Issuu

How do you define your

legacy?

You’ve spent a lifetime saving and diligently working to build a legacy that will carry your life’s work forward, both now and in your absence. Whether you’re building an inheritance for loved ones or guaranteeing a bright future for a charitable organization, Legacy Life can help you seamlessly pass on your savings without the complexities of estate planning. By purchasing Legacy Life now, you can use the guaranteed insurability option to purchase additional coverage from ages 50 to 64 without proving your insurability. As often as once per year, you can purchase an additional single-premium whole life certificate using funds from existing accounts, like: •

Maturing CDs

•

Money market accounts

•

Annuities that are out of their surrender period

•

Traditional savings

Each new certificate can benefit the same or different beneficiaries, including charities that are close to your heart. You don’t have to purchase additional coverage each year, but each additional certificate builds an even bigger financial future for the people and organizations you love.

For more information on Legacy Life, contact your Gleaner agent, listed on the back cover, or the Agency Department at agency@gleanerlife.org or call 800.992.1894.

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-SPWL with state-specific variations. This single-premium whole life plan is a Modified Endowment Contract (MEC), and as such, gains in the contract are taxable as income when distributions,

including loans are made. For more detail on the tax implications of a MEC, you should consult with a legal or tax advisor.

\ Winter 2016 \ Forum Magazine

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Contents Winter 2016

features

at a glance

12 Jump-start your

new year: Make resolutions for life

As you consider what goals you want to achieve in the New Year, why not assess your lifelong goals and incorporate those into your plans. Read some ideas to get you started on tackling those goals that seem reserved for later in life.

16 Gleaner launches

single-premium whole life insurance

Continue building financial security through new options that allow you to use existing funds to leave a legacy for loved ones or favorite charities.

From the president

on the cover

Upcoming events

19 Apply for Gleaner scholarships

57th Biennial Convention recap

onfronting hunger C in America

giving back

news & reviews 7 Thank-you letters 8

Kalahari recap

50- & 75-year members

Arbors in action

interests 20

Recipe File

Korinne's Korner

Benny's Travels

11 Remembering Board

Member Richard Bennett

On the cover: Madison Crane smiles with her brother, Nathan, after being crowned queen by the winning knight at Medieval Times.

Do you enjoy searching for Gleanerâ€™s wheat stalk? It's hidden in every issue of Forum Magazine. Having difficulty finding the wheat stalk in this issue? Look on page 18 for the answer.

www.gleanerlife.org

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 \ Winter 2016 \

FORUM Winter 2016 / V. 121 / No. 1 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 Vice President, Information Technology Daniel L. Gordon, FICF, CRPC® Vice President of Agency and Marketing Janet A. Goulart, CSA Vice President, Human Resources and Administration and Assistant Secretary Sherry L. Nino Vice President, Fraternal Operations Wally D. Taylor, FALU, CLU, ChFC, FLMI Senior Vice President of Insurance Operations Board of Directors Suann D. Hammersmith / Terry L. Garner Margaret M.S. Noe / Daniel R.E. 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 Legal Reserve Fraternal Life Insurance Member American Fraternal Alliance Forum Magazine Staff Alanna Cook / Dan Gordon Ian McClellan / Chuck Monahan Salina Richards / Julie Tison 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 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 Society 5200 West U.S. Hwy. 223, P.O. Box 1894 Adrian, MI 49221-7894

From the president Dear Members: We are pleased to report that we had a wonderful 57th Biennial Convention in Schaumburg, Illinois! Nearly 500 Gleaner members and guests were in attendance and enjoyed everything from a night at Medieval Times to the Charity Auction, Saturday morning business session, recognition of our arbors’ accomplishments and the charities that we benefited in the area. We also honored newly retired Board Director Dave Sutton for his 42 years of service. See the convention wrap-up on page 4 for more information.

Sutton of Indiana was newly elected to a four-year term. See the election results on page 5 for details.

As part of our business meeting, we elected three board members and unanimously approved an amendment to our Constitution that clarifies governance of our arbor system. Directors Terry Garner of Indiana and Mark Wills of Illinois were re-elected to new four-year terms on the Board of Directors. Daniel

Thank you to Sherry Nino and the Fraternal team and other volunteers who helped make the convention such a success!

We were all deeply saddened to learn Saturday at convention that longtime Director Richard Bennett of Ohio had passed away that very day. See the tribute to him on page 7. The board will be carefully considering appointment of a new director to fulfill the remaining two years of Director Bennett’s term. We will keep you apprised of the final decision.

Just two weeks later, nearly 600 Gleaner members and guests gathered in northwest Ohio at the Family Safari to Kalahari in early November. See page 8 for more details on this popular Gleaner event. In October, we introduced our new single-premium whole life plans and associated Living Benefit Riders to assist members in the event of chronic, catastrophic or terminal illness. More information is provided on these new financial solutions on page 16. Please contact your independent Gleaner agent for more detailed information on how this plan can help you build your legacy and estate. We finished the 2015 calendar year with very good operating results, which we will report on in the spring issue of Forum Magazine. The financial health of the Society is growing even stronger, and we have a number of important initiatives we will undertake in 2016 and beyond to ensure our future growth and continued success — 121 years of service and counting! Here’s hoping you had a blessed holiday season with your families and friends and are off to a great start in the New Year! Best wishes for continued prosperity and good health in 2016. Fraternally,

Kevin A. Marti President and CEO

www.gleanerlife.org

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\ Winter 2016 \ Forum Magazine

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Gleaner’s 57th Biennial Convention On Oct. 23-25, members gathered at the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center Hotel in Illinois for Gleaner’s 57th Biennial Convention. Attendees conducted the business of the Society and enjoyed a fun-filled weekend. During the three-day period, Gleaner members also banded together to lend a helping hand to the hospitable host city. Read on for more details about the weekend.

Election for the Board of Directors Four nominees were on the ballot to fill the three seats on the Board of Directors. During the business meeting, members elected Daniel Sutton of Indiana, and re-elected incumbents Terry Garner of Indiana and Mark Wills of Illinois. Vote totals were: •

Mark Wills, 146

•

Terry Garner, 131

•

Daniel Sutton, 121

•

Donna Baker, 114

As a fifth-generation farmer, Sutton grew up with a deep appreciation for fraternalism. He is self-employed in agribusiness and co-owns eight businesses, including four real estate holding companies. He is a board member of Lake County Farm Bureau and The Arc of Northwest Indiana, a West Township Farm Bureau representative, president of Hawthorne Arbor (IN), and serves on Gleaner’s Fraternal Advisory Council.

Supreme Arbor Officers Delegates unanimously elected Linda Ruehrmund of Chester Arbor (OH) to the Supreme Arbor to fill the open position of Supreme Guard. At the close of the www.gleanerlife.org

Forum Magazine \ Winter 2016 \

business meeting, outgoing Supreme Chief Gleaner Sharon Knox of Bowling Green Arbor (OH) handed the gavel over to new Supreme Chief Gleaner Connie Bland of Sulphur Springs Arbor (IL). The current Supreme Arbor officers are:

Arbors, which moves information formerly contained in the By-Laws, but now clarifies directly in the body of the Constitution, the ways in which arbors should be chartered, governed and conduct business.

The charity auction, also a crowd favorite at Gleaner conventions, raised $4,667 for GiGi’s Playhouse Inc., an Achievement Center for people with Down Syndrome.

•

Supreme Chief Gleaner: Connie Bland, Sulphur Springs Arbor (IL)

Giving back to Schaumburg

•

Supreme Vice Chief Gleaner: Jeffrey Price, West Lockport Arbor (IL)

•

Supreme Chaplain: Dick Hadden, Adrian Arbor (MI)

•

Supreme Conductor: Norma Garner, South County Arbor (IN)

•

Supreme Guard: Linda Ruehrmund, Chester Arbor (OH)

The 57th Biennial Convention wasn’t just about business. Gleaner members had a lot of fun, too. On Friday evening, members enjoyed watching knights compete at Medieval Times. Following the business meeting on Saturday afternoon, members had the chance to tour LEGOLAND, visit a winery or Goebbert’s Farm, watch football on the big screen, shop or play a round at TopGolf. That evening, members enjoyed a formal dinner and entertainment by the Dueling Pianos of Michael and Amy.

Constitution changes Members unanimously voted to incorporate the By-Laws into the Society’s Constitution and establish Rules of Order for Arbors. The amended Constitution and ByLaws are now housed in a single document. While the documents were substantially modified, very little was changed about the way the arbor business is conducted. One modification of note includes the insertion of a new Article 10 titled

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Since giving is such a vital part of Gleaner’s history, it remains a focal point at convention. This year, Gleaner members participated in a community service project where they packed comfort care bags for Willow Creek Care Center foster care program. Arbors also donated Charity Treasure Totes to eight organizations from the Schaumburg area, filling the totes with needed items. These organizations were Little City (offering comprehensive autism programs), Village of Schaumburg Senior Program, Village of Schaumburg Teen Center, The Buddy Foundation for abandoned and abused animals, Township of Schaumburg Food Pantry, Willow Creek Military Care Center and WINGS Program Inc. (shelter for women and children). Gleaner arbors were invited to decorate their totes. A tote decorated by Grand Arbor (MI) for WINGS took first prize. WINGS received $50 for winning and Grand Arbor also donated its $50 prize award to WINGS.

Fraternal fun

The weekend concluded on Sunday with an afterglow program where representatives from each of the charities thanked the arbors for their support. Mark your calendars for Oct. 13-15, 2017, and plan to attend the 58th Biennial Convention in Traverse City, Michigan. To view convention photos and order prints, visit gleanerlifeinsurancesociety.shutterfly.com.

www.gleanerlife.org

Dear Ober Arbor (IN), Thank you for sponsoring milk shake coupons for the 4-H members and leaders again this year. I was a junior leader for six years and made at least 100 milk shakes during that time. I have now been a leader for three years with the Cloverleaf 4-H Club and continue to look forward to them every year. Thanks again!

Brittany Shannon Dear South Fairfield Arbor (MI/OH), Thank you for buying my meat chickens this year. It really means a lot to me and to 4-H in general. It was

really nice that you donated them to charity, too, because I know it means a lot to the people who benefited

from them also. 4-H has been a great experience for me, and I have learned so much from being in it. I plan to continue as long as I can and hopefully will stay involved in 4-H as an adult. I hope you have a great and successful year. I look forward to seeing you again next year at the fair. Thank you again for your support! Sincerely,

Teddy Baker-Wallerstein Dear Sherry and Fraternal Department, [The 57th Biennial Convention] was even better than the last convention. Thank you for all your work in making it great. Norm and Jan Woltjer www.gleanerlife.org

Forum Magazine \ Winter 2016 \

Gleaner members & friends enjoy Family Safari to Kalahari weekend For the sixth consecutive year, Gleaner Life Insurance Society hosted a funfilled weekend at Kalahari Resort and Waterpark in Sandusky, Ohio, on Nov. 13-15. Nearly 600 members and guests enjoyed the amenities of the countryâ€™s largest indoor water park. On Saturday night, guests gathered for an all-you-can-eat pizza party provided by Gleaner. Guests received door prizes that included Kalahari arcade gift cards, T-shirts and animal balloon bouquets. Children received tote bags filled with Gleaner nightlights and Benny masks. Children also had a chance to participate in a coloring contest (see the list of winners on page 9). And what would a Gleaner event be without Benny, the Benevolent Lion? He greeted guests and posed for photos. Gleaner was pleased to offer discounted room packages for our members and their family and friends. The annual Family Safari to Kalahari weekend is just one of the many benefits available to Gleaner members each year. Plan on joining us Nov. 18-20, 2016, for another fun-filled weekend at Kalahari.

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Coloring Contest!

John Locke

Gabi Buie

Age: 11

Age: 14

Category: 8-11 years old

Category: 12 years old and up

Son of Abbigal Locke

Daughter of Michelle & Wayne Buie

Guests visited a photo booth, and one lucky guest won a free stay at the next Gleaner Family Safari to Kalahari set for Nov. 18-20, 2016.

Congratulations, Rhonda Coutinho!

Jacob Higginbotham Age: 5 Category: 7 years old & under Son of Charlene & Tom Higginbotham www.gleanerlife.org

Forum Magazine \ Winter 2016 \

50 yr.

Arkansas Richard K. Buskirk, Greenbrier

Massachusetts Robert A. Bemis, West Borough

Colorado Arthur L. Jennings, Franktown

Michigan Debra Auten, Decker Dorothy Basner, Bay City William Boyne, Sault Ste. Marie Alice M. Denney, Athens Robert J. Eastwell, Lansing Rex A. Ebnit, Midland Joseph A. Foust, Carleton Debra Jo Halsey, Jackson Denise R. Hills, Mt. Pleasant Garold L. Hock, Midland Paul A. McKee, Port Austin Lloyd M. Spencer Jr., Albion

Florida John Chevalier, Auburndale Anna M. Young, The Villages Illinois Joseph H. Harms, Plainfield Lucinda K. Jackson, Ottawa Dianne M. McLuckie, Mazon Ronald G. Steinke, Kankakee Timothy J. Solley, Channahon Indiana Kelly M. Hladek, Hammond Tamara L. Holm, Greenwood Iowa Velma Howard, Britt

Ohio Patrick E. Eaken, Warren Lisa J. Kovach, Painesville Texas Maurice E. Devine, El Paso

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75 yr.

California Anne Somervill, Oakland Illinois Rita Kurtenbach, Kankakee Indiana Donna L. Fishburn, Plymouth Donald W. Kerber, Mitchell Michigan Carolyn Borchardt, Battle Creek Lewis C. Burns, Bangor Robert C. Cottrell, Davison Lula B. Dunham, Byron Marion M. Dymond, Freeland Ruth Fitzgerald, Coldwater Terry N. Hahn, Alpena Nancy D. Hart, North Branch Josephine A. Martin, Evart Norma S. Parker, Laingsburg Janet L. Perkins, Adrian William A. Tomlin, Crystal Barbara L. Wilcox, Novi

New Mexico Kenneth R. Nau, Albuquerque Ohio Donald L. Higbea, Defiance Charlotte A. Jones, Grelton Joyce A. Merillat, St. Louisville Daniel G. Neason, Athens Mary Lee Powell, Athens Jane E. Waltz, Centerville Marilyn L. Zuber, Mansfield Texas James C. Neason, Frisco Virginia Ruth A. Harvey, Alexandria

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Richard enjoys a convention business session.

Richard and his wife, Jeannie, attended the 56th Biennial Convention in French Lick, Indiana.

Richard with Board Director, Suann Hammersmith in 2013.

In loving memory: Richard Bennett, 1948-2015 On Saturday, Oct. 24, longtime Board Member Richard Bennett passed away. He had served on the Gleaner Life Insurance Society Board of Directors since 1993 and was a devoted contributor and supporter of the Home Office employees and agency representatives in successfully moving Gleaner ahead. He will be missed by everyone who was fortunate enough to know and work with him. “Richard always worked for the greater good, exercised sound judgment, and led with integrity,” says Gleaner Board Chair Suann Hammersmith. “He was a kind man and good friend. Richard’s loss has left an overwhelming sadness in our hearts, and a deep void on our Board of Directors. We are wishing Jeannie many special memories and peace in the depths of the love they shared.” www.gleanerlife.org

Richard was born on Oct. 11, 1948, in Napoleon, Ohio, to the late Orville and Lavon (Babcock) Bennett. On Dec. 19, 2005, he married Jeannie Fagan in Hawaii. He was a lifetime farmer who loved the beauty of the land and the harvest. From 1971 to 1973, he also taught at Liberty Center Middle School in Liberty Center, Ohio. Richard was very active in farming and served the farming industry in various capacities. He also served 16 years, from 1993 to 2008, as a Henry County, Ohio, commissioner and was a board member of the Farm Bureau for many years. He is survived by his wife, Jeannie, who lives in Napoleon; children Tim (Paulette) Bennett of Houston, Texas, Laura (Mike) Shultz of Napoleon, Craig (Mary) Bennett of Oxford, Ohio, and Joy Bennett of Findlay, Ohio; stepchildren Joy (Jeffrey) Peck of Adrian, Michigan, and Nikki Cervantes of Swanton, Ohio; and grandchildren Brandon, Nick, Darren, Jazz, Ty, Levi, Helena, Noah and Jose. Please join us in keeping Jeannie and the rest of Richard’s family in your thoughts and prayers.

Forum Magazine \ Winter 2016 \

Make your 2016 resolution reflect whatâ€™s important in your life

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ow many years have you made a New Year’s resolution confident that you will carry it through all year long, only to find your resolve abandoned by February? Will 2016 be the year that all changes? It certainly can be if you evaluate your lifestyle and the goals you want to achieve. This year, when you think about your resolution, think of ways to improve the quality of your life for the long term. Here are a few tips on how to achieve some of the more popular resolutions and maybe even a few you have not considered. These certainly go beyond “lose weight, eat healthier and exercise daily.” Of course, all of those are great goals — it’s just important not to forget about other obligations in your life, like taking care of your family and helping in your community.

Learn a new skill Is there a new hobby or skill set you’ve wanted to acquire? There’s no better time than the new year to make it happen. If it’s a new language or trade you want to learn, contact your local community college and inquire about upcoming classes.

Volunteer Finding opportunities to volunteer can seem overwhelming, but in every community there are groups helping people every day. If you’re not already involved in a Gleaner arbor, this is a great time to join one in your area and start pitching in to make a difference in your community. If there isn’t an arbor in your area, the Fraternal Department can help you start one.

Take care of yourself This is the category where a lot of resolutions live and, all too often, fail. Try taking a different approach if this is your goal by focusing on smaller tasks that will eventually help you accomplish the big goal. If you want to get in better shape, try www.gleanerlife.org

working out for a small amount of time during January (maybe 20 minutes a day) and then increase it slowly over the next few months until you hit your stride. That small step can have a ripple effect. Once you get going, don’t be surprised if you find yourself consuming more water and naturally taking on other healthy habits.

Take care of your family You probably already do this fairly well, but have you considered how you’ll take care of your loved ones if the unthinkable happens? Since tomorrow is never promised, make 2016 the year you fully assess your will, estate plans, finances and life insurance policies to ensure your family won’t have to worry. This way, you won’t lose sleep wondering how your family will pay the mortgage (and maintain their lifestyle if you were to suddenly pass away). If you already have an insurance policy in place, now is a great time to check your beneficiaries and make any necessary changes.

Check an item off your bucket list All too often, we let our busy schedules dictate how we carry out (or don’t carry out) some of our greatest desires. This year, try something you’ve always wanted to do but haven’t for one reason or another. Maybe your bucket list includes rock climbing or trying Zumba. Contact your local YMCA to get started, or ask your family and friends if they know anyone with a shared interest. By asking around, you might get a recommendation from a trusted source, and you might receive some bonus encouragement from your loved ones to finally take that leap. For more information about Gleaner arbors, contact fraternal@gleanerlife.‌org. To learn more about Gleaner’s life insurance and annuity products, contact your Gleaner agent, listed on the back cover, or the Agency Department at agency@gleanerlife.org or call 800.992.1894.

Forum Magazine \ Winter 2016 \

Gleaner Day™ 2015 surpasses previous years' success For the third consecutive year, Gleaner Day™ was a success thanks to the collaboration between Gleaner

Several arbors pitched in to make Gleaner Day™ 2015 a success by hosting food drives in their own communities. Adrian Arbor (MI) members collected food to benefit Gleaner Day and St. Mary's Food Pantry in Adrian.

Life Insurance Society, Gleaners Community Food Bank of Southeastern Michigan and The Henry Ford. In America, nearly 50 million people face food insecurity. That’s why Gleaner Life Insurance Society sponsored Gleaner

Meals provided in 2015:

Day™ at The Henry Ford on Oct. 3 to benefit Gleaners Community Food Bank. By purchasing an admission ticket

9,649

to Greenfield Village and donating five canned goods or making a $5 cash donation, participants received a second admission ticket for free. The Gleaner Day™ collection yielded 532 pounds of food and $913.88 in donations, but those were far from the final tallies from this annual event. Our generous arbors joined in on the cause, collecting 4,509 pounds of food. In all, the total number of meals

$913.88 in donations, with a dollar-for-dollar match from Gleaner Life, totaling

meals

$1,827.76 5,041

pounds

of donated food

provided in 2015 was 9,649 compared with 3,823 in 2014!

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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.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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: __________________________________

City/State: ________________________________

Zip: ______________________________________

Phone: ____________________________________

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.

(Total Amount Enclosed)

Gleaner launches

SINGLE-PREMIUM WHOLE LIFE with Living Benefit Riders Build a lifetime of financial security It’s never too early or too late to secure your loved ones. No matter what phase of life you’re in, you’ll want to focus on spending time with your family or fulfilling your retirement dreams, not worrying about your loved ones’ financial security. Single-premium whole life insurance provides permanent life insurance coverage with the ease and simplicity of a one-time premium payment. In October, Gleaner launched three new single-premium whole life products, Endurance Life, RMD Life and Legacy Life to help members secure their loved ones, build an inheritance or leave a gift to a favorite charity.

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Enjoy the benefits of financial security with Endurance Life Built for all life stages, Endurance Life combines all of the benefits of whole life insurance with the simplicity of a onetime, single premium payment. Not only can you begin building financial security and cash value for yourself, you can also do so for a child or a grandchild, watching as your single premium builds tax-deferred cash value over the course of a lifetime.

Plan for those close to your heart with RMD Life and Legacy Life You’ve spent a lifetime working diligently to save for retirement, but do you have a plan for how you will turn those savings into financial security? What will you do when you begin taking required

minimum distributions (RMDs) from your tax-qualified accounts at age 70½? How will you use funds from your CDs and annuities when they reach maturity? RMD Life and Legacy Life feature the same benefits as Endurance Life, but with options to purchase additional coverage later in life, building a gift you can one day pass on to a beneficiary of your choosing. Both products feature a guaranteed insurability option, which allows you to purchase additional singlepremium whole life certificates without a medical exam. Each certificate can go to the same or different beneficiaries, meaning you can build an inheritance for your children, pass something on to your grandchildren or leave a financial gift to a charity close to your heart. •

With RMD Life, you can use your required minimum distributions to www.gleanerlife.org

Making the most of your RMDs Here is an example of how you can use RMD Life to purchase additional coverage between ages 70 and 80 without eliminating your other options. You don’t have to purchase a new certificate each year, but you must purchase one certificate at least every 36 months or you will lose the ability to purchase more life insurance.

Year One

RMD

from retirement funds*

RMD Life - providing additional security for your loved ones

Year Three

Year Two

RMD

from retirement funds*

Pay for an unexpected emergency

Living expenses

Reinvest or save

RMD Life - providing additional security for your loved ones

With each additional certificate purchased using the RMD guaranteed insurability option, no medical exam is required, even if your health has changed. * A required minimum distribution (RMD) is the amount an individual must withdraw annually from an IRA or other qualified account after reaching 70-1/2. Gleaner will not require verification of the source or amount of your RMD.

purchase additional certificates from ages 70 to 80 to transfer funds, tax-free, to your beneficiaries. An RMD is the amount that you must begin withdrawing from your IRA or other qualified account after you reach age 70½. While this product is designed for RMDs, you can also use other funds to purchase additional certificates. •

With Legacy Life, you can build an inheritance for loved ones or a favorite charity using funds from existing accounts (like CDs, annuities or traditional savings) from ages 50 to 65.

With both RMD Life and Legacy Life, you don’t have to purchase additional coverage every year. However, once you invest in an additional singlepremium whole life certificate, you must www.gleanerlife.org

buy coverage at least once every three years to continue using the product’s guaranteed insurability option.

Living Benefit Riders provide help when you need it most When you purchase one of Gleaner’s new single-premium whole life products, you’re not just protecting your loved ones — you’re also preserving your financial future in case of a major health crisis. Gleaner Life’s Living Benefit Riders guarantee that a portion of your death benefit is available if you should need it. These riders provide a payout of a portion of the certificate’s death benefit when the insured faces a chronic, critical or terminal illness. It’s our way of being there for you when you need us most. Best of all, Living Benefit Riders are included on all single-premium whole life products at no additional premium.1

Want to learn more about single-premium whole life? To learn more about Endurance Life, RMD Life or Legacy Life, contact your Gleaner agent, listed on the back cover, or the Agency Department at agency@gleanerlife.org or call 800.992.1894.

Riders available based on underwriting and the age of the insured. Combined maximum rider amounts apply across all life insurance products. Ask your agent for more information. 1

This single-premium whole life plan is a Modified Endowment Contract (MEC), and as such, gains in the contract are taxable as income when distributions, including loans are made. For more detail on the tax implications of a MEC, you should consult with a legal or tax advisor.

Forum Magazine \ Winter 2016 \

Join us in March! Friday, March 4, 2016

2016 Florida Snowbird events

Spring Training | Lakeland, Florida

Spring Training Baseball

Monday, March 7, 2016

Detroit Tigers vs. New York Yankees

Snowbird Picnic | Sarasota, Florida Gleaner members are invited to our Spring Training Baseball event at Joker Marchant Stadium in Lakeland, Florida. Members and guests will watch the Detroit Tigers take on the New York Yankees on Friday, March 4, 2016, at 1:05 p.m. Tickets are available for a discounted rate of just $20, which includes a pregame lunch and a reserved ticket to the game. To reserve tickets for the Snowbird Spring Training Baseball event, members can simply contact the Fraternal Department at fraternal@gleanerlife.org or 800.992.1894. A registration form is also located on our website at www.gleanerlife.org.

Snowbird Picnic* The annual Snowbird Picnic takes place Monday, March 7, 2016, at Columbus Hall, 4880 Fruitville Road, Sarasota, Florida. Our picnics combine food, fun and fellowship for Gleaner members and guests of all ages. At this potluck event, Gleaner provides the main dish and guests are asked to bring their own table service and a generous dish to share. The picnic begins at 1:00 p.m. Benny’s Auction Benny’s 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 item’s box, and the item goes to the individual with the winning ticket. *Reservations are not required for this event.

Did you find the wheat stalk? In this issue of Forum Magazine, the wheat stalk was hidden on page 12 on the porch lantern.

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www.gleanerlife.org

Online scholarship application now open! The online application process is now open to apply for 2016 Gleaner scholarships! Since 1980, the Gleaner Life Insurance Society Scholarship Foundation has awarded 22,414 scholarships totaling more than $2.4 million. To view eligibility requirements or to apply online, visit www.gleanerlife.org/scholarships.

Scholarship awards increased! Beginning with the 2016 scholarship year, Gleaner will now award up to 50 scholarships in the amount of $3,000 to benefit members. Increased scholarship amounts are just one of many benefits of belonging to Gleaner Life Insurance Society.

Not a benefit member? It’s easy and affordable to become one! A benefit member is anyone who is insured by a Gleaner life insurance certificate or who owns a Gleaner annuity. While members’ immediate families are eligible to receive a one-time $1,500 scholarship, only benefit members are eligible for a one-time $3,000 award. Visit www.gleanerlife.org/scholarships to learn how you can become a benefit member with Gleaner’s Lifetime Membership or Just For Kids® life insurance plan.

Online application closes Feb. 1! Apply online at

www.gleanerlife.org/scholarships

Recipe file Be the life of the Super Bowl party — or any wintertime gathering — with some of our favorite appetizer recipes.

Spinach Dip

1 cup mayonnaise 16 ounces sour cream 1 package Knorr vegetable soup mix 1 small package frozen chopped spinach, drained well ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese Touch of garlic Assorted vegetables for dipping

Do you have a favorite recipe you’d like to share? We’d love to feature your recipe!

Mix first six ingredients together and dip the vegetables.

Send a copy to marketing@gleanerlife.org or mail to:

Ann Wilda, Foss Arbor Home Grown Recipes, vol. 3, page 23

Gleaner Life Insurance Society, Attn: Marketing Department, 5200 West U.S. Hwy. 223, P.O. Box 1894, Adrian, MI 49221

Meatballs in Onion Sauce 1 pound ground beef ¾ cup rolled oats 1 egg ½ cup milk 1 teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon pepper ¼ teaspoon thyme ¼ teaspoon marjoram

Flour for rolling 1 envelope dry onion soup mix 2 cups hot water

Combine all ingredients except flour, onion soup mix and water. Shape beef mixture into 25 meatballs. Roll lightly in flour and brown in a skillet. Combine onion soup mix and hot water; pour over browned meat. Cover and cook over low heat for about 25 minutes. Thicken mixture with additional flour and water to make gravy. Stir until boiling. Makes 5 to 6 servings. Lucille Bachler Home Grown Recipes, vol. 3, page 165

Stuffed Mushrooms

1 pound fresh medium mushrooms (about 24 cleaned) 4 slices bacon, chopped ¼ cup onion, finely chopped 1 cup soft bread crumbs ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese ¼ teaspoon pepper Remove mushroom stems and finely chop to make 1 cup; reserve. In medium glass bowl, microwave bacon and onion for 3 to 3-½ minutes on high until bacon is crisp, stirring once; drain. Stir in reserved chopped mushroom stems, bread crumbs, cheese and pepper. Stuff mushroom caps with bread crumb mixture and place on glass platter. Arrange 12 in a circular pattern. Microwave, covered, for 6 to 7 minutes on high, turning dish once. Let stand uncovered for two minutes before serving. Repeat procedure. Variation: For spinach-stuffed mushrooms, partially thaw a 12-ounce package of frozen spinach soufflé. Cut into squares and place in mushroom caps. Heat as directed above. Home Grown Recipes, vol. 3, page 24

\ Winter 2016 \ Forum Magazine

www.gleanerlife.org

Korinne’s Korner I imagine many of you have your refrigerator door covered with miscellaneous items, as do we — pictures of family, artwork, phone numbers of service professionals, etc. As the years pass by, these items change according to our current experiences, like elementary school projects, children’s sporting events and favorite recipes. For Kevin and me, at this stage of our lives, most of our refrigerator space is taken up with memorable sayings, including one of my favorites: “Let us be grateful to the people who make us happy; they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom.” — Marcel Proust Our days become routine — work, exercise, children, responsibilities — and time flies by us all at an alarming pace. Not long ago, I happened to stop while opening the door to the refrigerator to read this quote, and it sent my mind and thoughts on a journey. Why don’t we make a point daily to remind ourselves who and what makes us happy and nourishes our soul? Who and what puts a smile on our faces? Each morning I try to take a minute and fill my heart with gratitude for all my many blessings: my husband, our children, beautiful grandchildren, the rest of our family and friends, our lake home, loving pets, a reliable car to get around in — you get my drift. Such a positive beginning to every sunrise, regardless of what the rest of the day holds for us, allows our minds to start the day on an upbeat note. We are also very grateful to Gleaner for the opportunity to serve the Society and its members. We are inspired by the wonderful works of our arbors, agents, members and employees. What a pleasure it was to again have the opportunity to meet and greet so many of you at the 57th Biennial Convention in October. It was so gratifying to get face-to-face feedback from you on this column and to hear how much you enjoy the recipes. So, having found a new favorite cookie recipe this fall, by way of Kevin seeing a local newspaper article, here is my featured recipe for the start of 2016! May abundant blessings come to each of you daily as we begin a new year! Fraternally yours,

Korinne Marti Wife of Gleaner President and CEO Kevin Marti

1 cup butter 1 cup each of brown and granulated sugar 2 eggs 1 teaspoon maple syrup or flavoring 1 teaspoon salt

Maple Walnut Cookies add more self-rising flour in ½ cup increments until smooth. Stir in walnuts. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto cookie sheet. Bake for 10-13 minutes until golden. Cool. Optional icing: 4 tablespoons butter 2 cups powdered sugar 1 teaspoon maple syrup or flavoring

1 cup each of whole wheat and self-rising white flour

3-4 tablespoons milk

2 cups chopped walnuts

Combine all ingredients, stirring until smooth. Frost cookies when they are cool.

Preheat the oven to 350 F. Combine butter, sugars, eggs, maple syrup or flavoring and salt; beat until just combined. Add flours, 1 cup at a time. If dough is sticky,

P.S.: This makes a lot of very sweet icing. I usually cut the amounts in half and frost only half of the cookies. Enjoy!

www.gleanerlife.org

Forum Magazine \ Winter 2016 \

ARBORS

in action

Gleaner arbors (service clubs) accounted for 72,792 acts and hours of volunteer service in communities throughout six states last year. Their community volunteer efforts are one of Gleaner’s longstanding traditions on which our mission was founded more than 120 years ago. Our arbors help make our communities stronger by donating their time and contributing monetary and other necessary items to support well-deserving causes. Arbors receive funding from Gleaner based on their levels of activity from the previous year. Without that financial backing, arbors would likely spend more time raising money and less time supporting the good causes within their communities. If you aren’t part of an arbor yet, now is the perfect time to join one near you. Contact Gleaner’s Fraternal Department by emailing fraternal@gleanerlife.org or calling 800.992.1894.

Adrian Arbor and Maple City Arbor (MI) members helped clean the Salvation Army homeless shelter as part of United Way’s Day of Action.

Bay Area Arbor (FL) teamed with local churches and teens to weed flower beds and perform other clean-up duties at Elmira’s Wildlife Sanctuary.

Chester Arbor (OH) members visited the Elm Valley Fire Department where Chris Cooper from the Red Cross shared information about the smoke alarm program.

\ Winter 2016 \ Forum Magazine

www.gleanerlife.org

South Fairfield Arbor (MI/OH) hosted Ag Fest where Linda Bollinger presented information on agriculture and the source of many of our foods to Fulton County third graders.

Stateline Arbor (MI) members gathered food donations to benefit the Nightingales Harvest.

USA Arbor (MI) hosted a jump rope making booth at the Sebewaing Country Market and Music Festival. Children made jump ropes and then tested them out.

Black Swamp Arbor (OH) members performed with a gospel band at Country Inn Assisted Living.

Vulcaneer Arbor (MI) hosted an event to help Central Elementary School students learn the meaning of the American flag. Steve Walker talked to the students and instructed them on the proper way to fold a flag. www.gleanerlife.org

Homer Township Oak Arbor (IL) members hosted a senior harvest to provide the community with fresh fruit.

Forum Magazine \ Winter 2016 \

Benny’s page Benny recently hit the road and traveled to Pennsylvania where he stopped by Gettysburg with his traveling pal, Gleaner Life Insurance Society Board Chair Suann Hammersmith before picking up some sweet treats in Hershey, Pennsylvania at the Hershey Chocolate Factory. He even hitched a ride on Hershey’s Kissmobile.

Do you have a mini Benny? Take him on your next trip and send a photo along with details of where it was taken 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.

Winter word scramble oswn

_ _ _ _

msanwon

_ _ _ _ _ _ _

cei

_ _ _

oth tcochleoa

_ _ _

writen

_ _ _ _ _ _

azzlbidr

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

sedl

_ _ _ _

cilice

_ _ _ _ _ _

tetmnis

_ _ _ _ _ _ _

giolo

_ _ _ _ _

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

Answers: 1. Snow, 2. Ice, 3. Winter, 4. Sled, 5. Mittens, 6. Snowman, 7.Hot chocolate, 8. Blizzard, 9. Icicle, 10. Igloo

\ Winter 2016 \ Forum Magazine

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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

A new year is a time of change. Itâ€™s a time for creating new habits, setting goals and planning ahead. But every plan has contingencies for when the unexpected happens. Life insurance can provide a safety net for families during the most difficult and unexpected times of change. This year, make a resolution to provide your family with life insurance coverage. Make an appointment with your Gleaner agent (listed above) to address your life insurance needs, or visit www.gleanerlife.org for more information.

We wish you a year full of health, happiness and prosperity in 2016. Happy New Year from Gleaner Life!