Gleaner Life Duration Term
Security when you need it most Life insurance should reflect life — an opportunity with countless options to pursue and protect your dreams. But even with term life insurance, the need for coverage can vary drastically. Securing your children’s education may be important for the next 15 years, but paying down a mortgage might be a priority for the next 20 years. Your need for term coverage can decrease as you become more financially secure over the years; however, you need a plan that can address where you are now as well as where you plan to be tomorrow. Gleaner Life Duration Term provides coverage when it's needed most with up to four concurrent term certificates of varying lengths, which allow premiums to decrease over time. This “ladder approach” provides higher life insurance coverage now and less when the need for coverage decreases. In addition, by electing the Waiver of Premium rider, Gleaner will waive the obligation to pay premiums if the primary insured becomes disabled.* To learn more about term life insurance for your changing needs, contact your Gleaner agent, listed on the back of this publication. If you don’t have a Gleaner agent, visit www.gleanerlife.org to find one near you.
www.gleanerlife.org Licensed in AZ, FL, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MI, MO, NE, OH, TN and VA. Gleaner Life Duration Term form number ICC13-TCERT with state-specific variations. *Added cost applies for these riders.
Contents Summer 2016
8
12
16
features
at a glance
8 Do something different
On the cover
18
4 Which IRA
31 PerkSpot offers hundreds of
14 Gleaner celebrates
Giving back
this summer
Now is the time to re-evaluate your goals and try something new and inspiring.
12 A closer look at Gleaner membership
leaner members enjoy more than G financial solutions. Explore all of the benefits of belonging to Gleaner.
16 Take one last family trip before fall
As summer draws to a close, consider making lasting memories with one last trip of the season.
member discounts
is right for you? its two newest retirees
20 Barbecue tips for
Fallen Timbers Arbor hosts movie event
News & reviews
23 Arbor Spotlight: USA Arbor decorates duffel bags for foster care youth
From the president
5 New and improved website offers many enhancements
6
Flag Day recap
Frank Dick goes on Honor Flight
10
The Gleaner mailbag
24
Arbors in action
Interests 7 Photo collection of recent Gleaner events
19
Order children’s books
26
Upcoming Gleaner events
Riley Creek Arbor!
28
Recipe File
15 Gleaner announces
29
Korinne’s Korner
30
Benny’s page
13 Welcome,
Home Office promotions
15 Baker appointed to Board of Directors
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 26 for the answer.
www.gleanerlife.org
22 Arbor Spotlight:
summer gatherings
3
50- and 75-year members
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.
Forum Magazine \ Summer 2016 \
1
FORUM Summer 2016 / V. 121 / No. 3 Officers and Senior Management
Foundation SP9
More square footage for your financial plan Is your financial plan ready for an addition? Gleaner’s new Foundation SP9, a single-premium deferred annuity, can be a great financial solution for lump sums like stock market gains, 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. Even more, Foundation SP9 allows you to withdraw up to 10% of the account value annually without incurring a surrender charge, keeping your funds readily available should you need them. Foundation SP9 features •
Flexible withdrawals of up to 10% of the account value per certificate year without incurring a surrender charge.
•
Competitive current interest rate with a minimum guarantee of 2.0% in certificate years 1-9 (1% in subsequent years).
•
Minimum initial premium of $10,000 and no subsequent premiums.
•
Surrender charge of 9% in year one, decreasing by 1% each year until 0%.
Start laying a solid foundation for your financial future. To learn more about Foundation SP9, contact your Gleaner agent, listed on the back of this publication. If you don't have a Gleaner agent, contact the Distribution Department at 800.992.1894 to find one near you.
Kevin A. Marti, FSA, CLU, ChFC President and CEO Jeffrey S. Patterson, FLMI Senior Vice President, Finance and Insurance Operations Daniel L. Gordon, FICF, CRPC® Senior Vice President, Distribution and Community Engagement D. Arell Chapman, CRISC Vice President, Information Technology Grier C. Edwards, MBA, FIC Assistant Vice President, Distribution and Marketing Deborah K. Elliott, SHRM-SCP, SPHR Assistant Vice President, Human Resources and Administration Michelle L. Horn Assistant Vice President, Community Engagement Michael J. Tunney, CFE, FLMI, AALU Assistant Vice President, Insurance Operations and Chief Underwriter Kaylene S. Warner, FLMI Assistant Vice President, Finance and Controller Board of Directors Suann D. Hammersmith, Chair Terry L. Garner, Vice Chair Donna K. Baker | Margaret M.S. Noe Daniel R. Sutton | Todd M. Warner Mark A. Wills | Frank Dick, Chairman Emeritus Supreme Arbor Officers Connie Bland, Supreme Chief Gleaner Jeff Price, Supreme Vice Chief Gleaner Dick Hadden, Supreme Chaplain Norma Garner, Supreme Conductor Linda Ruehrmund, Supreme Guard National Headquarters 5200 West U.S. Highway 223 P.O. Box 1894 Adrian, Michigan 49221-7894 p 517.263.2244 or 800.992.1894 f 517.265.7745 www.gleanerlife.org forum@gleanerlife.org Hours Monday - Friday: 8 a.m. - 4:45 p.m. EST The Forum Magazine is produced quarterly at Gleaner’s Home Off ice by Alanna Cook,
www.gleanerlife.org Gleaner Life Insurance Society is domiciled in Adrian, Michigan, and licensed in AZ, FL, IA, IL, IN, K S, KY, MI, MO, NE, OH, TN and VA. Form # ICC15-SPDA9 with state-specific variations.
Grier Edwards, Daniel Gordon, Chuck Monahan, Salina Richards, Sarah Symington and Julie Tison. For questions regarding this publication, please email forum@gleanerlife.org.
Thoughts from the President Dear members:
As we make our way into the summer months and picnic season — including Gleaner’s family picnics — we celebrate Memorial Day, Flag Day, Father’s Day, Independence Day and, finally, Labor Day. I also have my birthday and wedding anniversary during the summer — busy times! This is my favorite time of the year, as we get to spend time outdoors, get together with family and friends, take vacations and celebrate our many blessings, both individually and collectively as a nation. Your Society is off to a strong start in the first half of 2016, with increased premium writings, very good net income results and continued member surplus gains. Our annuity premiums in recent months have been the highest we’ve recorded since the fall of 2012. Thank you for your continued support of the Society as we approach our 122nd anniversary this fall! Low interest rates continue to test financial institutions across the U.S. and around the globe. It was widely anticipated that the Federal Reserve would raise interest rates multiple times in 2016, up from the near-zero levels of recent years. But the U.S. economy appeared to slow down early in 2016, and the Fed now appears to be backing off its planned rate hikes, or at least reducing their number. The sooner we get to more normal interest rates, the better for our country, the Society and our members with savings in annuities and universal life cash values. As we enter the picnic season, many of you may notice that Vice President of Fraternal Operations Sherry Nino has been conspicuously absent this year. Sherry retired June 1 after 35 years of loyal service to the Society and our members. We also recently bid a fond farewell to Vice President of Human Resources and Administration Jan Goulart. You can read more about Gleaner’s two newest retirees on Page 14 as we wish Sherry and Jan each a happy, healthy, long retirement full of great memories. While we’ve said goodbye to two great vice presidents, we’re also celebrating Dan Gordon's promotion to senior vice president of distribution and community engagement. Congratulations to Dan on this well-deserved recognition. We've also promoted several Home Office employees to www.gleanerlife.org
the rank of assistant vice president and hired a new AVP of human resources and administration. You can read more about Dan and all of our new AVPs on Page 15. Our newest Board director, Donna Baker, is also featured in an article on Page 15. Welcome, Donna — we look forward to your service on the Society’s board and with the Lenawee Community Arbor you helped start! You'll also notice a new phrase throughout this issue of Forum Magazine: community engagement. To help better represent who we are to the public and our growing membership, we're updating our vocabulary. You can read more about membership and community engagement on Pages 12-13. There is a wealth of other information in this summer edition of Forum Magazine, including Flag Day and other recent events. While guests at our Home Office were celebrating this annual event, I had the pleasure of accompanying Chairman Emeritus Frank Dick on the Honor Flight to the World War II Memorial and other memorials in Washington, D.C. You can see some of the highlights on Page 6. Please enjoy, and have a safe and sound summer! Fraternally,
Kevin A. Marti President and CEO
Forum Magazine \ Summer 2016 \
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WHICH
IRA is best FOR YOU?
An IRA, or individual retirement account, is an account used to set aside and grow money for retirement. As opposed to a 401(k), which is employer-sponsored, IRAs are a way for individuals to save for retirement on their own, either in place of or in addition to a 401(k). The two main types of IRAs are traditional and Roth. Each has its own unique features and benefits. Your Gleaner agent can help you decide which type of IRA best fits your financial plan and may make a recommendation based on considerations like: •
How close you are to retirement.
•
How much you earn annually.
•
How much you plan to save.
Here is a brief overview describing the differences between Roth and traditional IRAs.
Roth IRA
Traditional IRA
There are no age limits on contributions.
Contributions are not allowed after and for the year the taxpayer reaches age 70½.
Contributions are never tax-deductible.
Contributions may be deductible, depending on tax-filing and active-participant statuses, as well as adjusted gross income (AGI).
Income caps may prevent individuals from contributing.
Income caps do not prevent individuals from contributing.
Contributions grow tax-deferred and are always distributed tax-free. Earnings grow tax-deferred, and qualified distributions (see below) of earnings are tax-free.
Contributions and earnings grow tax-deferred but are treated as taxable income when distributed.
Minimum distributions are not required.
Required minimum distributions (RMDs) begin at age 70½.
Qualified distributions With Roth IRAs, a distribution is qualified if it fulfills the following criteria: •
It occurs at least five years after the individual establishes his or her first Roth IRA.
•
The individual has either reached age 59½, is disabled, is using the withdrawal to purchase a first home or is deceased (in which case, distributions go to designated beneficiaries).
For both Roth and traditional IRAs, there is a maximum contribution limit of $5,500 or 100% of employment compensation, whichever is less. Individuals age 50 and above can contribute an additional $1,000 each year. Information in this document is based on current tax law. For tax advice, Gleaner Life recommends that a tax professional be sought. 4
\ Summer 2016 \ Forum Magazine
www.gleanerlife.org
Check out the new gleanerlife.org this summer! The wait is almost over: Gleaner’s new and improved website will soon be available! This redesign includes a completely new Gleaner homepage and an improved member portal. The portal features user-friendly access to your certificate information, upcoming events and information on your arbor (local service club). When the new website is available, you will be able to access it by visiting www.gleanerlife.org. At first, you will notice that this URL points to Gleaner’s outgoing website. Click on the banner image promoting the new www.gleanerlife.org to redirect to the new and improved website. The old website will still be available for the remainder of the summer. Please note, the first time you visit the new portal, you will be prompted to create a new member account. This will be your login on the new website moving forward, but through the end of the summer, you will still have access to the old portal by using your former login information. For your convenience, we’ve provided the detachable card on this page for you to record your new username and password for future reference.
We look forward to sharing our new website with you! If you have difficulty logging on to the new member portal, contact the Home Office at 800.992.1894.
www.gleanerlife.org
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5
Frank Dick takes part in Honor Flight On June 14, 2016, Chairman Emeritus and past
president Frank Dick participated in an Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., where he visited several memorials,
including the World War II Memorial. Gleaner President and CEO Kevin Marti accompanied him on this
commemorative journey. Upon his return to Toledo, he
was greeted by a large crowd gathered to honor him and other veterans. Dick served in the U.S. Army during
World War II in the 80th Combat Infantry Division. He
was wounded in the Battle of the Bulge, a major offensive against Germany near the end of the war, and received
several medals including the Purple Heart, Bronze Star and Combat Infantry Badge.
Gleaner celebrates 30 years of Flag Day Gleaner Life Insurance Society held its 30th annual Flag Day event
on June 14, 2016, with more than 300 in attendance for the free event at Gleaner’s Home Office. Attendees celebrated the American flag
and America’s devotion to patriotism, as they honored veterans and military personnel in service today. In addition to the ceremonial
raising of the flag, veterans dressed in full uniform saluted the flag
as community members recited the Pledge of Allegiance and sang “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Gleaner Board Member Margaret
Noe (pictured upper left) gave the keynote address. Several state
and national government officials also attended and spoke. This year, Gleaner also partnered with the Red Cross for a blood drive. Thirtynine units were collected—enough to save 100 lives.
6
\ Summer 2016 \ Forum Magazine
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Happenings
GLEANER
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Gleaner
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Fort y-t h Moun ree particip tains fo an r a Gle ts traveled to the aner G Sm o k etawa y y Tour in Apr il.
Forum Magazine \ Summer 2016 \
7
Do something different
this summer For many, summer is a time to get away from the realities of life for short respites. It makes sense since, as children, summer meant lazy days and shorter nights. It meant swimming at lakes or in neighborhood pools. It meant telling ghost stories and making s'mores around campfires. It meant pickup baseball games and sleepovers and Fourth of July fireworks. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of summer, even if there are still daily responsibilities that don’t take breaks during the summer. While you’re busy hosting or attending a barbecue, going for boat rides and packing for your annual camping trip, don’t get so caught up in the daily routines that you overlook opportunities for new experiences. Summer is a good time to reflect on your goals as you near that halfway mark of the year. If you have gotten away from your New Year’s resolutions, summer is a perfect time to reassess. From establishing a cash-only spending plan to attending a community picnic or paddleboarding for the first time, this summer is your perfect chance to do something different.
Finances If you primarily use your debit card for shopping and find yourself dipping into your savings account after going over your budgeted expenses, consider trying a cash-only spending method for a month this summer. It just takes a few minutes and a trip to the bank to get started. 8
\ Summer 2016 \ Forum Magazine
Grab enough envelopes for all of your spending needs. Some examples are groceries, gas and entertainment. Then, place your budgeted amount of cash for each category in the corresponding envelopes. Once the money from each envelope is depleted, try to wait until the next month to add more money. This activity can be a major eye-opener and help you get (or stay) on track with your finances. If you already utilize this budget method for daily expenses, try using it on your summer vacation or when you go back-to-school shopping.
Lifestyle Summer is a great time to explore new terrain and hobbies. Check out local community calendars for fun activities that you may have never tried, such as painting classes, concerts and book clubs. You can also check with your local recreation club or gym for ideas and classes like kayaking, boot camp, cardio drumming and
other fun ways to stay active and meet new people. By trying new activities, you can strengthen your mental and physical well-being.
Community If your busy schedule has limited your involvement in community and volunteer projects in the past, contact your local arbor and try volunteering at just one event. If meeting new people or your neighbors is more your goal, whip up a dish and attend one of Gleaner’s summer picnics or join in a community-wide gathering. These opportunities are available with no commitment, so you can attend when your schedule and prior commitments allow. If you already do all of these or find that none of them appeal to you, write down your own goals or just try something different on a whim when the right time presents itself.
www.gleanerlife.org
Share your
experience with us! Email us at forum@gleanerlife.org.
www.gleanerlife.org
Forum Magazine \ Summer 2016 \
9
Dear Friends at Grand
Dear Members of Crystal
Arbor (MI),
Lake Arbor (MI),
Thank you for being there.
Please accept the thanks of all Benzie County 4-H members and volunteers for your recent contribution of $500. In the four years that I have had oversight of the Benzie 4-H program, I have noticed that your generosity toward us is nearly an annual occurrence! For that, I’d like you to accept my sincerest personal thanks as well.
Your donation has created a supportive and loving community that celebrates small victories as milestones to a healthier, more stable life. You were there when Jason was able to get a bus pass to get a job interview. You were there when Sarah got help with the $9 copay for her life-saving medicine. And you were there when a dedicated volunteer, Maria, made coffee for a room full of neighbors coming in from the wintry cold. You are an important member of our community. Thank you for continuing to support your neighbors. Rev. Andy DeBraber Chief Executive Officer, Heartside Ministry
We are happy to report that your contribution has saved the day for two special 4-H activities. First, throughout the year, 4-H members and leaders can take advantage of weekend seminars at the 4-H Kettunen Center in Tustin. The topics range from arts to zoology. These folks are able to attend at no charge due to council funding that is supplemented by your contribution. Second, 4-H teens are invited to spend three days in June at the Michigan State University campus. They experience college life and have the pick of hundreds of sessions and attractions to attend. They pay a minimal portion of the fee, but the majority is covered by council funding that is supplemented by your contribution.
Dear USA Arbor (MI), On behalf of Aleda E. Lutz Veteran Affairs Medical Center’s patients and staff, I would like to extend our sincere appreciation to you for the generous donation of 60 winter hats for the veteran residents, totaling $180. Your thoughtfulness reflects the concern that you feel for the veterans who gallantly served our great nation. Without your support, we could not provide for the smaller niceties that bring joy to the veterans. Thank you for your continued interest and support of the veterans. Sincerely, Jason Christianson United States Army Veteran Chief, Voluntary Service
Sincerely, Debra A. Laws MSU Extension – Benzie & Manistee Counties 10
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It’s not too late! There’s still time to register for Gleaner’s New England and Cape Cod Getaway Tour! Sept. 19-26, 2016 Are you looking for a fun-filled, family-friendly vacation to one of America’s most historic regions? Join us for an affordable trip to New England and Cape Cod! Gleaner Getaway Tours are just one of many benefits available to Gleaner members. Highlights of this trip include: •
The Berkshires
•
The Vanderbilt family’s summer home (“The Breakers”)
•
The Big E Fair
•
Quadrangle world-class museums
•
Cranberry farm bog tour
•
Brick Market Place
•
Shaker Village
•
Historic Salem Cross Inn
•
Whale- and seal-watching cruises
•
… and much more!
The eight-day, seven-night getaway is available to Gleaner members and friends for $1,349 per person based on a double-occupancy room rate (single-, triple- and quadruple-occupancy rates are also available). Registration closes soon! For tour details and to register, visit www.gleanerlife.org or contact the Community Engagement Department at communityengagement@gleanerlife.org.
Forum Magazine \ Spring 2016 \
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The benefits of belonging Gleaner members not only provide their loved ones with financial security, but also participate in a 122-year heritage of membership, benevolence and community service.
What it means to be a Gleaner member A Gleaner benefit member is anyone who owns a life insurance or annuity certificate. As the phrase implies, benefit members are eligible for all of Gleaner’s member benefits, including scholarship opportunities, exclusive discounts through PerkSpot and family-friendly travel. Some benefits, like Gleaner’s Loyalty Bonus and College Bound Waiver, are only available on certain products. Members also have the option to volunteer with their arbor, which is a local service club consisting of other Gleaner members. Funded entirely by Gleaner, arbors provide a way for members to help serve in their communities without the hassle of fundraising. These arbors also have a say in how Gleaner conducts its business — every two years, arbors send up to three benefit members to Gleaner’s biennial convention. There, these delegates elect board members and vote on proposed changes to Gleaner’s Constitution and By-Laws. A Gleaner social member is anyone who does not own a certificate but has joined a Gleaner arbor. These members do not have voting rights and are not eligible for most member benefits. With social membership, those who are not benefit members can still help improve their communities using the resources available to Gleaner arbors. Social members also receive The Arbor Newsletter and Forum Magazine.
Become a Gleaner member with Gleaner’s Lifetime Membership Gleaner’s Lifetime Membership provides you with a $5,000 accidental death benefit — an important supplement to your existing life insurance. • • • • •
Issued for adults ages 16 and up $5,000 accidental death benefit
One-time premium payment of $100
ifetime membership and access to Gleaner’s L member benefits
enefit reduced by 50% upon attaining ages 75 B and 80
Lifetime Membership form number 41-96 with state-specific variations.
12
\ Summer 2016 \ Forum Magazine
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Engaging communities as a fraternal organization
Gleaner Life Insurance Society is classified as a fraternal benefit society, a 501(c)(8) not-for-profit organization. As a member of a fraternal benefit society, you’re a part of something much larger than financial security – you’re part of a cooperative spirit of charitable-mindedness and community service. Just by owning a Gleaner annuity or life insurance certificate, you are helping us to engage communities through donations and service projects. Fraternalism may mean quite a bit to you, or it may be an entirely new concept. Over the next year, you’ll be hearing the word ‘fraternal’ less while also hearing more about community engagement. Don’t be concerned – Gleaner is still a fraternal benefit society and always will be. But we need to bring the rich heritage of fraternalism into the vocabulary of our culture.
Welcome, Riley Creek Arbor! Riley Creek Arbor was chartered on May 2, 2016, and serves the Bluffton, Lima and Pandora, Ohio areas. Fifty people attended the Riley Creek inaugural meeting on June 2 in Bluffton, where the arbor recognized three local community members with Community Service Recognition Awards and presented two local charities with donations. As Gleaner agents in northwest Ohio, Gary Reese and Kathi Dunlap not only became familiar with Gleaner products and members but sought to get better acquainted with the heart and purpose of Gleaner. That’s when Gleaner Agent Relationship Manager Mike Stuart stepped in and explained the Samaritan program. “As I discussed this opportunity with my staff, we got really excited about the possibility of utilizing Gleaner funds to enhance and bless our local community,” said Dunlap, now Riley Creek Arbor secretary/reporter. Dunlap visited a neighboring arbor, asked questions, and organized arbor officers and requested a charter as a local arbor. “I love the idea of having a service organization that doesn’t spend all of its time fundraising. It is encouraging to be able to direct money to community endeavors that we are already helping with or involved in and to support in very tangible ways,” said Dunlap. Welcome, Riley Creek! To get involved with this arbor, contact the Community Engagement Department at communityengagement@gleanerlife.org or call 800.992.1894. President — Gary Reese Vice president — Shannon Reese Secretary/Reporter — Kathi Dunlap Treasurer — Scott Basinger Chaplain — Lynda Rodabaugh
In coming months, we’ll be introducing new words to help better describe the great impact we have on our nation. Our goal is to make the fraternal story easier to understand in words that your community connects with. That’s why we’ve renamed our Fraternal Department to be the Community Engagement Department. Gleaner Life Insurance Society is proud of its 122-year heritage of fraternalism, and we look forward to carrying the spirit of our heritage into the twentyfirst century and beyond! L-R: Fraternal Communicator, Ruth Benien; Secretary/Reporter, Kathi Dunlap; Chaplain, Lynda Rodabaugh; Treasurer, Scott Basinger; Vice President, Shannon Reese and President and Gleaner Agent, Gary Reese. www.gleanerlife.org
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13
Gleaner celebrates its two newest retirees Jan Goulart Longtime Vice President of Human Resources and Administration Jan Goulart retired from Gleaner Life Insurance Society in April. She began working for Gleaner in 1978, when the company was located in Birmingham, Michigan. Goulart relocated with the Society in 1981, when it moved to Adrian. Kevin Marti, president and CEO of Gleaner Life Insurance Society, said, “Jan Goulart has served the Gleaner Life Insurance Society loyally, with enthusiasm, for the past 38 years, including her service to the community in many ways. She has been a great representative and advocate for Gleaner employees over the years as well.” During her career, Goulart served on various boards, including the Better Business Bureau of Northwestern Ohio and Southeastern Michigan and the Adrian Area Chamber of Commerce. She also was president of the American Fraternal Alliance's State Fraternal Congresses and Human Resources sections and president of the Michigan Fraternal Alliance.
Sherry Nino Gleaner Life Insurance Society recently bid farewell to Sherry Nino, longtime vice president of fraternal operations, who retired on June 1, after 35 years of service. Nino joined Gleaner’s staff in 1981 as a secretary in the Fraternal Department shortly after the Society moved from Birmingham, Michigan, to Adrian, Michigan. Her position advanced to fraternal assistant in 1988 and to vice president in 2008. “It can be said unequivocally that no one at Gleaner is better known or respected throughout our whole membership for their many contributions to our local service clubs (arbors), which are our primary means of providing volunteer opportunities for our members. These community service and outreach programs make such a positive impact in the communities in which Gleaner members live and serve,” said Kevin Marti, president and CEO of Gleaner Life Insurance Society. “On behalf of our Board of Directors, our membership and our employees, we thank Sherry for her loyal and dedicated service to the Society over the past 35 years, and wish her a happy, healthy retirement.” As vice president of fraternal operations, Nino supervised Fraternal Department staff, coordinated the Society’s arbor system and development of new arbors throughout six states, and planned fraternal activities. She also managed the activities of Gleaner’s state associations and fraternal communicators. Nino’s professional affiliations have included national and state organizations. She represented the Society first as a chair of the Michigan Fraternal Congress (MFC) Executive Board and then served as MFC president. She was also a member of the American Fraternal Alliance’s Advocacy Task Force. Locally, Nino continues to volunteer for community service projects and activities as a member of Adrian Arbor. 14
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Home Office announces promotions Gleaner Life Insurance Society recently named Dan Gordon senior vice president of distribution and community engagement. In addition to overseeing the Marketing Department and the Distribution Department (formerly the Agency Department), Gordon now also oversees the Community Engagement Department (formerly the Fraternal Department). “We are excited to announce the recent promotion of Dan Gordon, who will continue to lead our efforts in marketing for the Society and working with our independent agents. In addition, he is leading our new Gleaner Financial subsidiary initiative, while assuming new senior management responsibilities over our community engagement efforts,� said Kevin Marti, president and CEO of Gleaner Life Insurance Society. In addition, Jeffrey Patterson's role was recently expanded. Patterson's new title, senior vice president of finance and insurance operations, reflects both his longtime leadership of Gleaner's financial operations and his new role in leading insurance operations, which includes underwriting, new business and member services.
Following recent retirements and other staff changes, five employees were also named assistant vice presidents: Grier Edwards Assistant vice president, distribution and marketing
(Formerly Agency Department manager)
Deborah Elliott
Assistant vice president, human resources and administration
(Joined Gleaner in this role in spring 2016)
Michelle Horn Assistant vice president, community engagement
(Formerly Fraternal Department manager)
www.gleanerlife.org
Michael Tunney Assistant vice president, insurance operations and chief underwriter
(Formerly new business and underwriting manager and chief underwriter)
Kaylene Warner
Assistant vice president, finance and controller
(Formerly finance manager and controller)
Gleaner appoints Baker to Board of Directors During its last quarterly meeting, Gleaner Life Insurance Society’s Board of Directors voted unanimously to elect Donna Baker to fill the vacancy left when longtime board member Richard Bennett passed away in October. A certified public accountant, Baker is associate professor of accountancy, business and economics at Adrian College and a managing partner at the CPA firm Donna Baker & Associates. She is also active in the community as a Lenawee Christian School board trustee; Farm Bureau member and third-grade agriculture awareness instructor; Dover Township treasurer; United Methodist Church member and vacation Bible school leader; and member of the American Institute of CPAs and the Michigan Association of CPAs. Baker is a past United Bank & Trust Lenawee Market director and IRS advisory committee member. Prior to teaching at Adrian College, Baker chaired the accounting department at Siena Heights University. A founding member of Lenawee Community Arbor of Michigan, Baker is also involved with 4-H Kiwanis and Athena. She holds a master's degree in business administration. She resides in Clayton, Michigan, with her husband, Kim Baker, who owns and operates a 450-cow dairy farm. The Bakers have five children. Forum Magazine \ Summer 2016 \
15
Take one last
FAMILY TRIP
before fall
It’s often when parents are busy preparing for their graduating senior’s open house that they realize the truth behind Gretchen Rubin’s popular saying, “The days are long, but the years are short.” So leave the dishes in the sink and the laundry in the dryer, and make the most of your time with family this summer, even if you can only get away for a weekend or day trip. Here are some ideas that won’t empty your wallet. And if your children are already grown, enjoy the company of your spouse or friends to make the most of this summer.
Picnic at a lake Pack a cooler and visit a lake for the day. From the Great Lakes to local watering holes, Michigan and surrounding states offer a variety of lake options to delight youth of all ages. If you have little ones, be sure to pack sand toys, sunscreen, a blanket and umbrella. If your vehicle isn’t permanently occupied with car seats or boosters, replace the sand toys with your favorite reading material and an iPod to enjoy a relaxing day when you’re not splashing in the water.
Hike local trails Your state’s Department of Natural Resources, along with nonprofit organizations like The Nature Conservancy, maintain parks and hiking trails so you can take in nature’s beauty as you log miles on your pedometer or fitness tracker. Visit trails.com to find a trail near you.
Scream at amusement parks Relive the thrill (or terror) of a winding, steep roller coaster by visiting one of America’s many amusement parks. From big ones like Cedar Point (Sandusky, Ohio), Kings Island (Mason, Ohio) and Six Flags Great America (Gurnee, Illinois) to smaller ones like Indiana Beach (Monticello, Indiana), Michigan’s Adventure (Muskegon, Michigan) and Worlds of Fun (Kansas City, Missouri), there’s likely a ride or two that can bring out the kid in anyone.
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www.gleanerlife.org
Don’t forget to pack Benny! If you have a mini Benny, be sure to pack him and send in pictures of your family and Benny for inclusion in Gleaner’s future publications! Email photos to forum@gleanerlife.org. Also, consider joining Gleaner for its Cape Cod Getaway Tour in September. Read more details on Page 11.
Cheer for the home team Grab your favorite baseball hat, and head to the nearest park to take in America’s pastime. From the major leagues to the minors, there are games to entertain fans of all ages. Many minor league teams have a wealth of kid-friendly activities if your children aren’t as interested in the slow pace of the game. Visit milb.com to find a minor league game near you.
Rough it for a night Unplug with a night away from electronics as you pitch a tent and build a fire to enjoy the company of your family and friends. Cook dinner over the fire and tell ghost stories as you listen to the crackle of the flames.
See endangered species Summer is the perfect time to visit and support a local zoo. Many offer affordable rates so you and your family can see animals from around the world.
Keep your mind sharp If the outdoors doesn’t appeal to you, consider a trip to a bigger city where you can explore a museum or take in a performance. Chicago’s Museum of Science and Industry, the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis and Minneapolis’ Walker Art Center offer a range of arts to entertain guests. While you’re in the city, pick the cuisine of your choice to make the most of your mini vacation. If none of these ideas fit your schedule or piques your interest, make your own vacation agenda and create some fun memories this summer!
www.gleanerlife.org
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50 yr.
Arkansas Richard K. Buskirk, Greenbrier Illinois Ronald W. Buerger, Joliet Walter Chornomaz, Arlington Heights Marianne Gray, Watseka Scott L. Lagger, Lockport Indiana Patricia Huppert, Rochester Catherine A. Overmeyer, Lowell Diane L. Russell, Chesterton
75 yr.
Massachusetts Mark A. Knox, Everett Michigan Allene Clayton, West Branch Gail R. Cole, Buchanan Daniel J. Korman, Lupton Ronald O. Neeland, Rosebush Joanne L. Parker, Lowell John H. Reding, Flint Denise K. Rossman, Perrinton Robert Shears, Clio Michael L. Terwilliger, Mt. Pleasant Leslie T. Vought II, Sanford Shellie K. Walter, St. Johns Ruthann Willson, Clifford Dale R. Wood, Marlette
Florida Robert D. Gray, The Villages George Johnston, Hernando
Arizona Donna J. Green, Phoenix California Patricia L. Craig, Santa Clara David E. Crawford, Sebastopol
Indiana Judith K. Barnes, Elwood Gloria J. Whetstone, Hamilton
Colorado Jeanine E. Sandwisch, Littleton
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Texas Allen W. Murray, La Porte Virginia Marjorie Gerring, Elkton Canada Gene R. Carson, Kensington, Prince Edward Island
New York Edward J. Zabrocki III, Cross River
Illinois Paretta W. Dirks, Gilman Marilyn S. Gaffney, Winnetka Linard Kessinger, Watseka Robert J. Mosborg, Lisle Marjorie L. Picha, Plainfield Madeleine M. Power, Bradley William Schoolman, Sheldon Charles F. Sweeney, Watseka
Alaska Shirley A. Campbell, Juneau
Ohio Holly L. Bowser, Austinburg David J. Munch, Cincinnati Stephen E. Poole, Garrettsville Debra S. Siville, Perrysburg Sharon Wendt, Curtice
Michigan Duane A. Beamish, Owosso Joyce A. Brown, Ubly Linda Lee Hallead, Ionia Ohio Myrna J. Blair, Napoleon Delbert F. Cook, Lebanon Ronald L. Fisher, Napoleon Kathleen K. Jones, Reynoldsburg Daniel R. Light, Napoleon Barbara J. Queen, Mt. Gilead Doris J. Reighard, Liberty Center Jean M. Williams, Holgate Tennessee Alice Terry, Cleveland Virginia Anthony Swanchara, Springfield
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 fi lled with activities that help children think about their hopes and dreams for the world. Th is 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. Th is 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 fi nancial 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: __________________________________
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City/State: ________________________________
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# of The Giving Book: _______ # of The Nickels, Dimes and Dollars Book: _______ x $10.00 (each) = $ _______
www.gleanerlife.org Please allow 2-4 weeks for shipping.
Forum Magazine \ Summer 2016 \
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There’s something so freeing about gathering with family and friends for a barbecue to celebrate life. This summer, invite your loved ones, friends or neighbors over for no particular reason. Talk about your blessings, take a load off from the stresses of life and simply enjoy good food and company. Here are a few tips to help your barbecue be a success without stressing too much over hosting guests.
1. Transform simple classics with a few simple steps •
Marinate your steak or chicken to bring out a tender, flavorful main dish. Use the marinade recipe on right, or try one of your own.
•
Try shish kebabs as a simple way to appeal to vegetarians, using vegetables from your garden or local farmers market.
•
Plan your menu based on what’s in season. If you’re hosting an August gathering in Michigan, plan for corn on the cob, and try the seasoned butter spread recipes on right.
2. Grill While most people think of meat when grilling, try adding asparagus and assorted peppers to the top rack of your grill for a healthy and flavorful side. All it takes is a little bit of olive oil, salt and pepper.
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3. Potluck style Ask your guests to contribute by bringing their favorite side dish, dessert or fruit salad. Use some simple recipes from Gleaner’s Home Grown cookbook.
4. Utilize easy entertainment Make a quick playlist of some of your favorite summertime songs to play in the background and help set the mood. Pull out the yard games — everyone loves horseshoes, corn hole and croquet. Relax and mingle with your guests.
5. Decorate with simple, natural elements Think dollar store for an assortment of vibrantly colored dinnerware and tablecloths, and scour your backyard for blooming wildflowers. Remember, your guests are there for food and company, so don’t stress over the décor.
www.gleanerlife.org
Marinade ¼ cup soy sauce
2 teaspoons grated fresh
1 cup beer or nonalcoho
1 or 2 drips hot sauce
or chopped candied gin
lic beer (room temperat
ger
ure)
2 tablespoons brown su
gar
Combine all of the ing red
ients and mix well. Pu
t four pork chops or ch
icken breasts in a self-s ealing rigerate for 4 to 24 ho urs. Remove from fridg Note: Remember to dis e and grill. pose of the marinade aft er use. Do not reuse. Home Grown Recipes, Vo l. 3, Page 403 plastic bag and pour in
Cor n on
marinade. Seal and ref
reads
Butter Sp d e n o s a e S h it w the Cob
Dill sil leaves 2 teaspoons dried ba llweed 1 teaspoon dried di ice 1 teaspoon lemon ju ned 1 stick of butter, softe Italian sil leaves ¼ teaspoon dried ba egano leaves ¼ teaspoon dried or lt ¼ teaspoon garlic sa ned 1 stick of butter, softe
Horseradish rsley, chopped 1 tablespoon fresh pa ¼ teaspoon salt pepper ⅛ teaspoon ground horseradish 1 teaspoon prepared ned 1 stick of butter, softe Sesame Mustard e seeds, toasted 2 tablespoons sesam ¼ teaspoon salt tard ¼ teaspoon dr y mus pepper ⅛ teaspoon ground ned fte 1 stick of butter, so
medium mixing bowl. Beat at all sm a in ts ien ed gr all in spread at room tter spread, combine utes). Serve seasoned in m -2 For each seasoned bu (1 ffy flu d e seasoned often, until light an d 1 tablespoon of th ad g, in ill gr r speed, scraping bowl Fo p. ½ cu -25 minutes. To t sweet corn. Makes er y 5 minutes for 20 ev rn Tu temperature with ho il. fo in g in rs of corn. corn before wrapp ¼ cup water and 4 ea ne bi m co , sh di spread to each ear of ng inutes baki utes). Let stand 4 m eased 12-by-8-inch in gr m un 11 an 0in (1 e, er av nd ow te micr inutes until ; turn corn ever y 3 m Microwave on high th selected spread. to drain. Slather wi ge Center Arbor Shirley Dick, Porta Vol. 3, Page 98 Home Grown Recipes,
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Arbor SPOT LIGHT
Night at the movies raises money and awareness A night at the movies often brings together family and friends. That’s why Fallen Timbers Arbor (OH) chose to show the original “Star Wars” movie at the Maumee Indoor Theatre, where they provided free tickets and refreshments in exchange for donations for the Food for Thought Food Pantry, a local charity. The arbor invited Boy Scout troops and advertised the event in the local newspaper and on Facebook. Their efforts paid off as 266 attended. Before the movie started, Fallen Timbers Arbor President Jerel Fish and Laura Schaffer of Food for Thought spoke briefly about the work they do to combat hunger. “Food for Thought is unique in that, instead of just having a static location, they operate as a mobile food pantry, taking food directly into communities where many in need don't have access to transportation to travel to a pantry location,” said Fish, who is also a Gleaner agent. The arbor raised $789.50 in cash and more than $300 in food donations for the pantry. “They told us it was the most donations they'd ever taken in at such an event,” said Fish. “This event was a lot of fun. Kids of all ages were thrilled to get the chance to see ‘Star Wars’ on the big screen. But it was truly humbling to have been able to support Food for Thought the way this event did. I never imagined we would raise so much for them, and it was a wonderful feeling to be a part of making that happen,” said Fish. In addition to sponsoring a fun event and raising money and donations for a great cause, Fallen Timbers planted a seed for future events. “As a new arbor, spreading awareness and, hopefully, encouraging others to get involved is a major goal in all of our projects,” said Fish. “Partnering with groups like the Boy Scouts and organizations like Food for Thought helps to extend our network and spread the word about our projects and activities to a much wider audience than we could reach on our own.”
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USA Arbor (MI) partners with youth to make positive impact Children entering foster care likely have a lot on their young minds, wondering when they will see their parents again and where they will live and attend school. The Superheroes in Training 4-H Club wanted to make this tough transition a little easier by providing an alternative to the trash bags that are often used to collect and transport the possessions of youth in foster care. USA Arbor (MI) members partnered with these youth volunteers to decorate duffel bags donated by the arbor for children in the foster care system. The bags, packed with blankets, coloring books, crayons and personal hygiene items, will be used by the children when they move between homes. USA Arbor purchased 20 duffel bags from Together We Rise, an organization founded by young adults to change the way children experience foster care by providing “sweet cases” so children don’t have to place their belongings in trash bags. Partnering with youth organizations is common for Gleaner arbors, but the impact the Superheroes in Training 4-H Club had on other children made USA Arbor’s recent community project memorable. “It is important to show kids how they can impact others to give back in their community,” said Sherri Thorp, USA Arbor president. Many of the youth really delved into the decorating by creating hand-drawn designs like flowers, hearts and dragons, and writing encouraging messages such as “You’re awesome” and “You are not alone.” While the project helped provide a tangible takeaway for youth in foster care, it also brought foster care to the forefront of the minds of Superheroes 4-H members. “Not all kids have two adults who can take care of them all the time. By helping with these duffel bags, they provided kids with a way to keep their most important possession together while they were in foster care,” said Thorp.
www.gleanerlife.org
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ARBORS
in action
Traditions are only created when generation after generation team up to keep the work relevant and impactful. That’s why Gleaner arbors (service clubs) work to get youth involved as often as possible. Spring 2016 was no exception. Gleaner arbors donated educational tools and organized educational seminars at local schools, and teamed with youth to serve the elderly and beautify their communities.
Bay Area Arbor (FL) donated 130 graphing calculators, printing supplies and graphing paper to the math department at East Bay High School.
Birch Run Arbor (MI) members partnered with local high school students and the Faithful Sewers to make quilts for the Holy Cross Rehabilitation Center in Saginaw and pillowcases for The Foster Closet in Clio. The arbor donated $500 to help offset the cost of the materials.
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Glen Arbor (MI) members, along with Garner Elementary Principal John Darga and honor students, planted a tulip poplar tree in honor of Earth Day. Arbor President Steve Cameron then spoke at the school assembly about Earth Day and Arbor Day.
Greater Flint Area Arbor (MI) worked with Sarah Hogan’s first-grade students at Weston Elementary School to create holiday cards showing large rainbows and cheery greetings for each of the residents at Swank Home Assisted Living in Swartz Creek. These cards were given away at a St. Patrick’s Day party for the residents where Harry Mitchell, a professional actor, entertained the group with tales, jokes and an Irish sing-along. www.gleanerlife.org
Did you know all Gleaner members are part of an arbor? Through their arbor, members have the opportunity to have a voice in how the funding from Gleaner is used to help others. If you aren’t active with an arbor, now is the perfect time to find one near you. Contact Gleaner’s Community Engagement Department at communityengagement@gleanerlife.org or 800.992.1894.
Madison Arbor (MI) members worked with 14 Madison High School Interact Club students to make five fleece tie blankets and donated them to the VA hospital in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Portage Center Arbor (OH) members served at the Elmwood Elementary School Library for the day to read to classes from grades K-4. Books had been newly purchased for the library by the arbor.
USA Arbor (MI) hosted an assembly where Eugene Clark made a presentation titled “Think Green,” which helped students think about the four R’s: recycle, reuse, reduce and restore. Members also worked with the National Honor Society from USA High School to package 500 Norwegian pines, which were given out after the assembly. www.gleanerlife.org
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Join us for a summer picnic! Warm weather and longer days are now upon us! Whip up your favorite side dish, and join Gleaner at one of our family picnics near you this summer. These picnics are a long-standing Gleaner tradition, complete with delicious food, fellowship with other members, children’s activities and a charity auction. Guests of all ages will also get to meet Benny, the Benevolent Lion, while recipients of Gleaner scholarships will be recognized for their achievements. At these potluck events, Gleaner provides the main dish. Please bring your own table service and a generous dish or two to share.
Ohio Family Picnic
Saturday, July 30 | 1 p.m. EDT The Lighthouse 10055 W. U.S. Route 224 Findlay, Ohio
Northern Michigan Family Picnic
Southern Michigan Family Picnic
Weidman Community Center 3432 N. Woodruff Road Weidman, Michigan
Lenawee County Fairgrounds 602 Dean St. Adrian, Michigan
Saturday, Aug. 6 | 1 p.m. EDT
Saturday, Aug. 13 | 1 p.m. EDT
Benny’s Charity Auctions at Summer Picnics Benny’s Charity Auction will give picnic guests a chance to take home an auction item. Instead of bidding a specific dollar amount on an item, guests can purchase tickets and enter as many of those tickets as they like in an item’s corresponding box. At the end of the auction, a ticket is drawn from each prize box, and the item goes to the individual with the winning ticket. Attendees who bring an item for the auction valued at $20 or more can purchase an auction ticket for half price. All proceeds from the auction will be donated to local charities.
Upcoming Events Gleaner Getaway Tour New England and Cape Cod Sept. 19-26, 2016
Register today at www.gleanerlife.org.
Gleaner Day Oct. 1, 2016
Greenfield Village at The Henry Ford Dearborn, Michigan Learn more at www.gleanerday.com.
Gleaner’s 2016 Family Safari to Kalahari Nov. 18-20, 2016
Kalahari Resort and Waterpark Sandusky, Ohio Visit www.gleanerlife.org to register.
Did you find the wheat stalk?
In this issue of Forum Magazine, the wheat stalk was hidden in the Honor Flight photos on page 6. 26
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www.gleanerlife.org
It’s It’s a a Risk Risk You You Don’t Don’t Have Have to to Take Take
But so many people are taking an unneccessary But people are taking an unneccessary risk so by many not protecting their families with that risk by not protecting their families with ones that financial safety net. It means your loved financial safety net. It means your loved ones would suffer financially if something happened would suffer financially if something happened to you. to you. It’s time to protect your family’s financial It’s timeGet to protect your family’s financialit’s future. life insurance. It’s affordable; future. It’s affordable; it’s doable Get and life it’s insurance. the right thing to do for your doable andhelp, it’s the thing to do for your family. For goright to www.lifehappens.org. family. For help, go to www.lifehappens.org. Let’s get it done. Let’s get it done.
—DANICA PATRICK —DANICA PATRICK professional race car driver
‘‘
‘‘ D D
riving race cars for a living means going riving racean cars for around a living ameans going 200 miles hour track with 200 miles hour around a track concrete walls.an I know the risks, whichwith is why concrete walls. I knowsince the risks, which why I’ve had life insurance the start of is my I’ve had life insurance since the start of my career. But that’s not the only reason I own it. career. But that’s not the only reason I own it. As teenagers, both my parents lost their As teenagers, both lost My their fathers. Neither hadmy lifeparents insurance. mom fathers. Neither had life insurance. My mom was one of five kids, and remembers her mom was one of five kids, and remembers her having to sell off most of the family farm mom as having to sell off most of the family farm as a result. So my parents made sure they had a result. So parents sure they hadin coverage tomy take care ofmade my sister and me coverage to takehappened care of mytosister and me in case something them. case something happened to them.
professional race car and spokesperson fordriver and spokesperson for Life Insurance Awareness Month Life Insurance Awareness Month
www.gleanerlife.org
Danica Patrick is the national spokesperson for Life Insurance Awareness Month 2016, and her services were retained by Life Happens. © Life Happens 2016. All rights reserved. Danica Patrick is the national spokesperson for Life Insurance Awareness Month 2016, and her services were retained by Life Happens. © Life Happens 2016. All rights reserved.\ Summer 2016 \ 27 Forum Magazine
Recipe file Do you have a favorite recipe you’d like to share? We’d love to feature your recipe! Send a copy to forum@gleanerlife.org or mail to: Gleaner Life Insurance Society, Attn: Marketing Department, 5200 West U.S. Hwy. 223, P.O. Box 1894, Adrian, MI 49221
Even though the days are longer, summer can be a busy time of year! As you race from meetings to ball games and potlucks, don’t feel compelled to stop by the store for a prepared dish. Gleaner arbor members offer a couple of recipes that can be prepared when you’re short on time.
Strawberry Spinach Salad 3 tablespoons champagne or white wine vinegar 1 tablespoon strawberry spreadable fruit or reduced-sugar preserves 1 teaspoon vegetable oil 5 cups fresh spinach, rinsed and trimmed 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved ¼ cup unsalted dry-roasted almonds, sliced In a small jar with a tight-fitting lid, combine vinegar, spreadable fruit and oil. Cover and shake until ingredients are well-combined. Place in the refrigerator until serving time. Tear spinach into bite-size pieces. Place in a large salad bowl and add strawberries. Shake dressing, pour over spinach mixture and toss to coat. Sprinkle with almonds. Serves 4. Mary Kitson Tecumseh, Michigan Home Grown Recipes, Vol. 3, Page 77
Microwave Pineapple Upside-Down Cake ¼ cup butter or margarine ½ cup brown sugar, packed 6 slices canned pineapple, drained 1 (9-ounce) package yellow cake mix In a 9-inch round glass baking dish, melt butter in microwave, about 2 minutes. Stir in brown sugar. Arrange pineapple slices on top. Prepare cake mix according to package directions and pour over pineapple. Microwave on defrost setting for 7 minutes. Change to high setting and microwave 3-4 minutes or until toothpick inserted near center comes out clean. Let stand 1 minute. Turn upside down on serving plate. Serve warm or cool. Serves 6. Home Grown Recipes, Vol. 3, Page 296
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Korinne’s Korner May and June are behind us, which means Mother’s Day and Father’s Day celebrations have come and gone. A few years ago, Kevin gave me a mother’s “footprints” necklace. Birthstones for each of our three children and our two grandchildren adorn the charm. As I was putting it around my neck, checking it out in the mirror, my mind started spinning (a usual occurrence). It’s overwhelming to me how our words and actions impact our loved ones. This is SO true for all of us — memories we carry from our own journeys as well. My Uncle Will always called me Korky. He would torment my mother, saying, “Where did you find a name like Korinne?” Until the day he passed away in 2007, I was always Korky to him. The memory warms my heart. Don’t get me wrong, I love my unusual name and spelling. Let’s face it, I am an original. I doubt my uncle gave much thought to my family nickname and imagine that’s true with many of the “footprints” on our hearts. “Memory is a way of holding onto the things you love, the things you are, the things you never want to lose.” —Kevin Arnold I am sharing a cookie recipe of my mom’s that I bake and take to many Gleaner summer picnics — an easy bar recipe that feeds many and is enjoyed by all.
Deep Butter Cookie Bars 1 yellow cake mix 1 stick margarine 3 eggs, divided 8 ounces cream cheese 1 box (1 pound) powdered sugar
Combine cake mix, cold margarine and 1 egg in a mixer until blended. Press into a greased and floured 13 x 9-inch pan. Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar and 2 eggs. Pour over cake mixture. Bake until golden at 350 degrees for 45-50 minutes. Cool completely and cut into bars. Enjoy! In closing: “The best gifts in the world are not in the material objects one can buy from the store, but in the memories we make with the people we love.” — Amanda Boyarshinor Fraternally yours,
Korinne Marti Wife of Gleaner President and CEO Kevin Marti
www.gleanerlife.org
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Benny’s page
Hi, kids! I hope you are enjoying your summer vacation! Have you gone on any fun, exciting trips with your family or friends? In June, I spent a weekend at Cedar Point with the Holly family of Adrian, Michigan. I certainly enjoyed roller coaster thrills and fun in the sun. While trips are fun, the summer can be very busy. Between family vacations, summer camp, sports and more, it can be hard to find time to do good things for others. But I encourage you to do good things wherever you’re at! If you’re on a family vacation, make the trip easier on your parents by getting along with your brothers and sisters. If you’re at summer camp, be a friend to someone who might have a hard time fitting in. If you’re playing in any sports, be a team player and encourage those who are struggling to do well. See? Doing good things on summer break doesn’t have to be so difficult after all! I look forward to seeing many of you at one of Gleaner’s summer picnics. You can learn more about these family-friendly events on Page 26. Until then, have a great summer doing good things for others!
Benny
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Going on vacation? Take Benny! Take Benny with you on your adventures. Then, have your parents send photos of his travels to marketing@gleanerlife.org. Your photos may end up on Benny’s Page in Forum Magazine! Mini Bennys are provided with each new Just For Kids® certificates.
www.gleanerlife.org
Gleaner partners with PerkSpot to offer members hundreds of discounts Gleaner Life Insurance Society recently partnered with PerkSpot to offer its members discounts to merchants in dozens of categories, including apparel, automotive, computers and electronics, food, health and wellness, sports and outdoors, theme parks, toys — and so much more. PerkSpot is a free one-stop shop for exclusive discounts to many national and local merchants. Getting started is easy. Gleaner members can sign up in the member portal at gleanerlife.org. Once logged into PerkSpot, members can browse discounts in a number of convenient ways by perusing categories, searching for favorite merchants or using a streamlined map to discover local discounts. Members can also opt in to receive PerkSpot’s weekly email with a curated selection of discounts. Each week’s email features new and popular deals as well as seasonal and thematic groupings of offers. If members don’t see the retailer or product they want, they can request a merchant through their PerkSpot account. PerkSpot’s negotiating experts will work to get favorite merchants of members. PerkSpot is just one of the many benefits Gleaner members receive. If you aren’t a Gleaner member, now is the perfect time to purchase a life insurance product or an annuity and take advantage of the many benefits that coincide with being a Gleaner member.
www.gleanerlife.org
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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:
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• 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 (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
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.
www.gleanerlife.org
Coverage and cash value for
the long run.
Endurance Life combines all of the benefits of whole life insurance with the simplicity of a single, lump-sum premium payment. Over the course of your lifetime, you can grow cash value while enjoying the security of coverage that will never lapse. Whether purchased on its own or as an additional certificate with your
current coverage, Endurance Life guarantees that your loved ones will have the financial security to face life’s unexpected challenges.
Endurance Life is built for all life stages. You can begin building financial security and cash value for yourself as well as a child or grandchild. For more information on securing your loved ones with single-premium whole life insurance, contact your Gleaner agent, listed on the back of this publication.
If you don’t have a Gleaner agent, you can find one online at the new www.gleanerlife.org.
www.gleanerlife.org Gleaner Life Insurance Society is domiciled in Adrian, Michigan, and licensed in AZ, FL, IA, IL, IN, K S, KY, MI, MO, NE, OH, TN and VA. Endurance Life form number ICC15-SPWL with state-specific variations. www.gleanerlife.org
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5200 West U.S. Highway 223, P.O. Box 1894 Adrian, Michigan 49221-7894
Nonprofit Organization U.S. POSTAGE PAID BOLINGBROOK, IL PERMIT NO. 594