May2017

Vol. 120, No. 7

May 2017

InsIde Mary Beam announces retirement ➤ Pg. 4

Lodges celebrate anniversaries ➤ Pgs. 6-7

All members invited to outing at Schlitterbahn ➤ Pg. 13

hermannsonslife.org

Madison Dziuk

Haley Miller

Haley Trainer

Three Hermann Sons junior members earn scholarships COMFORT – Three former campers have been selected to receive this year’s Hermann Sons Youth Camp-Shannon Leigh Gaffney Scholarships. They are Madison Dziuk, a member of Karnes City Lodge; Haley Miller, a member of Waco-Robinson Lodge; and Haley Trainer, a member of Lone Oak Lodge.

Each scholarship is worth $1,000.

Graduating high school seniors submitted applications, reference letters, their scholastic records and essays about how being a Hermann Sons camper helped to shape the people they are today.

Madison Dziuk, daughter of Karen and Rodney Dziuk, attends Falls City High School and plans to study kinesiology at Texas A&M University at College Station. She wants to earn her doctorate in pediatric medicine.

Madison has been involved in numerous organizations including band, cheerleading, FFA, UIL Academics and multiple athletic teams. She also volunteers regularly through

her church, Holy Trinity Catholic Church, and has also spent two years volunteering with Christus Santa Rosa Hospital of San Antonio as a Child Life volunteer.

In her essay, Madison shared: Camp was definitely a time to find yourself and make new friends. And, I took it in and treasured every moment! As I became older, I realized that I wanted to give back to this incredible organization, which had done so much for me! I found my time in this capacity to be the most rewarding as I witnessed other young girls embark on their own journeys.

Hermann Sons Life is just that - LIFE! Through this amazing organization, I have grown up with HSYC, as it has been a huge part of my life. It has instilled in me a sense of purpose and established a commitment in all that I do, and I have become better prepared for the road ahead. As a result, I have gained the confidence to persevere in all my endeavors, and have acquired the knowledge to be an effec-

tive listener and leader. I will be forever thankful to HSYC, as it has influenced my career path to work with the medical needs of children in the field of pediatrics. I had never imagined that my life would be so significantly and positively changed by attending HSYC! As my college journey begins, I will forever be grateful for the memories and life lessons that have shaped me into the career-minded individual that I am today!

Haley Miller, daughter of Paula and Trey Miller, is a senior at Waco High School where she will graduate as the valedictorian of her class. She will be attending Texas A&M University at College Station. She has already been accepted to the Mays College of Business Honors Program and plans on studying political science. Miller plans on working as a defense attorney or prosecutor once she has completed her studies. Throughout high See FORMER, Pg. 14

Page 2 – Hermann Sons Life – May 2017 USPS 242200 Periodicals Postage Paid at San Antonio, Texas Published Monthly by ORDER OF THE SONS OF HERMANN

515 S. St. Mary’s St. San Antonio, Texas 78205 POSTMASTER:

Send address changes to: Hermann Sons Life P.O. Box 1941 San Antonio, TX 78297-1941 HOME OFFICE:

515 S. St. Mary’s Street P.O. Box 1941 San Antonio, Texas 78297-1941 210-226-9261 or 1-800-234-4124 Fax: 210-226-3055 Hermann Sons Life-Camp 830-995-3223 GRAND LODGE OFFICERS PAST GRAND PRESIDENT

Leroy Muehlstein PAST GRAND PRESIDENT

Stephen R. Prewitt GRAND PRESIDENT/CEO

Allan W. “Buddy” Preuss GRAND VP-SECRETARY/TREASURER

Mary Beam GRAND VP-INVESTMENTS

Harry Werland GRAND VP-MARKETING

Timothy P. Kolbe GRAND VP-FRATERNAL

Kimberly A. Krueger GRAND FINANCE COMMITTEE

Wilburn Pargmann Sandra Jones Janice Kuhen Paul Heath Jack Larned RETIREMENT HOME COMMITTEE Ruth Bailey Frank Brandon Norma Bruns Jean Dueitt Calvin Lamensky GRAND PHYSICIAN Dr. Richard Hannigan YOUTH ACTIVITIES COMMITTEE Janice Fait Debbie Jordan Tammy Kelley Ed Kurtz Amanda Deicke Grand Guide Bob Jungman Grand Inner Guard Stan Steiger Grand Outer Guard LAWS COMMITTEE David Lewis Glenn Altwein James Lowak Donnie Blinka Jeanette Preuss Glenford Boehme Calvin Rueter John Bradley Howard Saathoff Agnes Dreibrodt Tim Salge Lillian Franckowiak Don Saunders Debbie Gold Andy Schellenberg Karen Harborth Irene Schwertner Robert Herridge Joe Trojacek Milton Ihlo Lee Vogel Jerry Don Klose Ronald Wiatrek Oscar Kuehner Billy Lehde

President’s Message

There is so much to celebrate in May! The Grand Lodge officers and staff have been preparing for the Grand Lodge Convention, which happens only once every four years. Delegates, representing their lodges and our entire membership, will gather in early May in San Marcos for this threeday meeting to vote on committee reports and elect representatives to our Board of Directors.

The Convention program is packed with great educational content and entertainment. I am looking forward to visiting with Convention delegates and conducting the business of our Order.

Convention will also be a time to honor a dear colleague and friend, Grand Vice PresidentSecretary/Treasurer Mary Beam.

Sister Beam celebrated 50 years of employment with the Home Office last year and she will be retiring at the Convention.

Mary is well-known and wellloved across the state and in our Home Office. It has been a pleasure to work with her each day and to work with her as a part of the Executive Committee and Grand Committee. I know that the members and staff will miss interacting with her in her officer capacity, but I also know that Mary will remain active in Hermann Sons and continue to be a loyal fraternalist. On behalf of our staff and the numerous

Vice President-Secretary/Treasurer (Operations) Pending approval of changes to Grand Lodge Laws at the Grand Lodge Convention, applications will be accepted for the position of Vice President-Secretary/Treasurer (Operations).

To read the job description and a list of core competencies and to apply for the position, go to hermannsonslife.org. Click on Contact Us and then Employment-Home Office. For more information, email buddyp@hermannsonslife.org.

Standing Committees

members who have had the opportunity to know Mary, we wish her the best in her retirement. To read more about her accomplishments and time with the Home Office, please read the article that starts on Page 4.

After Convention, if Grand Lodge Laws changes are accepted, I will interview candidates for the Vice President of Operations position so a recommendation can be made to the Board of Directors. If you are interested in more information on this position please contact me at buddyp@hermannsonslife.org.

You can complete an application online at www.hermannsonslife.org. Just click on Contact Us, then Employment-Home Office.

After Convention I also will be meeting with the Vice Presidents to select members to our Grand Lodge Standing Committees to be presented to the Board of Directors for approval.

Our Standing Committees are

Pending approval of changes to Grand Lodge Laws at the Grand Lodge Convention, there will be positions available on four Standing Committees. They are Members Benefits, Community Engagement, Business Operations and Laws.

To read more about these committees and to complete a Standing Committee Request Form indicating your interest in serving on one of these committees, go to hermannsonslife.org.

Click on Contact Us and then Employment-Standing Committee Request. an important part of our representative form of government and give members a voice in key areas of Hermann Sons and encourage innovation in specific areas of business and programs served. To learn more about requesting an assignment to one of these committees go to our website and complete a Committee Request Form. Just click on Contact Us, then Employment-Standing Committee Request.

We will also celebrate awardwinning agents at the Agents’ Awards Weekend in May. All agents who qualified for one of

"Hugs from Home"

Give us the name and address of someone who is serving in Iraq or Afghanistan and we will add them to our "Hugs from Home" list of care package recipients.

Name ______________________________________ Address Line 1 _______________________________ Address Line 2 _______________________________ Address Line 3 _______________________________ Deployment Dates ____________________________ Clip and mail to:

Hermann Sons Grand Lodge P.O. Box 1941 San Antonio, TX 78297-1941 Attention: Fraternal Department

Sthe production clubs for 2016 will gather at a banquet to be held in Kerrville. The success of our agents directly impacts our members and Grand Vice President-Marketing Tim Kolbe and I enjoy recognizing the accomplishments of our most successful agents each year.

It continues to be a joy to do the work of our Order and serve our members and I will continue to focus on building our successes while protecting our beloved traditions.

Fraternally, Buddy Preuss Grand President/CEO

Donations make ‘Hugs’ from Home’ possible SAN ANTONIO – Donations continue to be made so that more “Hugs from Home” can be sent to military personnel serving overseas.

The latest donors to the program were: Houston Lodge Hondo Victory Lodge Karnes City Lodge

Henrietta Fenner Shirley Carver Taylor Lodge

If you would like to make a donation, send it to: Hermann Sons Grand Lodge, P.O. Box 1941, San Antonio, TX 78297-1941, Attention: Fraternal Department. If you know someone serving overseas and would like for him/her to receive a care package, fill out the form to the left and mail it to the same address.

May 2017 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 3

Official Bulletin - Grand Vice President-Secretary/Treasurer

Mary Beam retiring at Grand Lodge Convention As this issue of the paper is being delivered to our members, delegates and guests will be on their way to attend the 47th Grand Lodge Convention in San Marcos at the Embassy Suites Hotel and Conference Center.

Delegates are an important part of these meetings. Our organization relies on the member decisions made at our quadrennial conventions. It is important to look to the future with knowledge, good leadership and sound planning. Hermann Sons was founded in 1840 and through this solid foundation, we continue with sound ideals and good business acumen.

Maybe this will be easier in writing, considering the many tears I have already shed about one of the most important and difficult decisions of my life. After many months of thought and discussion with my family, I have decided to retire at the end of my current term as Grand Vice President-Secretary/ Treasurer, which will be the 47th Grand Lodge Con-

vention.

My 50-year career at this wonderful organization has been amazing including 31 years as an employee and 19 years as a Grand Lodge officer and member of the Grand Committee.

The opportunities and educational experiences afforded me through these many years, the many loyal and dedicated people I have worked with, equal years of happy times, many memories and lasting friendships will always be reminders of how special Hermann Sons is to me.

I will be forever thankful to each of the Grand Presidents I worked under. All six Grand Presidents taught me different values about the business and insurance world through their own experiences.

I came to Hermann Sons as a college freshman working in the Membership Department (now known as Underwriting) and the story unfolds from there.

I thank my lucky stars for the employment offer so

many years ago that lead to such a rewarding and fulfilling career.

I have worked in nearly all phases of the organization, along with the local lodges and agents. Our members are the best and keep the organization strong through their dedication, strong values and community spirit. We are a statewide team that supports the effort to maintain the high standing of Hermann Sons.

From the beginning of its existence as a benevolent organization to what we are today in 2017, Hermann Sons remains the best and most highly respected and financially solvent fraternal insurance society in the state.

I am proud of my tenure. Thank you Hermann Sons for allowing me to serve this many years in the spirit of Friendship, Love and Loyalty. I will miss all of you!

Fraternally, Mary Beam Grand Vice President-Secretary/Treasurer

Events children ages 6 to 17 - members and non-memMAY-JUNE The 32 Schools of Dance sponsored by Hermann bers - who have experienced the loss of a parent Sons will hold their end-of-year recitals. Turn to or sibling. Camper applications are now being accepted at hermannsonslife.org. For more informaPage 14 for a complete schedule. tion, see Pg. 17.

JUNE JULY-AUGUST 10 – The annual Open House at Hermann SonsCamp will be held today. Open House offers 29-30 and 5-6 – The annual Hermann Sons campers and their parents a chance to tour the facilities and take part in Camp activities before the summer season begins. The pool will be open and lunch will be served. Hours are 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m.

State Bowling Tournament will be held at Dart Bowl in Austin. Deadline to enter is July 1. The entry form and tournament rules can be found on Pg. 10.

AUGUST 11-12 – Pershing Lodge members and guests 5 – The annual Hermann Sons Youth Camp-

will travel to Coushatta Casino Resort by bus. Shannon Leigh Gaffney Scholarship Fund Bowl-aFor more information, contact Terri Armstrong at thon will be held at Oak Hills Lanes in San Anto210-378-0319. nio. For more information, go to hermannsonslife.

17 – All Hermann Sons members are invited to org/bowl. be a part of Family Fun Day at Schlitterbahn in 19 – The Goodtime Polka and Waltz Dance Club New Braunfels. Tickets are being offered at a dis- of New Braunfels will host a dance from 7-11 p.m. counted price and include lunch at the park. See at Eagles Hall, 257 E. South St., New Braunfels. The Page 13 for all the details.

Czechaholics of Moravia will provide the music.

Call 830-620-6787 or 830-660-4866 for more inJULY formation. Memberships available at the sign-in 5-8 – The first Grief Support Session at Hermann table. Guests welcome. No shorts please.

Sons-Camp will be held. This session is open to If you would like to see your lodge’s event listed here and in the Events section of the Hermann Sons Life website, call Kathie Ninneman, 210-226-9261, ext. 273, or 1-800-234-4124, ext. 273, or email kathien@hermannsonslife.org.

Editor/Communications Director Kathie Ninneman 210-226-9261, ext. 273 email: kathien@hermannsonslife.org Assistant Editor/Assistant Communications Director Elaine Soto 210-226-9261, ext. 279 email: elaines@hermannsonslife.org Fax: 1-888-443-3377 or 210-892-0252 Website: www.hermannsonslife.org All news articles and photographs should be mailed to: Editor Hermann Sons Life P.O. Box 1941 San Antonio, TX 78297-1941 or emailed to: kathien@hermannsonslife.org Deadline for each monthly issue is the 10th of the month of publication.

The Hermann Sons Life newspaper is an official publication of the Order of the Sons of Hermann in the State of Texas. The management and editorial policy of the newspaper shall be in the hands of the Grand President, and the Grand President shall have the authority to appoint a member or members of Hermann Sons as editor and/or business manager thereof (Art. 38, Grand Lodge Laws).

Page 4 – Hermann Sons Life – May 2017

Mary Beam retiring after 50 years of service SAN ANTONIO – She came to work for Hermann Sons as an 18-year-old college student who needed a part-time job . Now 50 years (and a few months) later, Mary Beam is leaving as Grand Vice President-Secretary/Treasurer .

Sister Beam has announced that she is retiring at the end of her current term in office, which coincides with the 47th Grand Lodge Convention set to begin April 30 in San Marcos .

She has held her current position since Jan . 8, 1998 . That’s when she was appointed to succeed Lela Mae Fields who was retiring .

Grand Vice President-Secretary/Treasurer is the last position she has held with Hermann Sons but it is only one of many roles she has filled with the organization that she dearly loves .

She started in the Membership Department

where she worked part-time while she was studying business at San Antonio College . She graduated from Providence High School, an all-girls Catholic school in San Antonio, and received her associate’s degree in business from San Antonio College and then attended St .

Mary’s University where she also studied business .

She remembers that when she first started working at the Home Office, she was the youngest employee by about 20 years .

She also filled in for people who were on vacation in the summer so she got experience in other areas . Fritz Schilo was Grand President at the time .

Her full-time employment started in 1969 in the Membership Department where she processed applications . In those days, there was

no underwriter on staff so the company doctor would come in every day and review the applications . She noted that back then everything was done by hand .

In 1974, Grand President Henry Riemer asked her to become his secretary . And she remained the administrative assistant for the next two Grand Presidents, Louis Engelke and Leroy Muehlstein . That’s a total of 23 years in that position .

She has also worked with Steve Prewitt and Buddy Preuss while they served as Grand President .

That’s a total of six Grand Presidents . And she says she has learned something from each one of them .

See MARY, Pg. 13

Mary Beam

Inside Lodge Reports Albert Kypfer . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Anton Wenzel . . . . . . . . . . . .30 Austin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 Bandera County . . . . . . . . . .27 Bernardo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Boerne . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Brenham . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Brunhilde . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Cameron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Castroville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 Cibolo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 Columbia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28 Columbus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 Corpus Christi . . . . . . . . . . . .29 Cuero Family . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 DaCosta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Dallas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Deanville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Dunlay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Edelweiss-Magnolia . . . . . .17 Ellinger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Fort Worth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 Fredericksburg . . . . . . . . . . .25 Gay Hill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28 Giddings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

Helotes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28 Highland Lakes . . . . . . . . . . .26 Houston . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 Kerrville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Kirby . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Lockhart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28 Louise Schuetze . . . . . . . . . .29 Maxwell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 McGregor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Mission-Alamo . . . . . . . . . . .22 New Bielau . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 New Braunfels . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Paige . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Paul Vogt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 Pershing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Plum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Rosenberg-Richmond . . . .26 Rutersville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Schulenburg . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Shelby . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Siemering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 Stern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 Taylor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Vineta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 Womack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

Monthly Features 2 2 3 3 10 10 10 11 11, 13 12

Grand President’s Message Donations made to send ‘Hugs’ Calendar of Events Grand Vice President-Secretary/Treasurer’s Bulletin Memorial donations Form provided for making donations Retirement Home News In Memoriam of Our Deceased Members Medical Notes Pioneer Members

2 4, 13 6 7 8 8 9-10 13

Officer, committee positions available Mary Beams announces retirement plans Schwertner Lodge marks 100th anniversary Gulf Lodge marks 125th anniversary Pat Saunier retires after 27 years as underwiter Heinsohn takes role as new underwriter Bowling tournament set for Austin Schlitterbahn event now open to all members

5 5 5 7 32

March recommenders recognized Looking for a few good people to serve as agents Top producers of first quarter listed Retiring agents honored Listing of agents

1, 14-15 14 15 15 16 16 17 17 32

Three earn Camp scholarships Dance recital dates listed Summer jobs available at Camp Hondo lodge offers graduates cash prizes Campers can earn their registration fee back Hermann Sons-Camp proud of accreditation First grief support session set for July Answers to puzzles on Pg . 32 Shining Stars

New This Month

Marketing News

Youth in Action

Marketing

Looking for a few good men, women to sell life insurance

By TIM KOLBE Grand Vice President-Marketing Did you ever have a job that didn’t feel like a job? I mean do you love the work you do so much that it doesn’t feel like work? That’s the way I felt when I sold life insurance. In fact, I found it to be somewhat of a calling or a vocation if you will, and I found that to be very rewarding.

I felt that I was helping provide for the future financial protection of a young person, who also benefited from our great fraternal benefits such as camp, dance, scholarships, Family Fun Day and community service opportunities. Those are all great things that make Hermann Sons membership truly unique in our industry.

The most rewarding experience an agent can have is helping a parent (or any adult) understand how life insurance works, while providing information that leads them to secure adequate life insurance protection for themselves. Parents incur the most debt simply by being parents – hard working folks providing a quality life for their families.

The sudden loss of one parent can have catastrophic emotional and economic effects on the family. The Hermann Sons life insurance agent can play a vital role in future financial protection for the family.

Hermann Sons needs field agents who can commit to this dual mission of providing financial protection through life insurance and annuity sales, while bringing new members into our organization. Our agents are all Hermann Sons members, and many are very active in their respective lodges.

Let’s look at some traits that would contribute to the success of a sales agent.

– If you are a self-disciplined, results-oriented individual, confident in your abilities who persis-

tently works towards meeting established goals, Hermann Sons is looking for you.

– If you are adaptable to clients’ schedules and needs, and not tied to the 8 to 5 grind, Hermann Sons is looking for you.

– If you are someone who listens effectively, can use your interpersonal sensitivity to ask questions to derive need, and can then apply targeted problem solving to address needs with a focus on client success, Hermann Sons is looking for you.

– If you have an entrepreneurial drive and can gain client commitment by communicating the elevated value of our product solutions that benefit the member, Hermann Sons is looking for you.

– If you can use Home Office provided information and tools effectively to increase membership through sales and service and can not only be a team player, but a team builder by recruiting and leveraging your own client prospect referral stream, Hermann Sons is looking for you.

To learn more about our agent support system, and what is expected from a prospective agent, go to www.hermannsonslife.org and go to “Contact Us.” Select the “Sales Agent” page under “Employment” in the dropdown box. Once on the page, be sure to select the link “being an agent” in the last sentence. The agent’s prospectus will provide more information on the subject. An online application is available.

We added more than 20 agents in 2016 and three more thus far in 2017. We are always looking for a few good men and women to provide financial protection to Texas families, while growing our Hermann Sons family. If you believe you can help, after looking over the requirements, we would love to hear from you. Our direct Marketing line is 877-437-6266.

Three lead the way in first quarter SAN ANTONIO – Three agents are being honored for their sales production in the first quarter of 2017.

Shirley Huebinger of New Braunfels finished the quarter in first place statewide in the number of applications written category with 22. She finished second in the state in the amount of new premium income generated category with $9,613.

Carol Krauss of Seguin finished the quarter in first place statewide in the amount of new premium income generated category with $24,506. She finished in a tie for second in the state in the number of applications written category with eight.

Mary Koenig of Yoakum finished the quarter in a tie for second place statewide in the number of applications written category with eight. She was

third in the state in the amount of new premium income generated category with $8,936.

Special recognition goes to Marlin Tanneberger of La Vernia and Special Representative Teresa Saathoff who each wrote 14 applications and to Special Representative Gary Falkenberg for his 10 applications.

Special representatives earning special recognition for their premium income were Al Stryk with $30,644, Teresa Saathoff with $16,176 and Dan Boenig with $8,122.

Honorable mention in the applications written category goes to Linda Mattocks of Round Top and Sandra Jones of Fort Worth for eight each, Annette Roecker of Seguin and Special Representative Eulla Krueger for seven each and Ruth Bailey of San Antonio for her six.

May 2017 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 5

Johnson wins gift card for March recommenders The Marketing Department is recognizing 47 recommenders for the month of March. This brings the total to 95 members recommending 119 new members to Hermann Sons in 2017. The winner of the $100 gift card for March is Heather Cheatwood Johnson of Austin, a member of La Vernia Lodge.

Congratulations to the following March recommenders: Recommender Agent Betty Jo Beyer, Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge Al Stryk Mark Kevin Martinek, Columbia Lodge (^) Helen Brown Michelle Dawn Barbee, Seguin Lodge Annette Roecker Janell Biediger, La Coste Lodge Eulla May Krueger Lorna Jean Borgfeld, Gruenau Lodge Laura Tiffin Zoe B. Bosher, New Bern Lodge Shirley Faske Khloe Grace Canales, Castroville Lodge Eulla May Krueger Heather Cheatwood Johnson, La Vernia (*) Marlin Tanneberger Jennifer A. Cheatwood, La Vernia Lodge (*) Marlin Tanneberger William L. Clayton, Edelweiss-Magnolia Gerald Ziemnicki Joshua Robert Cox, La Vernia Lodge Marlin Tanneberger Bonnie Cypert, Pershing Lodge Carol Krauss Kambree Delgado, Castroville Lodge Eulla May Krueger Wanda Gashy Elizondo, Siemering (^) Eulla May Krueger Hannah Futchel, Kirby Lodge Angela Netherton Janie Alice Futrell, Pershing Lodge Eulla May Krueger Abigail L. Gorden, New Braunfels (^) Shirley Huebinger Eric Cole Guerrero, Pershing Lodge Eulla May Krueger Lori Ann Hamff, Giddings Lodge Eulla May Krueger Frank W. Kiel, Comfort Lodge Norma Bruns Albert Oscar Krueger, Macdona Lodge Eulla May Krueger Laura Jean Loeffler, Zuehl Lodge Lorene Bielke Edna May McCracken, Edelweiss-Magnolia Gary Falkenberg Breanna D. Nelson, Converse Lodge Dan Boenig Wesley Norris, Rosenberg-Richmond Dennis Wigginton Grace Lynn Pack, Giddings Lodge Loretta Chilek Kimberly Rene Padron, Bexar Lodge Veronica Ann Trejo Thomas J. Parker, Boerne Lodge Marilyn Vogt Darby M. Perdue, Zuehl Lodge Angela Netherton Kaitlin N. Quantz, New Braunfels Lodge Shirley Huebinger Laura Gayle Ramirez, San Marcos Lodge Janice Kuhen Doris Ruth Roehling, Gay Hill Lodge Donnie Blinka Abigail Christine Ross, Corpus Christi Troylyn Sisneros-Gonzalez Elden Edwin Schlinger, Harmonia Lodge Teresa Saathoff Monica Schustereit, Da Costa Lodge (*) Nancy Walraven Roy Keith Scudday, Lockhart Lodge Angela Netherton Susan Alice Skanse, Austin Lodge Julius Dubcak Kathleen H. Tarbox, Louise Schuetze Angela Netherton Jonathan Tarrillion, Cibolo Lodge (*) Pamela Poulk Isabelle Troncoso, Cibolo Lodge (*) Angela Netherton Tayton Vanwinkle, Brunhilde Lodge Carol Krauss Kylie Ann Villanueva, Seguin Lodge (*) Dan Boenig Marcia Karen Walters, Fort Worth (*) Sandra Jones Marcia Karen Walters, Fort Worth (^) Sandra Jones Michael John Wiedner, New Braunfels (^) Shirley Huebinger Bernice Gail Willis, Marion Lodge (*) Lorene Bielke Joni D. Withers, Gonzales Lodge Bobbie Polasek Gianna Nicole Wollny, Kirby Lodge Alayna Menzer (*) Recommended 2 new members (^) Recommended 3 new members

Page 6 – Hermann Sons Life – May 2017

Schwertner Lodge celebrates 100th anniversary SCHWERTNER – Schwertner Lodge celebrated its 100th anniversary on March 18 at the Schwertner Community Center.

Lodge President Irene Schwertner welcomed guests, Randall Schwertner gave the invocation and approximately 80 members, guests and officers from the Home Office enjoyed a meal featuring pork steak prepared by members Harold Kaderka, Darrell Marek and Gayle Jones and all the trimmings prepared by Cross Roads Café.

After the meal Darrell Marek led the Pledge of Allegiance and gave a history of the lodge.

Charles Gersbach introduced Grand President Buddy Preuss.

Brother Gersbach recalled how he had hired Brother Preuss as a canoe instructor in 1978 when he was director at Hermann Sons-Camp.

Brother Preuss spoke about his memories of that time and complimented Schwertner Lodge on all its accomplishments.

He then presented Irene Schwertner with a plaque marking the anniversary.

Margaret Jones and Mona Rieger distributed the door prizes with help from Kimberlyn Lum and Samentha and Sarah Ziegler.

Irene Schwertner then thanked everyone for coming to help celebrate this milestone.

Schwertner Lodge No. 307 was chartered March 11, 1917. The charter members had a dream to make the lodge one of the best known in the area and wanted to work with the surrounding communities.

Several lodges have merged with the lodge through the years. Bernville Lodge No. 68 in Georgetown was chartered March 5, 1893, and merged with Schwertner Lodge on Jan. 1, 1945. At one time Walburg had two lodges. Walburg Lodge No. 160 was chartered Feb. 27, 1897, and merged with Bartlett Lodge No. 130 and Guemmetlekelt Lodge No. 69 also consolidated with Bartlett Lodge. The other Walburg Lodge consolidated with Schwertner Lodge. Then Bartlett Lodge No. 130, chartered Jan. 26, 1896, consolidated with Schwertner Lodge on Nov.

Charles Gersbach introduces Grand President Buddy Preuss during the Schwertner Lodge anniversary celebration.

Grand President Buddy Preuss presents Schwertner Lodge President Irene Schwertner with a plaque in recognition of the lodge’s 100th anniversary.

There was a large crowd in attendance for the Schwertner Lodge anniversary celebration.

Grand President/CEO Buddy Preuss speaks during the Schwertner Lodge anniversary celebration.

1, 1954. The latest merger occurred in 2012 when Temple-Belton Lodge No. 5 became a part of Schwertner Lodge.

The Schwertner Lodge Junior Charter was issued on Sept. 24, 1954, and became very active.

The junior members met once a month and made every effort to attend all meetings and functions. By attending the members could win points to go to Camp.

The junior members also enjoyed hayrides sponsored by Oscar and Thelma Schwertner.

About this time the first dance class was organized and Mrs. Mulholland taught tap, ballet and tumbling. As the members got older they learned to square dance and ballroom dance.

Dance classes were held every week and a recital was held at the end of the year.

Mothers helping with the dance class included Betty Schwertner, Melba Schwertner, Thelma Schwertner, Kathleen Wacker

and Shelia Krueger.

As the years passed and the lodges merged, the original dance classes ended. In September 1976, Randall and Irene Schwertner moved back to Schwertner with their two daughters.

Oscar Schwertner, president at that time, encouraged Irene to start another dance class.

At the time Irene was taking her daughters, Dawn and D’Ann, to dance classes in Pflugerville.

After performing at the Christmas recital, Irene convinced the dance instructor, Carol Benz, to start a dance class in Schwertner.

With the help of Sarah Estes, dance classes got started right away in January of 1977. These classes continued for 20 years and at one time there were 46 students taking dance. Several of those students were in attendance including Irene’s daughters, Diedra Schwertner, Jeanne Poppelz and April Gersbach.

Mothers who helped out at that

Grand President Buddy Preuss presents April Gersbach Marek with her 50-year membership pin. Her father Charles Gersbach looks on.

Sister Marek has been a member since Oct. 4, 1967. time included Lisa Schwertner, Ginger Krueger, Monica Martinka, Chris Brown, Sharon Kurtin, Pam Hightower and Lana Reese.

As these junior members got older they went on to become counselors at the Youth Camp.

Stanley and Melba Schwertner served on the Youth Activities Committee for more than 20 years and were active in the building of Hilltop Camp.

The lodge is an active supporter of the community.

For the past 20 years the lodge has donated funds to the Bartlett, Granger and Jarrell Vol-

unteer Fire Departments.

The lodge has partnered with First Baptist Church to host birthday parties at Will-O-Bell Nursing Home and has collected food and supplies for the Methodist food bank in Granger.

Twice the lodge has taken part in the Linus Connection program by making fleece blankets that are given to children during crisis situations.

And every August the lodge invites its high school seniors back for a dinner before they go off to college. Each one receives a small scholarship.

May 2017 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 7

Gulf Lodge celebrates 125th anniversary GALVESTON – Gulf Lodge No. 46 celebrated its 125th anniversary at Moody Gardens in Galveston on Sunday, March 26.

Master of Ceremonies Charles Rizzo opened the program welcoming all guests including the special guests from the Grand Lodge.

Pastor Richard Rhodes from First Lutheran Church of Galveston gave the invocation. Galveston City Council District 6 Councilwoman Carolyn Sunseri welcomed everyone to Galveston and presented a proclamation from the city issued in honor of the 125th anniversary.

Gulf Lodge Past President Richard Huepers gave a short history of the lodge. Everyone enjoyed hearing about past members and the activities and accomplishments of the lodge.

Grand President/CEO Buddy Preuss and lodge President Al Stryk presented Henry Wulf with his 70-year pin and thanked him for his many years of membership and contributions to Hermann Sons and Gulf Lodge. Brother Wulf has been a member since Jan. 27, 1947.

In his address, Grand President Preuss congratulated the lodge on its anniversary and applauded its service to the community and its members. He recognized the lodge’s agents, Al Stryk and Sarah Spencer.

Brother Stryk then spoke of the lodge’s accomplishments over the years. He introduced the current officers and past presidents. He remembered members Marion Brick, Doro-

The current officers of Gulf Lodge who attended the anniversary celebration included, back, from left, Financial Trustee Charles Head, Youth Coordinator Stella Head, Financial Trustee Gary Scales, front, from left, Communications Coordinator Ruby Wulf, Membership Coordinators Betty Mathison and Jerre Sue Massa, Community Coordinator Teresa Sanders-Smith, Secretary-Treasurer Sarah Spencer and President Al Stryk. Not pictured is Vice President Griselda Flores. thy Cathcart and Norman Smith who were dedicated members of the lodge.

He outlined some of the lodge’s annual activities. Each year lodge members volunteer at the Special Olympics in Dickinson. Since the reorganization of the lodge in 2005, 55 scholarships worth $1,000 each have been presented.

He thanked members for their support over the years and for organizing and making the 125th anniversary possible, especially Sarah Spencer who even baked the anniversary cake. He recognized Special Representative Gary Falkenberg, president of Houston Lodge, and Clyde Hannes for their help with the reorganization of the lodge Each of the Grand Vice Presi-

Grand President Buddy Preuss spoke at the Gulf Lodge anniversary celebration. He is pictured with wife Elizabeth. dents came to the podium and congratulated the lodge on its accomplishments. They are Grand Vice President-Secretary/ Treasurer Mary Beam, Grand Vice President-Investments

The past presidents of Gulf Lodge are pictured at the 125th anniversary celebration. They are, from left, Richard Huepers, Clyde Hannes, Henry Bennison and Al Stryk, current president.

Henry Wulf, center, received his 70-year membership pin during the Gulf Lodge anniversary celebration. He is pictured with Grand President Buddy Preuss, left, and lodge President Al Stryk.

Harry Werland, Grand Vice President-Fraternal Kim Krueger and Grand Vice President-Marketing

Tim Kolbe.

Door prizes included Grand Lodge cookbooks and gift cards.

Retiring agents honored Joyce Lamensky, left, a member of Rosenberg-Richmond Lodge, has retired as a Hermann Sons agent.

Grand Vice President-Marketing Tim Kolbe attended the lodge’s April meeting and presented Sister Lamensky with a certificate in honor of her 14 years of service to Hermann Sons. During that time she was named to the Executive Club and received several other awards. Katherine Akin, right, a member of Bryan Lodge, also has retired as an agent. She has been an agent since 1979. Brother Kolbe attended the lodge’s April meeting to present her with her certificate.

Page 8 – Hermann Sons Life – May 2017

Pat Saunier retires after 27 years as underwriter SAN ANTONIO – Pat Saunier, Hermann Sons underwriter for the past 27 years, was honored with a retirement party on Friday, March 31. The party, held in the Hall of Grand Presidents, was attended by Home Office staff, retirees, members of her family and other special guests.

In her remarks, Pat thanked everyone for coming and said, “It was always my goal to do the very best job for the company and to protect the company and work with the agents and make their jobs a little easier. I felt like I met those goals.”

Speaking of Hermann Sons, she said, “Friendship, Love and Loyalty – it really works and I hope it never changes. It’s what makes the company unique. I have worked for other companies and they were nowhere near as friendly as we are here.

We do a good job for all our members – and I hope that never changes. It’s one of the reasons I stayed here.”

She concluded, “I have enjoyed working with everyone.

Thank you for everything.”

Pat began her career at Hermann Sons on Jan. 8, 1990, after spending 14 years with American Security Life. In all, she has spent almost 55 years in the life insurance business.

She was instrumental in the development of the in-house Underwriting Department for Hermann Sons. Prior to her arrival, the work of the underwriter was done by Grand Physician Albert Stieler who came to the Home Office every day to review membership applications.

In her remarks about Pat, Grand Vice President-Secretary/ Treasurer Mary Beam, said, “Pat has been a part of many new developments and projects in Membership, Underwriting and Marketing. She has supervised, managed, redesigned forms, reformatted our insurance application many times and has worked diligently with our IT Department.”

She attended agent workshops and was a presenter for many years at the Continuing Education Workshop hosted

by Hermann Sons for licensed

Family and friends gathered March 31 to honor Pat Saunier on her retirement as the Hermann Sons underwriter. She is pictured with, from left, best friend Lane Dudley, grandson Cody Belor, daughter Lisa Belor, grandson Chris Belor and, in front, great-grandson Landen Lee Belor. agents.

Mary added, “She has a remarkable amount of knowledge of the insurance industry, holds many life insurance designations and has attended numerous educational seminars to keep abreast of what is happening in the underwriting field.”

Pat is originally from Iowa, but graduated from Harlandale High School in San Antonio. Her dad was in the Navy and was stationed in San Antonio. She has two children, son Daryl and daughter Lisa Belor, two grandsons, Chris and Cody Belor, and two great-grandsons, Landen Lee and Wyatt Carter.

She has been an active member of Hondo Victory Lodge since Aug. 9, 1990. She currently serves as vice president but has served as the lodge president and secretary/treasurer In closing, Mary said, “Pat has been a wonderful employee, underwriter and good friend to all of us. She sticks by the rules, knows what is best for the company and has a great work ethic.”

Grand President Buddy Preuss echoed those comments when he said, “Pat has been a joy and blessing to work with. She is loving, kind, respectful and helpful.

Everyone here is going to miss her. There is a wealth of information walking out that door

with her.”

Grand Vice President-Investments Harry Werland added, “People say you were tough but they were really complimenting you for a job well done.”

Grand Vice President-Marketing Tim Kolbe said, “She has been a great asset to the Marketing Department. Her worth is far and above anything you would put on any scale.”

Grand Vice President-Fraternal Kim Krueger called her “a true fraternalist” who was always ready to help with Join Hands Day and other service programs.

Pat Saunier is pictured with the cake that was decorated in her honor for her retirement party held at the Home Office on March 31.

Heinsohn takes role as new underwriter SAN ANTONIO – Amy Heinsohn is the new Hermann Sons underwriter. She takes over from Pat Saunier who has retired after 27 years in the position.

Amy has worked in the Home Office Underwriting Department for a little more than two years but has worked in the life insurance business since 2005 and has experience in sales, underwriting and customer service. She is a licensed life and property and casualty agent and has worked for Farm Bureau and Nationwide Her husband, Eric, is employed by CPS Energy. Their son, Zachary, is currently a student at Blinn College but will transfer to Texas A&M in the fall. Daughter Madison is a student at La Vernia High School.

The family keeps busy with FFA and sporting events and are members of Immanuel Lutheran Church in La Vernia.

Amy Heinsohn, right, will assume the role of underwriter now that Pat Saunier has retired.

May 2017 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 9

State bowling tournament set for Austin AUSTIN – The 2017 Hermann Sons Statewide Bowling Tournament will be held July 29-30 and Aug. 5 and 6 at Dart Bowl in Austin.

Here are the rules for the tournament.

1. At least three members of the team must be a member of Hermann Sons as of July 28, 2017. Only one non-member per team is allowed.

2. Non-USBC bowlers may pay an affiliate membership fee of $20, which will provide high score recognition.

3. Handicap is 90 percent from 220 for each bowler per event.

4. IMPORTANT - READ CAREFULLY: It shall be each bowler’s responsibility to determine that the submitted average is correct. Failure to use the correct average shall disqualify the score if submitted average is lower than correct average thereby resulting in a lower classification or more handicap.

Prize winnings shall be based on the submitted average if it is higher than the correct average.

However, corrections in averages may be permitted up to the completion of the first game of a series. Every entry blank must have each bowler’s highest USBC Certified 2015-2016 book average based on 21 games or more at the time of participation in the tournament. Bowlers not having a 2015-2016 average must use highest 20162017 book average based on 21 games. Bowlers not having 2015-2016 or 2016-2017 book average must use 2017 Summer average of nine games or more in one league at time of participation. Bowlers not having any of the above averages must enter with a scratch average of 220 for the first nine games bowled in the tournament. Bowlers will then establish a tournament average to be used the following year. Bowlers not having any of the above averages, but who bowled nine games in the 2016 tournament may use the average for those nine games in the 2017 tournament. USBC Rule See BOWLING, Pg. 10

Page 10 – Hermann Sons Life – May 2017

Bowling tournament rules outlined for 2017

Cont’d. from Pg. 9 319(A-2) is waived (10 or more pins increase in average). A: 2015-2016 yearbook average. B: 2016-2017 yearbook average. C: Summer 2017 average (nine games or more in one sanctioned league at time of participation).

5. All bowlers must check in 30 minutes before scheduled to bowl and should present their current USBC Certified card.

6. Entry closing date is July 1.

7. Any appeal or protest must be made prior to the payment of prizes. USBC Rule #329.

8. Make check payable to HER-

MANN SONS STATE BOWLING TOURNAMENT. 9. All entries must be sent to the Tournament Manager no later than July 1 . All entries postmarked the first post office business day following the entry closing date shall be accepted. Tournament director reserves the right to accept applications up to the beginning of bowling as long as lanes are available.

10. NO ENTRIES WILL BE RECORDED UNTIL MONEY IS RECEIVED. 11. No entry fee will be returned after being received.

12. Entry fee is $17 per event. All Events is $4 optional.

13. 100 percent of the prize money will be returned to bowlers.

14. All winners’ averages will be verified before distribution of prize fund.

15. Prize ratio will be at least one for every five entries in team, singles and doubles.

16. Prize ratio for All Events will be one prize for every 20 entries.

17. Plaques will be awarded to each event’s first place winners.

18. Multiple participation will not be allowed, except in cases of emergency where a bowler who has not participated already can not be found. At least three officers of the Executive Board must ap-

Retirement Home COMFORT – Guests at the Retirement Home in March were James and Vickie Dunham, Glenn Marvin and Debra Hundley and Bobby R. Wilbanks from Columbia Lodge; Glenn and Selena Wood, Lovington, N.M.; John and Sherri Strickland, DaCosta Lodge; Crystal Livingston, Austin Lodge; Kenneth and Emily Wallace, Pershing Lodge; Frank Hedges, Kerrville Lodge; Jeffrey Anderson, Dustin Broll, Chris and Melissa Hosinski and Scott and Suelyn Wolf from Yorktown Lodge; Don and JoEllen Love, Austin; Ashley Nail, Helotes Lodge; Torey Deike,

Harmonia Lodge; Debbie and Jerome Kiolbassa, Zuehl Lodge; Sissi Ormsby and Steven Payton, St. Hedwig; Robert Boring; Kei Ratuy, Hermann Sons Northwest dancer; Joe Owens, Kerrville; Julie Sheldon, Seguin; Glenn and Edie Hellums, Poth Lodge; Elaine Keating, Comfort Lodge; plus many participants and visitors during the Chili and Bean Cook-Off. We thank EVERYBODY who helped in any way towards making our Chili and Bean Cook-Off a success. We hope to see all of you again next year!

Celebrating birthdays in March

were Al Schroeder, Harvey Tegtmeyer and Jane Haberman.

Cake and ice cream were served at the noon meal on March 26.

Chapel service and Holy Communion were conducted March 27 by Anglican Priest David Guthrie with resident Al Schroeder assisting with communion and resident Kathy Bender playing the piano.

Residents were treated to a special afternoon of music, songs and ice cream hosted by Bandera County Lodge and the San Antonio Ukulele Ladies and Gents on April 1.

- Helen Widner

MEMORIAL DONATION FORM Name of Deceased:

Please print

Acknowledgement from Retirement Home Retirement Home Scholarship Fund

Camp Camp Scholarship Fund Grief Support Session at Camp

to go to: Name: City, State, Zip: Donor:

Donations to the Retirement Home in Memory of: LUCILE M. RYBAK Donor: Da Costa Lodge BURNICE NOBLE CLIFFORD DEAN GOURLEY NELL LINEBARGER Donors: Bob & Yvonne Reimers Robbins ELLEN L. WIBLE Donor: Cat Spring Lodge DAVID BRIETZKE Donor: La Vernia Lodge JOYCE L. HOFFMANN Donor: Ellinger Lodge

JOHN s. JOCKUsCH MELVIN A. THIELE JAMEs M. DIETZMANN JOHN GLEN MURPHY WILLIAM M. PORTER JR. DONALD ALAN NEAL WAYNE DAVID WURZ DAN TRACE DETMAR JR. WAYNE J. WOLFF DAVID J. MONTAGUE CHARLEs C. NEAL WILLIAM MOORE BENNETT ROGER sCHAEFER KURT VOss sR. HERBERT M. HEDTKE EARL ALFRED OLFERs EDWIN H. sCHLINGER Donor: Harmonia Lodge

Donations to the Retirement Home Scholarship Fund in Memory of:

KENNETH M. COWAN Donor: Paige Lodge

City, State, Zip: Date:

Memorial Donations

Donations to the Camp in Memory of:

Please print

Address:

on July 29 at 12 noon.

– Singles/Doubles - Saturday, July 29 and Aug. 5, at 8:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.

– Team - Sunday, July 30 and Aug. 6, at 11 a.m.

Additional squads may be added during the course of the tournament, however no squad may be added after the final squad on Aug. 6 at 11 a.m. unless tournament is extended due to number of entries and upon approval of USBC. Secretary may drop squad if not enough bowlers.

24. Two free team entries for 2017 tournament (one male and one female) will be drawn for at the Annual Meeting on July 29.

25. Lanes will be dressed after each squad.

sHIRLEY RUPPEL Donor: New Braunfels Lodge

Please print

Address:

prove the substitute. This can only occur in the Team Event and Doubles Event. The decision of the Executive Board shall be final unless an appeal is made in accordance with Rule 329.

19. Two separate tournaments with two separate prize lists: one for USBC female members only and one for USBC male members only.

20. Average Adjustment USBC Rule 319E will apply.

21. No previous prize winnings need be reported.

22. USBC Rules will prevail in all instances not herein covered.

23. SQUAD TIMES (TEAM CAPTAIN WILL BE NOTIFIED OF DATE TO BOWL): – Opening ceremony will be held

Amount: $ Clip and mail with your memorial contribution to: Hermann Sons Home Office, P.O. Box 1941, San Antonio, TX 78297-1941.

ELROY H. HUPE Donor: Rosenberg-Richmond Lodge

ROSELYN VASUT Donor: La Grange Lodge

May 2017 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 11

Medical Notes Insulin plays a key role in metabolic functions in the body.

People with diabetes have an intimate knowledge of insulin, particularly if they do not produce enough naturally. However, the rest of the public may be less knowledgeable about the role of insulin and its impact on

overall health.

Insulin is produced in the pancreas of the human body. Its most important function is the way it interacts with glucose (blood sugar) to allow the cells of the body to use that glucose as energy. Insulin can be viewed as a type of key that unlocks the

cells and enables glucose to enter. The pancreas senses when there is a spike in glucose in the bloodstream and reacts by producing insulin.

According to the Hormone Health Network, insulin also works to ensure the liver stores excess glucose so that it is not

actively in the blood. Stored glucose is called glycogen. This glycogen can be converted into fat when it is needed. Insulin also affects other metabolic processes, such as the breakdown of protein or fat.

If insulin is not being produced in the right amounts, the result

is high blood sugar, or hyperglycemia. Chronic hyperglycemia is the hallmark of diabetes mellitus. Complications of high blood sugar include damage to the nervous system, kidneys, eyes and the extremities.

eleanor l. bonn Kirby Lodge Died Nov. 29, 2014 • Age 79

otelia m. mudd Hochheim-Prairie Lodge Died Nov. 5, 2016 • Age 95

ronald p. franklin Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge Died Jan. 11, 2017 • Age 76

mark t. quinters Waco-Robinson Lodge Died Feb. 12, 2017 • Age 74

mary a. styra Yorktown Lodge Died March 1, 2017 • Age 88

elmer a. herbort Twin Sisters Lodge Died May 20, 2015 • Age 86

richard leeder jr.

Paul Vogt Lodge Died Nov. 12, 2016 • Age 86

verna b. kaminski Washington Lodge Died Jan. 13, 2017 • Age 84

sydonia m. sonntag Shiner Lodge Died Feb. 13, 2017 • Age 91

keith e. rollins Siemering Lodge Died March 2, 2017 • Age 84

melinda garner Lockhart Lodge Died Oct. 26, 2015 • Age 92

irene s. thatcher Bryan Lodge Died Nov. 18, 2016 • Age 97

craig n. voelkel Nordheim Lodge Died Jan. 19, 2017 • Age 62

clifford d. gourley San Marcos Lodge Died Feb. 15, 2017 • Age 79

lelsie d. haas Flatonia Lodge Died March 3, 2017 • Age 96

ira mae hinze Round Top Lodge Died May 15, 2016 • Age 89

william c. kasberg Pershing Lodge Died Nov. 28, 2016 • Age 76

dorothy j. cathcart Gulf Lodge Died Jan. 24, 2017 • Age 85

edward l. bitzkie jr.

Twin Sisters Lodge Died Feb. 17, 2017 • Age 62

james siebold Harmonia Lodge Died March 4, 2017 • Age 76

anne rose finch Gonzales Lodge Died Aug. 18, 2016 • Age 93

carol ann staats New Braunfel Lodge Died Dec. 4, 2016 • Age 71

j.e. morgenroth Siemering Lodge Died Jan. 25, 2017 • Age 80

richard alan kurka Siemering Lodge Died Feb. 19, 2017 • Age 69

milton j. bernhard Kerrville Lodge Died March 4, 2017 • Age 90

wilburn g. krause San Marcos Lodge Died Sept. 9, 2016 • Age 83

robert louis kainer El Campo Lodge Died Dec. 5, 2016 • Age 70

bernice campbell Nagel Lodge Died Jan. 26, 2017 • Age 91

georgina hernandez El Paso Lodge Died Feb. 19, 2017 • Age 101

sandra jean williams Vineta Lodge Died March 6, 2017 • Age 64

martha nell moeller Haskell Lodge Died Sept. 18, 2016 • Age 78

adeline hoyer carter Fredericksburg Lodge Died Dec. 11, 2016 • Age 88

janice sue jochec New Braunfels Lodge Died Jan. 30, 2017 • Age 64

joyce l. hoffmann Ellinger Lodge Died Feb. 20, 2017 • Age 76

derajean fuhrken Orange Grove Lodge Died March 6, 2017 • Age 86

jeanine s. schneider La Vernia Lodge Died Sept. 27, 2016 • Age 51

edwin a. klimek Bryan Lodge Died Dec. 23, 2016 • Age 86

joyce marie keller Paul Vogt Lodge Died Feb. 2, 2017 • Age 85

herbert h. hedtke Harmonia Lodge Died Feb. 21, 2017 • Age 98

carolyn ann helmers Fredericksburg Lodge Died March 10, 2017 • Age 67

donald alan neal Harmonia Lodge Died Sept. 27, 2016 • Age 67

louise duecker Austin Lodge Died Dec. 25, 2016 • Age 89

dolores a. schumann New Braunfels Lodge Died Feb. 5, 2017 • Age 87

arlie kreger Pershing Lodge Died Feb. 22, 2017 • Age 91

bessie louise steen Round Rock Lodge Died March 17, 2017 • Age 105

walter schlinke Nordheim Lodge Died Sept. 30, 2016 • Age 98

gladys marie jaeger Giddings Lodge Died Jan. 7, 2017 • Age 86

j.a. hockstadt jr.

Siemering Lodge Died Feb. 8, 2017 • Age 84

bernice emshoff Brenham Lodge Died Feb. 23, 2017 • Age 85

stephanie f. stumpe Jourdanton Lodge Died March 18, 2017 • Age 90

nora l. spencer Vineta Lodge Died Sept. 30, 2016 • Age 105

edwin h. schlinger Harmonia Lodge Died Jan. 9, 2017 • Age 98

virginia r. stokes Orange Grove Lodge Died Feb. 9, 2017 • Age 72

earl alfred olfers Harmonia Lodge Died Feb. 24, 2017 • Age 67

ronald dean willis Yorktown Lodge Died March 19, 2017 • Age 70

j.e. mudd Hochheim-Prairie Lodge Died Oct. 21, 2016 • Age 94

laura b. imhoff Washington Lodge Died Jan. 10, 2017 • Age 46

dorothy l. dieringer Schulenburg Lodge Died Feb. 9, 2017 • Age 86

irene rittimann Kirby Lodge Died Feb. 26, 2017 • Age 100

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

See MEDICAL, Pg. 13

In Memoriam of Our Deceased Members

ruth y. gross Bernardo Lodge Died Jan. 10, 2017 • Age 89

robert l. charlton sr.

Waco-Robinson Lodge Died Feb. 28, 2017 • Age 85

Page 12 – Hermann Sons Life – May 2017

75 Years

bernice m. lehmann La Grange Lodge

70 Years ralph edward allen Austin Lodge

Pioneers

lee roy jahns robert l. jahns Seguin Lodge

carolyn cason patricia felkins Poth Lodge

60 Years

carl h. brockmann Rowena Lodge

dee ann schmidt max j. werkenthin jr.

Austin Lodge

leatrice scholtz Rutersville Lodge

kevin glenn krieg Coupland Lodge johnnie kopinitz jr. robert w. therrell Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge

dana d. lohrke mooney russell waldschmidt Pershing Lodge virginia l. bezency Rosenberg-Richmond Lodge

dorothy ann selzer Ellinger Lodge

charles m. hall Rowena Lodge teresa ann linebarger San Marcos Lodge

robert e. wehmeyer Bandera County Lodge

rosemarie hageman San Marcos Lodge

tracey gay nichols spartin Fort Worth Lodge

ray allen alex DaCosta Lodge

joyce m. flach robald louis pankratz Comfort Lodge

bruce j. brandes herbert b. ueckert Sealy Lodge

jeffrey glenn pehl sheri lynn pehl Fredericksburg Lodge

katherine ann bloch robert e. etlinger wilbert a. hollub Seguin Lodge

joyce e. krenmueller Dunlay Lodge

thomas h. eckel Dogwood Trail Lodge

philip c. lindsay Schwertner Lodge

charles s. jostes General Bee Lodge

pamela sue cope Shelby Lodge

marie c. dudley Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge

linda gay fain Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge

sharalynn s. sullivan Gonzales Lodge

norma dee davis meta claudine ray Shiner Lodge

donna l. beene Fort Worth Lodge

lu ellen abraham william r. dietel jean e. feller kathleen e. kunz don allen nagel Fredericksburg Lodge

dorothy bonkowski lillian e. doege Seguin Lodge

h.c. merchant Comfort Lodge

melvin w. straube Gruenau Lodge john carlton langhoff Hochheim-Prairie Lodge

laverne h. zapalzc Shelby Lodge vada b. cooper jr.

Siemering Lodge

michael brown Harmonia Lodge fred w. bader jr. garland joe bader frank david nehr jr.

Hondo Lodge melissa ann brieden robin ann conover mary e. mangold Hondo Victory Lodge

suzanne v. pointer Twin Sisters Lodge

charles m. muskiet Houston Lodge

james eric berne jr. myron k. blain robert stanford busby arthur g. germer jack dulany pearson Harmonia Lodge

lenoa rutherford darrel schuenemann Lockhart Lodge

edgar l. baring sandra g. dickens susan ruth sliva Karnes City Lodge

william edward kaulfus sandra ruth overcast Waco-Robinson Lodge

patricia b. bentine Louise Schuetze Lodge

forrest charles pape Kerrville Lodge

yvonne j. thomas Kirby Lodge

doris d. roach Niederwald Lodge

lillian monier phyllis m. monier marian j. whitley Louise Schuetze Lodge

t.r. kraege kay k. ryan Yorktown Lodge

50 Years

clara jo duelm La Vernia Lodge

dennis ray huff Orange Grove Lodge gladys jane dziuk Poth Lodge henry hohertz Priddy Lodge arlon f. krause San Marcos Lodge

lester r. lipperdt New Bielau Lodge kay lynn gass New Braunfels Lodge virgil h. haese larry e. perry Pershing Lodge

kathi lynn fischer carol l. wright Vineta Lodge

robert l. dalglish jr.

Anton Wenzel Lodge travis wade maertz jim rex speck Bernardo Lodge susan mary ducos ann j. tomlinson john g. wernette Castroville Lodge

warren j. hoelscher andra a. smith Houston Lodge laura lynn brandon maura k. brandon lee ann champagne Kerrville Lodge

richard e. bless gary h. brigman jerome e. spear Siemering Lodge opal m. goebel Twin Sisters Lodge lonez dzierzanowski Vineta Lodge beverly lynn bredemeyer suzzane garmon reaves Waco-Robinson Lodge yvaun e. olsen Washington Lodge james a. krietsch chad lynn sthele Yorktown Lodge

merry beth bryan elizabeth a. ehlinger patricia m. klemstein Louise Schuetze Lodge helen e. flessner james h. flessner lynette y. flessner michael p. flessner Moulton Lodge rita p. sternadel Nordheim Lodge

Vida Marie Arlitt has received her 70-year membership pin.

Sister Arlitt lives in Needville and is a member of Needville Lodge.

She became a member Feb. 21, 1946.

Mary Beam reflects on 50 years with Hermann Sons Cont’d. from Pg. 4 “It’s amazing to me to think that I have worked with six Grand Presidents,” she said. “And it has been an educational experience with each one because they each approached the job from a different perspective.”

She remembers that Brother Schilo liked to be out of the office visiting with members and lodges.

She remembers Brother Riemer as a businessman who wanted to modernize Hermann Sons and did so by bringing the first computer system into the company.

Brother Engelke’s background was in public relations and newspapers. “He was a people person,” she recalls. “He knew everybody in town.” She said he taught her a lot about the public relations side of the business and how to write.

She also describes Brother Muehlstein as a people person who was “very gracious, a good businessman who never made an enemy.”

She said Brother Engelke and Brother Muehlstein were her mentors and role models because they were strong men and showed a lot of faith in her. “I learned a lot from both of them,” she said, “And have been able to draw on that during my years in office.”

She worked with Brothers Prewitt and Preuss as a member of the Executive Committee and Grand Committee.

She said Brother Prewitt was very knowledgeable when it came to Grand Lodge Laws and noted that, “if you had a question about the law, you could always go to him.”

She describes Brother Preuss as “innovative and that’s good because we need that so we can grow.”

She raised her family in the Hermann Sons organization. She and husband Mike have been married 33 years and they have three children. Margo lives in Seattle where she works in the corporate office of Holland America. Marla is a dance team director and fine arts teacher at Warren High School in San Antonio. Marcus works for USAA as an insurance specialist.

She remembers that raising

three children while working fulltime was “hectic” but she added, “I extended my love of Hermann Sons to my children and they and Mike understood how important it was to me.”

Her parents were Hermann Sons members. Father Marvin Gold was a district supervisor when she first came to work at Hermann Sons.

In fact, Sister Beam grew up in Hermann Sons, having been a member since she was just 7 years old. She attended Camp, was active in her junior chapter and was a member of the Schiloettes, a dance group organized by Grand President Schilo that performed all over the state promoting Hermann Sons.

Throughout the years she has been an active mermber of Louise Schuetze Lodge.

She has seen a lot of changes in her 50 years with Hermann Sons.

The computerization of all records was probably the biggest change, she said.

She also noted that for many years there was no true Marketing Department or Fraternal Department so a lot of the work now done in those departments was done in the Grand President’s office, which is, of course, where she worked.

Asked why she has chosen now to retire, Mary said, “The time is right. My family is ready for me to have more time to spend with them. And Mike and I want to travel.”

She said, “I marvel at the number of people I have met during these 50 years who remain good friends and are very special to me.”

She added that she loves what Hermann Sons does for people through its life insurance, its programs and its community service work and she wants that information to get to more people.

That’s why, she said, the changes that will be voted on at the Grand Lodge Convention including the name change and the new governance structure “will be good for the company because we need to move forward.”

She concluded, “I’m going to miss everybody. I am so glad that I found Hermann Sons and that Hermann Sons found me.”

May 2017 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 13

Medical Notes Cont’d. from Pg. 11 Type 1 diabetes occurs when the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin. Supplementation with insulin will be necessary to avoid drastic changes in blood glucose levels.

When a person has type 2 diabetes, cells fail to respond to insulin properly. This is referred to as insulin resistance. As the dis-

ease progresses, a lack of insulin may also develop. Typically with this type of diabetes, excessive body weight and not enough exercise are the culprits in insulin resistance. Eating a healthier diet and becoming more physically active can help reverse the condition.

Too little glucose in the blood (hypoglycemia) can make a person feel irritable, tired or con-

fused. Low blood sugar can lead to loss of consciousness. That is why it is crucial that blood sugar concentrations remain relatively stable.

Without insulin, the body could not effectively make use of the energy obtained through eating and drinking. Insulin helps unlock cells so that glucose can be used to its full potential.

Schlitterbahn outing open to all Hermann Sons members SAN ANTONIO – All Hermann Sons members are invited to be a part of Family Fun Day at Schlitterbahn Waterpark in New Braunfels on June 17.

In the past, this annual event was reserved for the Future Club Shining Stars and their families.

But this year, the event is open to all Hermann Sons members.

“The annual Schlitterbahn outing has been growing in popularity every year,” Grand Vice President-Fraternal Kim Krueger said.

“It is such an awesome way for Hermann Sons family to spend time together that we decided it was time to open it up to all Her-

mann Sons members.”

Shining Stars will still get into the park for free. They have received information in the mail about how to order their tickets and discounted tickets for their family members.

All other Hermann Sons members can order their tickets by completing the form here or by calling the Home Office at 210226-9261 or 800-234-4124 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.4:30 p.m.

Ticket prices are $47 for everyone ages 12 and above (regular price is $56 at the gate without lunch) and $42 for children ages 3-12 (regular price is $44 at the

gate without lunch). Schlitterbahn cups are available for $7 each and can be refilled free of charge throughout the park that day.

A picnic area in the Surfenburg area of the park has been reserved for Hermann Sons members. Lunch will be served there free of charge to everyone who is part of the Hermann Sons group.

The deadline to order tickets is June 7. A reservation confirmation will be sent after June 7 that will list information on the tickets that you have ordered and how you can pick them up on June 17.

Schlitterbahn Family Fun Day Ticket Order Form Name___________________________________________________ Address _________________________________________________ City ______________________ State _______ Zip ______________ Adults

______ X $47 = ____________

Children ages 3-11

______ x $44 = ____________

Refillable cup (with free refills all day)

______ x $7 = ____________

TOTAL ENCLOSED

____________

Mail completed form with check or money order made payable to Hermann Sons to Hermann Sons, Attn: Cecily Kelly, P.O. Box 1941, San Antonio, TX 78297-1941.

Page 14 – Hermann Sons Life – May 2017

Youth in Action

Former campers write about summers in Comfort Cont’d. from Pg. 1 school Haley has been active in choir, student council and speech and debate.

In part of her essay, Haley reflected on her time at Camp and the valuable lessons she has learned as a camper and counselor: My summer camp gave me a safe environment to learn how to live on my own. As a 9-year-old, I

was accustomed to my parents and teachers doing most things for me. However, when you’re 160 miles away from home with no electronic devices, you must adapt to your circumstances. I learned how to keep my space clean, get to class periods on time, and coexist peacefully with my fellow campers. As I have developed into a young woman, this experience created a form of independence that I feel will follow me

to Texas A&M. One of my most prized possessions is the red bead I received last year at the end of HSYC Staff Development. I had wanted to be a counselor since my first year and that little pierced piece of wood represents everything for which I have strived. Most importantly, it represents the evolution of my character from a quiet little girl to a confident young lady.

Although HSYC has now

changed its name to Hermann Sons Life-Camp, it still holds a special place in my heart. I may never be able to repay Hermann Sons and the people that made my times in Comfort the very best weeks of my life, but I am pleased to now be part of the team that creates the magic of our summer home. I will continue to add to the madness that is my camp and do my part to make sadness disappear one week at a time.

Haley Trainer, daughter of Kerri and Damon Trainer, has two siblings and lives in Adkins. She attends East Central High School and plans to attend the University of the Incarnate Word to study nursing. Haley has been an active participant in several school organizations including varsity drill and dance team, yearbook, National Honor Society and East See SCHOLARSHIP, Pg. 15

2017 Dance Recital Dates School of Dance

Date

Bandera County May 13 Boerne May 21 Castroville June 3 Cibolo May 21 Comfort May 20 Corpus Christi June 3 Cuero May 13 Da Costa May 6 Devine May 20 Elgin May 13 Goliad May 6 Gonzales May 6 Hill Country May 21 Hill Country May 21 Hochheim-Prairie May 6 Hondo May 27 Karnes City May 7 Kirby May 13 La Vernia May 6 Lee County May 7 Lone Oak May 13 Luling May 6 New Braunfels May 7 New Braunfels May 7 New Braunfels May 7 Nixon-Smiley May 21 North West Bexar Co. June 3 Poth-Floresville May 13 San Antonio June 3 Schulenburg May 21 Schulenburg May 21 Seguin June 3 Stockdale May 20

Time

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2 p.m.

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TBA 5 p.m.

4 or 5 p.m.

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Bandera High School Auditorium, 474 Old San Antonio Hwy., Bandera Boerne Middle School North, 240 Johnson Rd., Boerne Medina Valley Performing Arts Center, 8365 FM 471 South, Castroville Jackson Auditorium, Texas Luthern University, 1000 W. Court St., Seguin Comfort High School Auditorium, 143 Hwy. 87 N., Comfort Tuloso Midway Middle School, 9768 La Branch, Corpus Christi Cuero Intermediate School Cafeteria, 502 Park Heights, Cuero Victoria Fine Arts Center, 1002 Sam Houston Drive, Victoria Lytle High School, 18975 FM 2790, Lytle SPJST Hall, 702 Texas 95, Elgin Goliad High School, 749 N. Tiger Lane, Goliad Gonzales Junior High School, 926 St. Lawrence, Gonzales Smithson Valley High School, 14001 Hwy. 46 West, Spring Branch Smithson Valley High School, 14001 Hwy. 46 West, Spring Branch Yoakum High School, 104 Poth St., Yoakum Medina Valley Performing Arts Center, 8365 FM 471 South, Castroville Karnes City High School, 400 N. Hwy. 123, Karnes City Kirby Middle School, 5441 Old Seguin Road, Kirby La Vernia High School Auditorium, 225 Bluebonnet Rd., La Vernia Giddings High School Cafetorium, 2337 N. Main, Giddings La Vernia High School Auditorium, 225 Bluebonnet Rd., La Vernia Luling High School Fine Arts Building, 218 E. Travis St., Luling Smithson Valley High School, 14001 Hwy. 46 West, Spring Branch Smithson Valley High School, 14001 Hwy. 46 West, Spring Branch Smithson Valley High School, 14001 Hwy. 46 West, Spring Branch Nixon-Smiley High School Cafetorium, 800 N. Rancho Road, Nixon Edgewood Theatre of Performing Arts, 402 Lance St., San Antonio Floresville High School Auditorium, 1813 Tiger Lane, Floresville Antonian High School, 6425 West Ave., San Antonio Schulenburg Civic Center, 1107 Hillje Ave., Schulenburg Schulenburg Civic Center, 1107 Hillje Ave., Schulenburg Jackson Auditorium, Texas Lutheran University, 1000 W. Court St., Seguin Stockdale High School Auditorium, 502 S. Fourth St., Stockdale

Youth in Action

May 2017 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 15

Scholarship recipient speaks fondly of time at Camp Cont’d. from Pg. 14 Central High School Leadership Council.

In addition to her many school organizations, Haley is an active parishioner at St. Jerome Catholic Church where she volunteers as a Catechist teacher for the kindergarten class, serves as a Eucharistic minister and has also served on several Teen A.C.T.S. teams.

In her essay, Haley reflected on the skills she has gained from her time at Camp.

Throughout my years as a camper, I grew so much as a person. Going through my years as a Counselor-in-Training 1 and then a Counselor-in-Training 2 really helped me develop leadership skills and showed me how important this was not only at camp but also for my future. I’ve been able to apply these skills in my daily life at school, as well as in my communi-

ty. I know now what it takes to be a leader. Leaders must be dedicated, responsible, respectful, organized and lead by example. All of these qualities I try to apply in my life today including when I’m in my classes, teaching kindergarteners in my church CCD program, and instructing the dance team for my high school.

The most important thing that I learned from camp that has shaped me into the person I am today was learning how to have passion in your life. Every day, the counselors would show how much they enjoyed being at camp by showing passion for being with all the campers. When I would come back the next year for camp and saw the same counselors there, I would know this was something they looked forward to every summer. It really was admirable how the counselors would want to spend part of their summers away

Summer Camp Jobs Hermann Sons-Camp is seeking highly motivated men and women for summer employment.

Summer Positions Available: Counselor Food Service Worker Food Service Manager Maintenance Worker Housekeeper Also, Nurse positions for one week or more are available.

Come live the adventure of camp for a rewarding summer experience!

For an application or more information visit our website at

www.hermannsonslife.org (Click on the Contact Us tab and then Camp Employment)

For more information contact Katie Klohn Miller, Executive Camp Director Hermann Sons-Camp P.O. Box 629 Comfort, TX 78013 830-995-3223 katiek@hermannsonslife.org

from their personal lives to come have fun and be teachers and leaders to all of us campers. Passion is now such an important part of my life. I do everything with my whole heart and mind and never give up until I succeed.”

“These three individuals are deserving recipients and the Scholarship Fund is fortunate to have had so many high-quality candidates apply for the scholarships,”

Executive Camp Director Katie Klohn Miller said.

The Fund was formed and named in memory of Shannon Leigh Gaffney, a former Best Camper Award recipient and former counselor at Hermann Sons Youth Camp.

She passed away in 1998 at the age of 21 with leukemia. She is remembered for her vibrant personality and the impact she made

on children and other staff members.

The next fund-raiser for this Scholarship Fund is a Bowl-aThon scheduled for 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 5, at Oak Hills Lanes in San Antonio. For more information about the Bowl-a-Thon and the Hermann Sons Youth CampShannon Leigh Gaffney Scholarship Fund, please visit www.hermannsonslife.org.

Members of Hermann Sons Hondo Victory Lodge Graduate Cash Drawing Hondo Victory Lodge will hold a drawing and award up to FIVE $200 prizes to eligible 2017 high school graduates who are female graduate members of Hondo Victory Lodge. The prize will be in the form of a check. Names will be drawn on June 1, 2017. The winners only will be notified and are encouraged to attend the June meeting to accept their check. For more information, call Verlie Nietenhoefer at 830-426-2847. To enter, the form below must be completed and received on or before May 31, 2017.

Mail to: Verlie Nietenhoefer, Secretary Hondo Victory Lodge 1204 32nd St. Hondo, TX 78861 Please send a cap and gown picture for publication in the newspaper. (Photo will not be returned). The photo is not a requirement for the drawing, but will be appreciated.

Graduate Cash Drawing Entry Form Name Address Phone Number Name of High School School Address

School Phone Number

Page 16 – Hermann Sons Life – May 2017

Youth in Action

Campers can win back registration fee!

Campers who register for a summer camp session have a chance to win their registration fee back!

In an email to registered campers, a contest flyer is provided to print. Parents are asked to take a photo of their camper with the flyer and post it to Facebook with the hashtag #HermannSonsSuperSummer2017.

Deadline to post a photo on Facebook is midnight May 15.

Only one camper will win! A LIVE drawing will be held on Facebook May 19 (time to be announced). Registered campers should check their email for detailed instructions. Hurry and share your photo!

To see photos of the junior members who are participating in the contest or to watch the live drawing, like our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ HermannSonsLife.

Gavin Moltz and Morgan Moltz have already entered the contest! They are both Marion Lodge members.

Hermann Sons-Camp proud of accreditation

By KATIE KLOHN MILLER Executive Camp Director Did you know that Hermann Sons-Camp has been accredited through the American Camp Association (ACA) for almost 20 years? Did you know that there are currently only 1,554 accredited resident camps in the United States? Did you know that Hermann Sons-Camp is one of 54 resident camps in the state of Texas that are accredited?

Becoming accredited through ACA is a voluntary process we choose to go through because we believe the accreditation process is a component of providing the best experience possible for our campers, camper families and staff. Going through the process demonstrates our commitment to best practices in the camp industry.

The American Camp Association cites two main purposes for accreditation and why a camp might seek accreditation.

The first is to educate camp owners and directors in the administration of key aspects of camp operation, particularly those related to program quality and the health and safety of campers and staff. ACA standards establish guidelines for policies, procedures and practices. The camp is ultimately responsible for the ongoing implementation of the policies.

Second, the ACA accreditation assists the public in selecting camps that meet industry-accepted and government-recognized standards. When searching for camps, note that there is a difference between camps that choose to be a member of ACA and those who have successfully gone through the accreditation process.

Currently there are 197 different standards that are involved in the accreditation process covering site, transportation, health and wellness, operational management, human resources and program. Some standards are considered mandatory and a camp must comply with these in order to be accredited. An example of a mandatory standard is the need for camps to receive

a completed health history form for all campers in attendance. This is one of the reasons why we ask for this when your child arrives at Hermann Sons-Camp. Other standards are not mandatory but are weighted in the overall calculation of a camp’s accreditation standing.

Each year, we complete an Accreditation Report and Statement of Compliance and generally every five years we complete a Self-Assessment and are visited for an onsite review of how we are meeting standards. When it is time for our visit we will typically have two or three visitors who come and spend the day with us at Camp. We will go on a tour, visit activities and the visitors will want to talk to staff members as well as campers. The neat thing is the vis-

itors who come to our Camp are camp professionals themselves.

The visitors are responsible for scoring the standards and then the score sheet gets sent back to ACA headquarters and then our regional section for final tabulation.

This March I was lucky enough to participate in an Associate Visitor Course and will be serving as a visitor this summer. I am excited about the opportunity to visit other camps and help with their educational process. By helping other camps in this process, visitors typically get stronger in their interpretation of standards, which in turn helps their own programs.

I am a firm believer that we should always be looking for ways to con-

tinue to make our Camp better.

As you can see there are many benefits to being an ACA Accredited Camp. Hermann SonsCamp has served our members proudly for 63 summers and we want to continue that legacy for many more years and generations to come. We are thankful for the tools and resources provided

by ACA to promote the shared knowledge and experience of camp professionals to support quality camp programs.

If you have any questions about ACA accreditation I would be more than happy to answer them for you. Feel free to send me an e-mail at katiek@hermannsonslife. org and I will get back to you as soon as possible.

May 2017 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 17

Online registration available for July Grief Support Session COMFORT – Online applications are now being accepted for the first ever Grief Support Session at Hermann Sons-Camp.

The half-week session will be held July 5-8 at the Hilltop site. It is available to children ages 6-17 – members and non-members – who are grieving the loss of a loved one.

During this session, licensed

therapists and volunteer program staff will work together to create a special and therapeutic stay for the campers.

Hermann Sons is sponsoring the registration fees through donations from members, lodges and other groups. The only charge will be a $50 Bereavement Assessment fee.

If you know someone who

would benefit from attending this session go to https://www. texashermannsons.org/campgrief-support-session-application Applicants for the session will be accepted on a first-come basis and will go through an interview session with someone from the Children’s Bereavement Center before being accepted.

Castroville Lodge presents membership pins T. Jack Wernette has received his 75-year membership pin. Brother Wernette is a member of Castroville Lodge. He joined Hermann Sons on June 28, 1942. Pictured at the pin presentation are, from left, lodge Secretary Glenford Boehme, Grand Vice PresidentFraternal Kim Krueger, Brother Wernette and lodge President Bradford Boehme.

Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge presents pins Two members of Castroville Lodge recently received their 50year membership pins. Pictured are, from left, Castroville Lodge President Bradford Boehme, lodge Secretary Glenford Boehme, pin recipients Carol Tondre and Blaine Schorp and Grand Vice President-Fraternal Kim Krueger. Sister Tondre has been a member since Aug. 23, 1967. Brother Schorp joined on Feb. 28, 1967.

Four members of Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge recently received their 70-year and 75-year membership pins. Grand Vice President-Fraternal Kim Krueger, left, presented the pins to Herbert Remmert, a member since Dec. 7, 1942; Elroy Oehlers, a member since Oct. 17, 1947; Gladys Havemann, a member since Dec. 8, 1947; and Josephine Pflughaupt, a member since Sept. 22, 1942. Also pictured is lodge President Larry Hoff.

Columbus to meet June 12

Grand Vice President-Fraternal Kim Krueger, left, recently presented 50-year and 60-year membership pins to five members of EdelweissMagnolia Lodge. They are Linda Jennings, a member since Sept. 5, 1957; Elaine Hruska and Cecilia Hruska, both members since July 24, 1957; S.E. Braunagel, a member since June 11, 1957; and Anna Larie Keith, a member since Oct. 25, 1967. Also pictured is lodge President Larry Hoff.

COLUMBUS – The next meeting for Columbus Lodge is scheduled for June 12 at 7 p.m.

At the April 10 meeting, members discussed Join Hands Day and plans were made to visit the Columbus Oaks Nursing Home on May 6 and help residents play games.

Cheer Committee member Elsie Kahlden reported sending a sympathy card to Adrian and Virginia Fritsch following the death of Virginia’s brother, Henry Bernshausen.

Members celebrating birthdays in March and April were Jessamy Comer, Douglas Lilie, Yeola Jo Felty, David Mazac, Marjorie Brune, Lisa Brune, Elsie Ashorn, Mary K. Williams and Judy Quick.

Adrian and Virginia Fritsch led the entertainment and then everyone enjoyed refreshments.

Elsie Kahlden won the Easter jelly bean guessing game.

– Reporter

Puzzle answers from Pg. 32 Across 2. Mom 5. Gift 7. Hugs 8. Spring 9. Flowers

Down 1. Visit 3. Kisses 4. Thank 6. Card

Page 18 – Hermann Sons Life – May 2017

Schulenburg Lodge plans meeting for June 10

SCHULENBURG – Schulenburg Lodge will meet Wednesday, May 10, at the Schulenburg Community Center.

Refreshments will be served at 6:30 p.m. and the meal and meeting will follow at 7 p.m.

Sandwiches and dessert bars will be served. A memorial service will be held.

Glenn Altwein and Carol Van were guests at the April meeting.

Welcomed as new members were Benjamin Thomas Samuel Sustr and Kate Cecila Simons.

Grace Baylor reported a get well card was sent to Elmer Ulrich.

Cards also were sent to Edith Kocurek and Verdell Hafer. Verlene Hoffmann thanked the lodge for her card.

A thank you card was read

Celebrating birthdays at the April Schulenburg Lodge meeting were, from left, LeRoy Hoffmann, Emma Nitschke, Jimmy Kohleffel and Bill Michalke.

Schulenburg Lodge members celebrating April anniversaries were, from left, Verlene and LeRoy Hoffmann and Dorothy and Clinton Ellebracht.

from VFW Post 5623 for the lodge’s donation to be used for flags on Memorial Day. Brother Altwein also thanked

Hugo Schilhab was the winner of the gift card to Kountry Bakery.

Schulenburg Lodge meets

the lodge for its support of veterans from VFW Post 5254 and American Legion Post 102 in La Grange.

the second Wednesday of each month at the Schulenburg Community Center.

– Junette Rodecap

Shelby helps out American Legion Albert Kypfer meets May 5 SHELBY – Shelby Lodge will not meet in May because the meeting date falls on Mother’s Day. The lodge has completed its Join Hands Day project by helping with the Shelby American Legion and Auxiliary fund-raiser.

At the April meeting, members learned that get-well cards had been sent to Lois Albright and Nelson Aschenbeck and a sympathy card was sent to the family of Hertha Goebel.

Carolyn Bruening, Flora Marek, Anna Rose Brandt, Ken Mathis and Milroy Krebs won door prizes. The progressive door prize would have gone to W. H. Makowsky Jr. but he was not in attendance. The progressive door prize increases by $2 each month until the winner is present.

Thanks go to Doris and August Voelkel and Marie and Oscar Voelkel for preparing and serving ham for the meal served after the meeting. Thanks also go to all the members who brought side dishes.

Barbecue sandwiches are on the menu for the June meeting and meal.

– Reporter

Lollie Dittmar of Shelby Lodge who is now a young 96. She is a member of Shelby Lodge. Dennis Rudloff, also a member of Shelby Lodge, turned 93 at the end of March.

Marie and Oscar Voelkel celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary in April. They are members of Shelby Lodge.

CLEAR SPRINGS – Albert Kypfer Lodge will meet Friday, May 5. Kerry and Kathy Noble will bring the ham. Members are asked to bring a side dish or dessert.

Members provided casseroles and desserts for the April 7 meeting.

Two new junior members were welcomed. They are Parker Lee Gonzales and Mary Katherine Elizabeth Oehlk.

Nelrose Koepp reported that

Barbara Pizel was in the hospital.

If you know of anyone who has passed away or is in need of a get-well card, call Sister Koepp.

Attendance prize winners were Kerry Noble, Oran Koepp, Jim Sureddin, Noland Koepp and Joyce Koepp.

If you know someone who does not drive, offer to bring them to the next meeting.

– Reporter Celebrating April anniversaries from Albert Kypfer Lodge were, from left, Tina O’Bryant and husband Darryl (not pictured) and Dorothy and Walter Mueller.

Celebrating April birthdays from Shelby Lodge were Judy Pieper, Doris Christ and Nolan Krebs.

Brunhilde to honor pioneers SAN ANTONIO – Brunhilde Lodge will honor its pioneer members at the May meeting.

The lodge did not meet in April because of Fiesta.

At the March meeting, members were updated on several others who were under

the weather including Leroy Muehlstein and Barbara Pass.

Jackie Platts had surgery but was able to attend.

Members voted to give the bartender all of the split-thepot cash.

– Reporter

May 2017 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 19

Kirby ‘joins hands’ with Honor 22 for H.E.R.O. 5K SAN ANTONIO – Kirby Lodge will meet again on the second Monday, May 8, starting at 7 p.m. The men will provide the main dish in honor of Mother’s Day. Members are asked to bring sides dishes and desserts.

The lodge would like to thank members, their families, lodge youth and Girl Scout Troop 164 for joining hands with the lodge to help Honor 22 with its firstever H.E.R.O 5K and for making Kirby Lodge’s Join Hands Day project such a big success.

At the April meeting, Vice President Samantha Schulmeier reported that with Kirby Lodge’s help Honor 22 should now be able to get its 501(c)(3) designation. The additional money Honor 22 raised will be used for future events as well as to start construction on a multi-surface track at the PTSD Foundation for the Warm Springs Rehabilitation Hospital to use.

A total of 43 members and guests joined hands to help with 15 of those participating in the 5K. There were 24 volunteers (girls and parents) from Girl Scout Troop 164. Race participants enjoyed seeing the Girl Scouts cheering them on dressed in Girl Scout cookie costumes. Volunteers had fun helping at several stations throughout the race, cheering on the runners and handing out awards.

Taking part in the H.E.R.O. 5K in support of Kirby Lodge were Michelle Pruitt and her children along with her mother, Mary Pruitt. All are members of the lodge.

Honor 22 is a free exercise and community involvement group dedicated to helping active duty military, veterans and their families transition into a healthy life once they separate from the military.

The group organizes weekly free exercise groups in various locations across San Antonio in order to bring together veterans, families, friends and community members to promote a more active lifestyle to help build selfconfidence and self-worth. At least once a month, the group organizes competitive groups to run in various 5Ks, 10Ks, bike marathons and obstacle course races located in and around the San Antonio area. Honor 22 believes that exercise is only half of the process to successful transition. Building a better community is the other half.

Congratulations go to Carolina McQuatters, Trey Wilson and Harry Osburn for placing in the 5K. Eight bowlers from the lodge participated in the 13th annual Fraternal Alliance of Texas Bowling Tournament on March 4.

The Kirby School of Dance will perform at Kirby HOBO Days at Kirby Friendship Park on Saturday, May 6, at 12 noon. The recital will be held Saturday, May 13, at Kirby Middle School at 2:30 p.m.

A bus trip to the Kickapoo

A total of 43 members and guests from Kirby Lodge helped with and participated in the H.E.R.O. 5K hosted by Honor 22 in April. This was the lodge’s Join Hands Day project.

Lucky Eagle Casino in Eagle Pass is scheduled for Sunday, July 16. Henrietta Lowak reported that the bus will leave the Kirby Lodge Hall at 7 a.m. Cost is $25 per person. If anyone would like to go or has any questions about the trip contact either Henrietta Lowak at 210-667-1435 or Tammy Haecker at 210-601-6802 no later than Friday, June 30.

The lodge will make donations to the Fisher House at San Antonio Military Medical Center in observance of Make a Difference Day. Community Coordinator Judy Schulmeier has a list of items that are needed. Contact her at 210-667-1938 for a copy of the list.

Welcomed as new members were Trey and Ayden Barth.

Members celebrating April birthdays were Judy Schulmeier, Lillian Brietzke and Candace

Winners of the H.E.R.O. 5K sponsored by Honor 22 in April gather for a group photo. A total of 15 members and friends of Kirby Lodge took part in the 5K with three of them winning awards.

Scheibe.

Members celebrating April anniversaries were James and Henrietta Lowak, 56years; and Judy and Irvin Schulmeier, 36years.

Door prize winners were Leroy Muehlstein, Jimmy Scheibe and Samantha Schulmeier.

The lodge would like to send

get-well wishes to Donna Walker, Evelyn Bielke, Darlene Manka and Dorothy Wille.

A copy of the 2017-2018 schedule can be picked up at any meeting. All members are welcome and encouraged to attend all meetings and events.

-Angela Netherton

Above - Volunteers from Kirby Lodge man one of the tables at the H.E.R.O. 5K sponsored by Honor 22 in April.

Left - Members of Girl Scout Troop 164 donned Girl Scout Cookie costumes for the Honor 22 H.E.R.O. 5K. They passed out water to runners along the race route.

Page 20 – Hermann Sons Life – May 2017

Cibolo will present flowers to dancers at recital CIBOLO – Cibolo Lodge met April 6 at Christ the King Lutheran Church. The Easter bonnet contest junior winners were Brenley and Maezey Bierstedt and the adult winner was Dorothy Schneider.

Welcomed as a new junior member was Jacob Anthony Tarrillion. Jesus C. Garza is the lodge’s new adult member.

The scheduled guest speaker was Hans Boas, professor for Germanic Linguistics in the Department of Germanic Studies and the Department of Linguistics at the University of Texas at Austin, but he had to reschedule his visit until Oct. 5. Everyone is invited to come and listen and ask questions, especially those who speak native German or know of anyone who still does. Hans is documenting and recording native German so the language is not lost. The meeting will start at 7 p.m. in the classroom of Christ

the King Lutheran Church, 1129 Pat Booker Road, Universal City, across from the Whataburger. The event has been posted on the Cibolo Lodge Facebook page.

Brenley Bierstedt brought a special guest. Flat Tyler is her flat friend from Rose Garden Elementary’s second grade. His friend Exabriel sent a note explaining how he became flat.

He was run over by a vacuum cleaner! Flat Tyler has been all over but when he went to Brenley’s Grammy’s house he almost became a “Cows-ulty” when one of the cows really liked him and started licking him. But there is good news.

Flat Tyler was rescued in time and even had a checkup complete with an EKG and all is fine.

The lodge’s rummage sale will be held on Sept. 16 in the parking lot of Christ the King Lutheran Church beginning at 8 a.m. so mark your calendar

Cibolo Lodge President John Gray welcomes Brenley Bierstedt and her friend, Flat Tyler, to the April lodge meeting.

Winners of the Easter bonnet contest held as part of the April Cibolo Lodge meeting were, from left, Dorothy Schneider, Maezey Bierstedt and Brenley Bierstedt.

and come out and help the lodge support the Clemens 4-H Club.

In observance of Join Hands Day, the lodge will present flowers to the dancers performing in the recital set for 5 p.m.

May 21 in Jackson Auditorium at Texas Lutheran University.

Everyone is invited to attend and enjoy the performance.

Adult attendance prize winners were Alvin Schulz and Dawn Bierstedt and the junior winner was Brenley Bierstedt.

The special drawing winner would have been Caitlyn Rose Niemietz but she was not pres-

ent. Next month the drawing is worth $46.

The side dish winner was Vivian Brehm’s sweet rice. The dessert winner was a tie between Sherry Rakowitz’s blueberry coffee cake and Dawn Bierstedt’s birthday cheesecake.

– Reporter

Giddings to prepare Mother’s Day cards for residents GIDDINGS – In observance of Join Hands Day, members of Giddings Lodge will work with the Giddings Youth Club to prepare Mother’s Day cards for the residents at the local nursing home.

At the February meeting, Adrian Flores and Carl Walter Kasper III were welcomed as new members.

Kenny Pumpell was sent a sympathy card and Willie Mae Myers

a get-well card.

Jean and Johnny Herzik celebrated their 59th wedding anniversary. Jerry and Brenda Potter celebrated their 35th anniversary.

The lodge provided the pork for the meal with members providing the side dishes and desserts.

At the March meeting, members talked about the business that will be discussed during the

upcoming Grand Lodge Convention.

The lodge’s new member goal has been set at 48 this year. Members are asked to recommend potential new members.

Agent Loretta Chilek will be honored for qualifying for the Grand President’s Club at the Agents’ Awards Banquet coming up in May in Kerrville. She also will be honored for earning the

Last Agent Standing Award.

Sebastian Flores, Jerry Potter and Charlie Harmon celebrated birthdays in March.

Treasurer Cecelia Martinez recently lost her mother. Sympathy cards were sent to all the Martinez and Harmon families following the loss of their mother and grandmother.

Cards were sent to Skylar Moore, Kathy Harrell, Bernice

Bittner, Raymond Lehmann and Angeline Prihoda.

Winners of door prizes that ranged from cash to packages of pork ribs were Mundo DeLaRosa, Bernice Bittner, Cecelia Martinez and Loretta Chilek.

Meetings are held the second Thursday of every month at 7 p.m. All members are welcome to attend.

– Reporter

Fort Worth Lodge happy to welcome five new members FORT WORTH – Fort Worth Lodge members can pat themselves on the back. Five new members were recently welcomed. They are Maci Minter, Maggie Minter, Ty Gibson, Cole Gibson and Ellie Walters. Ty, Cole and Ellie are all fourth generation members.

The lodge’s next meeting will be held Sunday, June 11, at 2 p.m. at Warren Park, 301 S.W. Johnson Ave. in Burleson. The

lodge will furnish hamburgers, hot dogs and all the condiments. Pins will be presented.

Members are asked to bring desserts. Watch for more details in future issues.

The lodge’s first Join Hands Day project for 2017 will be held May 13 at the Burleson Animal Shelter. Members will meet there at 1 p.m. to deliver supplies and a donation. Members are asked to bring what they can

from the list of needed items including dog food, chew toys, tennis balls, blankets, dog beds, cat food, cat toys, bleach, towels and cat beds just to name a few.

You can go to animalshelter@ burleson.com to get the full list.

The second project will be a donation to CASA. The third will be to sponsor a child for the Grief Support Session at Hermann Sons-Camp this summer.

Contact Nancy Kelly if you would like to be at the animal shelter on May 13 or go with her to present the check to CASA. Information on registering for Camp has been mailed to all eligible junior members so sign up as soon as possible. And don’t forget to send a postcard or letter to Ronnie Jones to be eligible to receive one of the Camp scholarships being offered by the lodge. Just send a postcard

or letter telling him why you want to go to Camp. The Youth Committee will pick two winners. His address is 11704 Frazier Land, Crowley, TX 76036.

Happy Birthday wishes go to Hailee McBroom, Lisa Schick, Morris Turek, Brett Walters and Vince Wos. Congratulations also go to Hailee on being accepted into nursing school at Texas A&M. – Reporter

May 2017 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 21

Boerne to meet at Kronkosky Place

Taylor Lodge presents award Taylor Lodge presented the 2016 Humanitarian Award to Agnes Eschberger, left. Agnes has been a member of the lodge since April 1973 and has served in numerous officer positions. She enjoys sharing the vegetables she grows in her garden. Presenting the award is Louise Grose, lodge president.

BOERNE – Boerne Lodge will meet Friday, May 5, at 12 noon at Kronkosky Place. Lunch reservations must be made in advance by calling the Rainbow Senior Center by 9 a.m. the day of the meeting.

Aubrey Reeves, Camdyn Currie, Charlotte Parker and Reese Martin were welcomed as new junior members during the April 7 meeting.

Marilyn Vogt reported that four high school seniors have been selected to receive a scholarship from the lodge.

She will present the students with their scholarships at a ceremony at their school in May. A thank you note was read

from a recipient who received a $250 donation from the lodge during the Kendall County Junior Livestock Show that was held in Boerne in January.

Judy Beauford was a guest speaker and she talked about the Hill Country Mission for Health that provides charitable health care in Kendall County.

She also discussed the Mission Garden that is a teaching garden for the insecure in health services and nutrition. A $25 donation was made to the Mission Gardens project.

Celebrating birthdays were Lloyd Markell in March and Harvey Vogt and Erna Vogt in April.

Congratulations to Lloyd and Elizabeth Markell on their 65th anniversary.

Marilyn Vogt and Barbara D’Spain will be the lodge’s delegates to the Grand Lodge Convention from April 30-May 3. Erna Vogt and Esther Faecher will be the alternates.

Camp information has been mailed to all eligible junior members. Open House for camp will be held June 10.

Boerne’s School of Dance will hold its recital on May 21 at Boerne Middle School North.

Members enjoyed cookies and played a game. Judy Beauford was the lucky winner.

– Barbara D’Spain

McGregor Lodge will collect food items at May 3 meeting McGREGOR – McGregor Lodge will meet May 3 at 6 p.m. at the Charlie Griffin Center. Members are asked to bring food for donation to the McGregor Food Pantry in observance of Join Hands Day. Members enjoyed pizza, salad and dessert at the April 6 meeting.

President Doris Mooney thanked Leona Hendrickson, Teresa Sneed, Regina Arse-

neaux, Carol Wiethorn, Karen Rice and El Nora Lawton for their help with the Valentine Party at Westview Manor Nursing Home.

President Mooney read a thank you note from Annie Leos, the 2016 Humanitarian Award recipient.

Members were urged to contact the Grand Lodge with the names of prospective new members.

Cuero will meet on June 6 CUERO – Cuero Family Lodge will meet June 6 at Santi’s beginning at 6 p.m. The May meeting has been cancelled due to the Grand Lodge Convention.

At the April 4 meeting, members welcomed transfer member Christopher Chandler.

The Cuero School of Dance recital is set for Saturday, May 13, at the intermediate school cafeteria beginning at 5 p.m. Make plans to attend – it’s always a delightful performance.

Lodge scholarship applications have been taken to the high school for distribution to graduating seniors.

The Grand Lodge Convention is May 1-3. Delegates are Wayne and Allison Tiffin. Laura Tiffin is the alternate. She is seeking a seat on the Board of Directors.

Karlyne Tiffin of the Cheer

Committee reported sending a get-well card to Marvin Bade and a birthday card to Allison Tiffin.

Members celebrating birthdays in April are Mary Lapp, Natalie Lapp, Marvin Bade and Sarah Carpenter. Members with birthdays in May are Elizabeth Loos, Isabel Van Beveren, Austen Bixenmann and Joyce Kahlich.

Door prize winners were June Guenther, Jerry Tietz, Iris Hotz, Gary Hotz and Pauline Kueker.

Following the meeting, members enjoyed a meal of either chicken fried steak or hamburger steak served with baked potato or fries, a salad and tea.

Thanks go to Elizabeth Loos and Helen Lempa for providing desserts.

– June Guenther

Three members recently reached their 70-year membership milestone. Doris Hauser joined on March 21, 1947, Geneva Quebe Barse joined April 13, 1947, and Jerry Thane joined April 21, 1947.

Hermine Wolf reported mailng sympathy cards to Milton and Yvonne Schmalriede and Janet Schmalriede, the family of JoAnn Schmalriede Temples.

Also a sympathy card was mailed

to Geneva Quebe Barse following the passing of her husband, Robert “Pucker” Barse.

A get well card was sent to Jerry Thane.

Milton Schmalriede and Jerry Thane were back at the meeting.

Happy Anniversary wishes go out to Al and Hermine Wolf on 66 years on April 11 and to John and Teresa Sneed on 42 years on April 26.

Celebrating March and April birthdays were Betty Johnson, Janet Schmalriede and Doris Mooney.

Door prize winners were Kerry and Regina Arseneaux. Pizza winners were El Nora Lawton, Betty Johnson, Joyce Thane, Yvonne Schmalriede and Milton Schmalriede.

The June meeting will be June 7. Make plans to attend.

– Reporter

Bernardo welcomes two new members BERNARDO – Bernardo Lodge will meet May 17 at the Bernardo Volunteer Fire Department Station. Meetings begin at 7 p.m.

Blair Marie Maertz and Abigail Grace Sutherland were welcomed as new members at the March 15 meeting.

In his agent report, Terrel Maertz highlighted some of the topics that were covered at the workshop he attended in Feb-

ruary. And he reported that the lodge’s new member goal for the year is four.

He asked everyone to continue to spread the word about Hermann Sons and to let him know about anyone who might be interested in becoming a member.

He will represent the lodge at the Grand Lodge Convention in San Marcos.

Anyone who wants to talk

about the business that will be discussed at the Convention is asked to call him.

Beatrice Hill reported sending sympathy cards to the family of Vera Braden and the Deana Berger family. A get-well card was sent to Billy Hagen.

“Happy Birthday” was sung to Robin Maertz.

Arlene and Joe Trojacek won door prizes.

– Robin Maertz

Da Costa will hold family social Aug. 13 DA COSTA – Da Costa Lodge members who are graduating high school seniors are reminded that scholarship applications are due May 1.

Contact LaVerne Hajek at 361-575-1712 for an application.

The lodge’s summer family social is set for Aug. 13. A catered meal will be served. Silent auction items are needed. Proceeds from the auction benefit the lodge’s scholarship fund.

Members receiving their 50year, 60-year and 70-year pins

will be honored.

The next meeting is scheduled for May 9 at 6 p.m. at the hall. Delegates will be reporting on the Grand Lodge Convention. All members are welcome and encouraged to attend.

– Sayra Martinka

Page 22 – Hermann Sons Life – May 2017

Dallas will present pins at luncheon on May 21

In honor of St. Patrick’s Day, members of Mission-Alamo Lodge wore green to the March meeting held at El Mirador Restaurant.

Mission-Alamo to honor moms, hold hat contest

SAN ANTONIO – Mission-Alamo Lodge will honor its mothers at the May meeting, which will also include a funny hat contest.

The March meeting was held at El Mirador Restaurant with members and guests enjoying a traditional Mexican food meal.

At the time of the meeting, Margaret Hopper was hospitalized with pneumonia but hope-

fully she is now resting at home.

Everyone signed a get-well card for her.

The split-the-pot winner was Carol Swan with “Hugs From Home” receiving the other half.

The names of Sydney Sahd and Faerine Ketchum were drawn for the big jackpot but neither was present making the next drawing worth $230.

– Reporter

Paige plans luncheon PAIGE – Paige Lodge members will honor mothers and fathers with a lunch on Sunday, May 21, at the Sirloin Stockade Restaurant in Taylor. A brief meeting will follow the lunch.

Members enjoyed a Mexican potluck lunch prior to the March 12 meeting.

The lodge welcomes new junior member Waylon Arthur Kunkel. He is the son of Troy and Ann Kunkel and grandson of Cornell and Ethel Kunkel.

Members voted to sponsor the Loblolly 4-H Club Chili Supper Fund-raiser in November and to apply for Matching Funds from the Grand Lodge. The sponsorship of this youth activity will be the lodge’s Make a Difference Day project.

Members were reminded of the Elgin School of Dance Recital on May 13 at 3 p.m. at the SPJST Hall located at 702 Texas

95 in Elgin.

A moment of silence was observed in memory of long-time member Kenneth M. Cowan.

Sympathy is extended to the Cowan family.

Agent Chelle Dube reported attending a workshop in San Antonio on Feb. 28.

Bernice Basward reported sending “thinking of you” cards to Margaret Boyd, Cornell and Ethel Kunkel, Kenneth M. Cowan and Leroy Wobus. A get-well card was sent to La Verne Mattiza and a sympathy card was sent to the Kenneth M. Cowan family.

Chelle Dube won the attendance prize and Linda Ihlo won the dollar pot.

Members enjoyed games after the meeting. Special thanks go to Ronnie Harmon for calling the games and to his assistant, Halle Dube.

– Sandy Botkin

Denise Wright celebrated her birthday in March. She is a member of Mission-Alamo Lodge.

DALLAS – Dallas Lodge will not hold a business meeting in May. Instead, the lodge will hold a public meeting, lunch and pin presentation ceremony on May 21 at 1 p.m. at El Fenix Restaurant, 1601 McKinney Ave., in downtown Dallas. Members and guests are invited, especially those who are receiving their anniversary pins this year.

A Grand Lodge representative will be there to present the pins.

Congratulations to the 15 members who will receive their pins this year. They are asked to confirm their attendance by contacting Steve Schellenberg at 972-358-1952 or by email at schell413@ gmail.com .

Two of these members joined in April. Frank L. Bernhard joined April 3, 1947, and is receiving his 70-year pin this year. He resides in Porter Ranch, Calif. John W. Meusel Jr. is receiving his 50-year pin this year. He joined on April 17, 1967, and lives in Green-

ville.

At the March 19 business meeting, those members present voted not to approve a proposed consolidation with Columbia Lodge.

Columbia Lodge members voted to approve the consolidation, but since both lodges must approve the consolidation, there will be no consolidation.

Members are reminded about the lodge’s Join Hands Day project. Volunteers will meet at the North Texas Food Bank, 4500 S. Cockrell Hill Rd., Dallas, at 9 a.m. on May 6. The shift ends at 11:30 a.m. Columbia Lodge members are invited to participate as they did last year.

Steve Schellenberg won the attendance prize. He is the lodge’s delegate to the Grand Lodge Convention April 30May 3 in San Marcos. Eva Day is the alternate.

The next business meeting is scheduled for June 25 at 1 p.m.

– Reporter

On Aug. 12

Kerrville will take part in joint picnic

KERRVILLE – Kerrville Lodge members enjoyed the pizza served at the April 5 meeting.

They discussed a possible Join Hands Day project and the upcoming Grand Lodge Convention.

The lodge will take part in the joint new member picnic being planned by lodges in the area. It will be held Aug. 12 at Hermann Sons-Camp. Kerrville Lodge will provide the chips.

Other meetings this year will

be held June 7, Aug. 2 and Oct. 4. They will be held at the Wells Fargo Bank Community Room at 301 Junction Highway in Kerrville. The Christmas party is set for Dec. 1.

– Juanice Grona

New Braunfels Lodge to meet May 7 NEW BRAUNFELS – New Braunfels Lodge will meet Sunday, May 7, at 3 p.m. at the lodge hall. The lodge will provide the meat and members are asked to bring side dishes or dessert.

The lodge welcomes transfer member Channing Simon from San Marcos Lodge.

At the April 2 meeting, the lodge welcomed 13 new junior members.

The lodge voted to make a

donation to Project Graduation.

A thank-you card was read from the William Schumann family.

The lodge’s new member goal for 2017 is 120.

Grand Vice President-Marketing Tim Kolbe and wife Cheryl were guests. Brother Kolbe spoke briefly.

Attendance-prize winners were Ethan Colbert, Jo Heideman, James Stolte, Karen Har-

borth, Martha Stahl, Marlene Churchman, Michael Huebinger, Lenora Mueller, Rennie Guenther, Harvey Heideman, Ora Lee Benton and Virginia Vetter.

Delbert and Violet Tanneberger hosted the catered meal. The hall was decorated in an Easter theme.

After the meeting, Tim Barker presented a video about a book about historic Landa Park.

– Reporter

May 2017 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 23

Brenham Lodge presents 70-year pin

Cameron Lodge Fish Fry set for June 20 Above - Celebrating March birthdays at the Cameron Lodge meeting were, from left, John Duffy, Kayla Ehler, Blasé Sanford, Nettilee Korenek, Adele Lumpkins and David Ehler. The group discussed a possible Join Hands Day project. The lodge’s next meeting will be the annual fish fry on June 20. Right - John and Theresa Duffy celebrated a wedding anniversary in March.

The lodge met March 21 at Bea’s Kitchen. Everyone enjoyed “Papa John’s” Chili prepared by the Duffys.

Brenham Lodge member Janice McClendon, center, received her 70year membership pin during the March meeting. She is pictured with President Jeanette Preuss and Special Representative Gary Falkenberg. Sister McClendon has been a member since Feb. 18, 1947.

March birthday celebrants at the Brenham Lodge meeting were, from left, Robert Preuss Jr., Delores Gaskamp, Nina Runge, Gloria Zwahr and Gary Falkenberg.

Alvin and Ruth Free of Brenham Lodge celebrated 67 years of marriage in March.

BRENHAM – At the March 10 meeting, Brenham Lodge welcomed new junior member Kady Marie Hyvl and Janice McClendon received her 70-year membership pin.

The Cheer Committee mailed a get-well card to Scott Hueske and Carol Stamport.

Sympathy cards were mailed to Dorothy Hahn following the passing of her sister, Mae Ola Grebe, and to the family of Mae Ola Grebe, and to Joy Dell Finke and family following the passing of her sister-in-law and aunt, Bernice Emshoff. A moment of silence was observed in memory of Sister Grebe and Sister Emshoff.

A thank-you note was read from the family of Nolan Nitsche for the donations made in his memory to the Retirement Home and Camp.

Plans for a drive-through dinner were discussed. Chicken and sausage plates with two vegetables will be sold for $6.15 on a Sunday in June if the caterer is available.

The April meeting was cancelled due to Holy Week.

For the May meeting, the lodge will provide ham and members are asked to bring side dishes.

The lodge thanked guests Gary and Linda Lehde, Amanda and Tenly Klehm and Maggie Kenjura for attending the meeting.

Ben and Delores Meyer, Aubrey and Evelyn Harmel, Herbert and Gloria Zwahr and Allyne Sullivan were thanked for preparing the meal of beef tips, noodles, mashed potatoes and vegetables.

– Reporter

Ellinger Lodge announces delegates Dunlay donates to ‘Fire Pup’ program Dunlay Lodge Vice President Stanley Meyer, right, presents Gaylon Schueling, volunteer fireman with the Hondo Volunteer Fire Company, with a donation for the Fire Pup program. This program provides fire safety education materials targeted to reach children age 3 through the fifth grade. The Fire Pup materials are distributed in the local schools during public safety presentations and at community events.

ELLINGER – Ellinger Lodge met Monday, March 20, at the Ellinger Fire Station.

It was announced Irvin Schulmeier will be the lodge’s delegate to the Grand Lodge Convention in May and Jerry Krenek is the alternate delegate.

Agent Judy Schulmeier was in attendance.

Reports were given on the Christmas party and the installation of officers.

A donation was given to the Retirement Home in memory of Joyce Hoffmann who recently passed away. She was a member of the lodge for 57 years.

Bessie Hoffmann reported sympathy cards were sent to Maxine Dominey following the loss of her sister and to Audrey Krenek following the loss of her brother.

Happy Birthday wishes were

sent to Bessie Hoffmann, Ruth Martinak, Gerald Schulmeier, Evelyn Isle and Judy Schulmeier.

Happy Anniversary wishes went to Irvin and Judy Schulmeier.

Prize winners were Gerald Schulmeier and Ruth Martinak.

Everyone enjoyed a meal of barbecue on a bun, chips, veggies, cake, cookies and drinks.

– Reporter

Page 24 – Hermann Sons Life – May 2017

Pershing Lodge to meet June 7

SAN ANTONIO – Pershing Lodge will meet Wednesday, June 7, at 7 p.m. Church’s Fried Chicken will be served along with a cake in honor of Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. Lodge members attending the Grand Lodge Convention will not be returning until sometime Wednesday, May 3, so members voted not to hold a meeting in May. Terri Armstrong reminded everyone that the next trip will be an overnight casino trip to Coushatta on June 11-12. For more information contact her at 210378-0319.

Welcomed as new members were Alessia Alesana Garcia, Emily Anne Johnston and Jeremy Edward DeLaGarza.

Carolyn Valek asked members to pray for Bonnie Cypert who was having knee surgery.

Chaplain Tony Valek reported on the passing of Arline Kreger, Audrey Paradise and Marilyn Saddler.

An election will be held at the June meeting to replace one Home Association representative.

In observance of Join Hands Day, the lodge will be collecting items to be donated to the SAM-

Children line up to visit the Easter Bunny during the March meeting of Deanville Lodge. They also enjoyed an Easter egg hunt.

Celebrating an April anniversary were Pershing Lodge members Ernest and Sharon Huegele.

Ministries. Members are asked to bring items to the June meeting including socks, toiletries and snacks. Call the lodge office at 210-227-3085 for more information.

David Johnson won the $25 attendance prize and the splitthe-pot drawing.

There were four names drawn for the $90 Progressive Pot but Margaret Swientek, Justin A. Bruce, Matthew Paul Golla and Gerard F. Lohrke were not present to win.

– Reporter

Sharon Mainz celebrated her birthday in April. She is a member of Pershing Lodge.

Rutersville to serve fajita meal May 3 RUTERSVILLE – Rutersville Lodge has planned a fajita meal for the May 3 meeting.

Members are asked to bring side dishes or desserts.

At the April 9 meeting, members enjoyed a “breakfast for supper” including pancakes, bacon, sausage, hash browns and other goodies.

Two lodge members are candidates for the board of directors at the Grand Lodge Convention. They are David Noak

and Glenn Altwein.

A sympathy card was sent to the John Zapalac family and a get-well card was sent to Joyce Faldyn. It was noted that Weldon Hartmann and Mary Jane Treybig are on the sick list along with Agent Linda Mattocks.

Door prize winners were James Svrcek, Delores Bayer, Leon Heintschel, JoAn Heintschel and Kirby Keilers.

– Reporter

Rutersville Lodge members celebrating birthdays in April are Dorothy Keilers and Glenn Altwein.

Womack Lodge plans Fish Fry for June 17 WOMACK – Womack Lodge will meet May 7 at 5 p.m. A covered dish meal will be served.

Come and bring a favorite dish.

The Matching Funds Fish Fry to benefit the Clifton Volunteer Fire Department has been sched-

uled for June 17 at Womack Hall.

Mark this date for the big event.

Beverly Rueter won the attendance prize at the April 2 meeting and James Dreyer won the 50/50 drawing.

Everyone enjoyed visiting,

playing dominoes during the social hour and the covered dish meal.

Eleanora Zuehlke served as hostess with help from several others.

– Nadine Rueter

Deanille Lodge hosts egg hunt for juniors DEANVILLE – Deanville Lodge invited Special Representative Gary Falkenberg to the February meeting to speak about the different kinds of insurance Hermann Sons offers.

Several guests were in attendance interested in becoming members.

The lodge will observe Join Hands Day on May 6. Art supplies will be collected for the Grief Support Session at Hermann Sons-Camp this summer.

In its observance of Join Hands Day, the 4-H Club will help clean the lodge hall.

On April 21, students from the Caldwell Middle School cleaned outside of the hall.

The lodge thanks them for these projects.

An Easter egg hunt was held and the Easter Bunny visited the lodge on March 26. There were 20-25 children in attendance who enjoyed hunting eggs and visiting with the bunny (aka Beverly).

St. John’s Lutheran Church’s German Fest will be held May 21.

The activities will be held at the Deanville Fire Station.

Church services will be held at 10 a.m. A German-style lunch will be served starting at 11 a.m. Serving will continue until the food is gone.

There will be music, games for adults and children, a

country store and much more.

Cheer Committee Chairperson Mildred McLemore reported sending get-well cards to Doris Strauss, J.D. Bartek, Barbara Sablatura, Leonard Brinkmann, Donna Havemann and Jalain Wiederhold. Mildred McLemore had knee replacement surgery. Katherine Korth will serve as cheer chairperson until Sister McLemore is able to do so again. A get-well card was sent to her.

Sympathy cards were sent to Thomas and Joyce Krenek following the passing of Thomas’ aunt and to Walter and Vivian Schumacher following the passing of Walter’s brother.

Thinking of you cards were sent to Walter and Vivian Schumacher at the Copperas Hollow Nursing and Rehab Center, J.D. Lambrecht who is in a rehab center in Temple and to Lydie Supak at St. Joseph Manor Nursing and Rehab Center.

Birthday honorees are Joyce Krenek, Marvin Laffere, Glenn Faust, Donnie Blinka and Lonnie Supak.

Thanks go to everyone who volunteered to bring items for drawing prizes. Viola Bartek brought them in February, Mildred Miman and Kathy Supak provided prizes for the March meeting and Marsha Kocurek for April.

– Viola Bartek

May 2017 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 25

Maxwell to make donation for memorial dinner MAXWELL – Maxwell Lodge will observe Join Hands Day in two ways.

In May the lodge will present a donation to the Luling School of Dance to help with expenses The lodge also plans to make a donation to Bruce Germer, local businessman, who is planning a memorial dinner for the survivors of the hot air balloon crash last year that occurred between Maxwell and Lockhart. Sixteen people died in the accident. The dinner will be held in late July at Ebenezer Lutheran Church in Maxwell.

The Luling School of Dance will hold its spring recital Saturday, May 6, at 2 p.m. at the Luling High School Fine Arts Building, 218 E. Travis St. Several members will travel

Members attending the April meeting of Maxwell Lodge included, back, from left, Baldwin Fehlis, Ronnie Duesterheft, Betty Duesterheft, Gerry Burklund, Laura Bohmfalk, Darlene Bohmfalk, front, from left, Emma Jean Schulle, Elsie Croley, Catherine Blackard, Betty Fehlis and Charles Croley. to Luling for the recital followed by dinner at Blake’s Café.

Agent Charles Croley spoke briefly on the upcoming Camp

season open to junior members ages 9-13.

There will be no meetings in June or July.

Door prize winners were

Maxwell Lodge members donning their bonnets for the Easter parade at the April meeting were, back, from left, Gerry Burklund, Laura Bohmfalk, Darlene Bohmfalk, front, from left, Elsie Croley, Catherine Blackard and Charles Croley.

Charles and Elise Croley.

Several members donned cute Easter hats.

A variety of pasta, chicken,

tuna, fruit and vegetable salads were served along with desserts and iced tea.

– C. Blackard

Fredericksburg Lodge will honor mothers May 9 FREDERICKSBURG – Fredericksburg Lodge will meet on May 9, the second Tuesday of the month because the Grand Lodge Convention will be taking place on the first Tuesday. The social begins at 6 p.m. Mothers will be honored. Games will follow the meeting, which will feature a hamburger supper.

The lodge will furnish the hamburgers and officers will furnish the chips. Members and guests are asked to bring a side dish along with a plate and utensils.

Contact Hans Enderlin at 830895-2176 or Windy Duecker at 830-997-2983 for more information.

Members and guests enjoyed a chicken spaghetti supper before the April 4 meeting. A memorial service was held to honor the 18 members who passed away in 2016. Family members present received a carnation and a candle was lit in memory of each deceased member.

One new junior member was welcomed.

The lodge will partner with the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life event. Volunteers will help set up the Relay for Life site at the Fairgrounds on May 12 beginning at 10:30 a.m. The Relay for Life Rally will be held on Saturday, May 13, from 4-10 p.m.

Condolences were extended to the families of Bette Basse and Carolyn Helmers.

Attendance prizes were awarded to Robert Beckmann and Katherine Cornehl.

– Reporter

Celebrating April birthdays at the Fredericksburg Lodge meeting were, from left, Cindy Rode, Florence Terry, Annie Cornehl and Lou Awalt.

Plum Lodge meetings now second Mondays at 7 p.m.

PLUM – The meeting time for Plum Lodge has changed. Meetings are now held on the second Monday of the month at 7 p.m. A meal is served prior to the meeting at 6 p.m. Members are encouraged to come earlier to visit or play games. Everyone is welcome.

The next meeting is set for May 8 and Mother’s Day will be celebrated. Sandwiches, chips and dips will be served.

At the Feb. 13 meeting, Pamela Kay Matula was welcomed as a new member.

Henry and Elenora Reiss cel-

ebrated 60 years of marriage on Feb. 26.

Celebrating anniversaries in January were Weldon and Charlene Meinen and Wallace and Verlene Hobratschk.

January birthday celebrants were Myrtle Harbers, Wallace Hobratschk and Charleen Koopmann. The only February birthday celebrant was Bob Wessels.

Monetary door prize winners were Verlene Hobratschk, Wallace Hobratschk, William Hunger and Gene Wessels.

Mark Alan Miller’s name was

drawn for the progressive prize drawing but he was not in attendance to claim the prize.

Everyone enjoyed sandwiches, chips and dips.

The lodge began the year with the loss of its president, Wilbert Gross, who had held the position for 15 years. Wilbert Hoffmann has stepped in and is now the lodge’s president.

Linda Mattox, the lodge’s agent, was in attendance at the March meeting. She reminded parents that information for summer camp had been mailed to eligible

members. If your child is eligible and wants to attend camp but didn’t receive a registration packet, call the Grand Lodge or one of the lodge’s officers, President Wilbert Hoffmann, Corresponding Secretary Charleen Koopmann or Financial Secretary Wallace Hobratschk.

Agent Mattox also reminded parents and grandparents that an insurance policy would be an excellent gift for a graduating senior.

Everyone enjoyed salads and desserts.

President Hoffmann will serve

as the lodge’s delegate to the Grand Lodge Convention in San Marcos May 1-3.

Door prizes winners at the March meeting were Wilbert Hoffmann, Charleen Koopmann, Jim Mattox and Ruth Wessels.

Blake M. Hensel would have taken home the progressive prize winnings but he was not at the meeting.

A drawing for the progressive prize is held each month but the person whose name is drawn must be at the meeting to win.

– Verlene R. Hobratschk

Page 26 – Hermann Sons Life – May 2017

Rosenberg-Richmond Lodge will meet June 12 ROSENBERG – RosenbergRichmond Lodge will meet June 12. Hamburgers will be served.

Members are asked to bring desserts.

A fried chicken meal was served at the April 10 meeting held at the Rosenberg Civic Center.

Members brought vegetables, salads and desserts. Florence Orsak and Margaret Klobedans were in charge of the kitchen.

Margie Krenek gave the blessing.

Wesley Norris was welcomed as a new member. Tawnya Witcher was welcomed as a new member by way of transfer from El Campo Lodge.

Rosalie Byrd reported that sympathy cards were sent to Jerome and Patsy Kubes, Helen Hupe and Ray Lehrmann. Getwell cards were sent to Emma

Rosenberg-Richmond Lodge members celebrating April birthdays were Anne Juergens, Rosalie Byrd, LaVerne Tiemann, Lloyd Engelhardt, Robbie Hartfiel, Raymond Schmidt, Justin Lamensky, Archie Zabel, Mike Kassey and Alex Schmidt.

Lee Marek, Evelyn Schmidt, Steve Brown and David Frels.

A moment of silence was observed in memory of Elroy H. Hupe, Grand Vice President-Market-

ing Tim Kolbe presented a retirement certificate to agent Joyce Lamensky. Sister Lamensky was an agent for 14 years.

Fred and Margaret Maynard, Florence Orsak and Marjorie Or-

Celebrating wedding anniversaries in April are, left, RosenbergRichmond Lodge members Lloyd and Margie Engelhardt along with Grand Vice President-Marketing Tim Kolbe and wife Cheryl. sak donated door prizes.

Cathy Winsor, Margaret Klobedans, Otto Tiemann, Susie Palacios, Jane Maynard and Marjorie Orsak won the attendance prizes.

A 50/50 drawing was held. The winner was Calvin Lamensky.

The other half will be donated to the Grief Support Session at Hermann Sons-Camp.

– Loyce Anderson

Paul Vogt Lodge will donate to Threads of Love VAN RAUB – Paul Vogt Lodge will donate to Threads of Love in observance of Join Hands Day. Threads of Love ministers to preemie babies and their families as well as those who have suffered a baby loss. Ladies gather weekly at Oak Hills Church in San Antonio to sew, knit, quilt and crochet items of clothing and accessories for the babies and to pray over each item that is made.

The group’s purpose is to

bring hope and comfort to the parents as they live in a world of day-to-day uncertainty about their baby’s health.

The lodge will purchase fabric, yarn and other items and members are asked to make donations of items that can be used.

The historic lodge hall on Dietz Elkhorn in Fair Oaks Ranch has received some much-needed repairs thanks to some dedicated members.

Last fall Nancy Griffin, Mary Lou Zoeller, Betty Friar, Bar-

bara Marquardt and Chrysti Friar painted the entire inside of the building. They donated all the materials and Betty Friar donated all of the paint. Cory Friar and others painted the outside a deep red. Virgil Feller, Glenn Marquardt, Fred Friar, the Zoeller family, the Thompson family and Cory Friar made other needed repairs such as replacing parts of the wooden structure.

In January, Betty Friar donated a microwave to replace the bro-

ken one. Other projects so far in 2017 include connecting to the San Antonio Water System and additional roof repairs to patch leaks completed by Barbara and Glenn Marquardt. The roof needs to be replaced but members are hoping the repairs will prevent further damage until funds are available.

At the April meeting, members voted to increase dues for adults to $6 per year and juniors to $3 per year.

– Reporter

Vineta Lodge will honor moms at May 4 meeting SAN ANTONIO – Vineta Lodge will honor mothers on May 4. The meal will come from Olive Garden.

A social meeting will begin at 10 a.m. on May 17. Members will play bunco followed by lunch.

Thanks go to Beth Byron for serving the meal at the April social meeting and Mary Ann Pintaric for furnishing the dessert.

On July 19, the lodge will host a scholarship fund-raiser. Prizes for the drawing and attendance

prizes are needed. Call Ruth Bailey at 210-602-5147 if you can help.

Split-the-pot winner was Debbie Jordan.

Attendance prize winners were Lorene Kreusel, Lucille Stremmel, Yvonne Anderson and Emily Roberts.

The lodge mourns the passing of Vivian Traugott, a member for 31 years, and Sandra Jean Williams, a member for 53 years.

– Reporter

Mary Lou Zoeller, left, celebrated her birthday in March. She is pictured with Paul Vogt Lodge President Pearl Barnard.

Highland Lakes welcomes all to meeting June 4

Celebrating a birthday at the April Vineta Lodge meeting was Ronnie Bara. President Debbie Jordan presented with a card from the lodge.

KINGSLAND – Highland Lakes Lodge will meet Sunday, June 4, at the Highland Haven Community Center.

The social hour begins at noon. The meeting begins at 1 p.m. and will be preceded by a meal featuring fried catfish. Joe Schott has agreed to provide the Lake Buchanan catfish.

All members are welcome and encouraged to attend.

– Reporter

May 2017 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 27

Bandera County hosts Senior Fun Day at Home COMFORT – Bandera County Lodge hosted its annual Senior Fun Day on April 1 at the Retirement Home in Comfort.

The day included an ice cream social and a performance by the Ukulele Ladies and Gents.

“Rock and Roll” was the music theme and residents and musicians were seen dancing to the Twist and other 50s and 60s music.

The Bandera County School of Dance will hold its annual recital on May 13 at Bandera High School. The recital starts at 2 p.m. and the public is invited.

The lodge will observe Join Hands Day on May 20 at the Cedar Creek Nursing facility in Bandera. Members will bring the residents a snack and the Ukulele Ladies will perform.

No June or July meetings are scheduled.

The Ukulele Ladies and Gents performed for the residents at the Retirement Home in April.

Resident Kathy Bender and Joe Gagliardi from Bandera County Lodge took to the dance floor during the lodge’s Senior Fun Day at the Retirement Home in April.

Residents and members of Bandera County Lodge danced the afternoon away during the lodge’s Senior Fun Day at the Retirement Home.

Retirement Home residents enjoyed hearing a performance by the Ukulele Ladies and Gents and the ice cream social hosted by Bandera County Lodge.

Houston plans potluck meal for June 12

Winners of Easter baskets at the Austin Lodge April meeting were, from left, Pat Spradling, O’Neil Weigelt, Edna Weigelt and Gay Stark.

Austin Lodge to meet May 7 AUSTIN – Austin Lodge will meet Sunday, May 7, at 2 p.m.

Members are asked to bring sandwiches, chips, dips and desserts.

At the April 2 meeting members agreed to make a monetary donation to the Ben Hur Shriner’s Burn Hospital in Galveston in observance of Join Hands Day. Mary Shugart won the attendance prize and Kimberly Lindsey received the kitty.

– Reporter

HOUSTON – Houston Lodge will meet June 12 with a potluck meal and desserts to be provided by members.

At the March meeting, a resolution was read in memory of Warren B. Fleming.

Jackie Bushman, Justin Falkenberg, Samantha Thomason, Pat Bushman and Lavina Patterson won door prizes.

Welcomed as new junior members were Collette Jenault, William Jenault V, Taylor Yates and Raleigh Yates.

The lodge’s new member goal for 2017 is 10. This is new Hermann Sons members, not transfers.

Members should make it their goal to bring in at least one new member. Contact Special Representative Gary

Gary Falkenberg and granddaughter Emily Falkenberg celebrate their birthdays in March. They are members of Houston Lodge.

Falkenberg for more information.

To keep up to date with lodge events, meetings and more, go

to www.hermannsonslife.org/ lodges/HOUSTON. – Reporter

New Bielau to visit residents, play games Jim Reed celebrated his April birthday at the Austin Lodge meeting.

WIEMAR – New Bielau Lodge members will observe Join Hands Day on May 11 at Parkview Manor Nursing Home. Members will visit and play games with the residents. Beginning at 2 p.m. a short

meeting will be held and snacks will be served before the games.

At the March 27 meeting held at the New Bielau Community Center, birthday celebrants Robert Ulrich and Rita Addicks

were recognized.

Following the meeting, members enjoyed fried chicken and side dishes provided by the members.

– Reporter

Page 28 – Hermann Sons Life – May 2017

Lockhart invites members, guests to May 8 meeting

LOCKHART – Lockhart Lodge will meet Sunday, May 8, at Chisholm Trail Barbecue at 6 p.m.

Members are encouraged to attend and bring a prospective member.

The lodge honored graduating high school seniors with a party at Garcia’s Restaurant during the regular meeting on April 2.

After President Ann Schroeder opened the meeting, Youth Coordinator Carol Schuelke gave the blessing and 37 graduates, family and friends enjoyed a Mexican dinner.

After a welcoming speech filled with encouraging words

by Carol Schuelke, Vice President Nicky Duewall presented the honorees in attendance, Erin Hess, Brooke Banda-Segura and Benjamin Visage, with a graduation gift from the lodge.

The seniors shared their plans after graduation. Erin will attend Blinn Junior College in College Station. Brooke plans to attend Texas Lutheran University in Seguin and Benjamin plans to attend Texas A&M-Corpus Christi.

Gifts will be mailed to Jake Holland, Coy Hollar, Cameron Kirk, Justin Law, Annie Porter, Taylor Tatom and Kaysen Vickery.

Junior member William Hyland

Lockhart Lodge junior member William Hyland receives a donation toward his Eagle Scout project presented by his grandmother, President Ann Schroeder. thanked the lodge for the donation toward his Eagle Scout project.

Janice Kuhen, Grand Finance Committee member and agent, reminded graduates to notify the Home Office of their new address when they move away from home so they will continue to receive the Hermann Sons Life newspaper and also encouraged them to attend meetings when they are home from college.

Door prize winners were Nancy Hess, McKenzie Hess, Christine Segura and Lil Pfefferkorn.

– Reporter

Lockhart Lodge honored graduating high school seniors at the April meeting. The seniors in attendance were, from left, Erin Hess, Brook Banda-Segura and Benjamin Visage.

Prize winners at the April meeting of Lockhart Lodge were, from left, Nancy Hess, Lil Pfefferkorn, McKenzie Hess and Christine Segura.

Lockhart Lodge recognized birthday celebrant Margaret Hyland at the April meeting. She turned 9 on April 2.

Helotes Lodge to honor pioneers June 13

Honorees at the April meeting of Gay Hill Lodge were, from left, Bradley and Patsy Fischer, anniversary; Julie Fischer, birthday; and Shonda and Robert Ziese, anniversary. Mary Jo and Stanley Klekar were the April hosts.

Gay Hill has new member GAY HILL – David and Doris Roehling and Charlie Schroeder and Janice McLendon will host the May meeting of Gay Hill Lodge.

Mary Jo and Stanley Klekar prepared the meatloaf dinner served at the April meeting.

Ruth Ganske read a note from the Temple VA thanking

the lodge for its donation. She announced that one gallon and one quart of can tabs were collected and delivered to help fund dialysis treatments in Brenham.

Welcomed as a new member was Swayzee Renee Schroeder.

– Reporter

HELOTES – Helotes Lodge will honor its 60-year and plus pin recipients during the June 13 meeting. It begins at 7 p.m. at Braun Hall.

Those members being honored that day will be Charles Menn, E.J. Menn, Mary Marsh, Gerald Nickel and Lawrence

Schenk, 70 years; and Peter Koch, Rita Benson and Larry Bitzkie, 60 years.

Also at that meeting, the lodge will make final plans for its Make a Difference Day project in October. The lodge will provide food and drinks for a lunch for the Habitat for Humanity vol-

unteers. Help will be needed to make sandwiches and put the lunches together.

Door prize winners at the March meeting were Mary Lee Sloan, Al Michalczak, Helen Hitzfeld, Letty Fragoso and E.J. Menn.

– Reporter

Columbia Lodge will meet again on May 7 DALLAS – Greetings from Columbia Lodge in Dallas. There is lots of stuff going on at the Hall including swing dancing, guitar picking, concerts and First Friday celebrations. You can find it all at the Hall. The only thing missing is you. There are several volunteer positions available at the Sons of Hermann Hall.

The Deep Elm Arts Festival and the pancake breakfast have been

held and everyone is looking forward to SonsStock in August.

There is still time to sign up to play on the big stage, set up a booth and sell stuff or be the chef who creates the most delicious dishes for all to consume.

The general meeting was held last month and not much has really changed, although a lengthy discussion was held about the well being of the Hall. I apolo-

gize for the misleading information last month in the newsletter about the time of the meeting.

I was not informed of the time change until after the newsletter had gone to press. It was nice to see so many faces from the past.

The lodge’s next meeting will be held Sunday, May 7, at 3 p.m. All members are welcome and encouraged to attend.

– David Moynihan

May 2017 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 29

Louise Schuezte will meet at La Fonda on June 12

Celebrating birthdays at the April Louise Schuetze Lodge meeting were, from left, Lynn Wiede, Judy Schulmeier, Debbie Gold and Vincent Schwab. Alice Naughton won the attendance prize and Brother Schwab won split-the-pot. For the June 12 meeting, the lodge will be treating its members to dinner out at La Fonda, 8633 Crown Hill Blvd., San Antonio. Guests will be asked to pay for their own meals.

Members are asked to call the lodge office if they plan to attend.

Louise Schuetze Lodge member Janet Abell and husband Philip celebrated their 47th wedding anniversary in March. The lodge will not meet in May because of the Grand Lodge Convention.

Elizabeth and Lloyd Markell celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary in April. Sister Markell is a member of Louise Schuetze Lodge. Brother Markell, who celebrated his birthday in March, is a member of Siemering Lodge.

Corpus Christi plans covered dish meal, games June 5 CORPUS CHRISTI – Corpus Christi Lodge will not meet again until Monday, June 5, when members gather at the Hilltop Community Center for games and a covered dish dinner. The May meeting has been cancelled because of the Grand Lodge Convention.

Members gathered in April for a potluck dinner and games.

In March, members took part in a Join Hands Day project by helping to feed the homeless of Corpus Christi. Members also provided toiletries to the more than 300 people in the community who do not have a home.

The 50/50 winner was Vice President Paul Hood.

– Reporter

Corpus Christi Lodge members helped feed the homeless in observance of Join Hands Day. Taking part in the project were, above, from left, Pearl Hunt, Myrtle Blumberg, Cheryl Garcia and JoAnn Hood. Pictured with Sister Hood, left, in the photo to the right are Kerry Ginn and Ida Blankenship.

Door prize winners at the April meeting of Corpus Christi Lodge were, from left, Darlette Brandon, Bob Stephenson and Diana Rosas (with Braxton Rosas).

Shelly and Dewayne Hunt are celebrating 20 years together in May. The members of Corpus Christi Lodge have been married 11 years.

Robert Rosas celebrates his birthday in May. He is pictured with wife Diana. They are members of Corpus Christi Lodge.

Brittny Mcpheeters shows off the juice maker she won in the prize drawing held as part of the Retirement Home Chili Cook-off in March.

Page 30 – Hermann Sons Life – May 2017

Anton Wenzel to honor moms, dads at June meeting SAN ANTONIO – Anton Wenzel Lodge will not meet in May because of the Grand Lodge Convention.

Brisket will be served at the June meeting. Members are asked to bring a covered dish or dessert.

The lodge will be celebrating Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. Members receiving their 50-year, 60-year and 70-year pins this year will be honored.

The lodge will not meet in July because of the Fourth of July holiday.

Fiesta Hat Contest winners at the Anton Wenzel Lodge meeting in April were Judy Rodriguez, Veronica Galloway and Ruth Polendo.

Fried chicken was served at the April 4 meeting.

Welcomed as a new member was Heidi Blair Falcon.

The Fiesta Hat Contest was a big success. Congratulations go to Ruth Polendo for winning first prize and Veronica Galloway and

Judy Rodriguez for winning second and third.

Condolences are extended to the family of Leroy Guillory. He was a member of Anton Wenzel for 39 years.

This month’s membership drawing winner would have

been Dennis Mann.

He was not there to claim his prize so his name is back in the barrel.

Happy Anniversary wishes go to Diane and Joe Jaramillo and Lorene and Alfred Kreusel.

– Salina Barrientes

Anton Wenzel Lodge President Edward Elizondo presents Geraldine Kellner, center, and Ruth Polendo with a birthday card. The ladies celebrate their special days in May.

Edward Reid was the split-thepot winner at the April meeting of Anton Wenzel Lodge. He received his winnings from Lorene Kreusel.

Siemering Lodge to celebrate 126th anniversary May 9 SAN ANTONIO – Siemering Lodge will celebrate its 126th anniversary on May 9 at La Focaccia Italian Grill.

The restaurant is located at 800 S. Alamo and S. Presa St. Call the lodge office at 210226-6831 if you plan to attend.

Everyone is asked to wear pink.

Keep an eye on your mail.

The lodge has a renewed practice of mailing out personalized notes to members. Let an officer know if you have some information you wish to share.

After returning from the Grand Lodge Convention members will be delivering Join Hands Day donations of travel size personal care items to the Catholic Workers House.

Members are reminded to save aluminum can tabs of all kinds for “Can Tabs for Zach.”

These can be from beverages, pop top food cans, etc. They will benefit a Ronald McDonald House where Zach stays when he goes away for treatment.

– Augusta Fite

Members of Siemering Lodge expressed their artistic side at the April meeting. Everyone colored a picture and then gathered for a group photo to show off their work.

Susan Williams and daughter Lauren were welcomed as new members of Siemering Lodge at the April meeting.

Ronald Bara celebrated his birthday at the April Siemering Lodge meeting.

Stern to present pins June 4

Lloyd and Elizabeth Markell celebrated their 65th wedding in April.

He is a member of Siemering Lodge. She is a member of Louise Schuetze Lodge. Also celebrating in April were Katherine and Paul (not pictured) Hess.

SEGUIN – Stern Lodge will present membership pins at the Sunday, June 4, meeting to be held at the Seguin American Legion Hall beginning at 12 noon.

Recipients include Miles Engelke, 70-year pin; Brian Goebel and Larry and Ruby Engelke, 60-year pins; and Gail Younger and Carolyn Davis, 50-year pins.

At the April 2 meeting, the lodge welcomed a new social member, Brenda Moore.

Graduating Seguin High School senior Kirsten Bode was the recipient of the lodge’s scholarship for this year. Kirsten will attend Texas Lutheran University this fall.

Members voted to cancel the May meeting.

Attendance-prize winners were Lorrie Rangel, Barbara Morawietz and Buggy Engelke.

Everyone enjoyed a fried fish dinner.

– Reporter

May 2017 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 31

Agents Directory (alphabetized by area) Abilene Diane Marie Smith 325-665-2253

Corpus Christi Frank Brandon 361-241-5593

Gonzales Bobbie Polasek 830-672-6317

Adkins Alayna Menzer 210-413-0001

Pearl Hunt 361-241-0940

Greg Polasek 830-540-4812

McQueeney Stephen Weniger 830-743-2045

Troylyn Sisneros-Gonzalez 361-232-7413

Graham/Wichita Falls David Wolf 940-550-5202

Needville Melissa Kostelnik 713-304-1692

Hondo Stacy Saathoff 830-444-9160

Chris Stoeltje 979-559-6127

Roxy Pruski 210-667-1995 Austin Shirley Kuhen Faske 512-789-3975 Crystal Livingston 512-466-2433 Bandera Stephanie Brown 210-621-3891 Paul Heath, FIC 210-392-0760 Bellville Robert Herridge 979-865-3222 Bernardo/Columbus Terrel Maertz 979-732-1727 Boerne/Fair Oaks Carl Behrendt 210-422-1159 Pam Poulk 210-753-2626 Boerne Lisa Rozacky 210-838-3306 Bryan Katherine Akin, FIC 979-823-8625 Caldwell Donnie Blinka 979-596-1309 Canyon Lake Sandra Duncan 830-905-3233 Castroville/La Coste Roger Bippert 210-737-4070 Castroville Glenford Boehme, FIC 210-219-9792 Cibolo/Schertz Judith Schulmeier, FIC 210-667-1938 Comfort Norma Bruns, FIC 830-995-3980 Jean Merchant 830-995-3396 Betty H. Murphy 830-998-0860

Cuero Laura Tiffin Wayne Tiffin 361-275-8421 Dallas Helen Tyson Brown 214-796-0668

Houston Anna Larie Keith 281-259-6337

Del Rio Pat Fritz, FIC 432-292-4483

Sarah Spencer 361-550-1883

Devine Cynthia Sultenfuss 210-219-6409 Dee Stricker 210-414-0293 Edna/Jackson County Sam Matlock 361-782-3206 El Campo Dennis Wigginton 832-278-9636

Gerald Ziemnicki 713-622-9001 Jourdanton Valerie C. Craig 830-769-3128 Valerie M. Vick 210-748-5598 Katrina Wiatrek 210-326-9505 Lillian Wiede, FIC 830-769-3481

Floresville/Poth Beth Cutsinger 210-325-6667

Karnes City Abigail Fenner 830-534-6982

Floresville Lynn Wiede 830-393-4660

Russell Swize 830-780-4053

Fort Worth Sandra Jones, FIC 817-295-2666 Fredericksburg Todd Bierschwale 830-997-2130

Kerrville Mary Muehlstein 830-896-5750 Kirby Angela Netherton 210-831-1293

Dennis Henke 830-997-5290

La Coste Tanya Crisp 830-985-9230

George West Tracy Caron 361-449-0348

La Vernia Sharon Tanneberger, FIC 210-827-0526

Georgetown Brad Klein, FIC 512-497-0678

Marlin Tanneberger, FIC 210-827-7229

Giddings Loretta Chilek, FIC 979-542-2806 Linda Kieschnick, FIC 979-542-5224 Richard Symons 979-451-0988

Lubbock April Behnke 806-797-3585 Marion Lorene Bielke, FIC 830-420-2380 Maxwell Darlene Bohmfalk 512-558-2773

Charles Croley 512-357-6638

New Braunfels Cecilia “CC” Gagliardi 830-620-1060 Shirley Huebinger 830-822-1942 Rhonda Muehlstein, FIC 830-980-3162

Marketing Department Staff

210-527-9113 • 877-437-6266 • 888-839-7667

Grand Vice President-Marketing Tim Kolbe timk@hermannsonslife.org Markering Analyst Ana Vasquez, FLMI, AIRC, FIC anav@hermannsonslife.org Administrative Assistant Gladys Rowley gladysr@hermannsonslife.org Special Representatives: Dan Boenig - 210-705-1815 danb@texashermannsonslife.org Gary Falkenberg, FICF - 713-466-6069 • 713-899-4138 gfalken908@aol.com Alfred Stryk, FICF, LUTCF - 281-485-4095 alstryk@sbcglobal.net Teresa Saathoff - 210-276-0361 • 210-422-6996 tasaathoff@satx.rr.com Marilyn Vogt, FICF - 210-630-9874 marilynv@hermannsonslife.org Eulla May Krueger - 210-863-0546 • 830-985-3643 eullak@hermannsonslife.org

Tim Salge 830-625-4816

Maria Elisa Ashati 210-863-2217

Nixon-Smiley Blake Janicek 830-582-1581

Ruth Bailey 210-602-5147

Orange Grove Paula Gebert 361-384-2375 Paige RaChelle Dube 512-740-3518 Pflugerville Julius Dubcak 512-272-8393 Port Lavaca Nancy Annette Walraven 361-552-9403 Priddy Ruth Witzsche, FIC 325-966-3757 Richmond Tanya Witcher 281-652-6606 Rockdale Judy Marie York 512-446-5914 Rosenberg Joyce Lamensky 281-342-5174 Round Top/Rutersville Linda Mattocks 512-736-9988 Rowena Kay F. Halfmann 325-442-4731 San Antonio Philip A. Abell 210-771-1213

John Hoog 210-226-8801 Darlene Irwin 210-392-2649 Rayna Sue Irwin 210-710-7038 Clif Klabunde, FIC 830-980-4020 Valentin Lucero, FIC 210-725-6535 Jim McNeel 210-601-2097 Emma Moya 210-344-3935 Doug Saathoff 210-276-0361 Greg Sterner 210-363-0373 Veronica Trejo 210-710-0932 San Marcos Janice Kuhen 512-393-1431 Schulenburg/Weimar Mary K. Seifert 979-743-0312 Schwertner Irene Schwertner 254-527-4470 Sealy Joanie Griffin 979-398-0706

Seguin/San Antonio Carol Krauss, FIC 210-725-4106 Seguin Yolanda Gonzales 830-305-7445 Susan Perkovich 830-303-3496 Annette D. Roecker 830-832-0724 Tina B. Ynfante 210-859-1973 Diane Terp 830-305-3564 Smiley Diana P. Moreno 830-379-2244 Spring Branch Gloria Gass 830-885-4405 Lisa Lanphere 830-221-8128 Stockdale Ronald Wiatrek 830-996-3005 Victoria Jason Hybner 361-652-6924 Victoria/Yoakum Laura Thigpen 361-676-8307 Yoakum Mary Koenig 361-293-1743 Yorktown Judy Wolf 361-564-2452

A list of agents also is available online at www.hermannsonslife.org

Page 32 – Hermann Sons Life – May 2017

Shining Stars

ALEXANDER O’BRIEN is a member of Manchaca Lodge. He is in fourth grade. His favorite food is pizza and his favorite TV show is “Teen Titans Go.” Alexander has a pet dog, Spirit.

His activities include Game Design Club, trumpet, video games, art and playing with Nerf guns.

OLIVER O’BRIEN is a member of Manchaca Lodge. He is in first grade. His favorite food is pizza and his favorite TV show is “Game Shakers.”

Oliver has a pet dog, Spirit, and fish, Tiger, Stripes and Bonus. His activities include drums, Cub Scouts and he collects stuffed animals.

REECE NOLAN BLANSITT is a member of Schulenburg Lodge. He is in 3K. His favorite foods are pizza, hamburgers and s’mores. His favorite TV shows are “Paw Patrol” and “Power Rangers.”

Reece has pet dogs and cats.

His activities include baseball and driving his Jeep.

CADEN HEATH is a member of Bandera County Lodge. He is in seventh grade. His favorite foods are tacos and lasagna and his favorite TV show is “The Walking Dead.”

Caden has a pet dog, Bella.

His activities include football, basketball and golf.

KADEN WILLIAMS is a member of Flatonia Lodge. He is in fifth grade. His favorite foods are pizza and hot wings. His favorite TV shows are WWE and Sports Center.

Kaden has two pets, Bennie and Sasha. His activities include baseball and video games.

KEELY WILLIAMS is a member of Flatonia Lodge. She is in seventh grade. Her favorite foods are pasta, cotton candy and ice cream. Her favorite TV show is “Good Luck Charlie.”

Keely has two pets, Bennie and Sasha. Her activities include softball and painting.

KAMRYN WILLIAMS is a member of Flatonia Lodge.

She is in prekindergarten. Her favorite foods are snow cones and strawberries. Her favorite TV show is “The Mickey Mouse Clubhouse.”

Kamryn has two pets, Bennie and Sasha. Her activities include playing with her friends.

JAXSON FERGUSON is a member of Bandera County Lodge. He is in preschool. His favorite foods are mac and cheese and chicken nuggets. His favorite TV shows are “Mickey Mouse” and “P.J. Masks.”

Jaxson loves all sports, especially football and soccer.

Sign up to be a Shining Star and see photos of our Shining Stars online at

May Flower Word Search

www.hermannsonslife.org

Aster Crocus Daffodil Daisy Geranium

You can be a Shining Star too! Just send us a photo of yourself (that we can keep) and fill out this form and send to: Laura Adams, P.O. Box 1941, San Antonio, TX 78297. The form is also available online, www.hermannsonslife.org. Shining Stars are also featured online.

Honeysuckle Lavender Lilac Lily Marigold

Orchid Pansy Sunflower Tulip Violet

Name: Birthday: Home Phone: Daytime Phone: Address: City:

Mother’s Day Crossword Puzzle

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 No.

Certificate No.______________________________________________________

ACROSS 2. A short name for mother 5. A present 7. How about some ____ and kisses 8. The season is ____ 9. She might plant these in her garden.

DOWN 1. We might go ____ Grandma.

3. How about some hugs and ____ 4. We say ____ you for the gifts 6. Mail a ____ to Grandma.

Answers to both puzzles on Pg. 16