September 2025 by Hermann Sons Life

Pg. 4

Pgs. 12-13

Medicare AEP important time to review plans

By TERESA SAATHOFF Vice President of Sales

SAN

ANTONIO

Pgs. 14-22

– It is hard to believe, but this is our fourth year offering Medicare coverage to our Hermann Sons Life Members! Since we began, we have been honored to help so many of you navigate your Medicare options with confidence and peace of mind. Here’s to continuing to serve you with the same care and dedication for many more years to come.

We are also here to help nonHermann Sons Life members with their Medicare needs. In fact, anyone that uses one of our agents to sign up for Medicare has the option to become a Hermann Sons Life Member.

Medicare’s Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is right around the corner and will run from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7. This short window is the one time of year when most Medicare beneficiaries can make important changes to their health and prescription drug coverage for the following year. Missing the AEP window can mean having to wait an entire year to make changes to your plan.

Reasons to review your Medicare plan during AEP

• Your health needs may have changed. New prescriptions, diagnoses, or treatments might mean you need different coverage.

• Plans change every year. Even if your plan’s name stays the same, your premiums, copays, and coverage can change.

• Doctors and hospital networks can change, and it is important to make sure your preferred providers are still innetwork.

• You could save money. There might be another plan that offers better benefits at a lower monthly premium.

• Avoid coverage gaps by ensuring your plan still meets your needs and help prevent any outof-pocket expenses.

• Take advantage of new benefits. Some plans add perks like vision, dental, hearing or wellness programs each year.

• Reviewing your plans during AEP, can give you peace of mind without any unexpected changes when January arrives.

Always be aware of changes to your Medicare plan that can affect your premiums, copays, provider networks and drug formularies. Even if you are satisfied with your current coverage, reviewing your plan during AEP ensures you are not caught off guard by changes that could impact your health or wallet.

How Hermann Sons Life Agents can help Navigating Medicare’s rules and comparing plans can feel overwhelming. That is where Hermann Sons Life Agents come in. Our licensed, knowledgeable agents:

• Review your current plan and identify changes for the upcoming year

• Compare multiple plan options to find one that fits your needs and budget

• Explain your choices so you feel confident in your decision

• Assist with enrollment paperwork, making the process smooth and stress-free

• Provide ongoing support year-round, not just during AEP We understand that choosing the right Medicare coverage is a personal decision. We are here to make sure you have the information and guidance you need to choose wisely.

Don’t miss your chance. The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period is your opportunity to secure the coverage you need for the year ahead. Contact our office today to schedule your free, no-obligation Medicare review.

Thank you for making Hermann Sons Life your trusted life insurance, annuity, and Medicare company.

For more Medicare information, see Pg. 4.

HSL Dance registration continues through Oct. 1

SAN ANTONIO – Registration for HSL Youth Foundation, Inc. dance classes continues through Oct. 1.

The program is offered at a discount for members (policyholders) and is also open to nonmembers.

The 2025-2026 dance program is available to youth 3 to 17 years of age as of Sept. 1, 2025.

Dance school information, lo-

cations and registration instructions are available at hermannsonslife.org.

The schools of dance are designed to teach the art of dance in a wholesome atmosphere of fun, work, physical exercise and fellowship.

Each school of dance teaches varying degrees of tap, ballet and jazz.

Dance class tuition is $38

per month for nine months or you may choose to pay the full amount of $342 at registration. A $200 registration fee is due at the time of enrollment. Active Hermann Sons Life members receive a waiver for the registration fee. In most instances, the dance season follows the school-year calendar. Each class holds a spring recital to conclude the dance season.

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 210-226-9261 • 800-234-4124

POSTMASTER:

Send address changes to:

Hermann Sons Life, P.O. Box 1941 San Antonio, TX 78297-1941

DIRECTORS

Kimberly Krueger, Chair

David Wolf, Vice Chair

David R. Noak

Stan Steiger

Laura Tiffin

Gerald Ziemnicki

OFFICERS

President and CEO

Robin Czarnek

Vice President of Operations and COO

Samantha Schulmeier Kelley

Vice President of Sales

Teresa Saathoff

LAWS COMMITTEE

Mary Beam

Pat Bushman

Elizabeth Byron

Agnes Dreibrodt

Kathryn Gloor

Tammy Jones

Jacqueline Klein

Edward J. Muehlbrad

Arthur R. Pfefferkorn

Stephen Prewitt

Sherry Rakowitz

Annette Roecker

Steven Schellenberg

Harry Schriber

Ronald Wiatrek

MEMBER BENEFITS COMMITTEE

Shirley Faske

Paula Gebert

Charles Head

Bradley Klein

Cheryl Kluver

Joyce Kneupper

Pam Matula

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT COMMITTEE

Tommy Daum

Kyle Hartmann

Pat Klotz

Robert Prewitt

Judith Schulmeier

Gilbert Shelby

Diane Smith

BUSINESS OPERATIONS COMMITTEE

Gary Falkenberg

Kerry Ginn

Anna Larie Keith

Charles Knibbe

David Lewis

Michael Warneke

President's Message

HSL dedicated to developing ways to serve you better

By ROBIN CZARNEK President and CEO

I was honored to be able to speak at the recent National Association of Benefits and Insurance Professionals Conference in August where I taught a class on Life Insurance and Annuities for licensed agents’ continuing education.

For insurance professionals, Continuing Education is more than a licensing requirement – it’s a professional obligation. We have a responsibility to stay informed about new products, market trends and the everchanging regulations that shape and impact our industry and affect the people we serve.

At Hermann Sons Life, we take that responsibility seriously. We continually monitor market developments, legislative changes and innovative product offerings

HSL accepting flood relief donations

SAN ANTONIO – Hermann

Sons Life is accepting donations for the Kerr County Flood Relief Fund coordinated by the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country – a 501(c)(3) public charity.

Donations can be made online on the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country website, communityfoundation.net or mailed to the HSL Home Office to P.O. Box 1941, San Antonio, TX 78297-1941, Attention: Hill Country Flood Relief.

to ensure our members have access to the best solutions available to meet their needs.

With renewed focus on education and technology, we are working to provide better tools and guidance needed to help families protect their futures with confidence. While change

never happens as quickly as we’d like it to, we know it’s vital to providing the products and experience you deserve.

NABIP events are valuable opportunities for insurance professionals to collaborate, share expertise and strengthen our ability to serve you. I am grateful for the chance to contribute and connect with such outstanding colleagues, all dedicated to advancing our industry for the benefit of those we serve.

Behind the scenes at HSL, we’ve been hard at work developing new ways to serve you better. Education and technology remain at the top of our priorities to serve you better and exciting changes are underway. For example, we recently launched our Multi-Year Guaranteed Annuity (MYGA), offering highly competitive rates, along

with a streamlined e-application process.

Look for future enhancements to come including online payments and digital access for both agents and members. We know these changes are long overdue and we appreciate your patience in waiting on these changes. These improvements are just the beginning. We’re working to build the infrastructure to support even more innovations in the years to come to make your experience with Hermann Sons Life smoother.

You are at the heart of everything we do. We appreciate your suggestions. We are listening. We want to serve you in the ways you prefer to be served and with the products you’re requesting. Thank you for being a member of Hermann Sons Life and keep those ideas coming!

Members invited to share their stories

SAN ANTONIO – New content and a new format is coming to the Hermann Sons Life Newspaper in 2026.

In preparation, HSL invites all members to share their stories!

Did a HSL policy make a difference in your life? Does your HSL membership go back generations? Do you have fond memories of lodge meetings, camp or

dance? We’d love for you to share them with us.

Do you have a hobby or craft you’d like to share? Are you a collector? Do you have a remarkable health recovery story to share? Are you famous? Let us know!

Recipes

We will be featuring recipes and want you to share your favorites! Send complete ingre-

dients and instructions with a photo of you and the dish.

We also welcome your suggestions/recommendations for newspaper content.

Submit to Communications Director/Editor Elaine Soto at elaines@hermannsonslife.org or mail to Communications Department, P.O. Box 1941, San Antonio, Texas 78297.

SEPTEMBER 2025

Lodge Reports

Robin Czarnek President and CEO

Howie’s Happenings

Pups Thelma and Louise waiting for perfect home

By ROBIN CZARNEK President and CEO

NEW BRAUNFELS – Howie and Beau had a lot of fun being “helpers” this last month. We had to have major repairs to our patio deck, and the boys were right in the middle of it all. They helped by bringing in little bits and pieces of wood extricated from the deck damage, sunning themselves while the work was done and an occasional bark just to let you know they were there. It was all more about getting some extra attention than any show of force.

We found out Howie doesn’t care for flies. He had a fly giving him a particularly hard time and he had the last laugh…he pinned the fly against a window and ate it. We avoided getting any kisses from Howie for a bit. The boys had a few visits from

Krypto and Oakley. While Beau didn’t mind, Howie was pretty pouty about it. He has decided he doesn’t like sharing our attention and put a block on Krypto and Oakley more than once so they couldn’t get pets. Howie and Beau wanted you to meet their new friends, Thelma and Louise. These sweet sisters are adorable terrier mixes that are about six months old. They are adventurous, playful girls. While they would love to be adopted together, they are independent too and would be able to be adopted separately as well. They are looking for that perfect home ready to help keep the manners and leash training going as they are ready to learn more and are eager to please.

Heart of Texas SPCA/HOTK9

Rescue held a fundraiser with Jordan’s Way on Aug. 9. They

Howie and Beau take a nap. Supervising the deck work going on outside and hauling wood inside sure is exhausting!

want to say a huge thank you to everyone who helped them out. Every donation makes a difference to help save lives. You can donate and find out more details on their Facebook page.

Appreciation luncheon held for HSL Camp counselors

The HSL Camp season drew to a close on Wednesday, Aug. 6. An appreciation luncheon for all the counselors was held in the dining hall. Red’s BBQ of Adkins, owned by James Baird, a former camper and counselor, catered a brisket and sausage meal. Desserts and fruit were also served. Stay tuned next month for photos from counselor presentations.

Events

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

Sisters Thelma and Louise are waiting for a permanent home! The pups are six months old.

If you’re interested in meeting Thelma and Louise or any of the amazing other pups at HOTK9, please email hotk9rescue@yahoo.com to schedule a visit. HOTK9 is a 501(c)(3) nokill canine shelter dedicated to rescuing pups in need. For more information or to view the amazing dogs available for adoption, visit www.heartoftexasspca.com or find Heart of Texas SPCA/HOTK9 Rescue on Facebook.

Editor/Communications Director

Elaine Hernandez Soto

210-226-9261, ext. 279 email: elaines@hermannsonslife.org

Assistant Editor/Assistant Communications Director

Hannah Ruiz-Gruver

210-226-9261, ext. 102 email: hannahrg@hermannsonslife.org

All news articles and photographs should be mailed to: Editor

Hermann Sons Life, P.O. Box 1941, San Antonio, TX 78297-1941 or emailed to: elaines@hermannsonslife.org

Reports and photos can also be submitted online at hermannsonslife.org under Member Benefits, Officer Forms. The report deadline is the 10th of each month.

For example, for the January issue, the deadline is Dec. 10.

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

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

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

Sales

Get to know Medicare

By PAM HARRISON Spark Advisors

Medicare Training and Compliance Supervisor

SAN ANTONIO – Choosing your Medicare coverage is a big decision – and it can be very confusing. This month, we’ll discuss the basics of Original Medicare, and next month we’ll cover some additional coverage options you have as a Medicare beneficiary. You’ll have a better understanding of the different “parts” of Medicare and the choices you have for your healthcare needs. Hermann Sons Life is available to assist you with any questions you may have and to help you find the best plan to meet your needs.

Choosing your Medicare coverage is a big decision – and it can be very confusing. This month, we’ll discuss the basics of Original Medicare, and next month we’ll cover some additional coverage options you have as a Medicare beneficiary. You’ll have a better understanding of the different “parts” of Medicare and the choices you have for your healthcare needs. Hermann Sons Life is available to assist you with any questions you may have and to help you find the best plan to meet your needs.

Medicare is individual health insurance offered to U.S. citizens and other eligible individuals based on age (65), disability or qualifying health condition.

Medicare was originally created with two parts: Part A and Part B. These two parts are known as Original Medicare and are offered by the federal government to eligible individuals.

How much does Original Medicare cost?

Part A Part B

● Premium: $0 for most people if you or your spouse worked and paid Medicare taxes for at least 10 years

● Deductible: $1676 per benefit period* in 2025

● Hospital Copayment:

○ Days 1-60: $0

○ Days 61-90: $419/day in 2025

○ Days 91+$838/day in 2025 while using your 60 lifetime reserve days.

● Skilled Nursing Facility Stay:

● Premium:

○ $185-$628.90 in 2025, depending on income**

● Deductible:

○ $257 annual deductible in 2025

● Coinsurance:

○ 20% of Medicare-approved amount for Part B services, including most doctor services while you’re a hospital inpatient

Medicare Advantage (Part C) and Prescription Drug Coverage (Part D) are offered by private insurance companies. Medicare Supplement Plans are also offered by private insurance companies and help pay for some out-of-pocket expenses with Original Medicare. We’ll cover Parts C and D, and Medicare Supplements next month.

Medicare was originally created with two parts: Part A and Part B. These two parts are known as Original Medicare and are offered by the federal government to eligible individuals. Medicare Advantage (Part C) and Prescription Drug Coverage (Part D) are offered by private insurance companies. Medicare Supplement Plans are also offered by private insurance companies and help pay for some out-of-pocket expenses with Original Medicare. We’ll cover Parts C & D, and Medicare Supplements next month.

Here are some things covered by Original Medicare:

Part A Hospital Insurance Part B Medical Insurance

● Inpatient hospital stays, including special care units, like intensive care and operating room services

●Skilled nursing facility care after a qualified inpatient stay

● Hospice care

● Some home health care

● Covers certain doctors’ services, like PCP and specialists visits

● Outpatient care, like outpatient surgery and ambulance

● Medical supplies, like wheelchairs and walkers

● Preventive services, like mammograms

○ Days 1-20: $0

○ Days 21-100: $209.50 each day

○ Days 101 and beyond: You pay all costs

● Home Health Care:

○ $0 for covered home health care services

○ 20% of the Medicare approved amount for durable medical equipment (like wheelchairs, walkers, etc.)

● Hospice Care:

○ $0 for covered hospice care services.

○ You may also pay a copayment of up to $5 for each prescription drug for pain relief and symptom control

○ 5% of the Medicare approved amount for inpatient respite care.

● Clinical laboratory services

● $0 for covered clinical laboratory services

● Home Health Care:

○ $0 for covered home health care services

○ 20% of the Medicare approved amount for durable medical equipment (like wheelchairs, walkers, etc.)

● Outpatient Mental Health Care:

○ $0 for your yearly depression screening

○ 20% of the Medicare approved amount for visits to your doctor or other health care provider to diagnose or treat your condition

For a complete list of services included in Part A & Part B, go to: https://www.medicare.gov/basics/get-started-with-medicare/medicare-basics/parts-of-medicare

For a complete list of services included in Part A and Part B, go to: https://www.medicare.gov/basics/get-started-with-medicare/medicare-basics/parts-ofmedicare

*A benefit period begins the day you are admitted to the hospital and ends when you’ve been out of the hospital 60 days in a row.

**The amount you pay for Part B premium can vary depending on your tax reported income from two years prior.

See https://www.medicare.gov/basics/costs/medicare-costs for more information

**The amount you pay for Part B premium can vary depending on your tax reported income from two years prior.

See:

https://www.medicare.gov/basics/costs/medicare-costs for more information

What Original Medicare does not cover:

• Most outpatient prescription drugs

• Routine dental care - exams, cleanings, X-rays, most dental services

• Routine eye exams, eyeglasses or contact lenses

• Routine hearing tests or hearing aids

• Wellness benefits such as gym memberships

• Routine foot care

• Long-term care

• Cosmetic surgery

• Acupuncture

• Most care outside the U.S.

As you can see, Original Medicare doesn’t cover everything associated with your healthcare and there are out-of-pocket expenses associated with covered services.

Most Medicare beneficiaries benefit from additional coverage like a Medicare Supplement Plan and a Prescription Drug Plan or a Medicare Advantage Plan with Prescription Drug coverage.

Next month, we’ll cover your choices when it comes to additional coverage and how to choose the right option for your healthcare needs.

Hermann Sons Life is a proud supporter of Life Insurance Awareness Month!

Protected by planning

It took a long, hot motorcycle ride up a mountain road to cement things for Ryan and Racquel Pleasants. After several years of dating, including long distance while Racquel finished her nursing degree, Ryan proposed beside a stream.

“From the moment we got married, he was excited to start a family,” says Racquel. “Growing up, he was often the go-to for kids in the neighborhood and helped with babysitting. He was just a natural.” He was over the moon when Ella was born, and then four years later, Oliver completed the family. The Smart Thing to Do He was also a natural when it came to finances. From the start, Ryan ensured they both had ample life insurance, in addition to what their work provided, saying, “It’s the smart thing to do.” That meant a combination of permanent life insurance, for its longterm protection and ability to accumulate cash value, and term life insurance, for income replacement should the worst happen. Ryan worked as a firefighter and embodied the best of that

profession. He was hardworking and loyal. He was loved by his colleagues and lauded for his integrity and attention to detail.

Unfortunately, at the age of 41, Ryan died while on duty, at the job he loved. The public mourning that unfolded in his community spoke volumes about the man he was.

And for Racquel and the kids, the careful planning with life insurance has been key. While Racquel continues to work parttime as a nurse, she feels more at ease knowing her finances are in order. The life insurance has allowed them to stay in the home they had built together and provide – now and into the future for Ella and Oliver.

“The life insurance has been a security blanket,” says Racquel. “It has allowed me to focus on the children and be present for them, and to continue working on the life that Ryan and I both dreamt of.”

Castroville Lodge member wins gift card

The Sales Department is recognizing six more recommenders for the month of July. We appreciate the 79 members who have recommended 90 new members to Hermann Sons Life in 2025. The winner of a gift card for July is Gwyn Mangold of Castroville. Congratulations to the following Recommenders: Recommender Agent

Kerrigan Brown, Mission-Alamo

Patricia Graff, Hondo Victory

Suzanne Heiligman, Castroville

Jerry Krebs, Round Top

Gwyn Mangold, Castroville

Madelyn Smith, Hondo Victory

2026 Fiesta medal design winner will receive $500!

SAN ANTONIO – Show us your creative talents and you could win $500!

The HSL Youth Foundation, Inc. is holding a Fiesta Medal Contest. The deadline to enter is Sept. 30.

The top five selected de -

signs will be posted on social media and the design with the most likes wins.

The winner’s medal will be turned into a real 2026 Fiesta Medal.

Designs must include “HSL Youth Foundation, Inc.” and

be kid friendly.

All proceeds from medal sales will benefit the HSL Foundation, Inc. Members and non-members eligible. Submit your design to: hslyouthfoundation@hermannsonslife.org.

Gladys Rowley

Ana Vasquez

Gary Falkenberg

Glenford Boehme

Laurie Steele

Agents Directory (alphabetized

Adkins

«Roxy Pruski • 210-218-6204

Judith Schulmeier, FIC • 210-667-1938

Alice

Paula Gebert • 361-701-7527

Sheri McBryde • 361-876-6893

Austin

Brad Klein, FIC • 512-497-0678

Janie Flores • 210-376-0501

Shirley Kuhen Faske • 512-789-3975

Bandera

Heather Hart • 210-412-4041

Boerne

Ana Vasquez, FIC • 210-569-4660

Heather Hart • 210-412-4041

Brenham

Gary Falkenberg, FICF • 713-466-6069

Bryan/College Station

Gary Falkenberg, FICF • 713-466-6069

Bulverde

Heather Hart • 210-412-4041

Martha Villanueva • 830-481-0032

Castroville

Glenford Boehme, FIC • 210-219-9792

«Jacqulynn Herrmann • 210-275-0429

Laurie Steele • 210-414-4755

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

«Reagan Haby Rogiers • 210-695-5588

Stephen Bonahoom • 210-695-5588

Cibolo/Schertz

Judith Schulmeier, FIC • 210-667-1938

Comfort

Ana Vasquez, FIC • 210-569-4660

Bryce Sorbel • 210-528-0120

Heather Hart • 210-412-4041

Conroe

Gary Falkenberg, FICF • 713-466-6069

Converse

Dan Boenig • 210-705-1815

«Roxy Pruski • 210-218-6204

Judith Schulmeier, FIC • 210-667-1938

Corpus Christi

Paula Gebert • 361-701-7527

Sheri McBryde • 361-876-6893

Coupland

Brad Klein, FIC • 512-497-0678

Cuero

Tracy Fuchs • 361-564-2250

Wayne Tiffin • 361-564-8144

Dallas

Gilbert Shelby • 214-289-1815

Deanville

Gary Falkenberg, FICF • 713-466-6069

Devine

Cynthia Sultenfuss, FIC • 210-219-6409

Laurie Steele • 210-414-4755

Robin Sultenfuss • 210-854-4443

El Campo

Hector Gutierrez • 979-543-2709

Fayetteville

Linda Mattocks • 512-736-9988

Judith Schulmeier, FIC • 210-667-1938

Floresville

Gladys Rowley, FIC • 210-219-6964

John Pacini • 210-844-7182

Fort Worth

Sandra Jones, FIC • 817-781-7155

Fredericksburg

Todd Bierschwale • 830-997-2130

Galveston

Teri Walston • 832-620-5405

Georgetown

Brad Klein, FIC • 512-497-0678

Giddings

Linda Mattocks • 512-736-9988

Goliad

Tracy Fuchs • 361-550-2003

Gonzales

Bobbie Polasek • 830-672-6317

Helotes

Rayna Sue Irwin • 210-710-7038

«Reagan Haby Rogiers • 210-695-5588

Hondo «Jacqulynn Herrmann • 210-275-0429

Laurie Steele • 210-414-4755

Stephen Bonahoom • 210-695-5588

Houston

Gary Falkenberg, FICF • 713-466-6069

Hector Gutierrez • 979-543-2709

Janie Flores • 210-376-0501

Teri Walston • 832-620-5405

Jourdanton

Gladys Rowley, FIC • 210-219-6964

Laurie Steele • 210-414-4755

Kerrville

Heather Hart • 210-412-4041

La Grange

Linda Mattocks • 512-736-9988

«Kyle Hartmann • 979-639-1439

La Vernia «Marlin Tanneberger, FIC • 210-827-7229

«Roxy Pruski • 210-218-6204

Laredo

Janie Flores • 210-376-0501

League City

Teri Walston • 832-620-5405

Lockhart

Janice Kuhen • 512-393-1431

Marion

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

Judith Schulmeier, FIC • 210-667-1938

Moulton

Judith Schulmeier, FIC • 210-667-1938

New Braunfels

Becki Lucas • 361-550-9358

Brenda Heulitt • 830-832-1674

Britney Cross • 281-450-6291

«Carol Lopez • 210-683-7241

Krystal Wilson • 623-698-8348

Martha Villanueva • 830-481-0032

Vanessa Meier • 210-264-8658

Niederwald

Shirley Kuhen Faske • 512-789-3975

Odessa

Martha Villanueva • 830-481-0032

Orange Grove

Paula Gebert • 361-701-7527

Paige

Linda Mattocks • 512-736-9988

Port Lavaca

Nancy Walraven • 361-550-6844

Poth

John Pacini • 210-844-7182

Rosenberg-Richmond

Gary Falkenberg, FICF • 713-466-6069

Round Top

Linda Mattocks • 512-736-9988

Rutersville «Kyle Hartmann • 979-639-1439

San Antonio

Analilia Estrada • 210-772-0027

Ana Vasquez, FIC • 210-569-4660 «Carol Lopez • 210-683-7241

Chris Naughton • 210-365-2009

Corina Gomez • 210-262-3747

David Guerrero Jr. • 210-800-6758

Garrett Czarnek • 210-315-8152

Gladys Rowley, FIC • 210-219-6964

Heather Hart • 210-412-4041

Isabel Diaz Servin • 210-394-4120

Janie Flores • 210-376-0501

John Pacini • 210-844-7182

Lauren Gilhooly • 210-381-0845

Lorraine Anthony • 210-617+8165

Luiz Torres Mendez • 470-962-1174

Kenneth Gonzales • 210-394-6037

Martha Villanueva • 830-481-0032

Olen Rangel • 210-241-0262

Rayna Sue Irwin • 210-710-7038

Richard DeLeon • 210-833-8514 «Roxy Pruski • 210-218-6204

Suzanne Saenz • 210-838-2711

Tony Davila • 210-462-6211

San Marcos

Janice Kuhen • 512-393-1431

Krystal Wilson • 623-698-8348

Shirley Kuhen Faske • 512-789-3975

Vanessa Meier • 210-264-8658

Schulenburg «Kyle Hartmann • 979-639-1439

Seguin «Annette D. Roecker • 830-832-0724 «Roxy Pruski • 210-218-6204

Spring Branch

Heather Hart • 210-412-4041

Martha Villanueva • 830-481-0032

St. Hedwig

Judith Schulmeier, FIC • 210-667-1938

Stockdale

Ronald Wiatrek • 210-771-4354

«Denotes a Featured Agent

SALLY G. HERTZBERG

Siemering Lodge

Died March 13, 2022 • Age 86

LIBERINE QUANDT

Houston Lodge

Died Sept. 23, 2023 • Age 96

SCOUT D. GEISEL

La Vernia Lodge

Died Jan. 7, 2024 • Age 26

ROSE L. RISLEY

Poth Lodge

Died March 27, 2024 • Age 86

LESLIE D. KURTZ

Louise Schuetze Lodge

Died May 1, 2024 • Age 69

ROBBIE M. DAW-HARTFIEL

Rosenberg Richmond Lodge

Died May 26, 2024 • Age 93

ANNA B. GARBADE

Shiner Lodge

Died July 9, 2024 • Age 78

THOMAS C. WOOD

Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge

Died Nov. 8, 2024 • Age 36

JOHNNIE J. KLATT

Sealy Lodge

Died Dec. 1, 2024 • Age 81

W.W. BEUHLER JR.

Anton Wenzel Lodge

Died Feb. 5, 2025 • Age 94

In Memoriam of Our Deceased Members

MARCEILLE M. DAGROSSA

Fredericksburg Lodge

Died Feb. 6, 2025 • Age 60

HARVEST HOPE

New Braunfels Lodge

Died Feb. 7, 2025 • Age 30

JUDY I. WOLLEY

Brenham Lodge

Died Feb. 15, 2025 • Age 83

ERVIN A. PECHACEK

Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge

Died Feb. 18, 2025 • Age 93

GARY G. MONTAGUE

Harmonia Lodge

Died Feb. 25, 2025 • Age 78

PEGGY L. BRAST

Cat Spring Lodge

Died Feb. 26, 2025 • Age 86

BARBARA J. HILL

Pershing Lodge

Died March 2, 2025 • Age 81

JACKALYN J. OERTEL

Mission-Alamo Lodge

Died March 13, 2025 • Age 95

CHARLOTTE A. PROCTOR

Dunlay Lodge

Died March 20, 2025 • Age 87

JOHN STEEN

Paul Vogt Lodge

Died April 11, 2025 • Age 42

MEMORIAL DONATION FORM

Name of Deceased:

Acknowledgment from

Name:

Address: City, State, Zip: Donor:

Address: City, State, Zip:

Date:

CLINTON PEESE

Fredericksburg Lodge

Died May 3, 2025 • Age 79

CYNTHIA G. WILSON

Lone Oak Lodge

Died May 5, 2025 • Age 74

HUGH J. TUTTLE

Mission-Alamo Lodge

Died May 14, 2025 • Age 84

ROGER G. WELSCH

Kypfer-Salge Lodge

Died May 24, 2025 • Age 90

PHILLIP L. TAYLOR

Siemering Lodge

Died June 2, 2025 • Age 67

MAYO D. RIDGEWAY

Greater Texas Lodge

Died June 3, 2025 • Age 82

ARLENE E. CHRISTMAS

Seguin Lodge

Died June 4, 2025 • Age 87

GEORGIA H. KEY

Da Costa Lodge

Died June 8, 2025 • Age 92

SUSAN K. KOERBER

Mission-Alamo Lodge

Died June 10, 2025 • Age 71

JOHNNIE D. BINDSEIL

Twin Sisters Lodge

Died June 13, 2025 • Age 74

CATHY E. BOWMAN

Columbia Lodge

Died June 14, 2025 • Age 76

HENRIETTA CULAK

Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge

Died June 17, 2025 • Age 97

NANCY J. CHIVERS

Louise Schuetze Lodge

Died June 19, 2025 • Age 72

RUTH E. JUPE

Louise Schuetze Lodge

Died June 20, 2025 • Age 98

JOANN H. EVANS

Ellinger Lodge

Died June 26, 2025 • Age 69

PATRICIA A. BRONDER

Louise Schuetze Lodge

Died June 28, 2025 • Age 73

HOLLIS H. ULBRICHT

Seguin Lodge

Died June 28, 2025 • Age 80

MARGIE TICE

Louise Schuetze Lodge

Died July 5, 2025 • Age 92

JAMES K. FLOYD

Fredericksburg Lodge

Died July 8, 2025 • Age 79

AUBREY C. LEMM

Harmonia Lodge

Died July 10, 2025 • Age 73

80 Years

HANNA L. GEST Austin Lodge

TOMMIE L. HERZIK

CLYDE L. HINTON Gonzales Lodge

GLADYS W. ASHLOCK Coupland Lodge

ERICH E. UECKER Harmonia Lodge

GEORGE L. BRUCKS JR. Hondo Lodge

ARTHUR A. PORTER Mission-Alamo Lodge

HARVEY FAHRENTHOLD Poth Lodge

DARLENE J. COOKE Vineta Lodge

75 Years

LINDA SANFORD Boerne Lodge

GRACE W. MARESH Cat Spring Lodge

DOROTHY A. BRODBECK

MARY ANN HILDEBRAND

FREDERICK T. SCHUETZE Comfort Lodge

GLENN R. MINZENMAYER Coupland Lodge

LAVON C. NEESE Cuero Family Lodge

ROBERT BOHMLER JR. Gulf Lodge

GERALD H. SLOCUM Harmonia Lodge

FLOYD W. SAATHOFF Hondo Lodge

JEAN M.D. HEIDE

GLORIA M. MILLER Louise Schuetze Lodge

MARY L. BARROW Mission-Alamo Lodge

PHILIP M. BYRNE New Braunfels Lodge

LARRY N. LEHMAN Niederwald Lodge

CAROL JO DEFLER Prinz Solms Lodge

SANDRA K. COATES San Patricio County Lodge

CORINNE A. ZUNKER Spring Branch Lodge

BRYAN A. NAYLOR III Stern Lodge

ELLA S. TODD Waco-Robinson Lodge

70 Years

FOREST M. CRUSE JR.

PAULA J. WARR Austin Lodge

JIMMIE L. CLASS

JOE W. SCHINDLER Bernardo Lodge

OTTO J. ACKER JR.

HAROLD G. RIETZ Brenham Lodge

JAMES T. OPERSTENY Bryan Lodge

D.W.S. HAVEMANN

OLAN F. KARM Castroville Lodge

NANCY E. DUGIE Cibolo Lodge

LONNIE D. AGOLD

MARY K. BOHNERT

IDA E. FISHER

JOAN LINDNER-ABELMAN

JAMES R. PANKRATZ

JOYCE L. PANKRATZ

CAROL B. THOMAS

CURTIS E. VOGES Comfort Lodge

ALICE J. MATETZSCHK

M.O. SCHROEDER JR. Coupland Lodge

THOMAS M. BUESING

KAREN F. FILIP

BILLIE Y. HANKE Cuero Family Lodge

FRANK LACOKE JR. Dallas Lodge

THERESA A. BURKETT RENETTE ETLINGER Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge

FRANKLIN R. HRUSKA Ellinger Lodge

JAMES A. ARA Gonzales Lodge

ROBERT J. BODET

WILLIAM S. BOTTO

HUGO J. CONNELL

ROBERT E. HUSTEDE

ROBERT E. MOCKERT

GEORGE E. RICHTER Harmonia Lodge

Pioneers

DORIS B. ENDERLIN

Helotes Lodge

DAVID R. SCHMIDT Hondo Lodge

REBECCA A. RABON Houston Lodge

JANICE A. FAIT

Jackson County Lodge

BRENDA K. KROLL

LINDA F. PETEREK Karnes City Lodge

DORIS J. CHAMPION Lockhart Lodge

MARY M. BROWN

LINDA K. CARROLL

ELIZABETH A. CLEMENTS

SHIRLEY A. K. MART

CAROLYN M. MICHALEK

CYNTHIA A. MUELLER

SANDRA B. SCHNEIDER

BARBARA A. SEKULA Louise Schuetze Lodge

DORIS MOONEY McGregor Lodge

TRUDY K. MICHELSON

LAWRENCE E. WENZEL New Braunfels Lodge

ELIZABETH S. SANDERS

S. KIRBY SMITH Pershing Lodge

REBECCA F. KELLY Plum Lodge

WILLIAM J. MAHA

SIRI C. MCMILLIN

RICKY L. SEKULA Poth Lodge

SHERYL L. DURFEY Round Top Lodge

LAVERNE H. REDMAN Rowena Lodge

ELROY R. ISSLEIB Rutersville Lodge

PEGGY A. MEINERS San Marcos Lodge

JOYCE A. HERMES

ALLEN L. HOELSCHER

BILLIE J. PERKINS

M.R. STEINHAUSER

GENE E. VOGT JR. Schulenburg Lodge

JAMES W. HIGHTOWER

PATRICIA V. ORMSBY

LINDA WRIGHT Schwertner Lodge

DELORES BARKER

ROGER ZIMMERMAN

CAROL ZIMMERMAN-LYONS Shiner Lodge

CATHY A. BEICKER

W.H. LUENSMANN

NONA K. SCALES Seguin Lodge

PHYLLIS A. HAVENS Spring Branch Lodge

WAYNE L. DIETERT

DIANA M. MOLTZ Stern Lodge

GENEVA A. NEELY

SHERRIE A. RICHTER

KARLA THOMAS Vineta Lodge

KATHLEEN M. MACH

GEORGIA L. SCHMID

SALLY K. SHORT Waco-Robinson Lodge

BETTIE MAE STEHLING Weesatche Lodge

WAYNE W. KOHLER Womack Lodge

BONNIE KAISER

DONNA G. STYRA Yorktown Lodge

60 Years

MICHAEL A. EDWARDS

RICKARD J. MARKETTE Anton Wenzel Lodge

JOHN M. WALLACE Austin Lodge

DONNA V. KRUMREY Bernardo Lodge

FRANK C. MZYK

IRENE M. MZYK

RHONDA K. MZYK Bexar Lodge

CAROLYN A. GRIMM

JEANETTE N. PREUSS Brenham Lodge

REBECCA L. GRANATO Brunhilde Lodge

MARY C. JOHNSON

MARY ANN TORRENCE Bryan Lodge

MALCOLM N. DITTERT

VANA L. FROEBEL

BRADLEY J. RINN

Cat Spring Lodge

PATRICIA A. WISE

Castroville Lodge

CHRIS L. KOEHLER

Cibolo Lodge

NADENE E. ALFORD

LISA G. GIBSON-ULBRICHT

RUBY R. RIEBER

CONNIE F. SPENRATH

Comfort Lodge

CATHERINE A. GOLLA

MICHAEL R. JOHNSON

MICHELLE R. JOHNSON

GARY J. MEURER

BARBARA W. PENDER

KARL D. WENDL

Corpus Christi Lodge

GLENDA K. FRANKE

JEFFREY B. MCMAHAN

SHERYL L. MUELLER

LINDA M. PETEREK

PEGGY P. SPEARS

Cuero Family Lodge

MARY L. DAVENPORT

HENRY A. HOSEK III

N.W. RIEMENSCHNEIDER

ESTERLEEN A. SPANN

DON R. SUCHER

Da Costa Lodge

ELIZABETH G. BOYD

Deanville Lodge

BARBARA A. APPLEBEE

MISHELL D. LYNCH

Dunlay Lodge

SHERRYLE J. GROCE

SUSAN P. GROSS

JACKIE G. SHULTZ

PETER G. ULRICH

Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge

JAMES A. BOULIGNY

El Campo Lodge

DAVID M. DORNBERG

JAMYE L. OSBORNE

Fort Worth Lodge

JOSEPH W. ALLEN

MARCIA L. KLEIN

TROY MARBURGER

DORTHA A. STEHLING

DAVID K. STRAUBE

Fredericksburg Lodge

JULIE F. GOERLITZ

DALE F. MOEHLMANN

Gay Hill Lodge

Cont’d from Pg. 8

60 Years

FRED V. BAKER

MICHAEL S. BRZOZOWSKI

CHARLES G. FINLEY JR.

JAMES H. FINLEY

JOHN C. FLOYD JR.

JANELLE C. FLOYD

JEROME C. FLOYD

KAREN D. HOLUBEC-SORSBY

KAREN K. NOWOTNY

LOU ANN B. PARSLEY Gonzales Lodge

RODNEY C. BLUMBERG

JAMES A. HUNKLER

MELODY A. TURNER Greater Texas Lodge

ROBERT C. LEIMER

KAREN R. RUIZ Gulf Lodge

LELAND B. FRANKE Harmonia Lodge

DAVID D. RENKEN Hondo Lodge

SUSAN Z. MOYE

ANNA D. RENKEN

JILL M. RENKEN

RITA SCHOENENBERGER Hondo Victory Lodge

DIANNE E. JARVIS Houston Lodge

MONICA P. GOULD Jourdanton Lodge

TROY W. ALBRECHT

P.J. NIESCHWIETZ JR.

JEFFERY T. WISHERT Karnes City Lodge

BRIAN L. SKAGGS

SANDRA K. SKAGGS Kirby Lodge

MELISSA R. LUDWIG Kypfer-Salge Lodge

STEVEN R. STANUSH La Vernia Lodge

MARY A. WALTERS Lockhart Lodge

ALLENE E. BIEDIGER

CATHY JO CHESLOCK

BRENDA L. MCBEE

TAMIE RABENALDT

THERESA D. WEGNER Louise Schuetze Lodge

CLAUS D. HEIDE

PETER F. HEIDE

SHARON D. MCCLELLEN Mission-Alamo Lodge

KARL L. KUNZE Macdona Lodge

FORREST L. WIEDING Moulton Lodge

KAREN R. CULPEPPER

NANCY L. DAWSON

KIMBERLY J. HAZELWOOD

LAUREN M. MOSEL

SHERI LYN PALMER

LINDA K. TECHNIK New Bruanfels Lodge

JAMES R. MCNEILL Orange Grove Lodge

TAMMY S. BIEDIGER

RONI S. BOND

BETTY JO MCCUE

LINETTE K. MCCUE

MARY BETH ROGERS

WILLIAM D. ROGERS Pershing Lodge

DEBRA L. HOEFELMEYER

THOMAS E. ORTMANN

LISA M. TIEKEN Poth Lodge

CALVIN E. COUFAL

SHEILA M. GROSS

RODNEY E. LUETGE

BOBBY L. MEYER

LANEE N. SHEER Round Top Lodge

KIMBERLEY A. HARKINS Roscoe Lodge

CECIL J. KALINA Rowena Lodge

MILTON L. HEINTSCHEL Rutersville Lodge

BETTY JO HIRSCHMAN

JIMMY K. KIZER

TERRY V. KIZER Schwertner Lodge

KATHERINE M. LOTH

SUSAN M. MARLIN Schulenburg Lodge

DEANNE ABRAMEIT

MILLS P. GOTTHARDT

BETTIE A. MOUNT

DIXIE C. MOUNT

TIMOTHY W. PATEK

LAURAL L. POWELL

D.B. SCHNEIDER JR.

JERRY W. SCHNEIDER Seguin Lodge

Pioneers

MARVIN A. BARTHOLD

GREGORY E. BUTLER

JERRY T. HOLUBEC

THEODORE J. HOLUBEC

VERNON G. MANGOLD Siemering Lodge

BEVERLY S. KUEBEL

KEITH W. WEIDNER Spring Branch Lodge

DORIS F. JEFFERIES Stern Lodge

TAMARA S. RAYMOND Stockdale Lodge

KEVIN R. ACKER

BRUCE K. HANZ Twin Sisters Lodge

ARVELENE H. BARNES

LINDA J. BUELTEL

TERRI A. GARRETT

DEBORAH M. HOLUBEC

DEBORAH L. WRIGHT Vineta Lodge

DARYL R. KELM Waco-Robinson Lodge

NANCY L. EGGER

DENISE A. HIEBNER

JEANENE D. SCHROEDTER Weesatche Lodge

MELVIN EILERS JR.

LARRY R. EILERS

EDWARD C. JOHNSON JR. Womack Lodge

CHERRIE A.B. CHANEY Yorktown Lodge

50 Years

LOYD A. KLOSE

BRANDON P. MCGARY

Abilene Lodge

DE ANN BEST-MALTSBERGER Boerne Lodge

HOLLY N. BRUNNERT

MARILYN DREYER

HEATHER L. WILSON Brenham Lodge

CHRISTINA L. ROGERS

Cat Spring Lodge

DONNA K. DAVISSON Castroville Lodge

LAURA L. BORGFELD

Cibolo Lodge

GWEN A. GILES

Comfort Lodge

WHITNEY S. HERRMANN

PHILIP J. MCGUILL

Corpus Christi Lodge

CHRISTINA CADE

ELIZABETH M. POKLUDA

KELLY P. ROARK

Cuero Family Lodge

PAULA W. ALLGOOD

LISA M. KOOP

BRENDA S. MABRY

CHARLES E. WEBER

SALLY J. WEBER

STEPHEN V. WEBER Da Costa Lodge

BERT J. BUBELA

BRENT F. BUBELA El Campo Lodge

RONALD B. WALTERS Fort Worth Lodge

PATRICK N. DACY II

BEAU G. KLETT Fredericksburg Lodge

GLADYS J. LANGE

Gay Hill Lodge

TRACY A. WINDWEHEN Gonzales Lodge

DEIRDRE G. ECKERT Greater Texas Lodge

JAMES D. WILLIAMS Harmonia Lodge

PHILLIP J. CARPENTER

KYLA L. ZETT Haskell Lodge

BILLY H. HAWES SR.

PATRICIA A. HAWES Helotes Lodge

DOROTHY HELLER

Lisa M. HRNCIR

LILY MAE RICHTER

SUE A. SCHNEIDER Hochheim-Prairie Lodge

LAURA A. WILTON Hondo Victory Lodge

JENNIFER J. NEWBERRY Karnes City Lodge

LORI A. MUECKE Knippa Lodge

RACQUEL R. BODEMANN Kypfer-Salge Lodge

HARRY D. BARTH

VICKI L. BRORMAN

DECCA S. FOREMAN

KYLE C. FOREMAN

JENNIFER L. FRIZELL

NICKY L. SCHROEDER

Lockhart Lodge

JENNESS DAVIDSON

Louise Schuetze Lodge

JANET M. HUCKLE

BRADLEY M. ZAMZOW

Macdona Lodge

RITA J. WELCH

McGregor Lodge

STACEY B. BRUEMMER

ERIC A. EBERT

SHAWN A. EBERT New Braunfels Lodge

ROBIN J. BUSCHA

REBECCA K. HARMON

STACY R. VAHRENKAMP

BARBARA A. WATSON Paige Lodge

ANGELA M. BERRY

LYNETTE D. FEY

MICHAEL L. GLATT

SUSAN A. HARDIE

DAVID D. HOPKINS

STACEY D. HOPKINS Pershing Lodge

DAWN N. HALPAIN-PORTER

RICHARD E. VOSS Plum Lodge

KATHY L. NORWOOD Richland Lodge

HARLEY C. MORGAN

ANTHONY J. MULTER Rowena Lodge

CHAD W. TIETJEN Rutersville Lodge

GREGORY J. BONEWALD

BRIDGETT D. HUSER

SUSAN K. KALINA

ANGELA E. PRATKA Schulenburg Lodge

BRYAN S. GOLLA Seguin Lodge

JUSTIN L. MCNAIR Twin Sisters Lodge

NORTHE W. RIGGS Weesatche Lodge

SHERRY R. HART

COREY W. SAUERS Womack Lodge

BRENDAN R. HENZE Yorktown Lodge

Winners named in HSL bowling tournament

By SANDRA JONES Tournament Secretary

SAN ANTONIO – The 60th Hermann Sons Life Annual Statewide Bowling Tournament has come to an end. It was a great tournament, and everyone seemed to have a great time.

A special thanks to everyone who came out to bowl and to those who helped get subs and to the subs who bowled with strangers. I even heard that one team of two friends who bowled with two strangers have decided to stay together as a team to compete next year. Many new friendships were made and that is what it is all about – making new friends.

Thanks to the Home Office for the tournament donation. It goes toward the monetary prizes. Thanks to Communications Director Elaine Soto for being at the tournament and taking pictures. Be sure to check out the Hermann Sons Life Facebook page and newspaper for results and photos.

Opening ceremonies were held on Saturday, July 26, at the Bowlero at Thousand Oaks in San Antonio. Throwing out the first ball was Debbie Roach in honor of the late Pat Spradling. Pat was from Austin and had served for many years as tournament vice president. When the tournament was held in Austin, you could always count on her to be there for all shifts. She supported the tournament and always had a team bowling.

The tournament had a first this year. We had two bowlers, Caden Jones from Fort Worth and Molly Muennink from San Marcos, who are now 18 and have finished their junior program and will be bowling in their first adult league this year. They both made the HSL tournament their first official adult tournament. On a side note, they both won money. What better way to start their adult bowling careers. It wasn’t her first adult

The first ball was thrown by Debbie Roach of San Marcos Lodge in honor of former tournament officer Pat Spradling who passed away earlier this year. Pat was a member of Austin Lodge.

tournament, but 19-year-old Chandra Williams of San Antonio also competed. This is what is needed – more young people to keep this tournament alive. Tournament scores showed that some bowlers came to bowl!

High series for the tournament were Trey Castor with a 711 and Shannon Jones with a 613. High Games were John Gates with a 268 and a tie with 235 games are Shannon Jones and Chandra Williams. Other scores – Debbie Roach, 208/550; Hailey Fuchs, 213/544; Trisha Burns, 208/593; Mollie Muennick, 208/546; Chandra Williams, 563; Katlyn Dean, 211; Tracy Head, 209/534; and Paula Jackson, 203/518. Way to go ladies!

For the men, Trey Castor, 264/711; Rodney Ottmers, 238/658; Keith Crenweige, 236/683; Bart Wells, 234/652; Rush Bost, 268/641; Terry McFarland, 241/661; Jim Lawrence, 215/602; Virgil Alexander, 245/637; Max Maxwell, 234/615; Allan Werner, 244/681; Ronnie Burns, 246/644; and John Gates, 268/693. Hats off to these men for some great games and series. Congrats to all the high scorers – can’t wait for them to be even

higher next year.

Bowlers came from all parts of Texas to bowl. Towns represented this year were Athens, Comfort, Dallas, Fort Worth, San Angelo, San Antonio, Fredericksburg, San Marcos, Rockdale, Houston, Giddings, Schulenburg, Boerne and LaGrange. The tournament had 25 teams participating, which was an increase of two from 2024.

Remember you can have two non-members bowl with two members or just get those two non-members to join HSL!

San Antonio will host the 2026 tournament at Thousand Oaks Lanes for the 61st Tournament. Make plans now to get a team or two together and join us for a fun time of making new friends or visiting with old friends.

Thank you again to everyone who participated and a special thanks to those who came to cheer us on.

See you all next year in San Antonio!

Jeannie Lewis of Schulenburg won Ladies Singles, Ladies All Events and Ladies Team.

Max Maxwell of Comfort won Mens All Events.

Travelers won Men’s Team. Bowlers are John Gates, Wayne Roach, Terry McFarland and Rush Bost, all of San Marcos.

Roxann Sebring and Kathy Anderson-Gallegos of Houston were on the winning Ladies Team.

Ladies Doubles winners were Karen Burns-Lane and Shannon Jones, both of Fort Worth.

Mens Singles winner was Dennis Durst of Fredericksburg.

Mens Doubles winners were Max Below and Eric Ingram, both of Comfort.

Rosalynn Monroe of Rockdale was on the winning Ladies Team.

Hermann Sons Life Statewide Bowling Tournament

Doubles

Junior Members Take Over Hilltop!

My daughter had a blast!!

My granddaughter had a ball! She can’t wait until next year!

– Mary Ann Kotara Schirmer

– Abbey Lehner

Juniors Loving Life on Hilltop!

Thanks for sharing camp life with these kiddos. – Dale Marek

Attention parents! Camp session photos are available through the HSL website, hermannsonslife.org. Password is required.

Schulenburg to meet at Oakridge Restaurant Nov. 13

SCHULENBURG – Schulenburg Lodge will meet Wednesday, Nov. 13, at Oakridge Restaurant at 5:30 p.m. for refreshments followed by dinner and the meeting at 6 p.m. All members are welcome.

Fifty members and guests were in attendance for the August meeting. Scholarship recipients were in attendance and shared their college goals and expressed appreciation for the scholarships. Thank you cards were received from Mikayla Otto who is attending Texas A&M; Marcus Seger, Texas A&M; and Trevor Janak, Texas Tech University.

Campers Kylee Hoffman and Clay Hoffman shared the things

they learned and fun they had at summer camp this year. They also thanked the lodge for helping with their camp fees.

The lodge welcomes new member Hallie Kate Bruns.

A get-well card was sent to Mary Schroeder. A thank you card was read from Vernon Dittrich, Service Officer from the American Legion Post 143, for the donation from the lodge to purchase flags for area veterans’ graves in observance of Memorial Day.

Arline Ulrich reported birthday gifts were given to Nathan Loth, Dorothy Pavlas and Nancy Pavlik who are residents in the local nursing care facility. – Junette Rodecap

Helotes mourns loss of Michalczak

HELOTES – Is it with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved vice president of Helotes Lodge and president of Braun Hall Home Association, Al Michalczak. Al became a member at the age of nine in 1956. He was an officer of Helotes Lodge since 2005, as well as the president of Braun Hall. We are very grateful to Al for his many years of service and dedication.

We’d like to express our sincere condolences to Al’s wife, Susie and his family, and everyone who loved him. His kindness, spirit and generosity will be fondly remembered by many. He will truly be missed.

“Alfred Joseph Michalczak, gentleman rancher, acclaimed steel guitarist and a dedicated first-responder to the citizens of his beloved San Antonio, passed away on August 15, 2025, at his

San Antonio home, in the company of family.

“Al was 78. With unwavering courage, he had battled progressive supranuclear palsy in recent years and succumbed to complications of the disease.

“He is survived by his wife of 36 years, Yvonne “Susie” Michalczak of San Antonio; a sister, Georgia Edmondson Boyer of Bulverde, Texas; three children,

Alfred “Fred” Michalczak and wife Cheryl of San Antonio; Amy Carter and husband Jonathan of Stafford, Va.; and Andrew Michalczak of San Antonio; six grandchildren, Shawn Herber and wife Sybil; Zachary Herber, Sheldon Herber, Alison, Katelynn and Matthew Carter; also eight great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.”

For the complete obitiary, visit:

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries

Services are pending at Porter-Loring Mortuary West.

The lodge will hold its regular meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 9, at 7 p.m. at Braun Hall.

A meal will be provided. Voting will be held on the future of Braun Hall and a Nominations Committee for 2026 lodge officers will be selected.

– Reporter

Harmonia will honor past presidents

SAN ANTONIO – Harmonia Lodge will meet on Thursday, Sept. 11, in the Rathskeller. The lodge will provide spaghetti, salad, garlic bread and tea for the meal. Members are encouraged to bring a dessert to share. Past presidents will be honored. Celebrating birthdays at the

August meeting were Mike Warneke, Charles Kretschmar and Ernie Dewinne. Attendance prize winners were Alfonso Robalin and Bill Richard, and Mike Warneke won the split-the-pot prize. The lodge mourns the deaths of members Sammie James

Granato, Gary G. Montague, Jim Tom Helms, Aubrey C. Lemm and Lester E. Theis.

Everyone enjoyed a meal of fried chicken, sides and desserts and bingo. Winners were Albert Ranzau, Dorothy Pawalek and Genny Kraus.

Reporter

Beethoven Damenchor hosting Texanischer Gebirgs Sangerfest

SAN ANTONIO – All are invited to attend the 133rd Texanischer Gebirgs Sangerfest at the Hermann Sons Life San Antonio Home Association Building on Saturday, Sept. 20.

San Antonio’s Beethoven Damenchor is delighted to host this year’s annual event on behalf of the Texanischer Gebirgs Sangerbund.

The concert is free to the pub -

lic and begins with an opening ceremony at 1 p.m., flag presentations and the concert featuring six German choirs representing Fredericksburg, New Braunfels and San Antonio.

The gathering is a testament to the legacy established by our ancestors so long ago, a wonderful celebration of our shared love of German music, language and culture.

Schulenburg Lodge scholarship recipients attended the August meeting and shared their college goals. Pictured are Trevor Janak, Texas Tech University; Marcus Seger, Texas A&M University; Madison Kunschick, Texas State University and Mikayla Otto, Texas A&M University.

Schulenburg Lodge juniors Clay and Kylee Hoffman shared their exciting experience at Hermann Sons Life Camp this summer during the August meeting.

Across

1. Leaves

3. Pumpkin Patch

5. Corn Maze

6. Sweater

8. Cider Down

2. Scarecrow

4. Hayride

Al Michalczak

Mission-Alamo will honor pioneers in September

SAN ANTONIO – Mission-Alamo Lodge will meet on Sunday, Sept. 21. Pioneers will be honored. RSVP by Sept. 12 to Joyce Knuepper, 210-508-5624.

The lodge will celebrate Halloween at the Oct. 12 meeting and members are encouraged to wear costumes. Also on the agenda is the election of officers and the election of delegates for the 2026 Hermann Sons Life Convention.

Save the date for Nov. 16 for the 2nd Annual Cookies with Santa event. Kids can visit and take photos with Santa and there will also be crafts and snacks.

The lodge picnic was held Aug. 9 at Hilltop Camp in Comfort. Members enjoyed hamburgers, hot dogs and swimming. Thank you to the lifeguards for their time providing safety. Campers Avery and Hayden Martinez were recognized.

Members mourn the loss of esteemed members Edward R. Finck Jr. and Jackalyn J. Oertel.

The lodge donated $1,000 to the Kerr County Flood Relief Fund.

At the July meeting, members wore red, white, and blue, and had a fun white elephant gift exchange.

The lodge welcomed new member Marcus Allen Taylor.

Members mourned the loss of members Don E. Burkhart, Hugh Tuttle and Susan Kerber.

Birthday celebrants recognized were Carter Cline, Shelley

Mission-Alamo Lodge July birthday celebrants were, from left, Shelley Gray, Diane Cline and Carter Cline pictured with Financial Secretary Carol Swan.

Gray and Diane Cline. J.R. and Joyce Knuepper celebrated an anniversary in June.

The attendance prize name

drawn

July and the Fourth of July. Pictured are Lena Luers, Joyce Kneupper, Dianne

Cline, Shannon Swan, Dorothy Breezee, Mandy Chaney with Rivke Chaney, Terry Swan, Kathy Wilson and Diane Cline.

– Reporter

El Campo awards scholarships

EL CAMPO – El Camp Lodge will meet on Thursday, Oct. 24, at 6:30 p.m.

There were no meetings held in April or June due to family illnesses.

At the August meeting, the lodge welcomed guest Brad Bacak of El Campo.

A moment of silence was observed in memory of the Hill Country flood victims. Members voted to donate $500 to the Kerr County Flood Relief Fund. The lodge received nine

scholarship applications from El Campo High School seniors.

Scholarships totaling $5,870 were awarded to Bryan Cisneros, $200; Cadence Dornak, $300; James Dorotik, $200; Eliana Fonseca, $925; Yensenia Gutierrez, $200; Cami Riha, $300; Angelena Solis, $900; Cole Srubar, $200; Seth Tumlinson, $1,100 and Dayton Zabodyn, $1,545.

Junior members in grades 9, 10 and 11 that take part in the scholarship fundraiser earn half of the amount sold in tickets

while seniors earn 100% of their ticket sales. Congratulations to each of these recipients!

Birthday celebrants were recognized and included Mya Medrano, Makayla Medrano, Amanda Hernandez, Kasey Burns, Lisa Medrano, Barrett Hailey, Samuel Hernandez and Everly Hailey.

Door prizes winners were Samuel Hernandez, Amanda Hernandez, Kim Hailey, Everly Hailey, Barrett Hailey and Jennifer Burns. – Reporter

Mission-Alamo Lodge recognized June anniversary celebrants J.R. and Joyce Knuepper.

Karnes City plans ribbon cutting and open house

KARNES CITY –Karnes City Lodge will hold a ribbon cutting and open house on Friday, Aug. 29, at the lodge hall, 120 Market St. The ribbon cutting and dedication will be held at 4:30 p.m. following open house.

Raffle items will be on display, and the drawing will be held at 7 p.m.

Lodge members are excited about the new renovations and the hall’s contributions to the community.

– Reporter

was Christine Teach who was not in attendance.

Mission-Alamo Lodge held the annual picnic at Hilltop Camp and presented a camp donation. Pictured are, from left, Financial Secretary Carol Swan, staff member Brenda Gunnink and President Diane Cline.

Mission-Alamo Lodge members donned red, white and blue to celebrate Christmas in

Larned, Jack Larned, Lee Vogel, Katherine Hines, Erline Packham, Denise Wright, Carol Swan, Bernice Vogel, Kirby

Mission-Alamo Lodge recognized campers at the August picnic. Pictured is Financial Secretary Carol Swan, center, with campers Hayden Martinez and Avery Martinez.

Spring Branch pioneers receive membership pins

BULVERDE – Spring Branch Lodge will meet on Sunday, Sept. 21, at 1:30 p.m. at the Bulverde Community Center.

At the July meeting, President and CEO Robin Czarnek and husband Dave were in attendance and Robin presented 60-, 70and 75-year membership pins.

Robin shared future plans, hopes and expectations for the future of Hermann Sons Life. Our organization is doing its best to honor old traditions but we also have to modernize to keep up with new laws and requirements. She advised members the HSL convention is planned for the spring of 2026 which will give members an opportunity to make decisions in the best interest of our organization.

The lodge welcomed one new junior member.

President Sharon Knibbe reported members donated more than $380 in cash to Provisions Outreach Food Bank in Bulverde and collected and donated more than 289 pounds of personal hygiene items and toiletries. Provisions was very grateful for the donations.

Birthday celebrants were Avery Johnson, Gloria Gass, Alverne Halloran and Ty Schaeferkoeter.

Chad and Elizabeth Schaeferkoeter recently celebrated an anniversary, 24 years.

Door prize winners were Chuck Knibbe, Robin Czarnek, Sunda Weidner, David Czarnek, Sharon Knibbe, Gloria Gass, Charlie Meckel, Susie Kuebel, Alverne Halloran, Elizabeth Schaeferkoeter and Charlotte Acker. – Reporter

Fort Worth Lodge member Henley Baker, left, was a first year CIT at HSL Camp this summer and little sister Elsa attended camp the same week.

Fort Worth to meet Sept. 7

FORT WORTH – Fort Worth Lodge will meet Sunday, Sept. 7, at Miranda’s Mexican Restaurant at 327 S. Burleson Blvd. in Burleson.

Several junior members attended Hermann Sons Life Camp this summer. Hope to see them at the September meeting so they can share their experiences.

Renee Rudloff-Baker has sent out letters to graduating seniors and campers about the lodge’s new scholarships. If your eligible junior has not received a letter, please contact Renee at 972522-9687.

Kypfer-Salge hosts bunco parties

NEW BRAUNFELS – KypferSalge Lodge will meet on Friday, Sept. 5. Doors open at 6 p.m. dinner is at 7 p.m. and the meeting begins at 7:30 p.m. The lodge will provide brisket and sausage plates from Granzin’s Barbecue, and members are asked to bring a dessert.

The monthly Bunco parties are still going strong. Come on out and have some fun on the third Friday of each month. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the games begin at 7:30 p.m. Bring a snack and your favorite drink. It only costs $5 to enter and you may go home with a little cash in your pocket for High Bunco, High Games and even Low Games.

– Reporter

Reaching membership milestones are Ronald Walters, 50 years on Sept. 7; Jamye Osborne, 60 years on Sept. 21 and David Dornberg, 60 years on Sept. 5. Congratulations! Happy anniversary to Cathy and Kerry Freeman, 22 years. Get-well wishes go out to Kerry Freeman and Sam Jones. Happy birthday to Chris Andries, Kecia Andries, Robert Balmos, Micah Billingsley, Sean Donohue, Kerry Freeman, Darlene Jones, Sandra Jones, Shannon Jones, Zachary Kime, Barbara Russell-Hartgraves, Lance Voss, Annika Wagner, Mark Wagner, Scott Wagner and Finley Wood. We wish you all good health and happiness.

At the August meeting, Kery Noble celebrated a birthday and celebrating their 51st wedding

Anniversary celebrants Lee and Sharon Zillmann were recognized at the August meeting of Kypfer-Salge Lodge.

Kypfer-Salge Lodge recognized birthday celebrant Kery Noble at the August meeting.

anniversary were Lee and Sharon Zillmann. Attendance prizes winners were Kathy Noble, Danny Lammert, Kathy Mosher, Oran Koepp and Dennis Koepp.

For hall rental information, please call 830-624-9891 or visit the lodge Facebook page. – Reporter

Membership pins were presented during the July meeting. Pictured are, from left, Charlotte Faye Acker, 70 years; Charles Joe (Charlie) Meckel, 60 years; Keith Wade Weidner, 60 years; Sandra Ann Duncan, 75 years; Phyllis A. Havens, 70 years; President and CEO Robin Czarnek and Maurine E. Johnson, 75 years.

Spring Branch Lodge recognized anniversary celebrants Chad and Elizabeth Schaeferkoeter in July.

Spring Branch Lodge recognized June and July birthdays celebrants, Avery Johnson, Gloria Gass, Alverne Halloran and Ty Schaeferkoeter at the July meeting.

Gulf Lodge helps Everybody’s Place furnish homes

LEAGUE CITY – Gulf Lodge members voted at the June meeting to furnish homes for Everybody’s Place – Agape Village, an organization that provides housing for the homeless.

Through research, price-effective products were purchased enabling the lodge to donate furnishing for 15 homes for Everybody’s Place – Agape Village. The donations will completely furnish the kitchens and bathrooms. Once the homes are complete and residents are selected (around November 2025), the lodge still has a remaining project budget to furnish bedding for the homes.

Everybody’s Place is the only place in Galveston County that will house families who are experiencing homelessness. Everybody’s Place will house 15 families. When the homes are complete, there will be five of each one bedroom, two bedroom and three-bedroom homes. They will provide services to help families get on their feet. Currently, in Galveston County, families are split up when going into shelters so many choose to live in their cars or tents. Everybody’s Place provides permanent, supportive housing. For more information:

https://everybodysplace.net/ – Reporter

Gulf Lodge has purchased items to furnish kitchens and bathrooms in homes provided by Everybody’s Place – Agape Village for homeless families. Members Charles Head, with guest Chris Rollo, Rick Huepers, Brenda and David Smith and Loretta Derrick, loaded up the items and transported them to the village.

Stern Lodge presents scholarship

Stern Lodge recognized campers at the August meeting. Pictured are, from left, Meyer Boeder, Paisley Engelke, August Engelke, Briell May and Kayla May. The lodge sponsored each of the juniors’ camp sessions.

Stern Lodge awarded a $600 scholarship to Sammy Bode. Sammy graduated from Seguin High School with a 4.0 GPA. He will attend Texas Lutheran University this fall to pursue a degree in kinesiology. He is pictured, on left, with President Rick May and Secretary Brandi May, and on right, with Candace Holmes Scholarship Committee member and Brandi.

Round Top will participate in fall VFD fundraiser

ROUND TOP – Round Top Lodge will meet Thursday, Sept. 25, at 6:30 p.m.

At the July meeting, President Linda Mattocks reported there was no flooding at the camp sites or injuries, only road closings during the July floods in the Hill Country.

A monetary donation will be sent to the Home Office for the

Kerr County Flood Relief Fund.

A discussion on community service and lodge donations was held. The lodge will hold a country store in October at the Ledbetter Fire Department’s fundraiser.

The lodge has participated in CASA collections for children from birth to age 18 for many years and will again collect

Lockhart donates to fund

LOCKHART – The next meeting of Lockhart Lodge is Sunday, Nov. 2.

At the August meeting, members voted to donate to the Kerr County Flood Relief Fund.

A moment of silence was observed for Felix Frank Till, who died May 16, 2025, at the age of 98. Felix had been a mem-

ber since October 1989. Ray Pfefferkorn read a thank you note for the donation to the Grief Support Camp in memory of Felix.

The lodge recognized anniversary celebrants Ray and Debbie Pfefferkorn

Door prize winners were Ray, Karen Buckner and Debbie. – Reporter

Louise Schuetze meets Sept. 8

items and gift cards starting in October. A presentation to CASA is planned for the Christmas party on Dec. 14.

A moment of silent prayer was observed for Floyd Braun, 92, who passed away July 15. A memorial donation was given in his honor to Martin Luther Lutheran Church of Carmine.

Happy birthday was sung to

Valgene who celebrated in July.

Members gave a round of applause for Norwood Hackemack who never missed a meeting at Shelby Lodge and after the merger, now attends Round Top Lodge meetings coming from Pecan Grove.

Attendance prizes winners were Roy Pieper, Bob Porter, Leonard Meinkowksy, Carmen

Ebner and Linda. Thanks to Sophie Rauch for assisting.

A big thank you to the new Serving Committee of Mary, Melanie and Sophie Rauch, Bob and Betty Porter and Valgene and Carmen Ebner. The lunch was delicious.

Everyone enjoyed refreshments, lunch and fellowship. – Reporter

Niederwald Lodge will meet on Sept. 2

Betty Duesterheft and Joe Hennig won door prizes at the Niederwald Lodge August meeting. The lodge will meet on Tuesday, Sept. 2. Members are asked to wear black in observance of National POW MIA Recognition Day and 9/11 in September.

McGregor to present Humanitarian Award

Hope to see everyone there for this special occasion. – Reporter

SAN ANTONIO – Louise Schuetze Lodge will celebrate its 129th anniversary on Monday, Sept. 8, in the Rathskeller at 6:30 p.m. The lodge will provide dinner. For more information, call Janet Abell at 210-363-4022 or Carol Grill at 956-821-7052

Fredericksburg meets Sept. 2

FREDERICKSBURG – Fredericksburg Lodge will meet on Tuesday, Sept. 2, at 6 p.m. at the lodge. Dinner will be fried chicken, and members are asked to bring a side dish.

Please mark your calendar for the Oct. 7 meeting. Discussion will be held regard-

ing the possible sale of the lodge building and property.

Members met on Aug. 5 at Catfish Haven for social time and dinner.

Celebrating birthdays in August were Steven Weinheimer and Lilly Smothers. – Robert Beckmann

Columbus will meet Oct. 13

COLUMBUS – Columbus Lodge will meet on Monday, Oct. 13, at 6 p.m. at Schobels’ Restaurant. The election of officers will be held.

At the August meeting, the Finance Committee reported the books had been checked and were in order.

A get-well card was sent to Rhanda Lattimore.

Birthday celebrants in July and August were Herman Brune, Helen Hammack, Nora

Lou Peeler, Paige Sebesta, Anne Dimas, Lynn Buxkamper, Nicholas Leopold, Carolyn Renz, Constance Sebesta, Christopher Wienken, Alex Fritsch, Ryan Peters, Henry Smahlich, Dawnah Pina, Jessica Johnson, Stephen Ashorn and Kevin Lilie.

Anniversary celebrants were Bill and Rhanda Lattimore, 40 years; and Adrian and Virginia Fritsch, 69 years. – Reporter

McGREGOR – McGregor Lodge will meet Tuesday, Oct. 7, at 5 p.m. at Rancher’s Steakhouse in Gatesville. A September meeting will not be held.

The next meeting is Tuesday, Nov. 4, at 5 p.m. at Luigi’s in Waco. The Humanitarian of the Year Award will be presented.

Members met at Rancher’s Steakhouse for the August meeting. President Doris Mooney read thank you notes from Emma Knox and Emily Velin for the scholarships they were awarded for their college expenses. They

are wished the very best. Condolences and prayers go out to the Marvin Schwettmann family on the passing of his wife, Margaret. She is also Doris’ sisterin-law.

Happy birthday to all August and September friends and members celebrating another year. They are wished many more.

Lucky door prize winners were Jerome Weinstrom, Regenia Arseneaux and Doris.

Members are urged to contact members who may not be get-

ting the HSL newspaper through the mail or email. Members need to contact the Home Office of how they would like to receive the newspaper.

Members are also reminded to contact the Home Office for change of addresses, any other information changes or to report a deceased family member. It is very important member information is up to date.

Members and guest enjoyed a delicious meal of choice and fellowship.

– Doris Mooney

Houston members volunteer at food bank

HOUSTON – Houston Lodge will meet Monday, Sept. 8, at Don Jose’s, 5305 Antoine Dr. The Domino game of 42 will be played again before the meeting. If you are interested in playing or learning to play 42, please arrive at 5 p.m. Of course, anyone wanting to play straight dominoes may also come and enjoy the fun.

At the July meeting, members voted to donate $500 to

the Kerr County Flood Relief Fund.

Lodge members volunteered at the Houston Food Bank on Aug. 9. Members will also work the morning shift on Oct. 25 in observance of Make a Difference Day, and a monetary donation will also be presented.

Agent Gary Falkenberg reported camp was not in session during the July flooding in the Hill Country and there was no

damage at HSL Camp reported. He also said the Houston area is in need of more agents and encouraged everyone to recruit new members.

Happy Birthday was sung to Sheila Lee.

Rebecca Rabon was on the sick list.

Several members enjoyed games of 42 before the meeting.

Gay Hill Lodge will meet Oct. 2

Gay Hill Lodge awarded a scholarship to Jaden Mertz, left, pictured with President Stanley Klekar, at the August meeting. The lodge will meet on Thursday, Oct. 2, at 6 p.m. at the Burton Short Stop.

Celebrating birthdays at the Gay Hill Lodge August meeting were Eli Klekar, Bobby Lehde and Jessica Mertz. Lance and Holly Lehde celebrated an anniversary. The Cheer Committee reported sending get well cards to David Roehling, Marvin Fischer and Jaden Mertz.

Boerne plans to meet Sept. 5

BOERNE – Boerne Lodge will meet on Friday, Sept. 5, at 11:30 a.m. at The Center.

At the August meeting the lodge welcomed new member, Isaac Martinez.

Marilyn Vogt read correspondence from the Home Office thanking the lodge for a memorial donation to the Grief Support Camp in honor of Harvey Vogt.

The lodge expresses their condolences to the family of Sam Franklin. A memorial donation was made to the Grief Support Camp in his honor.

Barbara D’Spain read correspondence from the Home Office informing members of the tragic and devastating flooding

Brenham fundraiser set for Oct. 17

BRENHAM – Brenham Lodge will meet Friday, Sept. 12. Pizza will be served.

Mark your calendars for the next fundraiser on Friday, Oct. 17. This will be a sit-down meal of pork steak with sides at the lodge hall starting at 5 p.m. and is open to members and the public. More details to come.

At the August meeting, members enjoyed hamburgers prepared by the 006-cooking team. A short meeting followed.

It was reported Thursday night bingo games continue to be successful with a large turn-

out of members and the public.

Agent Gary Falkenberg gave a report on the new Multi-Year Guaranteed Annuity (MYGA) that has interest rates now reaching as high as 5.4%. There are 3- and 5-year options. Contact Gary for more information.

Gary said a recent edition of the “Houston Chronicle” reported Hermann Sons Life Camp is one of nine summer camps in Kerr County that meets the requirements of the American Camp Association.

Door prizes winners were Todd Hertel and Ashley Fehrle.

At the July meeting, it was

reported there was no flood damage or injuries reported at HSL camp and there were no campers on the grounds at the time of the July flooding in the Hill Country.

Members were reminded the lodge still needs more new members to reach its 2025 goal.

Recent lodge deaths include Delores A. Gaskamp and Herbert H. Thiel, Jr. The lodge extends its sympathy to the family and friends.

Door prize winners were Mark Boeker and Doris Falkenberg. – Reporter

New Braunfels donates vintage banners

NEW BRAUNFELS – New Braunfels Lodge will meet Sunday, Sept. 7. Dave and Robin Czarnek will host a barbecue supper, and members are asked to bring sides and/or desserts.

At the August meeting, Robin, HSL President and CEO, gave updates from the Home Office and on the camp sites following the July flooding in the Hill Country. She also spoke of the proposed tax abatement for the New Braunfels Home Association as there has not been any information from the IRS. It was reported the original lodge banner will be given to the Sophienburg Museum of New Braunfels.

that transpired on July 4 in the Hill Country. In response the lodge voted to make a $500 donation to the Kerr County Flood Relief Fund.

Happy Birthday wishes were extended to Esther Faecher and Don D’Spain.

Congratulations to Don and Barbara D’Spain who celebrated their 58th wedding anniversary on Aug. 5.

Members were asked to begin thinking of a candidate for the Humanitarian of the Year Award. Nominations will be accepted at the next monthly meeting.

Debra Martin was the winner of four-corner bingo and received an HEB gift card.

– Reporter

Celebrating birthdays were Connie Krause, Violet Tanneberger, Michael Huebinger and Jolene Meuret. Ceretta and Tommy Daum celebrated 55 years of marriage.

The original New Braunfels Lodge banners have been given to the Sophienburg Museum of New Braunfels.

A Resolution of Respect was read for Sally Fisher and Dorothy Moose.

Attendance prize winners were Leroy Brotze, Violet Tanneberger, Martha and Amanda Tolle, Janice and Phillip Neff, Connie Krause, Debbie and Jerome Vetter, Leola Stolte, Martha Rehler and Tommy Daum. Tommy hosted a fried chicken supper served after games and refreshments.

– Reporter

Dallas members receive membership pins

DALLAS – Dallas Lodge will meet Sunday, Sept. 28, at 1 p.m. at the hall. Everyone is encouraged to attend for food, drinks and fellowship.

President Brigitte Robinson welcomed members at the July

27 meeting. Terri Holmes, Steve Schellenberg and Eva Day gave reports.

Membership pins have been mailed to members John M. Hudson Jr. of Arlington, 70 years; David D. Bernhard of Pueblo, Co., 60 years; Robert J. Pancoast, of Carnation, WA., 70 years; and Cynthia C. Robinson of Grand Prairie, 60 years. Everyone enjoyed the food and drinks.

– Reporter

Columbia members participate in community events

DALLAS – Hello again from North Texas! Columbia Lodge will meet on Sunday, Sept. 7.

The annual Oktoberfest will be held on Saturday, Oct. 11, at the hall. Dallas’ premier Germanstyle band, Frohsinn Kapelle, will be playing and, of course, there will be German food. It’s always a fun time celebrating German culture and our hall’s roots.

The lodge is happy and humbled to have members who are passionate about community.

The lodge started July off with the annual Christmas in July event where more than 50 attendees enjoyed four live music acts and a barbecue dinner. More importantly and dear to us were the funds raised and the generous toy donations for the Larry Tutson, Jr. Foundation. If you want to know more about this foundation and how to donate or volunteer, visit their website at: thelarrytutsonjrfoundation.com.

July ended with members volunteering for Resource Center’s Youth First for their Family Splash Day, the lodge’s Join Hands Day project. More than 75 parents and their children played on water slides with soap bubbles floating about, worked on crafts

and made sidewalk chalk art. Also joining was a local support group for teens. We’re excited to know about these contacts and hope to volunteer with them in the future. If you want to learn more about Resource Center and how to help, visit myresourcecenter.org.

For Make a Difference Day, members will help set up Resource Center’s bingo and then attend the event to further support them. Come to the September meeting to discuss other

Dunlay Lodge recognizes anniversary celebrants

Dunlay Lodge members Leonard and Georgia Saathoff and Katherine and Morris Baxter celebrated wedding anniversaries in July. Leonard, who became a member of Dunlay Lodge on Sept. 18, 1957, and Georgia Saathoff were married on July 17, 1965, 60 years ago. Morris and Katherine Baxter who became members on July 1, 2008, were married on July 27, 1957, 68 years ago. Both couples regularly attend the monthly lodge meetings held the third Tuesday of each month.

community service ideas.

The updated calendar for 2025 includes meeting dates on Sept. 7, Oct. 5, Nov. 2 (followed by the Thanksgiving potluck dinner), and Dec. 7 (followed by the Christmas party). Events include Make a Difference Day, TBD, and the Larry Tutson, Jr. Foundation Toy Giveaway in December.

A memorial for Glenn Marvin at the hall is planned. We will keep you posted on details.

– Cecilia Phillips

Rutersville will meet on Sept. 3

Rutersville Lodge junior Brylee Brugger shared her camp experience with members at the August meeting. She showed the leather crafts she created during her session.

recognized

LA GRANGE – Rutersville Lodge will meet on Wednesday, Sept. 3, at 7 p.m.

At the August meeting, camper Brylee Brugger shared her summer camp experience with members and exhibited leather crafts she created at camp.

Agent Kyle Hartmann reviewed the new HSL Multi-Year Guaranteed Annuity (MYGA) product with members.

Birthday celebrant David Noak was recognized.

Attendance-prize winners were Laura Brugger, Albert Loehr, Nancy Krueger, Larry Tietjen and Karen Rosenbaum. Everyone enjoyed a dinner of grilled hot dogs with sides and desserts.

– Sherrie Terronez

For its Join Hands Day project, Columbia Lodge members volunteered at the Resource Center’s Youth First Family Splash Day. Pictured are Claire Taitte, Jeremiah Arauco, Barbara Avery, Amanda Hobbs, Cecilia Phillips, Allen and Ok Hwa Hare.

Gregg Smith and his dancers are rockin’ to some heavy blues provided by Texas Slim and his band at the Columbia Lodge Christmas in July event.

A touching moment is captured at the Columbia Lodge Christmas in July event as Barbara Smith comforts Mary Wilbanks, Bobby Wilbanks and Debra Hundley regarding Glenn Marvin’s passing.

Rutersville Lodge

birthday celebrant David Noak at the August meeting.

Prinz Solms donates to ‘Meant to Soar’ program

BULVERDE – Prinz Solms Lodge will meet Sept. 14, at 5 p.m. at the Bulverde Community Center.

At the August meeting, Elsa Ezell with Meant to Soar gave a presentation. The Meant to Soar organization supports children ages 6-13 in Bexar and Comal Counties, who have experienced the trauma of parental drug addiction or trafficking. It also works with grandparents who are raising grandchildren who have been impacted by addicted parents. The lodge

presented a donation to Ezell for the organization.

The lodge also donated to the Kerr County Flood Relief Fund.

Members voted to place a memorial bench in honor of Cliff and Audrey Klabunde under a shade tree at the Lutheran Church Cemetery.

Jackie Oldfield announced that the next S.T.A.G.E. theater presentation will be the “Sunshine Boys” in October.

Members enjoyed a chicken dinner with sides and desserts. – Reporter

Deanville to host benefit dinner

CALDWELL – Deanville Lodge will host the annual benefit roast beef drive through dinner on Sunday, Sept. 21, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Plates are $15. The event benefits Hospice Brazos Valley.

At the July meeting, President Donnie Blinka expressed his appreciation to the members and everyone in the community who helped make the annual 4th of July a very successful event.

The lodge will donate to the Kerr County Flood Relief Fund. Members expressed condolences for all victims of the July 4th floods.

The lodge was one of many sponsors at the Burleson County “Back to School Blast” held on Aug. 5. Members gave out approximately 375 glue sticks to students. The lodge is proud to sponsor this event hosted by Burleson County Agri-Life. The lodge also donated glue sticks for the Burleson County

Deanville Lodge participated in the Burleson County “Back to School Blast” and gave out 375 glue sticks to students. Participants were Barbara Smith, Beverly Blinka, Tommy Ryan and Debby Schumacher, not pictured.

“Stuff a Bus” event held on Aug. 11. Following the meeting, members enjoyed food and fellowship.

The next meeting was scheduled for Aug. 31 at 2 p.m.

– Reporter

14

Austin Lodge pioneer receives 75-year pin

Donna Jean Grimm, center, received her 75-year membership pin during the Austin Lodge August meeting from President Ed Kurtz, assisted by Donna’s granddaughter, Brittney Carter. Donna has been a member since Aug. 28, 1950.

PAIGE – Paige Lodge will meet on Sunday, Sept. 14, at 12 p.m.

Members will provide a salad lunch with sides and desserts.

At the August meeting, happy birthday was sung to Janice Bil-

berry. Troy Kunkel won the $20 attendance prize; Ronnie Harmon won the dollar pot and Frank Bilberry won the Miracle Plant drawing.

A memorial was sent to the HSL

Youth Camp Shannon Leigh Gaffney Scholarship Fund in memory of Evelyn Loewe. Everyone enjoyed a pizza lunch with many delicious desserts.

– Pat Abell

Prinz Solms Lodge President Russell Boss presents a donation to Elsa Ezell with the Meant to Soar organization during the August meeting.

Prinz Solms Lodge recognized birthday celebrant Russell Boss at the July meeting.

Austin Lodge member Donna Jean Grimm received her 75-year membership pin at the August meeting. She is pictured with family members who attended the special occasion.

Kirby Lodge plans senior bingo event for October

KIRBY – Kirby Lodge will meet Sept. 8 at 7 p.m. The main dish will be provided, and members are asked to bring side dishes and desserts.

The lodge’s anniversary meeting will be held on Oct. 6 at 7 p.m. A catered meal will be served. If planning to attend, RSVP to either Tammy Haecker or Andra Fore.

The lodge will sponsor senior bingo for the Kirby community on Oct. 19 at 2 p.m. in observance of Make a Difference

Day. More information will be provided at the September meeting.

Lodge members who volunteered at the True Vision Church food bank for Join Hands Day received certificates of appreciation from the church. Thanks to those who helped make this event a success.

Birthday celebrants were Linda Lambrecht, Carolina McQuatters and James McQuatters.

Celebrating anniversaries

won split-the-pot at the August meeting of Anton Wenzel Lodge.

were Samantha and Jonathan Kelley, four years, and Linda and Carroll Gloor, 46 years.

Split-the-pot winners were James McQuatters, Caroline Worsham, Glenda Bayer, Julie Lyssey and Keary Lambrecht.

Door prize winners were Andra Fore, Carroll Gloor, Samantha Kelley, Carolina McQuatters, Judy Schulmeier, Julie Lyssey and Glenda Bayer. Andra Fore won the $30 attendance prize.

– Andra Fore

Anton Wenzel Lodge recognized anniversary celebrants Edward and Paula Reid, 18 years, at the August meeting. The lodge will meet on Wednesday, Sept. 3. Fried chicken will be served, and members are asked to provide side dishes.

Rosenberg Richmond to meet Oct. 13

ROSENBERG – Rosenberg Richmond Lodge will meet on Monday, Oct. 13, at 7 p.m. Lasagna will be served, and members are asked to bring a dessert.

Members enjoyed ice cream and a game night at the August meeting. Servers were Loyce Anderson and Fred Maynard. Max Frels gave the blessing.

Membership Coordinator Eppie Kostak reported get-well cards were sent to Lavonne Stavinoha, Wayne Schmidt and Jane Maynard. A sympathy card was sent to the family of Bernard Wendel. Members observved a moment of silence in honor of Bernard.

– Loyce Anderson

and guest

Siemering Lodge announces engagement

SAN ANTONIO – Siemering Lodge is thrilled to share joyful news – lodge Secretary, Christian Lee has become engaged with Jessica Barrera, who recently became a proud member of Siemering Lodge herself!

Christian and Jessica will be tying the knot in a uniquely themed “Hallowedding” celebration on Oct. 31. Excitement is brewing among our members as we count down to the big day. The lodge family extends heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to the happy couple as they prepare for their future together.

Christian is a fifth-generation Hermann Son Life member carrying on a legacy of family involvement in the organization. His ties trace back to his greatgreat-grandfather, Albert Kuebel, and great-grandfather, Hilmer Kuebel, both devoted Hermann Sons Life members whose freundschaft, liebe und

Barrera.

treue continue to inspire. With Christian’s deep heritage in the lodge and Jessica’s warm welcome into our ranks, this engagement is a beautiful blending of tradition and new beginnings. Members join in celebrating this special chapter in their lives – proving once again that Hermann Sons Life is not just an organization, but a family.

– Reporter

Pershing plans memorial service for September

SAN ANTONIO – Pershing Lodge will meet on Wednesday, Sept. 3, at 7 p.m. The annual memorial service honoring members who have passed will be held.

All members are asked to bring food to share with invited

guests. All are invited, please call 210-227-3085 if planning to attend.

In late August, dinner at the Outback Steakhouse was planned for dinner and fellowship.

– Reporter

Kirby Lodge members received certificates of appreciation from True Vision Church for volunteering at its food bank in observance of Join Hands Day.

Anton Wenzel to meet on Sept. 3

Cynthia Barbosa, pictured with President Edward Elizondo,

Siemering Lodge officer Christian Lee has announced his engagement to member Jessica

Members

celebrating birthdays in July and August at the Rosenberg Richmond Lodge were Cathy Winsor, Larry Vyvial, Jane Maynard, Sharon Vyvial and Annie Zak.