Lay a solid foundation
with SP6
A solid financial foundation requires the right building blocks for the right job. Gleaner’s new Foundation SP6, a single-premium deferred annuity, can be a great financial solution for lump sums like settlements, inheritances and 401(k) rollovers. By depositing a one-time initial premium, you can watch your money grow tax-deferred with the power of compounding interest.
Foundation SP6 features • Flexible withdrawals of up to 10% of the account value per certificate year without incurring a surrender charge. • Guaranteed minimum interest rate of 1.5% in certificate years 1-6 and 1% in subsequent years. • Minimum initial premium of $10,000 and no subsequent premiums. Start laying a solid foundation for your financial future. To learn more about Foundation SP6, contact your Gleaner representative, listed on the back of this publication.
Certificate Surrender Year Charge 1 2 3 4 5 6 7+
6% 5% 4% 3% 2% 1% 0%
Gleaner Life Insurance Society is domiciled in Adrian, Michigan, and licensed in AZ, FL, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MI, MO, NE, OH, TN and VA. The Gleaner Life Foundation Series form number: ICC15-SPDA6 with state-specific variations.
Contents Summer 2015 | V. 120 | No. 3
10
15
12 In this issue 4 Report of the Nominating Committee 4 Meet the Candidates for Gleaner’s Board of Directors
12 Make the most of your talents by volunteering 14 Frank Dick publishes memoir 15
Welcome, new arbors!
7 Report of the Law Committee
17 Purchase discounted children’s books
10 Gleaner’s 57th Biennial Convention in Schaumburg, Illinois
24 Privacy Notice
14 Forum Magazine \ Summer 2015 \ 1
FORUM
Contents | Summer 2015 | V. 120 | No. 3
Summer 2015 / V. 120 / No. 3 National Officers Kevin A. Marti, FSA, CLU, ChFC President and CEO Jeffrey S. Patterson, FLMI Senior Vice President, CFO, Secretary and Treasurer Administrative Officers D. Arell Chapman, CRISC
22
Vice President, Information Technology Daniel L. Gordon, FICF, CRPC® Vice President of Agency and Marketing Janet A. Goulart, CSA Vice President, Human Resources, Administration and Assistant Secretary Sherry L. Nino Vice President, Fraternal Operations
In every issue 3
From the president
13
Share your stories
14
50- & 75-year members
16
Thank-you letters
18
Arbors in action BUSIN FIRST CLASS
the enclosed postcards. We look forward to hearing from you!
ADRIAN, MI
Recipe File
21
Korinne’s Korner
Gleaner Life Insu
rance Society . Highway 223 P.O. Box 1894 Adrian, MI 492 21-7894
520 0 West U.S
Forum_Postcar
Wally D. Taylor, FALU, CLU, ChFC, FLMI Senior Vice President of Insurance Operations Board of Directors Suann D. Hammersmith, Chair Terry L. Garner, Vice Chair Richard J. Bennett / Margaret M.S. Noe David E. Sutton / Todd M. Warner
NO POSTAGE NECESSARY IF MAILED IN THE UNITED STATES
ESS REPLY MAIL PERMIT NO. 1894 MAIL
20
22
Don't forget to fill out
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Benny’s Page er2015.indd 2
Mark A. Wills / Frank Dick, Chairman Emeritus
Share your stor y with us! What are your favorite fall acti vities?
We want to hear from you! The next issue of Forum favorite fall activi Magazine will ties. To tell us featu re our memb your favorite fall ers’ it back to Glean activity, comp lete this postcard er. You can also and mail send an emai l to marketing @gle anerl ife.org. _______________ _______________ _______________ _____ _______________ _______________ _______________ _______________ ________ _______________ _______________ _______________ _______________ _______________ _____________ _______________ _______________ _______________ _______________ _______________ _____________ _______________ _______________ _______________ _______________ _______________ _____________ _______________ _______________ _______________ _______________ _______________ _____________ _______________ _______________ Your Name: _____ _______________ _______________ _____ ________ _______________ _______________ City: __________ _______________ _______________ ____________ _______________ _______________ _ State: _____ _______________ _
LIFE ission for
Supreme Arbor Officers Sharon Knox, Supreme Chief Gleaner Connie Bland, Supreme Vice Chief Gleaner Jeff Price, Supreme Chaplain Dick Hadden, Supreme Conductor Norma Garner, Supreme Guard
®
of the awareness nt to create ds by a commitme life insurance nee personal iew of my6/23/2015 1:12:37 making a like a rev PM form, I am also this ld g wou mailin ge. I ____ ting and ce covera _________ e By comple life insuran _________ Last Nam adequate _________ need for ative. _________ represent _________ . Gleaner M.I _ _________ _________ _________ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ Zip _________ _________ f/referral) _________ State e (sel _________ First Nam _________ ____ City _________ _________ _________ ___ ___ ___ ___ ___ _________ _________ ress _________ Street Add it _________ Gleaner Spir _________ Email uding the _________ Society incl _________ rmation.) Insurance _________ aner Life contact info
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the ______ k cover of _________ on the bac ® _________ Agent Name (listed _________ for LIFE _________ our Mission ions will _________ through nat you refer al food bank. Do _________ (if applicable) er mb 5. By family me $10 to a nation Referred eived in 201 rec friend or ate ry rral don l eve refe wil For life.org for every Gleaner @gleaner program, be paid quarterly 35) | mfl 5.1MFL (16 | 844.26 nerlife.org www.glea
Legal Reserve Fraternal Life Insurance Member American Fraternal Alliance Forum Magazine Staff Alanna Cook / Chuck Monahan Dan Gordon / Grier Edwards Salina Richards National Headquarters 5200 West U.S. Highway 223 P.O. Box 1894 Adrian, Michigan 49221-7894 p 517.263.2244 or 800.992.1894
Do you enjoy searching for Gleaner’s wheat stalk? It's hidden in every issue of Forum Magazine. Having difficulty finding the wheat stalk in this issue? Look on page 23 for the answer.
Forum Magazine is made from soy-based ink products and is recyclable. Make a small impact on conservation by recycling this publication or passing it on to a friend.
f 517.265.7745 www.gleanerlife.org gleaner@gleanerlife.org Hours Monday - Friday: 8 a.m. - 4:45 p.m. EST The National Gleaner Forum (USPS 373-2000) is published quarterly by Gleaner Life Insurance
2 \ Protecting families through life insurance since 1894. \ www.gleanerlife.org
Society 5200 West U.S. Hwy. 223, P.O. Box 1894 Adrian, MI 49221-7894
From the president Dear Members: Preparations for our 57th Biennial Convention at the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel are nearly complete as we begin the summer with Gleaner picnics and other events with family and friends. In this issue of Forum Magazine, you will find important information on the candidates for the three Board of Directors seats up for election or re-election. You will also find an important amendment to Gleaner’s Constitution and revisions to our By-Laws — the new Rules of Order for Arbors — shown on pages 7-9. The Rules of Order for Arbors were updated over the past several years through extensive work by Vice President of Fraternal Operations Sherry Nino and her team, retired Board Chair Bill Warner, current Board Chair Suann Hammersmith, along with a review by the Fraternal Advisory Council, among others. We urge you to support these well-thought-out changes, which will assure that our arbors will continue doing their good work with proper direction and oversight. I had the distinct pleasure of visiting several of our local arbors’ JOIN HANDS DAY volunteer efforts on May 2, 2015. Their hard work is an inspiration to us all. See the information provided on pages 18-19. Our minister at church is in the Navy Reserves as a chaplain. Their motto is “Vocati Ad Servitium” — “Called to Serve.” He is beginning a six- to nine-month tour of duty in Germany. The sacrifice he is making is awe-inspiring, too.
Senior Vice President of Insurance Operations Wally Taylor also recently led an impressive team of Gleaner employees and friends in both a spin-a-thon and the American Diabetes Association’s Tour de Cure, raising over $14,000 to benefit the ADA. Wally spun an impressive 326 miles in 14 hours during one part of this fundraising effort. Team Gleaner was one of Michigan’s leading teams this year and was the top corporate fundraising team. Congratulations on a magnificent result for a very worthwhile cause! We also congratulate our Chairman Emeritus Frank Dick on the publication of Do All The Good You Can … the Frank and Shirley Dick Story. We understand the initial supply of books went quickly — see page 14 for more information. Wishing you and yours a safe and sound summer of fun until our paths cross again. Thank you as always for being a valued member of the Society. Fraternally,
Kevin A. Marti President and CEO
The Gleaner Life Insurance Society Scholarship Foundation will again be awarding over $125,000 in scholarship funds to deserving recipients at our summer picnics. Because of a significant bequest we received on the recent passing of longtime Gleaner agent Fred Fountain, we are pleased to report that we will be increasing the funds available to scholarship recipients for 2016 and beyond! During May and June, Home Office employees committed to raising funds for the Wounded Warrior Project in conjunction with our annual Flag Day celebration by bicycling from the VFW hall in Tecumseh, Michigan, to our Home Office in Adrian. While our Flag Day celebration and bicycle ride were rained out, our cyclists still raised $994 for this worthwhile organization, which provides support for wounded veterans.
Forum Magazine \ Summer 2015 \ 3
Report of the Nominating Committee The Nominating Committee of Gleaner Life Insurance Society met at the Home Office in Adrian, Michigan, on May 17, 2015. Present were: Leo Knox, Bowling Green Arbor (OH); Ryan Rowe, Madison Arbor (MI); Julie Phillips, Rolling Prairie Arbor (IN); Linda Rutter, Stateline Arbor (MI); and Bill Warner, Heart of Florida Arbor (FL). Following the question-and-answer period, and after careful consideration, it is the unanimous opinion of the Committee that all four [Board of Directors] candidates are qualified and recommend that each appear and stand for election at the next biennial convention. Motion by Committee member Leo Knox and seconded by Committee member Julie Phillips. Upon vote, all were in favor.
Meet the candidates for Gleaner’s Board of Directors
The following four individuals were interviewed by Gleaner’s Nominating Committee and were selected for inclusion on the slate of candidates running for three open Board positions. The election for Gleaner’s Board of Directors will take place on Saturday, Oct. 24, 2015, at the 57th Biennial Convention in Schaumburg, Illinois. To see each candidate’s complete application for nomination and resume, visit www.gleanerlife.org/convention. •
Owner/president, Garner Construction and Garner Inc.
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LaPorte County Council (four terms)
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Hanna Township trustee and assessor (five terms)
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Sixty-year Gleaner member (nine with South County Arbor)
“Growing up, I was fortunate my parents and surrounding family instilled volunteering in me. At the time, we do not realize how or why they do certain things. But they took the time to take me and my sisters to functions even if we did not want to go, teaching us silently to be caring and giving of our time.”
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Hanna Township Volunteer Fire Department (30 years)
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LaPorte County Fair Board of Directors (14 years, eight as president)
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Treasurer, LaPorte County Republican Party (four years)
Occupation: Carpenter/ Construction, Business Owner
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Member, Davis Wesleyan Church
Experience:
About Terry Garner
•
Garner is a lifelong Gleaner member, belonging to South County Arbor.
Terry L. Garner
Gleaner Life Insurance Society Board of Directors (two terms, incumbent)
4 \ Protecting families through life insurance since 1894. \ www.gleanerlife.org
His grandfather was an agent, along with an uncle and cousin. “Family and friends are the most important things in life," Garner says. "Succeed in this, and your purpose is fulfilled.” While Garner is the current owner and president of Garner Construction and Garner Inc., his experience spreads beyond construction to organizations like the LaPorte County Fair Board and the LaPorte County Republican Party. He has also served as a local elected official on the LaPorte County Council and as Hanna Township trustee and assessor. Garner is committed to volunteering in order to help others who are less fortunate and to using his leadership positions to serve the community. He resides in Hanna, Indiana, with his wife, Susie. Garner gives three reasons why he would be an excellent Director for the Society: •
“I understand the private business sector by owning
•
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and running my own business for 18 years."
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Main Township Drainage Board of Directors
“[Being] an elected official for 30 years brings government understanding of society to the Board of Directors.”
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Trustee, Braceville Township Board
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Member, Coal City Lions Club
“As president/director of the LaPorte Fair Board, a nonprofit corporation, I bring knowledge of that sector as well.”
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Grundy County 4-H Livestock Committee
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Auction chairman, Friends of 4-H Committee
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Past chairman, Grundy County Extension Council
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Past chairman and member, Farmers Elect Committee (U.S. Department of Agriculture)
About Mark Wills
Mark A. Wills “I am proud to be a lifelong Gleaner. My father, Elvin Wills, also served as a board director for Gleaner. It is in my blood. Gleaner is a society that has been helping families with financial needs for more than 100 years. That is true respect of a solid fraternal insurance society. These benefits extend to 4-H programs, donations, scholarships, etc. Arbors have a chance to give back to their community and youth organizations. What better way to grow a lasting relationship between people and business. I am proud to be a member and serve on the Board of Directors.” Occupation: Farmer, Business Owner Experience: •
Gleaner Life Insurance Society Board of Directors (four terms, incumbent)
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Sterling Energy Group Board of Directors
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President, Sulphur Springs Arbor
Wills holds an associate's degree in agriculture from Joliet Junior College. He has served on a number of boards and manages three fulltime employees on his 2,400-acre grain farm and hog and cattle operation. Previously, Wills ran a successful Pioneer Seed agency for 30 years, with two employees and a customer base of 150. When asked to share what personal characteristics make him a suitable candidate for the Board of Directors, Wills referenced his integrity, respect and accountability: “When it comes to Gleaner and the other boards I serve on, I try to hold the best character in respect for the people and community I serve.” Wills describes himself as a caring, financially stable person who pledges to make the best decisions for Gleaner, placing members first and foremost. Wills resides in Coal City, Illinois, with his wife, Penny. He has five children: Crystal, 32; Kelley, 28; and Katie, 26; and two stepchildren, Emmy, 17, and Trevor, 15. Wills gives three reasons why he would be an excellent Director for the Society: •
“Concern for the Gleaner members is first and foremost.”
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“I feel I have the management skills to maintain a good bottom line for Gleaner.”
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“I have been on many boards for many years. I understand the roles and responsibilities of doing the right thing for all involved.”
Donna Baker “I was raised on a dairy farm. My family and I spent many long days working together to accomplish the tasks that were vital to the survival of the family farm. I learned at a very young age the rewards of hard work and the value of dedication and determination. Today, I live on a dairy farm, where my husband and I work to instill those values in our children.” Occupation: Business Owner and College Professor Experience: •
Accounting Department chair, Siena Heights University
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Managing partner, Donna Baker & Associates CPA firm
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Lenawee Christian School Board of Trustees
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Past Lenawee market director, United Bank and Trust
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Past member, IRS Advisory Committee
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Member and third-grade ag awareness instructor, Farm Bureau
Forum Magazine \ Summer 2015 \ 5
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Treasurer, Dover Township
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Member and VBS leader, United Methodist Church
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Member, AICPA and MICPA
About Donna Baker Baker describes herself as a team member with a cooperative spirit and a commitment to community: “Goals can be achieved if you build on the strengths and skills of all those involved,” she says. Regarding her commitment to community, Baker states, “I have a personal goal to always leave a place or organization better than before my involvement and give back to the community whenever possible.” Donna is president-elect of the new Lenawee Community Arbor, which was recently approved by our Board of Directors and is in the process of organizing activities at this time. Donna was previously a member of Maple City Arbor. She is involved with 4-H, the Farm Bureau, Kiwanis, Athena and her local church. Baker is a certified public accountant who holds a master's degree in business administration. She resides in Clayton, Michigan, with her husband, Kim, who owns and operates a 450-cow dairy farm. Baker gives three reasons why she would be an excellent Director for the Society: •
•
•
“I am a forward-thinking strategic planner that will assist in positioning Gleaner to be successful in a constantly changing environment.” “I am an active participant on a board. I will strive to have my involvement add value to Gleaner Life Insurance Society.” “I have strong interpersonal skills that enable me to work well with others.”
Daniel R. Sutton “I was once asked a long time ago what one word I would put on my tombstone. After pondering the question for a while, I chose integrity. I believe the word integrity encompasses many good qualities, and if you have integrity, then you stand for what you believe in. I have always tried to live my life and serve others while maintaining my integrity.”
Sutton has been involved with the Society for most of his life. He has fond childhood memories of Gleaner picnics and gets great joy from helping others. As a fifthgeneration farmer, Sutton knows the importance of carrying on the tradition of fraternalism. He describes himself as a quiet, reserved person: “A teacher once told our class that you can’t learn when you are the one talking. I prefer to listen and gather as much information as possible so that I can make an informed decision.” Sutton tries to continually better himself by reading and attending training seminars. He enjoys challenges, working alongside groups to complete tasks and finding solutions to problems. Sutton resides in Lowell, Indiana, with his wife, Deana.
Occupation: Self-employed in agribusiness
Sutton gives three reasons why he would be an excellent Director for the Society:
Experience:
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“Adaptability. By being openminded, I can learn about the situation at hand, adapt to that situation and try to resolve the situation.”
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“Integrity and courage. An effective board member must stand up for what they believe in and not be afraid to let others know. Sometimes, this is not a popular stance; but I feel if it is the right thing to do, then I will do it.”
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“I believe in being committed to a cause. All of [the organizations I’ve worked with] serve a vital role in our society, and I am committed to helping them fulfill that role now and into the future for future generations.”
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Co-owner of eight businesses, including four real estate holding companies
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Board member, Lake County Farm Bureau
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Representative, West Creek Township Farm Bureau
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Board member, The Arc of Northwest Indiana
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Gleaner’s Good of the Order and Law Committees
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Gleaner’s Fraternal Advisory Council (formerly known as Fraternal Committee)
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President, Hawthorne Arbor
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Fifth-generation farmer
About Daniel R. Sutton As the son of longtime board member Dave Sutton, Daniel
6 \ Protecting families through life insurance since 1894. \ www.gleanerlife.org
Report of the Law Committee The Law Committee of Gleaner Life Insurance Society met on May 17, 2015. The committee was comprised of Dudley Dauterman, Portage Center Arbor (OH); Frank Dick, Adrian Arbor (MI); Vivian Quinones, Gulf Coast Arbor (FL); Margaret Noe, Maple City Arbor (MI); Jim Randall, Holland Arbor (OH); Mike Graves, Mill Creek Arbor (IN); Sheri Thorp, USA Arbor (MI); and Darrell Lindman, Corporate Counsel, Ex-Officio, Capital Arbor (MI). The Law Committee unanimously recommended the approval of the Constitution changes to the Supreme Arbor of Gleaner Life Insurance Society, as presented to the 2015 Law Committee and outlined here.
In order to merge the Society’s Constitution and its By-Laws into a single document and to establish new Rules of Order for Arbors, which include many provisions previously set forth in the By-Laws, the following changes to the Society’s Constitution are recommended. 1. Change the title of the Constitution to Constitution and By-Laws. Correct all references to the words “Constitution” and “By-Laws” within the Constitution and By-Laws to reflect that the Constitution and By-Laws are now contained in a single document. Delete the last sentence of Article 5, Section 1 of the Constitution, which reads: “The Board may make, amend, or revise By-Laws to conform to the Constitution or to reflect then current practices or procedures.”
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•
Section 2. Arbors shall be largely self-governing organizations with elected officers, however they shall comply with the Constitution and By-Laws, and the Rules of Order for Arbors, as adopted by the Society Board of Directors and as amended by the affirmative vote of not less than five (5) members of the Society Board of Directors from time to time. Section 3. Each arbor shall conduct benevolent activities of a charitable, social, civic, educational, environmental, or patriotic nature to make a positive impact on its community.
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2. Move/Rename Article 10 on Amendments to Article 12, making it the last section.
Section 4. Regular meetings of the arbors shall be held at least once in each month at such times and places as determined by the members of each arbor.
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3. Insert a new Article 10 titled Arbors that includes the following:
Section 5. A minimum of five (5) benefit members will constitute a quorum.
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Section 6. The charter of an inactive arbor, an arbor operating outside of the Rules of Order for Arbors, or an arbor that is not operating in the best interests of the Society may be suspended, merged with another arbor, or revoked by the Board. The Board shall provide for the disposition of property of an arbor that has been suspended, merged, or dissolved in a manner consistent with the purposes of the arbors.
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Section 1. Arbors may be chartered by the Board of Directors upon the petition of at least ten (10) benefit members of the Society. The petition shall be in the form prescribed by the Society Board of Directors, and shall indicate acceptance of the founding and governing documents of the Society.
The Law Committee also unanimously recommended to the Gleaner Life Insurance Society Board of Directors the adoption of the Rules of Order for Arbors, as set forth below. On May 18, 2018, the Gleaner Life Insurance Society Board of Directors unanimously approved the Rules of Order for Arbors, as set forth below, contingent on the approval of the changes to the Society's Constitution that are being presented to the Supreme Arbor. The Rules of Order for Arbors will not be presented to the Supreme Arbor, and they will become effective if the changes to the Society's Constitution are approved by the Supreme Arbor.
Rules of Order for Arbors CHAPTER 1 – ARBORS Chapter 1, Sec. 1. Meetings of local arbors shall be held monthly at times and places as determined by its members. Chapter 1, Sec. 2. A quorum shall consist of not less than five (5) benefit members in good standing. Chapter 1, Sec. 3. The arbor President will have the power to call special meetings at any time upon the request of a committee chairperson or five (5) or more benefit members, stating the purpose for the meeting. The Secretary shall notify members personally, by mail, or by electronic means, of the date, hour and place of the meeting. Chapter 1, Sec. 4. Meetings of arbors shall be conducted according to Robert’s Rules of Order. Chapter 1, Sec. 5. Each arbor shall be notified of new certificate applicants and shall vote to accept new members. Chapter 1, Sec. 6. Arbors may meet by telephone conference or other means of communication that allows
Forum Magazine \ Summer 2015 \ 7
all participants to simultaneously communicate with each other. All participants in the meeting shall be advised of the communication equipment being used and the names of all persons participating in the meeting. Participation in a business meeting pursuant to this procedure shall constitute presence in person at the meeting. Members shall be notified of the meeting and minutes kept. Chapter 1, Sec. 7. Materials and supplies that are required by the Society Board of Directors shall be provided by the Society at no cost to the arbor. Chapter 1, Sec. 8. Any member convicted of a felony and sentenced to imprisonment, whose sentence shall have become final, shall thereafter stand suspended as a member of the assigned arbor and from all rights thereto without further action. Chapter 1, Sec. 9. Arbors deemed to be in good standing shall file necessary reports within timelines given, meet monthly, have an elected slate of officers duly installed, support the Society’s mission statement, and work within the Society’s Constitution and By-Laws.
CHAPTER 2 – ARBOR OFFICERS Chapter 2, Sec. 1. The officers of a local arbor shall be:
term. To be eligible for the offices, the candidate must be a benefit member in good standing and not less than 16 years of age. Arbor members may hold only one office, except the same person may hold the offices of Secretary and Treasurer, unless prior approval is granted by the Society’s Fraternal Department (the “Fraternal Department”). Chapter 2, Sec. 3. All elected officers shall be installed in accordance with the ritual of the Society then in effect. The Certificate of Installation shall be read, signed, and forwarded to the Society’s Fraternal Department. Chapter 2, Sec. 4. Absence of any officer from three consecutive meetings or failure to carry out the officer duties, unless excused for reasonable cause, shall be deemed to be a resignation by such officer, and the presiding officer or Fraternal Department may order an election to fill such vacancy. Chapter 2, Sec. 5. Each active arbor in good standing shall at a regular meeting elect the number of delegates to the meeting of the Supreme Arbor (national convention) to which it is entitled according to the Society’s Constitution and By-Laws.
CHAPTER 3 – ARBOR OFFICER DUTIES
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President
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Vice President
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Secretary
Chapter 3, Sec. 1. Arbor officers shall perform duties as may be required of them by due authority and these Rules of Order for Arbors. The following primary duties are prescribed:
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Treasurer
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Chaplain
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Reporter
Chapter 2, Sec. 2. Each local arbor shall at the first regular meeting held in July of even years elect its officers for the ensuing two year
President – shall preside at meetings of the arbor, or appoint a presiding officer; assure that proper reports are provided to the Fraternal Department within deadlines given; maintain order and nurture a cohesive, community spirit.
8 \ Protecting families through life insurance since 1894. \ www.gleanerlife.org
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Vice President - shall, in the absence of the President, undertake the duties of the President.
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Secretary – shall record the minutes of the arbor meetings and activities and file arbor activity reports with the Fraternal Department within 30 days; answer all communications from the Home Office; and share at arbor meetings any communications received.
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Treasurer - shall receive and give receipts for money on behalf of the arbor; keep proper books of account; furnish written monthly financial reports to arbor members and to the Society’s Fraternal Department; and assure annual filings are completed and submitted to the Society within time lines given.
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Chaplain – opens the arbor meetings and events with devotions or prayer.
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Reporter - provides publicity for the good works of the arbor through regular contacts with area media.
Chapter 3, Sec. 2. As a condition of serving as an officer of an arbor, a person must consent to a criminal background check at no cost to the officers or arbors. Chapter 3, Sec. 3. The willful insubordination of proper authority by an arbor officer, or a violation of the Constitution and By-Laws of the Society, as determined by the Society Board of Directors, may merit action to be taken including removal from office.
CHAPTER 4 – ARBOR EXECUTIVE COUNCIL & ARBOR FINANCIALS Chapter 4, Sec. 1. The Executive Council of an arbor shall consist of the President, Vice President,
and Chaplain. It shall be the duty of the committee to examine the books of the Treasurer as of August 31 of each year, and to make and sign a report of their findings to the arbor and to the Fraternal Department. They shall act as a Board of Arbitration in any matter arising from grievances of any benefit members of the arbor, and exercise authority under principles set forth by the Society Board of Directors in all matters pertaining to the good of the Society in their locality. Chapter 4, Sec. 2. The Chairman of the Board or Society President shall have the authority to examine any and all books and records of an arbor at any time. They may appoint an individual they deem proper to conduct the examination. All officers and members of an arbor under examination shall cooperate, giving full access and authority to examine any and all books and records of the arbor. Chapter 4, Sec. 3. All bank accounts, savings, or similar accounts where assets of an arbor are held must be held in the name of Gleaner Life Insurance Society, Arbor # . The Society’s Secretary/ Treasurer or an appointee of the Secretary/Treasurer shall have access to such accounts at reasonable times in appropriate cases.
CHAPTER 5 – ARBOR ACTIVITIES Chapter 5, Sec. 1. Each arbor shall conduct benevolent projects which must be reported to the Fraternal Department by a date set by that department. Upon recommendation by the Society’s President, and approval of the Board of Directors, the Society may provide incentives to authorize fraternal programs, and may make awards to arbors whose projects produce superior results. Chapter 5, Sec. 2. If an arbor plans to hold a raffle drawing at an arbor planned event, the arbor must notify
the Fraternal Department ninety (90) days in advance, and agree to comply with all state laws and Fraternal Department guidelines.
CHAPTER 6 – ARBOR DEACTIVATION, DISSOLUTION OR CONSOLIDATION Chapter 6, Sec. 1. Arbors shall be subject to action by the Society Board of Directors, including deactivation or revocation of the charter of the arbor under the following circumstances: 1. Neglecting to hold monthly meetings, unless prevented from doing so by unavoidable circumstances; 2. Failing to make proper reports as required by the Society; 3. Failing to conform to the Constitution and By-Laws of the Society or the Rules of Order for Arbors; 4. Willful insubordination of proper authority; or 5. Actions, as in the opinion of the Society Board of Directors, are not in the best interests of the Society. Chapter 6, Sec. 2. A deactivated arbor may be reactivated upon petition to the Fraternal Department and approval granted by the Society Board of Directors. The petition must be filed with the Society using the form prescribed and signed by not less than 10 benefit members in good standing. Once the petition is approved, a meeting shall be called of the arbor within 30 days for the election and installation of officers.
to decide where remaining arbor assets will be donated. The arbor may donate their remaining assets to one or more 501(c)3 organization(s) or to another Gleaner arbor. The arbor’s final meeting report must include donation information along with a financial report audited by the arbor’s Executive Council. The arbor’s charter will be declared null and void. Chapter 6, Sec. 4. An arbor desiring to consolidate with another arbor shall forward its request to the Fraternal Department. Both arbors must submit a report of formal consent by vote of their arbor’s benefit members to consolidate. Upon receipt of this request, the Fraternal Department shall make a recommendation to the Society Board of Directors which shall vote on the merger. Upon approval, the consolidation shall at once be effected and the charter of the dissolved arbor shall become null and void. Chapter 6, Sec. 5. The remaining assets of the dissolved arbor shall be delivered to the officers of the consolidated arbor. All property, real, personal, or mixed, shall become the property of the consolidated arbor and shall be used only for the consolidated arbor's operation and expenses, and shall not be divided among the members. The consolidated arbor will thereupon be liable for any debts of the dissolved arbor.
CHAPTER 7 – Amendments Amendments to these Rules of Order for Arbors shall take effect upon approval by a vote of not less than five (5) members of the Society Board of Directors.
Chapter 6, Sec. 3. An arbor that has been deactivated or dissolved, voluntarily or otherwise, shall deliver to the Fraternal Department all of its properties, effects, and supplies. At the final meeting of the arbor, a vote must be taken by benefit members Forum Magazine \ Summer 2015 \ 9
57th Biennial Convention:
Modern amenities meet a timeless Gleaner tradition G L E A N E R
L I F E
BIENNIAL CONVENTION OCTOBER 23-25 S C H A U M B U R G , 2 0 1 5
nearby rural communities. Minutes from world-class shopping and upscale dining, the Renaissance Schaumburg greets guests with contemporary rooms and suites, elegant networking areas and stateof-the-art amenities — all to build a bright future for Gleaner through:
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Meet the Board Candidates
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Hands-On Service Project
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Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament
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Connectivity | Building relationships with other members and arbors.
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Business Meeting: Board of Directors Election and Samaritan Award Presentations
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Innovation | Sharing project ideas for future success.
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Kids Club Morning Activities
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Imagination | Thinking outside the box to better meet the needs of our communities.
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Afternoon Activities for All Ages
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Evening Activities for All Ages
Convention Schedule
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President’s Reception
Friday, Oct. 23
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Evening Banquet, featuring the Dueling Pianos of Michael and Amy
I L
Discover modern sophistication and expressive design at the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel in Schaumburg, Illinois. Every two years, Gleaner members gather to elect board members, conduct the business of the Society and celebrate another successful year of volunteering to impact communities. All members are welcome to join us for this timeless tradition. Schaumburg is a fastgrowing, diverse area that bridges the gap between Chicago and
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President’s Welcome
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Sharing with Schaumburg: Silent Auction and Charity Treasure Totes Collection
10 \ Protecting families through life insurance since 1894. \ www.gleanerlife.org
Saturday, Oct. 24
Sunday, Oct. 25 •
Afterglow Program
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Charity Treasure Tote Presentation
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Silent Auction
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$825 for triple adult occupancy
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Door Prizes
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$990 for quad adult occupancy
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Farewell!
Prices for children are: ages 0-4, no charge; ages 5-12, $70 per child; ages 13-16, $140 per child.
Registration Information All registrations must be made online at www.gleanerlife.org/convention. Up to four adult guests can stay in one room. Registration begins June 15, 2015, and ends Sept. 8, 2015. Guests of registering convention attendees: Guests who are sharing a room with a delegate or first-time attendee can attend the convention for the special discounted convention package price of $165 per person. Everyone’s invited to attend! All members and their guests are encouraged to attend and experience a Gleaner convention firsthand. The package price for guests attending at their own expense includes Friday and Saturday lodging; five meals (Friday dinner at Medieval Times; Saturday breakfast, lunch and banquet; Sunday breakfast); Saturday activity options; entertainment and prize drawings. The cost is: •
$495 for single adult occupancy
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$660 for double adult occupancy
Cancellation policy: Full payment is required at the time of online registration. Reservations canceled on or before Sept. 21, 2015, will receive a full refund. Cancellations received after Sept. 21 are subject to penalty. Extend your stay: The Renaissance Schaumburg is offering a special rate of $119 per room (plus state and local sales taxes), depending on availability. The discounted rate is available for three (3) days before convention and three (3) days after convention at the guest’s expense. (Maximum four people in a room.) Guests are individually responsible to make reservations to extend their stay and should follow online registration prompts. For any questions, please contact the Fraternal Department at fraternal@gleanerlife.org or by calling 800.992.1894. They will be happy to assist you.
Traveling to or live in the Chicago area? Join the fun at Medieval Times and LEGOLAND! For the first time, Gleaner is offering an à la carte option for members and their guests. If you are not attending convention, you can still join us for any of the following: Discounted stay at the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel: $119 per night, plus taxes (depending on availability). Friday evening dinner at Medieval Times: $40 for adults; $35 for kids; free for kids under 3 on your lap. Tour of LEGOLAND® Discovery Center: $12 for adults; $10 for ages 3-12; free for ages 2 and younger. TopGolf: $45 (includes two hours of continuous play, AllAmerican Eagle Buffet and bottomless sodas and iced tea). Registration for these à la carte options opens Sept. 9 and closes Sept. 21. To learn how you can join us, visit www.gleanerlife.org/convention.
Forum Magazine \ Summer 2015 \ 11
MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR SKILLS BY
VOLUNTEERING G leaner members offer a wealth of valuable skills to their communities. Whether volunteering with an arbor or on their own, members live out the fraternal spirit by helping those in need with whatever skills they bring to the table.
shelving to shoring up temporary walls, James’ expertise was a valuable resource to the foundation.
For instance, South Fairfield Arbor (MI/OH) member James Hammersmith was recently recognized as Volunteer of the Week in his local newspaper, The Daily Telegram in Adrian, Michigan. In addition to his work with South Fairfield Arbor, James put his skills as a carpenter to good use this year by helping the Lenawee Community Foundation move into its new building. From installing
Are you unsure of how you can put your talents to use in your community? Here are a few ways you might be able to use your skills to benefit others:
James Hammersmith is the husband of Suann Hammersmith, chair of Gleaner Life Insurance Society’s Board of Directors.
Do you have a green thumb? Help an elderly or disabled neighbor plant their garden. A low-maintenance flower bed can
12 \ Protecting families through life insurance since 1894. \ www.gleanerlife.org
brighten someone’s day while giving you the chance to get to know a neighbor better. For a long-term investment, consider helping them plant vegetables. Then, you can stop by periodically for a visit and some quality time in the garden.
Do you know your way around a kitchen? Help prepare meals for a senior citizens center. Many senior centers offer free lunches to local patrons. If you have the time to volunteer during the day, you can help prepare meals and build relationships with senior citizens in your community. If daytime volunteering isn’t an option, you can prepare baked goods in advance to contribute to the meal.
organization, you can help one of these nonprofits (for instance, a food pantry) free some under-utilized space for other important purposes.
What are your favorite ways to volunteer? In the spring issue of Forum Magazine, we asked you to share your favorite ways of volunteering. Here’s what you had to say:
Do you knit with love? Knit blankets for a maternity home or women’s shelter. If you knit often, it may be for children, grandchildren or other family members. Consider dedicating some knitting time to make newborn hats and blankets for a local maternity home. That way, you can share the gifts of love and warmth with those who need it most.
Do you have excellent organization skills? Help a nonprofit clean out and organize its facilities. Many nonprofits are short-handed, so tasks like cleaning out closets and other storage areas fall to the wayside. If you are a master of
“Our community is a better place because of the 22 planters we fill each May and November throughout the [Dowagiac] Main Street and Depot. The City of Dowagiac pays for the plants, and the Town and Country Garden Club does the rest. Nineteen are irrigated; the rest are watered by club members. We also planted 1,000 crocus bulbs last fall. So attractive!”
Share your favorite fall activities!
Polly Judd | Dowagiac, Michigan
you are enjoying warm, beautiful
“I love volunteering with my Gleaner friends. Hard jobs; heavy, dirty jobs; rainy weather — whatever our project, everyone arrives with a smile and starts to work. Hawthorne Arbor (IN) touches all bases —Head Start, assisted living and nursing homes, public schools, veterans and the mentally and physically challenged. Gleaners are the best.”
summer weather! While you
Marcia Carlson | Lowell, Indiana “JOIN HANDS DAY is always a wonderful day. Youth partners come together with their ideas and thoughts. When driving through the City of Clio, you will see a large amount of youth working hand in hand with arbor members. This day is set aside to clean up the City of Clio. Many friendships have been formed cleaning, painting and repairing. After all the work is accomplished, we break bread (pizza) and refreshments.” Learn more about JOIN HANDS DAY on page 18. Brenda Cameron | Clio, Michigan
Wherever you live, we hope that
may be taking trips to the beach now, in just a few short months, you’ll be planning bonfires, football games and visits to the pumpkin patch. How do you plan to enjoy autumn this year? We want to hear from you! Share your favorite ways to enjoy fall and your favorite autumn activities by emailing marketing@gleanerlife.org or completing the postcard found between pages 20 and 21.
Forum Magazine \ Summer 2015 \ 13
50-year members Florida Luann Kerr, Spring Hill Jon F. Werner, Fruitland Park Illinois James A. Derr, Mackinaw Linda Kloster, Crest Hill Keith A. Wills, Mazon Indiana Kyle S. Bruce, Lowell Carl W. Eich, Lowell Nancy L. Hladek, Hammond Michigan Stanley B. Behrens, Ovid Gerald E. Dell, Yale Laurence E. Dell, Yale Carol L. Earle, Muskegon Dorothy A. Gingrich, Freeland Julie M. Hamel, Portage Garald V. Heppe, Orleans Karen Kissinger, Hartford Denise L. McCrumb, Owosso Gerald J. Post, St. Joseph Pauline Reehl, Gagetown Missouri Michael J. Kohls, Saint Peters Montana James L. Miano, Billings
North Carolina John R. Compton, Sr., Newport
Kansas Merle W. Alexander, Prairie Village
Ohio Denise R. Crothers, Cardington Cheryl L. Destatte, Maumee Loren R. Hart, Ashley Robert M. Rossley, Painesville
Michigan Mary Bower, Mt. Pleasant Aletha L. Chaffee, Weidman Janice C. Harrison, Alma Albert B. Hoag, Adrian Nancy A. Krohn, Lambertville Elsie L. Peterson, Battle Creek William C. Sands, Jr., Kalamazoo Wayne R. Snyder, Flushing
Texas Karen D. Champion, Houston
75-year members California William G. Reinke, Boulder Creek Florida J. Raymond Entenman, Tampa Marjorie Short, Lakeland Illinois Donald E. Alexander, Elliott Gail F. Kaufman, Watseka Geraldine B. Spokas, Westmont Indiana Norrita L. Borgman, Goshen Yvonne Dopieralski, New Carlisle Phillip L. Harden, Jr., Roanoke James K. Morris, Franklin Laura R. Telford, Muncie James H. Williams, Franklin
Missouri Mark E. Zimmer, Springfield New York Ruth A. Benkovitz, Douglaston Ohio Ruth O. Beard, Sunbury J. George Ruth, Marion Virginia Martha A. Stineback, Hillsville Sandra K. Schultz, Virginia Beach Mary E. Ruth, Williamsburg
Frank Dick publishes memoir Earlier this year, past Gleaner President and current Chairman Emeritus Frank Dick published Do All The Good You Can …. This memoir is a reflection on generosity and Dick’s rags-to-riches life with his late wife, Shirley. The title is a quote from 18th-century theologian John Wesley. The manuscript was composed by Deb Wuethrich, a retired writer from The Tecumseh Herald, and printed at Spectrum Printing in Tecumseh, Michigan. The memoir covers Dick’s military service, his career as an educator and as the Society’s president and his ongoing commitment to benevolence and the fraternal spirit. Only 500 copies of Do All The Good You Can … were printed. No copies are currently available, but Dick is considering a second printing at a later time.
14 \ Protecting families through life insurance since 1894. \ www.gleanerlife.org
Welcome, new arbors! An arbor is a Gleaner service club that gives back to its community through projects and donations funded by Gleaner. The Society funds arbors through operating gains from the sale of our life insurance and annuity products. Arbors receive funding from Gleaner based on their level of participation in fraternal programs, so arbor members are able to spend their time giving back rather than fundraising. If you are a Gleaner member who is interested is participating with or even starting an arbor, contact the Fraternal Department at fraternal@gleanerlife.org.
From left to right, officers Emily Blackburn, Elaine Reinke, Carolyn Miller, Brittany Miller and Vicky Joyce (standing in for Kimberly Betts) were sworn in at North Central Arbor’s first meeting.
From left to right, Paul Fish, David Sperling, Emily Hayward, Jerel Fish and Ian Malhoit attend Fallen Timbers Arbor’s dinner in June.
North Central Arbor (MI)
Fallen Timbers Arbor (OH)
North Central Arbor #791 was chartered by the Board of Directors on March 17, 2015. The arbor, which serves the areas of Beaverton, Clare and Farwell in Michigan, held its start-up meeting on March 18, 2015. The officers are:
Fallen Timbers Arbor #792 held its start-up meeting on April 21, 2015, and was chartered by the Board of Directors on April 30. Fallen Timbers Arbor serves the Waterville, Maumee, Whitehouse and Monclova areas of Ohio. The officers are:
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President: Emily Blackburn
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Vice President: Brittany Miller
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Secretary/Treasurer: Carolyn Miller
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Reporter: Kimberly Betts
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Chaplain: Elaine Reinke
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Fraternal Communicator: Phil Raske | praske@live.com
Members of North Central Arbor did not waste any time meeting and preparing their activity calendar for the 2014-15 Samaritan year. The group is excited to start volunteering in its communities! Welcome, North Central Arbor! If you live in these areas and would like to get involved with this group to make a difference in your community, contact Carolyn Miller at 989.621.8592 or cmiller@ga-ins.com.
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President: Jerel Fish
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Vice President: Paul Fish
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Secretary/Treasurer: Emily Hayward
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Reporter: Ian Malhoit
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Chaplain: David Sperling
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Fraternal Communicator: Ruth Benien | ruthbenien@gmail.com
Members of Fallen Timbers Arbor hit the ground running by hosting a booth at the Whitehouse Cherry Festival on June 13 with hat-making crafts for kids. In the coming months, they are planning to host a private showing of a family movie and a bicycle safety/family bike ride. Welcome, Fallen Timbers Arbor! If you live in these areas and would like to get involved to make a difference in your community, contact Emily Hayward by phone at 419.944.1656 or email her at secretary792@gmail.com.
Forum Magazine \ Summer 2015 \ 15
Thank-you letters Dear Mill Creek Arbor (IN),
Dear Alma Arbor (MI),
On behalf of the LaPorte County Agricultural Association's Board of Directors, I would like to take this opportunity to express our sincerest appreciation for your monetary contribution towards the purchase of bleachers for our show arena.
We really appreciate your participation in Experience Earth Day, April 25, 2015! Your donation of $141.90 for 10 white pines, 10 white spruces, 10 red-osier dogwoods, 10 silky dogwoods and 10 elderberry shrubs enabled us to get volunteers to plant these to improve wildlife habitat at Chippewa Nature Center. Your additional donation of $239.96 for four rolls of welded wire to make cages for these young trees and shrubs helped us to protect them from hungry deer for the next few years.
It is through the support of organizations like yours that we are able to continue our 170-year tradition of hosting the LaPorte County Fair. Thank you so much for your consideration and support in our cause. Respectfully, Eugene Shurte General Manager
Dear Legacy Arbor (MI), On behalf of Habitat for Humanity of Lenawee County (HFHLC), thank you for supporting us with your generous gift of $750. Your investment supports Habitat’s mission to bring people together to build homes, communities and hope!
It was nice to have eight members of the Alma Arbor help in planting, along with other visitors. We counted 100 people who came to the event from 10:00 to 3:00, which was 40 more people than last year. We strive to involve people in doing things to benefit our environment and teach them how to live sustainably. We value your cooperation and hope you will continue your involvement at Chippewa Nature Center. Sincerely, Jeanne Henderson Interpretive Naturalist
HFHLC is proud to be leading the charge in neighborhood revitalization and serving families by responding to community aspirations, providing services and building partnerships that empower residents to revive their neighborhoods and enhance their quality of life. Habitat serves low-income families by offering mortgages with payments that do not exceed 30% of the applicant’s annual income as a part of our homeownership program and 0% interest loans for homeowners in need of critical home repairs. As mortgages and repair loans are repaid, those payments are reinvested into more rehabs and repairs for years to come, allowing more families to be served because of your support. Your donation helps to strengthen the entire community. Thank you for your support! Sincerely, Robin Hinman Resource Development Director
16 \ Protecting families through life insurance since 1894. \ www.gleanerlife.org
You can purchase children’s books today at a discounted price! Gleaner is offering you the opportunity to purchase The Giving Book and The Nickels, Dimes and Dollars Book at a special discounted price. As a Gleaner member, you can purchase them for just $10 per book. All proceeds will be donated to the Gleaner Life Insurance Society Scholarship Foundation.
The Giving Book: Open the Door to a Lifetime of Giving The Giving Book is filled with activities that help children think about their hopes and dreams for the world. This book will let kids decide how they want to use their time, kindness, talents and money in order to make a difference. The book is appropriate for children ages 6-11 and provides hands-on activities, a journal and scrapbook that will help inspire them as they record their journey of giving and charity.
The Nickels, Dimes and Dollars Book: A Wise Kid’s Guide to Money Matters The Nickels, Dimes and Dollars Book will help kids make smart decisions about how to spend, share, save, earn and grow their money. The more they learn to manage money, the more it can help them to create a comfortable and meaningful future. This activity book is a conversation starter and an educational tool that inspires children to develop valuable skills and healthy habits that can support their well-being and financial futures. Appropriate for ages 6 and up.
To purchase books … To purchase books, complete the order form below and mail it along with your check to the address shown. For more information, contact the Marketing Department at 800.992.1894 or email marketing@gleanerlife.org. The Giving Book and The Nickels, Dimes, and Dollars Book were written by Ellen Sabin and published by Watering Can® Press. Watering Can® is committed to creating and distributing books and other products that nurture and inspire children as they grow into their roles as healthy, kind, confident and giving world citizens. For more information, visit wateringcanpress.com
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Please make check payable to: GLIS Scholarship Foundation
Mail to: Gleaner Life Insurance Society, Attn: The Giving Book, P.O. Box 1894, Adrian, MI 49221
BILLING ADDRESS
SHIPPING ADDRESS
Your Name: _______________________________
Name: ____________________________________
Address: __________________________________
Address: __________________________________
City/State: ________________________________
City/State: ________________________________
Zip: ______________________________________
Zip: ______________________________________
Phone: ____________________________________
Phone: ____________________________________
Email: ____________________________________
Email: ____________________________________
Same as Billing Address
# of The Giving Book: _______ # of The Nickels, Dimes and Dollars Book: _______ x $10.00 (each) = $ _______ Please allow 2-4 weeks for shipping.
FORUM gleanerlife.org 17 (Total Amount Enclosed)
Arbors in action JOIN HANDS DAY
On May 2, Gleaner arbors across all states partnered with local youth organizations to improve their communities. JOIN HANDS DAY is a nationwide annual event for fraternal benefit societies whose members help break generational boundaries by working together and completing truly extraordinary projects chosen by the youth groups. Here’s how several arbors and their youth partners made a difference on JOIN HANDS DAY:
Center Township Arbor (IN) and the St. Joseph County 4-H Junior Leaders weeded, spread mulch and planted plants at the St. Joseph County Fairgrounds.
Adrian Arbor (MI) and the Grace Point Mission & Leadership Youth Team spread mulch at Island Park in Adrian, Michigan. The arbor also provided a bounce house, ice cream and giveaways to families who visited the park.
F lorida Arbor (OH) and the South Florida 4-H Club planned a Memorial Day service where they put flower sprays on the graves of each veteran in a Florida cemetery.
Bay Area Arbor (FL) and East Bay High School’s agriscience students cleaned and painted rooms at the Mary and Martha House, a shelter for abused women and their children. 18 \ Protecting families through life insurance since 1894. \ www.gleanerlife.org
Caro Arbor (MI) and students from Bad Axe Elementary assisted the Garden Club in cleaning out three gardens. The project included raking, hauling leaves, weeding and litter removal.
Holland Arbor (OH) and girls from St. Ursula School weeded and prepared the vegetable garden at University Church.
Vulcaneer Arbor (MI) and the Vassar Baptist Youth Group fixed up a worndown playground. The project included sanding, staining, purchasing new accessories for the playground and spreading mulch.
Heart of Florida Arbor (FL) and Boy Scout Troop 765 partnered to create a meditation garden at Unity Church.
Maple City Arbor (MI) and the Lenawee Youth Council painted and decorated rusty garbage cans for the Lenawee County Fairgrounds.
Glen Arbor (MI) and nine youth organizations cleaned up and beautified Clio Veterans Memorial Park, the Clio Area Historical Depot, the railroad tracks, the City of Clio’s downtown flower beds and the Clio Amphitheater’s flower beds.
South Fairfield Arbor (MI/ OH) and the Goats and “Udder” Things 4-H Club held a bake sale and car wash to benefit the Fulton County Fairgrounds’ sheep barn renovation.
To learn more about Gleaner arbors, or to find out how you can get involved, contact Gleaner’s Fraternal Department by emailing fraternal@gleanerlife.org or calling 800.992.1894. Forum Magazine \ Summer 2015 \ 19
Recipe File From the time-honored tradition of food preservation to simple salads, these recipes make use of summer’s bounty from your garden or local farmers market.
Refrigerator Cucumber Pickles • • • • • • •
2 cups sugar (may use less) 2 tablespoons salt 2 tablespoons celery seeds 1 cup vinegar 7 cups sliced cucumbers 1 cup onions, thinly sliced 1 green pepper, cut into small pieces
Mix sugar, salt, celery seeds and vinegar. Pour over cucumbers, onions and green pepper. Store in a jar in refrigerator. Note: Barbara says pickles will last up to 3 months in refrigerator or may be frozen. Barbara Abbott, Hazel Fiegel, Alice Houghton Home Grown Recipes, Vol. 3, page 40
Strawberry-Zucchini Jam • • • • • •
6 cups zucchini, peeled and chopped 6 cups sugar 1 (20-ounce) can crushed pineapple ½ cup lemon juice 1 package Sure-Jell fruit pectin 1 (6-ounce) package strawberry gelatin
Spinach Salad with Berries and Curry Dressing Dressing: • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar • 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar • 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon honey • 1 teaspoon curry power • 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard • Salt and pepper to taste Salad: • 6 ounces fresh spinach (about 6 cups), torn into bite-size pieces • 1 cup strawberries, thickly sliced • 1 cup blueberries • 1 small red onion, thinly sliced • ½ cup pecans, chopped Wash and dry spinach. Whip together dressing ingredients. Add to spinach and toss lightly. Add berries, onion and pecans. Toss lightly and serve. Serves 6. Shirley Dick Home Grown Recipes, Vol. 3, page 75
In a saucepan, bring the zucchini, sugar, pineapple and lemon juice to a boil and cook until liquid becomes clear (about 25 minutes). Add Sure-Jell and cook 5 minutes more. Remove from heat and add gelatin. Pour into small jars and refrigerate until serving time. Makes 4 to 6 jars. Note: Liquid may take more than 25 minutes to turn clear. If it’s a good rolling boil, add the Sure-Jell after 30 minutes. Variation: Try peach, apricot, tropical fruit and cherry gelatin. All varieties are delicious.
Do you have a favorite recipe you’d like to share? We’d love to feature your recipe!
Linda Hinesman, Hudson, Michigan Home Grown Recipes, Vol. 3, page 407
Gleaner Life Insurance Society, Attn: Marketing Department, 5200 West U.S. Hwy. 223, P.O. Box 1894, Adrian, MI 49221
Send a copy to marketing@gleanerlife.org or mail to:
20 \ Protecting families through life insurance since 1894. \ www.gleanerlife.org
Regardless of where any of us are in life’s journey, time has a way of getting away from us. We tend to fall into a routine in our everyday lives with our work, our families, sporting events, meal preparation, holiday and birthday celebrations, etc. All of these daily ventures are an important part of functioning in our society. But, gee whiz, a turn or two in the road of life can be so rewarding! Recently, during a discussion with our daughter, she expressed an interest in wanting to learn how to play the guitar. My response was pretty simple: “Go for it!” I told her to Google guitar sales, guitar lessons, whatever, and start researching options in her area. Consider Steve Martin, the comedian and actor, as an example. He is known for being both of those things as well as a writer, but he always had a love for the banjo. In 2009, Martin took home a Grammy for bluegrass album of the year — quite an accomplishment! I have written before about the joy I experience in my hobby of quilting. Believe me, my own interest did not begin with any particular talent for sewing clothes but rather the notion of wanting to learn how to make a quilt. Over the past 10 years of tackling my new craft, I have attended classes, learned many techniques and made a lot new friends. Stepping into the unknown has greatly enriched my life.
Four-Layer Breakfast Casserole • • • • •
1 can crescent rolls 1 pound pork sausage, browned 4 eggs ¼ cup half-and-half 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Preheat oven to 350 F. Spray bottom of a casserole pan (8- by 10-inch or thereabouts) with no-stick spray. Roll out crescent dough, pressing seams closed. Mix eggs with half-and-half. Layer browned sausage, half of the cheese, egg and half-and-half mixture and top with remainder of cheese. Bake 20-25 minutes or until golden. Enjoy!
Fraternally,
Korinne Marti Wife of Gleaner President and CEO Kevin Marti
Good luck to you all as you consider broadening your own horizons and tackling something NEW in your life. Just remember, you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take in basketball — and in life’s journey! I have always been one to try my luck on new recipes for better or worse. Below is a popular Marti family breakfast favorite. Give it a try, and start your day with this yummy entrée and a cup of coffee.
Forum Magazine \ Summer 2015 \ 21
Hey, kids! Summer is finally here! From watching a baseball game to swinging at the park, there are so many fun things to do this time of year. What do you like to do when
the weather is hot? I love to splish and splash in the
pool or take a run through the sprinkler. There are lots of
other fun ways to cool off on a warm summer day, like having
a water fight with sponge balls you can make yourself. Have a happy and safe summer!
Sponge water bombs
Benny’s latest journey: History and fun in the sun
Here is a neat way to enjoy the fun of a water balloon fight without the mess. With colorful sponges and string, you can make a bucket full of sponge balls in no time.
After touring historic Gettysburg in the last issue of Forum Magazine, Benny’s travels took him to our nation’s capital. Benny visited Washington, D.C., with Gleaner’s Senior Vice President of Insurance Operations, Wally Taylor, where he enjoyed the city’s famous cherry blossoms.
Materials •
Several packages of sponges (½-by-2¾-by-4¼ inches) in a variety of colors
•
Twine
•
Scissors
For each ball, you will need three sponges. Cut each sponge lengthwise into four pieces. Cut a length of twine or string. Place four pieces of sponge across the twine. Top with two more layers of four pieces each. Feel free to mix the colors for each layer to create a rainbow. Tie the layers across the center with the string and knot tightly. Fluff the pieces into a ball. Wet and throw! Be sure to air dry after each use.
Preferring to ride out the rest of spring in a warmer climate, Benny jetted off to Grand Cayman for sand and surf with Gleaner President Kevin Marti. Do you have a mini Benny? Take him on your next trip and send photos to marketing@gleanerlife.org. How do I get a mini Benny? Mini Bennys are sent out with our Just For Kids® life insurance certificates. Learn more about Just For Kids® at www.gleanerlife.org/justforkids. Benny in Washington, D.C.
To see samples of sponge balls, visit It’s Overflowing at http://bit.ly/1H0NXt4.
Benny in Grand Cayman
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Summertime free fun Don’t be bored over summer break! We have a list of free fun activities that will keep you busy. Do you like to read? Sign up for Barnes and Noble’s summer reading program, and you can choose a free book if you read eight books. Sylvan Learning also offers a neat reading program where you can earn points to redeem for prizes. Be sure to also check with your local library. Many offer weekly activities and special programs. There’s no better way to beat the heat than going to watch a movie. Many cinemas offer free or discounted children’s movies throughout the summer. Contact your local cinema, or visit the link below to find out about what theaters around the country are offering. If you like bowling, be sure to check out the Kids Bowl Free program. All summer long, you can bowl for free up to two games a day! There is also a program that provides free vouchers for roller skating. For details on these and other summer freebies, visit About.com at http://abt.cm/1AOl5TC.
Summer is here! After you have found all the words, the remaining letters will spell out a hidden message.
H D S P S K I B G D C J A U Y
A H P O T N C E N I E C H Z D
V A R O A C E A I R S N I D B
E D I L G X C C P E F J F P R
A P N H T K R H M V D Q I W Q
S P K A K A E B A N Y U N U X
A Y L R S D A N C J F G O S M
F S E I T R M U U O T F A D I
E U R O B H S L G J S K P W H
A M H E W B Y U M U U T X N K
V A C A T I O N N K S S J V R
N U E W J Y Z V Z U Y T D I E
E M R Z Q A G E C U V X X B V
L E M O N A D E G Q S O I U Y
G N I M M I W S S Z P E Y W Z
AUGUST
LEMONADE
BARBECUE
POOL
BEACH
SAND
CAMPING
SPRINKLER
HOT
SUN
ICECREAM
SWIMMING
JULY
VACATION
JUNE
Did you find the wheat stalk? In this issue of Forum Magazine, the wheat stalk was hidden on page 13 by the fall leaves.
(Over,Down,Direction) AUGUST(7,7,SE) BARBECUE(6,8,NE) BEACH(1,8,E) CAMPING(7,9,W) HOT(10,3,SW) ICECREAM(1,7,E) JULY(7,10,NE) JUNE(9,10,NW) LEMONADE(14,1,S) POOL(1,4,E) SAND(7,5,NW) SPRINKLER(1,3,E) SUN(9,7,SE) SWIMMING(15,8,N) VACATION(11,1,S)
Forum Magazine \ Summer 2015 \ 23
Privacy Notice Your financial security, satisfaction and privacy are very important to us. We value the continued confidence you have placed in us, and we are serious about our commitment to keep your personal information private. This document describes how we handle your personal information and the steps that we take to protect your privacy.
Definitions • Public Information refers to what is lawfully available to the general public from federal, state or local government records; widely distributed media; or disclosures to the general public that are required to be made by federal, state or local law. • Nonpublic Information is personally identifiable financial and medical information. It also means any list, description or other grouping of individuals and publicly available information pertaining to them that is derived from any personally identifiable information that is not publicly available. • Consumer Reporting Agency is an entity, that regularly provides reports (Consumer Reports), including information regarding an individual's general reputation, character, personal characteristics or mode of living and financial status. The information may be obtained through interviews with the individual or third parties, such as the individual's business associates, family members, friends, neighbors, acquaintances or financial sources. • You means any individual who obtains or has obtained a financial product or service from the Society. • Gleaner Life Insurance Society is referred to as the “Society,” “us,” "we" or “our.”
Collecting Information to Conduct Business We obtain information about you to help us serve your financial needs, provide customer service, offer new products or services, and fulfill legal and regulatory requirements. The type of information that the Society collects varies according to the products you request and includes:
• Information that you provide to us in an application or other forms (name, address, Social Security number, assets and income, etc.). • Information about your relationship with us (products or services purchased, account balances, payment history, etc.). • Information about your transactions with us (balances, premium payments, loans, claims, etc.) or others. • Information that we may receive from a Consumer Reporting Agency. • Information from non-Gleaner sources (such as medical information, etc.).
Sharing Information With Others We do not disclose any personal Nonpublic Information about you to anyone, except: • On occasion, your name, age, place of residence, length of membership as well as your involvement in any fraternal activity with the Society may be disclosed in one of our publications (The National Gleaner Forum magazine, The Arbor Newsletter, etc.), at one of our fraternal events (picnics, etc.) or for public relations purposes (news releases, photographs, etc.). All information disclosed about you as mentioned here will be of favorable intent and will not compromise the confidentially of your other Nonpublic Information; • Many employers or other plan sponsors restrict the information that can be shared about their employees or members by companies that provide them with products or services such as a 401(k) plan, 457 plan, etc. In our business relationships with such institutions, we always honor these restrictions. If you have a relationship
24 \ Protecting families through life insurance since 1894. \ www.gleanerlife.org
with the Society because of the products or services provided through an employer or other plan sponsor, we will abide by the specific privacy rules imposed by that organization; • We will not share medical information for marketing purposes; • As permitted by law. For example, we may disclose information in response to a subpoena, to prevent fraud or to comply with an inquiry by governmental agency or regulator; or, • As you may authorize.
Access to Your Information Is Authorized for Gleaner Purposes Only We restrict access to your personal, insurance and medical information to the Society’s employees who need to know that information in order to provide insurance or service to you. We are, and will continue to be, vigilant in safeguarding your personal financial and medical information.
Security Standards We maintain physical, electronic and procedural safeguards to comply with federal and state regulations regarding the safeguarding of Nonpublic Information. It is our sincere desire to maintain complete, accurate and up-to-date records. You may contact us at the address or telephone number on page 2 to access, as provided by law, information included in your file. We will promptly correct any error in our information. To protect your privacy, you will need to identify yourself by providing us with your name, date of birth and Social Security number.
Register for Gleaner’s
2015 Family Safari to Kalahari!
Friday, Nov. 13-Sunday, Nov. 15 Kalahari Resort and Waterpark | Sandusky, Ohio
Visit www.gleanerlife.org/kalahari to register!
Other Upcoming Events Summer Picnics
Gleaner Day 2015
Ohio State Family Picnic
Saturday, Oct. 3, 2015 Greenfield Village at The Henry Ford Dearborn, Michigan
Saturday, July 25, 2015 | 1 p.m. EDT The Lighthouse 10055 U.S. Route 224, Findlay, Ohio
Northern Michigan Regional Family Picnic Saturday, Aug. 1, 2015 | 1 p.m. EDT Weidman Community Center – Mitchell Park 3432 N. Woodruff Road, Weidman, Michigan
Southern Michigan Regional Family Picnic Saturday, Aug. 15, 2015 | 1 p.m. EDT Lenawee County Fairgrounds 602 N. Dean St., Adrian, Michigan
57th Biennial Convention Friday, Oct. 23-Sunday, Oct. 25 Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel Schaumburg, Illinois
Nonprofit Organization U.S. POSTAGE PAID BOLINGBROOK, IL PERMIT NO. 594 5200 West U.S. Highway 223, P.O. Box 1894 Adrian, Michigan 49221-7894