Da Costa Lodge Spring Fling will be held Saturday March 23. Doors open at 11 am. The Westwood 4-H will serve pulled pork sandwiches for $5 for dine in or to go. A cake/toy walk for 50 cents a number per spin will be held. All
other games and activities are free and will begin at noon. Concessions will be available – cash and card accepted. The Easter Bunny will be available for photos and fun from 12-2 p.m. An Easter egg hunt will be held at 1 p.m. for age groups
0-3, 4-6 and 7-11. Don’t forget Easter baskets. The event is open to the public, so bring friends. Donations of candy, baked goods or toys are being accepted. Please contact a lodge officer or call the lodge at 361-578-2039. – Sayra Boop
March 2024 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 17
Columbia Lodge plans meeting for March 3 DALLAS – Columbia Lodge will meet March 3 at the Hall at 3 p.m. The general meeting will be held on Sunday, March 17, at 2 p.m. at the Hall, 3414 Elm St. in Dallas. In January, the lodge resumed its monthly volunteer gig with the Resource Center in Dallas at its bingo games. Thank you to members Jeremiah Arauco, Amanda Hobbs and Allen and Ok Hwa Hare who helped set up the event. Following the February meeting, the lodge held its annual chili cook-off. Stanley Whitehead “Chili-Cook-Extraordinaire” was the winner. He will be awarded $66 towards a bus trip the lodge has planned to San Antonio later this year. The historic hall hosted the
20th anniversary of Texas singer/ songwriter Max Stalling’s Valentine’s Show Feb. 16-17. Max has graced the building once a year for two decades bringing his fun, thoughtful and foot-stomping music. Thank you, Max! The lodge’s calendar has been updated. Monthly lodge meetings are held at the hall at 3 p.m. and are scheduled for April 7, May 5 (which includes the pin presentation ceremony for 50- 60- and 70-year pin recipients), July 7, Aug. 4, Sept. 8, Oct. 6, Nov. 3 and Dec. 8 (which will be followed by the Dallas and Columbia lodges’ Christmas party). Other important dates include Saturday, April 6 - Spring Fling Dance workshop, dinner and dance with live music by Savoy Swing. Join Hands Day
Columbia Lodge members Allen and Ok Hwa Hare, Jeremiah Arauco and Amanda Hobbs helped set up for the Resource Center’s bingo games in January. is on May 4. In June, the lodge will hold its meeting/picnic (TBD). On July 20, the Christmas in July Toy Drive for the Larry
Brenham plans drive-through dinner BRENHAM – Brenham Lodge will meet Friday, March 8, at the lodge Hall, 304 E. Germania. Fried chicken and sides will be served, and members are asked to provide desserts. At the February meeting, Agent Gary Falkenberg spoke on the Hermann Sons Life annuity and the new minimum guaranteed rate of 2.75 percent. He also discussed insurance plans offered. The lodge will hold a drivethrough meal on Sunday, June 2, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The meal will be barbecued beef and sausage. Tickets will sell for $15 per person. Volunteers will be needed that day for setup, distribution and cleanup. The annual Christmas party is set for Saturday, Dec. 7. Allison and Friends will provide
Celebrating birthdays in February at Brenham Lodge were, from left, Harold Srawls, Diane Weikel, Ed Zientek, Shirley Rowan and Mark Boeker. the dance music. Mark your calendar. February birthday celebrants were Harold Srawls, Diane Weikel, Ed Zientek, Shirley Rowan and Mark Boeker. Ronald and Jeri Bentke celebrated their 35th anniversary.
Door-prize winners were Carol Stamport and Larry Weikel. Karl Goessler and Ronald Bentke prepared a meal of homemade chili with sides and members provided desserts. – Reporter
Gilbert Shelby, David Lewis and Mark Goad celebrate with Stanley Whitehead, far right, winner of the annual Columbia Lodge chili cook-off in February.
Tutson, Jr. Foundation will be held. Oktoberfest will be held Oct. 12, and Make a Difference Day is Oct. 26 (TBD).
Looking forward to our next event to enjoy more Friendship, Love and Loyalty. – Cecilia Phillips
Mission-Alamo meets March 17 SAN ANTONIO – MissionAlamo Lodge will meet March 17 at 2 p.m. offsite. Call Joyce Kneupper at 210-508-5624 for more information. A meeting will not be held in April. The next meeting will be held May 19 at 2 p.m. and mothers will be honored. The lodge welcomes new member Katherine Gloria Bordovsky. The lodge mourns the passing of Emma L. Lambert and Stuart J. Breezee. Mark your calendars for the family picnic on Aug. 18 from noon to 4 p.m. at Hilltop Camp. Plans are being made for a small children’s holiday party on Nov. 17 from 2-4 p.m. More information will be provided later. The lodge recognized birthday celebrant Alethalena Luers at the January meeting.
Mission-Alamo Lodge President Diane Cline presents a birthday gift to Alethalena Luers at the January meeting. The name of Luke Patrick Feldman was drawn for the $150 attendance prize, but he was not in attendance. Avery Pike won the split-the-pot prize and the other half goes to the Grief Support Camp Fund. – Reporter
Rutersville plans fajita dinner
Brenham Lodge members Sheryl Blakemore, left, and Judy Baichtal celebrated birthdays in January.
Anniversary celebrants Ronald and Jeri Bentke were recognized at the Brenham Lodge February meeting.
RUTERSVILLE – Rutersville Lodge will meet March 6, at 7 p.m. Fajitas will be provided, and members are asked to bring sides or desserts. The lodge will sponsor the upcoming Bluff Schuetzenfest on May 18 at Monument Hill. Door-prize winners were
Albert Loehr, Carol Jenkins, Karen Rosenbaum, Theresa Garlin and Jo Ann Mueller. Weldon Hartmann and crew prepared a meal of chicken fried steak, and members provided sides and desserts. – Carol Jenkins
Page 18 – Hermann Sons Life – March 2024
Prinz Solms scholarship applications available BULVERDE – Prinz Solms Lodge will meet Sunday, March 10, at 5 p.m. at the Bulverde Community Center. Officers were installed for 2024 at the February meeting. The officers are President Cliff Klabunde, Secretary/Treasurer Tom Pardue; trustees, Russell Boss and Nolan Wehe; Coordinators – Membership, Doug Klabunde; Youth, Audrey Klabunde; Community, Jackie Oldfield; and Communications, Tom Pardue. Jackie Oldfield announced the next STAGE presentation is
“Rope.” Contact Jackie if interested in tickets. Youth Coordinator Audrey Klabunde announced lodge scholarship applications are available to graduating seniors Contact Audrey at 210-912-4207. Members heard a presentation by Paula Rieka about the 711 Ranch and its history. The ranch covered 9,000 acres around Hwy. 281 and FM 306. Artifacts have been discovered that indicate human habitation from 8,000 years ago. – Reporter
January and February birthday celebrants at Prinz Solms Lodge were Eric Rentz, Everlyn Teague and Doug Klabunde.
Prinz Solms Lodge hosted 711 Ranch speaker Paula Rieka, right, pictured with member Audrey Klabunde in February.
Harmonia to hold memorial service Deanville meeting March 24
SAN ANTONIO – Harmonia Lodge will meet March 14 in the Rathskeller. Corned Beef Hash will be served for St. Patrick’s Day. Members are encouraged to bring sides and dessert. A memorial service will be held in the lodge hall and bingo may follow in the Rathskeller.
Lodge President Dr. Matthew Kraus received the Humanitarian of the Year Award for his many years of service and dedication to the service of others, most notably for his assistance with John Hoog and his family when John passed away in 2023. Thank you, Matthew for all
that you do. Members congratulated Steve Prewitt on his birthday and Bill Richards on his ten-year wedding anniversary. We Look forward to celebrating Friendship, Love and loyalty at the March meeting. – Reporter
DEANVILLE – Due to Easter falling on March 31, Deanville Lodge will meet on March 24 at 2 p.m. The lodge held its first meeting of the new year on Jan. 28. President Donnie Blinka conducted the installation of officers for 2024. Other officers include Vice President Tammy Jones, Financial Secretary Debby Schumacher, Corresponding Secretary Beverly Blinka and Financial Trustees, Janice Norman, Wayne Eichholz and Bennie Jones. Memorials to the Hermann
Sons Life Retirement Home will be given in memory of ten lodge members who passed away in 2023. Donnie announced he will no longer be an agent for Hermann Sons Life. He expresses his appreciation to all the members he was able to serve during almost 30 years as an agent. As lodge president, he will continue to assist members with any concerns they may have. His contact number is 979-219-3126 or 979-5961309. – Reporter
Mike Gump, right, presented the Harmonia Lodge Harmonia Lodge President Matthew Kraus, Humanitarian of the Year Award to President center, presented attendance prizes to Charles Kretzschmar and John Miller. Matthew Kraus.
McGregor to meet March 5 McGREGOR – McGregor Lodge will meet March 5 at 5 p.m. at George’s on Hewitt. At the February meeting held at The Coffee Shop, President Doris Mooney read correspondence from the Home Office announcing the membership campaign theme for 2024 is “Grow with Us.” Also announced was the change of membership dues to a standardized $1.50 per month for all members. Sympathy is extended to the family of Luke, Mark and John
Lammert on the passing of their mother, Vi Lammert and to the family of Joyce Weiss Thane who passed away on Feb. 7. They were both great ladies and will be truly missed. Prayers and get-well wishes were extended to Natishua Brandt. The lucky door-prize winners were Betty Johnson, Regenia Arseneaux and Kerry Arseneaux. President Doris Mooney gave a Valentine’s Day gift to everyone. – Doris Mooney
Louise Schuetze Lodge will meet March 11
Harmonia Lodge President Matthew Kraus, left, presents Ron Roberts his split-the-pot prize.
Louise Schuetze Lodge gathered at Lupe Tortilla Restaurant on Feb. 12 to celebrate Valentine’s Day. Happy birthday to February celebrants Mary Beam, Lori Naughton and Lisa Robalin. The lodge will meet on March 11 at 6:30 p.m. in the Rathskeller. The lodge will provide dinner and drinks. For any questions, please call Janet Abell at 210-363-4022 or Carol Grill at 956-821-7052.
March 2024 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 19
Rosenberg-Richmond Lodge will meet April 8 ROSENBERG – RosenbergRichmond Lodge will meet on April 8 at the Rosenberg Civic Center. Fried chicken will be provided, and members are asked to bring a vegetable, salad or dessert. At the February meeting held at Benton Realty in Rosenberg, there were 33 members and guests in attendance. Members approved the meeting schedule for 2024. Meetings will be held
June 10 – chicken fried steak or chicken fried chicken, members bring desserts; July 8 – Membership Appreciation Dinner at Golden Corral; Aug. 12 – ice cream and game night; Oct. 14 – enchilada casserole, members bring desserts; Dec. 9 – turkey and dressing, members bring desserts. A game night will be held, and members are asked to bring items for Helping Hands. Membership Coordinator
Eppie Kostak reported a get-well card was sent to Robbie Hartfiel. A moment of silence was observed for deceased member Ivan L. Richter. Margie Krenek and John and Nancy Roberson donated door prizes. Atttendance-prize winners were Raymond Schmidt, Otto Tiemann, Kevin Engelhardt, Annie Zak and Raymond Negrete. – Loyce Anderson
Members celebrating birthdays in January and February at the Rosenberg-Richmond Lodge meeting were Bill Boyd, Margie Krenek, Elaine Krause and Malcolm Krause.
Kirby Lodge plans sausage supper KIRBY – Kirby Lodge will meet March 4 at 7 p.m. The lodge will provide a sausage steam bake of sausage, potatoes, turnips, carrots and onions. Members are asked to bring a side or dessert. A reminder that the drawing for the quarterly attendance prize will be held and awarded to a member who has attended the January, February and March meetings. The April meeting will be held April 1 at 7 p.m. The main dish will be provided, and members are asked to bring a side or dessert. Applications for the Kirby Lodge Scholarship are available and are due by July 1, 2024. If you know of any student wish-
ing to apply, have them contact one of the lodge officers for more information. Thank you to Trustee James McQuatters for scheduling the exterminator to treat the lodge building for termites. Condolences go out to the family of member Charles L. Belohlavek who passed away in December. Happy birthday wishes to February celebrants Kerry Lambrecht and Julie Lyssy. Congratulations to the February winners. Keary Lambrecht won the $30 attendance prize, and winners of split-the-pot were Keary Lambrecht, Lillian Kutzer, Carroll Gloor and Julie Lyssy.
Kirby Lodge recognized birthday celebrants Julie Lyssy and Kerry Lambrecht at the February meeting. If you know of anyone interested in life insurance, an annuity, or Camp, have them contact agents Judy Schulmeier or Angela Netherton. – Andra Fore
Macdona holds annual Christmas party ATASCOSA – Macdona Lodge held the annual Christmas party in December. Acadiana Restaurant catered the meal and members brought a variety of desserts. A short meeting was held, and the lodge honored retiring financial secretary Kathy Thomas. She served in that position for 14 years. She was presented a certificate and bouquet of flowers in appreciation of her hard work, dedication and faithful service to the lodge. The lodge gave gifts to the children, and Karen Duncan organized games for them to play. Door prizes were awarded. – Reporter
Macdona Lodge held the annual Christmas party in December. Members enjoyed a catered meal. Macdona Lodge honored retiring financial secretary Kathy Thomas, left, at the annual Christmas party. President Eulla Krueger presented her with a certificate of appreciation and a bouquet of flowers.
Schulenburg Lodge President Ed Moeller presented a 50-year membership pin to member Pat Mache.
Schulenburg to meet May 8 SCHULENBURG – Schulenburg Lodge will meet Wednesday, May 8, at Oakridge Restaurant in Schulenburg at 5:30 p.m. for refreshments and dinner and the meeting follows at 6 p.m. Twenty-six members and guests were present at the last meeting. Agent Kyle Hartmann from Rutersville was the guest speaker. President Ed Moeller presented a 50-year membership pin to Pat Mache. New Bielau Lodge will merge with Schulenburg Lodge effective March 1, 2024, with 169 members. The lodge welcomes new members Gabriela Romine, Bennett Shimek, Sloan Ponder, Magdalene Sustr, Madison Flores and Lillian Florus. The installation of officers for 2024 was held. They are President Ed Moeller, Vice President Mary K. Seifert, Financial Secretary Chelsea Moeller, Correspondence Secretary Junette Rodecap,
Financial Trustees, Frank Bohlmann, Elmer Ulrich and Kitty Dittrich. The appointed officers are, Membership Coordinator Mary Schroeder, Scholarship Chair Mary K. Seifert and Nursing Care Center, Arline Ulrich. Emma Nitschke stepped down as the Humanitarian Committee chair and Susan Kohleffel was appointed to take her place. In her committee report, Mary Schroeder said get-well cards were sent to Atlin Gabler, Arline Ulrich and Bill Michalke. Bill and Delores Michalke made a donation in the memory of Eunice Brosch. Members agreed to make a donation to the Texas Ramp Project for people with special needs. This project covers Colorado, Fayette and Lee counties. Frank Smith is TRP regional coordinator. President Moeller read a letter from the Home Office that the lodge met its membership goal for 2023. – Junette Rodecap
Page 20– Hermann Sons Life – March 2024
Shining Stars
Sign up to be a Shining Star! April 1, 2024, is the deadline to become a Shining Star and get free admission to this summer’s Family Fun Day at Fiesta Texas!
Down 1. The Irish flag is green, white and _______. 2. St. Patrick’s Day originated in this country. 3. A four leaf _______ will bring you good luck. 4. The month St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated in. 6. This appears in the sky after it rains. 8. The capital of Ireland.
Shining Stars are featured in the Hermann Sons Life newspaper and on the Hermann Sons Life website. They also receive a fun packet in the mail. To register, fill out the form below or the online form at hermannsonslife.org. Go to Member Benefits-Shining Stars. Be sure to include a photo. For more information, contact Leonni Avalos at 800-234-4124, ext. 238.
Across 5. This bearded man wears a green suit and hat. 7. If you do not wear green on St. Patrick’s Day you might get _______. 9. At the end of a rainbow, you might find a pot of _______. 10. The color usually worn on St. Patrick’s Day.
l 1 ay pri n D y A y Fu e b amil Du fy for F uali
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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._______________________________________________________
Basket Bonnet Bunny
Candy Chicks Chocolate
Daffodil Decorate Ducks
Dye Easter Eggs
Family Flowers Grass
Happy Hunt Jellybeans
Lily Parade Peeps
Rabbit Spring Sunday
Tradition Tulips
Puzzle answers on Pg. 9