Vol. 116, No. 03 • Established 1897 • March 15, 2013

Featured Inside:

New Lodge No. 492, Coldwater, MI

WFLA Home Office 1900 1 st Ave. NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402 Toll-free 1-877-wflains (935-2467) (319) 363-2653 Fax: (319) 363-8806

On Saturday, February 23, 2013, the Board of Directors met to choose the person that the Board plans to nominate for President of Western Fraternal Life Association at the next convention. I am proud to announce that Craig Van Dyke was unanimously chosen to serve as acting President beginning July 1, 2013.

Mon. - Thurs., 7:45 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. (CST) Friday , 7:45 a.m. - 1:15 p.m. (CST)

Management Team

Howard J. Wolfe, President e-mail: [email protected] Craig Van Dyke Senior Vice President and Treasurer e-mail: [email protected]

Craig started his career at wfla in 2000 as the Treasurer of the Association. Since 2008, he has held the position of

Donald Nieland Vice President of Information Technology and Secretary e-mail: [email protected]

maintained its financial stability and continued strength during these challenging economic times under Craig’s guidance and direction.

Ann Day Freeman, Vice President and Chief Underwriter e-mail: [email protected]

Your Board of Directors took the selection process very the Board had to select an individual to nominate for

Jack Minder, Controller e-mail: [email protected] Daniel Anderegg, Manager of Sales and Marketing e-mail: [email protected]

and many qualified candidates were considered and interviewed.

Board of Directors

Please join me, and the other Directors, in congratulating Craig on his new position. Craig will be a great leader for our Association, and we look forward to this opportunity for wfla’s future.

Howard J. Wolfe 120 N 19 th Ave., Hiawatha, IA 52233 District 1, Terry Hynek 2375 County Rd. Q, Wilber, NE 68465 (402) 821-3167 • [email protected] District 2, Brenda Osterman 18803 Ibsen Rd, Sparta, WI 54656 (608) 487-2655 • [email protected] District 3, Donald R. Krall 2324 25th St. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404 (319) 365-8873 • [email protected]

Fraternally yours, Duane Jirik Chairman of the Board of Directors

District 4, Duane J. Jirik Chairman of the Board 1006 3rd St. NE, New Prague, MN 56071 (952) 758-4885 • [email protected]

Features

District 5, Mary Bradley 200 W. Cass St., St. Johns, MI 48879

....... 2 New Charter Lodge ............................... 3 Annual Report from Don Nieland ...........4 Fraternalist of the Year Applications .......4 Lodge Awards ........................................ 5 First NE Yell! Group .........................................6 Kelsey's Korner .................................................6 Four Years Flew By...................................7 Youth Art Contest ....................................8 Members in the News ...................................9 Youth In The News ..........................................9 Graduate Drawing ........................................11 Let Reading Help Your Child Thrive...... 29

District 6, Bonita Fillmore 10803 Lancaster Ave, Klamath Falls, OR 97601 District 7, Brad Evans 3345 East Hwy 34, Ennis, TX 75119 (972) 816-9611 • [email protected]

FraternalHerald Official Organization of Western Fraternal Life Association.

2

Published monthly by the Home Office of Western Fraternal Life Association: No commercial advertis ing accepted. Periodical Postage Paid at Cedar Rapids, IA and additional Mailing Office. Post-Master: Send change of address to: Western Fraternal Life Association, 1900 1 st Avenue NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402. Printed by Automatic Printing Co. in Omaha, NE (ISSN 0006-9256). Lodge Director Kathryn Chadima Fraternal Supervisor Linda Grove Publication Coordinators Darcy Kelley • Kristi Kidd

Departments

-

Referral Update..................................... 3 Spotlight ................................................ 9 Producers Page ................................... 10 Financial Planning ............................... 11 Calendar ......................................... 12-13 Kitchen Talk ......................................... 14 Fraternal Focus ..............................15-29 In Memoriam .................................29-31 January Claims .................................... 31

Check out these great wfla sponsored organizations National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library: find out upcoming

events and special exhibits:

www.ncsml.org

WOES FM :

The Polka Palace, a noncommercial, educational radio station broadcast from Ovid-Elsie High School, Elsie, MI: www.ovidelsie.org

Czech-American TV

PO Box 100001, Cape Coral, FL 33910 (708) 813-0028 www.catvusa.com

Czech Radio Programs Cleveland, OH

Joe Kocab, WHK Radio 1220 AM Sundays from 3:03 to 5 p.m. Simulcast: www.whkwradio.com

(Click "Listen")

Access your certificate information through our Member Access at: www.wflains.org March 2013

Members and guests of Southwestern MI Lodge 492 celebrate the new lodge charter on February 10 at the Hampton Inn in Coldwater, MI.

Michigan celebrates Charter for Southwestern MI Lodge 492 About 35 members and guests converged on the Hampton Inn in Coldwater, MI on February 13, 2013 to celebrate the charter for Southwestern Michigan Lodge 492. Director Mary Bradley welcomed and congratulated members of the new lodge, and thanked honored guests for attending. Guests included Lodge No. 492 officers being inducted by Director Mary Bradley. President Howard J. Wolfe and his wife Judy, Lodge Director Kitty Chadima, MI Agency Manager Dan Zeiger and his wife Cheryl, and Bob and Betty Shaw of Lodge 247 Flint. Officers of the new lodge include President Amber Irvin, Secretary Kara Abbott-Pengelly, and Treasurer Susan Hufnagle. President Wolfe spoke on the importance of helping others and the impact members can have on the community. President Wolfe and Mary Bradley presented the lodge charter to the officers along with funds to assist in the start-up of the lodge. WFLA Agent Jack Brauker helped establish this lodge by bringing in 138 members during the past year. He spoke of the importance of referrals as related to the growth of the lodge. He then asked members in attendance to submit names of individuals who may have an interest in becoming a member. Jack’s work as an agent and Amber Irvin’s work as a member were instrumental in the establishment of the new lodge. Lodge President Amber Irvin shared some of her ideas for the new lodge, but is eager to get everyone’s input. Ideas include working with shelters, schools, fairs, and Relay for Life, among other opportunities to serve the community. She expressed the importance and need for volunteering and donations for schools, groups, and individuals in the community. She hopes to celebrate member achievements and for members to have fun together, starting with the a lodge picnic in August. To begin with its community service, the lodge will hold a “March is Reading Month” event in coordination with the local libraries in Homer (3:30 p.m.) and Litchfield (6 p.m.) on March 21. Members will meet at 6 p.m. on the first Friday of the month at Brauker Insurance, 114 S. Chicago St. Litchfield, MI. The next meeting is April 5. If you live in southwestern Michigan, you are welcome to attend and bring your suggestions. Call President Amber Irvin for more information about the lodge at 517-358-6880.

2013 Lodge Referral Program Congratulations to the members who submitted referrals between January 16 - February 15, 2013. Referrer Name ST Lodge Referral Referrer Name ST Lodge Referral

LaVerne Benda James Buresh Connie Cerny-Nash Michael Colsch Faye Fee Susan Hufnagle Jacquelyn Little Jeanette Marmolejo-Winslow March 2013

OK KS MI IA MI MI MI OK

67 121 225 85 492 492 492 109

2 1 1 1 3 2 2 1

Daniel Novak Lavern Potuzak Emanuel Sedlacek Evelyn Svenson Tammy Vanderpool Richard Winslow Walter Worden Randy Zeithamer Carole Zellinger

WI KS NE MN MI OK MI MN WI

332 246 14 44 492 109 492 192 236

1 1 1 2 3 2 1 1 1

3

Annual Report from Donald Nieland Vice President of Information Technology and Secretary It is an honor and a pleasure to report to you on behalf of the Administration Department. The Association made a commitment late in 2011 to get young members involved and 2012 showed signs and progress towards that goal. The Board of Directors supported the concept of creating Young Engaged Lodge Leaders (YELL!) groups. Six lodges now have official YELL! groups in place, and a significant number of other lodges are working to start their own groups. The Board also created the new Outstanding Leadership Award, which includes several youthbased requirements. Lodges are excited about this new award level and are working to meet those

requirements. The Association continues to operate in 18 states with 120 lodges and 39,119 members. I would also like to congratulate the 223 75-year and 408 50-year members who will be receiving these honors in 2013. Thank you for your continued support and dedication to the Association. I would also like to thank all those who referred 357 potential new members in 2012 through the Lodge Referral Program. Referrals from current members are our best source for new members. From these referrals, 189 sales have already been made with more possible. More than half of these referrals resulted in sales and new members, and any agent will tell you no other leads have those results. On behalf of the entire staff, I would like to applaud all of the lodges that participated in the Lodge Awards Program in 2012. A total of 104 lodges received awards with 85 achieving Level I status, 6 at Level II and 13 at Level III. Many lodges are performing new activities, which provide a more noticeable presence in their communities. These types of activities are vital to promoting wfla and lodges in the communities where you live. Congratulations on your successes - we are all proud of your accomplishments! We are working with the lodges having difficulties meeting the awards requirements in an effort to rebuild those lodges. The wfla Facebook account now has 152 fans and activity on the site has increased significantly. The Association also has blog and twitter accounts which regularly promote wfla, our mission, and special events. Join us at these accounts to keep up with the latest news and events. You have a dedicated, hard-working staff in the Home Office and I would like to thank them for their efforts over the past year. Seven staff members celebrated special anniversaries in 2012: Controller Jack Minder - 30 years, Fraternal Supervisor Linda Grove - 20 years, Member Service Representative Verna Kuehl – 15 years, Receptionist Wanda Bragg – 15 years, New Business Specialist Melissa Clapp - 10 years, Conservation Analyst/Annuity Product Manager Julie Cole – 10 years, and Field Consultant Rudy Pino – 5 years. I would like to thank retiring President Wolfe for his 45 years of dedication and commitment to wfla. Jim has always put the Association’s interest and members first. Here’s to a long and healthy retirement! Fraternally, Donald M. Nieland Vice President, Information Technology and Secretary

2013 Fraternalist of the Year Applications Due May 1, 2013 Our Fraternalist of the Year Award is an honor presented by the Association to recognize a deserving individual. This person, through example and accomplishment, provided outstanding volunteer service to his or her lodge, society, and community during the past year. We have many members who do a great deal for our lodges and their communities. Please recognize these individuals by submitting their names and applications. The Fraternalist of the Year guidelines and application were mailed to all lodge secretaries in the February Secretaries Newsletter and may also be found on our website: www.wflains.org, under lodge forms. The application and photo of the member are due at the Home Office May 1. 4

March 2013

Lodge Award Winners The list below indicates the lodges who have received a lodge award for activities performed in 2012. On behalf of the Board of Directors, the Management Team, Agents, and the Home Office staff, I would like to congratulate all the lodges that participated in the lodge award program: 85 lodges received the Level I Award, 6 lodges received the Level II Award, and 13 lodges received the Level III Award. Fraternally yours, Donald Nieland, Vice President of Information Technology and Secretary

LEVEL I AWARD

California

377 Golden West, Los Angeles, CA

Colorado

431 Colorado, Denver, CO

Illinois

330 Pilgrim, Brookfield, IL

Iowa

7 Cedar, Cedar Rapids, IA 13 Karel IV, Cedar Rapids, IA 85 Iowa, Protivin, IA 160 Klas, Center Point, IA 262 Cedar Rapids, Cedar Rapids, IA 400 Four Hundred, Swisher, IA 423 Hawkeye, Cedar Rapids, IA 500 Five Hundred, Cedar Rapids, IA

Kansas

19 Novy Tabor, Munden, KS 95 Hvezdnaty Prapor, Timken, KS 121 Trocnov, Caldwell, KS 128 Moravan, Rossville, KS 153 Cesti Vlastenci, Jennings, KS 203 Kansasky Vysehrad, Glasco, KS 246 Western View, Alton, KS

Louisiana

9 Plzen, Morse Bluff, NE 14 Dennice, Ord, NE 28 Zapadni Svornost, Clarkson, NE 29 Vladislav I, Prague, NE 45 Hvezda Svobody, Omaha, NE 53 Vysehrad, Niobrara, NE 54 Praha-Libuse, Wilber, NE 56 Lipany, Lynch, NE 68 Cecho-Moravan, Brainard, NE 74 Tabor, Dorchester, NE 76 Milligan, Milligan, NE 84 Premysl Otakar II, Table Rock, NE 112 Slavin, Comstock, NE 152 Cech, Farwell, NE 296 Zest, Omaha, NE 342 Karlin Junior, Spencer, NE 389 Saline Center, Western, NE 426 Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 437 Loup Valley, Ord, NE

North Dakota

106 Kosobud, Lankin, ND 147 Cesky Zakopnik, Mandan, ND

Oklahoma

46 Oklahoma, Prague, OK 109 Laska, Oklahoma City, OK

Oregan

222 Krasna Budoucnost, Malin, OR

260 Kolin, Kolin, LA

South Dakota

225 Michigan, Bannister, MI 242 Owosso, Owosso, MI 247 Nova Cechie, Flint, MI

Texas

Lower Michigan

Minnesota

11 Hopkins, Hopkins, MN 34 Lumir, Hutchinson, MN 38 Zare Svobody, Austin, MN 44 Zare Zapadu, Hayward, MN 69 Orel, St. Paul, MN 107 Canby, Canby, MN 127 Owatonna, Owatonna, MN 155 Montgomery, Montgomery, MN 168 Zahrada Minnesoty, Mahnomen, MN 192 Ledec, Alexandria, MN 219 Boleslav Jablonsky, Strathcona, MN 346 Willow River, Willow River, MN 361 Meadowlands Jr., Meadowlands, MN

Nebraska

5 Bila Hora, Verdigre, NE 8 Sladkovsky, Verdigre, NE March 2013

71 Star of South Dakota, Utica, SD 237 Winner, Winner, SD 253 Cechu Vitezstvi, Hamill, SD 402 Texasska Libuse, Ennis, TX 446 North Texas, Dorchester, TX

Washington

181 Seattle, Seattle, WA

Wisconsin/Upper Michigan

20 Zapadni Jednota, Whitelaw, WI 32 Samo, Hillsboro, WI 73 Perun, Menominee, MI 108 Verna Laska, Denmark, WI 126 Ashland, Ashland, WI 141 Bratri Novych Hradu, Cadott, WI 142 Verni Bratri, Two Rivers, WI 144 RIP, Mosinee, WI 193 Adams, Adams, WI 196 Ratolest Wisconsin, Black Riv. Fls, WI

221 Pokrocilost, Menchalville, WI 236 Nadeje Slovanu, Phillips, WI 332 Northern Star, Weyerhaeuser, WI 355 Severni Cechoslovak, Ladysmith, WI 360 Manitowoc Jr., Manitowoc, WI 365 Kewaunee, Kewaunee, WI 391 Pilsen, Luxemburg, WI 408 City Point, City Point, WI

LEVEL II AWARD

Iowa

427 Oxford, Oxford, IA

Nebraska

3 Nebraska, Crete, NE 101 Jan Kollar, Du Bois, NE

Oklahoma

67 Jan Zizka, Yukon, OK

South Dakota

162 Vesmir, Gregory, SD

Wisconsin/Upper Michigan

100 Hvezda Wisconsinu, Haugen, WI

LEVEL III AWARD

Iowa

22 Budoucnost, Oxford Jct, IA 39 Fort Dodge, Fort Dodge, IA 104 Cesti Bratri, Clutier, IA 243 Velehrad, Mason City, IA

Minnesota

2 Cechoslovan, New Prague, MN 10 Cesky Lev, Minneapolis, MN

North Dakota

188 Hodonin, Minot, ND

Oklahoma

248 Vitezslav, Willow, OK 475 Tulsa, Tulsa, OK

South Dakota

80 Pravda, Tyndall, SD

Texas

401 Dallas, Dallas, TX

Wisconsin/Upper Michigan

48 Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI 357 Racine, Racine, WI

5

First Nebraska YELL! Group



Last March, I told you about a great lodge who really values their young members and has always tried to involve them in their activities and projects. This month, that lodge launched their YELL! group, the first in Nebraska. Read below to learn about their first meeting. – Kelsey Logan, Youth Activities Director Our YELL! group was started on February 3. We had seven children. We elected officers for our group as follows: President Tyler Hosek, Secretary Ella Hosek, Treasurer Zach Hosek, Vice President Valerie Hosek, and Activity Chair Laura Casne. Our activity at this meeting was making flowers and Valentines. We really appreciate Susan Casne, as she is fun and always has nice activities for us. We gave the adult members our flowers and Valentines. The adults told us they will help us, and Velma helped with writing this article. We invite all children to our meetings. We meet before the adult meeting, so if you live close and would like to share in our YELL! group, we would love to have you come to a meeting. We hope we get more children so we can have more fun. – Jenny Hosek, YELL! Correspondent, No. 426

Lodge and YELL! group officers being installed.

Our YELL! group making flowers on February 3 to give to senior members.

Kelsey's Korner

New Youth Project Requirement for Level I Award As many of you saw in the January Fraternal Herald, there have been some changes to the Lodge Awards. The biggest change was the announcement of the Outstanding Leadership Award. However, there is an important but potentially overlooked change to the Youth Projects section. The new requirement is that the Youth Project section for Level I must have at least one active project done with youth. The projects need to have youth participating in the activity, such as a park clean-up, or need to have youth participating in the event, such as a bike giveaway or swim party. No longer will both projects be allowed to be in-kind donations/collections. For example, you may still have two collections or in-kind donations in the Community Activities Section, or one in Community and one in Youth Projects. This is different from how it was previously counted, allowing both in-kind donations and collections to be done in the youth projects section. Activities that would count as a youth project, along with the new Outstanding Leadership Award, is meant to strongly encourage more interaction with younger members and non-members; to inspire our lodge members to think about the future of their lodge. 6

March 2013

Four Years Flew By Molly Kokesh (No. 71, Utica, SD) was the very first recipient of our Four-Year Academic National Scholarship ($1,000 per year for a total of $4,000). As her four years comes to an end, Molly took the time to share what the last few years have been like for her, and what her future holds. 1. How did the 4-year scholarship help you towards your educational goals? I really wanted to attend a private liberal arts college, but I needed to earn scholarships to justify the cost difference between that and a state school. The wfla scholarship helped make it possible for me to pursue the education I wanted. Augustana was a great fit, and I am so grateful to have been able to attend. 2. Will you continue with your education? I have plans to enter graduate school in 2014 or 2015. I’m currently researching programs in law, policy study, and environmental studies. I’ll spend the next year perfecting applications and see where the cards fall. 3. What extracurricular activities were you involved in these past four years? I’ve been in cross country and track all four years, a senator on student council two years, and this year I’m serving as president of the campus environmental club. I’m also a mentor for international students. 4. What was your favorite class and why? My favorite class was advanced composition. We read and wrote every day, and engaged in really life changing conversation. It’s a simple formula for growth—reading, writing, and dialogue— but to be able to sit down with a group of well-intentioned people, engaging in an honest search, is a really rare experience. 5. What is the most valuable lesson this first four years of college has taught you? Everything you read and every person you meet is important. The most valuable lesson I learned in undergrad is to treat every reading assignment and human encounter as significant. 6. Do you have a funny or inspirational story you would like to share with Herald readers? I went to a really small high school in SD where we play 9-man football. On my first day on Augustana’s campus, I was in the training room after cross country practice. I was really excited to be there and anxious to meet new people. An upperclassman football player was getting some ice so I decided to make small talk, asking him how the season was going and so on. The guy tolerated my questions. After a couple minutes, I asked, “So, do you guys play 9-man, or 11-man football?” The NCAA DII player was pretty humored by the clearly freshman question, but replied, “Uh…11-man.” I didn’t ask any more questions. March 2013

7. Were you able to do any volunteering during your four years? I’ve lived in the campus Sustainability House the last two years. We have a garden that we raise each summer and donate the produce to The Banquet in Sioux Falls (The Banquet is a safe place where people can gather, receive nourishment, and experience love in action. Their mission is to equip volunteers to provide food and fellowship to those served through this ministry). We do other projects throughout the year with local grade schools and churches to promote sustainable living. 8. What are your short-term goals and long-term goals? I’m job hunting now in the area. I would like to gain some experience over the next 1-2 years in a government or nonprofit organization before going back to school. Long term, I want to find a career where I can write, speak about, and research the subjects I care most about—justice, equal treatment, and environmental responsibility. 9. What are your current hobbies? Running, reading, writing, baking, and playing with as many dogs as I can find. I also love to sing and play piano whenever I get the chance. From now until school ends in May, I’ll be spending as much time with my roommates as I can. 10. What advice would you give to incoming freshmen? Don’t limit yourself based on what you “don’t know.” It doesn’t matter what you know now. If you design your education well, you can pursue whatever career interests you. WFLA congratulates Molly on her college graduation, and we are proud to have a part in the accomplishments she has made thus far. We wish Molly, and all our scholarship winners, a bright and successful future.

7

Youth Art Month is an annual observance each March to emphasize the value of art education for all children. Art education develops self-esteem, appreciation of the work of others, self-expression, cooperation with others, and critical thinking skills. These skills are vital to the success of our future leaders, our children. This year our theme is What Do You Want To Be When You Grow Up. Draw a picture of yourself at your dream job, or how you see yourself as an adult. Be creative in how you see yourself in the future. Check out our website with last year's winners www.wflains.org under the contest tab on the left.

What Can Be Entered?

Any original drawing of the theme mentioned above; no smaller and no larger than 8½" x 11". All entries must be on plain white paper or poster board suitable for mounting. Do not use tracing or light weight paper.

What Materials Can Be Used?

Colored pencils, crayons, water colors, markers, poster paints, ink, oils, or acrylics. No chalk!

General Rules

The Prizes Are Category 1 : Ages 5-7 First $25 Second $15 Third $10 Category 2 : Ages 8-9 First $30 Second $20 Third $15 Category 3 : Ages 10-12 First $35 Second $25 Third $20 Category 4 : Ages 13-15 First $55 Second $35 Third $25 8

1. Artist must be a member of wfla. 2. Entry must be received by May 31, 2013. 3. Judges reserve the right to accept or reject any or all entries. Their decisions will be final. 4. Contestants may submit two entries. 5. Contestants can win only one prize. 6. Winners will be announced in the August Fraternal Herald. 7. Work will be handled at the Home Office with the utmost care and will be returned.

How Do I Enter?

Entries are due May 31, 2013. Entries need to include a school photo (if possible), along with your name, address, phone number, wfla lodge number, city, and state. Please put your name on the back of your entry and on your photo. Describe what you have drawn on another sheet of paper.

Send all entries and your school photo to:

Art Contest Western Fraternal Life Association 1900 First Avenue NE Cedar Rapids, IA 52402-5372

WFLA reserves the right to reproduce entries. March 2013

MEMBERS IN THE NEWS

Member Celebrates Her 100th Birthday

Five years after the ZCBJ Lodge Hall was built north of Cadott, Bessie Najbrt (Stanek) was born (January 29, 1913) in the Bohemian settlement in that area. For the next 100 years the Bohemian Hall, Lodge 141 and ZCBJ/WFLA would be an integral part of her life! As a young girl, Bessie was involved in the youth gymnastics organization, Sokol, that practiced at the hall and performed at area events. The highlight of Bessie’s Sokol activities came as a ride in a milk truck that brought the local Sokol Troupe to Chicago’s Wrigley Field where they performed at the 1933 World’s Fair. When asked what Sokol meant to her as a young girl, Bessie said, "Everything, we lived it!" She went on to say, "We practiced every week, we went to camp, to competitions, and when we were older, we taught it. It was all we talked about." Bessie was also involved in the Beseda Dance group. She danced the night away, and she taught the dance steps to others. Bessie remembers the fun on the dance floor, she also remembers when the stage area was added to the Bohemian Hall and when the stage curtains were painted. She became involved with acting, and the cast performed plays at many of the lodges in Wisconsin. She married Victor Stanek in 1937, and together they continued as active members of Lodge 141. While Vic served as Lodge President, Bessie served as Lodge Secretary from 1948 until 1999. When the building restoration started, Bessie was the voice of the past. She remembered what the original building looked like, and was able to share that information so the hall could keep its' historic look! A few days after Bessie’s 100th birthday, she was invited to speak with elementary students in Cadott on their 100th day of school for the year. When asked what she did for excitement before the iPod and internet were around she responded, “We made our own fun, and we had the Bohemian Hall.”

SPOTLIGHT Member Ellsworth Cizek and his wife, Marly, of No. 104, Clutier, IA celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary.

YOUTH IN THE NEWS Member Coltin Rezabek of No. 389, Western, NE won the 8 th Annual Great Pl a i n s 8 -B a l l S ho ot out Junior Singles tournament in Lincoln's Peishing Center. This is Coltin's 2nd year playing in the VVS Junior Pool League in Lincoln and his 2nd year winning the 8-ball shootout. He will be attending the VNEA Junior Pool Championships competition in Battle Creek, MI in June. He is attending Wilber-Clatonia Elementary School in the 6th grade. March 2013

Members Jeremy Kohout and sons Conner age 6 and Jonathan age 3 of No. 389, Western, NE were one of the winners of NE Frank's Kraut label contest. Pictured is Jeremy playing his button accordion and Conner and Jonathan playing the drums. Jeremy has many family members in wfla which include his wife, Lindsay, his in-laws, parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles. The entire family has sauerkraut dishes at most family gatherings. The Kohouts will join a few others from NE who will be featured on Frank's sauerkraut cans. Several states were targeted in Frank's "Search for Sweetness" campaign. Look for Kohout Kraut Kids from NE Lodge No. 389 in the kraut section at your favorite grocery store this spring. 9

PRODUCERS PAGE



Region of the Month Greater Iowa Agency

J. David Butler, FICF, LUTCF

WFLA LEADERS FOR THE MONTH OF JANUARY

top CAREER & MOST LIFE PREMIUM

TOP COMMERCIAL

Don Gillett, FIC (NE)

Ryan Fowler, FICF (IA)

REGIONAL MANAGERS IA

J. David Butler, FICF, LUTCF (319) 621-9597

SD

James J. Neuhardt, FICF (605) 554-2020

Tied for most certificates placed

ND/MN Paul D. Vaagene, LUTCF (701) 799-2150 or (888) 898-8863 MI/OH Daniel J. Zeiger, FICF, LUTCF (517) 202-2362 WI

Randy Kolarik, FIC, LUTCF (920) 863-1443

MOST CERTIFICATES PLACED

Brad Gilson, FICF (KS)

MOST CERTIFICATES PLACED & MOST NEW MEMBERS

Dalbert Steele (IL)

Top 5 Career Agents Ryan Fowler, FICF Rudy Kolarik Brad Gilson, FICF Holly Pechota, FIC Mike Brown, FICF

Top 5 Commercial Agents Donald Gillett, FIC Dalbert Steele Jeff Hitt David W. Brown, FIC, CLU, ChFC Ron Pachan, LUTCF 10

MOST ANNUITY PREMIUM

Rudy Kolarik (WI)

March 2013

FINANCIAL PLANNING MATTERS

What Is A Living Trust And When Do I Need One? Some financial planners say that everyone needs a living trust. Other planners will say that you just need a last will and testament (will) to handle your estate. Whether you use a living trust or a will to carry out your final wishes, it is critical that you consult with an attorney who will draft the living trust and/or will. Estate laws and probate proceedings differ from state to state, and you will want to be sure that your living trust or will conforms to the laws of the state of your residence. The purpose for this discussion is NOT to provide you with legal advice or tell you how to create a living trust or will. My purpose is to acquaint you with the options available and encourage you to complete an estate plan. A trust is created when one person transfers property interests to be held for the benefit of herself/himself and others. A trust that is created and effective during a person’s lifetime is a living trust. A trust that is created in a will is known as a testamentary trust and becomes effective at death. Both a living trust and a testamentary trust can accomplish the same thing, it’s just a matter of timing when they go into effect. Here are some reasons to have a living trust: 1. You desire privacy. In most states an inventory of assets and the will become a matter of public record. Assets held in a trust are not subject to probate administration and are not open to the public. 2. You want successor management. All trusts name a successor trustee. If the grantor/trustee becomes disabled, incompetent, or just wants to be relieved of the burden of managing assets, the successor trustee (stated in the living trust) can step in and take over. Generally, the successor trustee is a professional manager or family member with the skills necessary to handle the duties. 3. You anticipate that your will is likely to be challenged. In practice, a trust is much more difficult to challenge than a will. A trust can be used to avoid fights within unconventional families where there are multiple marriages resulting in step families or unmarried companions and other non-traditional family situations.

By Julie Cole, CFP®, FLMI Annuity Product Manager

4. You own property in other states. If you own real estate in another state an additional probate process will need to be completed in that state, unless the property is owned by the living trust. 5. You have a business or farm. A change in ownership of the business could cause an unnecessary disturbance to the business during and after the probate process. A living trust could provide for management continuity and a smooth transition. 6. You have minor children or an adult special needs child or grandchild. A living trust or testamentary trust will need to be established to hold and manage assets for the benefit of the minor or special needs person. You don’t want them to risk losing benefits because they inherited assets directly. Reasons you may not need a living trust: 1. Costs for establishing a living trust can be substantial. Generally attorney fees for establishing a living trust are greater than the costs for a new will with a testamentary trust. 2. It can be a lot of work and you can incur costs re-titling your assets to the trust. You will need to execute a new deed for your real estate. You will need to change the title of your bank and brokerage accounts. Assignments of interests in businesses, notes, and certain personal property will need to be executed. 3. Your primary assets are life insurance and pension plans that have a named beneficiary or bank accounts and real estate that have joint tenants. If all of your assets would bypass the probate process you don’t need a living trust. An online survey in 2012 revealed the 55% of adults in the U.S. do not have a will or a living trust. If you are one of these millions without a plan, get to an attorney and get a will or living trust completed in 2013. Don’t leave your loved ones depending on state laws and the court system to sort through your affairs.

Graduate Drawing

If you are graduating from high school, college, or technical school, and are a member of Western Fraternal Life Association, we would like to acknowledge you in the June issue of the Fraternal Herald. We will also enter your name in a drawing for three prizes of $100 each. Please send in the completed form by May 15. Mail to: Fraternal Department, Western Fraternal Life Association, 1900 First Avenue NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402-5372 Please Print

I would like to enter my name in the Graduate Drawing.

Name____________________________________________________

Phone No.__________________________

Address__________________________________________________

Lodge No.__________________________

________________________________________________________ School_____________________________ March 2013

11

CALENDAR Mar. 16 — Lodge No. 32, Hillsboro, WI—Mtg., noon; Bernie's Wagon Wheel. — Lodge No. 38, Austin, MN—Mtg., 1 p.m.; Mower County Senior Center; St. Patrick's Day party. Mar. 17 — Lodge No. 121, Caldwell, KS—Mtg., 2 p.m.; St. Patrick's. — Lodge No. 242, Owosso, MI—Mtg., 11:30 a.m.; lodge hall; Easter party. Mar. 19 — Lodge No. 296, Omaha, NE—Mtg., 6 p.m.; Sokol South Omaha Hall; potluck. Mar. 21 — Lodge No. 9, Morse Bluff, NE—Mtg., 6:30 p.m.; Morse Bluff Hall. — Lodge No. 492, Coldwater, MI—Event at Litchfield Library, 108 Chicago St, Litchfield, MI at 3:30 p.m; Homer Library, 141 W. Main St, Homer, MI at 6 p.m. Mar. 24 — Lodge No. 260, Kolin, LA— 3 p.m.; Kolin Lodge Hall; we will have the Easter egg hunt this same day in conjunction with our mtg. — Lodge No. 408, City Point, WI— Noon; City Point Community Center; Easter party potluck, mtg, bingo; egg hunt for kids; food pantry collection. Mar. 28 — Lodge No. 141, Cadott, WI—Mtg., 5 p.m.; Cadott Color Center. — Lodge No. 289, Houston, TX—Mtg., 6:30 p.m. Apr. 1 — Lodge No. 68, Brainard, NE—Mtg., 6 p.m.; Sunshine Court, David City. — Lodge No. 152, Farwell, NE—Mtg., Noon; Farwell Fire Hall; dinner and meeting. — Lodge No. 500, Cedar Rapids, IA—wfla Annex, 124 19th St NE, Cedar Rapids; 5:30 p.m. wine tasting social with mtg to follow. Bring a bottle of wine and hors d' oeuvres; bring personal care items for Linn County Veteran's Assoc. Apr. 2 — Lodge No. 89, Oklahoma City, OK—Mtg., 2 p.m.; Swadley Barbecue, 4000 Rockwell, Oklahoma City, OK. — Lodge No. 262, Cedar Rapids, IA—Mtg.; 6 p.m.; Hus Memorial Church; we will be making bookmarks for Earth Day booklets that we are giving to St. Jude's second graders. Apr. 3 — Lodge No. 108, Denmark, WI—Mtg., 7:30 p.m.; VFW Hall in Denmark; bring clothes for St. Vincent de Paul. — Lodge No. 247, Flint, MI—Mtg.; Walli's East. Apr. 5 — Lodge No. 29, Prague, NE—Mtg., 2 p.m.; Centennial Room. — Lodge No. 246, Alton, KS—Mtg., Noon; Bull City Café. Plan State Meeting. — Lodge No. 492, Coldwater, MI—Mtg., Brauker Insurance, 114 S. Chicago St., Litchfield, MI. Apr. 6 — Lodge No. 141, Cadott, WI—Noon; Cadott Bohemian Hall; mtg following cleaning of hall. Apr. 7 — Lodge No. 3, Crete, NE—Mtg., 1:30 p.m.; Centennial Terrace, Crete; finalize plans for District No. 3 Meeting. — Lodge No. 106, Lankin, ND—Lankin Senior Center; 12:30 p.m. potluck with mtg to follow. — Lodge No. 242, Owosso, MI—Mtg., 1 p.m.; board meeting at 1 p.m.; lodge meeting at 1:30 p.m. — Lodge No. 426, Lincoln, NE—Golden Corral, 3920 North 27th St.; dine out meeting at 12:30 p.m., mtg after lunch. — Lodge No. 437, Ord, NE—Mtg., 1 p.m.; Agnes Janda home; bring cookies for daycares, activities for the month; Easter egg hunt for HeadStart, clean small park. Apr. 8 — Lodge No. 13, Cedar Rapids, IA—Mtg., 7 p.m.; wfla Annex; finalize JOIN HANDS DAY project. — Lodge No. 20, Whitelaw, WI—Mtg., 7 p.m.; Kellnersville Community Center, Kellnersville, WI; plan JHD project. — Lodge No. 127, Owatonna, MN—Mtg., 6 p.m.; Izaak Walton Bldg; Earth Day theme. Apr. 9 — Lodge No. 45, Omaha, NE—Mtg., 6:30 p.m.; South Omaha Sokol Hall, Omaha, NE; donate cleaning products for Stephen's Center. — Lodge No. 221, Menchalville, WI— 8 a.m.; K-City Diner, Kellnersville; breakfast mtg. Apr. 10 — Lodge No. 84, Table Rock, NE—Mtg., 10 a.m.; Senior Center; Earth day & JOIN HANDS DAY. — Lodge No. 342, Spencer, NE—Mtg., 8 p.m.; Frank & Connie Zidko home. — Lodge No. 346, Willow River, MN—Mtg., 1 p.m.; Community Room, Wild River Apartments, Sandstone, MN. Apr. 11 — Lodge No. 147, Mandan, ND—Mtg., 6:30 p.m.; lodge hall; discussion on lodge clean up. — Lodge No. 332, Weyerhaeuser, WI—Mtg., 1 p.m.; Virginia Budron. Apr. 13 — Lodge No. 32, Hillsboro, WI—Mtg., Noon; Bernie's Wagon Wheel; Honor 25, 50, & 75-year members. — Lodge No. 73, Menominee, MI—Mtg., Noon; Tradewinds Restaurant, Marinette.

12

Apr. 14 — Lodge No. 14, Ord, NE—Mtg., 11 a.m.; North Loup Café. — Lodge No. 193, Adams, WI—Mtg., 1 p.m.; Big Flats Town Hall; potluck meal before meeting; food pantry and family center items may be brought in. — Lodge No. 225, Bannister, MI—ZCBJ Hall; presentation of 50/75-year pins and initiation of new members. Mtg at 10 a.m. with potluck at noon followed by program. Collection for veterans. Contact Sally Stoll 989-847-2461. Apr. 15 — Lodge No. 155, Montgomery, MN—Mtg., 6 p.m.; Flipside Pub & Grill, New Prague; RSVP 507-744-2716. Apr. 16 — Lodge No. 296, Omaha, NE—Mtg., 6 p.m.; Sokol South Omaha Hall; members bring can soup (no creamed) sandwiches by the lodge. Apr. 18 — Lodge No. 9, Morse Bluff, NE—Mtg., 6:30 p.m.; Morse Bluff Hall. Apr. 21 — Lodge No. 121, Caldwell, KS—Mtg., 2 p.m.; Spring party; snacks. — Lodge No. 242, Owosso, MI—Mtg.; Lodge hall; celebrate 50 & 75-year pin recipients. Hank Haller playing. Apr. 24 — Lodge No. 236, Phillps, WI—1:30 p.m.; Aspirus Pleasant View Nursing Home; monthly birthday party for patients, dancing, cake, and ice cream. Regular meeting there before party begins. — Lodge No. 427, Oxford, IA—Mtg.; supper. Apr. 28 — Lodge No. 260, Kolin, LA—1 p.m.; Kolin Lodge Hall; annual fish fry before mtg. Apr. 30 — Lodge No. 225, Bannister, MI—Mtg.; ZCBJ Hall; blood drive; Noon-6 p.m. May 1 — Lodge No. 247, Flint, MI—Mtg.; Walli's East. May 3 — Lodge No. 29, Prague, NE—Mtg., 2 p.m.; Centennial room. — Lodge No. 141, Cadott, WI—Mtg., 5 p.m.; Bohemian Hall; Long Live the Squeeze Box. — Lodge No. 246, Alton, KS—Mtg., Noon; Bull City Café; discuss State Meeting. May 4 — Lodge No. 225, Bannister, MI—Mtg.; JOIN HANDS DAY; Friends of Hospice 8 a.m.-4p.m.; Contact Diane Bradley 862-5378. — Lodge No. 260, Kolin, LA—Mtg., 9 a.m.; JOIN HANDS DAY. May 5 — Lodge No. 3, Crete, NE—Mtg., 1:30 p.m.; Centennial Terrace, Crete; JOIN HANDS DAY project. — Lodge No. 28, Clarkson, NE— Brass Rail Restaurant; noon meal with mtg to follow; birthday celebration. — Lodge No. 106, Lankin, ND—Lankin Senior Center; honor new and 50-year members; 12:30 p.m. potluck with mtg to follow; JOIN HANDS DAY with 4-H children. — Lodge No. 168, Mahnomen, MN—Mtg., 1 p.m.; Red Apple Café; cemetery cleaning day. — Lodge No. 225, Bannister, MI—Mother's and Father's Day. mtg at 10 a.m., potluck at noon, followed by program. — Lodge No. 242, Owosso, MI—Mtg.; Lodge Hall; Board mtg 1 p.m.; lodge mtg 1:30 p.m. — Lodge No. 408, City Point, WI—Mtg., Noon; City Point Community Center; potluck, and bingo. — Lodge No. 426, Lincoln, NE—Mtg.; Lincoln Czech Festival at PLA-Mor; bicycle giveaway and scholarship award. — Lodge No. 437, Ord, NE—Mtg.; 1 p.m.; Agnes Janda home; JHD, honor graduates. May 6 — Lodge No. 68, Brainard, NE—Mtg., 6 p.m.; Sunshine Court, David City; Mother's Day; JOIN HANDS DAY. — Lodge No. 74, Dorchester, NE—Mtg., 7:30 p.m.; Tabor Hall. — Lodge No. 152, Farwell, NE—Mtg., Noon; Farwell Fire Hall; dinner and meeting. — Lodge No. 500, Cedar Rapids, IA—Mtg.; wfla Annex, 124 19th St NE, Cedar Rapids; 6 p.m. dinner with mtg to follow. Master gardener speaking prior to mtg. May 7 — Lodge No. 89, Oklahoma City, OK—Mtg., 2 p.m.; Swadleys Barbecue, 4000 Rockwell, Oklahoma City. — Lodge No. 221, Menchalville, WI—Mtg., 6:30 p.m.; Community Center. — Lodge No. 262, Cedar Rapids, IA—Mtg., 6 p.m.; Hus Memorial Church, 2808 Schaeffer Dr SW. — Lodge No. 401, Dallas, TX—Mtg., 7 p.m. May 8 — Lodge No. 84, Table Rock, NE—Mtg., 10 a.m.; Senior Center; Memorial weekend. — Lodge No. 342, Spencer, NE—Mtg., 8 p.m.; Dr. Charles & Donna Zidko home. — Lodge No. 346, Willow River, MN—Mtg., 1 p.m.; Community Room, Wild River Apartments, Sandstone, MN. May 9 — Lodge No. 147, Mandan, ND—Mtg., 6:30 p.m.; lodge hall; discussion on Memorial Day service and get together after service.

March 2013

CALENDAR CALENDAR

— Lodge No. 332, Weyerhaeuser, WI—Mtg., — Lodge No. 332, Weyerhaeuser, WI—Mtg., 1 p.m.; Stephi Mazon. May 11 — Lodge No. 73, Menominee, MI—Mtg., May 11 — Lodge No. 73, Menominee, MI—Mtg., noon; Tradewinds Restaurant, Marinette. May 12 — Lodge No. 14, Ord, NE—Mtg., May 12 — Lodge No. 14, Ord, NE—Mtg., 11 11 a.m.; a.m.; North North Loup Loup Café. Café. May 13 — May 13 — Lodge No. 13, Cedar Rapids, IA—Mtg., Lodge No. 13, Cedar Rapids, IA—Mtg., 7 p.m.; wfla Annex. — Lodge No. 20, 20, Whitelaw, Whitelaw, WI—Mtg., 7 p.m.; Kellnersville — Lodge No. Community Center, Kellnersville, WI. — Lodge No. 127, Owatonna, MN—Mtg., — Lodge No. 127, Owatonna, MN—Mtg., 6 p.m.; Izaak Walton Bldg; potluck/mtg. May 14 — May 14 — Lodge No. 45, Omaha, NE—Mtg., Lodge No. 45, Omaha, NE—Mtg., 6:30 p.m.; South Omaha Sokol Hall, Omaha, NE; collecting for YES Kids - personal care products, snacks, t-shirts, socks, washcloths. May 16 — 6:306:30 p.m.;p.m.; Morse Bluff May 16 — Lodge No. 9, Morse Bluff, NE—Mtg., Morse Lodge No. 9, Morse Bluff, NE—Mtg., Hall. Bluff Hall. May 18 — May 18 — Lodge No. 38, Austin, MN—Mtg., Lodge No. 38, Austin, MN—Mtg., 1 p.m.; Mower County Senior Center. — Lodge No. 82, 82, Yuba, Yuba, WI—Mtg., 10 a.m.; Czech National — Lodge No. Cemetery, cemetery clean up. Bring a dish to pass for noon lunch. May 19 — No. 121, 121, Caldwell, Caldwell, KS—Mtg., 6 p.m.; Mother's/ May 19 — Lodge Lodge No. Father's Day; covered dish. — Lodge No. 155, 155, Montgomery, Montgomery, MN—Mtg., noon; Richter — Lodge No. Wood Park; honor 50/75-year members and also plan to honor our graduating students and scholarship recipients. RSVP 507-744-2716. — Lodge No. 193, Adams, WI—Mtg., — Lodge No. 193, Adams, WI—Mtg., 1 p.m.; Big Flats Town Hall; potluck meal before meeting; food pantry and family center items to be brought in. May 22 — May 22 — Lodge No. 296, Omaha, NE—Mtg., Lodge No. 296, Omaha, NE—Mtg., 6 p.m.; Bohemian Café; 50/75-year members honored - reservations needed. May 26 — May 26 — Lodge No. 260, Kolin, LA—Mtg., Lodge No. 260, Kolin, LA—Mtg., 3 p.m.; Kolin Lodge Hall. May 30 — 6:30 p.m. p.m. May 30 — Lodge No. 289, Houston, TX—Mtg., Lodge No. 289, Houston, TX—Mtg., 6:30 June 2 — Lodge No. 3, Crete, NE—Mtg., June 2 — Lodge No. 3, Crete, NE—Mtg., 1:30 p.m.; Centennial Terrace. — Lodge No. 28, Clarkson, NE—Brass — Lodge No. 28, Clarkson, NE—Brass Rail Restaurant; noon meal with mtg to follow; birthday celebration. — Lodge No. 106, Lankin, ND—Mtg.; — Lodge No. 106, Lankin, ND—Mtg.; Lankin Senior Center; 12:30 potluck with mtg to follow. — Lodge No. 437, Ord, NE—Mtg.; — Lodge No. 437, Ord, NE—Mtg.; 1 p.m.; Agnes Janda home; items for the Crisis Center, bike giveaway, Father's Day rod run. June 3 — Lodge No. 68, Brainard, NE—Mtg.; June 3 — Lodge No. 68, Brainard, NE—Mtg.; Sunshine Court, David City; Father's Day celebration. — Lodge No. 74, Owosso, MI—Mtg. — Lodge No. 74, Owosso, MI—Mtg. 7:30 7:30 p.m.; p.m.; Tabor Tabor Hall. Hall. — Lodge No. 152, Farwell, NE—Mtg., — Lodge No. 152, Farwell, NE—Mtg., noon; Farwell Fire Hall; Dinner and Father's Day meeting. — Lodge No. 500, 500, Cedar Cedar Rapids, Rapids, IA—Mtg.; lodge picnic, — Lodge No. Jones Park, Cedar Rapids, Hilltop pavilion.; 5:30 p.m. dinner with mtg to follow. Lodge provides meat, bring sides & table service. Scholarship presentation. June 4 — Lodge No. 89, Oklahoma City, OK—Mtg., June 4 — Lodge No. 89, Oklahoma City, OK—Mtg., 2 p.m.; Swadley's Barbecue, 4000 Rockwell, Oklahoma, City, OK. — Lodge No. 262, 262, Cedar Cedar Rapids, Rapids, IA—Mtg., 6 p.m.; Hus — Lodge No. Memorial Church, 2808 Schaeffer Dr, SW. June 5 — Lodge No. 108, Denmark, WI—Mtg., June 5 — Lodge No. 108, Denmark, WI—Mtg., 7:30 p.m.; VFW Hall in Denmark; bring personal items for Freedom House. — Lodge No. 221, 221, Menchalville, Menchalville, WI—6 p.m.; Community — Lodge No. Center; summer picnic & mtg; potluck supper. June 6 — Lodge No. 247, Flint, MI—Mtg.; Walli's East. East. June 6 — Lodge No. 247, Flint, MI—Mtg.; Walli's Kernels Ball Game. — Lodge No. 500, Cedar Rapids, IA—Mtg.; — Lodge No. 500, Cedar Rapids, IA—Mtg.; Kernels Ball Date/Time TBD. TBD. Game. Date/Time June 7 — Lodge No. 29, Prague, NE—Mtg., June 7 — Lodge No. 29, Prague, NE—Mtg., 2 p.m.; Centennial room. June 8 — Lodge No. 73, Menominee, MI—Mtg., June 8 — Lodge No. 73, Menominee, MI—Mtg., noon; Tradewinds Restaurant, Marinette. June 9 — Lodge No. 14, Ord, NE—Mtg., 11 a.m.; a.m.; North North Loup Loup Café. Café. June 9 — Lodge No. 14, Ord, NE—Mtg., 11 — Lodge No. 193, Adams, WI—Mtg., — Lodge No. 193, Adams, WI—Mtg., 1 p.m.; Big Flats Town Hall; potluck meal before meeting, food pantry and family center items to be brought in. — Lodge No. 408, City Point, WI—Mtg., — Lodge No. 408, City Point, WI—Mtg., City Point Community Center; potluck - bingo. June 10 — Lodge No. 13, Cedar Rapids, IA—Mtg., 7 p.m.; wfla Annex. June 10 — Lodge No. 13, Cedar Rapids, IA—Mtg., — Lodge No. 20, 20, Whitelaw, Whitelaw, WI—Mtg., 7 p.m.; Kellnersville — Lodge No. Community Center, Kellnersville, WI; "Apron" display and demonstration (history of the apron - lady was over 150 aprons with special meanings). meanings). — Lodge No. 127, Owatonna, MN—Mtg., — Lodge No. 127, Owatonna, MN—Mtg., 6 p.m.; Izaak Walton Bldg; Flag day and Dairy month. June 11 — Lodge No. 45, Omaha, NE—Mtg.; South Omaha Sokol Hall, June 11 — Lodge No. 45, Omaha, NE—Mtg.; Omaha, NE; celebration honoring 50/75-year members. We are having a home-cooked Czech dinner at 6:30 p.m. at the hall. Must have RSVPs by June 1. All are invited to attend. RSVP to Janet 402-733-5252.

March 2013 2013

June 12 — No. 84, 84, Table Table Rock, Rock, NE—Mtg., 10 a.m.; Senior June 12 — Lodge Lodge No. Center. — Lodge No. 342, Spencer, NE—Mtg., — Lodge No. 342, Spencer, NE—Mtg., 8 p.m.; Frank & Connie Zidko home. — Lodge No. 346, Willow River, MN—Mtg., — Lodge No. 346, Willow River, MN—Mtg., 1 p.m.; Community Room, Wild River Apartments, Sandstone, MN. — Lodge No. 147, Mandan, ND—Mtg., — Lodge No. 147, Mandan, ND—Mtg., 6:30 p.m.; lodge hall; plan annual picnic. June 13 — No. 332, 332, Weyerhaeuser, WI—Mtg., Weyerhaeuser, WI—Mtg., 1 p.m.; Gertie June 13 — Lodge Lodge No. Bonczyk.

apr. Apr. 14 14

State MeetingS Meetings 2013

OK State Mtg, Vision Vision Bank Jim Bank Conference Conference Room, Room, 802 802 Jim Thorpe Blvd, host Lodge Lodge No. No. Thorpe Blvd, Prague, Prague, OK OK 74864, 74864, 12:30 12:30 p.m.; p.m.; host 46. 46. apr. 20 Bull City City Cafe, Cafe, registration registration begins begins at at 10 10 a.m., a.m., Apr. 20 KS State Mtg, Bull noon meal, host Lodge Lodge No. No. 246. 246. noon meal, mtg mtg to to follow; follow; host apr. 21 ia State Mtg, Clarion Clarion Inn, Inn, Cedar registration 10 Apr. 21 IA Cedar Rapids; Rapids; registration 10 a.m.; a.m.; host Lodge host Lodge No. No. 423. 423. Ryan's Grill Grill Buffet Buffet and and Bakery, Bakery, 1400 1400 N. N. apr. 27 tX State Mtg, Ryan's Apr. 27 TX Highway 77, 77, Waxahachie, Waxahachie, TX registration at at 10:30 10:30 Highway TX 75165; 75165; registration a.m.; host host Lodge Lodge No. No. 402. 402. a.m.; 22/23 MN Mn State Mtg, Holiday Holiday Inn Inn in in Alexandria; Alexandria; host host Lodge Lodge No. June 22/23 No. 192. 192. aug. 24 24 Trip County County Library Library Mtg Mtg Rm., Rm., 12:30 12:30 p.m., p.m., host host Aug. SD State Mtg, Trip Lodge No. No. 237. 237. Lodge ne State Mtg, Tabor Tabor Hall; Registration begins host Sept. 28 28 NE Hall; Registration begins at at 9 9 a.m.; a.m.; host Lodge No. No. 74 74 Lodge Oct. 19/20 19/20 WI Wi State Mtg, Best Best Western, Western, Menominee, Menominee, MI. MI. nov. 3 3 Mi State Mtg, ZCBJ ZCBJ Lodge Lodge Hall, Hall, Bannister; Bannister; 9:30 9:30 a.m. Nov. MI a.m. coffee, coffee, 10:30 a.m. 10:30 a.m. mtg. mtg. Mar. 17 17 Mar. 23 23

DiStRiCt MeetingS 2013 DISTRICT Meetings

2 June 8 June 23 June 8 June 23

ne ZCBJ Hall, NE District 5, ZCBJ Hall, Verdigre, Verdigre, NE. NE. Wi/Upper Mi MI advisory Advisory Meeting, Hotel Hotel Mead, Mead, Wisconsin Wisconsin WI/Upper Rapids; 9 9 a.m. a.m. Rapids; ne District 4, City noon potluck; host City Hall Hall in in Clarkson, Clarkson, NE; NE; noon potluck; host NE Lodge No. No. 28. 28. Lodge Wi District 1, Grobschmidt Grobschmidt Senior host Lodge Lodge No. No. WI Senior Center; Center; host 48. 48. MnDistrict DistrictMtg, 1, Red AppleEast, Cafe,Flint; Mahnomen, MN; Registration Walli's 9:30 coffee, 10:30 mtg. MI at 11:30 a.m.2,with dinner to follow at noon. host Lodge No. Komensky Hall in Hutchinson; MN District Mi District Mtg, Walli's East, Flint; 9:30 coffee, 10:30 mtg. 34. Mn District 2, Komensky in Hutchinson; hosthost Lodge No. Czech HallHall in Du Bois at 2 p.m.; Lodge NE 34. 101. No. ne District Hall in Building; Du Bois at 2 p.m.; host 4, Czech Izaak Walton host Lodge No.Lodge 127. MN District 2, No. District 101. 3, Wilber Care Center Activity Room; hosted by NE Mn District Lodge No. 3.4, Izaak Walton Building; host Lodge No. 127. ne District District 5; 3, Host Wilber CareNo. Center Lodge 32. Activity Room; hosted by WI Lodge No. 3.2, Reindl's in Menchalville, WI; host Lodge No. WI District Wi District 5; Host Lodge No. 32. 221. Wi District 2, Menchalville, WI; Lodge host Lodge No. 4, Reindl's Czeska in Opera House; host No. 100, WI 221. Haugen, WI. Wi District 3, 4, Tradewinds Czeska Opera House; host Lodge No. 100, Restaurant. WI Haugen, WI.Mtg, Owosso ZCBJ Hall; 9:30 coffee, 10:30 mtg. MI District Wi District 3, Tradewinds Restaurant. Mi District Mtg, Owosso ZCBJ Hall; 9:30 coffee, 10:30 mtg.

May 24-26 July 26/27 May Oct. 24-26 25/26 July 26/27 Oct. 25/26

Board of Directors Meeting, Ennis, TX BOaRD MeetingS 2013 IA Board of Directors Meeting, Cedar Rapids, Board Directors Meeting, TX Board of of Directors Meeting, Ennis, Cedar Rapids, IA Board of Directors Meeting, Cedar Rapids, IA Board of Directors Meeting, Cedar Rapids, IA

apr. 7 Apr. 7 apr. 21 14 Apr. apr. 21 Apr. 28 apr. 28 May 5 May 52 June

BOARD MEETINGS 2013

FestivalS 2013

May 17-19 Houby Days, Cedar Rapids, IA. Parade, crafts, music, food, FeStivalS 2013 museum tours. May Houby Days, Cedar Rapids, IA. Hastings Parade, crafts, food, June17-19 1 South Central Czech Festival; VFW music, Post Home, museum tours. Ave., Hastings, NE; Accordion jam, Czech Hwy 6 & Wabash June 1 South Central Czechand Festival; Hastings VFW Post Home, food, entertainment, free polka dance. Hwy 6 &Czech Wabash Ave., Hastings, jam, Queen Czech June 14-16 Phillips Festival, Phillips,NE; WI.Accordion Music, State food, entertainment, and free polka Baking dance. Contest, Lidice Pageant, vendors, State Kolacky June 14-16 Phillips Czech Festival, WI. Music, Stateand Queen Memorial, traditional food,Phillips, antique farm equipment, beer Pageant, garden. vendors, State Kolacky Baking Contest, Lidice Memorial, traditional food, antique farm equipment, and beer August 2-4 Wilber Czech Festival, Wilber, NE. Crowning of Czech queen, garden. music, dancing, food vendors. august NE. Crowning of Czech queen, October2-4 5 Wilber Yukon Czech CzechFestival, Festival,Wilber, Yukon, OK. Carnival, parade, craft music, food vendors. booths,dancing, music, dancing, singing, games, royalty crowning October 5 Yukon Czech Festival, Yukon, OK. Carnival, parade, craft and traditional food including kolaches and klobasa. booths, music, dancing, singing, games, royalty crowning and traditional food including kolaches and klobasa.

13

KITCHEN TALK

In the Kitchen with Kids Kids love to help in the kitchen. Allowing kids to help teaches them basic cooking skills and is a great way to share quality time together. Here is a yummy, easy snack they can help make and have fun with.

Hot Fudge Pudding Cake

2 C 4 tsp ½ tsp 1½ C 4 T

Ellen Schroeder, No. 82, Yuba, WI flour 1 C milk baking powder 4 T butter, melted salt 1½ C brown sugar sugar 6 T cocoa cocoa 2⅔ C hot water

Sift flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, and cocoa (4T) together in a bowl. Stir in milk and melted butter. Spread in ungreased 9x13" pan. Sprinkle with mixture of brown sugar and 6T cocoa. Pour hot water slowly over entire batter. Bake at 3500 for 45-50 minutes. Serve warm. Cut into serving squares, invert on to serving plate. Drip sauce from pan over this. May add ice cream of whipped cream if desired. Serves 12-16.

Pumpkin Cake Roll

Rita Cermak, Lodge No. 147, Mandan, ND 3 eggs 1 C sugar ⅔ C pumpkin (canned mix) 1 C flour 1 tsp lemon juice 1 tsp baking powder 2 tsp cinnamon 1 tsp nutmeg 1 tsp ginger 1 C walnuts

Mix ingredients as listed except for nuts. Spread on a waxed paper lined 15x10x1 pan. Sprinkle with nuts. Bake 15 minutes at 3750. Filling

1 C powder sugar 1 8 oz pkg cream cheese, softened ½ tsp vanilla extract

4

T butter

Beat cream cheese, vanilla, and butter together until creamy. Spread on baked pumpkin cake. Roll up like a jelly roll. Then dust with powder sugar. Slice and serve.

Fabulous Fast Shrimp

S'more Pops

7 oz large marshmallows 10 oz good milk chocolate, chopped ¼ C graham cracker crumbs lollipop sticks Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. In a heat proof bowl set above a pot of simmering water, melt chocolate. (I melted it in the microwave - stirring often.) Meanwhile, insert lollipop sticks into the centers of the marshmallows, far enough in so that the marshmallow will not fall off when dipping. Put graham cracker crumbs in a small bowl. Dip marshmallows in chocolate, covering completely, allowing excess chocolate to drip off. Quickly dip or roll them into the graham cracker crumbs and place them (standing up on the marshmallow end) on the parchment paper. Either allow the chocolate to set at room temperature or place them in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Orange Jello Salad

Elaine Drahosh, No. 346, Willow River, MN 1 3 oz pkg orange jello 1 can mandarin oranges 1 pt orange sherbert 2 banana's

Drain juice from oranges and add water to juice to make 1 C. Boil, add jello, dissolve, add sherbert, and cool a little. Add oranges and bananas. Refrigerate until set.

1 ¼ 1 1 ½

Carol Vargo, Lodge No. 330, Brookfield, IL T butter or margarine 2 stalks celery, chopped C chopped green pepper ¼ C sliced green onions lb fresh large shrimp, shelled and deveined can (10¾ oz) Campbell's Cream of Chicken Soup or 98% Fat Free Cream of Chicken Soup C water dash of cayenne pepper hot cooked rice paprika

Heat butter in skillet. Add celery, green pepper, and green onions, and cook until tender. Add shrimp and cook 3-5 minutes or until done. Add soup, water, and cayenne pepper and heat through. (If using cooked shrimp, add soup, water, and cayenne to vegetables and heat. Then add the shrimp and cook until all is hot.) Serve over rice and sprinkle with paprika.

Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies

1 C ¼ tsp 1½ C 1 C 1 C

Dorothy Roy, No. 431, Denver, CO flour ½ tsp baking soda baking powder ½ tsp salt oatmeal ½ C shortening brown sugar 1 egg chocolate chips 1 tsp vanilla coconut

Cream shortening and sugar thoroughly; add egg, and dry ingredients (soda, salt, baking powder, and oats). Add vanilla and coconut; mix well and add chips. Drop by teaspoon full 2 or 3 inches apart on a greased cookie sheet. Bake in moderate oven at 3250 for 12 to 15 minutes. Makes 2 ½ dozen cookies.

* Please include serving amounts with recipes you submit. * 14

March 2013

F R AT E R N A L F O C U S

Colorado Colorado No. 431, Denver, CO Ruby Henderson, Correspondent

On February 2, we had lunch at the Country Buffet followed by our meeting at Dorothy Roy’s residence, the Johnson Center. It was great to see everyone, since we had no meeting in January.   The secretary read mail received from the Home Office informing us of a teleconference in February. Also a letter from Brad Evans telling us of his itinerary for 2013 was read.  We welcomed new member Julie Holt of Black Hawk, CO. We will try to contact her and invite her to our next meeting, which will be at the Henderson home.   A moment of silence was held for our departed members, Marian Pachner, Esther Voss, and William Vogltanz. Condolences were sent to the families.   We had an extensive visit and report from Wanji regarding the well digging in Kenya, Africa. We voted to give another donation and contacted Kitty Chadima for some ideas. We also wrote a letter to our Director, Brad Evans, for suggestions.

Iowa Cedar No. 7, Cedar Rapids, IA Melissa Clapp, Correspondent

Attending meetings has become more valuable than ever – join us and see why. We held the election of officers for 2013 and results are as follows: President Jack Minder, Vice President Kelsey Clapp, Secretary Don Nieland, Treasurer Craig Van Dyke, and Correspondent Melissa Clapp. Member Craig Van Dyke bowling for BB BS.

good time with a purpose. Our group of bowlers raised $2,026. The high score bowler was Jack Minder. We had six kids participate, which added to the fun. We plan to help with the Cystic Fibrosis Walk on May 4 and will have many opportunities for volunteering or sponsoring. At February’s meeting, we cut out fabric hearts for the Mended Hearts project to provide 60 pillows for heart surgery patients. We are now sending out meeting minutes by email. To be included in our email distribution list for up-to-date information on events and meetings, please send an email to [email protected] SUBJECT: Lodge 7 distro list. Iowa No. 85, Protivin, IA

Cindy Kostohryz, Correspondent

Members met at 10 a.m. on February 3 at the Peace Dining Room in Decorah, IA at Luther College. All officers and trustees were present. The meeting was called to order by President Ron Pecinovsky. Cindy Kostohryz reported that the forms for the Level 1 Award have been sent in. The financial audit was looked over and trustees signed off. Information was received from our high school scholarship applicant, and the award was sent out. Cindy Kostohryz will send a letter to our members congratulating them on being members for 50 and 75-years. We will order safety stickers from the Home Office to be placed at the Cresco library. A moment of silence was held for all deceased members, especially for longtime member, Mildred Fossen. Members brought boxed cards and calendars to be given to the Ossian DeSales School for a special project. A member purchased children’s books, a doll buggy and doll, more dolls, a child’s table, and chair to donate to the new preschool and daycare that is being established in Lime Springs, IA. Four Hundred No. 400, Swisher, IA Mary Ann Siems, President

Members Kelsey Clapp and Brenden Williams Bowling for Kids’ Sake.

Our ‘Bowl for Kids’ Sake’ event to benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of IA was another March 2013

Members met at the Riverside Casino buffet at 11:30 a.m. on February 13. We received correspondence from the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library in regards to the Czech and Slovak History and Cultural conference on April 26 and 27. We received correspondence from Howard J. Wolfe about the 2013 password. We also received information about the State Meeting on April 21. The auditing committee reported that the books were in order. We made a donation to the American Heart Association. Our next meeting will be at the Clarion at 11:30 a.m. on March 13. 15

F R AT E R N A L F O C U S Five Hundred No. 500, Cedar Rapids, IA Trudy Plotz, Correspondent

We opened our February 4 meeting with a moment of silence for deceased members. Youth Activities Director Kelsey Logan, joined us for a potluck meal. The secretary’s minutes were provided and Cheryl Zinkula’s name was added to the list of gift wrappers in December. Youth Activities Director Kelsey Logan spoke about YELL! groups and getting young members involved. The State Meeting will be April 21 at the Clarion Hotel in Cedar Rapids. Registration starts at 10 a.m. and the meeting at 11 a.m. A sign-up sheet was provided for members to sign-up this month and next. We will honor our 50 and 75-year members on November 4 at Cooper’s Mill. Seven new members were voted into the lodge: Aloysius Boeding, Adleigh Plotz, Latyse Smith, Jamika Powell, Jeremy Powell Jr., Josie Csiacsek, and Mallory Steffen. Seventy-eight volunteer hours were reported by members. Linda Grove took 15 magazines, John Plotz took 14 magazines, and Emmy Turkington took 21 magazines to area hospitals. Emmy also took various clothing, personal items, and groceries to the Olivet Mission. She also took box tops, soup labels, and Hy-Vee receipts to Wright School. Linda provided several hundred dollars worth of receipts to Erksine School. Madeline Trpkosh took some medical supplies to the Fall Medical Clinic. Margie Sedlacek reported that we will be putting together Easter baskets for Inn Circle. Trudy Plotz will purchase the bags and grass for the baskets and Marjeanne Jungjohann will provide some items also. Members were asked to bring personal care items for veterans in April and non-perishable items in May. Linda will check into material to make fleece blankets with a youth group for JOIN HANDS DAY.

Kansas

Novy Tabor No. 19, Munden, KS Ella Moravek, Correspondent

Our January 13 meeting was postponed until January 20 due to illness. We didn’t have our usual potluck dinner; instead we did a community project by attending St. George’s soup dinner. This is their annual fundraiser. President Frank Rytych called the meeting to order, and the minutes were read. We were happy to have received our necessary referrals for 2012.   A thank-you note was received for the memorial given to the Maynard Rott family.   Three of our members received their 50-year pins. Since they live too far away to come to our lodge, we will send each a letter of congratulations. It was suggested that we have a youth project to show 16

appreciation to the truck drivers that deliver the things we use every day. Without them, we wouldn’t have the many good things in our stores. We will discuss this more at later meetings.   The officers elected for 2013 are as follows: President Frank Rytych, Vice President Brad Kalivoda, Secretaries Ella Moravek and Sharon Moravek, and Treasurer Sharon Kalivoda. The 2012 books were audited. Happy Birthday was sung to four members celebrating January birthdays. The president suggested we invite families to our next meeting. Four members will make phone call invitations. Our February 10 meeting was well attended. Everyone enjoyed the delicious brisket and all the other good food. We were happy to see members who have not attended before. Members Eleanor and Bob Dusek were the only ones who were able to attend that we called. Members Eleanor and Bob Dusek at our meeting.

 

President Frank Rytych called the meeting to order. Letters from the Home Office were read.   Lodge No. 246 from Alton invited us to their State Meeting on April 20.   We will make monetary donations to Canine for Service, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Republic County, and Republic County High School Band for a trip to Chicago. Member James Rytych, a wounded veteran, uses a canine to help him with his everyday needs. Molly and Justin Hug are part of Big Brothers Big Sisters and spend many hours with their little sister, Lacey. The high school band will perform in Chicago for the Thanksgiving parade.   We will give away two bikes at the Cuba Rock-a-thon on March 17-23.  Bikes will be given the 23rd in conjunction with the roller skating.  Members were asked to volunteer for the week long activities. We discussed a youth project involving students at Belleville. Molly Hug will check if this will be accepted. Happy Birthday was sung to Bob Dusek. The meeting was adjourned. Hvezdnaty Prapor No. 95, Timken, KS Novia Mays, Correspondent

Our February 2 meeting was held at 2 p.m. at the Timken Fire Station.  March 2013

F R AT E R N A L F O C U S Member Blanche Tomecek enjoying the February meeting.

Members decided to provide prepared fruit for a Timken youth group fundraiser breakfast for their parish school. The next meeting will be held on April 6 at 2 p.m. at the Timken Fire Station. Trocnov No. 121, Caldwell, KS Vlasta Albert, Correspondent

Members met in regular session at 2 p.m. on January 20 at the Nostalgia Nook. Ten members and guests enjoyed the beautiful winter afternoon. The 2013 year activity forms were handed out. A get-well card for a member was passed around and signed. Yearly activities were discussed. We sent the referral awards to those receiving them. After the business meeting, snacks and visiting was enjoyed by all.

Thirty-six members and friends enjoyed a bus trip to Firekeeper’s Casino in Battle Creek and showed interest in planning another trip in the future. We welcome new members Kathy Bouma and Brooke Faber and transfer member Dan Zeiger to our fraternal family. Ed Fornusek reported that the trustees and officers met for the annual audit and found all financial records to be in order. Plans were finalized for the Mid-Winter Jamboree. An Appreciation Dinner will be scheduled during March to thank the members and friends who work so hard on behalf of the lodge and the community. Members thanked Bert Wassa for his donation of plates to the kitchen. Prize winners included Bob Ladiski, Joe Malek, and Lisa Skaryd. Candy bars were won by Sally Stoll, Ed Fornusek, Lorraine Fett, Josie Chapin, and Dorothy Martinka. Upcoming events are as follows: April 14, 50 and 75-year presentation and initiation of new members. The meeting starts at 10 a.m., potluck at noon, followed by the program. We will collect for the veterans at this meeting. April 21, District Meeting in Flint starts with 9:30 a.m. coffee, 10:30 a.m. meeting at Walli’s East. April 30 blood drive from noon until 6 p.m. Nova Cechie No. 247, Flint, MI Members Bob and Betty Shaw joined Lodge No. 492, Coldwater, MI charter party on February 10 with Director Mary Bradley (L) and President Howard J. Wolfe (R)

Lower Michigan Michigan No. 225, Bannister, MI Joanne Fornusek, Correspondent

The February 10 meeting was called to order. A moment of silence was observed in memory of members Joanne Ladiski and Myron Tethal. Members extend prayers and sympathy to their families and friends. On behalf of his family, President Bob Ladiski thanked the members for the floral arrangement, funeral dinner, donations, and support at the time of their loss. A thank-you note was also received from the family of Karrie Ann Presson-Reha Coohon for the funeral dinner put on at the hall. Sally Stoll and Lorraine Fett thanked the members who worked and provided food for these dinners. Members Alice Gavenda and Sally Stoll with our collection of clothing for the Missions.

Sally Stoll reported that a representative from the American Red Cross will attend a future meeting to discuss our hall’s designation as an emergency shelter. March 2013

Minnesota Zare Svobody No. 38, Austin, MN Mary Haggerty, Correspondent

On January 19, Fran Nelson, Millie and Verne Baley, Mike Ruzek, Robert Sr., and Robert Jr. Baley served a very delicious meal. Following the meal, Bonnie Sawyer called the meeting to order. Jerry Dennisen and Agent Bob Karkoska were our special guests. Agent Bob Karkoska gave an update on possible new members. He acknowledged that he appreciated the fellowship that we offer. We received a memorial donation in honor of Georgia Oxley. John Cafourek brought the slip from the Salvation Army in response to the 74.5 lbs of canned and dry goods we donated. We also donated 18 lbs of canned goods to the Zumbrota Food Shelf. 17

F R AT E R N A L F O C U S suggested we pay the room rent to the Senior Center for three months rather than monthly. The members agreed to both ideas. Ellie Haeska won the ladies prize and Ken Haggerty won the men’s prize. Ellie Haeska led us in a fun filled dirty bingo game after the meeting.

Members waiting for the meeting to begin.

Zare Zapadu No. 44, Hayward, MN

Marie Krikava, Correspondent Members Ellie Haeska and Bonnie Sawyer helping themselves to the delicious food.

DuWayne Harrington brought large desk calendars for any member who wanted one. He also brought a clipping from the newspaper acknowledging our meeting dates, place, and time. A notebook was passed around to the members for their name, address, and phone number. Ken Haggerty will make a copy for each member. We discussed the President of wfla, Howard J. Wolfe retiring in July. A card for Mr. Wolfe was passed around for each member to sign. It was reported that Melissa, Alex, Kathryn, and Ellie Haeska and Ordella and Jeanne Rolfson made clothing donations to the Epilepsy Foundation. Bonnie took Campbell Soup labels from our group and donated them to Riverside Elementary School in Rochester. Mary Haggerty proposed the idea that we reimburse the Denisen’s for the coffee they provide for each meeting. The members were in agreement. Bonnie reminded the members to bring in used cards. We will continue to make recycled cards to sell. We’ll also be making small boxes from the cards. Bonnie informed members that we will be sponsoring a lodge garage sale in May at Jerry and Beth Pestka’s home in Rochester. Members may begin bringing donated items to the meetings. As of now, we have not set a date for the garage sale. We nominated Robert Baley Sr. as our candidate for Fraternalist the Year. Pictures were passed out to each of the five members who received a Certificate of Appreciation Award. We thank our photographer, Ken Haggerty. We have been following the story telling technique of Lori Silverman. Mike Ruzek will study the process and report back to the lodge. Ordella suggested we take money out of our donations can each meeting for the women and men’s drawing. She 18

Our February 10 meeting had to be cancelled due to bad weather; however, our members were busy. We co-hosted a Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser with the Glenville-Emmons Post Prom group on January 27. We furnished many of the ingredients for this pancake breakfast. Dan and Craig Rayman flipped pancakes for them. They are pro’s at this and can organize the kitchen work professionally. We appreciate them as our members. We received a nice thank-you note signed by the entire junior class of Glenville-Emmons High School. Member Jim Benesh constructed and painted this wooden barn quilt square for his and Janice’s’ barn.

We want to thank Director Duane Jirik and the Home Office for the Community Grant Matching Funds check of $250. We held a Community Fundraising Pancake Breakfast and Bake Sale to construct a Veteran’s Memorial at the Bohemian National Cemetery. This project was begun by three of our members, Emil Prantner, Milo Belshan, and Ernie Benesh; all WW II veterans. We hope to have the memorial completed by this fall and ready for dedication. We were happy to receive notice from the Home Office that our lodge has five new members: Eugene Pacovsky, Je Vonne Budach, Lana Stanley, Steven Borge, and Debra Borge. We welcome them and are happy to have them as members. We will be participating in ‘Our Heritage’ at the North Bridge Mall in Albert Lea on April 6 in the afternoon. Due to increased health safety concerns, there will be no kolaches tasting this year. However, there will be interesting activities for those who attend. Hope to see you there!

March 2013

F R AT E R N A L F O C U S Owatonna No. 127, Owatonna, MN

Ledec No. 192, Alexandria, MN

Breyonna Stursa, Correspondent

Donald Trousil, Correspondent

We met at the Izaak Walton building on February 11 at 6 p.m.  We discussed our 2012 expenses that we accrued and brought up suggestions and ideas for what we could do for 2013. We are going to discuss this more at the March meeting. Prizes were given for the most referrals. Burt Cramer took first place with four referrals, Don Resler, Shirley Ripka, and Dan Stursa received a tie for second place with each having two referrals. Great job everyone, keep the referrals coming. The District Meeting will be April 28 at the Izaak Walton Building starting at noon. Owatonna No. 127 will be hosting this year. We will talk more about this at the March meeting. We discussed how we are going to meet the Lodge Outstanding Leadership Award for 2013. Keep your ideas coming; we will come up with a plan and discuss it at our March meeting. Great job everyone, we know we can do it! We welcomed our newest member, Robert Vosejpka. A wonderful lunch was provided by Rosemarie Grubish and Karlene Hansen. For entertainment, members watched the DVD Accidental Hero. This was a copy of the play that was held at the Brick Hall in October. Everyone enjoyed it very much.

Our January meeting was held at Donald Trousil’s home. We viewed the requirements needed for the 2013 Level I Award.  A dinner was scheduled for April 14 to honor our 50 and 75-year members.  Member Donald Trousil presenting a donation and groceries to the Douglas County Food Shelf.

Members Bernice, Macy, and Sidney Trousil with gifts for our “Angel Tree” recipient.

Zahrada Minnesoty No. 168, Mahnomen, MN Pearl Uhlir, Correspondent

The meeting was called to order by President James Krajsa at 1:30 p.m. on January 20. Members have collected 42 lbs of can tabs so far. Three hours of volunteer time was turned in by Bennie Zaviska. We will continue to advertise about meetings, dates, and times in the Fraternal Herald and Mahnomen Pioneer. Officers conducted the 2012 financial audit. Members reviewed the Lodge Officer, Survey of Lodges, and Community Service forms that were sent in. We discussed changing meeting dates to the first Sunday of the odd months, except for November and December, at the Red Apple Café at 1 p.m. Members discussed the continuation of community activities and projects, parades in Mahnomen for the Wild Rice Days, Waubun pre-harvest, and JOIN HANDS DAY activities. Can tab collection and the summer picnic were also discussed. We have no 50 or 75-year members to celebrate this year. 2013 is our 100-year anniversary. We will discuss possible activities for this at the March meeting. Three new member applications have been prepared and will be sent to Paul Vaagene the MN Agency Manager.

March 2013

Member Abby Hlinsky is competing for the Miss Douglas County Teen title.  We briefly discussed a few things in regards to hosting the State Meeting. The balance of the meeting was spent creating our annual calendar of events.   Our February meeting and card party were cancelled due to a snow storm. Boleslav Jablonsky No. 219, Strathcona, MN Marvel Pesek, Correspondent

We met at 3 p.m. on January 20 at Ted Kruta’s home. Vice President Kathy Erickson called the meeting to order. Thank-you cards were read from Pat Kruta, the Salvation Army for the donations, and from Frank Burda for the Christmas gift from us. We received a letter from the wfla Scholarship Committee with a list of ten members who are eligible to apply this year. The secretary will follow up with the youth on the list. We will collect items for the Ronald McDonald House in Fargo for our JOIN HANDS DAY project. A wish-list will be passed out to members of items the Ronald McDonald House needs. Shirley, Richard, and Tony audited the treasurer’s book. Member Kathy Erickson passed out fliers about a Czech 19

F R AT E R N A L F O C U S Slovak Sokol in St. Paul on April 6. Her band will be performing. There will also be Czech and Slovak folk dancers performing with them, and many other activities.

Nebraska

Nebraska No. 3, Crete, NE

Cheryl Retherford, Secretary Pro tem

Members gathered on February 3 for a meeting at Centennial Terrace with Viola Pracheil presiding. A thank-you note was read from Evelyn Novak for the fruit basket she received. Cheryl Retherford reported that empty pill bottles were delivered to the two local veterinary clinics. Milk jug caps were delivered to the UCC Church-Crete and small used batteries were taken to Public Health Solutions in Crete. Plans for the April 28, District 3 Meeting were made. The meat provided was decided. Members volunteered food for the meal. More will be finalized at the March meeting. Irene Patak and Dorothy Rejcha provided a delicious lunch following adjournment. Plzen No. 9, Morse Bluff, NE

revealed the 2013 password. We will be collecting old card fronts, used prescription bottles, and Box Tops for Education for the 2013 year. The Board of Trustees audited the Treasurer’s book and found everything to be in order. Our next meeting is April 14 at the North Loup Cafe with an 11 a.m. meeting, dinner, and socializing immediately following. Zapadni Svornost No. 28, Clarkson, NE

Darlene Hrouda, Secretary

We met on February 3 at the Golden Living Center in Clarkson for a noon meal in the family room. The regular meeting was conducted by President Eldon Hrouda. We celebrated January and February birthdays. A letter was read thanking us for our donation to the Clarkson Czech Queen Pageant last year. This year, the pageant will be in March and they hope we will participate in the queen’s gift package again. We will again make a donation. Birthday honorees Brooke Fossum, Eldon Hrouda, Silven Kucera, and Walter Mejstrik.

Greg Spevak, Correspondent

Members met on January 17. Our December meeting was cancelled because of a snow storm. We had 16 members come to the Legion Hall in Morse Bluff. The meeting was called to order by President Keith Racek. All officers were present. Member Virginia Beranek celebrated her 90th birthday. Happy Birthday was sung and cake and ice cream were served at the end of the meeting. Member Elaine Walla also celebrated her birthday with our group. A suggestion was made to change the time of the meeting during winter. Members will be called to remind them of the time change. We will continue collecting box tops. We discussed our youth projects to include bloodmobile help, cemetery clean up before Memorial Day, and low income ministry help. Donations to our supporting organizations were discussed. We had given monetary donations to area groups. Members agreed to review all the requests in an upcoming meeting. Members enjoyed seeing each other and socializing. Our next meeting will be March 21 at noon. Dennice No. 14, Ord, NE

Diane Spilinek, Correspondent

Members met January 13 at the Ord Veteran’s Club. The volunteer hour’s sheet was passed around. Letters from the Home Office were read. Meetings for the rest of the 2013 year will be held at the North Loup Cafe. Meetings will start at 11 a.m. followed by dinner and socializing. We will need three referrals and five new members for the 2013 year. President Maly read a letter from Howard J. Wolfe and 20

The monthly report from the Home Office was read. A thank-you from our adopted Grandma Helen was read for the kolaches we gave her for Christmas. The yearly letter from President Howard J. Wolfe was read. Jokes were shared by Helen, Alice, Walter, and Darlene. Brooke and Tammy reported on the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Walk (JDRF) they worked at, participated in, and donated to. They applied washable tattoos. We will host the District 4 Meeting on April 7 at City Hall. We discussed what meat we will have and what members will bring. The group sang Happy Birthday to the birthday honorees. We enjoyed cakes and rice crispy bars brought by the honorees at the close of the afternoon. Hvezda Svobody No. 45, Omaha, NE Jerri Underwood, Correspondent

Members remembered Lucille V. Connell, James L. Rydl, and George Kozacek in their prayers at our meeting on February 12. Our condolences go out to their families. At our March meeting, members reviewed the financial report for 2012 and approved it. We also discussed the sale of the Sokol Hall. Their move-out day is June 30. As of now, we will be able to continue to meet until then. March 2013

F R AT E R N A L F O C U S Our Vecirek dinner for 50 and 75-year members is being planned. Our cooks will make a Czech-inspired dinner to be held at the hall. This might be your last time to experience the facility before the move. A special invitation will be sent to all 50 and 75-year members now and in advance of the dinner. All are invited but we’ll need reservations ahead of time. We will have more information later. Plan to join us in March. Instead of corned beef and cabbage, we will serve Reuben sandwiches for supper. Let Secretary Janet know if you plan to attend at 733-5252. Vysehrad No. 53, Niobrara, NE Linda Wallick, Correspondent

On February 12, we held our regular meeting at the WFLA Hall in Niobrara. We finished our year-end reports. Members received an invitation to the District 5 Meeting in Verdigre, NE. We are assisting with the Easter egg hunt on March 30 and will give away two bicycles. Candy filled egg arrangements were made, and the necessity of having a fundraiser was discussed. Our next meeting will be April 9 at the WFLA Hall in Niobrara at 8 p.m. Lipany No. 56, Lynch, NE Marita Placek, Correspondent

Our first meeting of 2013 was held on the evening of January 21 at the Lynch Community Hall’s meeting room. Member Keith Placek of Lincoln was welcomed to the meeting. Several thank-you notes were received and read from the Harvest Dinner we served at the Ponca Valley Court low rent housing before Thanksgiving. President Paul read a letter from the Home Office. President Howard J. Wolfe will be retiring in July. A new category, Outstanding Leadership Award, has been added to the Lodge Award/projects program for 2013. He also passed out a list of products that have labels for Education and/or Box Tops for Education for a 2013 project to benefit students of the Lynch School. We received a donation from the NE State Bank for cemetery upkeep. All officers will retain their offices for the 2013 year as follows: President Paul Fisher, Vice President Francis Fisher, Secretary Trudy Nelson, Treasurer Martha Nelson, and Correspondent Marita Placek. Cecho-Moravan No. 68, Brainard, NE Dorothy Schultz, Correspondent

Members and guests enjoyed soups, sandwiches, and salad at our February 4 meeting. President Bea Alexander called the meeting to order. Birthday honorees brought cake and ice cream. Agent Delmer Wondercheck, wife Cindy, and Agent Orv March 2013

Johnson attended. We welcome new members Joan Kay, Connie Spohn, and Roger Spohn. We hope they will attend our meetings. Members baked cookies and these were packaged for people who receive Meals on Wheels. Cookies were also donated to the coffee bar at the Senior Center, Genuses’ House, and the Blood Mobile in Brainard. Ruddy Svoboda and a friend entered pigeons in the “Million Dollar Pigeon Race” in South Africa. Their pigeon came in 126th out of 6,000 pigeons. Ruddy gave a very interesting report on pigeons. Happy birthday Aggie Svoboda, and other February birthdays! Our next meeting will be at 6 p.m. on April 1 at Sunshine Court in David City. Tabor No. 74, Dorchester, NE Marilyn Clark, Correspondent

President Stehlik opened our February 4 meeting at 4:15 p.m. We observed a moment of silence for our recently departed member, James Vajgrt. The 2013 officers were installed. Larry Fuller was appointed trustee for three more years. We will honor our 50 and 75-year members at a date to be announced. Upcoming events were read and discussed. Agent Connie Gibb spoke to us about new rates on different certificates. Our president read a letter from Joan Kotas, secretary of District 3. The District 3 picnic and meeting will be held in Wilber on April 28. Crete No. 3 will host this event. Premysl Otakar II No. 84, Table Rock, NE Evelyn Michaelis, Correspondent

We had several members out sick; we hope to see some of you at the next meeting. The secretary read correspondence. Donations were made to Make-A-Wish in Table Rock, Humboldt Steineuer Prom, and the Heart Association. Following the meeting, members remained for lunch at the Table Rock Senior Center. Jan Kollar No. 101, Du Bois, NE Mary Barker, Correspondent

Our February 4 meeting was held at Bob Blecha’s residence. Karaoke was held on February 3 and the Hillbilly Deville performed on the 9th. The officers will remain the same for the next year. A memorial donation was given to the hall by Joe Tichy’s family. It will be used to purchase some new tables and chairs. On March 23, we will hold an Easter egg hunt. We’ll have a bicycle giveaway and a Spaulding volleyball net and ball. Karaoke by Jim Ullman will be entertainment from 2-4 p.m. Congratulations go out to Greg Blecha for his induction into the Milligan Musicians Hall of Fame on January 19. Suggestions were being passed around as how to get a YELL! group started. 21

F R AT E R N A L F O C U S Robert Firchow was called because there was no NE manager listed in the Fraternal Herald. A pending duck dinner with reservations is in the planning stage for April 21, along with a Polka fest. Our upcoming events include Kenny and Rosie Good Day on April 7, and the Duck dinner on April 21. Slavin No. 112, Comstock, NE Shirley Knapp, Secretary

Members met on February 7 at the Burwell Senior Center. President Richard Bilka called the meeting to order. Communication from the Home Office and thank-you cards were read. We have one new member, Larry Skarka. We donated 36.5 lbs of food to the Food Pantry in Ord and 5 lbs of pop tabs to the Ronald McDonald House. Twelve folding chairs were purchased and recovered by Bower Upholstery for use at the hall. Richard and Kathy Bilka made a donation in memory of Wayne Bilka and Dwaine and Evelyn Michalski to be used towards the folding chairs that were recovered. Valentines were signed by everyone present to send to servicemen. Joyce also asked everyone to sign congratulatory cards for Laddie Bruha and Larry Skarka who were inducted into the Musician’s Hall of Fame in Milligan, NE on January 19. We sent a get-well card and birthday cards. Valentines were sent to the shut-ins and members. The election of officers for the new year was as follows: President Richard Bilka, Vice President Shirley Trojan, Secretary Shirley Knapp, Treasurer Sharon Osentowski, Correspondent Sandra Bruha; Board of Directors include Joyce Pesek (1 year), Sandra Bruha (2 years), and Gary Trojan (3 years). Everyone brought food to share following the meeting, as well as a Valentine’s Day gift to exchange. Cech No. 152, Farwell, NE Dorothy Bonczynski, Correspondent

Members met on February 4 at the Farwell Fire Hall. Agent Delmer Wondercheck and wife, Cindy, were in attendance. Valentine decorations and food were enjoyed. A discussion was held for upcoming activities for the year. Delmer reported two new members. We welcome them. We received thank-you cards from a few people that we sent get-well cards and comfort quilts to. They sure thought the quilts were great. We are trying our best to keep up with making them. A picture with Farwell members in it was found from 1907 in Chicago. Delmer will see if it should be in a museum since this was when the Cech No. 152 lodge was started. The lodge was started in 1905. Very interesting as there are quite a few people we know in the photo. We ended our meeting with visiting, joke telling, and discussion of more ideas. 22

Karlin Junior No. 342, Spencer, NE

Darlene Cizek, Correspondent

Members met at 7 p.m. on January 23 at Dr. Charles and Donna Zidko’s home. We were happy to have visitors Willard and Marita Placek of No. 56, Lynch. Thank-you notes were read from Dr. Charles and Donna Zidko, Frank and Connie Zidko, The Rosalie Mashek family, Spencer Community Hall Improvement Committee, West Boyd School, and Harold and Donna Klasna. Don reported the award forms were completed. Kenny will meet with the trustees to set a date and complete the audit forms. Don read a letter from the Home Office. President Howard J. Wolfe is retiring on July 1, 2013. We were reminded that the District 5 Meeting is in Verdigre on March 17. The members are also to keep saving pop tabs, education labels, and recycled material such as paper, cardboard, aluminum can, etc. The election of officers was held with all officers retaining their positions as follows: President Don Cizek, Vice President Dr. Charles Zidko, Secretary/Treasurer Connie Zidko, and Correspondent Darlene Cizek. Frank reported that the rope on the flag pole at the National Cemetery needs to be replaced when the weather is warmer. Lunch and visiting followed the meeting. Saline Center No. 389, Western, NE Joan Kotas, Secretary

A moment of silence in memory of Longin Prokop was observed after President Darrell Kotas called the February meeting to order. The new rules for the Lodge Awards were discussed. Thank you to Brian Zoubek for his contribution of used batteries. And to Beth Horak, Shirley Zoubek, and Joan Kotas for the coupons to be sent to the overseas commissaries. Those involved in the Chili cook-off contest: Karen Hayek, Kim Kotas, Lynn Zumpfe, Brain Zoubek, Lumir Kotas, Scott Theis, Kaleb Kotas, Russell Zoubek, and Brianna Zoubek.

Attention graduating seniors of No. 389 interested in applying for a scholarship. Contact Judy Kohout at 402-947-2236 for more information. The deadline is April 15.  The monthly treats were taken to our youth daycare project.

March 2013

F R AT E R N A L F O C U S Members Karen Hayek, Kim Kotas, Lynn Zumpfe, Brain Zoubek, and Lumir Kotas were chosen as judges for the annual chili cook-off contest on January 26. An additional judge was Scott Theis. Two of our youth members Kaleb Kotas and Russell Zoubek were the 1st and 2nd place winners. The 3rd place went to Brianna Zoubek.  Newly elected board of trustee, Russell Zoubek, was initiated by President Kotas. His term will expire in three years.

Munchies furnished by the birthday honorees Arnie Homolka, Randy Zoubek, and Joan Kotas were enjoyed during the night. The addition to the walk-in cooler has begun. Several members have been working numerous hours to get the job done. We are updating our military honor roll. If you know of a member that is not listed please contact Joan Kotas. Lincoln No. 426, Lincoln, NE Velma Kotas, Correspondent

On February 3, our membership met at the WOW Hall for a soup dinner.  Those providing soups were John Kirby, Donna Aschwege, and Denise Spale. Our lodge formed a YELL! group, and we are learning (see page 13). We were notified that one of the officers of our lodge would need to be 40 or under to qualify for the new award. Therefore, Denise Spale very graciously declined her elected position as Vice President and Kristina Jacobson, who is 30, volunteered to be our Vice President. It is wonderful to have members supporting fraternal work that makes our communities better by using younger members as they do have so much to contribute. Our YELL! group elected officers, and they are so excited; they are very fun, and it is sometimes hard to keep us focused. The Calendar of Events was prepared on a postcard form and given to members at our meeting. We also mailed them to members not in attendance. If you did not receive one, I have extra cards and will be happy to mail one to you. Please call Velma at 402-489-9525. Our April 7 meeting will be at the Golden Coral at 3920 North 27th. We will eat at 12:30 p.m. The Golden Corral has a private little space for us and we would like to see everyone. Our JOIN HANDS DAY will be at the Mahoney Manor again this year; please come out for that, it is great fun. I drove by and they did do some other things with some of our flower gardens, and I can tell they need us. The date March 2013

we are going to observe JHD has not been set yet. But our YELL! group chairman, Tyler Hosek, informed us that his Boy Scout leader asked him to let them know earlier so we get more youth help. Vilas and Helen Berst celebrated 67 years of marriage; how very wonderful. Vilas and Helen have contributed much to our lodge throughout the years. The scholarship and food bank buckets were passed around for collections and many brought food for the food bank. Betty Soukup brought a receipt for items we collected for Goodwill. Mary Ann Jaros turned in a receipt for pill bottles we collected. Mary Ann took our pill bottles to the Companion Care Veterinary Clinic. Thank you, you are both appreciated. Remember, if you are attending college you may apply for our lodge scholarship. Your applications should be in by March 31. Please contact one of our Scholarship committee members. They are Erma Ruhl at 402-488-6361, Donna Aschwege at 402-421 0803, and Dorothy Benes at 402-4358912.     Loup Valley No. 437, Ord, NE

Sandy L. Psota, Correspondent

We met at the home of Agnes Janda at 1 p.m. President Doris David called the meeting to order. Sandy J. Psota gave the secretaries report and letters from the Home Office were read. The volunteer hours sheet was passed around. Treasurer Linda Ptacnik read her report, and bills were approved and paid. A get-well card was signed. A thank-you note was read from Deca Ramstein Commissary Director Harry Nichols for the coupons sent for veterans and their families. We also received thanks from the NE Foster and Adoption Association for our donation. The installation of officers for 2013 was held as follows: President Doris David, Vice President Agnes Janda, Secretary Sandy J. Psota, Treasurer Linda Ptacnik, Correspondent Sandy L. Psota, Trustees Don Psota and Delores Skolil. JOIN HANDS DAY was discussed. Several suggestions were made and will be decided on at a later meeting. For a youth project, members met at Vinton School on February 12 at 10 a.m. to make Valentines with Mrs. Jones’ elementary students. They were delivered to Grandview Assisted Living Center. Following the meeting, members were saddened to learn of the death of our dedicated, loyal member Pat Konkoleski. She will be greatly missed by our members. Pat has kept the lodge scrap book for years; our deepest sympathy goes to her family. The meeting adjourned, and we had a delicious Valentine lunch. Our next meeting will be April 7 at Agnes Janda’s home at 1 p.m. Bring cookies for daycares. Other activities for the 23

F R AT E R N A L F O C U S month include the Easter egg hunt for HeadStart and the District Meeting on April 15.

North Dakota Kosobud No. 106, Lankin, ND JoAnn Ryba, Correspondent

Members met at the Lankin Senior Center on February 3. Tom gave everyone a lodge financial statement from 2012. The 2012 financial report was audited and approved. Thank-you notes were received from Adams Quick Response, Fordville Quick Response, and the Pregnancy Help Center. Members making homemade Valentines for senior home.

December’s meeting was held at Valdene Sestak home. We presented 75-year pins to Mary Ann Pritchett and Wayne Opela.  The election of officers was held and installation will be held at our next meeting. Cindy Fridrich gave everyone a Christmas present. The prize brought by Marjorie Jezek was won by Mary Ann Pritchett. After our meeting, we enjoyed snacks brought by all the members. Our January meeting was cancelled due to inclement weather.    Our lodge will host the OK State Meeting this year on April 14 in Prague at the Vision Bank, on Main Street. Dinner will be at 12:30 p.m. with the meeting to follow. Jan Zizka No. 67, Yukon, OK

Natalie Stejskal, Treasurer

Members met January 20 at Yukon Czech Hall. A moment of silence was held for William Howard.  Members at our meeting.

Finished Valentines for the senior home.

We discussed honoring our new and 50-year members at the May 5 meeting. The secretary will send out invitations prior to that date. Members reported on donating animal food and other items to the Humane Society. We agreed to have a bike giveaway again at the County Fair in Park River. All members present made 65 homemade Valentines for the Park River Good Samaritan Residents at this meeting.

Oklahoma Oklahoma No. 46, Prague, OK Marjorie Van Dyke, Correspondent

In October, we had a great time at the Pumpkin Festival handing out bags of candy and treats. The whole town turned out for the festivities. For Halloween, our members met on Main Street and again handed out bags of treats to Kids from Prague and the surrounding towns. Schools had dismissed early so the children could come to Prague to trick-or-treat.  In November, our members brought lunch and everyone enjoyed a very tasty Thanksgiving dinner before our meeting.  24

Kristin and Carrie Nail sort through the Pets-nPeople items.

A t h a n k- y o u note was read from Pets-n-People for our generous donation.  At our Christmas party, our members really came through bringing all kinds of items the pet rescue society could use. The items filled the entire back of an SUV. Our lodge has also donated to Yukon’s “Relight the Mill” project. They are raising money to relight the sign that sits on top of the Yukon Mill and Grain building. The Yukon Mill sits on historic Route 66 in downtown Yukon, OK.  Don’t forget the Yukon Czech Hall hosts polka dances every Saturday night, so come on out and have some fun. Also, the Prague Kolaches Festival will be the first Saturday in May. 

South Dakota

South Dakota wfla Scholarship Fund The Scholarship Board wishes to remind eligible students that the April 1 deadline to apply for the two SD wfla Scholarship of $250 is drawing near. The application March 2013

F R AT E R N A L F O C U S form and eligibility requirements can be found on the wfla website at www.wflains.org: click on the subheading “SCHOLARSHIPS” on the left, scroll down to State and Lodge Scholarship, and click on South Dakota.

Texas Eduard Benes No. 428, Houston, TX Frances Bollom, Correspondent

The annual meeting was held at 3 p.m. on December 16, 2012 at the SPJST Lodge 88 alternate hall. The meeting was called to order by Secretary Cecelia Piwetz. Cecelia welcomed everyone and asked for a moment of silent prayer for our deceased members. Cecelia reported that as of November 30, 2012, our lodge had 119 adult members, and 15 juveniles for a total of 134 members. We changed our bank account in September to Wells Fargo and to Citizens State Bank in Sealy.

for December 15, 2013. Frances asked the membership to give Cecelia a big hand for all she does for the lodge.

Washington Seattle No. 181, Seattle, WA Paula Hughart, Correspondent

President Rosie Bodien was invited to present a program to the Olympia Glass Club on January 28. Rosie spoke about her collection of Czech perfume bottles. She related how she became interested in collecting, gave a brief history of Czechoslovakia, and brought some of her collection to show the members. The program was extremely well received by those in attendance. There was much discussion and many questions before and after the program. Rosie did a wonderful job of sharing our Czech heritage! Rosie Bodien shares her perfume bottle knowledge and collection with members of the Olympia Glass Club.

 

President Frances Bollom presenting a donation to the Sealy Food Center.

Rosie Bodien at the luncheon meeting of the Olympia Glass Club.

In 2012, we received a $100 reward check from the Home Office for achieving the Level 3 Award. The Home Office called Cecelia and asked her to do something like JOIN HANDS DAY. With our membership scattered so many miles apart, that is impossible to do. The Home Office also asked us to get referrals. One referral was submitted on November 30, 2012. Charity works by members are as follows: Bill and Frances Bollom sang with a group in a nursing home and did other works of charity. Our members made a monetary donation to the Sealy Food Pantry in 2012. Last year, Kenneth Bollom won the wreath, and this year he donated it back to the lodge. Thank you Ken! The officers for 2013 will be as follows: President Frances Bollom, Vice President William E. Bollom, Secretary and Entertainment chairman Cecelia Piwetz, and Correspondent Frances Bollom. Members decided to take up a collection for the Goodfellows. President Howard J. Wolfe will retire in July, 2013. We will send him a gift. The location of our Christmas party was very good. Our attendance was the best we’ve had in some time. Cecilia reserved the hall for our 2013 Christmas party scheduled March 2013

Wisconsin/Upper Michigan Wisconsin State Meeting Mary Cenefelt, Correspondent District Director Brenda Osterman installing the new state officers (l-r) Vice President Tom Klika, Secretary/Treasurer Barbara Schneider, and President Jo Ann Parks.

25

F R AT E R N A L F O C U S Level I and Level II Award winners for 2011 representing their lodges.

Dinner/Dance District Meeting

Several of our lodge members participated in serving refreshments at the Czech Film Festival on January 13. We helped work the wfla bike giveaway and bake at the Sokol Pork/Jaternice dinner February 10 at the Norway House. Fran Marlenga drew out the winning name, Amber Turdo, age 7. Amber Turdo, age 7 wins the bicycle drawing at the Sokol Milwaukee Pork Jaternice dinner.

Dorothy Schmoock, District Secretary

Members met on January 27 at Gills in Whitelaw, WI. A family style dinner was served. Chairperson Rudy Kolarik opened our meeting. Our dinner/dance will be held at Gills Bar & Grill in Whitelaw, WI on April 21. A family style dinner will be held at 1:20 p.m. We will have each lodge bring four, $5 gifts. Our entertainment is Ron Gillis. Something new this year for young and seniors will be a magician, The Great Gizmo. He’s very entertaining. Parents, bring your children and grandparents, bring your grandchildren. Members are welcome to bring guests. We have a lot of 50 and 75-year members. Each lodge should bring them for the dinner and entertainment. Free beverages will be on hand. Let’s have a large turnout. The District Meeting will be held at Riendl’s in Menchalville, WI on May 5 with No. 221 hosting. Plan on attending, and we will have more information on this at a later date. The State Convention will be October 19-20 at the Best Western in Menominee, WI. The host lodge will be No. 73, Menominee. We wish to see you all at these wonderful events. Milwaukee No. 48, Milwaukee, WI Geraldine Axtell, Correspondent

The January 14 meeting was called to order by President Fran Marlenga at Benny’s Family Restaurant. A moment of silence was held for departed members Marian Woksinski and Richard Wolff. Darinka Kohl and Fran Marlenga have volunteered to be on the audit committee. We will make a monetary donation to the upcoming National Sokol Sports Festival (Slet) to be held in Milwaukee in June 2013. We plan to donate to the Slovak Tatra Dancers for purchasing embroidered folk costumes for their group. We will also be serving refreshments at the Sokol Film Festival at the Norway House. The February 11 meeting was called to order by President Fran Marlenga at Benny’s. A moment of silence was held for departed members Virginia Rohde and Lois Jones. 26

The election of officers was held as follows: President Fran Marlenga, Vice President Anna Trochta, Secretary/ Correspondent Jarka Axtell, and Treasurer Vera Frazier. A discussion was held regarding the District Meeting on April 7 at Grobschmidt Senior Center. Lodge No. 48 will provide dinner, Racine No. 357 the dessert, and Anna Trochta will call Pulaski Hall for information. The annual Pizza party for Sokol Milwaukee gymnasts will be held on May 7. Verna Laska No. 108, Denmark, WI Mary Cenefelt, Correspondent

The meeting opened at 7:30 p.m. on February 6. Thank-you notes were received from the Denmark Community Cupboard and the Ronald McDonald House for the many can tabs we donated and monetary food donations from the lodge Christmas party. Randy Kolarik gave a report on the State Meeting. We received many compliments on the well-organized State Meeting from delegates all around the state. Joe Pelishek received the Lodge Referral Program Award. The YELL! group priced Christmas items at St. Vincent de Paul in November. They also gave a report of their planned activities for the 2013 year. Rudy Kolarik reported that he has Quik Trip gift cards for sale as a fundraiser. The officers for 2013 are as follows: President Mike Steinberger, Vice President Jodi Kolarik, Secretary Judy Klika, Treasurer Mary Kvitek, and Correspondent Liz Kolarik. Tom Klika was nominated to the Audit Committee. The inter-lodge bowling for Big Brothers Big Sisters will be March 17 at Suster’s Bowling in Denmark at noon. There will be a “Dutch treat” dinner to follow. The District Dinner/Dance will be April 21 at Gill’s in Whitelaw at noon. The cost is $12.50. There will be music by Ron Gillis and for the young will be Gizmo the Magician. Each lodge is to bring $20 worth of prizes. May 5 will be the March 2013

F R AT E R N A L F O C U S District Meeting at Reindel’s in Menchalville at noon. JOIN HANDS DAY is tentatively set for May 11 at the Maribel Caves. New members are Valerie Leiterman, Mason Collins, Kylie Guns, and Brayden Bull. The prize was won by Eloise Wotruba. Lunch was served and members enjoyed playing cards. Bratri Novych Hradu No. 141, Cadott, WI Cade Sikora, Correspondent

We wish a happy birthday to Bessie Stanek, secretary for over 50 years. Bessie celebrated her 100th birthday in January! We all wish you continued good health and happiness! See member in the news on page 9. The annual Christmas party was held January 17 at Alberta May’s Restaurant followed by a lodge meeting. The lodge is preparing a Bingo Night at the hall and preparing for Long Live the Squeeze Box in May. Our next meeting is March 28 at 5 p.m. at Cadott Color Center. Check out No. 141 at www.wiuplodges.com. Also online is the Bohemian Hall Amateur Theatre. You can find them by searching “The Bohemian Hall Amateur Theatre” on Facebook. “Like” our page for pictures, videos, and updates on the BHAT!

St. Jude’s Ranch. Secretary Wieloch presented a Referral certificate to Gladys Ruha for her referrals. Scholarships to Mosinee High School were discussed. The application wording was changed to read: Any field of study at a 2 or 4-year accredited institution. The Secretary will meet with school officials to correct the form. Our schedule for the regular meetings, the picnic for 50 and 75-year members, and the Christmas party were set. Members brought in can tabs, newspapers, and milk caps for collections. Bingo will be played at Vanderwall’s in March. The books were audited and the financial form was completed. Valentine treats were made by Gladys Ruha and were handed out by 3-year old Amanda Haase. After a delicious lunch served by Arnie Ruha, Happy Birthday was sung and cake and ice cream were served for Agnes Mikes’ 87th birthday. Member Amanda Haase handing out Valentine treats to members at the meeting.

RIP No. 144, Mosinee, WI Janice Wieloch, Secretary

Our meeting was held on February 3 at Marcell Wieloch’s home and hosted by Arnie Ruha. A moment of silence was held for Clifford Vincent and Edward Anderle. Our sympathy goes out to their families. Thank-you notes were read from Circle of Joy Food Pantry, Hannah Center, Vandersalls CBRF Home, Mead Wildlife Refuge Center, WI/Upper MI Scholarship Fund, and Joseph Mikes. Members bringing can tabs and newspapers to the meeting.

Members reported delivering gift baskets to members in a nursing home and shut-in. The secretary reported that Lodge Award forms had been received by the Home Office. She also reported that the honorary certificate was sent to Irene Draeger. Cancelled stamps were taken to Dun Loring, VA, and card fronts to March 2013

Our next meeting will be April 7 at Marcell Wieloch’s home and Janice Wieloch will host. Adams No. 193, Adams, WI Cleo Hendricksen, Correspondent

A moment of silence was held for departed 75-year member Margaret Hayna. Our sympathies go out to the family. Thank-you letters were received from the Adams County Historical Society, The Family Center, Adams County Angel Tree Program, Adams County Food Pantry, Moundview Memorial Partners, and Janitor Cheryl Chetney for the donations given in 2012. Welcome to new members Kenley and Patricia Snyder. We hope you will come join us at our meetings in the future. A big thank-you was given to our former Treasurer, Rose Hendricksen, for all her years of dedication to the lodge. Our new Treasurer is Fred Murray. Family Center items of soaps, lotions, shampoos, and calendars were brought to donate. Campbell’s soup labels, Box Tops for Education, milk covers, and can tabs for the Ronald McDonald House were also brought in. The trustees audited the treasurer’s book and completed the financial statement to be mailed into the Home Office. Our February 10 meeting was held at the Big Flats Town Hall. Lunch was served with a special presentation of 75-year pins to our dedicated members Rose Hendricksen and Ella 27

F R AT E R N A L F O C U S Petersen; congratulations! Cake was enjoyed and pictures were taken. Happy birthday wishes to Mildred Solchenberger on turning 94-years-old on January 15. Members worked and donated to the Red Cross Blood drive on February 18. A monetary donation was also made to the Red Cross A-F Blood Drive to help defray kitchen expenses. We made a donation to the State Scholarship Fund. Family Crisis items were brought in and Valentine cards were exchanged. Our next meeting is April 14 at Big Flats Town Hall. We’ll have a potluck before the meeting. Food pantry and Family Crisis items were brought. We played bingo after the meeting. Valentine cards were exchanged.

Members will host the Aspirus Pleasant View Nursing homes monthly birthday party on April 11 and there will be a Polka band for music. Since 1972, our lodge has been placing Phillips High School valedictorian and salutatorian names on the plaque on display at the school. We will be purchasing another plaque due to the fact there is no longer room on the first one purchased. Welcome new members Emmett and Noah Zellinger, sons of Steve and Kelsi Zellinger.

Ratolest Wisconsin No. 196, Black River Falls, WI Barb McNulty

Busy! Busy! Busy! Aren’t we all! Time to think ahead to Easter already. On Saturday March 30, the Bunny Brunch hosted by the BRMH will be in full swing. Our lodge will be doing the bike sign-up during this time. We will not have a meeting yet, so please call 715-284-4570 and let me know where you can volunteer for bike sign-up or clean-up. Our usual volunteers are not available for this year and one person cannot do it by themselves. Members and non-members who participated in the snowmobile trip.

Mark and Barb McNulty hosted a snowmobile ride on February 2. We had two members and three non-members venture out for a 110-mile trip. Sorry if you didn’t get a call, I don’t know all members who have snowmobiles. Nadeje Slovanu No. 236, Phillips, WI Therese Trojak, Correspondent

Members met February 10 at the Zellinger home. A thank-you note was read from Flambeau Home and Health and Hospice. A verbal thank-you was given from Friends of Fred Smith for the donations they received. District 2 Director, Brenda Osterman, sent a letter with many interesting points. Laddie Zellinger disbursed sheets with many suggestions to celebrate our Centennial in 2014. We will discuss plans at future meeting. 28

All our summer projects were brought up and discussed, as well as the District Meeting and the WI/Upper State Meeting. February donations were made to Aspirus Regency Adult Day Care for entertainment and to the Price County Antique Association LTD. Manitowoc Jr. No. 360, Manitowoc, WI Cathy Groelle, Correspondent

Members met on January 12 at the American Legion for our first meeting of the year. We elected new officers for 2013 as follows: President Carol Jebavy, Vice President Elaine Naidl, Secretary/Correspondent Cathy Groelle, Membership Coordinator Elaine Naidl, Treasurer Lumir Jebavy, Guide Marvin Kliment, and Guard Vic Naidl. We set up our meeting schedule for the New Year as follows: April 13, June 8, July 13, August 10, September 4, and November 9. On February 7, Carol Jebavy, Cathy Groelle, and Elaine Naidl audited the books from last year and worked on the annual report for the Home Office. Members discussed our activities for the upcoming year. For youth projects, we decided to do blankets again for Project Linus and the Soap Box Derby. We will be doing JOIN HANDS DAY in conjunction with the youth from Barb Schneider’s church in Oshkosh. We will feed the homeless and needy in Oshkosh. Also, we decided to give puzzles and coupons to the vets, participate in Relay for Life, collect can tabs, give to the animal shelter, bake cookies for the homeless, pop popcorn for the people in the rehab center in Manitowoc, donate prizes for the District Rally and the State Convention, donate to the Czech Cholairs, and plant flowers for the neglected Vets in the local cemeteries. We will discuss other projects again when we meet in March. March 2013

F R AT E R N A L F O C U S Kewaunee No. 365, Kewaunee, WI Carolyn Kinstetter, Correspondent

Members met January 15 for lunch at Village Kitchen in Members met January 15 for lunch at Village Kitchen in Casco. Magdalene Opicka hosted the meeting at her home. Casco. Magdalene Opicka hosted the meeting at her home. The treasurer’s books were audited and balanced; good job The treasurer’s books were audited and balanced; good job Rita. Rita. Two thank-you notes were received from Life Line and a Two thank-you notes were received from Life Line and a fruit basket to Compass Home. fruit basket to Compass Home. We welcome one new member, Lillyann Aude. We hope We welcome one new member, Lillyann Aude. We hope to see you at our meetings and events. to see you at our meetings and events. Mark your calendar for the picnic on July 14. Mark your calendar for the picnic on July 14. All officers were re-elected for another year. Thank you All officers were re-elected for another year. Thank you Magdalene for all the work you did on the awards. Magdalene for all the work you did on the awards. Pilsen No. 391, Luxemburg, WI Judith Kraynik, Correspondent

Members met at the China Buffet in Green Bay, WI on Members met at the China Buffet in Green Bay, WI on February 8 for a meeting and luncheon. February 8 for a meeting and luncheon. We held an election of officers with the following results: We held an election of officers with the following results: President Jan Jan Janowski, Janowski, Vice Vice President President Marion Marion Mleziva, Mleziva, President Secretary Pete Janowski, Treasurer Mary Jo Shefchik, and Secretary Pete Janowski, Treasurer Mary Jo Shefchik, and Correspondent Judy Kraynik. Correspondent Judy Kraynik. Handouts of our District 2 membership rally to be held Handouts of our District 2 membership rally to be held at Gill’s Hall in Whitelaw, WI on April 21 were given out at Gill’s Hall in Whitelaw, WI on April 21 were given out to members in attendance. to members in attendance. was discussion discussion about about our our upcoming upcoming 75th lodge lodge There There was anniversary celebration, to be held sometime this year. We anniversary celebration, to be held sometime this year. We discussed honoring our 50-year members at that time. More discussed honoring our 50-year members at that time. More information will be coming later. information will be coming later. Fifty-four valentines were made for the veterans at the King Fifty-four valentines were made for the veterans at the King Veteran’s Home in Tomah, WI by three of our members – Veteran’s Home in Tomah, WI by three of our members – Jan and Pete Janowski, Mary Jo Shefchik, and two of her Jan and Pete Janowski, Mary Jo Shefchik, and two of her granddaughters. Plans are in in the the making making for for the the JOIN JOIN HANDS HANDS DAY DAY Plans are roadside pickup on May 5. roadside pickup on May 5. City Point No. 408, City Point, WI

Joan Rapp, Correspondent

Our meeting was held at the Community Center in City Our meeting was held at the Community Center in City Point, WI. WI. We We had had aa great great potluck potluck luncheon luncheon before before the the Point, meeting. meeting. discussed the the coming coming Easter Easter event event for for the the Members Members discussed children and other business. children and other business. We closed our meeting and played bingo. We closed our meeting and played bingo.

Let reading help your child thrive What’s the single most important thing parents can do to help their children succeed in life? Encourage them to read. Reading is a skill essential in all areas of achievement. Here are a few tips from the U.S. Department of Education’s website: • Read aloud to your children often. Start reading to your children when they are babies. As they grow older, encourage them to ask questions and to talk about the story. Ask them to predict what will come next. • Encourage your children to read on their own. Children who spend at least 30 minutes a day reading for fun develop the skills to be better readers and students. • Set aside quiet time for family reading. Some families enjoy reading aloud to each other, with each family member choosing a book, story, poem, or article to read to the others. • Visit the library often. Begin making weekly trips to the library when your child is very young. See that your child gets his own library card as soon as possible. • Get help for your children if they have a reading problem. Ask teachers about special services, such as after-school or summer reading programs. Also ask teachers or your local librarian for names of community organizations and local literacy volunteer groups that offer tutoring services.

In Memoriam They are are not not gone gone who who pass pass They beyond the the clasp clasp of of hand, hand, out out from from the the strong strong embrace embrace beyond They are but come so close we need not grope with hands They are but come so close we need not grope with hands Nor look to see, nor try to catch Nor look to see, nor try to catch the sound sound of of feet, feet, the They have have put put off off their their shoes, shoes, They softly to walk by day softly to walk by day Within our our thoughts, thoughts, to to tread tread at at Within night our dream-led paths night our dream-led paths Of sleep sleep Of Rose Prochaska Prochaska Rose

No. 121, 121, Caldwell, Caldwell, KS KS No.

Rose Prochaska Prochaska was was born born Sister Sister Rose September 6, 1918 in Caldwell, September 6, 1918 in Caldwell, KS to to Charlie Charlie and and Jennie Jennie (Subera) (Subera) KS Krenek and and died died January January 27, 27, 2013. 2013. Krenek Funeral services were held February Funeral services were held February 1, with interment at Czechoslovakian 1, with interment at Czechoslovakian Cemetery. Cemetery. Rose married August Vernon 8,Prochaska Rose married Vernon Prochaska 1938 in August 8, 1938 in Wellington, KS. She was a 50-year member. Wellington, KS. She was a 50-year member. include sons, sons, Ron Ron (Caren) (Caren) of of Oxford, Oxford, Paul Paul Survivors Survivors include (Linda) Prochaska of Caldwell, Dean (Susan) Prochaska of (Linda) Prochaska of Caldwell, Dean (Susan) Prochaska of Leesburg, VA, VA, Dan Dan (Cathie) (Cathie) Prochaska Prochaska of of Naperville, Naperville, IL; IL; Leesburg, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Vlasta Albert, Correspondent Vlasta Albert, Correspondent

2013 March 2013

29

IN MEMORIAM Beverly Joyce Hoium No. 44, Hayward, MN

Sister Beverly Hoium was born September 1, 1929 in Albert Lea, MN to Clifford and Hazel (Nelson) Parks and died January 13, 2013. Funeral services were held January 19. Beverly married Richard Hoium July 3, 1948. Survivors include husband Richard Hoium; daughter, Nancy (Vince) Hajek of Glenville; son, Craig (Jan) Hoium of Albert Lea; sisters, Phyllis Field of Encinitas, CA, Geraldine Peterson of Arden Hills, MN, and LaVonne Ranum of Minneapolis, MN; grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Marie Krikava, Secretary

Loras A. Dvorak No. 146, Irving, IA

Sister Loras Dvorak was born February 26, 1949 in Belle Plaine, IA to Charles and Mayme (Blaha) Dvorak and died November 28, 2012 in Brooklyn, IA. Funeral services were held December 1, 2012, with interment at National Cemetery in Vining. Loras was a 50-year member. Survivors include brother, Gary Dvorak of Belle Plaine; sisters, Vickie Dvorak of North Liberty, Char (Chuck) Posekany, Bev (Pat) Douglas, Beckie (Jim) Clementi, and Connie (Craig) Hall, all of Brooklyn; 9 nieces and nephews, 14 great-nieces and nephews, and two great great-nieces. Frances “Fran” L. Dubishar No. 400, Swisher, IA

Sister Frances Dubishar was born February 24, 1926 in Cedar Rapids, IA to Josef and Frantiska (Kubovec) Habota and died January 18, 2013. Funeral services were held January 25, with interment at Czech National Cemetery. Frances married Vernon Dubishar April 26, 1949 in Cedar Rapids. She was a 75-year member. Survivors include daughters, Jackie Mundorf and Kathy (Joe Fencl) Mackey both of Swisher; son, Dan (Susan) Dubishar of Swisher; 6 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren. Mary Ann Siems, President

30

Shirley Ann Runyan

No. 39, Fort Dodge, IA

Sister Shirley Runyan was born November 15, 1934 in Boone, IA to Arthur and Myrtle (Loveless) Runyan and died January 13, 2013. Funeral services were held January 17, with interment at Boone Memorial Gardens. Survivors include brothers, Henry (Nancy) Runyan of Marion, John (Kathleen) Runyan, and Roy (Jodi) Runyan both of Urbandale; sisters, Louise Saltzman of Council Bluffs and Margaret (Lionel) Williams of Peoria, AZ; nieces and nephews. LaVonne Halligan, Secretary

Lois J. Ball

No. 39, Fort Dodge, IA

Sister Lois Ball was born March 1, 1930 in Fort Dod ge, I A to Henry and Julia ( Urba n) Fi a l a and died January 24, 2013. Funeral services were held January 28, with interment at Callender Cemetery. Lois married Harold Ball. She was a 75-year member. Survivors include children, Howard (Karen) Ball, Corky (Alice) Toby both of Moorland, Diane (Cally) Morgan of Peoria, IL, Joanne (Bill) Rundlett of Des Moines, and Brian (Tammy) Ball of Fort Dodge; sister, Delores Kruse of Callender; 10 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren. LaVonne Halligan, Secretary

Gladys G. Kramar No. 71, Utica, SD

Sister Gladys K ramar was born February 6, 1925 in Rush Springs, OK to Thomas and Nellie (Owen) Taylor and died January 30, 2013 in Tyndall. Funeral services were held February 2, with interment at Springfield Cemetery.

Gladys married Frank Kramar May 31, 1956. She was a 50-year member. Gladys served as secretary of her lodge for many years and was the SD Fraternalist of the Year in 1990. Survivors include daughters, Cheryl Sensing of Springfield, Lori (Roger) DeJong of Springfield, and Blanche (Dennis) DeJong of Avon; 10 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Blanche DeJong, Daughter

Lucille V. “Lu” Connell No. 45, Omaha, NE

Sister Lucille Connell was born January 18, 1923 and died January 14, 2013 in Omaha, NE. Lucille was a 75-year member. Survivors include sons, Roger Cote, Dave Cote, and Tom Cote all of Omaha, Larry Cote of Phoenix, AZ, James Cote of Colorado Springs, CO, Russell Cote of Marysville, CA, Paul Cote of Denver, CO, and Mike Cote of Visalia, CA; daughters, Nancy Green of Papillion, NE, Patricia Cote and Barbara Boyer both of Omaha; many grandchildren and great grandchildren. Jerri Underwood, Correspondent

Robert “Bob” Wittbrodt No. 247, Flint, MI

Brother Robert Wittbrodt was born March 27, 1930 in Flint, MI to Benjamin and Catherine (Wierzbinski) Wittbrodt and died December 2, 2012 in Flint. Funeral services were held December 6, with interment at New Calvary Catholic Cemetery. Robert married Marjorie Balun September 15, 1956 in Flushing, MI. He was a veteran of the U.S. Marines Corps. Survivors include children, Barbara (Todd) Ackley of Ann Arbor, Michael Wittbrodt of New York, David (Holly) Wittbrodt of Blufton, IN, Steven (Sandia) Wittbrodt of San Francisco, CA; sisters, Maxine Wittbrodt and Judith Wittbrodt both of Suttons Bay; and 2 grandchildren. Joan Kolder, past secretary

March 2013

IN MEMORIAM Frank Duba

No. 389, Western, NE

Brother Frank Duba was born October 22, 1921 in Western, NE to Joseph and Anna (Zoubek) Duba and died February 8, 2013 in Lincoln, NE. Frank married LaVern Ulcek June 7, 1950 in Wilber, NE. He was a 50-year member and a member of the U.S. Army 382 Infantry. Survivors include wife, LaVern of Wilber; son, Vernon Duba of Iowa City, IA; daughters, Debra (Dennis) Pallai and Rebecca (Charles) McKay both of Western; brother, Joe (Sylvia) Duba of Wilber; sisters, Rose Boden of Seward and Mildred Behrens of Crete; and 7 grandchildren. Joan Kotas, Secretary

Melvin G. Rasmussen Lodge No. 218, Angus, MN

Brother Melvin Rasmussen was born January 15, 1931 in Plummer, MN to Louis and Maude Rasmussen and died February 5, 2013. Funeral services were held February 9, with interment at First Evanger Lutheran Cemetery. Melvin married Marlys Tradewell January 19, 1957 and later married Janina Arvanitis August 2000. He served 20-years in the U.S. Army. Sur vivors include wife, Ja nina Arvanitis of Fargo, ND; sons, Bill (Meloni) Rasmussen of Crookston, R a ndy (Ma rga ret) R a smussen of Thief River Falls, and Don (Donna) Rasmussen of Thornton, CO; daughter, Denise Rasmussen of Gary; and step son, Andy Arvanitis of AZ; 11 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.

Conrad Zak, Secretary

March 2013

CLAIMS FOR JANUARY 2013 Name Place of Death

Arnold, Richard F............ Axtell, Rose M................. Bakalik, Matilda.............. Castro, Adolph................. Connett, Vera M.............. Dismuke, Charlene.......... Dlabaj, Evelyn.................. Dvorak, Loras A............... Emerson Jr, Charles R...... Fahey, Mary Ann............. Fisher , Alice F................. Funfar, Willie F............... Gates, Bernice J................ Gibney, Lauren T............. Hach, Wilbert M............. Hannah, Joann................ Hayna, Margaret.............. Horak, Bennie F.............. Kalina, Willis................... Kliment, Mary L.............. Konicek, William A......... Korsa, Josine L................. Krajnik, Ernest................. La Pitz Sr, James H.......... Lasswell, Dwayne P......... Lenart, Donna M............. Machacek, Karen S.......... Matousek, George............ Merrill, Emma H............. Miller, Vlasta................... Mostek, Joseph................. Netolicky, Jerry R............ Ortiz, Benjamin J............ Oxley, Georgia................. Pashina, Beverly J............. Patak, Frank J.................. Pechacek, Dennis A......... Petersen, Cathy S............. Petrzelka, Klara................ Reese, Michael L.............. Rohacek, Michael J.......... Rohde, Virginia................ Roland, Viola M.............. Rott, Maynard J............... Russell, Albert E.............. Schmitt, Ruth.................. Sebranek, Helen R........... Slaney, Agnes................... Stehlik, Nancy L.............. Sternberg, Jesse H............ Topinka, Joseph J............. Trenda, Clarence.............. Trinka, Wayne A.............. Vincent, Clifford L.......... Vronch, Brenda G............ White, Luther O.............. Williams, Genevia A........ Zemba, Rose M...............

Lodge No.

Gibson, WI 108 Alexandria, MN 2 Burr Ridge, IL 330 Cedar Rapids, IA 262 Lincoln, NE 426 Delhi, IA 484 Ennis, TX 401 Brooklyn, IA 146 Cedar Rapids, IA 423 Salisbury, NC 330 Blairstown, IA 262 Nora Springs, IA 44 Two Rivers, WI 142 Cedar Rapids, IA 262 Waterloo, IA 104 Manitowoc, WI 142 Mundelein, IL 193 Topeka, KS 128 Wilber, NE 389 St Louis, MO 20 Clutier, IA 104 Crystal Lake, IA 243 Two Rivers, WI 20 Edina, MN 34 Rockford, IL 484 Columbia Station, OH 280 Cedar Rapids, IA 262 Owosso, MI 242 Bennington Twsp, MI 242 Tyndall, SD 71 Osage, IA 243 Cedar Rapids, IA 262 Cedar Rapids, IA 500 Albert Lea, MN 38 Edina, MN 11 Ennis, TX 402 Lake Elmo, MN 127 Davenport, IA 201 Cicero, IL 330 Albert Lea, MN 44 New Chester, WI 330 Slinger, WI 48 Timken, KS 95 Concordia, KS 19 Grand Island, NE 152 Manitowoc, WI 365 La Crosse, WI 32 Madison, WI 32 Roseville, MI 242 Cedar Rapids, IA 262 Marshalltown, IA 104 Park River, ND 106 Mesa, AZ 377 Gypsum, CO 144 Bessemer Twsp, MI 201 Pineville, LA 260 Walker, IA 500 Niceville, FL 73

Became Member

Date of Death

2007 12/03/12 1999 12/19/12 1937 05/19/12 2000 12/04/12 2011 01/02/13 2003 11/04/12 1969 11/22/12 1949 11/28/12 1988 12/20/12 1949 12/27/12 2010 01/10/13 1931 10/24/12 1999 01/05/13 1997 02/13/12 1930 11/16/12 1977 11/12/12 1937 12/15/12 1936 11/27/12 1929 12/20/12 1949 10/01/12 1943 11/28/12 1983 11/22/12 2001 01/03/13 1986 11/18/12 2001 11/26/12 1942 08/05/12 1952 01/06/13 1935 12/14/12 1986 12/17/12 1941 12/08/12 1935 01/17/13 1985 06/01/12 1989 10/30/12 1933 10/20/12 1963 12/27/12 1957 12/05/12 1957 12/17/12 2001 10/08/12 1938 12/17/12 1982 11/06/12 1965 12/30/12 1951 12/14/12 1948 07/02/12 1931 12/16/12 2009 02/01/12 1936 11/29/12 1968 01/14/13 1935 08/27/12 1968 09/16/12 1995 11/20/12 1946 11/15/12 1927 11/26/12 1939 10/29/12 1992 12/09/12 1996 01/18/13 2010 12/14/12 1977 11/30/12 1935 12/16/12 31

These monthly rates are based on super preferred non-tobacco class.

10 Year Term Life Insurance Male Age 30 40 50 Female Age 30 40 50

100,000 $11.35 $13.67 $22.70

250,000 $18.49 $23.65 $44.72

500,000 $30.53 $40.85 $82.99

100,000 $10.49 $12.64 $19.69

250,000 $16.34 $21.29 $37.63

500,000 $26.23 $36.12 $68.80

Our Term Life insurance provides insurance for 10, 20 and 30 year term periods. Premiums for term certificates are generally lower than those of permanent insurance and can provide a greater death benefit, and there is an option to convert* within contract guidelines to permanent insurance without proof of insurability.

20 Year Term Life Insurance Male Age 30 40 50 Female Age 30 40 50

100,000 $12.13 $16.68 $31.73

250,000 $20.00 $30.96 $67.73

500,000 $33.54 $55.47 $129.00

100,000 $10.84 $14.96 $26.23

250,000 $17.20 $27.52 $55.47

500,000 $27.95 $48.59 $104.49

30 Year Term Life Insurance Male Age 30 40 50 Female Age 30 40 50

100,000 $15.05 $23.82 $47.39

250,000 $26.02 $44.29 $95.25

500,000 $45.58 $82.13 $184.04

100,000 $13.50 $20.98 $39.39

250,000 $22.36 $38.06 $74.82

500,000 $38.27 $69.66 $143.19

* see specific contract for conversion details

Premiums are guaranteed for the term period, then increase annually thereafter. Premiums above are examples only and may vary based on your personal health history and underwriting guidelines.