October 2023

Saluting our German heritage October German American Heritage Month

SAN ANTONIO – October is German American Heritage Month and German American Day is observed on Oct. 6. In celebration, Hermann Sons Life is sharing its rich German heritage.

During this month of German celebration, we are reminded of the importance of heritage and family, and how they have helped shape who we are today. While many of our members today are not of German ancestry, Hermann Sons Life is still united by the noble attributes of the German immigrant – financial security for families, quality family life and community support.

Fraternalism began by people with common interests pooling their resources for the benefit of all.

Past Vice Chair of the Board of Directors Mike Beam recently shared Hermann Sons Life history at a Harmonia Lodge meeting and was invited to share his report with our readers:

By MIKE BEAM

Past Vice Chair of the Board

Sons of Hermann formed as a mutual aid society July 29, 1840, in New York to assist German immigrants during heavy German immigration to the United States. By 1847, the membership had grown to over 800 in six northern states. At a convention held in Milwaukee in 1848, a Grand Lodge was organized with offices in New York City. The newly created Order adopted as its motto, “Friendship, Love and Loyalty.”

The order got its beginning in Texas when the Grand Lodge in New York sent John Lemnitzer, a member of Genesse Lodge of Rochester, New York, with Jakob Goll, another member of the Order, to Texas and they took up residence in San Antonio where at the time were several German immigrants.

On New Year’s Day 1860, a group of German-speaking citizens met and ‘talked Her-

mann Sons.’ Later that day they voted to form a lodge. Permission was received from the National Grand Lodge and on July 6, 1861, a lodge was formed and became Harmonia Lodge with 22 charter members. John Lemnitzer returned to New York to become an official at the National Grand Lodge. Jakob Knoll remained in San Antonio, became the first president of Harmonia Lodge and remained in San Antonio for the rest of his life. Three months after being organized, the first death was recorded, Heinrich Wegner on Sept. 27, 1861. The lodge paid $24 for both the coffin and the gravesite. The widow received assistance from the lodge for a considerable time. On March 28, 1866, the lodge voted to apply for a charter from the State of Texas. It was not received until Aug. 13, 1870. This gave the lodge legal status in Texas.

See HERMANN Pg. 3

Hermann the Cherusci leads rebels

By MIKE BEAM

Past Vice Chair of the Board

Arminius was born a Prince of the Cherusci. He was most likely raised as a child hostage in Rome. He was given all the rights and education of a Roman citizen and was given command of an Auxiliary Cohort (about 580 legionnaires) a great honor for a non-Roman. He was posted on the Rhine under the Roman Governor Publius Q. Varus who was tasked to complete the conquest of Germania.

During his posting on the Rhine, Arminius saw the Roman oppression his people endured. His loyalty to his people caused him to secretly become the leader of the rebels. Using his position in the Roman Army, he befriended Varus and led him and his three legions into a trap in the Teutoburger Forest. Varus and his three legions were decimated by the rebel armies.

See ARMINIUS, Pg. 3

HERMANN SONS LIFE

USPS 242200

Periodicals Postage Paid at San Antonio, Texas

Published Monthly by HERMANN SONS LIFE

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

POSTMASTER:

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

DIRECTORS

Kimberly Krueger, Chair

David Wolf, Vice Chair

David R. Noak

Stan Steiger

Laura Tiffin

Gerald Ziemnicki

OFFICERS

President and CEO

Robin Czarnek

Vice President of Operations and COO

Samantha Schulmeier Kelley

Vice President of Member Benefits

Cecily Kelly

Vice President of Sales

Teresa Saathoff

LAWS COMMITTEE

Stephen Prewitt

Edward J. Muehlbrad

Agnes Dreibrodt

Elizabeth Byron

Mary Beam

Sherry Rakowitz

Tammy Jones

Todd Marquardt

President's Message

German immigrants paved the way for Hermann Sons Life

By ROBIN CZARNEK President and CEO

October not only brings with it cooler temperatures and fall colors, but this month also comes alive with vibrant colors, sounds and flavors of Germany as we celebrate German Heritage Month The month of October was chosen because it marks significant historical events, such as the arrival of the first German immigrants to America

mans have made so many valuable contributions to our country including science, art, music, literature and even founding the organization we now know as Hermann Sons Life, just to name a few

Pat Bushman

Steven Schellenberg

Harry Schriber

Ronald Wiatrek

Annette Roecker

Arthur R. Pfefferkorn

Barbara Anderle

MEMBER BENEFITS COMMITTEE

Eulla Krueger

Shirley Faske

Cheryl Garcia

This celebration is a recognition of the rich history and culture of German society that is so woven throughout Hermann Sons Life’s story German Heritage Month originated to honor German immigrants who helped shape the history and culture of the United States, as well as Hermann Sons Life . Ger-

Our roots date back as far as 18 BC when our namesake Hermann (Arminius in Latin) was born Please be sure to check out the story of our history in this month’s edition on the front page and page 3, or you can view it on our website under the Who We Are tab It gives a timeline of our history German Heritage Month also serves as a reminder of the diverse immigrant history of the United States So many ancestors came from countries from all over the world in search of a better life for their families with

Lodge Reports

Bradley Klein

Angela Netherton

Joyce Kneupper

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT COMMITTEE

Judith Schulmeier

Gilbert Shelby

Marsha Kocurek

Pat Klotz

Tommy Daum

Robert Prewitt

BUSINESS OPERATIONS COMMITTEE

Kerry Ginn

Anna Larie Keith

Charles Knibbe

Pat Spradling

Gary Falkenberg

David Lewis

the promise of the American dream It’s beautiful to see how far we’ve come as a country and as an organization by embracing new members from all walks of life By doing so, we welcome differing perspectives and traditions and create a more enriching experience for all This is wonderfully exemplified at our Camp in Comfort Our beloved Executive Camp Director Ian Brassett, who was raised in England, and Vice President of Member Benefits Cecily Kelly have made it possible to hire counselors and staff from a number of other countries to work at our summer camp This creates an even more culturally rich environment for our campers, counselors and staff alike as they get to share and experience so many unique things

about each other’s home coun-

tries

While we have come a long way since our “passing the hat” days of our founding fathers, no doubt their message of fraternalism still rings true today through our acts of community service, not only in Texas, but across the globe They have paved the way for countless contributions in the lives of Hermann Sons Life members and their communities as we work to strengthen the world around us I am thankful that we can still celebrate the German roots of our beginning while welcoming members from every background Hermann Sons Life has amazing members and benefits and it’s too special to keep to ourselves .

1,

3

14-15

15

Oktoberfest celebrates German heritage

SAN ANTONIO – Hermann Sons

Life is proud to share its German ancestry with the Beethoven Mannerchor of San Antonio, one of the oldest German singing societies in Texas, and is a sponsor of its annual Oktoberfest.

This year’s event will be held Oct. 6-7, and 13-14, in downtown San Antonio at 422 Pereida St. at South Alamo.

Dubbed as the “most authentic Oktoberfest in San Antonio, the schedule for Oct. 6 includes a Beethoven Dance Band at 5 p.m., keg tapping at 6:15 p.m., Beethoven Concert Band at 7 p.m., Stein Hoisting at 8 p.m., Mannerchor and Damenchor at 8:15 p.m. and the Beethoven Big Band at 9 p.m.

On Oct. 7, El Boom Squad will perform at 5:30 p.m., the

Beethoven Concert Band is set for 7 p.m. and Stein Hoisting at 8:15 p.m.

The fun continues Oct. 13-14 with “the best German food and beer in town!”

The Beethoven Männerchor’s purpose is to preserve German

Arminius becomes a hero

Con’td from Pg. 1

song, music, and language. The Beethoven Männerchor has stood as a beacon of German culture and heritage since its founding in February of 1867. For more information and to purchase tickets, call 210-2221521.

Hermann Sons pioneers create first fund

Cont’d from Pg. 1

“To provide funding for deaths, the lodge created the Widows and Orphans Fund. Each member would contribute to the fund at each lodge meeting. If a death occurred, the membership fund was used to assist the widow and orphans of deceased members.

“The subject of life insurance came up in a Harmonia Lodge meeting on Dec. 18, 1873. A committee was formed to review connecting obligatory life insurance to all members. No immediate action was taken at that time. On July 1, 1875, the life insurance idea was ap-

proved by the lodge members and Harmonia Lodge asked the National Grand Lodge to institute a life insurance program and make participation mandatory for all members.

“The National Grand Lodge gave approval and on Sept. 22, 1876, it was announced each brother would be entitled to $300 of life insurance and $60 for the death of a wife. New members would be required to purchase life insurance as a requirement of membership. Due to an increase in membership, the life insurance was raised to $500. This is the beginning of the life insurance company which exists today.

Events

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

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

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

OCTOBER

“In 1890, the Grand Lodge Order of Hermann Sons in Texas was chartered. At the convention in 1921, the Grand Lodge in Texas severed its ties with the National Grand Lodge. This occurred due to the Texas Grand Lodge having a large amount of money and the National Grand Lodge wanting it.

“I must give credit to Bill Noble for most of the historical information here. Bill has long since passed but served as Public Relations Director for several years. He authored the Grand Lodge of Texas Centennial booklet from which much of the local knowledge was obtained.”

This was one of Rome’s worst defeats and caused the emperor Augustus to abandon his conquest of Germania.

Arminius became a hero to the rebels, and he continued to be their leader until jealousy by other rebel leaders caused his overthrow.

Hermann’s name in world history is Arminius. He became Hermann much later. The name Hermann was probably given to him by Martin Luther as a hero of the German people. In old German, Hermann means warrior or soldier.

Editor/Communications Director

Elaine Hernandez Soto

210-226-9261, ext. 279

email: elaines@hermannsonslife.org

Assistant Editor/Assistant Communications Director

Hannah Ruiz-Gruver

210-226-9261, ext. 102

email: hannahrg@hermannsonslife.org

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

Website: www.hermannsonslife.org

21 - Purse Bingo to benefit Grief Support Camp in the Hermann Sons Life Ballroom beginning at 11 a.m. Tickets cost $50 each and will include one bingo book for all games, lunch and 2 drinks. Extra bingo books will be available for purchase along with daubers and drinks. See Pg. 15 for more information.

28 - Make a Difference Day will be observed. This is one of two days during the year when Hermann Sons Life lodges come together to do great things in their communities.

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

Reports and photos can also be submitted online at hermannsonslife.org under Member Benefits, Officer Forms

The report deadline is the 10th of each month. For example, for the January issue, the deadline is Dec. 10.

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

This statue of Hermann is located in Detmold, Germany.

HSL can help you navigate all things Medicare

By TERESA SAATHOFF Vice President of Sales

Things have been very busy in the Sales Department!

We are excited to announce effective Oct. 1, there will be an increase to 5% interest on a new 5-Year Annuity contract. The new annuity will earn 5% interest with a 2% interest rate guarantee. The 5% current interest rate only applies to annuities written Oct. 1, 2023, and beyond. Please call to set an appointment with your local agent or call the Home Office for assistance.

Several of our agents have earned their Medicare certifications and we are excited and ready to help our senior members.

Medicare can be very confusing. Our agents are ready to answer any questions you have, evaluate your existing plan or help you enroll if you are eligible and new to Medicare.

This year we have partnered with Louis Kowalski and Kellogg Insurance. Louis and his wife Lizette both specialize in Medicare and have helped our agents navigate the ins and outs of Medicare. They both are a great resource to our agents and have provided extensive training and mentoring. Lizette shared the following article for our readers.

By Lizette A. Kowalski

If we are lucky, we will reach that milestone birthday that brings the promise of Medicare. With that comes the confusion of understanding Medicare and how it works.

Medicare can be complicated, but Hermann Sons Life is here to help! We will be dedicating articles and meetings in our lodges to help you navigate all things Medicare. In this first installment, we will break it down into four basic parts that include coverage for everything from hospital care to doctors’ visits to prescription medications. But first let’s start with a bit of history and a definition.

Medicare is health insurance provided by the federal government with monies that they have taxed out and deducted

from your paycheck during at least 40 quarters (10 years) of your working years. That is the FICA Federal Insurance Contribution Act.  FICA taxes are 15.3 percent of your earnings. You are responsible for half of your total bill (7.65 percent) which includes 6.2 percent for Social Security tax and 1.45 percent Medicare tax on your earnings. Medicare is NOT an entitlement. You paid for it!

Medicare was signed into law on July 30, 1965, by President Lyndon B. Johnson in Independence Missouri at President Truman’s Library. Medicare’s sole purpose was to provide health insurance for older Americans. Let’s now begin to make sense of this alphabet soup.

Part A – Automatic –Hospital Coverage

Who gets Medicare Part A automatically?

A person who is already receiving monthly Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board benefits.

A person that has disability benefits from Social Security or Railroad Retirement Board for 24 months and people with ALS or End Stage Renal Disease.

Part A covers hospital stays, hospice care, some skilled nursing care that you might require after being hospitalized for a stroke, a broken hip, or other condition that needs to take place in a nursing home or other facility, so you can get back on your feet.

Most people do not have to pay a premium for part A (remember FICA). However, Part

A is NOT totally free. This year 2023 Medicare charges a hefty deductible of $1,600 each time you are admitted to the hospital. Medicare essentially pays for all the hospital services for the first 60 days you are hospitalized. There are a few exceptions - the cost for a private room unless medically necessary, private duty nursing or TV charges.

If you are a U.S. citizen or resident and have not worked long enough to qualify for payment free Medicare Part A, you will be able to buy into the program by paying a premium. Part A covers 100 days of skilled nursing, the first 20 with no co-payments and from day 21-100, a daily copayment of $200.

Part B - Medical Insurance covers doctors, medical equipment (hospital beds, wheelchairs, CPAP machines, crutches etc.), preventive tests and vaccines, ambulance transports, outpatient services, laboratory tests, radiology studies, urgent care and emergency room visits.  This is more costly. Remember, we said that Part A could be automatic, that is NOT the case with Part B. Part B may charge a premium penalty if you do not sign up when you are first eligible. You will be responsible for the Late Enrollment Penalty for as long as you are in the program.

You are first eligible to enroll in Part B when you turn 65 years old or when you come off your group health insurance if you are still working past 65 years of age. In order to avoid the penalty, there cannot be a break in coverage of more than 63 days.

The federal government, through the Center of Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), the regulatory agency for all things Medicare, sets the Part B monthly premium each year based on your income. For 2023, it’s $164.90 per month if your income as an individual is at or below $97,000 annually or $194,000 annually as a couple. It may be higher if your income is higher. What you will pay in 2023 depends on your 2021 tax return. There is a “look back” period of two years and every year it adjusts accordingly. Depending upon your income, you may incur an increased cost for Medicare due to IRMAA. (Medicare Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount). IRMAA is referring to the EXTRA charges added to the monthly premium on Medicare Parts B and D. IRMAA is calculated on a sliding scale with five income brackets, topping out at $500,000 and $750,000 for individual and joint filing. You can find the income brackets for IRMAA at CMS.gov.

Part B also has a yearly deductible set at $226 for 2023. After

spending this amount on Part B services, you will be responsible for 20 percent of charges for your medical care. It is important to note that there is no cap on your out-of-pocket cost spent for Part B services.

Part C – Medicare Advantage

Up to this point we have been explaining Original Medicare, or what some like to call “basic” Medicare, individual health insurance provided by the federal government. There is another alternative through private health insurance companies also funded by the federal government. For anyone that chooses to enroll in a plan with a private health insurance company (which then becomes your provider of Medicare services), the federal government then pays a fee to the private health insurance company to provide your plan. That’s Part C (formerly referred to as CHOICE), now called a Medicare Advantage Plan. Medicare Advantage Plans are still Medicare, the difference is benefits are managed by the private sector.

See MEDICARE, Pg.12

Seguin Lodge member wins gift card

The Sales Department is recognizing 27 more recommenders for the month of August. This brings the total to 175 members recommending and a total of 232 new members to Hermann Sons Life in 2023. The winner of a $50 gift card for August is Elyanna Schmidt of Seguin Lodge.

Congratulations to the following recommenders:

"Shower Your Lodge with Membership!"

Recommender Agent

Janet M. Abel, Louise Schultze (3) Judith Schulmeier

Gabriella S. Acevedo, New Braunfels Shirley Huebinger

Ian J. Brassett, Comfort Christopher Naughton

Acey H. Brown, Orange Grove Paula Gebert

Olivia B. Castilleja, New Braunfels Shirley Faske

Eric B. Davis, Coupland Sandra Jones

Karaline M. Dorman, La Vernia Eulla Krueger

Jeffrey R. Dudek, La Vernia Marlin Tanneberger

Annika K. Eckel, Poth (3) Gladys Rowley

Fischer N. Grier, Marion Lorene Bielke

Jaelynn R. Hall, Kypfer-Salge (2) Celeste Salge

Tina M. Herzog, San Marcos Janice Kuhen

Everlyn J Johnson, Stockdale Ronald Wiatrek

Jessica L. Johnson, Biry Robin Sultenfuss

Julia N. Koltermann, Seguin (2) Gladys Rowley

Rene R. Kraus, Harmonia (2) Christopher Naughton

Mark A. Luensmann, Marion Marlin Tanneberger

Larry T. Mays, Mission-Alamo (4) Roxanne Pruski

Celestine A. Roberts, Prinz Solms Christopher Naughton

Cynthia L. Schmidt, Prinz Solms (2) Clifton Klabunde

Elyanna Schmidt, Seguin Annete Roecker

Katherine Sutherland, Bernardo Terrel Maertz

Holli M. Tietjen, Rutersville Linda Mattocks

Brody R. Wilkerson, Gonzales Bobbie Polasek

Eden R. Wilson, Lone Oak (2) Christopher Naughton

Karen D. Woody, Spring Branch Lisa Dishman

Agents Directory (alphabetized by area)

Adkins

Roxy Pruski • 210-218-6204

Alice

Eddie Ramon • 361-701-0480

Paula Gebert • 361-701-7527

Atascosa

Eulla Krueger • 210-863-0546

Austin Shannon Caldwell • 830-837-4535

Shirley Kuhen Faske • 512-789-3975

Brad Klein, FIC • 512-497-0678

Sean Warren • 512-593-0393

Beeville

Elsa Del Bosque • 361-319-5214

Bernardo/Columbus

Terrel Maertz • -979-732-1727

Boerne/San Antonio

Pamela Poulk • 210-753-2626

Brenham

Gary Falkenberg, FICF • 713-466-6069

Bulverde

Debbie Allen • 210-326-9753

Clif Klabunde, FIC • 210-219-6142

John E. Moore Jr. • 210-621-7842

Lisa Dishman • 281-744-3813

Caldwell

Donnie Blinka • 979-596-1309

Castroville

Glenford Boehme, FIC • 210-219-9792

Michael Franke • 830-444-4877 or 361290-3577

Jacqulynn Herrmann • 210-275-0429

Reagan Haby Rogiers • 210-695-5588

Laurie Steele • 210-414-4755

Cibolo/Schertz

Tracy Campos • 210-388-2779

Judith Schulmeier, FIC • 210-667-1938

Clifton

Sterling Goolsby • 254-709-5764

Comfort

Dennis Wigginton • 832-278-9636

Converse

Dan Boenig • 210-705-1815

Roxy Pruski • 210-218-6204

Corpus Christi

Elsa Del Bosque • 361-319-5214

Paula Gebert • 361-701-7527

Coupland

Brad Klein, FIC • 512-497-0678

Cuero

Wayne Tiffin • 361-564-8144

Laura Tiffin • 361-564-8141

Dallas

Mark Mundy • 214-202-8442

Gilbert Shelby • 214-289-1815

Devine

Laurie Steele • 210-414-4755

Cynthia Sultenfuss • 210-219-6409

Robin Sultenfuss • 210-854-4443

El Campo

Dennis Wigginton • 832-278-9636

Fayetteville

Linda Mattocks • 512-736-9988

Floresville/Poth

Beth Cutsinger • 210-325-6667

Floresville

Gladys Rowley • 210-219-6964

Lynn Wiede • 210-289-1378

Fort Worth

Sandra Jones, FIC • 817-781-7155

Fredericksburg

Todd Bierschwale • 830-997-2130

Georgetown

Brad Klein, FIC • 512-497-0678

Sean Warren • 512-593-0393

Giddings

Linda Mattocks • 512-736-9988

Gonzales

Bobbie Polasek • 830-672-6317

Helotes

Reagan Haby Rogiers • 210-695-5588

Rayna Sue Irwin • 210-710-7038

Hondo

Jacqulynn Herrmann • 210-275-0429

Laurie Steele • 210-414-4755

Margie Zinsmeyer • 830-426-0960

Houston

Gary Falkenberg, FICF • 713-466-6069

Jennifer Stryk Garner • 832-596-942

Terrel Maertz • 979-732-1727

Joseph Pugh • 281-844-8931

Gerald Ziemnicki • 713-622-9001

Jourdanton

Laurie Steele • 210-414-4755

Karnes City

Elsa Del Bosque • 361-319-5214

Katy

Terrel Maertz • 979-732-1727

Robert Muniz • 281-986-0357

Kilgore

Alexander Ramsey • 903-522-2285

Kirby Angela Netherton • 210-831-1293

La Grange

Linda Mattocks • 512-736-9988

Kyle Hartmann • 979-639-1439

La Vernia

Vicki Hinojosa • 210-338-5002

Marlin Tanneberger, FIC • 210-827-7229

Pauline Young • 210-338-5118

Roxy Pruski • 210-218-6204

League City

Joseph Pugh • 281-844-8931

Lockhart

Janice Kuhen • 512-393-1431

Marion

Lorene Bielke, FIC • 830-420-2380

830-305-6900 (cell)

Moulton

Judith Schulmeier, FIC • 210-667-1938

Needville /Rosenberg

Chris Stoeltje • 979-559-6127

Niederwald

Shirley Kuhen Faske • 512-789-3975

New Braunfels

Becki Lucas • 361-550-9358

Britney Cross • 281-450-6291

Brenda Heulitt • 830-832-1674

Shirley Huebinger • 830-629-1196

Clif Klabunde, FIC • 210-219-6142

Celeste Salge • 830-620-8515

Krystal Wilson • 623-698-8348

Garrett Czarnek • 210-315-8152

Nixon-Smiley

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

830-534-4989 (cell)

Orange Grove

Paula Gebert • 361-701-7527

Paige Linda Mattocks • 512-736-9988

Port Lavaca

Nancy Annette Walraven • 361-237-1757

Round Top

Linda Mattocks • 512-736-9988

Rutersville

Linda Mattocks • 512-736-9988

Kyle Hartmann • 979-639-1439

San Antonio Debbie Allen • 210-326-9753

Ruth Bailey • 210-707-3652

Rayna Sue Irwin • 210-710-7038

Clif Klabunde, FIC • 210-219-6142

Chris Naughton • 210-365-2009

Angela Netherton • 210-831-1293

Roxy Pruski • 210-218-6204

Gladys Rowley • 210-219-6964

John E. Moore Jr. • 210-621-7842

Sylvia Zapata • 210-426-4481

Lisa Dishman • 281-744-3813

San Marcos Allen Caldwell • 830-237-3217

Shirley Kuhen Faske • 512-789-3975

Janice Kuhen • 512-393-1431

Krystal Wilson • 623-698-8348

Shannon Caldwell • 830-837-4535

Schulenburg/Weimar

Mary K. Seifert • 979-743-0312

Seguin

Annette D. Roecker • 830-832-0724

Roxy Pruski • 210-218-6204

Shiner

Jillian Leigh McDonald • 361-594-2500

Jenny Chumchal Popp • 361-293-1329

Spring Branch

Debbie Allen • 210-326-9753

John E. Moore Jr. • 210-621-7842

Lisa Dishman • 281-744-3813

Stockdale

Ronald Wiatrek • 210-771-4354

Victoria

Elsa Del Bosque • 361-319-5214

Jason Hybner • 361-652-6924

Waxahachie Mark Mundy • 214-202-8442

Wimberley Shannon Caldwell • 830-837-4535

Allen Caldwell • 830-237-3217

Yorktown Judy Wolf • 361-564-2452

HERMANN SONS LIFE is a fraternal benefit society which recognizes that protecting the privacy and security of the personal information we obtain about our customers is an important responsibility. We are proud of the trust our members have placed in us since 1890 to transact business honestly, with our members’ best interest as a top priority. The Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act requires that we notify our customers annually about how we collect, use and safeguard their personal information. This Privacy Notice generally describes how we treat that information. This notice refers to HERMANN SONS LIFE using the terms “we,” “us” and “our.”

How we obtain information. We obtain most of the information we need directly from you on your application or other forms you complete, or from those you have authorized to provide information to us in connection with providing you insurance or administering claims. We also obtain information in the course of processing and recording your transactions with us and processing your claims for benefits.

Information we may obtain. The type of information we obtain depends on the product or service we are providing. The types of information we may obtain fall into the following three categories:

Customer Information. Customer information includes identifying information such as your name, address, telephone number, and demographic data about you. It also includes information about your transactions with us such as the type and value of our insurance products that you own and the amount of insurance premiums you pay to us.

Financial Information. Financial information may include information such as your credit history, income, assets, type and value of other insurance products you own or for which you have applied, and the amount of insurance premiums you pay to other insurance companies.

Health Information. Health information includes information about your health and medical history, and your insurance underwriting risk factors.

How we use the information we obtain. We use information about you for business purposes such as evaluating your request for insurance or other products or services, evaluating your claim for benefits, administering our products and services, and processing your transactions with us. We may also use information about you to offer you other products and services we provide.

Disclosure of information. There are no affiliated

financial institutions or third-party non-affiliates which have access to your nonpublic personal information, except pursuant to your written authorization. We will notify you prior to disclosing any information about you to a third party and you may opt out of such disclosures, other than those disclosures that are necessary to carry out our contractual obligations, such as processing claims and premium payments. If you have previously consented to third party disclosures, you may withdraw such consent by writing to us at the address below. We never sell information about you to others. We may disclose any information about you when necessary to administer products or services we provide; with your consent or at your direction; to protect the confidentiality of security of our own records; to prevent fraud; for internal risk control or to resolve disputes; to persons holding a legal or beneficial interest related to you; to persons acting in a representative or fiduciary capacity related to you; to provide information to our regulators, attorneys, accountants, and auditors; to consumer reporting agencies; in connection with a proposed or actual sale, merger, transfer, or exchange of all or a portion of our business; or when required by Federal, State, or local law, rule, or other legal requirement, such as in response to a subpoena or in the course of a compliance examination.

How we protect customer information. We maintain physical, electronic and procedural safeguards to protect all the information we have obtained from you. Information is accessed by our employees only when it is necessary, such as to administer our products or services and is always treated in a confidential manner. If we use a third party to perform services for us, including marketing of our products or services, we require that third party to maintain physical, electronic and procedural safeguards of your information to protect the confidentiality of your information. Our policy of protecting nonpublic personal information also extends to former customers who no longer have insurance with us.

Changes to our Privacy Notice. Our policy about obtaining and disclosing information may change from time to time. We will provide you with notice of any material change to this policy before we implement the change.

If you have questions regarding our privacy policy, you may reach us toll free at 1-800-234-4124. Or you may write us at: 515 S. St. Mary’s Street, San Antonio, Texas 78205

GEORGE T. DAVIS

Mission-Alamo Lodge

Died Jan. 12, 2010 • Age 92

LISA M. GARLAND

New Braunfels Lodge

Died Oct. 12, 2014 • Age 33

ROSA L. TOBIAS

Ellinger Lodge

Died July 31, 2018 • Age 91

DONALD F. WETZ

Harmonia Lodge

Died Aug. 6, 2018 • Age 78

WILLIDEAN MARWITZ

Priddy Lodge

Died Aug. 19, 2019 • Age 88

SANDRA L. KENNE

Cuero Family Lodge

Died Oct. 24, 2020 • Age 68

ALBERT B. KOTZUR

Bandera County Lodge

Died Dec. 10, 2020 • Age 80

MARGARET M. LOOS

Hochheim-Prairie Lodge

Died Feb. 25, 2021 • Age 81

WILLIAM E. KAULFUS

Waco Robinson Lodge

Died March 23, 2021 • Age 93

DOLORES F. LAWRENCE

Vineta Lodge

Died Nov. 27, 2021 • Age 79

WANDA L. BUSCH

Louise Schuetze Lodge

Died Dec. 6, 2021 • Age 84

In Memoriam of Our Deceased Members

MARVIN L. KUCERA

Da Costa Lodge

Died March 26, 2022 • Age 76

GERALD W. KASPER

Poth Lodge

Died June 8, 2022 • Age 68

ROSIE L. KUBIN

Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge

Died July 8, 2022 • Age 81

MYRON K. BLAIN

Harmonia Lodge

Died July 10, 2022 • Age 66

MARGARET F. JAMES

Pershing Lodge

Died Aug. 22, 2022 • Age 78

JOSEPHINE J. PFLUGHAUPT

Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge

Died Sept. 1, 2022 • Age 97

PATSY L. SLADE

Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge

Died Sept. 6, 2022 • Age 88

DANNY C. SENGER

Priddy Lodge

Died Nov. 26, 2022 • Age 55

OLIVIA B. SARRO

Pershing Lodge

Died Dec. 12, 2022 • Age 93

SHERRY L. MCGLOTHLIN

Roscoe Lodge

Died Dec. 23, 2022 • Age 73

JOY L. DRUSCHKE

Brenham Lodge

Died Feb. 8, 2023 • Age 87

Donations

BRUCE C. BAKER

Gonzales Lodge

Died March 1, 2023 • Age 80

ROY W. BRUEMMER

Spring Branch Lodge

Died April 15, 2023 • Age 95

RESA R. LAGARDE

New Braunfels Lodge

Died May 5, 2023 • 98

CHERYL S.L. DODD

La Vernia Lodge

Died May 20, 2023 • Age 71

WALTER A. WYRICH

La Vernia Lodge

Died June 2, 2023 • Age 77

NANCY PIETSCH

Rutersville Lodge

Died June 5, 2023 • Age 69

AMANDA L. DEICKE

Pershing Lodge

Died June 9, 2023 • Age 88

SCOTT A. CALDER

Dallas Lodge

Died June 11, 2023 • Age 54

GRACE S. BORMANN

New Braunfels County

Died June 19, 2023 • 86

COLLEEN K. HEIDAKER

Hochheim-Prairie Lodge

Died June 20, 2023 • Age 81

LORE M. MUSKE

Shelby Lodge

Died June 23, 2023 • Age 101

ANNA M. JOYCE

Giddings Lodge

Died June 26, 2023 • Age 97

JOSEPH B. WIATREK

Poth Lodge

Died July 2, 2023 • Age 89

ANTONE R. SCHRADER

Deanville Lodge

Died July 3, 2023 • Age 93

MILDRED GEIGENMILLER

Vineta Lodge

Died July 8, 2023 • Age 97

JOSEPH D. KENNEDY JR.

Anton Wenzel Lodge

Died July 8, 2023 • Age 78

JAMES D. LINER

Houston Lodge

Died July 9, 2023 • Age 85

LARRY R. MOREAU

San Marcos Lodge

Died July 10, 2023 • Age 78

CHARLENE PENNINGTON

Da Costa Lodge

Died July 10, 2023 • Age 73

ANNIE L. BLUMBERG

Marion Lodge

Died July 11, 2023 • Age 96

KENNETH W. HANSEN

Old Glory Lodge

Died July 11, 2023 • Age 91

ELMER G. ADAMEK

Da Costa Lodge

Died July 17, 2023 • Age 80

GARY L. BEYER

Pershing Lodge

Died July 20, 2023 • Age 68

LEONA WELFEL

Shiner Lodge

Died July 22, 2023 • Age 92

RODNEY M. MONTAGUE

Seguin Lodge

Died July 22, 2023 • Age 72

JOYCE E. CARPENTER

Pershing Lodge

Died July 23, 2023 • Age 74

JO ELLEN BIERMANN Comfort Lodge

Died Aug. 1, 2023 • Age 88

KATHRYN R. GASTON

Louise Schuetze Lodge

Died Aug. 2, 2023 • Age 76

JAMES E. LOWAK

Poth Lodge

Died Aug. 2, 2023 • Age 87

CLEDA L. VOGEL

Yorktown Lodge

Died Aug. 2, 2023 • Age 88

JASON E. POLOCEK

El Paso Lodge Died Aug. 2, 2023 • Age 45

ARTHUR W. FAUBION

Austin Lodge

Died Aug. 3, 2023 • Age 93

FRANCES COWLES

Laubach Lodge

Died Aug. 3, 2023 • Age 78

NICHOLAS P. BEDSON

Mission-Alamo Lodge

Died Aug. 3, 2023 • Age 42

FLOYD BENTKE

Gay Hill Lodge

Died Aug. 6, 2023 • Age 83

ROBIN R. BRONIKOWSKI

Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge

Died Aug. 17, 2023 • Age 64

MEMORIAL DONATION FORM

NORMA J. BALLARD

JOYCE E. CARPENTER

GARY L. BEYER

Donor: Pershing Lodge

VIRGINIA A. LOEWE

Donor: Burton Lodge

MELBA MARTH Donor: Roscoe Lodge

WILLIE M. NESVADBA Donor: Rosenberg-Richmond Lodge

Donations to the Home Fund in Memory of: to go to:

Donations to the Home Scholarship Fund in Memory of:

GRACE S. BORMANN Donors: New Braunfels Lodge

Donations to the Camp Fund in Memory of:

JOHN D. BLAIR

Donor: Boerne Lodge

ALVIN KNOLL Donor: Twin Sisters Lodge

Name of Deceased: Acknowledgement from Please

Retirement Home Retirement Home Scholarship Fund

Name: Address: City, State, Zip: Donor:

Address: City, State, Zip:

Cont’d from Pg. 9

60 Years

LUCILLE S. KETTLER

DOROTHY N. SCHAEPER

Waco-Robinson Lodge

JAN S. ANASTASIADES

DEBBIE D. WELLMANN Washington Lodge

CYNTHIA LYNG

CURTIS D. SEILER

PAUL H. SEILER

TANA K. SHEPPARD

Weesatche Lodge

WANDA J. CUMMINGS

CURTIS O. RUETER

Womack Lodge

DAVID A. LANDGREBE

ROYCE D. PARGMANN

PHILLIP H. SCHROEDER

Yorktown Lodge

50 Years

LAWRENCE J. BURNS JR.

DIANE E. BURNS

Anton Wenzel Lodge

CAROL M. NICCUM

Bandera County Lodge

RAY G. MENKE

Bernardo Lodge

ERIC E. TEAGUE

Biry Lodge

LISA M. LOPEZ

Brenham Lodge

RICKY D. HOFF

Cameron Lodge

MICHAEL P. BARGER

HELEN S. GALLEGOS

Castroville Lodge

MARY B. MOFFITT

DORIS A. ROSENDAHL

Comfort Lodge

JEROME J. ARNOLD

JO ANN ARNOLD

Corpus Christi Lodge

SANDRA L. MARIE

KIMBERLY A. NELSON

Cuero Family Lodge

D'ANNA M. DENKER

LAUREL S. LEE

Da Costa Lodge

MARTHA M. WALKER

Fort Worth Lodge

DARRELL S. CRENWELGE

CAROLINE KNOPP

Fredericksburg Lodge

KEITH R. KELM

RUTH L. LORENZ

Gay Hill Lodge

JILL CAMPBELL

CAROLYN A. MITSCHKE

JAMES E. MITSCHKE

ANGELINE M. PRIHODA

Giddings Lodge

CHARLES E. ZELLA

Gonzales Lodge

BETTY L. GOSWICK

BETTY J. PRENDERGAST

Gulf Lodge

JOHN D. ANDERSON

SHAWN B. CHERRY

DAVID A. DARNELL

JOSHUA D. KLEIN

Harmonia Lodge

JUDY L. BENTON

ROGER L. ROEWE

Haskell Lodge

ERIC A. PARGMANN

Hochheim-Prairie Lodge

BERNICE S. MAGEL

Jourdanton Lodge

SALLY K. O. KENDALL

LILLIAN R. MAY

Karnes City Lodge

STACY FLORES

TROY L. PREISS

ROBERT D. SCHEEL JR.

LAURA A. TIMMERMANN

Kypfer-Salge Lodge

SPENCER L. FREEMAN

JENNIFER A. LANDGREBE

La Vernia Lodge

JOETTA JUPE

NANCY K. MORAN

Louise Schuetze Lodge

LINDA K. MARWITZ

Manchaca Lodge

DARRELL L. MULLINS JR.

Mission-Alamo Lodge

JAMES R. GOEMAN III

Moulton Lodge

JARRET M. ROBISON

Needville Lodge

JEANINE D. DAILEY

Niederwald Lodge

Pioneers

DELBERT R. RICHARDSON

Paige Lodge

MARY L. BORGMAN

Paul Vogt Lodge

VICKIE L. CHUMBLEY

JEFFREY M. GRIESENBECK

DIANA J. HILBIG

MELODY L. JUREK

Pershing Lodge

CAROL J. PETRI

Prinz Solms Lodge

DORIS A. CITZLER

RONALD W. EILERS

Rutersville Lodge

PATRICIA A. PETTY

San Marcos Lodge

MICHELE BRUNNER

Schulenburg Lodge

GARY D. MEYER

AVIS W. PAGE

Schwertner Lodge

CORY S. FRIEDERICK

ELIZABETH J. GERON

JANICE K. WALKER

Seguin Lodge

EHRIG P. GEARING

Shelby Lodge

JACK C. CARRIGAN

JAMES N. WREN

Siemering Lodge

DANA R. EUDY

PATRICIA J. GARDNER

Vineta Lodge

RONALD B. COOK

Waco-Robinson Lodge

JENEAL J. JACKSON

Weesatche Lodge

WILLIAM P. GODBY

Womack Lodge

CLAYTON T. MAYFIELD

Yorktown Lodge

Alma Jo “Jodie” Vollmer/Douglass has received her 70-year membership pin. She is a member of Vineta Lodge and has been a member since Feb. 1, 1953.

Vinelda Schwartz has received her 70-year membership pin. She is a member of Deanville Lodge and has been a member since June 8, 1953. She resides in Caldwell.

John E. Knesek has received his 60year membership pin. He is a member of Deanville Lodge and has been a member since June 30, 1963.

Vicky Meier Welch has received her 60-year membership pin. She is a member of Fredericksburg Lodge and has been a member since Sept. 13, 1963.

Janet Valis Bach has received her 60year membership pin. She is a member of Vineta lodge. She shared, “It has been a blessing to be a part of Herman Sons my whole life, thanks to my parents. Dance classes early on were super fun and then the camping experience out in Comfort was always amazing. I was blessed see my own children go to camp also.” Janet has been a member since Aug. 21, 1963.

Sharon M. Tomnitz has received her 60-year membership pin. She is a member of Hondo Victory Lodge and has been a member since Sept. 26, 1963.

Camp focuses on staffing for summer 2024

By IAN BRASSETT Executive Camp Director

We’ve never been busier this early in the fall. We’re excited to be hosting the Continuing Education weekend for Hermann Sons Life agents at the end of September. Throughout the month of October, we’ll be hosting three schools from Boerne ISD schools who’ll be bringing their fifth-grade classes for their BOA program. Sprinkle that in with two other weekend rentals and that makes us busy here in Comfort!

Now that the weather is finally cooling off, we can also begin to think about the summer of 2024. The summer of 2023 has only recently concluded, but the planning and work for summer 2024 has already begun.

The focus every fall and winter is primarily staffing. It is important that we as a camp have enough staff to operate a full summer camp program. One method of staffing the camp is to grow our own staff.

At Hermann Sons Life we grow our own staff through our Counselor-in-Training (CIT) program. At Hermann Sons Life Camp, we believe it is very important for us to grow our own staff and INTERVIEWS HAVE BEGUN ALREADY for our CIT-1 program in 2024. There is nothing better than to have a camper move up through the ranks to become a counselor or even a future camp director!

Why be a Counselor-in-Training?

• Gain a behind-the-scenes experience of the camp community.

• Establish job and character references.

• Develop new skills.

• Challenge yourself regarding personal growth and expanded self-esteem through leadership opportunities.

• Gain the ability/skills needed to work with children in a camp community, after school program or any youth program.

• Earn community service hours.

• Have fun helping kids.

• Learn to work as a team.

CIT Job Description:

A CIT assists counselors. Responsibilities include helping lead games, songs, skits and telling stories. CITs help supervise campers in their group during recreation times, mealtimes, assist with camp preparation and clean-up. A CIT serves as a positive role model for young children and helps to create a supportive camp community. They participate in all necessary camp activities.

CIT Training Responsibilities and Duties

• Set a good example by being a positive role model. Campers come first!

• Assist camp counselors with daily activities, such as: crafts, sports and various indoor and outdoor group activities.

• Associate with campers NOT other CITs.

• Be punctual and attend and be an active part of all camp activities.

• Abide by all camp rules, policies and procedures.

• Treat all campers equally.

• Be cooperative with the camp director, counselors, your peers and the campers.

• Be enthusiastic and have a positive attitude.

Specific Duties

• Help to secure and set up supplies and equipment before and after activities.

• Consistently model good behavior, character, integrity and adaptability.

• Help camp staff get children to and from activities and various locations safely.

• Contribute ideas to improve the program.

• Report any unsafe actions by children or other CITs to camp staff.

• Provide children with positive behavior.

• Assist in keeping camp areas clean.

• Accept supervision and guidance.

• Must work as a team regarding the sharing of duties.

• Respect each camper for their uniqueness – within each group help create a community of people.

• Attend lectures and classes. During these sessions we will expect our CITs to participate and engage in the discussions and activities focused on leadership and counseling skills.

• Demonstrate leadership to the campers by role-modeling acceptable behaviors, e.g., language, positive attitude, exhibiting and encouraging the drinking of water and use of sunscreen, wearing appropriate attire, etc.

• Assist in the operation of camp activities. This includes game night, punch and snack time, the dance, bragging rights, counselor-free dinners and more.

• Other duties as assigned by camp staff.

As a CIT camper, and as a potential staff member, you will be peeking behind the scenes of what makes the camp tick. You will begin to see camp through the eyes of a staff member. Being a staff member

at camp is an incredibly fun summer camp job. It is, however, hard work. It is a job. The needs and wants of the campers are always paramount in our actions.

This program focuses on making sure you, as a CIT candidate, are a match to be a counselor at camp. It is just as important for you to determine if being a counselor at Hermann Sons Life is a fit for your summers. If you accept the responsibility of being a CIT and fully immerse yourself into the program, I think you’ll realize that being a counselor at camp provides for personal growth and is so much more rewarding than even being a camper!

If you are interested in joining the team at Hermann Sons Life Camp, the directions are listed below.

HOW TO BECOME A CIT-1

The FIRST STEP on the road to becoming a CIT-1 is for the APPLICANT to complete the application. The application is for past Hermann Sons Life campers ages 15 (as of Sept. 1, 2024) who wish to be considered for the first level of the CIT Program.

The application is available online at hermannsonslife.org - go to Member Benefits, go to Camp and scroll to Counselors-in-Training.

The  SECOND STEP will be an interview with the Executive Camp Director. Approximately 150 candidates are expected to interview for the limited availability. Once we have received your application, the Executive Camp Director will email you to schedule an online interview.

Be sure to request an interview time slot as soon as possible since so many interviews must be coordinated to occur in a short amount of time. For your convenience, the interviews will be scheduled predominantly via Skype, FaceTime or

Google Meet/Chat.

https://calendly.com/ianbrassett/hermann-sons-life-interview

Interviews WILL NOT be conducted after Jan. 31, 2024.

The THIRD STEP is to get three (nonfamily member) references. This can be teachers, coaches, clergy, etc.

The deadline for references is March 1, 2024. Please make sure they list you as the applicant! Letters of recommendation can also be mailed to Camp. Please do not send the same reference in multiple ways. If mailed to Camp, please send to: Hermann Sons Life Camp - CIT Program Admissions, P.O. Box 629, Comfort, TX 78013

References can be submitted online using this link:

https://www.hermannsonslife.org/ camp-staff-applicant-reference

In the FOURTH STEP successful applicants will be invited to enroll in the CIT Program in early February.

Spaces for successful CIT-1s will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

The cost of the CIT program is $225/ week. (Includes a non-refundable $20 camp store voucher).

The weeks tentatively allocated for CIT1s in 2024 are:

RIVERSIDE

Session #3: June 23 – June 29

Session #5: July 14 – July 20

Session #6: July 21 – July 27

HILLTOP

Session #4: July 7 – July 13

Session #5: July 14 – July 20

Session #6: July 21 – July 27

For questions, email Executive Camp Director Ian Brassett at ianb@hermannsonslife.org.

Medicare Advantage Plans provide one-stop shopping

Cont’d from Pg. 4

You can think of Medicare Advantage Plans as a bundled one-stop shopping choice that combines various parts of Medicare into one plan. You still must enroll in Parts A and B and pay the Part B premium to be able to choose a plan to enroll with very little premium or no premium at all in most cases.

You might be wondering, what is the advantage? The federal government requires the Medicare Advantage plans (also known as MA plans) to cover everything that Original Medicare covers. They may also include other services and benefits that Original Medicare does not cover. Most of them do exactly that – they offer dental and vision and hearing services that Medicare does not cover, just to name a few.

Most MA plans bundle in prescription medication coverage at no additional cost. Some MA plans are designed to service special medical conditions and populations. All these plans are based on networks of con-

tracted providers, health maintenance organizations (HMOs) or preferred provider organizations (PPOs). These acronyms refer to how they operate, and the rules required for you to navigate the process while receiving your care.

In HMOs, you must declare a primary care physician that will direct your care like the conductor of an orchestra; you will need a referral to see specialists. With PPOs, you are not required to have a primary care physician or referrals for the most part. PPOs also allow you to receive care from out-of-network (non–contracted providers) usually at a higher cost.

Medicare Advantage plans put a cap on your out-of-pocket cost for part A and B services covered by the plan. This offers financial protection. This year the maximum out-of-pocket amount is $8,300 for in-network services (most plans in San Antonio are below this amount) and $12,450 for in-network and out-of-network services combined. Remember, there is no limit with Original Medicare.

CAMP CAMP MERCHANDISE

Part D –

Prescription Drug coverage

Medicare did not cover outpatient medications until Jan. 1, 2006, when Congress authorized the Medicare Prescription Drug Improvement and Modernization Act signed into law by President George W. Bush on Dec. 8, 2003. Part D is the part of Medicare that covers some of your medications. Yes, only some medications because there are over the counter medications, vitamins, weight loss medications, and such that are not covered by Medicare. Part D benefits are also provided by private insurance. Each plan has a monthly premium and other out-of-pocket costs, either copays for each medication or a percentage of the prescription cost. In addition, it may also have a yearly deductible. The list of medications included in the plan is called the “formulary”, and it changes from year to year. Throughout the year your prescription cost may change depending on the coverage stage you are in. There are four coverage stages in this or-

der: deductible ($505 for 2023, if applicable), initial coverage, coverage gap often referred to as the “donut hole,” and catastrophic coverage.

This year when your total drug cost – the amount you and your Part D insurance plan have paid – reaches $4,660 you enter the so called “donut hole” or coverage gap. That means you will be responsible for 25 percent of the price of the rest of the prescription drugs you buy during the year.

If your drug costs continue to build up, you may reach the point of catastrophic coverage; for this year it is once you have paid a total of $7,400 for medications. This $7,400 is attained only with the out-of-pocket money you have paid, not including what your Part D insurance plan paid. In the catastrophic stage you will be responsible for 5 percent of the cost of each of your drugs. Fortunately, research shows that two thirds of Medicare recipients do not reach the donut hole.

It is important to know that the medications of a plan are

placed in categories called “Tiers”, according to their cost. There are five Tiers from lowest cost Tier 1 to Tier 5 the most expensive category of specialty drugs. Each plan decides what drugs to include in what category.

There are two ways to get drug coverage: by adding a standalone prescription plan to Original Medicare, or you may enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan that includes prescription drug coverage. In this article we have covered what Medicare is, who can get Medicare, the basic four parts of Medicare (A, B C and D), and the services that are covered by each part, as well as the cost of premiums and deductibles for the current year.

In the coming installments, we will explore your coverage choices, the timing of enrollment, how to make changes during the year and the differences between Medigap plans and Medicare Advantage plans. Until then, take care of yourself. Contact us at 210-527-9113 if you have any questions – we are here to help!

VISIT HERMANNSONSLIFE.ORG STORE TO ORDER.

Community Spotlight

American Red Cross delivers vital services Employee Spotlight Fifteen-year employee works in Technology Department

SAN ANTONIO – The American Red Cross Central and South Texas Region serves 83 counties, home to more than 9.4 million people. For more than 100 years, volunteers in every corner of the region have provided hope and comfort to their neighbors in crisis.

“We convene the community to prepare for, respond to and recover from emergencies large and small.”

The San Antonio Area Chapter serves Atascosa, Bexar, Comal, Dimmit, Frio, Gonzales, Guadalupe, Karnes, La Salle, Wilson, Zapata and Zavala counties. Areas of work:

Disaster services – provides shelter, meals, clothing, and emotional support.

Volunteer services – provides training to respond to disasters, supporting a blood drive, delivering messages to members of the military or connecting families displaced by conflict.

Blood services – Blood donation appointments can be made with the American Red Cross. According to the American Red Cross website, there is currently

a national blood shortage. Volunteers can apply through the website to not only donate but to host a blood drive.

Training services – The American Red Cross Central Texas Region trains around 18,000 people each year to prepare for, prevent, and respond to life-threatening emergencies through Babysitting, CPR, First Aid, Lifeguarding, and Learn to Swim programs.

Services to Armed Forces –From the first day of enlistment, service members and their families are eligible for Red Cross assistance. It helps members of the military, veterans, and their families prepare for, cope with, and respond to, the challenges of military service.

Home Fire Campaign – The American Red Cross is launching a nationwide campaign to reduce the number of home fire deaths and injuries by 25

percent over the next five years through the Home Fire Preparedness Safety Campaign.

International Services – The American Red Cross works with Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies across the globe to connect family members separated by armed conflict, internal disturbances or other situations of humanitarian need through the Restoring Family Links program.

According to the website, volunteers carry out 90 percent of the humanitarian work of the Red Cross. There are many different volunteer opportunities. Visit the website at redcross. org to volunteer, donate or to request assistance.

“The American Red Cross belongs to the American people, and our strength depends on the support we receive from you. We invite you to join us. We need your time, talent and treasure to perform our very important work.”

The San Antonio Area Chapter is located in San Antonio at 3642 E. Houston St. The phone number is 210-224-5151.

Letty Fragoso, a resident of San Antonio, has been employed at the Home Office since June 2, 2008.

Letty works in the Information Technology Department responsible for operations/ help desk.

Her duties include running policy administration system operations, maintaining and resolving issues with equipment/software used by our employees and agents (workstations, printers, phones). She also assists with facilities monitoring and phone system administration.

Letty attended the University of San Antonio and studied engineering. She furthered her education taking courses in computer technology.

A member since May 13, 2009, she serves as financial secretary for Helotes Lodge. She also serves on the Home Association Board as financial secretary.

Letty enjoys attending con-

Howie’s Happenings

Connor needs a ‘furever’ home

By ROBIN CZARNEK President and CEO

Howie and Beau had an eventful month. They were able to play non-stop with their buddies, Krypto and Tig, our granddogs. We have had the house full of pups these last few weeks and it has been an adventure. They’ve had a ball playing tug-of-war, fetch, frisbie and constant wrestling. Our furniture is never in the same spot it started in because they jump from place to place and have a blast doing so.

It’s so entertaining watching them and we enjoy seeing them living their best lives. Dave and I were thrilled to add to our pack for a while. We aways enjoy

morning greetings from Howie and Beau and adding Krypto and Tig’s greetings was awesome. Getting cuddles and kisses from them was the best way to start our day!

Howie and Beau wanted to introduce you to their new friend, Connor. He is a total sweetheart and rather than splashing around in the pool outside, he preferred to come in and play with the new puppies. Connor absolutely loves puppies and gets so excited to play. You can see Connor playing with the puppies on the HOTK9 Facebook page.

If you’re looking for a new addition to the family, he is just the

coolest boy and those ears are the best! Connor is just one of the many adorable pups of all kinds located at Heart of Texas SPCA/ HOT K9 Rescue. If you’re interested in meeting Connor or any of the pups at HOTK9 or for more information, please email: hotk9rescue@yahoo.com to schedule a time to meet them. For more information and to view all of the amazing dogs available for adoption, please check out Heart of Texas SPCA / HOTK9 Rescue on Facebook or at www.heartoftexasspca.com

Keep in mind that Heart of Texas SPCA/HOT K9 Rescue is a volunteer run organization, so email is best.

certs and traveling and is currently planning a trip to Puerto Rico. For the last 10 years, she has worked part time for U-Haul as a customer service representative.

“Hermann Sons Life is an awesome organization,” Letty said. “I enjoy the people I work with.”

Her favorite quote is, “Have you restarted your computer?”

Letty Fragoso

The Czarnek household has been full! They have been hosting their granddogs. Howie, Beau, Krypto and Tig are lined up patiently waiting on their treats.

Connor, back, loves puppies. Connor is at the Heart of Texas SPCA/HOT K9 Resuce. He would love for a family to come and take him home.

Hermann Sons Life Statewide Bowling Tournament

OFFICIAL

Final Results/Payouts

Women Singles

Men

Singles

Doubles

Doubles

Team

All Events

All Events

Bowling Tournament winners recognized

Home Office to host bingo

The Home Office will host the very first Healing Hearts Purse Bingo on Saturday, Oct. 21, at 11 a.m. at the Home Office, 515 S. St. Mary’s St. in San Antonio. The event is open to members and non-members.

Individual tickets are $50 each and include one book of bingo cards, lunch and two drinks. Lodges, businesses, members or nonmembers can sponsor a table for six for a cost of $300. It includes one book of bingo cards, lunch and

three drinks for each of the six players, a reserved table with logo of choice, six “white bingo” cards that can be used on any game, six daubers and six Hermann Sons Life koozies.

Extra bingo game books will be sold for $25 and “white bingo” cards will be sold for $5 each or 5 for $20. Daubers and drinks will be available for purchase as well.

For questions or to donate, call 210-226-9261, ext. 238.

The team San Marcos Travelers of San Marcos won first place men’s team in the Hermann Sons Life Statewide Bowling Tournament held this summer in San Antonio. The players are, from left, Monty Strohmeyer, Wayne Roach, John Gates and Terry McFarland.

The team Hermann’s Best from the Home Office in San Antonio won first place women’s team. The players are, from left, Cindy Ledwig, Elaine Soto, Leonni Avalos and Teresa Saathoff.

Keith Crenwelge of Fredericksburg won first place men’s singles.

Lisa Blank of Boerne won first place women’s singles.

Lori Sanders of Comfort won first place women’s all events.

Brent Lewis of La Grange won first place men’s all events.

Allison Turrentine, left, and Sherry Durst of Fredericksburg won first place women’s doubles.

Brothers Jared Smith, left, and Travis Smith of Dallas won first place men’s doubles.

Da Costa Lodge holds annual summer social

VICTORIA – Da Costa Lodge will host a Medicare meeting on Oct. 27 from 1:30-3 p.m. at the Hall with speakers Agent Jason Hybner and Medicare Sales Manager Curtis Dishman from the Home Office. The meeting is open to everyone, members and nonmembers. RSVP to Barbara Hybner at 361-550-2509 by Oct. 24.

The annual summer social was held Aug. 26. The silent auction raised $1,114 for the Da Costa Lodge Scholarship Fund. In the canned food drive, 95 pounds of food was collected for the Victoria Christian Assistance Ministry. A total of 180 items were collected in the school supply drive and were donated to the Bloomington ISD.

The lodge thanks everyonewho helped make the event a success.

Vice President of Member Benefits Cecily Kelly from the Home Office was in attendance and presented membership pins.

Lawrence and Terry Waida were presented 50-year membership pins and Nelson Janssen received a 70-year membership pin. Linda Denker accepted a 50-year pin on behalf of her daughter D’Anna Denker who was unable to attend.

The family of the Late Elmer Gene Ademek accepted his 70year pin. Family members included his wife Sandra Adamek, daughter Traci Shadle and son Brian Ademak. Elmer was looking forward to coming to the social but sadly passed away a couple of weeks prior to the event.

Lillie Mae Hosek was unable to attend the social but wrote a kind letter to the lodge on receiving her 75-year membership pin. She said she was proud of the lodge for continuing on.

Scholarship recipient Carsynn Shilinga was in attendance and thanked the members for awarding her one of two lodge scholarships. Recipient Madelyn Nunez was unable to attend the social but sent a thank-you letter.

Members and guests enjoyed a meal of roast, green beans, potatoes, salad and dessert.

Door prizes of gift cards were given out and then a public dance was held featuring Texas 361. The lodge welcomes new junior members, Wren Chilek, Evange-

line Chilek, Reese Chilek, Carter Chilek, Madilynn Lemmons, Elizabeth Gutterson and Reagan Larew.

The Hermann Sons Life Da Costa Lodge cookbooks are still available for purchase. Contact an officer or visit the Hall to purchase. They can be shipped for a small fee.

Upcoming public events include a public dance with Texas 361 on Oct. 2. Doors open at 7 p.m. and the cost is $10 per person, $5 for Da Costa Lodge members. The Heathenz Entertainment will feature an Endless Nightmares Wrestling Event with a casket match on Sunday, Oct. 22. Doors open at 3 p.m. and thedcost is $10 per

person.

A public dance with Red Ravens will be held Nov. 18. Doors open at 7 p.m. and cost is $10 per person, $5 for members. Veterans are admitted free.

A public dance with Triple Threat is planned for Dec. 9. Stay tuned for more details. Heathenz Entertainment will hold a wrestling event on Dec. 10. Bring a new, unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots for free entry.

The New Year’s Eve dance is Dec. 31 with Tainted Heart on stage from 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. The cost is $15 per person. Call the hall at 361578-2039 to reserve tables.

Da Costa Lodge member Nelson Janssen received his 70-year membership pin from Vice President of Member Benefits Cecily Kelly at the August summer social.

The family of the late Elmer Gene Adamek accepted his 70-year membership pin at the Da Costa Lodge summer social. Pictured are, from left, his son Brian Adamek, daughter Traci Shadle, wife Sandra Adamek, Vice President of Member Benefits Cecily Kelly and President Sayra Boop.

Da Costa Lodge members, from left, Lawrence and Terry Waida accepted their 50-year membership pins from Vice President of Member Benefits Cecily Kelly at the summer social.

Vice President of Member Benefits Cecily Kelly, left, presents a 50year membership pin to Linda Denker on behalf of Linda’s daughter D’Anna Denker at the Da Costa Lodge summer social. Da Costa Lodge scholarship recipient Carsynn Shilinga, left, is pictured with President Sayra Boop during the lodge’s summer social held in August.

Round Top Lodge plans Christmas party for Dec. 10

ROUND TOP – Round Top Lodge welcomed new member Julia Holland at the August meeting held at the American Legion Hall.

With antique shows starting Oct. 12-28 at the hall, the lodge may not meet in October. President Linda Mattocks will provide an update. The Christmas party is set for Dec. 10 starting at 11 a.m. The meeting will be held around noon followed by the meal and party games.

For Make a Difference Day, the lodge will hold a country store at the Ledbetter Volunteer Fire Department’s event on Oct. 7. Set up is at 3 p.m., bingo starts

at 4 p.m., the fried chicken dinner at 5 p.m. and the auction at 6:30 p.m.

Members voted to donate to other needy organizations or groups instead of yearly contributions to the same organizations. The lodge will continue to support CASA starting in October with collections of items to be delivered in December.

Other suggestions were RTC Parents Club to help needy students with clothing, supplies, etc. and the CPS Department/ Health Department who will supply the lodge with the name, age, size and needs for a particular person. Monetary contribu-

tions would also be welcomed. President and Agent Linda Mattocks reminded members she’s available to answer policy questions and believes in visiting face to face with potential members.

Happy Birthday was sung to August celebrant Jo Ann Ullrich. Celebrating anniversaries were Ray and Jo Ann Ullrich, 50 years in June, Floyd and Jocie Braun, 25 years and Lila and Bart Garlin, 57 years.

Attendance prize winners were Linda, Lila Garlin, Earl Fenske, Bob and Betty Poter. Members enjoyed lunch and fellowship.

Round Top Lodge recognized anniversary celebrants, from left, Ray and Jo Ann Ullrich, 50 years; and Jocie and Floyd Braun, 25 years, at the August meeting.

Giddings donates to school event

GIDDINGS – Giddings Lodge will meet Oct. 12 at the Silos of 77 at 7 p.m. All are welcomed to attend.

The lodge donated $300 to the First Assembly of God Church’s annual back-to-school event. This year the church provided supplies to 675 children including 55 haircuts, 540 hot dogs, 500 bottles of water, 150 cupcakes and 140 faces were painted. Also, 13 families received prayers. There were 88 volunteers assisting at the event.

Gay Hill Lodge will meet Nov. 7

Gay Hill Lodge donated to the Washington County Fair Champion Drive, a livestock show for special needs children. Presenting the check is lodge member Bradley Fischer to Champion Drive representative Paige Jaster. The lodge will meet Nov. 7 at the Burton Short Stop at 6 p.m.

At Luigi’s Restaurant

Giddings Lodge donated $300 to the First Assembly of God Church’s annual back-to-school event. Pictured accepting the check is Pastor Diane Herlitz.

McGregor Lodge will meet on Oct. 3

MCGREGOR – McGregor Lodge will meet at 5 p.m. on Oct. 3 at Luigi’s Restaurant.

At the September meeting held at Olive Garden, President Doris Mooney shared thank you cards received from teachers who had received a monetary gift from the lodge to help with supplies. Members appreciate their hard work and dedication to the students.

Congratulations to 60-year membership pin recipient Linda Mae Wilson, a member since Sept. 1, 1963, and to Marvin Schwettmann, 70-year membership pin recipient, a member since Sept. 20, 1953.

The Humanitarian of the Year Award for 2023 was voted on and the recipient will be announced later.

The lodge recognized birthday

celebrant Teresa Sneed who was in attendance and expressed happy birthday wishes to her aunt, Vivian Lange who had a birthday on the meeting date. Vivian is unable to attend meetings and is missed. The door-prize winners were Regenia Arseneaux, Teresa Sneed and John Sneed.

–Doris Mooney

20, 1953.

At the September meeting, a thank-you card was read from the Lee County Youth Center for the lunch the lodge provided. Each member in attendance received $5 for gas expenses in lieu of a drawing.

– Pat Abell

Helotes meets Dec. 12

HELOTES – Helotes Lodge will hold its last meeting for the year on Dec. 12 at 7 p.m. at Braun Hall. A hot meal will be provided and those in attendance will have a chance to win cash door prizes.

– Reporter Richland cancels meeting

PFLUGERVILLE – Richland Lodge will not hold a meeting in October.

For questions, contact President Tammy Kelley at 512-7405022 or any lodge officer.

– Reporter

Marvin Schwettmann of McGregor Lodge has received his 70-year membership pin. He has been a member since Sept.

La Vernia Lodge holds membership pin presentation

LA VERNIA – La Vernia Lodge met Sunday, Aug. 20, for its monthly meeting and presentation of membership pins. The meeting began with a meet and greet, and members enjoyed a meal of chicken and beef fajitas with all the trimmings. Special guest was President and CEO Robin Czarnek and her husband Dave. Robin presented membership pins and shared news from the Home Office.

Marlin Tanneberger, agent and financial trustee, received a 75-year pin. Annie Coldewey received a 70-year pin; Charles Stork, president, received a 60year pin and a 50-year pin was presented to W.J. “Jeanie” Walpole, lodge secretary. Michael C. Jonas received a 60-year pin but was unable to attend the meeting.

The lodge thanked all who participated in the meeting and the officers who keep the lodge working.

Any Hermann Sons Life member is welcome to attend meetings held at the lodge located at 122 Bluebonnet (F.M. 775) in La Vernia.

For information or questions, contact Jeanie Walpole at 830253-1534 or by email,  jwalpole49@hotmail.com

Jeanie Walpole

La Vernia Lodge member Annie M. Coldewey, right, received her 70year membership pin at the August meeting from President and CEO Robin Czarnek and President Charles H. Stork.

La Vernia Lodge President Charles H. Stork received his 60-year membership pin at the August meeting from President and CEO Robin Czarnek.

La Vernia Lodge pin recipient Annie M. Coldewey, center, is pictured with her son Calvin and Sabrina who were in attendance for her 70year pin presentation in August.

La Vernia Lodge Financial Trustee and Agent Marlin Tanneberger, center, received his 75-year membership pin at the August meeting from President and CEO Robin Czarnek and President Charles H. Stork.

La Vernia Lodge member Michael C. Jonas has received his 60-year membership pin but was unable to attend the August meeting.

Celebrating 32 years of marriage in June were Candy and Charles Stork.

La Vernia Lodge member Jeanie Walpole, center, received a 50-year membership pin at the August meeting from President and CEO Robin Czarnek and President Charles H. Stork.

Womack Lodge pioneers receive membership pins

CLIFTON – Womack Lodge pioneers received membership pins at the September meeting. Vice President of Operations and COO Samantha Schulmeier Kelley and her husband Jonathan were in attendance.

Samantha brought greetings and well wishes from the Home Office in San Antonio and let everyone know there were 17 members of the lodge who had received membership pins in 2023. Two were in attendance and recognized.

The first was Calvin Rueter and Samantha said it was a true honor to be able to present Calvin with his 70-year membership pin. When Samantha started working at the Home Office 17 years ago, Calvin was the Chairman of the Grand Finance Committee. She detailed that when he retired from the position in 2009, he had served 24 years on the committee, 12 of them as the chairman. Calvin spoke fondly of his 70 years of membership and the past positions he has held with the organization.

The second pin recipient in attendance was 60-year member Helen Zuehlke Morris. Helen spoke about her years of membership reminiscing about the many parties and events her family and the community has had at the Womack Lodge Hall, including her wedding reception many years ago where even a local duck attended!

Niederwald

Lodge will meet Oct. 3

Prize winners at the Niederwald Lodge

September meeting were Shirley Faske and Harry Schriber. A moment of silence was observed for 911, POWs and MIAs. The next meeting will be held Oct. 3 at 11 a.m. at the Senior Activity Center.

When traveling around Texas to various lodges, Samantha and Jonathan said they see lots of fun and interesting things. This trip they were intrigued by all the funny wooden trolls found in front of just about every business in nearby Clifton. When they asked why they were there, they were surprised to find that the mastermind behind them was none other than Helen with her daughter, talented local artist and 33-year member, Megan Morris Major. Megan was commissioned to create and paint the 50 trolls featured all over town.

Helen described it as a nod to the fact that in 1997 Clifton, Texas had been designated the Norwegian Capital of Texas by the state legislature and trolls are a big part of Norwegian

folklore, even though everyone at the meeting agreed Clifton has more German influence than Norwegian left these days.

Agent Sterling Goolsby reported he is eager to discuss life insurance and annuities with anyone looking to provide financial protection for their families.

Mary Sue Crawson won the split-the-pot prize. Samantha won the attendance prize and even got to enjoy everyone singing “Happy Birthday” to her and Beverly Rueter.

Samantha and Jonathan enjoyed their visit with the members of Womack so much that Samantha decided to write and submit this month’s article for them in memory of their late reporter, Nadine Rueter.

– Samantha Schulmeier Kelley

At meeting Oct. 1

President of Operations and COO Samantha Schulmeier Kelley is pictured with one of many trolls featured in Clifton, designated as the Norwegian Capital of Texas. The project featuring trolls at almost every area business was the mastermind of Womack Lodge member Helen Zuehlke Morris and were created by her daughter, local artist and member, Megan Morris Major.

Twin Sisters will celebrate Oktoberfest

TWIN SISTERS – Twin Sisters Lodge will meet Oct. 1 with an Oktoberfest meal to include sausage provided by the Knolls; sauerkraut, Steve Hartmann; bread, Herman and Nancy Weber; potato salad, the Ethridges; and desserts, Karen Steiger and Marilyn Weidman.

At the August meeting, it was announced the lodge has three new members. They are Blake Leigh and Henley Alena Weber, daughters of Marshal and Jessica Weber and George Joe Carrasco.

The trustees discussed several repair projects as well as a water collection system. Liability insurance was also discussed.

Correspondence from the Home Office invited everyone to a Healing Hearts Purse Bingo on Saturday, Oct. 21, at the Home Office to benefit the Grief Support Camp.

Birthday celebrants in August were Herman Weber and Helen Knoll and in September, Kaden Morash and Marilyn Weidman.

Stan and Karen Steiger celebrated their 46th wedding an-

niversary on Sept. 17.

Kaden and Ethan Morash and Myron Ethridge helped with the door-prize drawings. Winners were Kaden and Marcus Ethridge who donated his winnings to the Building Fund.

The Knolls announced a Celebration of Life for Alvin and Jerome Knoll has been planned for Saturday, March 30, 2024, the day before Easter, at the Twin Sisters Dance Hall. Members enjoyed a meal of cold cuts and trimmings.

Reporter

President of Operations and COO Samantha Schulmeier Kelley, center, attended the September meeting of Womack Lodge and presented membership pins to Helen Zuehlke Morris, 60 years, and to Calvin Rueter, 70 years.

San Marcos members to visit Buggy Barn Museum

SAN MARCOS – San Marcos Lodge members will meet Monday, Oct. 2, at 9 a.m. at the Lutheran Church parking lot on Holland Street in San Marcos. Members are carpooling to the Buggy Barn Museum in Blanco. The admittance fee is $10 per person. RSVP to Secretary Janice Kuhen. E-mail or text 512393-1431.

The lodge welcomes new members Bernadette Friesenhahn, John Dressing, Jr. and Hardy Dean.

The lodge will celebrate Christmas and the lodge’s 130th anniversary at Zorn Bowling Lanes on Sunday, Dec. 10, at 2 p.m. A turkey meal with all the trimmings from Bill Miller’s will be served. Reservations for the party must be made no later than Nov. 30. The cost for adult members is $5 and for junior members, age nine and under, $3. The non-member

cost is $12. The lodge’s 130th anniversary is in January.

At the September meeting, Happy Birthday wishes were sung to Janet Boehringer and Betty Schawe. Happy anniversary wishes were extended to Betty and John Schawe, 60 years, and Florence and Marshall McQuaig, 53 years.

The Cheer Committee reported sending sympathy cards to the families of Larry Moreau and Kay Tilton. A moment of silence was observed in their memory.

Janice announced she delivered 132 pounds of nonperishable food to the Hays County Food Bank. These were items collected during the lodge’s family picnic held in July.

Two letters of correspondence were read from the Home Office, one in reference to the Retirement Home and

the other announcing the Healing Hearts Purse Bingo at the Home Office on Oct. 21 at 11 a.m. It will benefit the Grief Support Camp in Comfort. Members voted to donate to the Hays County Women’s Shelter for the lodge’s Make a Dif-

ference Day project.

A committee including volunteers Lillian Cargil, Janet Magin, Mary Jane Smith and chaired by Vice President Shirley Faske, will meet in mid-October. The committee will prepare the 2024 calendar and slate of 2024 of-

ficers. Anyone wishing to serve as an officer next year or would like to host a meeting should contact Shirley.

Attendance-award winners were Agnes Dreibrodt and John Schawe.

Cibolo to hold Halloween costume contest Oct. 5

CIBOLO – Cibolo Lodge will meet on Thursday, Oct. 5. In celebration of Halloween, a costume contest will be held for adults and juniors, so come dressed in your best costumes. Winners will receive gift cards. Pizza will be served.

Ticket sales for the queen-sized quilt raffle are going well. TheMatching Funds proceeds will benefit the Randolph Opportunity Association for the Disabled (ROAD). This organization, led by Anita Clark, provides activities for disabled people over 16 years old who have aged out of the system. The drawing will be held at the regular meeting on Nov. 2.

Vice President Sherry Rakowitz began the September meeting with a memorial service honoring deceased members Ida Mae Connor, Thomas R. Hild, and William J Connor.

The lodge welcomes transfer members Ernst R. Kropp and Evelyn K. Kropp.

A Medicare presentation is planned for an upcoming meeting. Anyone interested is wel-

come to attend. There will be two or three agents available to answer questions. The regular meeting email reminder will note when the Medicare update will be held, so those who haven’t sent in an email to be notified of meetings, do so soon at tracycampos78108@gmail.com or tracyc@hermannsonslife.org

A thank-you note was received from the New Braunfels Parks Foundation for the lodge’s $25 donation to the Field of Graves Memorial.

The lodge has purchased a projector to be used for memorial services.

Celebrating birthdays in September were Rodney Krebs and Cory Rakowitz, and Dena and Mike Warneke celebrated an anniversary.

The adult attendance-prize winners were Tracy Campos and Evelyn Kropp.

Bonnie Wyrwich’s cauliflower in cheese sauce dish was voted best side dish and the best dessert was a coconut cream pie made by Sherry Rakowitz.

Houston will meet at Don Jose’s Oct. 9

HOUSTON – Houston Lodge will meet Oct. 9 at Don Jose’s Mexican Restaurant. At the August meeting, Agent Gary Falkenberg advised members to have important papers and information, such as life insurance policies, annuities and beneficiaries in order and to let

someone know where such information is located.

Ethelene Marshall moved for the lodge to donate to the Houston Coalition for Life. After some discussion, it was tabled for the next meeting so more information can be gathered.

Winners in the monthly attendance drawing were Jack Manchack, Karen Jochimsen,  Catherine Manchack, Kiera Thomason and James Ellison. Contact Catherine Manchack at 832-443-0469 with any lodge questions. – Catherine Manchack

San Marcos Lodge recognized anniversary celebrants Betty and John Schawe in September.

San Marcos Lodge September birthday celebrants were Janet Boehringer and Betty Schawe.

Cibolo Lodge recognized anniversary celebrants Mike and Dena Warneke at the September meeting.

Cibolo Lodge recognized birthday celebrants Rodney Kreb and Cory Rakowitz at the September meeting.

Deanville will meet on Oct. 29

DEANVILLE – Deanville Lodge will meet Sunday, Oct. 29, at 2 p.m. The lodge has two 50-year members, ten 60-year members and six 70-year members that will be honored. The pin recipients are encouraged to attend. Cake and refreshments will be served.

The lodge will also participate in the annual St. John’s Lutheran Church’s annual Trunk or Treat on that Sunday.

At the August meeting, a mo-

ment of silence was observed for James Fritsche and Viola Bartek. Both were active lodge members and will be greatly missed.

James passed away on Aug. 3. James was a lodge member since 1951 and was serving as a lodge trustee, a position he held for decades.

Viola passed away on Aug. 17. She was a member since 1953 and served as president and treasurer and in many other chair positions. She served as secretary-

Plum plans Christmas party

WEST POINT – Plum Lodge members are asked to save the date for the Christmas social on Dec. 9 at Prairie Valley School House.

For the August meeting, members gathered at Las Fuentes Mexican restaurant.

The lodge recognized Jackie

and Bob Wessels who celebrated their 52nd anniversary in June, July birthday celebrant Pam Matula and August birthday celebrant Gloria Raschke.

The next meeting was scheduled for Sept. 18.

– Pam Matula

treasurer for 17 years and served on the Finance Committee.  A moment of silence was also observed for Carolyn Wiederhold who was a member since 1966.

Condolences are extended to the families of James, Viola and Carolyn.

Happy Birthday was sung to Janet Phillips and Beverly Blinka. Congratulations to Janet for reaching a milestone birthday this year.

– Reporter

Deanville Lodge mourns the loss of two active lodge members, James Fritsche and Viola Bartek. James served as lodge trustee for many years and Viola served as secretary-treasurer for 17 years. Both held other lodge positions as well over the years.

Bellville adds bingo to next meeting

BELLVILLE – Bellville Lodge will meet Oct. 23 at First National Bank Civic Center.

Scott Schumann was elected to fill the vacant position of vice president at the July meeting held at the First National Bank Civic Center Room.

A discussion was held on ways to increase membership and meeting attendance. Some suggestions were to call members and encourage

them to attend, assemble an email list, drawings for prizes and bingo. It was decided to play bingo at the next meeting. Kelly and Scott Schumann will be in charge. Make a Difference Day is Oct. 28. The lodge will donate $100 to the Bellville Food Pantry. Members are encouraged to bring canned goods for the pantry, and they will receive an additional bingo card for each canned good they do-

nate.

Celebrating birthdays since the last meeting were Kelly Schumann, Ethan Schumann and Laura Schumann. Celebrating anniversaries were Curtis and Peggy Koehn, Tommy and Becky Kolwes, Scott and Kelly Schumann and Brian and Kristi Schumann.

All in attendance enjoyed different flavors of Blue Bell ice cream.

– Laura Schumann

New Braunfels plans sausage supper

Corpus Christi plans potluck social for Oct. 3

Corpus Christi Lodge members celebrating birthdays in August and September included, from left, Scott Mazur, Pearl Hunt, Debra Mazur, Rick Roberson, Robert Gonzalez, Cheryl Garcia and Ray Garcia. The 50/50 winner was David Garcia. The lodge will hold a potluck social Oct. 3 at Hilltop Community Center at 6 p.m.

NEW BRAUNFELS – New Braunfels will meet Oct. 1. Michael and Shirley Huebinger will host a sausage supper and members are asked to bring sides and desserts.

Flags decorated the tables at the September meeting. President Violet Tanneberger opened with pledges to both flags. She read a memorial and tribute to all who died on 9-11 and for the

heroic men and women who worked tirelessly to save many.

A resolution of respect was read for Grace Borman.

President and CEO Robin Czarnek spoke of Hermann Sons Life’s belt tightening and cost cutting being done to counteract rising prices.

An area lodge-combined picnic is planned for spring.

Attendance-prize winners

were Sandra Duncan, Dennis Schwab, Phillip and Janice Neff, Leola Stolte, Hannelore Brotze, Michael and Shirley Huebinger, Karen Harborth, Dorothy Schneider, Jolene Meuret and Sharon Suchy.

Dave and Robin Czarnek hosted a turkey and ham supper served after games and refreshments.

– Rennie Guenther

Boerne Lodge to host Medicare speaker

BOERNE – Boerne Lodge will meet on Friday, Oct. 6, at The Center at Kronkosky Place. Regional Sales Manager Curtis Dishman is scheduled to speak about Medicare coverage.

Corpus Christi Lodge door-prize winners in September were, from left, Pearl Hunt, Cheryl Garcia and Amanda Bainbridge (not pictured).

Corpus Christi Lodge recognized anniversary celebrants Robert and Troylyn Gonzalez, 15 years, at the September meeting held at Millers BBQ.

Marilyn Vogt read correspondence from the Home Office.

The first “Healing Hearts Purse Bingo” will be held on Oct. 21, 2023, at the Home Office. Participants can play bingo for a

chance to win a designer purse while helping raise funds for the Hermann Sons Life Grief Support Camp.

The lodge discussed nominees for the Humanitarian of the Year and chose Jack Hill. The award will be presented to Jack at the Christmas party on Dec. 1.

Members were asked to think of project ideas for Make a Dif-

ference Day on Oct. 28. Make a Difference Day is a volunteer service day that benefits the Boerne community.

September birthday celebrants were Kathy Kunz and Marilyn Vogt. They both received a free meal ticket to The Center.

Donald D’Spain won the attendance prize. – Reporter

Prinz Solms Lodge plans elections, holiday party

BULVERDE – Prinz Solms Lodge will meet at 5 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 8, at the Bulverde Community Center.

Officer elections will be held in November. The joint Christmas party with Spring Branch will be held Dec. 10 at the Bulverde Community Center.

At the September meeting, Lou Garza with S.T.A.G.E. gave a presentation on the status of the local theater group and upcoming performances in 2024. He explained how plays are chosen and the auditions for characters in the play. The theater was founded by the Jahnsen

family and has a youth theater program and quarterly play presentations.

Community Coordinator Jackie Oldfield announced the next STAGE presentations are “You Can’t Take It with You” and “InLaws, Out-Laws and Others That Need to Be Shot.”

President Cliff Klabunde reminded members that dance registration is underway through Oct. 1 and classes will start soon.

The members enjoyed bingo games and the opportunity to visit with friends.

– Reporter

Poth Lodge welcomes new members

POTH – Poth Lodge welcomed new and transfer members at the September meeting. New members are Rowyn Ivy Albert, Kannya Alexander Albert, Laikyn Kai Albert and Sarita R. Nuerberg.  Transfer members are Mary Jane Hons, Douglas John Bielefeld, Voncille M. Bielefeld, Patricia Bielefeld and Hardy P. Klepac.

A moment of silence was observed for deceased member James Lowak. He served as vice president of the lodge.

Burton Lodge birthday celebrants recognized at the September meeting were, from left, Earl Fenske, Jean Dueitt, Don Kessler and Sue Schwartz

Burton Lodge will honor pin recipients on Nov. 2

BURTON – Burton Lodge recipients of 50-, 60- and 70- year membership pins will be honored at J.W.’s Steakhouse on Nov. 2 at 6 p.m. They will be notified by mail and their meal will be provided by the lodge. The Humanitarian of the Year will also be announced at this event.

At the meeting on Sept. 7, the officer election was held and plans were made for the member appreciation celebration. The present officers were reelected by acclamation. Officers are President Dale Schwartz,

Vice-President Roy Dueitt, Secretary Sue Schwartz and Treasurer

E. J. Muehlbrad. Don Kessler and Nina Dallmeyer are financial officers and Suzanne Kessler is communications reporter.

Celebrating birthdays were Earl Fenske, Jean Duett, Don Kessler and Sue Schwartz. Doorprize winners were Denise Brode, Carol Naegeli and Linda Mattocks.

The lodge meets the first Thursday of odd months at the Burton Community Center at 6:30 p.m.

Reporter

The Home Office thanked the lodge for the memorial gifts to the Retirement Home in honor

of Anthony Rotter, Karen L Robinson, Lorraine D. Maha, Verna M. Lyon and David Haverlah. Other correspondence from the lodge included a “save the date” for the Healing Hearts Purse Bingo in San Antonio on Oct. 21.  Lodge scholarship applications will be available in November to high school seniors graduating in May 2024. Remember, a member of the family, parent and/or grandparent need to attend six meetings prior to May. Applications must be submitted in March 2024.

Kathy Oehlk and husband

Gaylon celebrated their 53rd anniversary.

President Pamela Cutsinger reported as of the meeting date, a dance class teacher had not been hired.

Door-prize winners were Chris Kotara and Patricia Lowak. Names drawn for the kitty-prize were Lorraine F. Wiatrek, Rebecca Ann Mattes and Randy D. Schultz, but they were not in attendance, so the prize increases for next time. Members enjoyed Frito chili Pie, Mississippi Mud Cake and bingo.

Kypfer-Salge Lodge will meet on Oct. 6

CLEAR SPRINGS – Kypfer-Salge Lodge will meet on Friday, Oct.

6. The Lodge will provide sausage and members are asked to bring a dessert and/or side dish.

New Junior members, Layne Aaron Hall and Sloan Elizabeth Broughton were introduced at the September meeting.

Member Molly Koepp was on the sick list and is now doing well. Get-well wishes also go out to Trustee Charlie Seiter.

Kery Noble and Dennis Koepp built new concrete steps outside the back door of the hall. Everyone will now be safe using the door for many years to come.

Hall rentals are going very well. For rental information call 830-624-9891 or visit the lodge’s Facebook page.

Celebrating birthdays in September were Darline Preiss and

Oran Koepp.

Attendance-prize winners were Josh Carpio, Melia Carpio, Nelrose Koepp, Oran Koepp and Dorothy Schneider.

Reporter

Kypfer-Salge Lodge recognized birthday celebrants Oran Koepp and Darline Preiss at the September meeting.

Prinz Solms Lodge anniversary celebrants Dorothy and Will Laubach were recognized in September.

Prinz Solms Lodge recognized birthday celebrant Kathy Creel in September.

Brenham Lodge plans next meeting for Oct. 13

BRENHAM – Brenham Lodge will meet Friday, Oct. 13. Doors open at 5 p.m. The meal is at 7 p.m. and the meeting follows at 8 p.m. Pulled pork sandwiches will be served. Members are asked to provide desserts.

At the September meeting, the lodge welcomed new members by transfer, Heather, Joshua and Robert Ruenke.

Agent Gary Falkenberg reminded members about the importance of Hermann Sons Life membership and products like whole and term life insurance and fixed annuities that are currently earning 4 percent. He also mentioned the importance of working with a life insurance agent instead of purchasing life insurance with no knowledge of the products.

Attendance-prize winners were James Hyvl and Lena Mae Goessler.

Members enjoyed a meal of fried chicken, potato salad and beans prepared by the 006 team.

September birthday celebrants at Brenham Lodge were, from left, Judy Rudloff, Willie Brown and Doris Falkenberg.

Celebrating August birthdays at Brenham Lodge were, from left, Pamela Ruenke and Richard Hanath.

Brenham Lodge recognized August anniversary celebrants Delores and Ben Meyer, 63 years.

Brenham Lodge September anniversary celebrants were, from left, William (Red) and Ora Nell Kuretsch, 66 years and Doris and Gary Falkenberg, 60 years.

Mission-Alamo holds picnic at Hilltop Camp

SAN ANTONIO – Mission-Alamo Lodge will meet Oct. 15. Meetings will not be held in November and December due to the holidays. The next lodge meeting is Jan. 21, 2024.

In August, a family picnic was held at the Hermann Sons Hilltop Camp. The lodge extends its appreciation to Executive Camp Director Ian Brassett for the wonderful meal and for spending time with the members making the picnic a successful event.

Thank you to the lifeguards, Heydon Kelly, Matsen Marbach, Kaitlyn Kostelink and Kaydence Scott. Without them there would have been no pool fun.

Thank you also to the campers who shared their camp stories. They were Emma Gottschalk, Jack Gottschalk, Nicoli Gottschalk, Alethalena Luers and Avery Martinez.

A motion was made to change meetings from the fourth Sunday to the third Sunday of the month. It will be presented at the next two meetings before final approval.

Members celebrating birthdays were J.R. Kneupper, Adeline Denton, Joyce Kneupper, Debbie Pike and Jack Gottschalk. Anniversary celebrants were George and Shelley Luers.

The name drawn for the attendance award was Calvin N. Sylvester who was absent, so the money goes toward the next drawing.

Many attendance prizes were awarded to juniors and adults including pool noodles, floats, balls, goggles, plants, bags, hats and sunglasses.

The lodge thanks everyone who was able to attend the picnic and enjoy the fun.

Mission-Alamo Lodge President Diane Cline presents a thank-you gift to Executive Camp Director Ian Brassett for hosting the lodge’s family picnic in August.

Mission-Alamo Lodge campers shared their camp stories at the family picnic in August. The juniors are Emma Gottschalk, Jack Gottschalk, Nicoli Gottschalk, Alethalena Luers and Avery Martinez.

Lifeguards on duty at the Mission-Alamo Lodge’s family picnic were Heydon Kelly, Matsen Marbach, Kaitlyn Kostlink and Kaydence Scott .

Mission-Alamo Lodge recognized birthday celebrants at the August picnic. They were J.R. Kneupper, Adeline Denton, Joyce Kneupper, Debbie Pike and Jack Gottschalk.

Seguin will hold Halloween meeting on Oct. 18

SEGUIN – Seguin Lodge will hold the Halloween meeting on Oct. 18. Members are also invited to the election meeting on Nov. 15 and the Christmas party on Dec. 10.

The Summer Fest was held Aug. 13. Members and guests celebrated the end of summer by enjoying food, fellowship and indoor fun.

The lodge welcomed approximately 115 members and guests from San Marcos, Stern, Laubach, and Kypfer-Salge lodges at the summer event.

A barbecue brisket lunch was served with plenty of side dishes and desserts.

Everyone enjoyed bingo and candy-guessing games for both the adults and children. Door prizes were awarded as well as the split-the-pot winnings.

Reporter

Jill, Pierce and Jay Law wait in line for a barbecue meal at

Schulenburg Lodge donates flagpole, flag to new EMS building

Schulenburg Lodge dedicated a flagpole and flag to the new EMS building in Schulenburg in observance of Flag Day on June 14. Pictured, from left, are members, Curtis Baca, Ed Moeller, Junette Rodecap, Bill Michalke, Mary K. Seifert, Shirley Machicek, Delores Michalke, Linda Wagner and Frank Bohlmann along with EMS Assistant Director Gary Daniels, Commissioner Drew Brossman, EMS Captain Timothy Watkins, Dawn Moore, Cassie Austin, Judge Dan Mueller and EMS Director Josh Vandever.

Laubach Lodge pioneers receive pins

Barbecue pit masters Brian Beutnagel, left, and President Tim Kolbe prepared the brisket for the Seguin Lodge Summer Fest held in August.

Seguin Lodge officers Brian Beutnagel, left, and Howard Huebner served barbecue brisket and sausage at the Summer Fest held in August.

Guests at the Seguin Lodge Summer Fest in August included these members from Laubach Lodge.

Seguin Lodge Treasurer Annette Roecker, back left, and President Tim Kolbe, right, enjoyed visiting with members from San Marcos Lodge at the Summer Fest held in August.

the Seguin Lodge Summer Fest.

Vice President of Member Benefits Cecily Kelly, far right, presented membership pins at the September meeting of Laubach Lodge held at Dixie Grille/Rocket Wings in Seguin. Pictured are, from left, Secretary Deanne Engelke, recipient Randall Herzog, 60 years, President June Herzog and recipient Gerald Ewald, 70 years.

Columbia continues its giving pride

DALLAS – Columbia Lodge’s monthly volunteer gig on Aug. 19 (the fourth consecutive month) with The Resource Center was a hit with members setting up for an Under The Seathemed bingo in Dallas’s Oak Lawn/Cedar Springs community. Another “de-nailing party” is planned to save the ballroom’s previous flooring.

Pershing Lodge to serve sausage meal Oct. 4

Celebrating September birthdays at Pershing Lodge were, from left, Gerald Peeler, Carol Krauss and Dora Villa. They each received a gift. Members who recently passed away were Norma Jean Ballard, 89; Gary L. Beyer, 67; and Joyce E. Carpenter, 74. Gerald Peeler won the $35 attendance prize and Beth Warne won the split-the-pot drawing. The lodge will meet Oct. 4 at 7 p.m. The meal will be sausage and sauerkraut plus sides prepared by James Lay and crew. RSVP to 210-227-3085 so enough food will be prepared. Members are asked to bring desserts.

Louise Schuetze to meet Oct. 9

SAN ANTONIO – Louise Schuetze Lodge will meet on Oct. 9.

Members met at La Fogata Mexican Restaurant for the special 127th anniversary meeting. Members and guests enjoyed the dinner and friendship. Door prizes of miniature roses were awarded and for dessert there were special cookies for

Fredericksburg Lodge recognizes pioneers at annual barbecue

Vice President of Sales Teresa Saathoff, left, presents a 60-year membership pin to Lynette Koennecke at the Fredericksburg Lodge annual barbecue held in September. Robert Beckmann was the cook.

everyone.

Members were asked to think of a project for Make a Difference Day in October and to also think of nominees for the 2024 election of officers.

Members are looking forward to the return of Carol Grill and hearing about her summer adventures.

Reporter

Many dancers of various styles still carry on and enjoy the new floor. Panoptikon continues to be a well-attended event on Fridays at the Hall. Thanks to the wellloved previous bartender, Austin, for bringing this event to the hall.

Chris Naughton, agent and Siemering Lodge member gifted the lodge with a Victorian era, beautifully filigreed, etched and dated metal pitcher. It was donated to him in San Antonio from a family collection and inscribed with “An Honorary Prize of Columbia Lodge No. 66 received at the 13th Maifest 1896.”  There is so little information. Please feel free to contact us if you know more about this piece.

Members want to give a belated welcome to the Hall’s newest bartender, Ashley. She’s doing a wonderful job! Until next time and peace!

Paige members receive pins in September

PAIGE – Paige Lodge will meet Sunday, Oct. 8, at noon at the hall. A potluck lunch will be served. At the November meeting, members meet at a restaurant. Details to be announced. Members welcomed Vice President of Sales Teresa Saathoff and Agent Linda Mattocks at the September meeting.

Vice President of Sales Teresa Saathoff, left, presents a 50-year membership pin to Marissa Weinheimer at the Fredericksburg Lodge annual barbecue in September. The names of pioneers receiving pins was read and two were presented during the picnic.

Teresa presented a 50-year membership pin to Earle Weiss and a 60-year pin to Margaret Boyd. Other pin recipients but unable to attend were Delbert Richardson, 50 years, Helen Baurle, 70 years and Kenneth Baasen and Larry Bassen, 70 years.

Everyone enjoyed hamburgers prepared by Ronnie and Debbie Harmon.

Milton Ihlo

Columbia Lodge bingo volunteers pictured include Bobby Wilbanks, Cecilia Phillips, Gilber t Shelby, Ok Hwa and Allen Hare.

Pictured is a pitcher from 1896 gifted back to Columbia Lodge from Siemering Lodge member and Agent Chris Naughton.

Membership pins were presented at the September meeting of Paige Lodge. Pictured are, from left, Financial Secretary and Treasurer Milton Ihlo, 60-year pin recipient Margaret Boyd, Vice President of Sales Teresa Saathoff, 50-year pin recipient Earle Weiss and Agent Linda Mattocks.

Fort Worth to elect officers at December meeting

FORT WORTH – Fort Worth Lodge will meet Dec. 3 at Rio Bravo Burleson, 1940 S.W. Wilshire Blvd., at 3 p.m. The 2024 officer election will be held, and plans will be made for 2024.

At the September meeting held at Spring Creek Barbecue, the lodge welcomed transfer members Kenneth Baker, his wife Renee and their two girls, Henley and Goldenelse. Renee, Henley and Elsa attended the meeting. Each one of the girls talked about their camp experiences and said they are both ready to go back next year. Not

to be outdone, Robert Balmos and Shannon Jones each talked about their time at camp years ago.

Correspondence included a thank you note from Harvest House for the Join Hands Day donation and letters from the Home Office. A Healing Hearts Purse Bingo to benefit Grief Support Camp will be held Oct. 21 at 11 a.m. at the Home Office.

Martha Walker reaches her 50year membership milestone on Oct. 7. Last month it was reported Kenneth Miller reached his 60-year membership milestone

on Sept. 8, but his name was inadvertently left out. Congratulations to both these members. Happy anniversary to Scott and Shannon Jones who recently celebrated 26 years. Happy Birthday wishes go out to Janice Brackin, Adelaide Childs, Carter Childs, Jackson Childs, Micah Clanton, John Emshoff, Sydney Hampton, Kamden Hazelwood, Carol Hilcher, Lorelei Leonard, Lucas Leonard, Vicki Lewallen, Payton Mitchell, Keaton Nichols, Cutter Stephenson, Chance Voss and Vanesa Winters.

Kirby to celebrate anniversary Oct. 2

KIRBY – Kirby Lodge will hold an anniversary celebration meeting Monday, Oct. 2, at 7 p.m. A catered meal will be provided. Members are asked to bring a dessert.

The next meeting will be held Monday, Nov. 6, at 7 p.m. The main course will be provided. Members are asked to bring a side dish or a dessert.

A social gathering with bingo games was held in September. The lodge provided snacks. Donations were made to the Kirby Hermann Sons Life Scholarship Fund in honor of members, Evelyn M. Bielke, Keith D. Brown, Patricia R. Dyer, Janie V. Leonhardt, Minnie B. Belohavek and Eden J. Centeno.

Birthday wishes were extended to September celebrants Isabella McQuatters and Samantha Schulmeier Kelley. Anniversary

celebrants Donna and Robert Scheel, 54 years, were recognized.

Congratulations to Lillian Bri-

Rutersville Lodge will meet on Oct. 4

etzke who won the quarterly prize of $75 and the $30 attendance prize.

– Andra Fore

Celebrating birthdays at the September Rutersville Lodge meeting were, from left, Kirby Keilers, Margie Svrcek, and Albert Loehr. Attendance-prize winners were Jo Ann Mueller, David Noak, Margie Svrcek, Dorothy Keilers and Cheryl Kuhn. Members enjoyed a meal of fajitas. The next meeting is Oct. 4 at 7 p.m. Chili dogs will be served, and members are asked to bring sides and desserts.

Cameron Lodge to elect officers on Nov. 14

Kirby Lodge members enjoyed bingo and visiting with other members at the September social.

Cameron Lodge recognized birthday celebrants Charles and Jason Ehler at the September meeting held at Circle S. Everyone enjoyed a fish fry with all the trimmings, bread pudding and cupcakes for dessert. Plans were made to have the Christmas party at Circle S. The election of officers and planning for 2024 will be held at the next meeting, Nov. 14 at Dairy Queen.

– Sandra Jones

Henley, left, and Elsa Baker shared their summer camp stories at the September meeting of Fort Worth Lodge.

Tammy Haecker is pictured calling bingo at the Kirby Lodge September social.

Vineta Lodge plans memorial service for Oct. 5

SAN ANTONIO – Vineta Lodge will hold a memorial service at the Oct. 5 meeting. The lodge will furnish fried chicken and members are asked to bring a covered dish.

The lodge will serve a turkey meal at the Nov. 2 meeting. Please RSVP to Ruth Bailey at 210707-3652. The election of officers will be held.

The lodge thanks everyone who attended its 122nd anniversary celebration in September. Special thanks to President and CEO Robin Czarnek and her husband David for joining the celebration.

It is time to elect Home Association representatives and to honor deceased members with a memorial service.

– Reporter

September meeting from President Debbie Jordan, left, and President and CEO Robin Czarnek. Ruth has been a member since Sept. 18, 1953.

7, 1938.

Vineta Lodge past presidents were honored with a gift at the September meeting. They are, from left, Emily Roberts, Ruth Bailey and Debbie Jordan.

Vineta

Molly Groff, center, received her 60-year membership pin at the September meeting from President Debbie Jordan, left, and President and CEO Robin Czarnek. Molly has been a member since Feb. 13, 1963.

Vineta Lodge recognized September birthday celebrants, from left, Emily Roberts, Mary Ann Pintaric and Darlene Ackerman. Mary Ann Pintaric celebrates 102 years!

This 85-year membership plaque was presented to Vineta Lodge member Mary Ann Pintaric. The lodge thanks David Czarnek for making the plaque for the special presentation.

Harmonia plans German meal, music for Oct. 12

SAN ANTONIO – Harmonia Lodge will meet Oct. 12 in the Ball Room. A sausage and sauerkraut dinner will be served, and members are encouraged to bring sides and desserts. The Hermann Sons German Band will provide the entertainment.

The lodge has proposed changing its bylaws to become a family lodge. The first announcement was at the August meeting and the vote will be held at the October meeting.

At the September meeting, the lodge welcomed as guests lodge officers from Mission-Alamo Lodge, J.R. and Joyce Kneupper, Dianne Cline and husband Kirby; from Pershing Lodge, Pat Plouch and husband Ron, Beth Warne

and Janilla Kilborn; from Vineta Lodge, Debbie Jordan, Emily Roberts and Ruth Bailey; from Louise Schuetze Lodge, Lisa Robalin and Lori Naughton; and from Siemering Lodge, Mark Lee.

Past presidents were honored. In attendance were Mike Beam,

Bill Richard,

Everyone enjoyed a meal of spaghetti, salad and garlic bread provided by

September split-the-pot winners at Harmonia Lodge were Thomas Kraus, left, and Bill Richard pictured with President Rene Kraus, center.

Jake White, Stan Steiger, Albert Ranzau, Brad Dietrich and Ernie DeWinnne.

the lodge and sides and desserts provided by members.

Harmonia Lodge recognized past presidents at the September meeting. They were, from left, Bert Ranzau, Brad Dietrich, Ernie DeWinne, Jake White, Bill Richard, Mike Beam and Stan Steiger.

Mike Beam, left, accepts his prize from Harmonia Lodge President Rene Kraus at the September meeting.

Vineta Lodge member Ruth Bailey, center, received her 70-year membership pin at the

Vineta Lodge member Mary Ann Pintaric, 102, center, was presented with a plaque for 85-years of membership at the September meeting. Presenting the plaque were President Debbie Jordan, left, and President and CEO Robin Czarnek. Mary Ann has been a member since July

Lodge member

Shining Stars

Bavaria Beer Breweries Clubs

Costumes Festival Horses

Munich

Oktoberfest

Pretzels Races

Rides

Sidestalls

Singing

Volksfest Wine

Registration Form

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

Name:

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Certificate No._______________________________________________________

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German Culture and Facts

1. The city famous for hosting Oktoberfest in 2017.

3. The most consumed meat in the country.

6. The capital of Germany.

7. A popular golden beverage.

8. This holiday is know as Erster Feiertag in Germany.

9. The continent Germany is located in.

12. A theoretical physicist, who was born in Germany and developed the theory of relativity. (HINT: E=MC2) Down

2. A famous beer festival and travelling funfair.

4. Dominant religion of the country.

5. This word is what Germany is called in the German language.

Across

1. The city famous for hosting Oktoberfest in 2017

3. The most consumed meat in the country

6. The capital of Germany

7 A popular golden beverage

8 Germans celebrate this upcoming holiday,

l

9. The continent Germany is located in

12. A theoretical physicist, who was born in Germany and developed the theory of relativity

(HINT: E=MC2) Down

2. A famous beer festival and travelling funfair

4. Dominant religion of the country

10. A famous sport in Germany that involves kicking a ball.

5. This word is what Germany is called in the German language

10. A famous sport in Germany that involves kicking a ball

11. A company that designs and manufactures shoes, clothing, and accessories and is also popular in America.

11. A company that designs and manufactures shoes, clothing, and accessories and is also popular in America