District Happenings: District 45 Altoona, Pennsylvania
Robin Kessler • November 10, 2020
The district officers would like to wish everyone a blessed Thanksgiving, a very, merry Christmas and a happy New Year. We hope everyone takes a moment to reflect on everything they have to be thankful for in this time of uncertainty and to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas.
Our sympathy is extended to the family and friends of Ronald Schlecht and Frances (Frankie) Kessler. Frankie was our former treasurer and district sales representative.
We continue our GBU Cares project as we collect personal hygiene items to donate to the local shelters and the Shriners Hospital for Children. To have a donation picked up, contact Treasurer Betty Richardson (814-943-6655) or me. Motel-size or full-size bottles of shampoo, conditioner, soap, toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant, etc. are greatly appreciated.
The Fall Pie Sale to benefit the St. Vincent De Paul Assumption Chapel Food Pantry orders were due to me by November 9. Items come in on Saturday, November 21. We will also be collecting nonperishable food items for the Food Pantry; to have a donation picked up, contact Robin and John Kessler at the number at the end of the article.
As of the writing of this article, many of our fall events are still on hold as we wait to see how the COVID-19 guidelines for social gatherings are changed. This includes the Toys for Tots Benefit Auction and the Family Christmas Party at the Unter Uns, as well as the Gift Wrapping at the Logan Valley Mall to benefit the Salvation Army. Contact me for updates.
I would like to welcome into our GBU family the new members that have recently joined GBU and District 45.
District representatives are waiting to hear from you: John and Robin Kessler (814-943-4481), Mary Kessler-Adams (814-942-5362), Kay Balestino (814-687-3296), Mark Bomeisl (724-681-5244), Mary J. Brant (724-989-1773), or agents Eric, Brian or Michael Irwin (814-941-4411).
- Robin Kessler, Fraternal Secretary
814- 943-4481 or Rob1jon@atlanticbb.net
814- 943-4481 or Rob1jon@atlanticbb.net
Practical Tips to Organize For Your Well-Being
Rest as a Form of Productivity
Each year, we set aside time to deep clean and organize our homes. But when was the last time you set aside time to organize your finances? We sat down with GBU Life Home Office agents Leah Teahl and Dominic Nicciai to learn about the benefits of an annual financial review and how you can get started.
Every child can name a teacher who made a difference: the one who stayed late to help, offered encouragement at just the right moment or made learning feel exciting. Recognizing a teacher’s dedication doesn’t require grand gestures, but it does call for intention. Thoughtful appreciation gifts, especially during Teacher Appreciation Week or year-end celebrations, offer a tangible way to express heartfelt gratitude.
Board Election GBU Financial Life’s national bylaws allow adult insured members (as defined in Article VI, Section 1 of the bylaws) the right to vote for the organization’s Board of Directors. Ballots will be mailed at the beginning of August 2026 to all eligible members. Eligible members may vote by paper ballot via mail or electronic ballot online once they receive their ballot. Cumulative voting or voting by proxy is not permitted.
We hope the holiday brought you moments of rest and joy for the year ahead, giving you time to recharge and look forward with renewed purpose.
Winter is a magical time filled with holidays and the warmth of togetherness. It’s the perfect season to start traditions that your kids will look forward to every year. Here are some creative ideas to start your family’s unique winter traditions!
To help you shine at your next workplace white elephant party, here’s a list of affordable and useful gift ideas.
Here are 9 unique and meaningful ways to express your gratitude.
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