Vol. 120, No. 11
InsIde Mary Beam honored with retirement party
September 2017
Campers enjoy fun-filled summer
➤ Pg. 7
Final results posted for bowling tourney ➤ Pgs. 10-11
Lodges host joint new member picnic in Comfort ➤ Pg. 18
hermannsonslife.org The summer of 2017 has come to a close at Hermann Sons Life Camp. During the eight weeks, thousands of junior members enjoyed a week (or half-week) of fun in the Texas Hill Country. At the end of each week, a Best Camper was named along with the Most Athletic Camper and the Most Creative Camper. Look for the list of those award recipients on Page 20. On Page 19 you will find pictures of the Camp staff who were recognized for their years of service at Camp. Planning for the summer of 2018 is already under way.
Share your Hermann Sons Life story September is Life Insurance Awareness Month. The Home Office is looking for stories about how life insurance with Hermann Sons Life has benefitted the families of our members. As we continue to seek ways to grow Hermann Sons Life and extend our benefits and products to more and more people, we are asking our members to share their stories about how Hermann Sons Life, its life insurance products and its many benefits have made a positive impact on them and their families.
If you would like to share your story, we invite you to go to hermannsonslife.org/story and complete the form or write your story and email it to kathien@hermannsonslife.org or mail it to Communications Director Kathie Ninneman at Hermann Sons Life, P.O. Box 1941, San Antonio, Texas 78297-1941. Be sure to include a contact phone number or email address. Up to five stories will be chosen for use in upcoming promotional campaigns. The person who submitted each of those stories will receive a $100 gift card.
Page 2 – Hermann Sons Life – September 2017
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 1941 San Antonio, TX 78297-1941 OFFICERS President and CEO Allan W. “Buddy” Preuss Vice President of Operations and COO Samantha Schulmeier Vice President of Finance and CFO Harry Werland Vice President of Marketing Timothy P. Kolbe Vice President of Member Benefits Kimberly A. Krueger DIRECTORS Sandra Jones, Chair Mike Beam Suzanne Hildebrand David Noak Stan Steiger David Wolf LAWS COMMITTEE
Norma Bruns Tommy Daum Agnes Dreibrodt Lillian Franckowiak Debbie Gold Charles Knibbe David Lewis Jeanette Preuss
Robert Prewitt Tim Salge Steven Schellenberg Marlin Tanneberger Ronald Wiatrek Janet Zabransky Gerald Ziemnicki
MEMBER BENEFITS COMMITTEE
Bradform Boehme Frank Brandon Shirley Faske Tammy Kelley
Bradley Klein Ed Kurtz Laura Thigpen
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT COMMITTEE
Elizabeth Byron Tammy Haecker Marsha Kocurek Sayra Martinka
Sherry Rakowitz Lisa Rozacky Irene Schwertner
It seems there is seldom a day when someone doesn’t ask me what a fraternal benefit society is and what makes us different from commercial insurance companies. There is much that differentiates us from other insurance providers, but the simple answer is, “it’s the benefits!” Benefits like community social and volunteer opportunities, youth activities and our Retirement Home help members to have a better life and set us apart from others in our industry. Yet, although we are recognized for these bene-
fits, the greatest member benefit is life insurance. In the earliest days of Hermann Sons, German immigrants band-
ed together to protect each other in times of need. Today, over 150 years later, Hermann Sons Life is still there to protect all Texans. Most of us need more life insurance but hesitate because of the presumed complexity and cost or the inconvenience of someone coming into our home to discuss something unpleasant. Our agents, though, make it easier. They want to help our members take care of each other and to have a better life through the protection life insurance affords.
Doug Saathoff Laura Tiffin Lori Todd
September is Life Insurance Awareness Month, the time to remind ourselves to plan ahead for the ones we love. So take a moment this month to review your coverage. You may have insurance through your work or feel you have enough, but this is still a good time to talk with one of our agents who can confirm your needs and help you to fulfil your responsibility of caring for your family. Let Hermann Sons Life help you protect the ones you love. Buddy Preuss President and CEO
Attention reporters!
Werland honored Vice President of Finance Harry Werland was recently honored with a plaque recognizing his many years of service to the abused and neglected children of Bexar County. Presenting the plaque is Valerie Woodard, acting chair of the Bexar County Child Welfare Board.
Lodge reporters are reminded that the deadline to submit news articles and photos to the Hermann Sons Life newspaper is the 10th of each month. The staff cannot guarantee that information received after the 10th will be published. Information received after that will be printed on a space available basis. The newspaper goes to press anywhere from 10-12 days after the 10th of the month deadline and is delivered to members at the end of that month or the first few days of the next month. The date on the newspaper will always be the next month. For example, information submitted on Aug. 10 will appear in the September issue.
"Hugs from Home"
Give us the name and address of someone who is serving in Iraq or Afghanistan and we will add them to our "Hugs from Home" list of care package recipients. Name ______________________________________ Address Line 1 _______________________________ Address Line 2 _______________________________ Address Line 3 _______________________________
BUSINESS OPERATIONS COMMITTEE
Brad Dietrich Robert Herridge Tammy Jones Edward J. Muehlbrad
President’s Message The greatest member benefit is life insurance
Deployment Dates ____________________________ Clip and mail to:
Hermann Sons Grand Lodge P.O. Box 1941 San Antonio, TX 78297-1941 Attention: Fraternal Department
Donations made to ‘Hugs from Home’ SAN ANTONIO – Donations continue to be made so that more “Hugs from Home” can be sent to military personnel serving overseas. The latest donors to the program were: Hondo Victory Lodge Mission-Alamo Lodge • McGregor Lodge John and Helen Widner Carol Swan • Lillie Mae Dienger Brunhilde Lodge If you would like to make a donation, send it to: Hermann Sons Life Home Office, P.O. Box 1941, San Antonio, TX 78297-1941, Attention: Member Benefits Department. If you know someone serving overseas and would like for him/her to receive a care package, fill out the form to the left and mail it to the same address.
September 2017 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 3
Lodges recognized for projects SAN ANTONIO – In the August issue of Hermann Sons Life, lodges were recognized for their Join Hands Day projects. The names of three lodges were inadvertently omitted from the story. Kirby Lodge received a Gold Level certificate for its project benefitting Honor 22. Two other lodges, El Campo and Bandera County, received Black Level certificates for their projects. We sincerely apologize to these lodges for this oversight.
Seguin to host Food Truck Festival SEGUIN – Seguin Lodge will host a Food Truck Festival at the lodge hall, 2918 W. Kingsbury St., on Sept. 16 from 12 noon until 8 p.m. The food truck vendors will be serving their specialties throughout the day. Some of the foods that will be available include barbecue, Mexican food, fried foods, pizza and specialty burgers just to name a few. There also will be stand-alone booths selling other treats like fudge, jams, jellies and snow cones. If you are interested in becoming a vendor call Paul Gescheidle at 210-430-1131. The Food Truck Festival also will include arts and crafts vendors from around the South Texas area selling quality products.
Children are invited to participate in several kid-friendly events that will be offered on the grounds. There will be live music for listening or dancing and beer will be available at the bar inside the hall. Tickets will be sold for a chance to win a gift basket of
goodies. You do not need to be present to win. The air-conditioned hall will be open for shopping, sitting and listening to music or just hanging out with friends over a cold drink and your food truck meal. The lodge will be collecting non-perishable food items that
will be donated to the Christian Cupboard. The City of Seguin recently passed an ordinance to allow food trucks to operate within the city. If successful, organizers of the Food Truck Festival hope it will get bigger and better in the future. Everyone is welcome.
Events catered meal will be served at 7 p.m. The live aucSEPTEMBER 9 – Coupland Lodge will host a bake sale at two tion will begin at 8 p.m. Live music starts at 8:30
locations beginning at 8 a.m. The two locations are the Coupland Fire Station and the Stock Up Food Mart on Hwy. 95 in Coupland. Money raised will benefit the Coupland Volunteer Fire Department. Call Lena Ging at 512-468-0072 or Glenn Krieg at 512-924-1466 for more information. 16 – Seguin Lodge will host a Food Truck Festival at the lodge hall on West Kingsbury Street in Seguin. For all the details, see the story above. 16 – Cibolo Lodge is sponsoring a rummage sale to benefit the Clemens 4-H Club. It begins at 8 a.m. in the parking lot at Christ the King Lutheran Church in Universal City. 16 – DaCosta Lodge will host a Western dance with music by Charles and the Fab 4. The dance is open to the public. 22-24 – Pershing Lodge members will take their annual trip to the coast. This year the destination is the Beachgate Condos in Port Aransas. For more information, call Terri Armstrong at 210378-0319. 23 – The DaCosta Lodge Hall will host the Crossroads Autism Network’s “Rockin’ the Blues for Autism” fund-raiser. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. A
p.m. Drawings and a costume contest will be held at 10 p.m. Everyone is encouraged to wear their best Blues Brothers attire. Tickets are $20 and include the meal and entertainment. 30 – Rutersville Lodge will host its annual Chicken and Sausage Barbecue beginning at 6 p.m. The evening will include a live auction and music by the This Is It band. 30 – Harmonia Lodge will sponsor its annual benefit golf tournament at The Republic Golf Club in San Antonio. The tournament begins with a shotgun start at 8:30 a.m. Entry fee is $100 per player. For more information, turn to Page 17.
OCTOBER 5 – Hans Boas, professor of Germanic linguistics
at the University of Texas at Austin will be the guest speaker at the Cibolo Lodge meeting. Everyone is welcome to attend especially people who speak German and are interested in preserving the language. The meeting starts at 7 p.m. in the classroom at Christ the King Lutheran Church, 1129 Pat Booker Road, Universal City.
If you would like to see your lodge’s event listed here and in the Events section of the Hermann Sons Life website, call Kathie Ninneman, 210-226-9261, ext. 273, or 1-800-234-4124, ext. 273, or email kathien@hermannsonslife.org.
Editor/Communications Director Kathie Ninneman 210-226-9261, ext. 273 email: kathien@hermannsonslife.org Assistant Editor/Assistant Communications Director Elaine Soto 210-226-9261, ext. 279 email: elaines@hermannsonslife.org Fax: 1-888-443-3377 or 210-892-0252 Website: www.hermannsonslife.org All news articles and photographs should be mailed to: Editor Hermann Sons Life P.O. Box 1941 San Antonio, TX 78297-1941 or emailed to: kathien@hermannsonslife.org Deadline for each monthly issue is the 10th of the month of publication. The Hermann Sons Life newspaper is an official publication of the Order of the Sons of Hermann in the State of Texas. The management and editorial policy of the newspaper shall be in the hands of the Grand President, and the Grand President shall have the authority to appoint a member or members of Hermann Sons as editor and/or business manager thereof (Art. 38, Grand Lodge Laws).
Page 4 – Hermann Sons Life – September 2017
Be a part of our advocacy team With a tax reform plan likely being released by the White House in the coming months, it is important for fraternal benefit societies to be prepared to advocate for the necessity of their fraternal tax exemption . Grassroots advocacy is a form of advocacy originating among individuals concerned about a specific issue . The goal of effective grassroots advocacy is to interact with elected officials and their staff members in an effort to educate and inform elected officials about a cause . The fraternal tax exemption provides the financial fuel for fraternals like Hermann Sons Life to fund member benefits and to make contributions to our communities . The value of the work of fraternal benefit societies to the taxpaying public is more
than $3 .8 billion per year, accounting for charitable giving, educational programs and volunteer activities . The outsized returns to society warrants the tax exemptions granted to fraternal benefit societies . So we can more quickly and efficiently mobilize our members in conjunction with members from other fraternal benefit societies when the time comes, we are asking for individuals to sign up to be part of our advocacy team . It is simple! Join our email list by signing up at https://goo.gl/b5zvLC and we will contact you with instructions on how to contact your representatives when the time is right . Typically you will be asked to help submit emails that will be prepared for you by the American Fraternal Alliance .
Donation to Comfort VFD
On behalf of the Houston Home Association, President and CEO Buddy Preuss along with Executive Camp Director Katie Miller and Retirement Home Manager Brenda Gunnink recently presented a check for $1,050 to Comfort Volunteer Fire Department Fire Chief Adam Eichholz. The donation will allow the Comfort Volunteer Fire Department to purchase a swift water gear package that includes a dry suit, helmet, boots and more.
Inside Lodge Reports Anton Wenzel . . . . . . . . . .32 Austin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28 Bandera County . . . . . . . .31 Bernardo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34 Bexar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28 Boerne . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Brenham . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Comfort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 Corpus Christi . . . . . . . . . .33 Coupland . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 Cuero Family . . . . . . . . . . .33 DaCosta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33 Dallas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Deanville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 Ellinger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28 Fort Worth . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 Fredericksburg . . . . . . . . .25 Gay Hill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 Giddings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 Harmonia . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Helotes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 Kerrville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 Kirby . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
La Coste . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33 Laubach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 Lockhart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31 Louise Schuetze . . . . . . . .33 Macdona . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31 Maxwell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 McGregor . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Mission-Alamo . . . . . . . . .24 Moulton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 New Bielau . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 New Braunfels . . . . . . . . . .26 Paige . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 Paul Vogt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 Pershing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 Plum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31 Rosenberg-Richmond . .34 Round Top . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 Rutersville . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Schulenburg . . . . . . . . . . .31 Siemering . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34 Stern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Vineta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Womack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
Monthly Features 2 2 3 11-14 11 14 15 15 16
President’s Message Donations made to send ‘Hugs’ Calendar of Events Pioneer Members Memorial donation form Memorial donations In Memoriam of Our Deceased Members Medical Notes Retirement Home News
2 2 3 3 4 4 7 8 9 10-11 17 18
Werland honored by Child Welfare Board Reporters reminded of deadline Lodges honored for Join Hands Day projects Seguin Lodge to host Food Truck Festival Be a part of our advocacy team Houston Home Association donates to Comfort VFD Mary Beam honored at retirement luncheon Emily Massengale earns bronze medals Board of Directors meeting summaries Results posted for Statewide Bowling Tournament Harmonia sponsoring annual golf tournament New member evenet held at Hilltop
1 5 5 6 6 35
Share your story with others Jean Merchant retires Life insurance there when you need it Top recommenders listed 100% Families Listing of agents
1 19 20 21 21 21 36
Camp season comes to an end Camp staff recognized Campers receive awards Answers to puzzles on Pg . 36 Bandera County dancers give recital Deadline approaches for CIT Program Shining Stars
New This Month
Marketing News
Youth in Action
Septermber 2017 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 5
Marketing
Life insurance - it’s there when you need it By TIM KOLBE Vice President of Marketing It’s a common occurrence with our agents who write life insurance for a child. Asked if they have adequate insurance protection for themselves, most parents avoid the conversation, or feel they have adequate insurance through their employment and don’t need more. Let’s face it. Most people put off buying life insurance for any number of reasons, if they even understand it. September is Life Insurance Awareness Month and a discussion of why we should consider adequate life insurance protection is timely. Take a look at this list provided by Life Happens, an industry support group of which Hermann Sons Life is a member. Do any of these excuses sound like you? It’s too expensive. In the everburgeoning budget of a young family, things like day care and car payments and possibly student loans eat up a good chunk of the money each month, and a lot of people think that life insurance is just outside those “necessities” when money’s
tight. Two things to consider: Life insurance is often not nearly as expensive as you might think, especially when you can get a good policy for less than the cost of a daily cup of coffee at the local cafe, and well, if money’s tight now, what if something happens to you? That’s the stuff for babies and old people, right? People of a certain age remember Ed McMahon telling them their grandparents couldn’t be turned down for any reason and figure that’s the target demographic for life insurance. Or, you might have been offered a small permanent insurance policy for your newborn, attractively presented with a
cherubic infant on the envelope. The truth of the matter is that these are very specific insurance products just as there are many insurance products for adults in their working years, or for young families that need protection. I’m strong and healthy! You eat right, you stay active, and everyone admires how grounded and centered you are. You passed your last physical with flying colors! That’s GREAT! But you’re neither immortal nor indestructible. It’s not even that something could happen to you - though it could - so much as when you’re at your strongest and healthiest, there’s no better time to get a policy to
protect your loved ones. If you fall seriously ill or suffer significant injury later, it will make it tougher to get that kind of policy, if any at all. I have life insurance through my job. Many people are offered life insurance as part of their employee benefit coverage, and often, it’s the first time they encounter life insurance and have no idea that a $50,000 policy, or one or two times their salary, isn’t as much as they think it is. It sounds like a lot of money (and it is!), until you figure that it has to cover some or all the expenses for your loved ones in your absence. Plus, if you leave the job, it’s typically the type of insurance that doesn’t “move on” with you. I don’t have children. Sure, children are a big reason why some people get life insurance. But that’s not the only litmus for needing protection. If there is anyone in your life who would suffer financially from your loss - your spouse or livein partner, a sibling, even your parents - a life insurance policy goes a long way in making sure everyone’s still OK even if something happens to you. Life insurance- it’s on my
list… eventually. There’s no deadline on life insurance, no mandate from the government on purchasing it. Your parents may have never talked to you about its importance, and it’s certainly not the most invigorating topic of conversation. But don’t let your “eventually” turn into your loved ones’ “if only.” If any of this sounds daunting, just know that it doesn’t have to be. You can start by doing a quick calculation on your own to see if you need coverage (how much and what kind) with our life insurance needs calculator at hermannsonslife. org/right-for-me. And just know that you can also talk things through with a Hermann Sons Life agent at no cost. They will help you figure out how much you may need, and also find a policy that fits into your budget. Your local agent’s contact number is listed in this publication. If you don’t have an agent, you can find one at our agent finder page, hermannsonslife.org/agents. Of course, you may always call us at 800-234-4124, and we’ll be glad to visit with you.
Merchant honored upon retirement The Marketing Team at Hermann Sons Life wishes to recognize and celebrate the retirement of someone who has had an exemplary career with our organization. Jean Merchant, a resident at the Retirement Home, became an agent on July 26, 2007. Until her retirement in May 2017, she racked up some impressive production numbers in the 10 years she was an agent, qualifying for a production club every year of her service to Hermann Sons Life including After 10 years of service, Jean Merchant has retired as a Hermann Sons Life agent. six years in the Grand PresiShe is pictured here with, from left, President and CEO Buddy Preuss, Chair of the dent’s Club and four in the Board Sandra Jones and Vice President of Marketing Tim Kolbe. Executive Club.
“She has been a source of encouragement and proof of success for many of our current agents.” - Vice President of Marketing Tim Koble During her tenure, Jean wrote 24 annuities, totaling $717,748 in first-year premium income, with renewals of almost $1 million. In the life business, she wrote 222 applications totaling $4,294,750 in volume and bringing in almost $641,000 in first year premium income alone. Many of these were SAFE plans that contributed to the continuing popularity of the Retirement Home. She will continue to be
a mentor to her agent replacement at the Home, and her legacy will continue for what we hope will be a long time. “Many new agents-intraining have had the treat of meeting Jean in the Retirement Home dining room and hearing her story of commitment and fidelity to our organization,” Vice President of Marketing Tim Kolbe said. “She has been a source of encouragement and proof of success for many of our current agents. It is with great gratitude that we honor and congratulate her on her retirement as a Hermann Sons Life agent.”
Page 6 – Hermann Sons Life – September 2017
Stehling wins gift card for July recommenders The Marketing Department is recognizing 50 recommenders for the month of July. This brings the total to 289 members recommending 378 new members to Hermann Sons Life in 2017. The winner of the $100 gift card for July is Kaydence Stehling, a member of Comfort Lodge Congratulations to the following July recommenders: Recommender Lucie Jane Bryan, Marion Lodge James C. Stolte Sr., New Braunfels Lodge Anna Roze Boone, Corpus Christi Lodge
Agent Lorene Bielke Shirley Huebinger Troylyn SisnerosGonzalez Frank Boone, Karnes City Lodge Gary Falkenberg Walter Brunner, Marion Lodge (*) Lorene Bielke Dcarlo Burditt, Fort Worth Lodge Marlin Tanneberger Skye Nicole Burditt, New Braunfels Lodge Marlin Tanneberger Alice M. Caballero, Anton Wenzel Lodge Emma Moya Bella Dawson, Gonzales Lodge Bobbie Polasek Eva Erwin Day, Dallas Lodge Sandra Jones Krissie Lorin Feller, Spring Branch Lodge Sandra Duncan Rosemary Fischer, Corpus Christi Lodge Frank Brandon Mercedes Rose Flores, Giddings Lodge Loretta Chilek Patricia Tyerina Flores, Seguin Lodge (*) Carol Krauss Kayla Friesenhahn, Marion Lodge (*) Dan Boenig Nicole Gembler, Mission-Alamo Lodge Sharon Tanneberger Kimberly Gibbins, New Braunfels (*) Shirley Huebinger Marsha Hutchens, Corpus Christi Lodge Carl Behrendt Genevieve Knox, Gonzales Lodge Laura Tiffin Julia Anne Landes, New Braunfels (*) Judy Schulmeier Jordynn Elizabeth Long, New Bielau Mary K. Seifert Sayra Jo Martinka, Da Costa Lodge Jason Luke Hybner Jennier Erin Massey, Louise Schuetze Glenford Boehme Ashley McDonald, San Marcos Lodge Janice Kuhen Andie Brianne Melnar, New Bielau Lodge Mary K. Seifert Arthur Pfefferkorn, Lockhart Lodge Janice Kuhen Lillian Pfefferkorn, Lockhart Lodge Janice Kuhen Betty Polasek, Karnes City Lodge Russell Swize Jarred Popham, Jourdanton Lodge (^) Sharon Tanneberger Mildred Radtke, La Vernia Lodge Marlin Tanneberger Sarah Ann Ransleben, Siemering (*) Sharon Tanneberger Ava Rose Ring, Schulenberg Lodge Mary K. Seifert Minna L. Rothe, Castroville Lodge Glenford Boehme Aberdeen Ruckstuhl, Corpus Christi Troylynn SisnerosGonzalez Koral Addi Schnitz, New Braunfels Lodge Becki Carley Sierra N. Schwab, New Braunfels (^) Shirley Huebinger Khloe Asia Solis, Hondo Victory Lodge Cynthia Sultenfuss Caitlyn Rayann Stade, Spring Branch Sandra Duncan Payton Elizabeth Staley, Cibolo Lodge Tina Ynfante Kaydence Stehling, Comfort Lodge (^) Norma Bruns Mark P. Stewart, Piney Woods Lodge Ruth Bailey James C. Stolte Sr., New Braunfels Lodge Shirley Huebinger Ivy Grey Stricker, Biry Lodge (*) Eulla Krueger Lillian Stricker, Biry Lodge Eulla Krueger Robert Sullivan, Columbia Lodge Helen Brown Daniel Swize, Karnes City Lodge Russell Swize Jaimee Tuttlebee, Castroville Lodge Roxy Pruski Mallory Velasquez, Albert Kypfer (*) Shirley Huebinger Michal E. Waechter, San Marcos Lodge Janice Kuhen Ainsley Buvinghausen, Biry Lodge Marilyn Vogt (*) Recommended 2 new members (^) Recommended 3 new members
Recommend a New Member! Be a part of our “We Strengthen Community” 2017 Campaign and help each Hermann Sons lodge reach its new member goal. Recommend someone you know for membership and you could win a $100 gift card. Every time you submit the name of a prospective new member, your name will be placed in a drawing. Each month one name will be drawn and that person will win a $100 gift card. The more new members you recommend, the more chances you have to win. PROSPECTIVE NEW MEMBER INFORMATION Name_____________________________________________________________________________ Address ___________________________________________________________________________ City ________________________________________ State ______ Zip _______________________ Home Phone ____________________________ Cell Phone _________________________________ Best time to call ____________________________________________________________________ RECOMMENDED BY _________________________________________________________________ My phone number ________________________ My lodge _________________________________
Hermann Sons Life welcomes our new 100% Families! 100% Family Stewart Family Lindsey Kinzie Brian
City Spring Branch
Lodge Prinz Solms
Agent Teresa Saathoff
100% Family Swonke Family Gregory Lori Payton Brinley
City Carmine
Lodge
Agent Loretta Chilek
Giddings Burton Giddings Giddings
September 2017 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 7
Mary Beam honored at retirement luncheon SAN ANTONIO – Almost 150 people - retirees, Home Office staff, officers, board members, family and friends - filled the Hall of Grand Presidents at the Hermann Sons Life Home Office on Friday, Aug. 11, to honor Mary Beam on her retirement after 50+ plus years of service. The room had been decorated all in purple - Mary’s favorite color. She even wore a purple feathered hat in her hair during the celebration. The group enjoyed a steak and baked potato meal prepared by Home Office staff. Several people spoke after the meal including Sister Beam’s successor Samantha Schulmeier. Sister Schulmeier recounted Sister Beam’s life in the organization. She went all the way back to 1945 when Marvin O. Gold became a member of Harmonia Lodge and then took a job at the Home Office. Hermann Sons became his life and he passed that passion for the organization on to his daughter. Sister Beam became a member of Louise Schuetze Lodge on April 1, 1955. During her 50 years at the Home Office she worked with six different Grand Presidents and in almost every department including membership, camp, comptroller’s office and mortgages and loans. She was the Grand President’s administrative assistant for many years and those duties were far-reaching and included responsibilities now handled in other departments. She served as Grand Vice President-Secretary/Treasurer from 1998 until her retirement in June. Sister Schulmeier thanked Sister Beam for her support through the years. Sister Beam thanked everyone who had helped with the luncheon remarking “this is the best.” She spoke fondly of her years of service and the people she had worked with. After her mother spoke, daughter Marla talked about
how Hermann Sons Life had been “a part of her life forever” and how grateful she was to be a part of it all. Husband Mike thanked everyone for honoring his wife in such a way. “Thank you for sending her home to me,” he said. President Buddy Preuss applauded Sister Beam for passing on her love of Hermann Sons Life to her children. Vice President of Member Benefits Kim Krueger thanked Sister Beam for being a mentor. Herby Schramm, a past Grand Lodge officer who worked at the Home Office for many years, recalled that the first time he ever saw Sister Beam she was just a little girl. She came to the office with her father dressed in her black leotard from dance class. “She was so shy,” he remembered. “She would hide behind her dad’s pants leg.” Later when she came to work at the Home Office she and Herby served together. Past Grand President Steve Prewitt said, “Congratulations on your retirement Mary. No
Retired and current members of the Home Office staff who worked for Mary Beam gathered for a group photo at the end of her retirement luncheon. one deserves it more. You have been a true friend for more than 40 years.” He ended his remarks by saying, “there is something very special about our Mary.” Other family members in attendance were her brother Wilfred Gold and niece Debbie Gold and her partner Jack Earle.
Mary Beam’s family joined her at the retirement lunch. Pictured are, from left, son Marcus, Mary, husband Mike and daughter Marla and her fiancee Drake Reynolds. Daughter Margo lives in Seattle and could not attend.
ABOVE LEFT - Mary Beam received the traditional gift given to women who retire from Hermann Sons Life. The James Avery heart charm is engraved with the words “The Heart Remembers,” her name and her dates of employment. ABOVE RIGHT - Sister Beam poses with the cake baked and decorated in her honor.
Vice President of Operations Samantha Schulmeier and President Buddy Preuss both spoke during Mary Beam’s retirement luncheon.
Page 8 – Hermann Sons Life – September 2017
Junior earns bronze medals, breaks records at Deaflympics
Emily Massengale, 16-yearold member of Louise Schuetze Lodge, just returned from competing at the 2017 Deaflympics in Samsun, Turkey. This event is the top event in the world for deaf swimmers. Emily is profoundly deaf and has had cochlear implants since she was just 1 year old. She attended the parent-infant program at Sunshine Cottage in San Antonio and is now a sophomore in high school with a 4.0 grade point average and a passion for swimming. Emily, who lives in Bradenton, Fla., also competed in the Deaf World Swimming Championships that were held in San Antonio in 2015. Emily said she was thrilled when she found out that she had qualified for Team USA. “It was such an honor to represent the United States,” she said as the athletes paraded out in front of over 35,000 spectators at the opening ceremonies. “After the first day, I wasn’t quite so nervous,” she said, “but I still had to stay focused and work hard. “ Emily swam in nine individual events and three relays. Of those events, she qualified for seven individual finals. She earned bronze medals in the 400-meter individual medley and the 200-meter backstroke. She also broke two deaf American records and is now the national record holder in the 100-meter backstroke and the 50-meter
backstroke, a record that had stood for 36 years. Emily said, “This was an experience of a lifetime to get to compete against the best deaf athletes in the world. I am a young athlete and I am still developing my skills. It was a privilege and hard work to earn these medals. These medals also mean that I know I can do even better for Team USA at the first World Deaf Youth Games in 2019 (Buenos Aires, Argentina) and in the next Deaflympics in four years.” “As team staff, there were many responsibilities to manage; but I was so glad to be there in person to see Emily and all of Team USA compete,” said Rene Massengale, Emily’s mother. “These were the best deaf athletes in the world; and our team was right there in the mix. When Emily won her first bronze medal, it was a mixture of elation and relief….and a reminder at some level that deafness does not have to define who you are or hold you back. Emily was making history, one swim at a time; she was there because there had been a village of people who helped her along the way: coaches in club and high school, Indiana Swimming officials and staff, family and friends. These people saw something in her, nurtured that talent, and encouraged her to pursue her dreams. I admire Emily’s spirit, her courage despite her disability, and most of all, her will to keep going, training, and
eventually succeed.” In reflecting on her Deaflympic journey, Emily said, “Those two weeks in Turkey were the best two weeks in my life, and I wish I could do it all over again because it was so much fun. Even more important were the friendships that I made with deaf athletes from all over the world. These athletes understand what it is like to compete without hearing, to always be watching for the start, to always be reading lips or signing to communicate in practice when everyone else hears the coach. They get it and so do I. Deafness does not hold us back.” Emily is continuing her swimming journey as a sophomore at Lakewood Ranch High School and Sarasota Tsunami Swim Club in Bradenton, Fla., where her family has just relocated.
September 2017 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 9
Board of Directors meeting summaries What follows is a summary of the first four meetings of the Hermann Sons Life Board of Directors. Members of the Board of Directors are Chair of the Board Sandra Jones, Vice Chair of the Board Mike Beam, Suzanne Hildebrand, David Noak, Stanley Steiger and David Wolf. President and CEO Buddy Preuss serves in an advisory capacity. All members of the Board attended all of the meetings summarized below.
Tuesday, May 2 The first meeting of the new Hermann Sons Life Board of Directors was held Tuesday, May 2, at 3 p.m. at the Embassy Suites Conference Center in San Marcos. The board reviewed and approved the resume of Buddy Preuss for the position of President and CEO. He in turn presented his recommendations for the four Vice President positions. They were Mary Beam for Vice President of Operations and Chief Operating Officer, Harry Werland for Vice President of Finance and Chief Finance Officer, Tim Kolbe for Vice President of Marketing and Kim Krueger for Vice President of Member Benefits. His recommendations were approved. It was noted that Sister Beam would serve in a temporary capacity until her replacement was selected.
Monday, June 12 The next meeting was held Monday, June 12, at 1 p.m. at the Hermann Sons Life Home Office in San Antonio. The meeting began with the reading of several congratulatory letters from members to the newly-elected Board. Mike Beam was elected Vice Chair of the Board. The Board voted to have the Vice President of Operations and COO, who also is the Corporate Secretary, serve as the official recorder of minutes of all Board of Directors meetings. President and CEO Buddy Preuss and each of the Vice Presidents were given an opportunity to introduce their respective staffs to the Board of Directors. Vice President of Finance Harry Werland and President and CEO Buddy Preuss introduced their staffs that afternoon. The other three officers introduced theirs at the next day’s meeting. During his presentation, Vice President Werland also gave a report on the status of the financial statement, bond purchases and mortgage loans. The board asked for several documents including the annual budget, monthly membership report and statistics, numbers regarding Camp attendance and dance registration and a company vehicle cost analysis. Discussion centered on the cost of member benefits and how to discourage members from surrendering their life insurance certificates. Enterprise Risk Management was discussed. It was noted that insurance companies our size are not required to have an ERM policy but it was agreed that such a policy would be beneficial. Potential concerns were reviewed.
President Preuss reported that our request for a name change to Hermann Sons Life had been placed on the Texas Registry. He noted that if no protests were received within 21 days, the paperwork would be completed. In discussing his immediate goals, he outlined his plan to create a Marketing Think Tank that would gather information and ideas to improve sales, development of a succession plan for officers, development of high level director staff member meetings, assisting the Vice Presidents with meeting their performance goals and acting as an additional resource to the Board. He spoke about the hiring of legal counsel and a human resources director, empowering the Home Office staff, inspiring others to recognize and embrace the Hermann Sons Life vision, releasing an annual impact report to members and focusing on hiring staff with the right skills. In discussing personnel, President Preuss noted that the Grand Lodge Laws approved at Convention give Vice Presidents the power to hire their own employees. Employee salary parameters have been established and were provided to the Board. President Preuss added that job position manuals are being developed along with a cross-training program for employees. The American Fraternal Alliance annual meeting is scheduled for September in Arizona. President Preuss will attend along with Chair of the Board Sandra Jones who will be attending a Board Boot Camp while she is there. President Preuss offered information on Information Technology issues. He noted that a new policy administration system has been studied for a year but the cost of a new system does not fit into the budget at this time. More research on updating the current system is under way. Protection of member information remains a priority when considering access to that information by agents and members themselves. The meeting adjourned after discussion of other items including salary logistics for Board members, vacation and sick leave accrual for officers and the need for and adoption of a preferred strategic planning method.
Tuesday, June 13 The Board reconvened the next morning at 8:30 a.m. Vice President of Operations Mary Beam introduced her staff. Members agreed to review the Board Manual outside the meeting and discuss and approve it at the next meeting. The next topic of discussion was the hiring of the new Vice President of Operations and COO. After reviewing the resumes of all the candidates for the position and hearing from President Preuss, the Board determined that more time was needed before a decision could be made. President Preuss presented his recommendations for Standing Committee recommendations. He explained how the appointees were selected from the wide group of interested members who applied online or were personally asked based on the five re-
gions of representation. The recommendations were approved as presented. Next, the four Special Committees of the Board were appointed. They are as follows: Audit Committee – Chairman Mike Beam, David Noak and Stan Steiger Governance Committee – Chairman Sandra Jones, Buddy Preuss and Suzanne Hildebrand Enterprise Risk Management – Chairman Stan Steiger, Suzanne Hildebrand and David Wolf Strategic Planning – Chairman David Wolf, Mike Beam, Buddy Preuss and all Vice Presidents Core competencies, company goals and marketing structure pertaining to sales agents were discussed. The Board agreed that the company’s main goal is to increase membership, strengthen retention and communicate more with existing members. A previously submitted amendment to Article 33 of Grand Lodge Laws was proposed to more specifically and further define the role of President and CEO in relation to the Board of Directors. The amendment explicitly states that the President and CEO will serve on the Board in an advisory capacity only and as a nonvoting member. This Laws change was approved and made effective immediately with the understanding that it will be reviewed and voted on again by the delegates at the Grand Lodge Convention in 2021. After lunch, Vice President of Member Benefits Kim Krueger introduced her staff and gave an accounting of their duties and her work. Topics of discussion included the focus service cause of grief support services, Grief Support Camp, Join Hands Day, Make a Difference Day, Hugs from Home, the Retirement Home, Camp, Schools of Dance and Future Club. Vice President of Marketing Tim Kolbe then introduced his staff. He spoke with the Board about a variety of topics including agent licensing standards, workshops, continuing education, incentives, sales and support materials provided, commission schedules and upcoming marketing campaigns. He noted that his goal is to increase membership and suggested revisiting social membership. The meeting then adjourned.
Special Meeting Tuesday, June 27 This meeting was held via teleconference. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the appointment of the next Vice President of Operations and COO. President Preuss recommended Samantha Schulmeier for the position. After discussion, the Board approved the recommendation and her salary was defined. The Board then approved changes to the Standing Committees as recommended by President Preuss. David Noak was added to the Governance Committee at his request. The meeting adjourned. The next meeting was held Aug. 7-8. A summary of that meeting will be provided after the minutes have been approved by the Board at the November meeting.
Page 10 – Hermann Sons Life – September 2017
Hermann Sons Life Statewide Bowling Tournament Men
Women
Singles
Singles
BOWLER
1. Karen Burns-Lane 2. Ramona Arnold 3. Cathy Freeman 4. Nanette Wells 5. Kathy Weishuhn 5. Margaret Thielmann 7. Janice Dueitt 8. Deneen Castor 9. Alma Weiser 10. Betty Rust 11. Vicki Watts 12. Christine Korneychuk
HOMETOWN
Fort Worth Houston Fort Worth Rockdale La Grange Houston Houston Fort Worth Giddings San Marcos Dallas Fort Worth
SCORE
731 688 687 685 682 682 678 677 669 668 667 661
PRIZE MONEY
$110.00 $55.00 $50.00 $45.00 $38.00 $38.00 $35.00 $30.00 $27.00 $25.00 $24.00 $23.00
BOWLER
Doubles HOMETOWN
1. Sandra Jones/Darlene Jones 2. Melisa Alvarez/Tammy Haecker 3. Ramona Arnold/ Gloria Lawrence 4. Nanette Wells/Pat Barcak 5. Dana Henderson/Cecily Kelly 5. Jean Dueitt/Pat Bushman
Fort Worth San Antonio Houston/ Giddings Rockdale San Antonio Burton/Houston
1400 1374 1355
$160.00 $100.00 $75.00
1329 1317 1317
$60.00 $52.50 $52.50
Team HOMETOWN
Houston/Fort Worth/ Giddings 2. Strikes Coming Our Way Fort Worth/Rockdale 3. Kirby Pot Luck Kirby
SCORE
PRIZE MONEY
2680 2582 2558
$240.00 $150.00 $110.00
1. Lady Strike Force
1. Ramona Arnold 2. Melissa Petras 3. Cathy Freeman
HOMETOWN Houston La Grange Fort Worth
SCORE
2108 2060 2052
PRIZE MONEY $120.00 $68.00 $48.00
HOMETOWN
BOWLERS
1. James Smith/Jack Earle 2. John Bakke/Roland Griffin 3. Trey Castor/Phil Alvarez 4. Cameron Korneychuk/ Ronnie Jones 4. Travis Smith/Tracy Smith 6. Scott Jones/Jesse Castor 7. Billy Lindsey/Joey Stearns
SCORE
PRIZE MONEY
779 757 742 714 713 699 696 694 688 687 685 684 676
$100.00 $60.00 $54.00 $50.00 $44.00 $40.00 $38.00 $34.00 $30.00 $25.00 $24.00 $21.00 $20.00
SCORE
PRIZE MONEY
San Antonio San Antonio/Ada Fort Worth
1462 $150.00 1384 $90.00 1377 $80.00
Fort Worth Dallas Fort Worth Austin
1374 1374 1362 1346
$65.00 $65.00 $50.00 $40.00
Team TEAM
HOMETOWN
SCORE
PRIZE MONEY
1. A Team 2. Keep It On The Lane 3. Our Time 4. Lane Wizards
San Antonio/Fort Worth Fort Worth Austin Giddings/Fredericksburg
2662 2640 2579 2535
$240.00 $120.00 $100.00 $80.00
All Events BOWLER
San Antonio Austin San Antonio Fort Worth Dallas San Marcos San Antonio Fredericksburg Comfort Austin San Antonio Fort Worth Dallas
Doubles PRIZE SCORE MONEY
BOWLERS
TEAM
HOMETOWN
1. Jack Earle 2. Bob Staats 3. Terry Haecker 4. Trey Castor 5. Tracy Smith 6. Chuck Best 7. Steve Prewitt 8. T.J. Noriega 9. Daron Deike 10. Billy Lindsey 11. Mike Beam 12. Donnie Burns 13. Bart Wells
All Events BOWLER 1. Jack Earle 2. Bob Staats 3. Phil Alvarez 4. Chuck Best
HOMETOWN San Antonio Austin Fort Worth San Marcos
SCORE
2382 2242 2091 2081
PRIZE MONEY $120.00 $70.00 $50.00 $32.00
September 2017 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 11
Plans under way for 54th tourney It’s time to say goodbye to the 53rd Annual Hermann Sons Life State Bowling Tournament. Thanks go to all who attended. It was a great tournament and the delegates and officers had a great meeting. Lots of new ideas were expressed. Thanks go to President and CEO Buddy Preuss for throwing out the first ball and for delivering a donation from the Home Office. There were lots of high scores. The final standings can be found on the previous page. Look for pictures of the winners in the October issue. Thanks go to all the bowlers for their donations to Grief Support Camp. A total of $456 was donated over the two weekends. Thanks also go to Austin Lodge members for their support and help in running the tournament. Special thanks go to Buster and Leona Schaefer who each year go out and get hotel bids and work with the bowling alley to make sure everything is going as planned.
President and CEO Buddy Preuss throws out the first ball to get the 53rd Hermann Sons Life Statewide Bowling Tournament under way. The officers and delegates voted to allow a non-member to bowl three years and to allow two non-members on a team. This will hopefully bring in more bowlers and more members. Some of the non-members bowling have joined Hermann Sons
Life. The 54th tournament will be held next year in Austin at Dart Bowl. Thanks also to those bowlers who bowled with other bowlers they had never met. There was a ladies team that had women from four different cities that bowled and won first place. One of the men’s teams had a father and son who bowled with two men they had never met and they won one of the free team entries. Hope the tournament will grow next year. Start making your plans now to attend.
Pioneers
Robert Busby of San Antonio has received his 60-year membership pin. A member of Harmonia Lodge, he joined on May 24, 1957.
Michael G. Brauer of Fort Worth has received his 60-year membership pin. A member of Fort Worth Lodge, he joined on Nov. 8, 1957.
Nadine Conrad of Sugarland has received her 70-year membership pin. A member of Womack Lodge, she joined on Nov. 2, 1947.
MEMORIAL DONATION FORM Name of Deceased:
Please print
Acknowledgement from Retirement Home Retirement Home Scholarship Fund
Camp Camp Scholarship Fund Grief Support Session at Camp
to go to: Name: Address:
Please print
City, State, Zip: Donor: Address:
Please print
City, State, Zip: Date: Members of Austin Lodge who helped with the state bowling tournament included, from left, Betty and Ed Kurtz and Mary Shugart.
Amount: $ Clip and mail with your memorial contribution to: Hermann Sons Home Office, P.O. Box 1941, San Antonio, TX 78297-1941.
Page 12 – Hermann Sons Life – September 2017
75 Years
josephine j. pflughaupt Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge
lana l. collins laura fae ramzinski Vineta Lodge c.g. scherwitz Waco-Robinson Lodge
vivian s. smith Hondo Victory Lodge
lovel a. blain iii patricia ann nelson Yorktown Lodge
ruth j. pfennig gilbert r. weiss Richland Lodge
60 Years
70 Years wilbert a. ransleben Fredericksburg Lodge richard fred bailey joachim s. fernandi jr. darnell douglas michel Harmonia Lodge
thomas b. black iii martin louis dikes michael f. dikes Anton Wenzel Lodge alice faye hart walter kunze jr. edward e. kunze kevin lee kunze Austin Lodge joanne marie freeman Boerne Lodge
rubylee medford Haskell Lodge
cindy sue lyles veryl gene neumann Brenham Lodge
lawrence f. schenk Helotes Lodge
marsha l. dikes Brunhilde Lodge
stanton chapman jr. Hondo Lodge kay f. skaggs Kirby Lodge sally a. hargroves adele morrison Louise Schuetze Lodge emmitt d. fehlis Maxwell Lodge lynnette m. hurt New Braunfels Lodge robert e. billimek janet kay johnson Poth Lodge thomas w. schwertner Schwertner Lodge
janell d. nelson gerald lee spies glenn allan terry geneva kay watkins Bryan Lodge david m. krause stanley fred wied Cameron Lodge patrick j. biediger Castroville Lodge carrie e. froebel ruth lene froebel Cat Spring Lodge dennis lee basse james michael basse linda basse birck merlyn e. bruns sharon santleben claiborn mary alice davies wayne h. gibson vernell cora homilius
Pioneers chester calvin hurst stella faye kinard douglas richard koennecke mark charles krause deborah finney lee ruby irene rechenthin vivian reeh willis Comfort Lodge
robert paul zappe Hallettsville Lodge
daniel d. wolter Corpus Christi Lodge
james w. moeller Haskell Lodge
marjorie f. foster josephine c. todes Cuero Family Lodge
peter joseph koch Helotes Lodge
wilfred g. korth jr. manerver ann neuman susan m. ochs pamela jean raley DaCosta Lodge edward joe nester leonard c. saathoff richard c. saathoff Dunlay Lodge debra ann hannah caulfield myra sue franklin ruby vadell fraser dewey l. hannah linda kay jennings susan hannah matthews Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge shirley n. lawson rocky von roesler Ellinger Lodge lera bell kipp donald roy mica Flatonia Lodge katharin jo fulfer melvin a. krueger betty c. squires marcia karen walters keith edwin walther Fort Worth Lodge michael c. brzozowski wanda j. lamprecht Gonzales Lodge hagen lippke lloyd p. reidesel Gruenau Lodge
james edmund jory michael ray loessberg larry roland rocamontes maurice david west Harmonia Lodge
robert l. thiele jr. Hochheim-Prairie Lodge jerome h. bendele howard c. saathoff john laake smitherman matthew e. tschirhart Hondo Lodge mary l. heiligman patsy marie nester Hondo Victory Lodge jacqulyn ann foyt richard g. walden Houston Lodge james albert fuchs eusebius martin kotzur jr. judy d. newman david e. theuret Karnes City Lodge ricky l. friedrich emily e.m. harlan victoria m. wilson Kerrville Lodge glenda f. brady lillian y. brietzke wanda k. uecker Kirby Lodge herman glen muecke travis f. muecke Knippa Lodge gary w. shank ivan v. waltisperger La Vernia Lodge
russell f. fehlis fred keith wilson Lockhart Lodge bruno c. voigt jr. Marion Lodge judy c. connor McGregor Lodge joseph hardin frost iii Mission-Alamo Lodge rolf richard lippke Montgomery Lodge kenneth w. lucke patrick a. mueller Moulton Lodge pamella s. clark kenneth w. leschber New Bern Lodge eric keith ammann carolyn o. cobb w.t. henderson ii sandlyn k. mclaughlin jeffrey l. schwarzlose pat best sypert New Braunfels Lodge eddie w. pfeifer jr. Nordheim Lodge scott h. barlow herbert j. bourquin jr. beverley anne cook Pershing Lodge myrtle a. harbers judy ann jurk Plum Lodge debra lynn braddock Poth Lodge steven a. schumann Prinz Solms Lodge mary lou mcguire Rowena Lodge continued on pg. 13
CoNTINUED FRoM PG. 12 aRNolD w. bERGER RaNDy w. FRIEDRICh vIolET Fay hollas kENNETh Roy MaChE shIRlEy a. ohNhEIsER johNNIE MaE qUINN Schulenburg Lodge shIRlEy sToNE CallahaN Sealy Lodge bIllIE lyN laNGE sUsaN RosE lUDEwIG bRENDa DoRIs sChRaNk Seguin Lodge NElsoN a. asChENbECk bRaNCh C. lUETGE GaRETh lEE lUETGE DEbRa kay MooRE wIlMa N. REIChlE Shelby Lodge johN R. CoNRaD PhIllIP l. TayloR Siemering Lodge laRRy wayNE kassNER ERNsT a. RahE jR. vERCIllE k. TRIEsCh Spring Branch Lodge DIaNNa lyNN kRIEG Taylor Lodge ElIzabETh C. GoEDECkE Vineta Lodge MElIssa GoEbEl bIvoNa Waco-Robinson Lodge joyCE a. bRoUssaRD DaRRUl GENE sTEGEMollER Washington Lodge johN RobERT hoRNy PaTTy koloDzIEjCzyk Weesatche Lodge CaRla bakER DUsTy kay bakER GINGER jIll bakER RobERT b. GohlkE Yorktown Lodge MaRjoRIE N. lUENsMaNN Zuehl Lodge
50 Years sIDNEy b. NaTIoN Anton Wenzel Lodge DoRIs jEaN CRUsE PaTsy aNN walkER Austin Lodge MaRy aNN wallaCE Bernardo Lodge RoNNIE w. sChUlTz Bryan Lodge jaNET T. bEDNaRz MaRy lyNN DUCos CyNThIa l. NaEGElIN CaRolyN aNN PoyNoR hazEl haby RUssEll Castroville Lodge
Pioneers vaNNEssa h. sEFCIk Deanville Lodge
GREGoRy DEwITT jUNG Kerrville Lodge
loUIsE a. kolENDa Poth Lodge
sTEPhEN k. ECkERT ThEREsa a. oNEIll Fort Worth Lodge
kEITh allEN FoERsTER kaREN sUE NIChols Kirby Lodge
DoNalD RIlEy bIRkEs Priddy Lodge
RobERT DalE bECkMaNN DEbRa aDEll hERboRT sTEvEN j. kIRChhoFF PaTTI lIGhTsEy DoNNa sUE b. PETTUs Fredericksburg Lodge
CyNThIa D. bookE aNGEla R. TsChIRhaRT waTsoN La Coste Lodge
GINa MaRIE GREEN RobIN l. sEIlhEIMER DaNa REUNGE wEaThERly Gay Hill Lodge GaRy P. sTRUNk General Bee Lodge
bRIaN kEITh GIbsoN Columbia Lodge
TIMoThy w. jaTzlaU Giddings Lodge
kaThRyN lyNN DowNaRD MElIssa jaNE RUsT Comfort Lodge
GaylaN Ray FRaNkE GlaDys C. FRaNkE Goliad Lodge
ElIzabETh MaE jaMEs aNDREw F. NIEMaNN Corpus Christi Lodge
MaRIlyN kRUM Gonzales Lodge
NaNCy aIlEEN aRNDT kaREN bETh baDE jaCqUElINE h. DREhN CINDy loy EGG loRI jaNET FREls holly jEaN s. hICkEy CaRlETTE R. hIlEMaN bElINDa wINklER ollIFF kaThalEEN k. RaTh lIsa aDaMs sEMPER MaRy M. shEPPaRD MIChaEl Roy sPaNN Cuero Family Lodge RhoNDa RENEE aIkEy Coupland Lodge jENNIFER ChaRbUla kay aNN ERIksoN kaREN sUE D. kRaMER jaMIE aNN MaNNING holly G. McCUTChEoN MITChEll McCUTChEoN CyNThIa a. MoNTGoMERy sUsaN FayE kalICh oTwoRTh DaRla kay zElla DaCosta Lodge Ella MaRy RosEMoND Dallas Lodge
September 2017 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 13
kEvIN DwayNE bRowN wayNE D. haRTMaNN jaMEs N. koENIG MaTThEw j. kRaUs RIChaRD McREyNolDs wIllIaM albERT RobINsoN jR. MIChaEl aRThUR swEENEy Harmonia Lodge TERRy lyNN hERMEs Hochheim-Prairie Lodge TIM lEE GIllIaM ClyDE haRRIs PaRsoNs Hondo Lodge RobIN McGRaw FUllER bEvERly G. sEals Hondo Victory Lodge kEITh Ray GoDwIN CaRla j. GUsTaFsoN PEGGy sUE GUsTaFsoN Houston Lodge vERNoN R. woElkE Jourdanton Lodge DalE PFEIFER TEssMaN Karnes City Lodge
bRENT jay vasUT La Grange Lodge CaThERINE a. RIChTER La Vernia Lodge PaTRICIa l. booNE PaTRICIa a. bUChhoRN kIMbERly G. Cox shaUNEEN R. RIzzo CoRINNE RobIChaUx kEllyE MaRIE ToRREs Louise Schuetze Lodge aNThoNy wayNE wENGER Manchaca Lodge ERlaTh E. ENGElhaRDT kERRIE j. GlovER shERI aNN jENTsCh Marion Lodge lINDa M. joNEs GIlbERT a. kIolbassa kaTRINa laMbREChT haRvEy R. sChUbERT jR. DavID C. sChUbERT Mission-Alamo Lodge DaRREN kEN haaRMEyER Montgomery Lodge NINa MaRIE FaUlkNER CyNThIa sChwaRzlosE kaREN wIllIaMs New Braunfels Lodge TaMI RoGENE baITz Old GLory Lodge jaNET RaE GRaNaTo jEaNINE RENEE PECkNE Paul Vogt Lodge wIllIaM j. GEyER jR. allEN w. hoMEIER jR. MaRTha EsThER sToCkING Pershing Lodge REx C. blasChkE GREGoRy D. sENGElMaNN Plum Lodge
TERRI E. MoTT Richland Lodge saNDRa U. haCkEbEIl ToM j. haNCoCk III Rutersville Lodge johN ERwIN hERzIk Schulenburg Lodge GaRy wayNE kNIGhT joE REx kNIGhT PaMEla aNN kNIGhT Schwertner Lodge GaIl MaRIE bRowN Sealy Lodge bRIaN D. bEUTNaGEl jUDITh MaE bRowN TaMbI kay PahMEIER kaREN ElaINE RayE CINDy aNN sCzECh Seguin Lodge saNDRa kay sTRaUss MaRGIE wENskE MaRk aNThoNy wENskE ChERyl E. whITlEy Shiner Lodge loNNIE lEE hUGhEs PaUla alTGElT NEIl NoRMaN T. PloCh sR. aRlEEN a. RosEbRoCk C.I. sChaTTENbERG Siemering Lodge jaMEs R. sybERT Taylor Lodge kaThy aNN haRPER Twin Sisters Lodge baRbaRa jEaN DUElM ThEREsa R. lEoNE NIColE kNIPPa RUTTaN PhyllIs lyNN shaw CollEEN aNN swaIN Vineta Lodge sUE lEN hENzE DEE aNN loTT Yorktown Lodge
Page 14 – Hermann Sons Life – September 2017
Pioneers
Marian Horton has received her 75-year membership pin. Sister Horton lives in Sabinal. She is a member of Fredericksburg Lodge and joined on Feb. 1, 1942.
Peggy Weise of Wallis has received her 70-year membership pin. Sistser Weise is a member of Nordheim Lodge. She joined on April 18, 1947.
Memorial Donations Donations to the Retirement Home in Memory of: vivian l. graham arline kreger marilyn j. saddler audrey paradise marjorie m. keene thomas e. pike george m. prifogle doris e. baumann debra t. bednarz michael j. carey william rand dyer barbara rugen mary f. sureddin clothilde j. (tillie) janowski ruby estelle meyer mark brian mays robert p. parvin
emily k. garcia verona helen harmon Donor: Lockhart Lodge
jack l. mchaney harold v. price michael r. sergent cynthia a. phillips rudolph o. santos ollie m. neff barbara l. garcia felix d. rohler william c. kasberg barbara pruske larry c. tschoepe sandra lynn carter Donor: Pershing Lodge
anita schoenfeld Donor: DaCosta Lodge kervin earl reuter Donor: Giddings Lodge loraine glenewinkel ivan emil wubbenhorst Donor: Brenham Lodge
george prifogle Donor: Virginia Prifogle
Donations to the Retirement Home Scholarship Fund in Memory of: joni huepers Donor: Gulf Lodge
ryan foerster john s. brown Donor: New Braunfels Lodge
Donations to Camp in Memory of: WAYNE EDWARD NOAK CORRINE RUETHER (LEHMANN) Donor: Rutersville Lodge
LORAINE GLENEWINKEL IVAN EMIL WUBBENHORST Donor: Brenham Lodge
IRENE RITTIMANN Donor: Kay F. Skaggs
Donations to Grief Support Camp in Memory of: Darvin W. Ahrens has received his 70-year membership pin. Brother Ahrens lives at Canyon Lake. He has been a member of Harmonia Lodge since June 18, 1947.
Randy Dietel of Texas City has received his 60-year membership pin. Brother Dietel is a member of Fredericksburg Lodge. He joined on May 16, 1957.
Robert Farar has received his 60year membership pin. Brother Farar lives in La Vernia. He has been a member of Harmonia Lodge since Feb. 14, 1957.
Debbie Calland of San Antonio has received her 60-year membership pin. She is a member of Fredericksburg Lodge. She joined on Aug. 13, 1957.
NANCY & RICHARD CULPEPPER ELIZABETH WURZBACH Donors: Members of Dunlay Lodge
ELMA IRENE BRAUN WAYNE NOAK MARY JEANNE WOLF Donors: Home Office Staff
DON W. SAUNDERS Donors: Minnie Piper Stevens Foundation Suzanne Hildebrand Katie Martin Allen Pierce Jennifer & Brandon Cernosek Home Office Staff Texas Business Travel Association Steve & Julie Prewitt Mr. & Mrs. Hal Moorman Lee & Bernice Vogel Leroy & Linda Muehlstein
ELMA IRENE BRAUN Donors: Retirement Home Residents
HARRISON BROWN Donors: Members of Wichita Falls Lodge
WARREN B. FLEMING Donors: Members of Houston Lodge
LUCILLE BUCHANAN Donors: Leroy & Linda Muehlstein
MYRTLE BOENIG Donor: Members of Converse Lodge
EDNA MARIE KOTZUR Donor: Henrietta Fenner
RAYMOND TREVINO Donor: Mary Beam
WAYNE NOAK Donors: Linda & Jim Mattocks Donations to Grief Support Camp also have been received from: Vic & Eulla Krueger Fort Worth Lodge Austin Lodge Pershing Lodge Kim Krueger Brenda Gunnink Comfort Lodge Prinz Solms Lodge Cibolo Lodge Joyce M. Ellis Kirby Lodge Mike Donohue Cuero Family Lodge Gulf Lodge Maxwell Lodge Deanville Lodge Stern Lodge Hermann Sons State Bowling Tournament
September 2017 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 15
Medical Notes Statistics regarding the impact of pancreatic cancer may surprise people unfamiliar with this potentially deadly disease. According to Pancreatic Cancer Canada, the survival rate for people diagnosed with pancreatic cancer has not improved in the last 40 years, and 75 percent of people who have the disease die within a year of being diagnosed. The pancreas is an organ that sits behind the stomach and stretches to roughly six inches long but less than two inches wide. But in spite of its modest size, the pancreas plays a significant role within the body, helping it to digest food and produce hormones such as insulin. Because of those important roles, it’s imperative that men and women take steps to reduce their risk of developing pancreatic cancer.
The American Cancer Society notes that there is no way to prevent pancreatic cancer. Risk factors such as age, race, gender and family history are beyond individuals’ control. However, catching the disease while it is still localized within the pancreas can dramatically improve patients’ chances of survival. PCC notes that ignoring potential indicators in the early stages, when symptoms are typically mild, may allow the cancer to metastasize, at which point survival rates greatly decrease. As a result, learning the signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer and not being shy about immediately bringing any issues to the attention of a physician can be the best defense against this often deadly disease. • Pain in the abdomen or upper back:
Do not discount pain in the abdomen or upper back, especially if it worsens when lying down or three to four hours after eating. • Jaundice: Jaundice is marked by the yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes. This yellowness occurs when there is an excessive amount of bilirubin in the blood, which can happen if a tumor is blocking the bile duct. The ACS notes that some studies have connected heavy alcohol use, which can contribute to jaundice, to pancreatic cancer, while others have questioned that link. • Loss of appetite: Resist the temptation to write off loss of appetite as something innocuous. While loss of appetite might not be indicative of pancreatic cancer, the two have been linked, and men and women who have noticed their
appetites are not as strong as they once were should visit their physicians. • Weight loss: PCC notes that unintended weight loss is often one of the first noticeable signs or symptoms of pancreatic cancer. • Changes in stool color: Adults who notice their stool has changed color should bring this to the immediate attention of their physicians, as these changes are often a byproduct of a bile duct being blocked by a tumor. Stools also may produce an odd, strong odor or float because the fat content is too high. Pancreatic cancer is a potentially deadly foe. Learning to recognize its symptoms and bringing those symptoms to the immediate attention of a physician can mean the difference between life or death.
In Memoriam of Our Deceased Members phyllis ann massengale Vineta Lodge Died Oct. 9, 2015 • Age 69
joyce m. mcilvain Louise Schuetze Lodge Died April 29, 2017 • Age 92
robert m. buffington Bryan Lodge Died June 4, 2017 • Age 81
ronald l. schuchardt Seguin Lodge Died June 14, 2017 • Age 71
walter fred schaefer Bandera County Lodge Died June 26, 2017 • Age 75
allan g. hedtke Karnes City Lodge Died Jan. 2, 2016 • Age 79
frances m. chamberlain Comfort Lodge Died May 3, 2017 • Age 100
edmund schorn jr. Zuehl Lodge Died June 5, 2017 • Age 88
dolores sue yett Mission-Alamo Lodge Died June 18, 2017 • Age 67
robert d. nicholson Del Rio Lodge Died June 26, 2017 • Age 83
allyne e. fisbeck Moulton Lodge Died Nov. 19, 2016 • Age 85
dorothy m. evans Houston Lodge Died May 6, 2017 • Age 94
howard t. grunwald Corpus Christi Lodge Died June 5, 2017 • Age 85
yvette elee hornak Shelby Lodge Died June 18, 2017 • Age 59
ray joy otto wiederstein Converse Lodge Died June 27, 2017 • Age 86
margaret massengale Fort Worth Lodge Died Nov. 25, 2016 • Age 77
jay stirling pick Cuero Family Lodge Died May 17, 2017 • Age 55
melvin f. henkes Shive Lodge Died June 6, 2017 • Age 83
elwood james kelm Gay Hill Lodge Died June 20, 2017 • Age 80
tommy d. thompson Comfort Lodge Died June 27, 2017 • Age 63
susan carol squires Siemering Lodge Died Nov. 25, 2016 • Age 80
robert edward keith Brenham Lodge Died May 18, 2017 • Age 64
alvin julius zunker jr. Harmonia Lodge Died June 7, 2017 • Age 89
clarence o. haveman Karnes City Lodge Died June 20, 2017 • Age 98
marie l. mitchell Roscoe Lodge Died July 1, 2017 • Age 86
verda l. krause Austin Lodge Died Dec. 7, 2016 • Age 91
vernon r. roesler Ellinger Lodge Died May 29, 2017 • Age 74
jeff d. norwood Orange Grove Lodge Died June 8, 2017 • Age 70
roy henry nolte Cuero Family Lodge Died June 23, 2017 • Age 93
robert j. lutz Dunlay Lodge Died July 21, 2017 • Age 70
myrtle boenig Converse Lodge Died Feb. 22, 2017 • Age 94
myrtle jory stopak Louise Schuetze Lodge Died May 30, 2017 • Age 98
edna kotzur Karnes City Lodge Died June 8, 2017 • Age 96
pauline kelling Knippa Lodge Died June 23, 2017 • Age 86
The names of deceased members are listed on this page only after a death claim has been filed.
richard p. pruitt Maxwell Lodge Died March 11, 2017 • Age 93
ollie mary mendel DaCosta Lodge Died June 1, 2017 • Age 92
maurice b. krause Louise Schuetze Lodge Died June 10, 2017 • Age 95
dalton l. thurk DaCosta Lodge Died June 24, 2017 • Age 81
barbara sue spacek Bellville Lodge Died March 26, 2017 • Age 74
russell w. stone McGregor Lodge Died June 1, 2017 • Age 56
gloria w. stryker Womack Lodge Died June 12, 2017 • Age 95
glynn earl dreyer Brenham Lodge Died June 25, 2017 • Age 73
shirley k. ruppel New Braunfels Lodge Died April 6, 2017 • Age 97
gloria l.k. krause New Ulm Lodge Died June 3, 2017 • Age 93
celeste e. luedecke Louise Schuetze Lodge Died June 14, 2017 • Age 89
rudolf o. biedermann Brunhilde Lodge Died June 25, 2017 • Age 88
In the August issue, because of a computer error, Mildred N. Jostes of General Bee Lodge was listed as deceased. Mrs. Jostes is not deceased. Her husband, Norman Jostes, is deceased. We sincerely apologize for this error and any confusion or misunderstanding it may have caused.
Page 16 – Hermann Sons Life – September 2017
Retirement Home
Residents celebrate Fourth with hot dogs, ice cream COMFORT – Visitors to the Retirement Home in July were Beth Cruse, Siemering Lodge; Glenn and Edie Hellums, Comfort Lodge; Walter and Jenny Franklin, Moore; Jodie Wilson and Teela Jones, Trinity Nursing and Rehab, Comfort; Gerald and Shirley Karnei, Yorktown; John Miller II, Harmonia Lodge; Ann Nelson, Comfort Lodge; Butch and Kelli Schuessler, Galveston; Cindy Smith, Mesquite; and Nicole Blake, Rockwall. The Home celebrated the Fourth of July with grilled chili dogs with all the trimmings and warm cherry cobbler and ice cream for dessert. Cook Barbara Kisselburg and helper Connie Schladoer prepared the meal.
The family of residents Bob and Elsie Anderson met a few days early on July 29 to celebrate Bob’s birthday. After lunch in Comfort at High’s, Mary and Philip Boxwell, Poteet; Lisa and Jim Cantrell, Utopia; Burt Anderson, Garden Ridge; Sherry, Rose and Laurel Neeley, Grand Prairie; Brad and Ashley Hawkins, San Antonio; and Justin and Brittney Pellegrino, Garden Ridge had cake and ice cream here at the Home. Bob and Elsie enjoyed the get-together. Anglican Priest David Guthrie with resident Al Schroeder assisting conducted chapel service and Holy Communion on July 31. – Helen Widner
Anton Wenzel Lodge members had lunch with Home residents and provided entertainment and prizes on July 16. Fun, fellowship and games are always welcome.
Celebrating July birthdays at the Home were, from left, Nina Spenrath, Chief Boring and Woody McClure. Birthday cake and ice cream were served at the noon meal on July 25 in their honor.
Also celebrating July birthdays at the Retirement Home were, from left, Susan McGuire, Sam Franklin and Pat Feuge.
Resident Rosie Franklin and her family gathered the weekend of June 30-July 2 at Bandera State Park for their fifth annual reunion. Eight of Rosie’s 12 surviving children attended with their families. Dale, Eddie, Sandra and Mary were unable to attend. Their uncles Troy Franklin and Home resident Sam Franklin with their families also attended. Rosie reported, “More than 80 attended and we all had a wonderful time and are looking forward to next year.”
The girls from Riverside Camp came to the Home on July 13 to entertain residents. Not only did they perform Camp songs, they shared popsicles and chatted with the residents. Then they used sidewalk chalk to create lovely works of art for the residents to enjoy. What a joy it was to have these delightful girls spend time visiting with Home residents.
Inquiries about living at the Retirement Home should be directed to Member Benefits Coordinator Cecily Kelly at 210-892-0272 or 888-556-4875 or email her at cecilyk@hermannsonslife.org
September 2017 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 17
Tourney benefits Camp Discovery, 100 Club SAN ANTONIO – Harmonia Lodge will host its annual benefit golf tournament on Saturday, Sept. 30, at The Republic Golf Club in San Antonio. The tournament will begin with a shotgun start at 8:30 a.m. The tournament name has been changed to Hermann Sons Life Tee It Up For a Cause. Proceeds from the tourna-
ment will benefit two worthy causes The first is Camp Discovery, a camp for children with cancer. Camp Discovery has been the beneficiary of the tournament since it began almost 25 years ago. This year the tournament will also benefit The 100 Club. The 100 Club of San Antonio supports the families of law en-
Tournament Sponsorships Send the form and check made payable to Harmonia Lodge along with the name of the sponsor (person, company or organization) and contact information including a phone number to Harry Werland, P.O. Box 1941, San Antonio, TX 78297-1941. ■ ALBATROSS SPONSORSHIP - $3,000 (2 teams/ 2 hole sponsor signs/sponsor signage at the event/recognition on all correspondence) ■ EAGLE SPONSORSHIP - $2,500 (1 team/2 hole sponsor signs/sponsor signage at the event/ recognition on all event correspondence) ■ BIRDIE SPONSORSHIP - $2,000 (1 team/1 hole sponsor sign/recognition at the awards lunch/ recognition on all event correspondence) ■ 19th HOLE SPONSORSHIP - $1,500 (1 team/ table top signage at the awards lunch/ recognition during the awards lunch and on all event correspondence) ■ PARTY HOLE SPONSORSHIP - $1,500 (1 team/ opportunity to set up and staff a tent on the course) ■ CART SPONSORSHIP - $1,000 (1 team/ sponsor logo on all golf carts) ■ PAR SPONSORSHIP - $500 (1 team/one hole sponsor sign) ■ TEAM SPONSORSHIP - $400 (1 team) ■ LONG DRIVE SPONSORSHIP - $250 (signage on two long drive holes) ■ CLOSEST TO THE PIN SPONSORSHIP - $250 (signage on two closest to the pin holes) ■ HOLE SPONSORSHIP - $125 (signage on one of the 18 holes)
forcement and fire department personnel who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for their community. The Home Office will contribute $500 from its Matching Funds Program. Cost per player will be $100. The fee includes a goodie bag, greens fee, cart, range balls and awards luncheon. The tournament will follow a
four-person Florida Scramble format. There will be team prizes, contests, door prizes and a silent auction. The lodge is looking for sponsors for the event. Several levels of sponsorship are available. The levels of sponsorship and what the sponsor will receive in return for their donation are listed below.
A silent auction also be held. Prizes are needed for that as well as door prizes. Cash donations also will be accepted. Wells Fargo has once again signed on to be a sponsor. To sign up for the tournament or to make a donation, contact Harry Werland by phone at 210-892-0274 or by email at harryw@hermannsonslife.org.
Page 18 – Hermann Sons Life – September 2017
Lodges host joint new member event
COMFORT – On Saturday, Aug. 12, Boerne, Comfort, Kerrville, Paul Vogt and Prinz Solms lodges came together to host a New Member Welcoming Party at Camp’s Hilltop facility in Comfort. Several families showed up right at 11 a.m. and children began bouncing in the bounce house. Many lodge officers were present to help welcome new members. Vice President of Marketing Tim Kolbe talked about life insurance needs and made a presentation to the group before lunch. Special Representatives Teresa Saathoff and Marilyn Vogt were in attendance along with agents
Norma Bruns, Clifton Klabunde, Betty Murphy and Pamela Poulk. A few new member leads were obtained over the course of the Welcoming Party. After lunch, many of the attendees cooled off in the pool while others played cards and dominoes throughout the event. Engagement Director and Comfort Lodge Vice President Jennifer Cernosek explained that the planning for this event started in January at the installation of officers where many of these lodges were gathered together. Lodges were encouraged at the installation to find a special way to welcome new members to Hermann Sons Life and their lodges.
Paul Vogt President Pearl Barnard plays dominoes with Paul Vogt members Betty Friar, Corey Friar and R.J. Poulk. Prinz Solms President Clifton Klabunde can be seen in the back starting his own domino game.
Sam and Kathy L’Huillier watch the pool activities. Many attendees cooled off in the pool after lunch.
In preparation for the New Member Welcoming Party, lodges sent invitations via postcards to those who had joined their lodge since January 2016. Each lodge or their members in attendance were asked to bring a designated part of the meal – sandwiches, chips or dessert. “It was wonderful to have five lodges come together to try something new with the intention of welcoming and engaging new members,” Sister Cernosek said. All five of the lodges shared expenses and had lodge officer representation at the event. Sister Cernosek continued by saying that everyone really appreciated having a Marketing
presence at the party and that Vice President Kolbe had been especially supportive of the effort to welcome new members in this way. She added that Executive Camp Director Katie Miller and her team deserved special thanks for allowing use of the Hilltop Dining Hall and outdoor spaces. Discussion has already started about the potential of holding the event again next year but inviting more lodges to participate. President and CEO Buddy Preuss attended the Welcoming Party with his wife Elizabeth and said he “applauds the lodges for celebrating their new members in a special way.”
Cailyn Buckaloo of Kerrville Lodge attended with her family. She became a member in 2016.
Lodges worked together to coordinate the sandwich lunch. Some of the children colored before eating and swimming.
Vice President of Marketing Tim Kolbe spoke with Tammy Aldrich about the features of one of the life insurance plans offered by Hermann Sons Life.
New junior member Olivia Stehling and her mother Amy Stehling visit with Comfort Lodge President Connie Spenrath and Comfort Lodge Financial Secretary Bobbye Burow at the check in table.
September 2017 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 19
Staff recognized for years of service at Camp Riverside Camp Director Kristen “Dyno” Vineyard, center, celebrated 10 years at Camp this summer. Dyno has worked as a junior counselor, counselor, senior counselor, program assistant and camp director. She is pictured with her mother, Joanna Klug, and father, Chris Vineyard.
Executive Camp Director Katie Klohn Miller, right, celebrated 10 years of employment at Camp this summer. Throughout her years at Camp she has worked as a junior counselor, Canteen clerk, counselor, program assistant, Riverside director, and executive camp director. She is pictured with Vice President of Member Benefits Kim Krueger.
Riverside Health Manager Kathy Banks, pictured with daughter Emma, was recognized for 10 summers of service at Camp. She has worked as a health manager at both Riverside and Hilltop.
Riverside Health Manager Tina Dietrich, right, pictured with Executive Camp Director Katie Klohn Miller, also celebrated 10 years of service this summer. She first came to work at Camp with her own children and now she works while her grandchildren attend Camp.
Receiving their three-year chairs at Hilltop during Week 8 were counselors Collin “Snorlax” Johnston, Jared “Keys” McCash, Rusty “Grandpa” Badders, Daniel “Bacon” Hoffman, Russell “Superstar” Chavez, Nick Blundon and Senior Counselor Cole “E-loc” Bendele. Not pictured are Max “Wolverine” Bohnert, a counselor; Gage Finke, a maintenance worker; and Jorge Lozano, food service manager.
Makayla Aldrich, a food service worker, was recognized for three years of service.
Hilltop Senior Counselor Dylan Pique completed his third summer on staff this summer.
Riverside staff members being recognized for three years on staff were Bella Rios, Dakota “Double-Take” Chambers and Casey “Tigger” Gaiser. Not pictured are counselors Kayla “Inertia” Rangel, Laurel “Moby” Theriot, Jamie “Siren” Krauter, Elizabeth “Goldilocks” Cline, Amanda Kennedy and Micaela “Mickey” Steffek, Health Manager Cailin Mica and Canteen Clerk Angelica “Jelly” Contreras.
Riverside counselors Sabrina “Dory” Hamm and Sara “Sawdust” Carillo were recognized for three years of service at Camp.
Page 20 – Hermann Sons Life – September 2017
Excellence in Leadership Award created to recognize CITs COMFORT – A new award was created at Hermann Sons Life Camp this summer. The Excellence in Leadership Award was presented each week to a second year participant in the Counselor-in-Training program. At Hilltop the award was given in memory of a former staff member, Eric “E-Wreck” Harrison. E-Wreck was a camper, CIT, junior counselor, counselor and senior counselor. He had a passion for Camp that was contagious and Camp is a better place because of him. Here are the recipients of the first Excellence in Leadership Awards.
RIVERSIDE Week 1 Kathleen Bratton Prinz Solms Lodge Daughter of Carl and Sally Bratton Bulverde Week 3 Alexandra Tullos Hallettsville Lodge Daughter of Todd and Angela Tullos Hallettsville Week 7 Hannah Bohnert Columbia Lodge Daughter of Troy and Yolanda Bohnert Denton
HILLTOP Week 2 Walker Reinhard Harmonia Lodge Son of Scott and Susan Reinhard La Vernia Week 6 Jacob Aguado Bexar Lodge Son of Sam and Kim Aguado Boerne Week 8 Conner Kornmayer Gulf Lodge Son of Kim Kornmayer Houston
The Hilltop Eric “E-Wreck” Harrison Excellence in Leadership Award was created this summer to recognize second-year counselors-intraining. On hand in Week 6 to personally present the award were E-Wreck’s parents and brother. Pictured are, from left, Hilltop Camp Director Hunter Miller, award recipient Jacob Aguado, Henry Harrison, Debbie Harrison and Aaron Harrison.
Best Campers, Most Athletic, Most Creative earn awards Best Camper Riverside
Week 1 Lylah Bosher Richland Lodge Daughter of Tonya and Rylan Boshar Georgetown Week 2 Rylee Braun Prinz Solms Lodge Daughter of Kelly and Jeffrey Braun San Antonio Week 3 Delaney Dwyer Lockhart Lodge Daughter of Amber and Joshua Dwyer Las Cruces, New Mexico Week 5 Maren Bell Manchaca Lodge Daughter of Justin Bell and Larelle Fournier San Antonio Week 6 Madison Sotelo Castroville Lodge Daughter of Jamie and Mike Sotelo Castroville Week 7 Jodi Norton New Braunfels Lodge Daughter of Brandi and Justin Norton Spring Branch Week 8 Carlee Pharris Vineta Lodge Daughter of Paul and Kym Pharris San Antonio
Hilltop Week 1 Gage Luna Bexar Lodge Son of Sandra and Roger Luna San Antonio Week 2 Weylin Bruce-Gonzales Hondo Lodge Son of Leah and Erik Bruce Hondo Week 3 Steven Neff II Laubach Lodge Son of Catherine and Steve Neff Arlington Week 5 Edward Niland New Braunfels Lodge Son of Melissa and Edward Niland New Braunfels Week 6 Lucas Smock New Braunfels Lodge Son of Kyle and Elise Craig New Braunfels Week 7 Korbin Pechacek Boerne Lodge Son of Michelle and Damien Pechacek Boerne Week 8 Patryk Rzepczynski Spring Branch Lodge Son of Agnus and Marcin Rzepczynski Krakow, Poland
Most Athletic
Riverside Week 1 Elexis Pearson Bandera County Lodge
Daughter of Lana and William Pearson Lakehills Week 2 Rylee Braun Prinz Solms Lodge Daughter of Kelly and Jeff Braun San Antonio Week 3 Paige Pesek Comfort Lodge Daughter of Amy and Darrell Pesek Houston Week 6 Brighton Beard D’Hanis Lodge Daughter of Jill Beard D’Hanis Week 7 Rebecca Wagner Shiner Lodge Daughter of Donna and Tim Wagner Shiner Week 8 Carlee Pharris Vineta Lodge Daughter of Paul and Kym Pharris San Antonio
Hilltop
Week 1 Ryder Bonser Spring Branch Lodge Son of Brandon and Gretchen Bonser Spring Branch Week 2 Reese Braun Prinz Solms Lodge Son of Kelly and Jeff Braun San Antonio Week 3 Luke Elliot New Braunfels Lodge
Son of Luan Elliot New Braunfels Week 6 Isaac Spreen Cibolo Lodge Son of Steven and Jennifer Spreen Schertz Week 7 Kale Williams Spring Branch Lodge Son of Margo and Bubba Williams Bulverde Week 8 Kenneth McMullen New Braunfels Lodge Son of Kenneth and Wendy McMullen New Braunfels
Most Creative
Riverside Week 1 Emilie Janicek Nixon-Smiley Lodge Daughter of Tasha and Mark Janicek Smiley Week 2 Kylie Mutz Prinz Solms Lodge Daughter of Dwayne and Karen Mutz Boerne Week 3 Julianna Moreno Helotes Lodge Daughter of Elizabeth and Benjamin Moreno San Antonio Week 6 Karley Long Spring Branch Lodge Daughter of Katherine Long Canyon Lake
Week 7 Ellie Fike Schulenburg Lodge Daughter of Staci and Alan Fike Flatonia Week 8 Isabella Deleon New Braunfels Lodge Daughter of Marie and Robert Deleon San Antonio
Hilltop
Week 1 Logan Fischer Hondo Lodge Son of Dianna and Dale Fischer San Antonio Week 2 Tanner Davis Hondo Lodge Son of Chris and Kari Davis Boerne Week 3 Wesley Garrett Houston Lodge Son of Kerri and Todd Garrett Pearland Week 6 Xander Zerr Hondo Lodge Son of Mary and Randell Zerr Friendswood Week 7 Bode Prove Jackson County Lodge Son of Melissa and Andy Prove Shiner Week 8 Sebastian Wolff Prinz Solms Lodge Son of Shelly and Haley Wolff New Braunfels
September 2017 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 21
Bandera dancers walk ‘Red Carpet’
BANDERA – Students from the Bandera County School of Dance performed tap, ballet and jazz routines during the May recital held at the Bandera High School Auditorium in Bandera. The theme for the recital was “Red Carpet.” Dancers performed to songs like “That’s Amore,” “Pink Panther,” “Jail House Rock” and “Hall of Fame ” among others. The school of dance was cel-
The Bandera County School of Dance Class 3 performed “Jailhouse Rock” at the dance recital held in May. The students are Olivia Brown, Jenna Watson, Morgan Williams and Kierstin Brown.
ebrating its 18th year and 18th recital. Kathelyn Latiolait served as master of ceremonies for the evening. Serving as Parents’ Club officers were president, Stephanie Brown; vice president, Trisha Brown; and secretary/treasurer, Melissa Watson. The parents and dance instructor Emily Brown were thanked for their support. – Reporter
The Bandera County School of Dance Class 2 performed “Pink Panther” at the May recital. The students are Ryleigh Laine, Mattie Laine and Josie Fox.
The Bandera County School of Dance Class 1 performed “That’s Amore´” at the annual dance recital. The students are Karlee Hamilton, Ella Vollmer, Josey Vollmer and Presley Binnert.
The Bandera County School of Dance Class 4 performed “Hall of Fame” at the May dance recital. The students are Carley Niccum, Ashlyn Brown, Sierra Brown, Emily Brown, Zoe Spindle and Avery Watson.
Pg. 36 puzzle answers
Deadline to apply for CIT Program nears Are you a Hermann Sons member who could not attend Camp this summer because you were 14 years old? Now is the time to apply for the 2018 Counselor-In-Training program! To be eligible to apply to this program, you must be a past Hermann Sons camper, a current member of Hermann Sons, and you must turn 15 by Sept. 1, 2018. Eligible applicants will be invited to an overnight interview camp in late 2017 or early 2018 in Comfort. The CIT program offers past campers educational and
leadership experiences, preparing them to be the future leaders at Camp and in their communities. If you would like to be considered for the CIT program, the application will need to be completed on the Hermann Sons Life website. Go to hermannsonslife.org/counselortraining-application. Applications are due no later than Sept. 30, 2017. If you have questions about the CIT program contact Executive Camp Director Katie Miller by calling her at 830995-3223 or by emailing her at katiek@hermannsonslife.org.
Page 22 – Hermann Sons Life – September 2017
Rutersville plans barbecue benefit for Sept. 30 RUTERSVILLE – Rutersville Lodge has planned a potluck meal for the Sept. 6 meeting. The lodge will hold its barbecue benefit on Sept. 30. The meal will consist of barbecue chicken, sausage, noodles, beans and slaw along with sliced onions, pickles, bread, tea and coffee. A cake wheel is planned so members are asked to bring cakes for that and to serve sliced. There will be an auction and live music by “This Is It.” Members enjoyed a Family Fun Night Saturday, July 28, with a great crowd in attendance. Weldon and Kyle Hartmann prepared a meal of fried and grilled fish. Director David Noak presented 60-year membership pins to Marilyn Gest, a member since April 24, 1957, and to Ginger Muesse, a member since July 8, 1957. Fifty-year pins were presented to Glen Hartmann, a member since Dec. 6, 1967; Weldon Hartmann, a member since Nov. 8, 1967; and Ricky Kuhn, a member since April 6, 1967. A silent auction was held which led to some competition between bidders. The regular monthly meeting was held Wednesday, Aug. 2. Nearly 40 members enjoyed a
Rutersville Lodge members Marilyn Gest and Ginger Muesse received their 60-year membership pins from Director David Noak Sr. and Vice President Weldon Hartmann during the lodge’s Family Fun Night. meal of grilled hamburgers and homemade ice cream. Sherry Noak, Lee Ann and Weldon Hartmann and Jo Ann Mueller furnished the ice cream. Agent Linda Mattocks spoke and asked for new member referrals to help the lodge meet its 2017 new member goal. A get-well card was sent to Mary Noak and sympathy cards were sent to the Wayne Noak family and the Corrine Ruether Lehmann family. Wayne Noak was a lodge trustee. His son, Greg, will complete his term. Campers Gavin Noak and Kaden Noak reported on their Camp activities. Celebrating anniversaries
Membership pins were presented during Rutersville Lodge’s Family Fun Night in July. Pictured are, from left, Director David Noak and 50-year membership pin recipients, Weldon Hartmann, Glen Roy Hartmann and Ricky Kuhen.
Anniversary celebrants from Rutersville Lodge this summer were, from left, Greg and Christy Noak and Susan and Roy Weyand.
Celebrating birthdays in July and August from Rutersville Lodge were, from left, Celia Kovar, David Noak and Kaden Kovar.
were Roy and Susan Weyand in July and Christi and Greg Noak and ElGene and Darlene Wey-
Bayer, Delores Schmitt, Margie Svrcek and C.D. Jenkins. – Reporter
and in August. Attendance prize winners were Brian Mueller, Delores
Boerne hosts speaker who gives history of quilts BOERNE – Boerne Lodge will meet Friday, Sept. 1, at 12 noon at Kronkosky Place. Lunch reservations must be made in advance by calling the Rainbow Senior Center by 9 a.m. the day of the meeting. The lodge met Aug. 4 and welcomed Jane James and Rosemary Merdian as guests. Mrs. James was the guest speaker and she talked about the history of quilts. She noted that it was rumored that members of the Underground Railroad might have displayed handmade quilts with secret codes in strategic locations in the South. Depending on the quilts
displayed, slaves were able to determine if travel was safe and what direction they should take. The Underground Railroad consisted of a series of safe houses and people who helped provide safe passage for slaves wanting to escape to freedom in the North or Canada. Mrs. James brought many lovely handmade quilts that she made and explained the different patterns and designs. She explained that quilt making is a good way to recycle fabric and is a rewarding and relaxing hobby. Marilyn Vogt read a letter from Vice President of Mar-
keting Tim Kolbe reminding everyone about the “We Strengthen Community” Membership Growth Campaign. He urged members to help the lodge meet its new member goal for 2017 by spreading the word about Hermann Sons Life. Celebrating August birthdays were Barbara Christiansen, Esther Faecher, Don D’Spain and Annette Bourgeois. Congratulations to Donald and Barbara D’Spain who celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug. 5. Jack Faecher was the winner of the door prize. – Reporter
Jane James displays one of the many quilts she has made. She was a guest speaker at the August meeting of Boerne Lodge.
September 2017 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 23
Vineta anniversary celebration set for Sept. 7 SAN ANTONIO – Vineta Lodge is making plans for its anniversary celebration on Sept 7. A roast beef meal with the trimmings will be served. Make reservations by calling 210602-5147 no later than Aug. 31. Past presidents will be honored and pins will be presented to pioneer members. If you received a letter about your membership pin call Ruth Bailey at 210-602-5147. On Sept. 20 a social gathering will begin at 10:30 a.m. Games will be played and then lunch will be served. Thanks go to Debbie Jordan for the meal served at the August meeting and to birthday honorees Gladys Garrett and Lorene Kreusel for the cake they provided. Thanks go to all members who brought school supplies. The supplies will be donated to the Children’s Shelter of San Antonio. Congratulations go to Beth Byron for her appointment to the Grand Lodge Community Engagement Committee. New members welcomed into the lodge are adult Michele Schantz Jordan and junior Aniston Cecile Kreusel. Attendance prize winners were Beth Byron, Mary Ann Pintaric, Annette Unger, Ralph Unger and Al Kreusel. The split-the-pot winner was Elaine Unger. In a two-hour period on July 31, the lodge lost Roselee Chaney and Elaine Pruski. Both of these ladies were past presidents and active members of the lodge. The lodge also mourns the loss of Elise Moryl, a member for 69 years, and Judith Ahr, a
Elaine Unger receives her Vineta Lodge scholarship from committee members. Pictured are, from left, Janelle Harshaw, Irene Kace, Elaine Unger and Beth Byron.
Hannah Jordan receives her Vineta Lodge scholarship from committee members. Pictured are, from left, Irene Kace, Janelle Harshaw, Hannah Jordan and Beth Byron.
Lillian Unger receives her Vineta Lodge scholarship from committee members. Pictured are, from left, Janelle Harshaw, Irene Kace, Lillian Unger and Beth Byron.
The Jordan and Unger families were on hand for the presentation of Vineta Lodge scholarships. The Jordan family is on the left. In the center is Elsie Krueger, grandmother of the recipients. On the right is the Unger family. This is a 100% Hermann Sons Life Family.
Vineta Lodge members celebrating birthdays in August were, from left, Lorene Kreusel, Lucille Stremmel, Gladys Garrett and Lillian Unger. member for 59 years. Hope to see lots of members at the anniversary celebration
on Sept. 7 for an evening of fellowship and fond memories. – Reporter
Vineta Lodge members are pictured with the school supplies they donated to the Children’s Shelter of San Antonio.
Longtime Vineta Lodge member passes away
Roselee H. Chaney
SAN ANTONIO – Roselee H. Chaney, a 64-year member of Vineta Lodge, passed away July 31. She was born on March 19, 1932, and lived in San Antonio her entire life. She is survived by four chil-
dren, Steve Chaney, Richard Chaney and wife Mandy, Deborah Clark and Donna Alsbury, five grandchildren, five greatgrandchildren, two nieces and four nephews. She enjoyed dancing, scrapbooking, bowling, cooking and
traveling. Roselee worked for Hermann Sons for many years and served as an officer for Vineta Lodge. She retired from USAA in 2005. The family would like to express its thanks for the love
and care she received at Hickory Oaks Assisted Living. Services were held at Wayside Chapel in San Antonio on Aug. 26. Memorial donations may be made to the San Antonio Food Bank.
Page 24 – Hermann Sons Life – September 2017
Dallas presents scholarship, will meet Sept. 24
DALLAS – Dallas Lodge’s next meeting will be held Sept. 24 at 1 p.m. All members are welcome to attend for the information and fellowship. The lodge’s scholarship recipient is Anna Huddleston. Anna graduated May 16 from Shawnee Mission East High School, Mission, Kansas. She received the Presidential Service Award and was a member of the Art Club. She says she has always wanted to be a nurse. She got started last summer completing clinicals for the certified
nurse assistant program and is now attending classes. This fall she will attend Johnson County Community College in Kansas City where she will study nursing. Her proud parents are Gayle Lynn and Kevin Huddleston. Welcomed as a new member in July was Bianca L. Swayne. Secretary/Treasurer Steve Schellenberg presented the sixmonth financial documents that had been audited by the Financial Trustee Committee of Eva Day and Clint and Terri Holmes. A proposal has been made to change the lodge officer qualifi-
cations in the bylaws to include the following: A member who is a felon is not eligible to be elected or appointed t an officer position and cannot be elected or appointed to the Home Association Board of Directors. The exception would be if the felony conviction was 20 years ago as of the current date. The proposal was discussed and read at the July meeting and will be read again at the Aug. 27 and Sept. 24 meetings. A vote will be taken after the last reading. Officers believe this proposal is
in the best interest of the lodge. Eva Day won the attendance prize finally. This was her first time to ever win. Andy Schellenberg shared an email he had received from Chris Dietel. He and wife Andrea have a new house. They reside in a remote area in east Kansas. Their careers are in veterinary pharmaceutical sales. Chris is a fourth generation member and was an active member. He keeps up with the lodge by reading the Hermann Sons Life newspaper. – Reporter
Anna Huddleston is the recipient of a Dallas Lodge scholarship this year.
Brenham welcomes new member BRENHAM – Brenham Lodge met July 14 and welcomed Ashlyn Brook Korth as a new member. Special Representative Gary Falkenberg spoke briefly. Jack and Betty Schramm celebrated their 46th anniversary in July. A moment of silence was observed in memory of Laura Winkelmann Jones and Glynn Earl Dryer. Thank you notes were read from the Washington County Little League, Berlin-Mill
Creek-Zionsville Volunteer Fire Department, Chappell Hill Volunteer Fire Department and Hospice Brenham for the donations they received from the Games Fund. The Cheer Committee mailed get-well cards to Gloria Hanath and Robert Wellmann. Sympathy cards were mailed to the family of Glynn Dryer including wife Marilyn, son Don Dryer, niece Ann Garnett and nephew Alan Dreyer; and to the family of Laura Winkelmann Jones including brother
John Winkelmann. Charlie Schroeder verbally thanked everyone for the cards and calls he received after the passing of his mother, Alvina Schroeder. A pork steak and sausage supper was held July 21 that included live music. President Jeanette Preuss thanked Nina Runge, Elaine Lorenz, Shirley Ganske and Evelyn Harmel for preparing the meal of sloppy Joes and tea. – Lena Mae Goessler
Celebrating birthdays at the July meeting of Brenham Lodge were Evelyn Haack and Gilbert Spinn.
Mission-Alamo holds annual July party
McGregor to meet Sept. 6
SAN ANTONIO – The outside temperature did not reflect the Christmas season but MissionAlamo Lodge had a great July Christmas party in spite of the heat. The gift exchange was a riot but everyone left with a treasured gift anyway. In honor of Independence Day everyone was sporting their red, white and blue attire and received a gift. The favorite part of the evening was, of course the hot dogs, sides and all the desserts. Welcomed as new junior members were Maci Lee Thompson and Hayden Gil Martinez. A moment of silence was observed in memory of Dolores Sue Yett. She passed away June
McGREGOR – McGregor Lodge will meet at 6 p.m. Sept. 6 at Charlie Griffin Center, 300 N. Johnston Dr. Spaghetti and salad and dessert will be served. Stew will be served at the Oct. 4 meeting. It begins at 6 p.m. at the same location. Members enjoyed Blue Bell ice cream, toppings and chocolate chip cookies at the Aug. 3 meeting. President Doris Mooney read correspondence from the Home Office concerning membership and a thank you note for the lodge’s donation to “Hugs From Home.” A thank you note was read from Camryn Thane who received a scholarship. Get well cards were sent to Betty Johnson, Joyce Thane,
Members of Mission-Alamo Lodge donned their patriotic attire for the Christmas in July meeting. 18 at the age of 66. She had been a member for 43 yeas. Get-well cards were sent to John Anello and Lillie Mae Dienger. Both are recovering from surgery. The big jackpot was not given away because Avery Bi-
asiolli and Fred Fanick were not present when their names were called. The split-the-pot winner was Dorothy Breezee. “Hugs from Home” received the other half. – Sylvia Schulmeier
Leona Hendrickson and Vivian and Henry Lange. Sympathy is extended to Doris Schwettmann Mooney and her family on the passing of their cousin, Earl Ray Schwettmann, from Fredericksburg. Congratulations to Laura Doverspike on her 60 years of membership. Sister Doverspike became a member on July 12, 1957. Congratulations also go to Natishua Brandt on her 50 years of membership. Sister Brandt became a member on Aug. 30, 1967. Members wished Yvonne Schmalriede a “Happy Birthday.” Lucky door prize winners were Yvonne Schmalriede and Doris Mooney. – Reporter
September 2017 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 25
Harmonia will honor past presidents on Sept. 14 SAN ANTONIO – Harmonia Lodge will honor its past presidents at the Sept. 14 meeting. The Food Committee will provide spaghetti. Members are asked to bring a dessert. The lodge honored its pioneer members and celebrated its 156th anniversary at the July 13 meeting. President and CEO Buddy Preuss was in attendance and presented 50-year membership pins to Matthew J. Kraus, a member since Sept. 15, 1967, and Harrison Hilt, a member since Aug. 10, 1967. He also presented 50-year pins to siblings Gary and Debra Hengst, the children of Raymond and Shirley Hengst. Gary is a member of Harmonia Lodge. Debra is a member of Helotes Lodge. Ray G. Ackerman, a member since Aug. 22, 1957, was unable to attend. He is receiving his 60year pin this year. President Preuss gave a short talk on what Harmonia Lodge means to Hermann Sons Life. It was the first lodge and is the third largest in the state. He said it serves as a “light and example to other lodges.” Brad Dietrich, co-chairman with Harry Werland of the annual golf tournament, announced that the tournament’s name has been changed to Tee It Up For a Cause.
Harmonia Lodge Vice President Matthew Kraus, center, receives his 50-year membership pin from President and CEO Buddy Preuss, left, and Mike Beam, president of the lodge and a member of the Hermann Sons Life Board of Directors. The tournament will now benefit not only Camp Discovery, a camp for children with cancer, but also The 100 Club of San Antonio. The 100 Club supports the families of law enforcement and fire department personnel who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for their community. The donation to Camp Discovery will not be decreased. The tournament will be held Sept. 30 at the Republic Golf Course in San Antonio. More information on the levels of sponsorship available and an entry
Stern Lodge will present award at October meeting SEGUIN – Stern Lodge will meet again Sunday, Oct. 1, at noon at the Seguin American Legion Hall. The September meeting has been cancelled. The lodge has selected Fran Altherr to receive the Humanitarian Award. The presentation will be made at the October meeting. Members were reminded the election of officers will be held in November and efforts are focused on selecting a new slate of officers. At the Sunday, Aug. 6, meeting, members and guests enjoyed a meal of fried chicken
and desserts. The charter was draped in memory of members Billie Jean Klein and Myrtle Naylor. The Home Office reports the lodge has exceeded its new member goal for 2017. Stern Lodge has 198 adult members and 51 junior members. July birthday celebrants were Donald and Barbara Morawietz and Gloria Reininger and celebrating in August were Liz Witten and Marvalee May. Attendance-prize winners were Marvalee May, Donald Morawietz and Ricky Engelke. – Reporter
form for the tournament are available in this issue of the Hermann Sons Life newspaper or by calling 210-892-0274. Members mourned the passing of Alvin Julius Zunker, age 89, on June 7; George C. Feldtman, age 92, on June 9; and Lawrence William Keller Jr., age 80, on June 11. John Hoog and Matt Kraus, who generously donated his back to the lodge, won the attendance prizes. Roger Buley won split-the-pot. Myrtle Witteman won the lady’s prize. – Reporter
Harrison Hilt, center, receives his 50-year membership pin from President and CEO Buddy Preuss, left, and Mike Beam, president of Harmonia Lodge and Hermann Sons Life Board of Directors member.
Gary and Debra Hengst received their 50-year membership at the July meeting of Harmonia Lodge. Pictured at the pin presentation are, from left, President and CEO Buddy Preuss, Gary and Debra Hengst, their parents Shirley and Raymond Hengst and lodge President Mike Beam, a Hermann Sons Life Board of Directors member.
Fredericksburg meets on Sept. 6 FREDERICKSBURG – Fredericksburg Lodge will meet Tuesday, Sept. 6. A social will be followed by a barbecue supper and business meeting. The lodge will furnish the barbecue. Members are asked to bring a side dish along with a plate and utensils. A sandwich supper was served before the Aug. 1 meeting. During the meeting, two new junior members were welcomed. They are Jaden Fiedler and Logan Fiedler. Welcomed by way of transfer was David Domsch.
Members were informed that the Hermann Sons Life float is being refurbished and will not be available for the Gillespie County Fair Parade. Scams are on the rise and senior citizens are often the targets. Examples include prize notifications and individuals calling to report that their company received alerts that were problems with the computer and wanting access and money to repair the problem President Hans Enderlin encouraged everyone to not give out personal information or send money. Door prizes were awarded
Celebrating birthdays at the August meeting of Fredericksburg were Stephen Weinheimer and Ollie Heimann. to Florence Terry and Melvin Staudt. – Reporter
Page 26 – Hermann Sons Life – September 2017
Kirby moves meeting to Sept. 11, honors Schulmeier KIRBY – Kirby Lodge will meet Monday, Sept. 11, instead of the usual first Monday because of the Labor Day holiday. The meal will be served at 7 p.m. The lodge will provide the meat. Members are asked to bring side dishes and desserts. The meeting will follow. Members enjoyed fried chicken and lots of side dishes at the August meeting. A special cake was served to celebrate the appointment of lodge Vice President Samantha Schulmeier to the position of Vice President of Operations and Chief Operating Officer for Hermann Sons Life and the appointment of lodge Financial Secretary/Treasurer Tammy Haecker to the Grand Lodge’s Community Engagement Committee. In observance of Make a Difference Day, members are being asked to make donations to the Fisher House at San Antonio
Military Medical Center. The Fisher House serves as a home away from home for the families of military personnel being treated at SAMMC. Community Coordinator/Agent Judy Schulmeier has lists of items needed at the Fisher House. Anyone wanting a list is asked to contact Sister Schulmeier at 210667-1938. Donations need to be dropped off at the lodge hall no later than the Oct. 2 meeting. All dancers who have donations are asked to bring them to the September parent meeting and give them to lodge Youth Coordinator Angela Netherton, who also serves as secretary of the Parents’ Club. Dance registration is in full swing. The deadline to register for dance is Oct. 1. If you have questions regarding the Kirby School of Dance call Sister Netherton 210-831-1293 Kirby Lodge will sponsor a co-
ed softball team to help HONOR 22 at its softball tournament. All money will go to help veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. The tournament will be held on Saturday, Sept. 23, at 8 a.m. at the Rusty Lions softball fields. The lodge will pay for the team entry. All players will need to have their own glove and purchase a $15 team shirt. There might be a few spots left on the team, so if you are a Kirby Lodge member and are interested, call Sister Netherton at 210-831-1293. The 2017 lodge scholarship has been presented to Morgan Wintermeier. Last year Morgan was the assistant teacher for the Kirby School of Dance. She will be attending Texas A&M in Kingsville. The women’s team the lodge entered in the Hermann Sons State Bowling Tournament finished in third place.
Thanks go to Terry Haecker who helped the Kirby Lodge bowling team at the Shannon Gaffney Bowl-A-Thon. The team was short a player and Terry stepped up to help out. Kirby Lodge is planning its anniversary dinner for the Oct. 2 meeting. All campers are invited to come and share their Camp stories, pictures and art. There also will be a memorial table set up. Any member wanting to honor their loved ones who have passed are welcome to bring a picture to place on the table. The meal will be catered. Everyone who plans to attend must make reservations by calling Tammy Haecker at 210-601-6802 no later than Monday, Sept. 11. Connor Hollman was welcomed as a new member. Members celebrating August birthdays were James McQuat-
ters, Bob Scheel and Leroy Muehlstein. Door prize winners were Carolina McQuatters, Linda Muehlstein and Lillian Brietzke Split-the-pot winners were Angela Netherton, Gabby McQuatters, Carol Eardley and James Lowak. The $25 attendance prize winner was Keary Lambrecht. Members send their condolences to the family of Kenneth Swan. The lodge has received a Gold Level Certificate for its Join Hands Day project benefitting HONOR 22. The lodge joined hands with Girl Scout Troop 164 and HONOR 22 for the event. Lodge schedules are available at every meeting. The lodge still has several fun events planned for the rest of the year and all members are welcome and encouraged to attend. – Reporter
New Braunfels to serve barbecue Sept. 3 NEW BRAUNFELS – New Braunfels Lodge will meet Sept. 3 at 3 p.m. at the lodge hall. Barbecue chicken will be provided and members are asked to bring side dishes. The lodge will provide ice cream. The New Braunfels School of Dance will hold a rummage sale on Sept. 23 at the lodge hall. The proceeds will go to the dance school. At the Aug. 6 meeting, the lodge welcomed 21 new junior members. A resolution of respect was read
in memory of Ryan Foerster and John Brown. The James and Leola Stolte family of 14 members that includes children and grandchildren is a 100% Hermann Sons Life Family. Member Tommy Daum has been appointed to the Grand Lodge Laws Committee. Attendance-prize winners were Virginia Vetter, Delbert Tanneberger, Jo Heideman, Lenora Mueller, Violet Tanneberger, Shirley Huebinger, Karen Harborth, Philipp Neff, Leola Stolte, James Stolte, Jerome Vetter and Jolene
Meuret. Members and guests enjoyed fried fish, side dishes provided by the members and ice cream for dessert. Tommy Daum and Ethan and Dorella Colbert hosted the meal. After the meeting, Myra Lee Goff gave a presentation about her book, “Around the Sophienburg,” that includes New Braunfels and Comal County. Assisting her were husband Glynn and daughter Karen Boyd and husband Ben. – Virginia Vetter
Celebrating birthdays at the August New Braunfels Lodge meeting were, from left, Jolene Meuret, Martha Tolle and Delbert Tanneberger.
New Bielau meets Sept. 25
Womack Lodge presents pioneer pins
WEIMAR – New Bielau Lodge will meet Sept. 25 at 6:30 p.m. at the New Bielau Community Center. The lodge will provide sandwiches and members are asked to bring a dessert and chips. At the July 24 meeting, the lodge welcomed two new members. They are Chloe Grace Dedman and Beth Ann Hough. Agent Mary K. Seifert talked
WOMACK – Womack Lodge will meet Sept. 3 at 5 p.m. A covered-dish meal will be served. All members are welcome and encouraged to bring their favorite dish. At the Aug. 6 meeting, a pin presentation was held. J.W. Thiele, a member since Feb. 18, 1957, was presented a 60-year membership pin and Emma Speer, a member since Dec. 16, 1947, a 70-year membership
about Camp and dance classes that will start soon. Several thank-you cards were read. Al Marshall and Dorothy Chevalier celebrated birthdays in July and Al and Arlene Marshall celebrated an anniversary in June. Everyone enjoyed ice cream and desserts after the meeting. – Harlene Novak
pin. Five other members who were unable to attend will also receive pins. Appreciation was expressed to Joe and Mary Sue Crawson for chairing the June 17 Fish Fry to benefit the Clifton Volunteer Fire Department. The Fish Fry was a success with about 450 residents attending the event at Womack Hall. Profits from the meal, plus $500 in Matching Funds from
the Home Office, totaled more than $5,600. Thanks go to all lodge members and members of the fire department for all their help with the event. James Dreyer was the attendance-prize winner and Monroe Gaskamp won the 50/50 drawing. Joe and Mary Sue Crawson hosted the evening meeting. – Nadine Rueter
September 2017 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 27
Fort Worth to meet Sept. 10 at Westcreek Lanes FORT WORTH – It is August and what a surprise to get all the nice rain and some cooler weather. Hoping everyone is enjoying their last days of summer and children are getting ready to start back to school. Fort Worth Lodge is happy to welcome new junior members Jaci Wallace and Kinslee Wallace. Amber, their mom, has been a member and attended Hermann Sons Life Camp. Parents are asked to send pictures and stories about your child going to Hermann Sons Life Camp this year. Please send to sandraj1966@yahoo.com for upcoming issues of the paper. All of the campers are invited to come to the September meeting and talk about their experience at Camp. One member of the lodge was a counselor-in-training and there were members who served as counselors. They also are invited to share their experiences at the September
Alexis Castor was a first-year camper this year. She is a member of Fort Worth Lodge.
These three boys go to school together and attended Hermann Sons Life Camp together this summer for the first time. They are, from left, Logan Papp, a member of Austin Lodge, and Nolan Rojas and Ty Gibson from Fort Worth Lodge.
Ellie Walters and Maci Minter went to Hermann Sons Life Camp together for the first time this summer. They are members of Fort Worth Lodge.
meeting. Congratulations are in order for Betty Ford and Otto Brauer who both reached their 60-year membership milestone on Aug. 25. Hope everyone enjoyed bowling in the 53rd Annual Hermann
Sons Life Statewide Bowling Tournament. Leagues are forming right now, so join a league so you can bowl next year. Sitting around the pool and visiting with members from other lodges is one of the highlights of the tournament.
The lodge’s next meeting is set for Sept. 10 at 3 p.m. at Westcreek Lanes. Come and help make plans for the Make a Difference Day project and the Christmas party. Red and Nancy Kelly celebrated their 34th wedding anniver-
sary in July. Happy Birthday wishes go to Jo Ann Bullock, Otto Brauer, Donnie Burns, Ronnie Burns, Ronnie Jones, Devon Kassler, Sharon Kassler, Ronnie Burns-Lane, Rick Murphy and Mary Terrell. – Reporter
Deanville Lodge to hold benefit dinner for Hospice DEANVILLE – Deanville Lodge will hold a dinner to benefit the Hospice of Brazos Valley on Sept. 10 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. A meal of roast beef and dessert will be served. Everyone is urged to help with this worthy cause. Meals can be eaten at the hall or taken home. The lodge expresses its appreciation to everyone who helped make the Fourth of July celebration and fund-raiser a success. The profits will be used to improve the lodge hall. An appreciation meal was enjoyed
at the hall on Sunday, July 30. It was the lodge’s way of saying thank you for all the hard work and support. At the July meeting, members stood for a moment of silence in memory of Lydie Supak and Vivian Schumacher. Sympathy is extended to their families. Get-well cards were sent to Viola Bartek, Mae Dell Cowan, Tammy Jones, Franklin Beran, Marsha Kocurek, Blake Kocurek, Eddie and Teresa Koehler, Cameron Wiederhold, John Laffere and Mildred McLemore. Sympathy cards were sent to Walter Schumacher and
Dwayne and Vicky Beran. Birthday cards were sent to Mildred McLemore, Cindy Zwerneman, Hattie Christiansen and Mildred Miman. Thanks go to the Kreneks for the June prizes, to the Jones’ for the July prizes and Lil Faust for August prizes. A check was presented to the Deanville Volunteer Fire Department in appreciation for use of its facilities during National Night Out. Meetings are held every last Sunday of the month at 2 p.m. – Reporter
Everyone who helped with the Deanville Lodge Fourth of July celebration was treated to an appreciation meal on July 30.
Paige Lodge plans sandwich potluck meal for Sept. 10 PAIGE – Paige Lodge will meet Sept. 10 at 12:30 p.m. A sandwich potluck meal will be served prior to the meeting. Members and guests enjoyed a grilled hamburger lunch prior to the July 9 meeting. Special thanks go to Ronnie Harmon for the outstanding grilling job and
to everyone who brought sides and desserts. Members welcomed Special Representative Gary Falkenberg and wife Doris. Brother Falkenberg spoke briefly. Bernice Basward reported a sympathy card had been sent to the Carl Brown family.
President Chelle Dube read a thank-you note from the Home Office for the donation made in memory of Carl Brown. Milton Ihlo proudly reported his granddaughter, Holly Herber, attended Camp this summer. Registration for the Elgin
School of Dance is under way online. Classes will start in early September. Gary Falkenberg won the attendance prize and Linda Ihlo won the dollar pot. Ethel Kunkel and La Verne Mattiza won Hermann Sons tote bags donated by Brother Falkenberg.
Doris Falkenberg won a koozie and toothpick holder courtesy of the Nitsche Group and donated by Birgette Burttschell. Details of the upcoming chili supper in early November benefitting the Loblolly 4-H Club will be provided in the next article. – Sandy Botkin
Page 28 – Hermann Sons Life – September 2017
Austin to serve pizza, salad at Sept. 10 meeting AUSTIN – Austin Lodge will meet on the second Sunday in September instead of the first Sunday because of the Labor Day holiday. The lodge will furnish the pizza and salad for the Sept. 10 meeting and meal. Members are asked to bring desserts. The lodge met Sunday, Aug. 7, and heard reports from Emma Spradling and Emily Lindsey about their time at Hermann Sons Life Camp. They both said they had a wonderful time. President Ed Kurtz introduced Chair of the Board Sandra Jones and her husband, Sam. She gave a report on the Grief Support Camp held this summer. The session was a great success and plans are to continue to hold the session every summer. The Cheer Committee reported sending a get-well card to Marty Stanfield. He had been hospitalized after being bitten by a spider. Buster Schaefer reported on the Statewide Bowling Tournament that was held in Austin the last weekend in July and first weekend in August. The turnout was good both weekends and everyone had a good time. Thanks go to all who helped with the tournament. “Happy Birthday” was sung to Edna Groeschel, Maurice Maluschka and Ed Kurtz. Buster Schaefer won the attendance prize and Howard
Emily Lindsey, left, and Emma Spradling talked about their experiences at Hermann Sons Life Camp when they spoke at the August Austin Lodge meeting.
Celebrating August birthdays at the Austin Lodge meeting were, from left, Edna Groeschel, lodge President Ed Kurtz and Maurice Maluschka.
Preparing and serving the meal for the Austin Lodge meeting in August were, from left, Youth Coordinator Katrina Spradling, Emma Spradling, Jordan Nelson, Emily Lindsey and Community Coordinator Kimberly Lindsey.
Enjoying the Austin Lodge meeting in August are, from left, Sam Jones, Chair of the Board Sandra Jones, lodge President Ed Kurtz and Buster and Leona Schaefer.
Anderson won the kitty. Mary Shugart won the door prize donated by Elo Toll.
members. Thanks go to Emma Spradling, Emily Lindsey, Jordan Nelson and parents Kim-
After the meeting, everyone enjoyed hot dogs and the trimmings prepared by the junior
Bexar plans Halloween party for Oct. 22 SAN ANTONIO – Bexar Lodge will host a Halloween party Oct. 22 at MacArthur Park from 2-6 p.m. More details to come. The next meeting will be held Nov. 6. Four new members were welcomed at the Aug. 6 meeting held at the Wehmeyer home. They are Carmen Kay Schulz, Alaina Schulz, Calvert Torres and Chloe Turcotte. Beverly Hutzler was named the Humanitarian Award recipient for 2017. A letter was received from Saint Vincent DePaul thanking
Celebrating recent birthdays from Bexar Lodge were, from left, David Hadley and Larry and Linda Wehmeyer. the lodge for its donation of 19 bags of groceries in observance of Join Hands Day.
David Hadley won the attendance prize. – Reporter
berly and Billy Lindsey and Katrina Spradling for the food. – Betty Kurtz
Ellinger Lodge to meet Sept. 18 at fire station ELLINGER – Ellinger Lodge will meet Sept. 18 at 6 p.m. at the Ellinger Fire Station. At the July 17 meeting, Agent Judy Schulmeier spoke briefly. A sympathy card was signed by those present to be sent to Sherry Noak following the passing of her husband, Wayne Noak. The Christmas social will be held Dec. 9. It will begin at 4 p.m. at the Ellinger Community Center. The meal will be
served at 5 p.m. More details will be announced at the September meeting. “Happy Birthday” was sung to James Krenek who celebrated in July and to Jerry Krenek who celebrated in August. Jerry Krenek won the attendance prize and Irvin Schulmeier won the drawing. Others won door prizes. Before the meeting, everyone enjoyed a meal of sandwiches, chips, cake and drinks. – Reporter
September 2017 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 29
Gay Hill Lodge plans fish fry fund-raiser GAY HILL – Gay Hill Lodge met Aug. 3. Members enjoyed a dinner of beef tips with rice and all the trimmings prepared by Robert and Shonda Ziese, Karley Lorenz and George and Walline Lorenz.
A fish fry fund-raiser was scheduled for Friday, Aug. 25. The previous fund-raiser, a sirloin steak supper, was a success. Marvin and Mae Fischer will host the September meeting. – Reporter
Moulton members ride in local parade Riders on the float Moulton Lodge entered in the local parade were, from left, Greyson, Judson, Jillian and Barbara Anderle, Lindsay, Amanda and Dylan Orsak, Lilly Vrana, Hunter Anderle and Amelia, Emma and Julianna Buehring.
The hosts for the August Gay Hill Lodge meeting were, from left, Robert and Shonda Ziese, Karley Lorenz and Walline and George Lorenz. Walline and George also celebrated their anniversary in August.
Justin and Jamie Anderle from Moulton Lodge celebrated their anniversary in July. Right- Moulton Lodge members celebrating July birthdays were, from left, Barbara Anderle, Amanda and Lindsay Orsak and Gladys Seifert.
Giddings Lodge presents donations GIDDINGS – Giddings Lodge held the July meeting at Los Patrones Restaurant. Special Representative Gary Falkenberg and wife Doris were in attendance. A get-well card was sent to Jean Herzik, Sandra Geisler and Irene Noack. Donations were sent to the
Retirement Home in memory for Gladys Jaeger, Elward Schumann and Kervin Reuter. A $100 donation was made to First Assembly of God for its back-to-school giveaway. The church provided backpacks, school supplies and haircuts to children returning to school. A thank-you note was re-
ceived from the High Plains Division of the American Cancer Society for the donations to Relay for Life. Door prize winners were Johnny Herzik, Olivia Mize and Arthur Urban. The next meeting was scheduled for Aug. 10. – Reporter
Laubach picnic Sept. 10 at Red Barn SEGUIN – Laubach Lodge will hold the annual picnic at the Red Barn Sept. 10. The lodge will provide hamburgers, the trimmings and desserts. Members are invited to come and have some fun. At the June meeting, spaghetti
with meatballs, side dishes and desserts were served. Gloria Boenig gave a report on the lap robes to be given to a nursing home in observance of Join Hands Day. Everyone enjoyed the po-
ems Virgil Vogel, Gloria Boenig, Deanne Engelke read for Mother’s and Father’s Day. Virgil Vogel volunteered to place the flags at the Red Barn on special days. – Reporter
Celebrating birthdays at the August Gay Hill Lodge meeting were, from left, Linda Bentke, Lucille Kelm, Stanley Klekar and Karley Lorenz.
Helotes will meet Sept. 12 HELOTES – Braun Hall is hiring! Helotes Lodge is looking for a duo/team to manage Braun Hall on a part-time flexible schedule. Duties will include but are not limited to scheduling events, maintaining inventory and general upkeep of the hall. Email your resumes to heloteslodge@ gmail.com. Applicants must pass a background check. The next lodge meeting will be held Tuesday, Sept. 12, at 7 p.m. at Grady’s BBQ, 7400 Bandera Rd. The lodge will pay the cost
of the meal for Helotes Lodge members. Attendees must text or call (leave a message) Rebecca Henley at 210-723-8939 no later than Sunday, Sept. 10, to make a reservation. During the meeting, plans will be made for the Make a Difference Day project. The lodge will be providing lunch for Habitat for Humanity volunteers. Five $20 door prizes will be awarded during the meeting. – Letty Fragoso
Page 30 – Hermann Sons Life – September 2017
Pershing Lodge plans trip to Port Aransas Sept. 22 SAN ANTONIO – Pershing Lodge will meet Sept 6 at 7 p.m. in the meeting room of the Home Association Building. Members are asked to bring a potluck dish and dessert. Landri Emma Nickel was welcomed as a new member at the August meeting. Prayers are needed for Jeanelle Tabor and Carrie Burnett. Terri Armstrong reported that members and friends will be going to Port Aransas on Sept. 22. For more information contact her at 210-378-0319. Joseph David Curry and Madisen Denise Curry, the Godchildren of Janilla Kilborn, were winners of the Camp scholarship drawing. Thanks go to everyone who helped with the Memorial Service. Sharon Mainz won the $25 attendance prize. Beth Warne won the split-thepot drawing. Eight names were drawn for
Pershing Lodge conducted its annual Memorial Service during the August meeting. the August Progressive Pot worth $130. But James M. Davenport, Jim E. Armstrong, Judith A. Osberg, Virginia C. Abernathy, Nicholas P. Ahrens, Bradly A. Frerich, Jason Anthony Mele and Perry Dan Barth were not present to claim the winnings. Hope to see everyone at the September meeting. – Reporter
Paul Vogt meets on Sept. 5 BOERNE – Paul Vogt Lodge will meet Sept. 5 at 7 p.m. A potluck meal will be served prior to the meeting. The lodge joined Comfort, Kerrville, Boerne and Prinz Solms lodges for a new member picnic on Saturday, Aug. 12. The event was held at Hilltop Camp. Lunch included sandwiches,
chips and desserts. Many cooled off in the pool while others played in the bounce house under a huge oak tree. There were other games available outdoors while some of the adults played dominoes and cards. – Pamela Poulk
Maxwell to present award MAXWELL – Maxwell Lodge will meet Sunday, Oct. 1, at 3 p.m. at the Maxwell Social Club. The Humanitarian Award will be presented, membership pins will be presented and stew is on the menu. The November meeting is set for Sunday, Nov. 5, at the Maxwell Social Club. The December meeting will be held Sunday, Dec. 10. The dancers from the Luling School of Dance will perform. At the Aug. 6 meeting, it was reported long-time members Richard Pruitt, 94, and Berniece
Celebrating anniversaries at the August Pershing Lodge meeting were, from left, David and Teenie Johnson, five years; and Emil and Joan Lichtenberg, 67 years.
Randow, 93, had passed away. A donation will be sent to the Retirement Home in their memory. Darlene Bohmfalk’s father also passed away. Door prize winners were Charles and Elsie Croley. Sandwiches from Jason’s Deli were served. Members are asked to mark their calendars for the upcoming meetings and watch for more information in future issues of the Hermann Sons Life newspaper. – C. Blackard
James Lay celebrates his birthday in August. He is a member of Pershing Lodge.
Celebrating birthdays at the Pershing Lodge meeting in August were, from left, Teenie Johnson, Wayne Kilborn and Marilyn Hoster.
Coupland plans bake sale, family night COUPLAND – Coupland Lodge members are reminded of three events coming up in September and October. On Saturday, Sept. 9, the lodge will sponsor a bake sale benefitting the Coupland Volunteer Fire Department. The bake sale will begin at 8 a.m. at two locations, the Coupland Fire Station and the Stock Up Food Mart on Hwy. 95 in Coupland. This is the lodge’s Matching Funds event and Make a Difference Day project. The Home Office will provide match-
ing funds of up to $500. The fire department will use the money for equipment training. Anyone who would like to donate baked goods, help on the day of the sale or make a monetary donation is asked to call Lena Ging at 512-468-0072 or Glenn Krieg at 512-924-1466. The next day, Sunday, Sept. 10, the lodge will meet at 2 p.m. at the Fire Station. After a brief meeting, members will enjoy refreshments and fellowship.
Then on Tuesday, Oct. 10, the lodge will hold its annual Family Night. Members will gather at Southside Market and BBQ in Elgin at 6 p.m. The meal will be served shortly after 6 p.m. The restaurant is located at 1212 Hwy. 290. All members are invited to attend. Reservations need to be made no later than Oct. 6 by calling Glenn Krieg or Lena Ging at the numbers listed above. – Reporter
Kerrville Lodge will meet again Oct. 4 KERRVILLE – Kerrville Lodge met Wednesday, Aug. 2, at the Acapulco Restaurant in Kerrville. The only item of business was approval of the financial report so it could be submitted before the deadline.
The next meeting is set for Oct. 4 in the Wells Fargo Bank Community Room. Final plans for the Christmas party will be made. Bring your ideas for door prizes and food for the potluck meal.
The bank is located at 301 Junction Highway in Kerrville. All members are welcome and encouraged to attend. The Christmas party is planned for Dec. 8 at Buzzies BBQ. – Juanice Grona
September 2017 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 31
Lil Pfefferkorn celebrated her birthday in August. She is a member of Lockhart Lodge.
Door prize winners at the August Lockhart Lodge meeting were, from left, Ann Schroeder, Janet Schaefer, Joyce Buckner and Lil Pfefferkorn.
Celebrating anniversaries in August from Lockhart Lodge were, from left, Ray and Debbie Pfefferkorn, 34 years; and Joyce and John Buckner, 23 years.
LOCKHART – Lockhart Lodge will meet again on Sunday, Oct. 1, at 6 p.m. in the Chisholm Trail Barbecue Room. The lodge will not meet in September. One new member was welcomed at the Aug. 6 meeting. She is Anna Adele Pfefferkorn who was born April 27 to Alex
and Erin Pfefferkorn of College Station. She is the granddaughter of Ray and Debbie Pfefferkorn and the great-granddaughter of Dorothy Buckner and Lil Pfefferkorn. A moment of silence was observed in memory of Verona Harmon and Emily Garcia. Agent Janice Kuhen talked
shelves for his church. This project gave him credit toward his Eagle Scout award. A Make a Difference Day activity was discussed. Members voted to provide cookies and lemonade for the “Raising of the Wall Ceremony” on Sept. 9 for the third Habitat for Humanity home to be construct-
Lockhart to contribute to ‘Raising of the Wall’ about the importance of recruiting new members. She reminded members that anyone who recommends someone who becomes a new member is eligible for the $100 drawing held each month. A thank you note was read from William Hyland for the donation he used to help build
ed in Caldwell County. Carol Schuelke and Nancy Hess will oversee the project with the lodge donating $150. Joyce Buckner will supply water and ice. Members voted to donate $50 to the Retirement Home Christmas party. – Reporter
Schulenburg Lodge presents scholarship
Bandera County welcomes new member
Bandera County Lodge welcomed a new member at the July 12 meeting. The meeting was held at the home of Gary and Kathleen Reile. Also in attendance were Lee Fields, Eileen and Paul Heath, Susan and Ken Hillje, Pam Biering and Sandy Trenkelbach, who won the door prize.
Macdona to honor pioneers ATASCOSA – Macdona Lodge will honor two 50-year members at the Sept. 14 meeting. The meeting will begin at 6:30 p.m. at Our Lady Queen of Heaven Parish Hall, 11150 Macdona Lacoste Rd., in Atascosa. All members are welcome and encouraged to attend as Kathy Cruthers Thomas and Ruth Ann Espinoza receive their 50-year membership pins. The lodge will be serving sum-
mer salads, pasta and meat deli trays. Members are asked to bring a covered dish or dessert to compliment the meal. Games will be played. And there will be the progressive door prize drawing. You must be present to win if your name is drawn. For more information, contact Eulla Krueger at 830-985-3643 or Kathy Thomas at 210-426-5817. – Reporter
SCHULENBURG – Fried fish is on the menu for the Sept. 13 meeting of Schulenburg Lodge. The meal will include macaroni and cheese and cole slaw. The dinner and meeting will begin at 7 p.m. at the Schulenburg Community Center. The August meeting started with a moment of silence in memory of Calvin Dieringer. Kaleigh Blaschke received her scholarship check and spoke about the joys of dance class and how she will further her education. Welcomed as new members were Audrie Jasek, Korbin Parton and Adriana Leihardt. Get-well cards were sent to
Kaleigh Blaschke talked about her plans for the future when she accepted her scholarship check at the August meeting of Schulenburg Lodge.
Verdell Hafer and Dorman Michaelsen celebrated their birthdays in August. They are members of Schulenburg Lodge.
Kitty Dittrich and Ed Moeller. As of the date of the meeting, 115 children were enrolled in the Schulenburg School of Dance.
Dorman Michaelsen won the $10 gift card to Arlan’s and Dorothy Ellebracht won the Hermann Sons Life bag. – Junette Rodecap
Plum to serve burgers at Sept. 11 meeting PLUM – Plum Lodge will meet Sept. 11 at 6 p.m. Hamburgers will be served and members are asked to bring desserts. The July 10 meeting was held at the La Marina Restaurant in La Grange. President Wilbert Hoffmann appointed Gloria Raschke,
Linda Poncik and Verlene Hobratschk to the Humanitarian Award Committee. The lodge earned recognition by receiving the Black Level Certificate for donating money to the Meals on Wheels Program in observance of Join Hands Day.
Members were saddened to learn of the passing of Jack Sabrsula who was a member of the lodge for 47 years. Door prize winners were Wallace Hobratschk, Charleen Koopmann, Weldon Meinen and Eugene Wessels. – Reporter
Page 32 – Hermann Sons Life – September 2017
Comfort Lodge plans family barbecue for Sept. 10 COMFORT – Comfort Lodge will hold its annual Family Barbecue and Pin Presentation at Hilltop Camp on Sunday, Sept. 10. The social will begin at 3 p.m. and pin presentations for 50-year, 60-year and 70-year members will begin at 5:15 p.m. Following the presentations a meal catered by Bill Miller BBQ will be served. Reservations should be made by text or phone call to Norma Bruns at 210-912-7511 or leave her a message at home at 830995-3980. A timely reservation will assure your meal ticket. The lodge will meet Monday, Oct. 9, at the VFW Hall in Comfort. The social will begin at 5 p.m. and Tiny Trick-or-Treat will begin at 5:45 p.m. Children are welcome to come dressed in costume and they will trick-or-
Several grandparents and their grandchildren were present for the August meeting of Comfort Lodge. They included, from left, Aiden Ranney, Melissa Preuss, Bailey Preuss, Buddy and Elizabeth Preuss, Carolyn Spenrath and Makayla Aldrich. treat around the room. Members should bring about 15 treats for the children. There will be awards for best-dressed children and adults. Members also are asked to bring a potluck dish for
Round Top makes donation to local teachers for new year ROUND TOP – Round Top Lodge members approved a donation to Round Top-Carmine teachers at the July 27 meeting. The money will be used to help the teachers start the new school year. The meeting was held at the American Legion Hall. Reports were heard from Mary Rauch, Ted Stardig and Wanda Borgstedt. President Linda Mattocks reported that grandson Karson attended Hermann Sons Life Camp this year. Linda Mattocks, Orville Glaesmann, Jeanette Schoenst and Jocie and Floyd Braun won attendance prizes. Edna and Leonard Meinkowsky won door prizes and passed Karson Zoch, age 10, is pictured with his father, Kevin Zoch, at Hilltop Camp. This was Karson’s second year at Camp. Both are members of Round Top Lodge.
Floyd Braun celebrated his birthday at the July meeting of Round Top Lodge. them to Jim Mattocks and Ted Stardig. Refreshments, lunch and fellowship were enjoyed after the meeting. The next meeting was scheduled for Aug. 24. – Reporter
the meal. Grandparents were recognized at the Aug. 14 meeting also held at the VFW Hall. Members enjoyed a hamburger supper. The lodge participated in
Comfort Lodge members celebrating a birthday in August were Rosie Franklin, Jean Burrow and, not pictured, Tammy Aldrich. a new member event held at Hilltop Camp on Saturday, Aug. 12. Other lodges participating in the event were Prinz Solms, Kerrville, Boerne and Paul Vogt. There were more than 60 mem-
bers present. For the most up-to-date and latest news for Comfort Lodge go to Facebook and search for Hermann Sons Life Comfort. – Reporter
Anton Wenzel’s taco dinner Sept. 15 Tickets available now, volunteers, donations needed SAN ANTONIO – Anton Wenzel Lodge will serve spaghetti and meatballs at the September meeting. Members are asked to bring a covered dish or dessert. Pizza was served at the Aug. 1 meeting. The lodge extends its condolences to the family of Payton Ahr. Brother Ahr was a member for 60 years. Mark your calendars for the Annual Crispy Chicken Taco Dinner. It will be held Sept. 15. Tickets are now available. The lodge is seeking monetary donations for the sale. Thanks go to those who have already donated. Also, don’t forget to sign up on the volunteer sheet if you would like to lend a hand. Call the office at 210-815-3468 for tickets and more information. The name drawn for this month’s membership prize was that of Jesserey Huerta. She was not there to claim the cash so her name is back in the barrel. – Salina Barrientes
Celebrating July and August birthdays at the Anton Wenzel Lodge meeting were, from left, Edward Elizondo, Lorene Kreusel, Eugene Kellner and Alfred Kreusel. Also pictured is the anniversary couple, Julie and Mike O’Dowd.
Paula Reid, left, receives her splitthe-pot winnings from Lorene Kreusel during the August Anton Wenzel Lodge meeting.
September 2017 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 33
Corpus Christi Lodge to meet Sept. 4
Louise Schuetze pioneer 103! Alice Naughton is a young 103 years old. Sister Naughton celebrated her big day on July 9 with family and friends and a birthday cake. She is a member of Louise Schuetze Lodge. The lodge’s next gathering will be Monday, Sept. 11, at 7 p.m. when lodge sisters will celebrate its 121st anniversary. Members are asked to bring salads of all kinds and desserts. The theme will be red, white and blue.
Corpus Christi Lodge hosted a new member party Aug. 5 at Hilltop Community Center.
Corpus Christi Lodge President Frank Brandon lets David Garcia pick a door prize ticket during the Corpus Christi Lodge new member event.
La Coste presents 75-year pin Alvin Santleben recently received his 75-year membership pin from Vice President of Member Benefits Kim Krueger. Brother Santleben is a member of La Coste Lodge. He has been a member since Nov. 8, 1942.
DaCosta to host fund-raiser DACOSTA – The DaCosta Lodge Hall will be the location for the Crossroads Autism Network’s “Rockin’ the Blues for Autism” fund-raiser on Saturday, Sept. 23. The doors will open at 6:30 p.m. A catered meal will be served at 7 p.m. The live auction will begin at 8 p.m. Live music starts at 8:30 p.m. including Dr. Yhiagi and The Mended Hearts and Legal Limit Band. Drawings and a costume contest will be held at 10 p.m. There will be door prizes, photo fun and more.
Everyone is encouraged to wear their best Blues Brothers attire. Tickets are $20 and include the meal and entertainment. Western dances will be held at the hall Sept. 16 with music by Charles and the Fab 4, Oct. 14 with music by Nathan C. Young and Nov. 18 with music by The Nightriders. DaCosta Lodge’s next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 10, at 6 p.m. and will include officer elections. All members are welcome and encouraged to attend. – Sayra Martinka
CORPUS CHRISTI – Corpus Christi Lodge will hold a business meeting Sept. 4 at Bill Miller’s Bar-B-Q on Leopard Street beginning at 6:30 p.m. The lodge held a new member party on Aug. 5 at Hilltop Community Center with a lot of games, good food and great company. Richard Roberson was a surprise guest. Celebrating birthdays in August were Ray Garcia, Megan Hunt, Richard Roberson, Joel Mcpheeters, Robert Gonzalez, Goldie Beal and Sara Blankenship! – Brittny Mcpheeters
Ray Garcia helps Urijah Cruz and Hunter Dewayne with the bean bag toss game during the Corpus Christi Lodge new member event.
Kiersten Hunt was the winner of the 50-50 drawing during the Corpus Christi Lodge new member event.
Cuero welcomes three new members in August CUERO – Cuero Lodge will meet Sept. 5 at Santi’s at 6 p.m. At the Aug. 1 meeting held at Santi’s, three new members were welcomed. They are Brooklyn DeLosSantos, Roy Kuester and Mercedez Oneal. It was reported the John Sample received his 50-year membership pin. He has been a member since July 5, 1967. Sixty-year pins went to Ronald Binz, a member since July 12, 1957, and Dwight Binz, a member since Aug. 7, 1957. A 70-year pin went to Charlice Finck, a member since Aug. 5, 1947. Members were reminded a special pin presentation will be held at the Sep-
tember meeting. A dance was held Aug. 12 at the VFW Hall. It was open to the public and donations received will benefit “Hugs from Home.” Members celebrating birthdays were Wayne Tiffin, Ann Carpenter, Ruth Peters, Anthony Hotz, Willa Dean Wolter and Lawrence Hotz. Thanks go to Willa Dean Wolter, Helen Lempa and Gloria Suggs for providing desserts. Door prize winners were Kaylie Hotz, Gloria Suggs, Helen Lempa, Holly Peters and Gary Hotz. Following the meeting, dinner was served. – June Guenther
Page 34 – Hermann Sons Life – September 2017
Rosenberg-Richmond will serve sausage Oct. 9 ROSENBERG – RosenbergRichmond Lodge will meet Oct. 9. Sausage and sauerkraut are on the menu. Members are asked to bring a dessert. The lodge met Aug. 14 at the Rosenberg Civic Center. Loyce Anderson and Marjorie Orsak were in charge of serving the ice cream. Margie Krenek gave the blessing. Carrie Lynn Wrobliski was welcomed as a new member. Membership Coordinator Rosalie Byrd reported get-well cards were sent to Marjorie Engelhardt and Melvin Blahuta. Max Frels gave a report about attending Hermann Sons Life Camp. He said his favorite activity was climbing. Members played games after the meeting. – Reporter
Members of Rosenberg-Richmond Lodge who celebrated birthdays in July and August included, from left, Tom Atkins, Lynette Atkins, Janie Sitka, Shirley Pavlock, Annie Zak, Barbara Schmidt, Katie Schmidt-Pena, Ray Lehmann and Barbie Benton. Junior members of Rosenberg-Richmond Lodge lead the Pledge of Allegiance at the August meeting. They are, from left, William Benton, Maxwell Frels, Greyson Frels, Catherine Benton, Jonathan Vickery, Katie Schmidt-Pena and Alex Schmidt.
Siemering to play ‘loteria’ in September SAN ANTONIO – Siemering Lodge members will learn to play “loteria,” a Mexican form of bingo, at the September meeting. Members are asked to wear their favorite school colors or shirts to the meeting. A Nominating Committee will be selected for the October election of the Home Association board members. President Ana Vasquez will prepare the Mexican food dinner. The annual Memorial Service was part of the August meeting. Members shared information about whom they were named after, along with where their names originated. Members were encouraged the recommend new members and to invite new members to meetings. Sally Hertzberg and Augusta Fite served a fun picnic dinner. – Reporter
Celebrating birthdays at the August Siemering Lodge meeting were, from left, Augusta Fite, Sally Hertzberg and Elizabeth Markell.
Celebrating July and August anniversaries from Rosenberg-Richmond Lodge were, from left, Malcolm and Elaine Krause, Barbara and W. Lee Schmidt, LaVerne and Otto Tiemann and Annie and Johnnie Zak.
Bernardo will meet Sept. 20 Ronald Bara lights the candles during the Memorial Service hosted by Siemering Lodge in August.
BERNARDO – Bernardo Lodge will meet Sept. 20 at 7 p.m. in the Bernardo Volunteer Fire Department meeting room. Members are asked to bring food for the potluck meal. The lodge met Aug. 16 and welcomed Josh Zapalac as a new member. This make the Zapalac family a 100% Hermann Sons Life Family.
Agents Terrel and Robin Maertz will be attending the continuing education workshop in Comfort Oct. 5-7. President Terrel Maertz read the Certificate of Achievement the lodge had received in recognition of its donation to the food bank in Columbus in observance of Join Hands Day. – Reporter
You can read your Hermann Sons Life newspaper online at hermannsonslife.org/newspaper!
September 2017 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 35
Agents Directory (alphabetized by area) Abilene Diane Marie Smith 325-665-2253 Adkins Alayna Menzer 210-413-0001 Roxy Pruski 210-667-1995 Austin Shirley Kuhen Faske 512-789-3975 Crystal Livingston 512-466-2433 Bandera Stephanie Brown 210-621-3891 Paul Heath, FIC 210-392-0760
Cibolo/Schertz Tracy Campos 210-860-6675 Judith Schulmeier, FIC 210-667-1938 Comfort Norma Bruns, FIC 830-995-3980 Betty H. Murphy 830-998-0860 Corpus Christi Frank Brandon 361-241-5593 Pearl Hunt 361-241-0940 Troylyn Sisneros-Gonzalez 361-232-7413
George West Tracy Caron 361-449-0348 Georgetown Brad Klein, FIC 512-497-0678 Giddings Loretta Chilek, FIC 979-542-2806 Linda Kieschnick, FIC 979-542-5224 Richard Symons 979-451-0988 Gonzales Bobbie Polasek 830-672-6317 Greg Polasek 830-540-4812
Bellville Robert Herridge 979-865-3222
Cuero Laura Tiffin Wayne Tiffin 361-275-8421
Bernardo/Columbus Robin Maertz 979-732-1687
Dallas Helen Tyson Brown 214-796-0668
Hondo Stacy Saathoff 830-444-9160
Terrel Maertz 979-732-1727
Del Rio Pat Fritz, FIC 432-292-4483
Houston Anna Larie Keith 281-259-6337
Devine Cynthia Sultenfuss 210-219-6409
Sarah Spencer 361-550-1883
Boerne/Fair Oaks Carl Behrendt 210-422-1159 Pam Poulk 210-753-2626 Boerne Lisa Rozacky 210-838-3306 Marilyn Vogt, FICF 210-630-9874 Bryan Katherine Akin, FIC 979-823-8625 Caldwell Donnie Blinka 979-596-1309 Canyon Lake Sandra Duncan 830-905-3233 Castroville/La Coste Roger Bippert 210-737-4070 Castroville Glenford Boehme, FIC 210-219-9792
Edna/Jackson County Sam Matlock 361-782-3206 El Campo Dennis Wigginton 832-278-9636 Floresville/Poth Beth Cutsinger 210-325-6667 Floresville Lynn Wiede 830-393-4660
Graham/Wichita Falls David Wolf 940-550-5202
Gerald Ziemnicki 713-622-9001 Jourdanton Valerie M. Vick 210-748-5598 Katrina Wiatrek 210-326-9505 Karnes City Abigail Fenner 830-534-6982 Russell Swize 830-780-4053
Fort Worth Sandra Jones, FIC 817-295-2666
Kerrville Mary Muehlstein 830-896-5750
Fredericksburg Todd Bierschwale 830-997-2130
Kirby Angela Netherton 210-831-1293
Dennis Henke 830-997-5290
La Coste Tanya Crisp 830-985-9230
A list of agents also is available online at www.hermannsonslife.org
La Vernia Sharon Tanneberger, FIC 210-827-0526 Marlin Tanneberger, FIC 210-827-7229 Lubbock April Behnke 806-797-3585 Marion Lorene Bielke, FIC 830-420-2380 Maxwell Charles Croley 512-357-6638 Needville Melissa Kostelnik 713-304-1692
Marketing Department Staff
210-527-9113 • 877-437-6266 • 888-839-7667 Grand Vice President-Marketing Tim Kolbe timk@hermannsonslife.org Marketing Analyst Ana Vasquez, FLMI, AIRC, FIC anav@hermannsonslife.org Administrative Assistant Gladys Rowley gladysr@hermannsonslife.org Special Representatives: Dan Boenig - 210-705-1815 danb@texashermannsonslife.org Gary Falkenberg, FICF - 713-466-6069 • 713-899-4138 gfalken908@aol.com Alfred Stryk, FICF, LUTCF - 281-485-4095 alstryk@sbcglobal.net Teresa Saathoff - 210-276-0361 • 210-422-6996 teresaasaathoff@gmail.com Eulla May Krueger - 210-863-0546 • 830-985-3643 eullak@hermannsonslife.org
Chris Stoeltje 979-559-6127
Rowena Kay F. Halfmann 325-442-4731
Seguin/San Antonio Carol Krauss, FIC 210-725-4106
New Braunfels Becki Carley 361-550-9358
San Antonio Philip A. Abell 210-771-1213
Seguin Yolanda Gonzales 830-305-7445
Shirley Huebinger 830-822-1942
Ruth Bailey 210-602-5147
Annette D. Roecker 830-832-0724
Tim Salge 830-625-4816
John Hoog 210-226-8801
Tina B. Ynfante 210-859-1973
Nixon-Smiley Blake Janicek 830-582-1581
Darlene Irwin 210-392-2649
Diane Terp 830-305-3564
Rayna Sue Irwin 210-710-7038
Smiley Diana P. Moreno 830-379-2244
Orange Grove Paula Gebert 361-384-2375 Paige RaChelle Dube 512-740-3518 Pflugerville Julius Dubcak 512-272-8393 Port Lavaca Nancy Annette Walraven 361-552-9403 Priddy Ruth Witzsche, FIC 325-966-3757 Richmond Tanya Witcher 281-652-6606 Rockdale Judy Marie York 512-446-5914 Round Top/Rutersville Linda Mattocks 512-736-9988
Clif Klabunde, FIC 830-980-4020 Valentin Lucero, FIC 210-725-6535 Jim McNeel 210-601-2097 Emma Moya 210-344-3935 Veronica Trejo 210-710-0932 San Marcos/Lockhart Janice Kuhen 512-393-1431 Schulenburg/Weimar Mary K. Seifert 979-743-0312 Schwertner Irene Schwertner 254-527-4470 Sealy Joanie Griffin 979-398-0706
Spring Branch Gloria Gass 830-885-4405 Lisa Lanphere 830-221-8128 Stockdale Ronald Wiatrek 830-996-3005 Victoria Jason Hybner 361-652-6924 Victoria/Yoakum Laura Thigpen 361-676-8307 Yoakum Mary Koenig 361-293-1743 Yorktown Judy Wolf 361-564-2452
Page 36 – Hermann Sons Life – September 2017
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