Featured Inside: New 50 & 75-Year Members - Western Fraternal ...

Vol. 116, No. 01 • Established 1897 • January 15, 2013
HAPPY
New Year!
Featured Inside:
New 50 & 75-Year Members

Management Team
Board of Directors
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
Mon. - Thurs., 7:45 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. (CST)
Friday, 7:45 a.m. - 1:15 p.m. (CST)
Howard J. Wolfe, President
e-mail: jwolfe@wflains.org
Craig Van Dyke
Senior Vice President and Treasurer
e-mail: cvdyke@wflains.org
Donald Nieland
Vice President of Information Technology and
Secretary
e-mail: dnieland@wflains.org
Ann Day Freeman, Vice President and Chief
Underwriter
e-mail: aday@wflains.org
Jack Minder, Controller
e-mail: jminder@wflains.org
Daniel Anderegg, Manager of Sales and Marketing
e-mail: Danderegg@wflains.org
Howard J. Wolfe
120 N 19th Ave., Hiawatha, IA 52233
District 1, Terry Hynek
2375 County Rd. Q, Wilber, NE 68465
(402) 821-3167 • terryhynek@hotmail.com
District 2, Brenda Osterman
18803 Ibsen Rd, Sparta, WI 54656
(608) 487-2655 • brendaosterman@hotmail.com
District 3, Donald R. Krall
2324 25th St. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404
(319) 365-8873 • dkrall@imonmail.com
District 4, Duane J. Jirik
Chairman of the Board
1006 3rd St. NE, New Prague, MN 56071
(952) 758-4885 • dajirik@bevcomm.net
District 5, Mary Bradley
200 W. Cass St., St. Johns, MI 48879
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 • bradleymevans@yahoo.com
FraternalHerald
Official Organization of
Western Fraternal Life Association.
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 Gove
Publication Coordinators
Darcy Kelley • Kristi Kidd
National Scholarship
Western Fraternal Life Association is pleased to announce 25 National
Scholarships for its eligible members. Applications can be found on our
website: www.wflains.org or by calling 1-877-935-2467.
Scholarships include the following: One Four-year Academic Scholarship, $1,000
per year for a total of $4,000 • Two $1,000 Scholarships to either Community
College or Vocational/Trade School • One Community Involvement Scholarship,
$1,000 • One Non-Traditional Student Scholarship, $1,000.
Eligibility Requirements
•
to the application deadline.
• Members are eligible to win a four-year scholarship only once.
•
2.0 or C average each year.
• Members who receive a $1,000 scholarship are eligible to win the scholarship
twice for a total of $2,000. Members must apply each year.
• Applicant must be accepted or attending as a full-time student at a College/
University or Vocational/Technical Institution for an entire school year. A
•
wfla National Scholarship.
How to Apply:
than March 1: A completed scholarship application form with essay attachment,
High school transcripts, SAT and/or ACT test scores, acceptance letter from a college/university
or vocational/technical school, if currently not attending, College/
university or vocational/technical school transcripts, if currently attending.
For regulations and the award process check our website at
Application and all materials are due: March 1, 2013
Send application and additional materials to:
WFLA, 1900 First Avenue NE., Cedar Rapids, IA 52402.
Features
............................. 2
...............3
2013 50/75-Year Members ................ 4-7
Back in Time .......................................... 7
Lodge Anniversaries ................................7
Lodge Award/Projects Form ...................8
Members in the News ...................................9
Kelsey's Korner ...............................................11
Youth in the News .........................................11
Children’s International Art Exhibit .......15
Departments
Kitchen Talk ......................................... 10
Producers Page ................................... 12
Financial Planning ............................... 13
Calendar .............................................. 14
Spotlight .............................................. 15
Referral Update ................................... 15
Fraternal Focus ..............................16-33
In Memoriam .................................33-34
November Claims ................................ 35
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 infor -
mation through our Member
Access at: www.wflains.org
2 January 2013

President Howard J. Wolfe
Annual Letter To The Members
I want to extend a Happy New Year’s greeting to all of you from the Home Office.
Please read on page 8 the announcement of the Lodge Award program for 2013. The Board of Directors has increased the number
of awards by adding a new award called the ‘Outstanding Leadership Award.’ We are placing an emphasis on getting younger
members active in the Association. At the 27 th National Convention, a Bylaw was passed that allows each lodge an additional
delegate, if that delegate is 40 or younger at the time of the election. The new ‘Outstanding Lodge Award,’ with the requirement
of the lodge to have an active YELL! group, will be a major step forward in getting younger members involved in the Association
and an opportunity for your lodge to elect another, younger delegate. I challenge all lodges to try to win this new ‘Outstanding
Lodge Award’ for the year 2013; recruiting youth is crucial to carrying on the good works of the Association.
I wish to take this opportunity to congratulate Louise Weber, the 2012 Fraternalist of the Year. Louise has been the cornerstone
of her lodge for many years. Congratulations to Louise for this most deserving honor.
In this issue of the Fraternal Herald, we are recognizing all those members who will be celebrating their 75 th and 50 th year anniversary
with wfla in 2013. Please take the opportunity to read these names and congratulate those members you know for their
long commitment to the Association.
The September 30, 2012 quarterly statement reflected assets of the Association of $262,160,188. This is an increase of $11,215,402
over the 2011 year-end. The quarterly statement also reflects a gain from operations of $849,502 with an addition to surplus of
$131,585. As you know interest rates continue to be very low and this presents a challenge to the Association. We are very pleased
to show the positive results that we do as of September 30 th , and are thankful for the Association’s continued financial strength.
You will be able to read all the final reports from the Administration, Investment, and Sales and Marketing departments in
future issues of the Fraternal Herald.
As you all know by now, I am retiring on July 1 st of this year. On the 22 nd day of this month, I will have completed 45 years at
wfla. I served five years in the Data Processing Department, six years as Office Manager, 28 years as Secretary, and six years as
President. I was challenged by each and every position that I held, but each position had its own rewards. Any successes that
I’ve had with the Association during my tenure could not have happened without the dedication of the wfla members, Board of
Directors, agents, and Home Office staff. I have seen many changes in our Association throughout the years. We changed our
name in 1971 and had major changes to our governance three times; 1971, 1979, and 2007. I have served under four Presidents.
I could go on, but the one thing that has never changed is the love wfla members have for the Association, one which I share. I
have been blessed to have had the opportunity to meet so many of you and to serve wfla.
As I leave wfla, I know the Association will be in good hands with the present Board of Directors, the Management Team, the
Home Office staff, and all the agents. And through their efforts, I am confident that the Association will continue to grow and
prosper long into the future.
I take this opportunity to thank each one of you for the hospitality and the friendship that you have shown my wife, Judy, and
I in our travels for the Association.
Fraternally yours,
Howard J. Wolfe
January 2013 3

Robert Janovsky ........................2
Edward Hlavaty .........................3
Marvin Hlavaty ..........................3
Bruce Stipek ..............................3
Lester Mikulecky .......................7
Marcine Adams .........................9
Dennis Cippera ..........................9
Janice Egr...................................9
Edward Hines ............................9
Keith Racek ................................9
Raymond Stranik .......................9
Florence Kral ...........................11
Kenneth Shaur .........................11
Emma Davidson ......................13
Dorothy Ditch ..........................13
Joan Seeber .............................13
George Shakespeare ...............13
Lottie Volesky ..........................13
Jane Brault ..............................20
Paul Jirikovec ...........................20
James Peroutka .......................20
Vivian Petrie ............................20
Carolee Brinkman ...................22
Louis Shimanek .......................22
Anton Vanicek .........................22
Georgene Wene ......................22
Donald Silhacek .......................28
Carol Polacek ...........................29
Evelyn Erlandson .....................32
Richard Pacl .............................32
Rosie Anderson .......................38
Edward Zich .............................38
Lola Blazek ...............................39
Betty Craig ...............................39
Barbara Culver ........................39
Charlene Holes ........................39
Lillian Howard .........................39
Russell Jondle ..........................39
Doris Lines ...............................39
John Podlesak..........................39
Neal Stanek .............................39
Charles Wachal ........................39
Donald Chapek ........................44
Ann Marie Day ........................44
Roger Kral ................................44
Alice Sopcich ...........................45
Hermie Dawkins ......................46
Ervin Muzny ............................46
David Nemechek .....................46
Edward Nemechek ..................46
Lillie Saulsberry .......................46
Joseph Belohlavek ...................48
Theresa Benish ........................48
Bernice Brockdorf ...................48
Lois Jones ................................48
Dolores Ludwig .......................48
Marie Blackburn ......................54
Ronald Broz .............................54
Darlene Hegwald .....................54
Grace Kozak .............................54
Paul Novak ..............................54
Norma Penner .........................54
Leon Wanek ............................54
Mary Bartodej .........................67
La Verne Benda .......................67
Josephine Dolezal ...................67
Wilma Stransky .......................68
Adeline Frick ............................71
Helen Munkvold ......................71
Lumir Ruman ...........................71
Hattie Vellek ............................71
Congratulations to our members who have reached the milestone of
becoming a 50 or 75-year member with wfla in 2013. Each of our honored
members are entitled to receive a pin and may receive it by calling the Home
Office at 1-877-wflains (935-2467). We will be happy to send them out.
Many of the lodges will have a special ceremony or dinner to recognize these
members. Any officer in the lodge can request the pins to present to these
members as well. Thank you for your many years of dedicated service.
If you feel you should be a 50 or 75-year member, but have never seen
your name listed now or in previous years, please call the Home Office and
ask for the Fraternal Department. Originally, juveniles were not counted as
members until they reached adulthood. As a result, some certificates that
had already been converted to an adult status may indicate that you joined
the Association at age 18 and may not include the original juvenile start
date. We can check your file to determine the accurate issue date of your
first certificate.
75-Year Members
Mildred Hansen .......................73
Mildred Le Moyne ...................73
Joanne Malcolm ......................73
Margaret Radick ......................73
Harvey Chaloupka ................... 74
Joseph Chaloupka Jr ................74
Janice Crofton ......................... 74
Delma Freeouf ........................ 74
Laverne Johnson ..................... 74
Robert Kastanek ...................... 74
Stanley Kastanek ..................... 74
Marie Logan ............................ 74
William Thompson .................. 74
Loren Vosika ............................ 74
Marilyn Wolfe ......................... 74
Marvel Baxa ............................76
Charlotte Heida .......................81
Elaine Stone.............................81
Arlene Svanda .........................81
Leonard Thaler ........................81
Patricia Mc Guire.....................82
De Loris Jensby ........................84
Corinne Wilkinson ...................84
Helen Fencl ..............................85
Caroline Praska .......................85
Donald Zakostelecky ...............85
Mildred Mlenar .......................89
Elaine Schieffer......................100
Irene Elsberry ........................104
Rosella Feisel .........................104
Marcella Hach .......................104
Lester Havran ........................104
Edward Hosek .......................104
Betty Mc Neal ........................104
Arlene Merchant ...................104
Betty Paustian .......................104
Arlene Schmidt ......................104
Arlene Wrage ........................104
Ila Yung ..................................104
Betty Yuska ............................104
Ronald Cech ..........................107
Vernon Moravetz ..................107
Leonard Jirikovec ..................108
Betty Kryshak ........................108
Mary Clark .............................109
Laddie Hulinsky .....................112
Elsie Lajcak ............................126
Charles Turecek .....................128
Esther Wehner ......................128
Thomas Buresh .....................141
Peggy Krenz ...........................144
Edward Upah .........................146
Elizabeth Worrell ...................146
Robert Klesalek .....................147
Lenore Peterson ....................155
Mary Richter .........................155
Marianne Karl-Christensen ...162
John Preslicka ........................162
Dolores Hughes .....................181
William Kozacek ....................181
Frances Ramsdell ..................181
Janet Decko ...........................192
Lilly Ann Marusak ..................192
Rose Hendricksen .................193
Emil Kouba ............................193
Ella Petersen .........................193
William Yager ........................203
Mary Flink .............................222
Beatrice Schra .......................222
4 January 2013

Loretta Trumbo .....................222
Ralph Vachal ..........................222
James Horak ..........................225
Helen Slowinski .....................225
Victoria Wellington ...............225
Eleanore Delach ....................236
Mildred Kertz ........................236
Martha Epp ...........................237
Miloslav Ptacek .....................237
Elaine Eldridge .......................242
Frederick Wesley ...................242
Vincent Svoboda ...................253
Robert Fiala ...........................262
Edward Kuba Jr ......................262
Roseline Mc Mains ................262
Mildred Mitchell ...................262
Joe Valenta ............................262
Doreen Wright ......................262
Helen Salak ............................280
Marion Wieden .....................280
Stephie Kolek ........................289
Evelyn Bures ..........................296
Vlasta Jelinek .........................296
Georgina Kiscoan ..................296
Mildred Krejci ........................296
Benjamin Letak .....................296
Barbara Pyles ........................296
Richard Serpan ......................296
Marian Valentic .....................296
Gladys Velehradsky ...............296
Agnes Baur ............................330
Anna Bernardo ......................330
Florence Dunn .......................330
Dolores Falk ...........................330
Louis Havlat ...........................330
Charles Konecny ....................330
Joseph Kozeluh ......................330
Mary Kwilosz .........................330
Rose Marie Mrizek ................330
Caroline Petray ......................330
Klara Petrzelka ......................330
Ludmila Regal ........................330
Eleanor Robson .....................330
Marie Svoboda ......................330
Richard Voldrich ....................330
Thomas Biedron ....................332
Lucy Hurtis ............................332
Clara Shadick .........................332
Elmer Karas ...........................346
Helen Fahs .............................365
Mildred Fencil .......................365
Evelyn Pribyl ..........................365
Helen Anthony ......................377
Mary Couser ..........................377
Bernard Ach ..........................389
Howard Ach ...........................389
Erma Bors ..............................389
Norman Chab ........................389
Norman Cizek ........................389
Carol Fictum ..........................389
Camille Formanek .................389
Willis Kalina ...........................389
Adolph Kohout Jr ...................389
Melvin Krupicka ....................389
Robert Kunc ..........................389
Darlene Mead .......................389
Bertha Musilek ......................389
Elmer Nemec .........................389
Laverne Slepicka ...................389
Stanley Vanourny ..................389
Frances Dubishar ...................400
Fern Fackler ...........................400
Ellen Jones .............................400
Florence Kadlec .....................400
Glenn Klinsky .........................400
Harold Klinsky .......................400
Alvin Vondracek ....................400
Dean Dedic ............................423
Daniel Kozak ..........................426
George Janecek .....................427
Arlene Neuzil .........................427
Eileen Severson .....................431
Leland Sedlacek .....................500
50-Year Members
John Korbel ...............................2
Karen Pressnell ..........................3
Christine Mc Kibbon ..................5
Cheryl Dietz ...............................7
Daniel Dillemuth .......................7
Tena Gazur .................................7
David Holec ...............................7
Jacquelyn Lechtenberg .............8
Jean Claypatch .........................10
Kathleen Claypatch .................10
Mark Claypatch .......................10
Edwin Novotny ........................11
Beverly Pashina .......................11
Rory Strachota .........................11
Laura Borkowicz ......................13
Kenneth Merta Jr ....................13
Schary Shouse .........................13
Diane Spilinek ..........................14
Jo Ann Trofholz ........................14
Lori Wadas...............................14
Robert Benyshek .....................19
Randal Kasha ...........................19
Alan Woodside ........................19
Lori Lenehan ...........................20
Susan Long ..............................20
Christy Navarro .......................20
Lee Novy ................................20
Robert Wagner ........................20
Richard Lyon ............................22
Debra Coolidge .......................28
Karen Doffin ............................28
Nancy Houfek ..........................28
Penny Janousek .......................28
Cheryl Ober .............................28
Mary Ann Shonka ....................28
Jerry Tomasek .........................28
Diane Uher ..............................28
Mark Malousek .......................29
Corrine Mislivecek ..................32
Gary Mislivecek........................32
Bruce Adams ...........................34
Michael Lhotka ........................34
Janet Plihal ..............................34
Ernest Puncochar ....................34
Allen Vorlicek ..........................34
Nancy Beck ..............................39
Debra Blair ..............................39
Steven Boardman ....................39
Kristine Carlson .......................39
Pamela Hunt ............................39
Beverly Jondle .........................39
Sara Kelly .................................39
Elaine Maynard .......................39
Elaine Rubel .............................39
Sonja Scott ..............................39
Kathryn Swan ..........................39
Timothy Volf ............................39
Frederick Pacovsky..................44
Randolph Rayman ...................44
Melvin Cerny ...........................45
Michael Hrabik ........................45
Tammy Lempka .......................45
Susan Marbach........................45
Tina Van Cleve .........................45
Helen Murphy .........................46
Mary Berendt ..........................48
John Chochola .........................48
Robert Deglau .........................48
Gene Kissinger .........................48
Thomas Klein ...........................48
Frank Koratko ..........................48
Thomas Lannoy .......................48
Dolores Ludwig .......................48
Polly Maziasz ...........................48
Frances Novotny .....................48
Margaret Wilding ....................48
Becky Highland ........................53
Donald Skokan ........................53
David Fikar...............................54
Tammy Husa ............................54
Terry Hynek .............................54
Kathryn Mahloch ....................54
Joe Novak Jr ...........................54
Marvin Pesek...........................54
Michael Pesek .........................54
Lois Rezabek ...........................54
Sheila Vostrez ..........................54
Donna Aegerter.......................67
Rodney Bales ...........................67
Robert Crist .............................67
Janet Durbin ............................67
William Grossman ...................67
Carmene Kroutil ......................67
Keith Orth ................................67
James Kohler ...........................69
Eugene Nedved .......................71
Lawrence Nedved ...................71
Martha Reisz ...........................71
Verda Sykora ...........................71
Kimberly Anderle Robertson ..73
Donna Buechler ......................73
Michael Dura ...........................73
Richard Erickson ......................73
Janna Gillespie ........................73
Joyce Grun ...............................73
Don Johnson............................73
Donald Kirt ..............................73
Jessie Kovall .............................73
Corinne Krueger ......................73
Lora Lindbom ..........................73
Susan Ostrenga .......................73
Cathy Phelps ............................73
Martha Rice .............................73
Judith Strnad ...........................73
David Svoboda ........................73
Lynn Swiatnicki ........................73
Priscilla Thomson ....................73
Roberta Tordeur ......................73
Dale Wawrzon .........................73
Patti Wheelock ........................73
Pamela Fuller........................... 74
Larry Jonas .............................. 74
Allen Ladman .......................... 74
Shirley Mariska ........................ 74
Gary Rezac ...............................74
William Thompson ..................74
Nancy Slepicka ........................76
Steven Mach ...........................81
Steven Welsch .........................82
January 2013 5

50-Year Members
James Blecha ...........................84
Phyllis Blecha...........................84
Jody Nesja ...............................84
Ricky Penkava..........................84
Elsie Tomek .............................84
Kay Herold ...............................85
Marvin Martinek .....................85
Susan Miller.............................85
Mary Hall .................................89
Bruce Smrcka ..........................89
Joe Smrcka ..............................89
Gary Straka ..............................89
Karen Terry ..............................89
Darlene Torrez .........................95
Joseph Cizek ..........................100
Holly De Long ........................100
George Holub ........................100
Linda Knoop ..........................104
Wanda Koupal .......................104
Larry Melsa ...........................104
Stephen Milota......................104
Frankie Nekola ......................104
Douglas Rayman ....................104
Richard Wrage .......................104
Alan Lukes..............................106
Frank Lukes Ii .........................106
Curtis Malafa .........................106
Daniel Shirek .........................106
Douglas Trenda .....................106
Jerome Bruns ........................107
Jeffrey Dushack .....................107
Michael Erp ...........................107
John Kragness Jr ....................107
Kathleen Madsen ..................107
Betty Kvitek ...........................108
David Mintner .......................108
Scott Kolar .............................109
Gloria Oliva............................109
Jeane Sakwitz ........................109
Karen Cox ..............................112
Joanne Fowler .......................112
Donnie Hasebroock ...............112
Lana Halling ...........................121
Rebecca Pennel .....................121
Wayne Wencel ......................121
Sandra Bennett .....................126
Betty Bradle ..........................126
Anna Gresch ..........................126
Jack Hoglund .........................126
Gary Johnson ........................126
Bettijane Leciejewski .............126
Sandra Paitl ...........................126
Cindy Roffers Korpela ...........126
Lorraine Zifko ........................126
Lavonne Meixner ..................127
Roxanne Muncy ....................127
Brian Racek ...........................127
P Scheinfeld ...........................127
Daniel Stursa .........................127
Gayle Stanek .........................141
Craig Doerfler ........................142
Robert Golen .........................142
Mary Gottinger ......................142
Daniel Gray ............................142
Ned Jerabek ..........................142
Debra Klingeisen ...................142
William Kopetsky ..................142
Greg Paider ...........................142
Suzanne Epstein ....................144
Bonnie Gotchy .......................144
John Hafner ...........................144
Teresa Medo .........................144
Frank Szitta Jr ........................144
Norman Dvorak .....................146
Cynthia Kaplan ......................146
William Kasal .........................146
Clarence Yuska ......................146
Gary Tomanek .......................147
Todd Wojtalewicz ..................152
Verna Buchholz .....................155
Leroy Heyda ..........................155
Joseph Kaisershot .................155
Mary Kaisershot ....................155
Michelle Korbel .....................155
Marvin Kotek .........................155
Gary Rutt ................................155
Vernon Trcka .........................155
Anthony Walker ....................155
Gregg Koeppen .....................160
Barbara De Sersa ...................162
Lori Harmacek .......................162
Daniel Vedral .........................162
Sally Herbert .........................181
Ann Morgen ..........................181
Dale Zlock ..............................181
Tony Smith.............................188
Marjorie Zietlow ...................188
Kathryn Blonigen ..................192
Todd Chan .............................192
Jeffrey Hvezda .......................192
Scott Hvezda ..........................192
Lawrence Kotval ....................192
Daniel Allen ...........................193
Marla Brueske .......................193
Patti Buttner ..........................193
Carol Jefferson ......................193
Jeffrey Kingsley .....................193
Ronald Osborn ......................193
Laura Sutherland ...................193
Lori Thompson ......................193
David Jelinek .........................196
Robin Krause .........................196
Mark Reichenbach ................196
Darla Zinn ..............................196
Scott Miller ............................201
Lila Mihm ...............................203
Richard Price .........................203
Eleanor Horachek ..................218
David Kopecky .......................218
John Kruta .............................219
Audrey Wahlert .....................219
Germaine Biely ......................221
Mark Biely .............................221
Richard Biely .........................221
Ida Slager ...............................221
Gail Verkuylen .......................221
Helen Benson ........................222
Bette Harvey .........................222
Vanessa Young ......................222
Thomas Bernath Jr ................225
Gay English ............................225
Le Roy Feltman ......................225
Bernard Feltman Sr ...............225
Joseph Ozwalda ....................225
Kathleen Ozwalda .................225
Julie Wolven ..........................225
Barbara Culley .......................234
Edwin Svancara .....................234
Joseph Bures .........................236
Debra Dolezalek ....................236
Lori Hilgart ............................236
Joseph Lobermeier ................236
Lisa Novotny ..........................237
Julia Scarano .........................237
Barbara Ballantine ................242
Joan Banar .............................242
Ted Bocek ..............................242
Diane Chmelar .......................242
Chris Hajek ............................242
Catherine Lab ........................242
Peggy Mitosinka ....................242
Michael Sadilek .....................242
Brian Salava ...........................242
Helen Stasa............................242
Lillian Stehlik .........................242
Janice Suchanek ....................242
Albert Valasek .......................242
Edward Vyskocil ....................242
Frank Vyskocil Iii ....................242
Catherine Vyskocil-Maxwell .242
James Yaklin ..........................242
Michael Zvonek .....................242
Sarah Runge ..........................243
Chris Speakar ........................243
Sharon Tatro ..........................243
Shirley Wilson .......................247
Rebecca Kaefring ..................262
Stephen Lindemann ..............262
Karen Svoboda ......................262
Charles Swenka .....................262
Jeffery Tisl .............................262
William Bican ........................280
Mathew Patera .....................280
Charles Todd..........................280
Patricia Herman ....................289
Yvonne Silhan ........................289
Edward Dzurko ......................295
Pamela Frantz .......................295
Nadeyda Phillips ....................295
Janice Erickcek ......................296
Joni Krca ................................296
Dale Maruska ........................296
Jerome Matousek .................296
Lorrie Mc Elroy ......................296
Susan Milius ..........................296
Richard Pavlis ........................296
Suzanne Rodriguez ................296
Ellen Chapman ......................330
Kenneth Comperda ...............330
Paul Miller .............................330
Melissa Pavlicek ....................330
Steven Pawlowski ..................330
Donald Ptacek .......................330
Denise Rudecki ......................330
Clifford Campbell Jr ...............332
Robert Cizek ..........................332
Marjorie Janota .....................332
Jo Anne Schulz .......................332
Gloria Weinert ......................332
Dalyn Zwiefelhofer ................332
Roger Blazek ..........................346
Russell Cook ..........................346
David Mach ...........................346
Shirley La Rose ......................355
Kathryn Janette .....................357
Lisa Zimmerman ....................357
Del Schultz.............................360
Teresa Seltman ......................361
Gene Baumgartner ...............365
Mark Buchanan .....................365
Daniel Kubetz ........................365
Rhonda Lampereur ...............365
Marie Mleziva .......................365
Glenn Schanilec .....................365
Edith Urban ...........................365
6 January 2013

Joy Wessely ...........................365
Florence Worachek ...............365
Robert Zima ..........................365
Carol Anderle ........................377
David Bednar .........................377
John Hallada ..........................377
Dwayne Palasek ....................377
Donna Hansen .......................389
Kathryn Keller .......................389
Alissa Klasek ..........................389
Diane O'Neel .........................389
Terry Prokop ..........................389
Cathryn Rhodes .....................389
Delorie Znamenacek .............389
Nancy Dole ............................391
Janice Janowski .....................391
Todd Kraynik .........................391
Cynthia Conner .....................400
Thomas Hofer ........................400
Anne Miller ............................400
Lisa Nelson ............................400
L Durham ...............................401
Alvin Elsik Jr ...........................401
Ricky Lucan ............................401
John Smithwick .....................401
Anna Zabojnik .......................401
Helen Goss ............................402
Anthony Jurcik.......................402
Adrianne Lee .........................402
Duane Genteman ..................408
Mary Noe ..............................408
Rex Mckee ............................416
Dianne Psencik ......................416
David Schiller .........................416
Augustus Buhrman ................423
Donald Finn ...........................423
Curtis Hynek ..........................423
Brian Jeffery ..........................423
Phillip Nejdl ...........................423
Allan Schoon .........................423
Laurie Bellinghausen .............426
Alice Bayne ............................427
James Jiras .............................427
Robert Johnston ....................427
James Kennedy ......................427
Rosemary Kennedy ...............427
La Verne Meade ....................427
Leanne Miller ........................427
Michael Stockman .................427
Marilyn Thompson ................427
Daryl Wagner ........................427
50-Year Members
Annette Kelarek.....................428
Thomas Lundberg .................431
Jeannine Meincke .................431
Margo Estep ..........................446
Theresa Switzer .....................446
Joseph Gase ..........................500
Clarence Hickey .....................500
Larry Kopecky .......................500
Dale Nickels ...........................500
Clement Ryan ........................500
Margie Sedlacek ....................500
Zane Sharp ............................500
Linda Wesbrook ....................500
Back in Time
We are celebrating our 116th anniversary this year! Oh how times have changed, but one thing remains the same, wfla’s
commitment to their members and community. In celebrating 116 years, we wanted to take a look back at events happening at
wfla and around the world in 1897.
1897 – 116 years
January 23 Was the start of Sherlock Holmes, Adventure of Abbey Grange.
February 11 WFLA was organized in Omaha, NE. The first National Officers were: President Josef Zbanek; Secretary Alois
Blaha (both from Cedar Rapids), Treasurer Hynek Breuer of New Prague, MN; Joseph Mekota of Cedar Rapids
was General Counsel later in 1897, and Dr. Karel H. Breuer of David City, NE was elected Medical Director
in 1898.
March 11 A meteorite enters the earth’s atmosphere and explodes over New Martinsville, West Virginia. The debris causes
damage but no injuries are reported.
May 18 Dracula, a novel by Irish author Bram Stoker, is published.
June 12 Possibly the most severe quake in history strikes Assam India. Shock waves felt over an area the size of Europe.
The mortality rate was low given the size of the quake, 1500 casualties.
June 24 WFLA Articles of Incorporation were filed under the laws of the state of Iowa.
July 4 Zapadni Ceska Bratrska Jednota (ZCBJ), the Western Bohemian Fraternal Association (WBFA) was born.
The first Association Secretary Alois Blaha lived in Cedar Rapids, IA, and most of the business was conducted
from his home until 1908.
August 31 Thomas Edison patented his movie camera, Kinetograph.
November 23 Pencil sharpener patented by J.L. Love.
December ZCBJ boasted 49 charter lodges and 1,259 charter members.
2013 Lodge Anniversaries
The lodges who are celebrating anniversaries in 2013 are listed below. Many of those lodges plan special celebrations at
some point during the year. You may want to contact a lodge officer to find out if they are having a special celebration.
Lodge No./City/State Charter Date Years with wfla
No. 128, Rossville, KS 01/17/1903 110 years
No. 168, Mahnomen, MN 12/07/1913 100 years
No. 260, Kolin, LA 04/17/1923 90 years
No. 262, Cedar Rapids, IA 07/24/1923 90 years
No. 342, Spencer, NE 10/15/1933 80 years
No. 391, Luxemburg, WI 12/01/1938 75 years
January 2013 7

LODGE AWARD/PROJECTS FORM
For projects completed in 2013 and awarded in 2014
All lodges must complete the form and submit the information each year.
A lodge that wins an award will receive an additional $.10 per member per month in their lodge grant.
A new level, the Outstanding Leadership Award, has been added to the award program to encourage lodges to introduce
young members and non-members to the lodge. We hope by providing this additional incentive it will not only provide a base
of young volunteer members, but will help to ensure the future of the lodge system. If you need information about YELL!
groups and how to start them, contact the Youth Activities Director, Kelsey Logan, at the Home Office. There is also a change
in the Level I Award. Please note Regulation No. 7.
Directions:
Please complete the form and attach verification of activities and meeting dates with your form. Please follow the regulations
on this sheet. If you have any questions, please contact the Lodge Director, Kitty Chadima, in the Fraternal Department at
1-877-wflains (935-2467) or (319) 363-2653. All forms must be received at the Home Office no later than January 31, 2014.
Outstanding Leadership Award—$1,000
1. Complete all requirements for a Level I Award with the bonus (Level I, No. 6).
2. Have a YELL! group (at least five active youth, two of which are lodge members) in place for at least six months of the year and
complete at least two projects. If your lodge is part of a group of lodges who have a joint YELL! group, your lodge must have at least
five active youth, two of whom are lodge members.
3. Have at least one elected lodge officer (President, Vice President, Secretary, Correspondent, or Treasurer) under the age of 40 (age
as of January 1).
4. Sponsor a fundraiser for the community, lodge, or individual. Raise a minimum of $500. The lodge must take a major part in developing
and carrying out the event. At least seven members must be actively involved in the event. This can be a fundraiser with another
group as long as the above requirements are met.
5. Provide one additional youth activity (in addition to the Level I requirements and other than JOIN HANDS DAY) in which youth
(five or more members or non-members) are actively involved in a project with at least five other adult lodge members. Youth in this
instance can be anyone between the ages of 4-24.
Level I—$300
1. Hold a minimum of eight lodge meetings per year
2. Sponsor eight community activities (see No. 7
regulation concerning collections)
3. Sponsor two youth projects (see No. 7 regulation)
4. Award 10% of the lodge grant to charities
5. Complete two activities to “build your lodge”
6. Participate in JOIN HANDS DAY or get 2% gain
in membership or get the required number of referrals.
Note: to receive a $100 bonus complete two
of the three.
Level II—$200
1. Hold a minimum of eight lodge meetings per year
2. Sponsor eight community activities
3. Sponsor two youth projects
4. Award 10% of the lodge grant to charities
5. Complete two activities to “Build your Lodge”
Level III—$100
1. Hold a minimum of six lodge meetings per year
2. Sponsor four community activities
3. Sponsor one youth project
4. Award 10% of the lodge grant to charities
5. Complete one activity to “Build your Lodge”
Regulations:
1. Each activity can only be counted once.
2. If you have completed more activities than are required, please list
them and continue on another sheet of paper if necessary.
3. You still need to include written verification that you did a project.
This can be done several ways:
a. a copy of the event in your minutes
b. a copy of the event in your local newspaper
c. copies of thank-you notes from organizations for service
d. written invitation to lodge members or community flyer
e. either a copy of the written report that the correspondent sends
into the magazine or the actual clipped copy of the magazine.
f. print an online post about an event or activity
4. Please mark your verification with the corresponding letter and
number.
5. An activity or project must be done by at least two members and be
done in the name of the lodge.
6. For a lodge donation, copies of the canceled checks or a copy of the
motion to donate from your minutes.
7. For Level I: You can only have a total of two collections out of the
combined eight community and one youth project listed. For
instance, you may list two lines of collections in community activities
or one in the community activities and one in youth projects. Of
the two (2) required activities, youth projects must have at least one
(1) event or activity that involves youth that is not a collection or
donation. The other six activities in community must be active
volunteer projects in the community. Collections include anything
that can be collected at home and dropped off at a distribution point.
Collection examples include: can tabs, soup labels, stamps, box
tops, pill bottles, batteries, milk lids, eyeglasses, magazines, grocery
receipts, and newspapers.
8 January 2013

Donation to The National
Czech & Slovak Museum & Library
Member Helen Abramson and her husband made the trip to Cedar Rapids, IA to visit the
National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library in October 2012. They watched the moving of the
museum on the internet, and were amazed at the work that had been done to place this huge building
on higher ground in approximately a year and a half. Helen had spoken to the museum librarian,
Dave Muhlena, who was expecting them. When Helen's mother, Rose Rances Vomachka Zatocil,
passed away she received her baptismal certificate. Helen spoke with her brother and mother's only
remaining sibling about donating the certificate to the Czech Museum in Cedar Rapids. They both
agreed that it was the thing to do with such a beautiful piece of history. It is framed and written in
beautiful script. They also donated 33 ⅓ rpm Czech records, as well as an autographed book that
had belonged to her grandmother Frances Mlejnek. They believe she had it from when she lived in
Czechoslovakia.
If you have books, photos, or old secretary minutes that you would like to see preserved, please
contact Dave Muhlena at: 1-319-362-8500, x202 or e-mail: dmuhlena@NCSML.org to discuss
what you have prior to sending any materials.
(l-r) Helen Abrahmson and
Librarian Dave Muhlena.
Member Helps Raise $2,600 for Local
Disabled American Veterans
Member Mike Ruzek, No. 38, Austin, MN and his two brothers, Dave and Dan, put together a Czech dinner benefit
which was held on November 10, 2012. The funds raised went to supporting the Mower County's Arnold Brandt Chapter of the
Disabled American Veterans organization. The Ruzek brothers are 100% Czech, and the dinner consisted of pork roast, potato
dumplings, Ruzek's homemade sauerkraut, corn, rolls, and "Czech" chocolate cake.
The Ruzek brothers wanted to organize a benefit dinner to support veterans with disabilities as a fitting tribute to their late
father, Carl Ruzek, a World War II veteran who had disabilities. The dinner also served as an honor to those who are, or have
been, caregivers to veterans with disabilities.
The dinner was a great success and they raised $2,643 for the Disabled American Veterans organization.
Radil Family Honored as
Minnesota's Farm Family of the Year
The Radil family farm in Alexandria has been in the family for over 100 years and
has been in operation since 1885. Today, members Max and Lyla, No. 192, Alexandria,
MN are the fifth generation on the farm and have been honored as Minnesota's 2012
Farm Family of the Year. The farm is a dairy, beef, and crop operation. Max and Lyla
Radil, Matthew Radil, Melinda Fults, Dwight Radil, and Darren Radil are all involved
in the farm.
MEMBERS IN THE NEWS
January 2013 9

KITCHEN TALK
Moist Apple Cake
Velma Willet, Lodge No. 84, Table Rock, NE
2 C sugar 2 tsp soda
½ C margarine ½ tsp cinnamon
3 eggs ¼ tsp salt
1 tsp vanilla 4 C chopped apples
2 C flour ½ C nuts (optional)
Mix wet ingredients as listed. Sift soda, cinnamon, and salt. Add to
sugar, margarine, egg, and vanilla, mixture. Stir in apples and nuts.
Pour into greased and floured 9x13 inch pan and bake at 3500 for
45 minutes or until it is done. This is very good served with a dollop
of whipped topping covered with a caramel sauce.
Stuffed Pepper Soup
Rita Cermak, Lodge No. 147, Mandan, ND
2 lb hamburger or ground beef 1 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper ½ C onion, diced
2 beef boullion cubes 1 32 oz tomato juice
¼ C brown sugar 2 green peppers, chopped
2 10.5 oz can chicken broth 1 28 oz can diced tomatoes
1½ C minute rice
Brown hamburger or ground beef add, salt, pepper, and onion.
Add beef boullion cubes, tomato juice, sugar, green peppers, chicken
broth, and diced tomatoes. Simmer for 40 minutes. Add minute rice.
Cover for 10 minutes cooking on low. Serve.
Barbecue Country Style Ribs
Karen Ryba, Lodge No. 106, Lankin, ND
1 C water 1 T sweet pickle juice or
vinegar
1 C barbecue sauce 1 T mustard
2 C ketchup 1 tsp salt
1 C brown sugar 1 tsp pepper
4 lb country style spareribs
Combine all ingredients except ribs in sauce pan. Heat to boiling
and stir constantly until sugar melts. Place spare ribs in shallow
roasting pan or 9x13" cake pan. Cover ribs with sauce and cover
pan with foil.
Bake at 3500 for 3-4 hours.
Note: These may be done on the grill or in a smoker, lower
temperature to 2400 and cook until very tender (it will take several
hours longer).
Brombouka
Lillian Hall, Lodge No. 81, Wagner, SD
1 cake yeast 1 tsp sugar
½ C warm water
Dissolve yeast and sugar in water.
1 C milk, boiling ¼ tsp allspice
8 potatoes, grated ½ tsp nutmeg
2 C flour 4 segments garlic (chopped)
¾ tsp ginger 1 tsp margarine
1 tsp pepper 1 T salt
Grate potatoes and add boiling milk, mix well. Add flour and yeast
mixture and let rise to double in size. After rising, add all spices, mix
well. Grease heavily a 9x13" cake pan. In the bottom of pan sprinkle
heavily with whole poppy seeds. Pour dough over poppy seeds. Allow
to rise about 20 minutes. Then place in over at 4250 and bake for
30 minutes. Take out and grease top with butter. Then place back
in oven and bake another 30 minutes. Total baking time is 1 hour.
Cool and cut into 2" squares.
Swedish Nut Cake
Carol Vargo, Lodge No. 330, Brookfield, IL
2 C sifted flour (measure after sifting)
2 eggs 1 tsp vanilla
2 C sugar 2 tsp baking soda
¾ C chopped nuts 1 20 oz can crushed pineapple
(juice and all)
Put all ingredients for cake in bowl; mix without beating. Bake
3500 for 35 minutes in greased 9x11 cake pan.
Frosting
1 8 oz pkg cream cheese ¼ lb butter or margarine
1 T vanilla 1¾ C sugar
¼ C chopped nuts
Beat frosting ingredients (except nuts) until smooth. Frost cake
while hot. Sprinkle with nuts. (Refrigerate after cool).
Lazy-Day Overnight Lasagna
Carol Vargo, Lodge No. 330, Brookfield, IL
1 lb mild italian sausage or ground beef
1 48 oz jar prepared spaghetti sauce 1 15 oz carton ricotta cheese
2 T chopped fresh chives ½ tsp dried oregano leaves
1 egg 8 oz uncooked lasagna noodles
1 16 oz pkg sliced mozzarella cheese 2 T grated parmesan cheese
Brown sausage in large skillet; drain well. Add spaghetti sauce,
blend well. Simmer 5 minutes.
Combine ricotta cheese, chives, oregano, and egg; mix well.
In bottom of ungreased 13x9 inch baking dish or lasagna pan,
spread 1½ C of meat sauce; top with 4 noodles, half of the ricotta
cheese mixture and half of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat with 4 more
noodles, ricotta cheese mixture, and mozzarella cheese; top with meat
sauce (holding back about ½ C) (note the order - this time the meat
sauce is last).
Then put 4 more noodles on the top and spread the remaining
meat sauce evenly over all of it. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
Cover, refrigerate overnight. Heat oven to 3500. Uncover baking
dish. Bake 50-60 minutes or until noodles are tender and casserole
is bubbly. Cover; let stand for 15 minutes before serving. Makes 12
servings.
French Onion Soup
Karen Ryba, Lodge No. 106, Lankin, ND
4 C sliced onions 6 slices provolone cheese
4 10.5 oz. can beef broth ¾ C diced swiss cheese
½ C unsalted butter ¼ C grated parmesan cheese
2 T olive oil 2 T dry sherry or red wine
1 tsp dried tyme salt and pepper to taste
1 lb loaf french bread, sliced
Melt butter in 8 quart stock pot on medium heat. Add olive oil and
stir. Add onions and continually stir until tender and translucent.
Do not brown the onions.
Add beef stock, sherry/wine, and thyme. Season with salt and
pepper, and simmer for 30 minutes.
Ladle soup into six individual, oven safe serving bowls and place
one slice of bread on top. (Bread can also be broken into pieces if you
prefer.) Layer cheese on top of bread, placing a slice of provolone,
evenly distribute swiss and then parmesan cheese. Place bowls on
cookie sheet and broil until cheese bubbles and browns lightly.
10 January 2013

Who Are We?
When you describe wfla to outside members, what do
you say? How do you describe our organization? Recently
the American Fraternal Alliance, the fraternal benefit society
trade association dedicated only to the concerns and issues of
fraternal benefit societies, released research results about how
fraternal organizations are perceived. The bad news is that no
one (outside of active members) has any awareness about what
fraternal organizations do or how they are structured. The good
news is that when individuals are told about the community
service, the member-govern structure, and the not-for-profit
status - they LOVE us! The key, as told by the research, is to
mention certain key words to describe who we are in a way
“outsiders” can understand. Using words about how we are both
a community of members and that we help in the communities
of our members is very powerful. Another great aspect is to
explain that we are a not-for-profit organization and that we do
not report to share holders, only our board that is composed
of our members and who are elected by members. Combining
those points with our secure financial situation makes us look
great compared to the for-profit companies. Remember, when
explaining what wfla is, look for ways to highlight not only our
great past, but also the future.
YOUTH IN THE NEWS
Members Abby and
Mitch Van Dyke of
No. 7, Cedar Rapids,
IA participated in the
IA All State Music
Festival. This is
Abby's 4 th time in the
Orchestra playing
the double bass
and Mitch's 1 st year
playing tuba in the
band.
Member Kelsey Zoubek of
No. 389, Western, NE was
the winner of the guessing
game at the November 30
meeting.
YOUTH IN THE NEWS
Goals and Planning
After the garland and tree comes down, it is time to start
thinking about what you want to accomplish this coming year.
What a perfect time to start thinking about how to increase
your membership and decide on a few goals for growth this
year. I am sure that most, if not all, of this information is not
new to any of you, but it is always good to have a reminder. The
best way to start creating goals in a group is to dedicate time
to get all ideas out in the open. What is the most pressing item
for your lodge? What actions must your lodge take for survival?
What actions are only fun, but not as urgent? Whittle those
down to the most critical items and write a statement about
what you want to accomplish.
Ex. Goal 1: Lodge XX will increase the number of
activities in 2013.
After the vague statement or goal has been made, your
lodge should decide on how to achieve this. The action steps
you put into place, after the goal has been determined, are
called the objectives. They determine exactly how your group
will accomplish the above goal. One important thing about
creating objectives is to make sure they are measurable by
including numbers.
Objectives for Goal 1:
1. Each member will bring one new project idea to each
meeting this 2013.
2. Officers will enforce doing two activities that have never
been done before by 2014.
3. Lodge XX will do one additional project for young members
that is not a collection or donation in 2013.
By setting specific goals and objectives down at the beginning
of the year to determine what you want to accomplish, it
becomes much easier to see how far you have come, and what
your lodge must do to continue. If you have any questions or
comments please email klogan@wflains.org
Member and Senior Mary
Bjorklund of No. 44,
Hayward, MN was crowned
Homecoming Queen at
Northwood-Kensett High
School. Mary is active in
sports and is a member of
the National Honor Society.
She is the granddaughter of
Marcella and Lowell Nelson.
January 2013 11

PRODUCERS PAGE
Region of the Month
Greater Iowa Agency
J. David Butler, FICF, LUTCF
REGIONAL MANAGERS
IA J. David Butler, FICF, LUTCF
(319) 621-9597
SD James J. Neuhardt, FICF
(605) 554-2020
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
Top 5 Career Agents
Ryan Fowler, FICF
Mike Brown, FICF
Fabian Seyller, LUTCF
Brad Putnam, FIC, LUTCF, CSA
Brad Gilson, FICF
Top 5 Commercial Agents
Diane Rook-Johnson, FIC, CLU, CFP
Jeff Hitt
Brad Pratt, CLU
Ken Cafourek, LUTCF
Richard Villers
WFLA LEADERS FOR THE MONTH OF NOVEMBER
TOP ASSOCIATE
Drew Seyller (IL)
MOST LIFE PREMIuM
Jeffrey Hitt (IL)
MOST NEW MEMBERS
Dalbert Steele (IL)
COMMERICAL AGENT OF THE MONTH
Diane Rook-Johnson, FIC, CLU,
CFP (MN)
MOST NEW MEMBERS
Donald Rosentreter (IL)
TOP CAREER & MOST
ANNuITy PREMIuM
Ryan Fowler, FICF (IA)
MOST CERTIFICATES PLACED
Brad Gilson, FICF (KS)
3 Way Tie for Most New Members
MOST NEW MEMBERS
Carla Walter (IL)
12 January 2013

Financial Resolutions That
Will Simplify Your Life
In our complicated world, there are a lot of things we have to do on a regular basis.
Filling out your tax returns, renewing your auto licenses, and paying property taxes
are just a few things you must do. So, it makes sense to try to simplify your life.
Here are 12 goals (one each month) that you can work on in 2013.
1) Simplify the way you handle your day-to-day finances.
Set up your bills to be paid automatically via some sort of
automatic payment. Set up your savings contributions to be
automatically deducted from your payroll or from your checking
account.
2) Create an emergency fund. Car maintenance, appliance
replacements, and other repairs aren’t such a big problem if
you have money set aside. Build your emergency fund up to
an amount that is enough so that you can pay three months
of fixed expenses from it.
3) Organize your financial records. When you are organizing
your 2012 tax records, get all of your financial records sorted
and filed. Cull through old records and determine what should
be destroyed and what should be saved.
4) Set up a monthly budget and stick to it.
5) Become more knowledgeable about financial matters.
Purchase a good book on financial planning and READ IT.
The more knowledgeable you are about financial matters, the
more likely you are to be financially successful. For women,
check out Prince Charming Isn’t Coming, by Barbara Stanny.
The subtitle is “How Women Get Smart About Money.” This
is a great book designed to equip women with psychological
and financial tools that will help them take control of their
financial futures.
6) Set up a college savings fund for your children, grandchildren,
or great-grandchildren. Check into your statesponsored
529 Plan and set one up. Most plans start with
contributions of as little as $25.
7) Review all of your insurance plans – Life, health, disability,
homeowners, and long-term care plans. New features
and benefits are continuously developed, but your old contract
may not have the latest features. Sit down with your advisor
FINANCIAL PLANNING MATTERS
By Julie Cole, CFP®, FLMI
Annuity Product Manager
and see if you have enough insurance and that you have all the
features you need.
8) Create a retirement plan. One in five retirees acknowledges
that they did no planning before they retired. Fifty percent did
no planning until about 12 months before they retired. That
leaves only 30% of us who sit down, work though the numbers,
and make a retirement plan. Zig Ziglar has a saying – “If you
aim for nothing, you will hit it every time.”
9) Create or update a will. Fifty percent of people die without
a will - leaving their families and loved ones subject to estates
that are settled according to state laws.
10) Pay down debt. Fidelity investments surveyed 1,018
baby-boomers that recently retired from their jobs (because
of a voluntary retirement, lay-off, or disability). Forty-eight
percent of them are entering retirement with significant debt,
primarily home mortgage payments, car loans, or student loans
for themselves, their spouse, or their children.
11) Sharpen the Saw. Stephen Covey coined the phrase as a
metaphor to updating your skills and knowledge. A lumberjack
would never attempt to cut down a tree without first sharpening
his saw blade. If a lack of training is hindering your ability
to advance in your career or make more income, spend time
and energy updating your skills and making yourself more
attractive to employers.
12) Just do it. Procrastination and waiting for everything to
be perfect before starting something new is just an excuse for
doing nothing. Start working on a new goal and stick with it
until it becomes a habit. Financial success is a result of many
small steps that lead to long-term financial peace and harmony.
Wishing you a happy, prosperous, and financially worryfree
2013.
January 2013 13

CALENDER
Jan. 17 — Lodge No. 141, Cadott, WI—Christmas party mtg; Alberta
Mays; 5:30 cocktails with mtg to follow.
Jan. 31 — Lodge No. 289, Houston, TX—Mtg., 6:30 p.m.
Feb. 3 — Lodge No. 28, Clarkson, NE—Mtg.; Brass Rail Restaurant;
noon meal with mtg to follow; birthday celebration.
— Lodge No. 106, Lankin, ND—Mtg.; Lankin Senior Center;
12:30 p.m. potluck with mtg to follow.
Feb. 4 — Lodge No. 500, Cedar Rapids, IA—Mtg.; wfla Annex, 124
19 th St NE, Cedar Rapids; 6 p.m. Potluck with mtg to follow.
Valentine theme, wear red.
Feb. 5 — Lodge No. 262, Cedar Rapids, IA—Mtg., 6 p.m.; Hus
Memorial Church; 2808 Schaeffer Dr, SW.
Feb. 10 — Lodge No. 193, Adams, WI—Mtg., 1 p.m.; Big Flats Town
Hall; potluck lunch before meeting.
— Lodge No. 225, Bannister, MI—Mtg., 1:30 p.m.; ZCBJ
Hall; collection of used clothing drive (clean and in good
repair) and small working appliances. Contact Alice Gavenda
989-838-4458.
— Lodge No. 408, City Point, WI—noon; City Point Community
Center; potluck, mtg, bingo.
Feb. 24 — Lodge No. 225, Bannister, MI—Mtg.; ZCBJ Hall; Mid-winter
Jamboree; potluck at noon. Contact Diane Bradley 989-862-
5378.
Mar. 3 — Lodge No. 28, Clarkson, NE—Mtg.; Brass Rail Restaurant;
noon meal with mtg to follow; birthday celebration.
— Lodge No. 106, Lankin, ND—Mtg.; Lankin Senior Center;
12:30 p.m. potluck with mtg to follow.
Mar. 4 — Lodge No. 500, Cedar Rapids, IA—Mtg.; wfla Annex,
124 19 th St NE, Cedar Rapids; 6 p.m. lodge provides ham,
members supply sides with mtg to follow; after the mtg we
will fill Easter bags for disadvantaged.
Mar. 5 — Lodge No. 262, Cedar Rapids, IA—Mtg., 6 p.m.; Hus
Memorial Church, 2808 Schaeffer Dr. SW; speaker Joan
Hackbarth, director of community relations at Tanager Place.
Mar. 10 — Lodge No. 193, Adams, WI—Mtg., 1 p.m.; Big Flats Town
Hall; potluck lunch before meeting.
— Lodge No. 242, Owosso, MI—Board mtg at 1 p.m.; lodge
mtg at 1:30 p.m.
— Lodge No. 225, Bannister, MI—Mtg., 1:30 p.m.; ZCBJ Hall;
collection for Women's Aid Collection. Contact Sally Stoll at
847-2461.
Mar. 13 — Lodge No. 400, Swisher, IA—Mtg., 11:30 a.m.; Clarion Inn,
Cedar Rapids, IA.
Mar. 17 — Lodge No. 242, Owosso, MI—Easter party; 11:30 a.m.
Mar. 19 — Lodge No. 242, Owosso, MI—Making dumplings; dumpling
pick-up on the 21 st of March.
Mar. 24 — Lodge No. 408, City Point, WI—Mtg., noon; City Point
Community Center; Easter party potluck, mtg, bingo; egg
hunt for kids; food pantry collection.
Mar. 28 — Lodge No. 289, Houston, TX—Mtg., 6:30 p.m.
— Lodge No. 141, Cadott, WI—Mtg., 5 p.m.; Cadott Color
Center.
Apr. 1 — Lodge No. 500, Cedar Rapids, IA—Mtg.; wfla Annex, 124
19 th St NE, Cedar Rapids; 5:30 p.m. wine tasting social with
mtg to follow. Bring a bottle of wine, and hors d' oeuvre's,
mtg to follow. Bring personal care items for Linn County
Veteran's Association.
Apr. 2 — Lodge No. 262, Cedar Rapids, IA—Mtg., 6 p.m.; Hus
Memorial Church , 2808 Schaeffer Dr. SW; .
Apr. 6 — Lodge No. 141, Cadott, WI—noon; Bohemian Hall; meeting
following cleaning.
Apr. 7 — Lodge No. 106, Lankin, ND—Mtg.; Lankin Senior Center;
12:30 p.m. potluck with mtg to follow.
— Lodge No. 242, Owosso, MI—Board mtg at 1 p.m.; lodge
mtg at 1:30 p.m.
Apr. 12 — Lodge No. 141, Cadott, WI—Bingo; 7 p.m.
Apr. 14 — Lodge No. 225, Bannister, MI—Mtg.; 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.
StAtE MEEtingS 2013
Apr. 20 KS State Mtg, Bull City Cafe, registration begins at 10 a.m.,
noon meal, mtg to follow; host Lodge No. 246.
Apr. 21 iA State Mtg, Clarion Inn, Cedar Rapids; registration 10 a.m.;
host Lodge No. 423.
June 22/23 Mn State Mtg, Holiday Inn in Alexandria; host Lodge No.
192.
Oct. 19/20 Wi State Mtg, Best Western Menominee, MI.
nov. 3 Mi State Mtg, Bannister; 9:30 a.m. coffee, 10:30 a.m. mtg.
DiStRiCt MEEtingS 2013
Feb. 19 nE District 1, Sokol South Omaha Hall, 6 p.m.; host Lodge
No. 296.
Mar. 17 nE District 5, ZCBJ Hall, Verdigre, NE.
Apr. 7 nE District 4, City Hall in Clarkson, NE; noon potluck; host
Lodge No. 28.
Wi District 1, Grobschmidt Senior Center; host Lodge No.
48.
Apr. 21 Mi District Mtg, Walli's East, Flint; 9:30 coffee, 10:30 mtg.
Mn District 2, Komensky Hall in Hutchinson; host Lodge No.
34.
nE District 2, Czech Hall in Du Bois at 2 p.m.; host Lodge
No. 101.
Apr. 28 Mn District 4, Izaak Walton Building; host Lodge No. 127.
nE District 3, Wilber Care Center Activity Room; hosted by
Lodge No. 3.
Wi District 5; host Lodge No. 32.
May 5 Wi District 2, Reindl's in Menchalville, WI; host Lodge No.
221.
June 2 Wi District 4, Czeska Opera House; host Lodge No. 100,
Haugen, WI.
June 8 Wi District 3, Tradewinds Restaurant.
June 23 Mi District Mtg, Owosso ZCBJ Hall; 9:30 coffee, 10:30 mtg.
FEStivAlS 2013
May 17-19 Houby Days, Cedar Rapids, IA. Parade, crafts, music, food,
museum tours.
June 14-16 Phillips Czech Festival, Phillips, WI. Music, State Queen
Pageant,vendors, State Kolacky Baking Contest, Lidice
Memorial, traditional food, antique farm equipment, and beer
garden.
August 2-4 Wilber Czech Festival, Wilber, NE. Crowning of Czech queen,
music, dancing, food vendors.
August 4 Harvest Festival, dinner 11:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.; cost $10 for adults
& $3 for children; Program at 2:30 p.m., dance at 4 p.m. with
Vesela Kapela Band. Free admission
October 5 Yukon Czech Festival, Yukon, OK. Carnival, parade, craft
booths, music, dancing, singing, games, royalty crowning
and traditional food including kolaches and klobasa.
BOARD MEEtingS 2013
Feb. 21-23 Board of Directors Meeting, Cedar Rapids, IA
May 24-26 Board of Directors Meeting, Ennis, TX
July 26/27 Board of Directors Meeting, Cedar Rapids, IA
Oct. 25/26 Board of Directors Meeting, Cedar Rapids, IA
Please send us your 2013 Calendar of Events for
your Lodge, District, and State Meetings and any
Czech or Slovak festivals that your members help
sponsor.
14 January 2013

Member Marian Odehnal of
No. 48, Milwaukee, WI received
her certificate of Honorary
Membership.
Come Be Social with us!
WFLA is on Facebook and you can find fun
facts, read about what's happening with wfla,
and learn about how lodges are making a
difference in their communities.
Like Us At:
WFLA-Western Fraternal Life Association
Members Ben and Elaine Estel, No. 391, Luxemburg,
WI celebrated their 60 th anniversary with family.
They were married on Thanksgiving Day, in 1952 at
St. Joseph Catholic Church in Pilsen, WI.
2012 Lodge Referral Program
Congratulations to the members who submitted referrals
between November 16, 2012 - December 15, 2012.
Referrer name St lodge Referral
Marilyn Clark NE 74 1
Sheila Fairchild OK 475 7
Mary Haggerty MN 38 1
Donna Hansen NE 74 1
Emma Joyce Hartmann IA 423 1
Cleo Hendricksen WI 193 2
Justin Hug KS 19 1
Tracy Kelley TX 402 3
Shirley Knapp NE 112 4
Evelyn Koutnik MI 73 3
Marie Krikava MN 44 1
Donna (Kay) Luther IA 423 1
Dorene Mozdzierz WI 408 1
Jo Ann Ryba ND 106 1
Kerrol Skokan NE 53 3
Laura Sysel NE 74 3
SPOTLIGHT
Member Josephine Slama of No. 74, Dorchester,
NE received her Honorary Membership
certificate.
Members Evelyn Svenson, Milo Belshan,
and Gladys Belshan of No. 44, Hayward, MN
celebrated their 90 th birthdays.
Enter a Children’s
International Art Exhibit
We have received information on an international art
exhibit open to youth between 4-16 years of age from the
Czech Republic. The International Children’s Exhibition of
Fine Arts Lidice 2013 was originally established in 1967 and
has become one of the largest exhibits of children’s art in the
world. The exhibit typically receives more than 25,000 entries
from more than 60 countries. The theme this year is:
Traditions and Heritage of My Country’s People
Due date in the Czech Republic is March 15, 2013.
For information on art techniques available to use, eligibility
requirements, labeling the entry, prizes, and where to send
entries, please go to: www.mdvv-lidice.cz/en/invitation/, to the
link on our website, www.wflains.org, or call us for a printed
copy at 1-877-935-2467.
January 2013 15

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Colorado
Colorado No. 431, Denver, CO
Ruby Henderson, Correspondent
Our Christmas party and meeting was held on December
1 at the Johnson Center. We enjoyed a delicious lunch, and it
was great to include Dorothy Roy. John Fonken was present
and he said he will get together with Chuck to discuss what
can be done to get some interest built up in our membership.
Thank-you notes were read from Loaves and Fishes of
Canon City, and the Dumb Friends League of Denver for
our monetary donations.
We exchanged Christmas packages, and everyone seemed
delighted with their surprise.
We will plan our 2013 agenda on January 5 at the Country
Buffet.
Iowa
Cedar No. 7, Cedar Rapids, IA
Melissa Clapp, Correspondent
Ring-a-ding-ding – Lodge 7 (with
help) continues the tradition of
ringing the bells for Salvation Army’s
annual Red Kettle Drive.
Karel IV No. 13, Cedar Rapids, IA
Becky Kramer, Correspondent
Director Don Krall installed the following elected officers
for 2013: President Mike Papich, Vice President Leo Shima,
Secretary/Correspondent Becky Kramer, Treasurer Dennis
Hrabek, and Food Chairperson Committee Elaine Shima.
President Mike Papich called the meeting to order. Mike
discussed the Czech committee reports.
Director Don Krall told us about a new Disaster Relief
Benefit that wfla is offering to its members. A benefit of up
to $500 will be paid to cover out-of-pocket expenses. An
example of a disaster would be the flood of 2008 in Cedar
Rapids or Hurricane Sandy on the east coast. The member
applicant needs to complete an application which is on the
wfla website. The Board will review requests and then award.
Don also reminded us of the referral program, and the
need to work hard in 2013 to get these referrals in to the
Marketing Department. He also mentioned that we have a
new award for the lodges. This is for the lodges that go above
and beyond the Level 1 Award requirements. An example
would be to meet the requirements of the Level 1 Award,
plus have an active YELL! group (see page 8).
The next meeting will be March 11, 2013.
Budoucnost No. 22, Oxford Junction, IA
Carolee Brinkman, Correspondent
Members met at the home of President Virginia Carter on
December 13.
Our Czech Goulash dinner, which was held on October
21 with the OJ Heritage Museum, was a success.
We gave away fourteen sleds and saucers at the Holiday
party in OJ on December 8. Members also baked rye bread,
and helped serve the noon luncheon.
We will be working on our year-end reports at our next
meeting.
Fort Dodge No. 39, Fort Dodge, IA
LaVonne Halligan, Correspondent
We had our last meeting of the year on December 2 at the
Starlite Village Motel. The meeting was called to order by
President Laurence McLuckie after a delicious lunch.
Barb will be sending donations to several organizations that
we had approved at the November meeting. Kent Pliner was
reimbursed for the money spent on two Casey’s gift cards that
we had donated to the Czech dinner held on November 3.
Members discussed an event that will honor our beloved
Bohemian Hall that was destroyed by fire in August. Jerry
Wesley had obtained a location and band for this event. We
will have a free dance at the Elks Club in Fort Dodge on
August 10 from 6-10 p.m. A check was given to Jerry to rent
the building. The Malek Fisherman Band has been contacted
and will be available to play. They have always been the
favorite band of the dancers at the Bohemian Hall.
It was discussed to have some type of memorial on
the corner where the original hall was built, and also the
Bohemian Hall built in 1939. Jerry Wesley has drawn a
model. He removed the granite stone stating the dates of
the lodge and the stone labeled ZCBJ Lodge, as well as the
Bohemian Hall letters. It was suggested that maybe a small
park could be built where the original hall had been, but it
seems that it will be turned into farmland. We will have more
discussion on this next year at our meeting in February.
Linda Lemons wrote up this report in the absence of our
secretary LaVonne Halligan. Thanks Linda for a job well
done.
Iowa No. 85, Protivin, IA
Cindy Kostohryz, Correspondent
Members met at the Community Center at 11 a.m. in
Ossian, IA for the annual Christmas potluck on November
11. All officers were present. The meeting was called to order
by President Ron Pecinovsky with the Pledge of Allegiance.
Members enjoying
bingo at the November
meeting.
Gene Lundak,
trustee, read
the meaning of
Veterans Day and
how it started out to be Armistice Day. This reading was on
wfla’s Blog.
Secretary Cindy Kostohryz will email the guidance
counselors from the local schools with our scholarship
guidelines and form. They can make copies for their students.
The 2013 calendar was finalized. We decided to send out
a welcome letter and calendar to all new adult members for
the year 2013.
16 January 2013

Youth receive balloon
animals.
A moment of
silence was held
for all deceased
members.
A ll members
brought a nonperishable
item to
be donated to the
Winneshiek County Food Pantry.
The next meeting is January 27, 2013 at the Pizza Ranch
in Decorah, IA at noon. Members will eat from the buffet
and the meeting will be held afterwards. Members are asked
to bring their old greeting cards and calendars for a local
nursing home or daycare.
Cesti Bratri No. 104, Clutier, IA
Donna Banes, Correspondent
Our members met on November 19 at the hall.
New front doors for the hall were ordered and will be
installed.
The hall is reserved for April 20 and June 9, 2013.
We held the election of officers as follows: President Delane
Cizek, Vice President Arlene Schmidt, Treasurer Myrna
Dostal, Secretary Donna Banes, and Trustees Arlene Wrage,
Manetta Ohrt, and Richard Wiebbecke.
The hall will be closed from the end of the November until
the first of April 2013. Our next meeting will be March 18,
2013.
Klas No. 160, Center Point, IA
Ramona Williams, Correspondent
On October 13, members met at Cooper’s Mill for brunch.
President Don Williams called our meeting to order.
We made a donation to the Trunk-or-Treat youth activity.
We will again purchase Kleenex for three area schools. Don
will order these.
We voted to donate to His Hands.
It was also voted to purchase movie tickets and treats for
children at Systems Unlimited in December.
Members brought in box tops, batteries, and card fronts.
Our November 10 meeting was held at Cooper’s Mill
following our meal.
It was noted that several members participated in the
Leukemia Walk. We donated to the organization, and also
voted to donate to the Alzheimer’s fund.
Members took food trays to the elderly.
Don informed us that he has purchased items for “Vets
Homeless Care” program. We will deliver these near the end
of November. Members brought in pop tabs, pill bottles, and
box tops.
Cedar Rapids No. 262, Cedar Rapids, IA
Sarah Fowler, Correspondent
We had a great time during our Christmas party! The party
was at Hus Memorial Church, and we enjoyed good food,
drink, and being with friends!
We had the privilege of honoring two 75-year members
during the Christmas party, Belva Butcher and Evelyn
Rutledge, both of Cedar Rapids. When asked what their
FRATERNAL FOCUS
favorite memories of No. 262 were, they both answered, “the
dances.” Evelyn stated she really enjoyed going to the ZCBJ
dances with her parents as a child, because they were a lot
of fun! Evelyn also brought in her uncle Tony Prochaska’s
50-year pin to show us. Her uncle was a member of No. 160
in Center Point, IA and the pin was passed down to her. Her
uncle Tony built and owned the blacksmith shop on C Street
SW in the Czech Village. Everyone was very interested to see
how the pins have changed over the years.
Evelyn Rutledge holding her uncle’s
50-year member pin.
The current officers were
reappointed for 2013 as follows:
President Kathy Valenta,
Vice President Sarah Fowler,
Secretary Marge Petrzelka and
Treasurer Tom Hruska.
On a sad note, we will be
missing Angie Rohlena who
recently passed away. She was
an active member for a very
long time and she will be
missed.
Belva Butcher (l) and
Evelyn Rutledge (r)
receive their 75-year
pins.
Four Hundred No. 400, Swisher, IA
Linda Evers, Correspondent
Members met December 12 at the Clarion Inn in Cedar
Rapids. We installed the 2013 officers.
2013 officers: Linda
Evers, Mary Ann Siems,
and Judy and Wayne
Slezak.
We volunteered
as bell ringers
for the Salvation
Army. Pill bottles
were also donated
for recycling.
The financial audit will be conducted in January by three
members. Our March 13 meeting at 11:30 a.m. will be at
the Clarion Inn in Cedar Rapids.
Members enjoyed playing cards following the meeting.
Hawkeye No. 423, Cedar Rapids, IA
Del Votroubek, Recording Secretary
On December 5, members and guests met at the wfla
Annex. We had a busy fall. We filled and donated nine
Thanksgiving baskets to needy families. The lodge paid for
four baskets and individual members donated the other five.
January 2013 17

FRATERNAL FOCUS
We delivered the baskets, the week of Thanksgiving and met
after delivery for dinner and a meeting.
We welcome new member Emma
Turner.
Toys our members collected for Toys
for Tots.
We decided our Christmas project would be Toys for Tots.
We purchased toys and met at Tommy’s Restaurant and filled
their donation container to overflowing. Ten members and
two guests enjoyed visiting over breakfast afterwards.
At our December meeting, we elected officers for 2013
as follows: President Larry Luther, Vice President Joyce
Hartmann, Treasurer Phil Torticill, Secretary Peggy Kirby,
and Recording Secretary Dell Votroubek.
Our Christmas party will be at the Clarion Hotel. We are
expecting about 25 members and guests. It’s always good to
see friends and get an opportunity to visit.
The ladies of 423 began meeting once a month for
a ladies day out and have really been enjoying it. Nine of
them recently visited Amana for lunch at the Ronneberg
after a little shopping. The food and conversation were very
enjoyable. After lunch and more shopping, six members went
to see a play at the Old Creamery Theatre.
On January 17, the ladies are having lunch at Antique
Wicker in Marion at 11 a.m. They will decide after lunch
what to do next. If you wish to join them, you are welcome
to do so. Email votndell@aol.com so they will know how
many to make reservations for.
Several members began taking Majhong lessons through
Kirkwood Community College last fall. The group began
hosting Mahjong get-togethers once a month so they can
meet in the daytime.
We are hosting the State Meeting in 2013. The date is April
21 and the location is the Clarion Hotel. The cost will be
$26 per person. Put the date in your date book and meet us
at the Clarion. We hope we can have good attendance from
all the lodges.
Five Hundred No. 500, Cedar Rapids, IA
Trudy Plotz, Correspondent
Our meeting began at 6:45 p.m. on December 3. The
secretary’s report was handed out prior to the meeting; the
survey was summarized.
New members are Case Elm, Kale Campbell, Kean
Campbell, Maliyah Jensen, and Adleigh Plotz.
Correspondence was read from two charitable organizations.
They were passed on to the fraternal committee for
consideration.
Don reminded members that we still need three referrals
for the year.
Emmy thanked everyone for donating supplies for items
to various charities.
Marjeanne and Madeline thanked everyone for the help
on the committees throughout the year.
Don Krall will be on the audit committee with Jim Wolfe,
and Kae will turn over the books.
After the meeting, the chairpersons for 2013 met and set
up a schedule for activities to coordinate volunteers for the
different projects.
There is no meeting in January. For our February meeting
we will have a Valentine’s theme.
Kansas
Novy Tabor No. 19, Munden, KS
Ella Moravek, Secretary
Our December 9 meeting was well attended. We invited
three members who have not regularly attending our meetings.
The Kunc’s were not able to attend due to the weather,
but called to let us know and to wish us a Merry Christmas.
Member Virginia Molzahn and her husband joined us for a
lovely potluck Christmas dinner and gift exchange. We also
invited one guest and ended up with five guests.
The meeting was called to order by President Frank Rytych.
Geraldine Hiatt and
Josephine Strnad at the
Thanksgiving meeting.
With the year
coming to an end,
we had several
things to account
for. The members
got together to
clean the hall.
Eyeglasses, pill bottles, and can tabs were collected. Also
during the year, cans and plastic containers were recycled,
and clothes were given to Goodwill by several members.
Two members donated blood twice this year. Dewayne and
Sharon Kalivoda do commodity food distribution every
month. Twenty-eight hours were volunteered for this project.
President Frank Rytych, accompanied by his wife Maurene,
played Santa Claus at three events. Two of them were in
Cuba, KS for their Christmas activities, and one was in
Munden, KS for their annual Christmas program.
Walter and Virginia
Molzahn and Todd
Hudson at the
Christmas meeting.
Members brought food for the Food Bank. Twenty-five
hours were volunteered by several members to help at Rocky
Pond in Belleville, KS with their Christmas lighting decorations
and greeting guests in the evening. We were happy to
have a new referral for our membership, submitted by Justin
Hug.
18 January 2013

Hvezdnaty Prapor No. 95, Timken, KS
Novia Mays, Correspondent
Our activity committee gave a report on activities and
meetings held during the year at our November 10 meeting.
We had meetings on January 14, February 11, March 17,
April 14, May 12, June 9, October 13, and November 10.
Members started our year off with a Building-our-Lodge
activity. Members all drew a name of a member not present
and were asked to contact them in some manner and visit
with them about the lodge’s activities.
At our March 17 meeting, we filled plastic eggs for the
Bison Community Egg Hunt held on April 1. Following
our meeting, members decorated a truck for the St. Patrick’s
Day Parade in Rush Center and participated in the parade
by throwing out candy to the spectators. On March 24,
fourteen of our members helped out at the annual Timken
Bohemian National Cemetery workday. We provided chips
for the event.
During our April 7 meeting, our members decided to “Join
Hands” with the Lone Star Rangers 4-H Club of Bison. We
helped the 4-H members decorate and fill May baskets, which
were delivered by the 4-H kids on May 1 to Senior citizens
in the Bison and Timken area.
75-year member, William Vsetecka,
being presented his pin by President
Taberie Hartshorn.
Otis Christmas Light parade
participants getting ready to throw
candy.
Our May 12 meeting was used to discuss our Memorial
Day weekend event. For the Memorial weekend, members
handed out drinks at the Timken National Bohemian
Cemetery on May 26 and May 28. A report was also given by
our delegates who attended the KS State Meeting.
Our members at the June 9 meeting worked on the schedule
for our bike giveaway, which was held at the Rush County
Fair on August 2-4. Our winner was Allie Pakkebier. We
also gave out $10 to the second place winner.
Members baked cakes and many other members helped
out at the Timken Picnic in the Park Fundraiser for the Fire
Department held on August 11.
The members decided at our October 13 meeting to hand
out candy and pop to Bison trick-or-treaters on October 31.
Aluminum cans for recycling, Box Tops for Education,
and Campbell’s soup labels were turned in. Our collecting
of cans, box tops, and labels are done all through the year.
A moment of silence was observed in memory of our
secretary, Viola Roland.
On November 10, our lodge decided to make a monetary
donation to the Timken Fire Department and the Timken
National Bohemian Cemetery. Members also decided to
participate in the Otis Christmas Light parade on December
2. At the parade, members lit up candy canes on a “Candy
FRATERNAL FOCUS
Cab” and threw out candy to the parade spectators.
For the Bison Community Christmas party held on
December 8, members baked cookies. We also placed ribbons
on the Timken Bohemian Cemetery gates on December 10
for the Christmas season.
Trocnov No. 121, Caldwell, KS
Vlasta Albert, Correspondent
Correction from the November issue. We sold 240 dozen
kolaches.
Members met for a covered dish meal at the Nostalgia
Nook with members and guest enjoying the evening in a
Halloween decorated room on October 21. The meeting was
called to order by President Vlasta. A moment of silence was
held for members Grace Hula and Carolyn Henderson.
Helen Jenista
recieved an Honorary
Membership certificate.
Watermelon Feed at
Selmat farm.
Our meeting
was adjourned and
we enjoyed treats
because we were
not going to do
tricks.
A delicious Thanksgiving dinner was enjoyed on November
3 by members and guests at a fall decorated table. The lodge
furnished the turkey and trimmings with everyone bringing
delicious covered dishes.
The meeting was called to order by President Vlasta.
Volunteer hours were figured up, and our Christmas dinner
was discussed.
Bingo was enjoyed and we visited. We presented Otto Hula
with his Honorary Membership plaque.
A Christmas celebration was enjoyed by members on
December 1. We furnished ham sandwiches with trimmings,
plus a covered dish added to the feast.
The meeting was called to order in regular session and the
election of officers was held with everyone retaining their
positions.
The meeting was adjourned to celebrate Christmas with
Christmas carols, a gift exchange, and Christmas candy.
We sent five gallons of can tabs to the Ronald McDonald
House.
Our next meetings will be at 2 p.m. on January 20 and
February 17 for our Valentines party both at Nostalgia Nook.
Moravan No. 128, Rossville, KS
Marjorie Hromada, Correspondent
On October 17, our meeting was called to order by
President William Olejnik at the hall. Bradley Evans’
September newsletter was shared with members.
January 2013 19

FRATERNAL FOCUS
Treasurer Arlis Stach reported on the results from our
community dance.
Marjorie Hromada sent thank-you letters to members and
volunteers for donations toward the dance expenses.
Member Mary Martin reported she has been treasurer of
the Silver Lake Community Center for 14 years. She and her
husband, Charles, volunteer to care for the flower beds at
the center. They also deliver Meals-on-Wheels in the Silver
Lake area.
We made a monetary donation to the Children’s department
for the Rossville City Library.
Member Robert Heinze, No. 100 Haugen, WI visited our
lodge. Following our interesting conversation he traveled on
to visit our Czech Cemetery.
Members and guests enjoyed a volunteer potluck picnic
following the meeting.
Kansasky Vysehrad No. 203, Glasco, KS
Troy Boucek, Correspondent
The January 16, 2012 meeting was held at the Bohemian
Hall. Elections were held and officers were installed. A report
was made concerning the Christmas dance. A report was also
made that the cans from the dance had been taken to the
recycle center.
The February 20 meeting was held at the Bohemian Hall
with President Roger Miller opening the meeting at 8 p.m.
Plans were made for the lodge’s 103 rd anniversary party.
Discussion was held on the Highway 24 history project, and
maintenance and repairs needed at the Bohemian Hall.
Our March 19 meeting was at the Bohemian Hall. A report
was made that we participated with the Highway 24 History
Program, a project of the National Parks Service. We provided
photos and reports of the history of the Czechs in the local
area. This will be incorporated into a traveling history display.
This information will also be used to promote the cultural
diversity of the area. We are very grateful for being included
in the project.
A report was also made that a new floor was installed in
the women’s restroom, repairs were made to the plumbing
vents, and a new coat of wax was added to the floors. Betty
Miller reported that she sent letters to new members, new
50/75-year members, and special guests inviting them to the
anniversary party.
We held our 103 rd anniversary celebration at the Bohemian
Hall on March 24. There was good attendance at this event.
A potluck banquet was held, followed by a cake walk, and
bingo. We were glad to have Levi and Joe, of the L&L
Advisors Agency, in attendance who gave us a presentation
on the available wfla products.
The highlight of the night was a presentation by Kosice
Slovakio, a high school exchange student from Slovakia.
The April 16 meeting was held at the Bohemian Hall. A
report was made on the success of the anniversary party. The
food collected was taken to the Glasco Food Bank.
Plans were made for the May activities, including JOIN
HANDS DAY which was planned for May 5, and consisted
of members and youth making cookies for the Memorial
Day open house. Plans were also made to have a Memorial
Day open house at the Bohemian Hall.
Since wheat harvest was fast approaching it was decided
not to have a meeting in May.
The June 18 meeting was held at the Bohemian Hall. A
report was made on the Memorial Day open house held May
27. We placed flowers and flags on the non-decorated graves
at the Bohemian Cemetery.
The July 16 meeting was held at the Bohemian Hall. A
report was made that earlier in the day the Bohemian Hall
was donated to the Bohemian Cemetery group for their
annual meeting. Members attended the KS State Meeting in
Rossville in April and gave a presentation. A load of clothes
were taken to an area group for the needy.
The August 20 meeting was held at the Bohemian Hall.
Discussion was held on the upcoming Bohemian Reunion.
Due to many activities, the upcoming fall harvest, and wheat
planting, the September meeting was cancelled.
The October 21 meeting was held at the Bohemian Hall.
A report was made on the Bohemian reunion held September
1 at the Bohemian Hall. The use of the hall was donated
to the event. We also assisted with the event. We had Joe,
an agent with the L&L Advisors Agency, in attendance to
answer questions about wfla products.
Secretary Betty Miller also reported she took trick-or-treat
bags to the Glasco Library.
The November 19 meeting was held at the Bohemian
Hall. Discussion was held and plans were made for the
Thanksgiving dance on November 22, and the Christmas
party on December 8. On November 25, we held a drawing
for three youth bikes at the Glasco Christmas open house.
We held our Christmas party at the Bohemian Hall on
December 8. L&L Advisory Services, Salina, KS donated
a ham and turkey to the Christmas party, and Agent Joe
Guillory delivered them to President Roger Miller. We had
social hour at 5 p.m. with the potluck banquet following. The
members enjoyed a gift exchange, cake walk, and bingo. We
then gave all who attended a gift bag with apples, oranges,
and candy.
Canned food was collected and delivered to a local food
bank.
Western View No. 246, Alton, KS
Mary Lou Dugan, Correspondent
Lower Michigan
Members at the
Bull City Café
were: George and
Mary Lou Dugan,
Russell Phalen,
Sarah McCormick,
Rosalie and
Emery Poore,
Venita Cole, Vesta
Russell, and Betty
Lala.
Michigan No. 225, Bannister, MI
Joanne Fornusek, Correspondent
The December meeting was called to order and a moment
of silence was observed, along with the Lord’s Prayer in
memory of Frank Chovanec Jr. Members extend prayers
and sympathy to his family and friends.
Christmas cards with thank-you notes were received
from Owen and Mary Ellen Wingle, and John and Marilyn
Bernath.
20 January 2013

A thank-you letter was received from John S. Burke
Catholic High School in Goshen, NY expressing appreciation
for the generous donation to their Hurricane Sandy relief
efforts. Seventy-one members of their senior class, as well as
several parents and staff members, spent a long day at Breezy
Point, NY cleaning houses, demolishing destroyed homes,
shoveling sand, providing first aid, distributing essential
items, and cooking and serving food to hundreds of hungry
residents, volunteers, and first responders. Sally Stoll reported
that our hall has been designated as an approved disaster
shelter by the American Red Cross.
We are sponsoring a day trip to Firekeepers Casino in
Battle Creek on January 28. For information or to make a
reservation please contact Marge Minarik (989-224-2541).
Craig Zeese, from the Gratiot County Commission on
Aging, addressed the meeting and gratefully accepted more
than $700 in nonperishable food items. These will be used
to make Christmas baskets for over 100 senior citizens in
Gratiot County. A monetary donation will also help support
the county’s Home Delivered Meals Program. A special thank
you is extended to Alma High School Math teachers Ed
Fornusek and Jamie Mallia and their students. They held a
canned food drive and donated more than 400 canned goods
to our efforts for local senior citizens.
Ruth Malek, Sally Stoll, Bob Ladiski, Craig Zeese (Gratiot County Commission
on Aging), and Ed Fornusek with food and a monetary donation to the
Gratiot County Senior center.
We also thank Craig and the Senior Center for donating
some trays to the lodge kitchen. A blood drive for the
American Red Cross was scheduled for December 27 at the
hall, and the annual bowling party for the youth (and the
young at heart) was scheduled for December 28 at Nic’s in
Ovid. Bowling, shoes, pizza, and soft drinks were provided
by the members.
Christmas cards and the lodge calendar were sent to all
senior members.
All members who attended the meeting were presented
beautiful poinsettias from us. Prize winners included Tom
and Diane Bradley and Katie Hucko. Celebrating December
birthdays were Tom Bradley, Katie Hucko, Vlasta Kopta, and
Josie Chapin.
Children on stage at the
Nativity scene.
Following the
meeting, more than
150 children and
adults participated
in the Christmas
Dinner and program.
The youngest children performed Christmas carols on
their rhythm band instruments, and the MI State University
FRATERNAL FOCUS
Russian Singers sang Christmas hymns in the Czech, Slovak,
and German languages. Svate Mikulas (Fr. Rick Bokinskie)
arrived to tell the story of Christmas, accompanied by an
angel and a devil (Katelyn Maxa and Jared Malek). As the
story was told through words and song, the older children
came together on the stage in a live nativity scene. Mary
(Sarah Sopocy) and Joseph (Dylan Kinnamon) were joined
by angels, shepherds, and kings. Then Svate Mikulas and
his helpers handed out apples to all the good children and
adults, and the devil had some coal just in case there were
some who hadn’t been so good. Jingling bells announced
the arrival of Santa Claus (Roger Reha) who joined Svate to
hand out gifts to all the children present.
We wish all its members and friends a happy and healthy
holiday season.
Owosso No. 242, Owosso, MI
Sharon Bronson, Correspondent
We, as Board members, would like to invite all members
to our meetings listed in the calendar section. We need for
more members to get involved with the activities that are
going on. It would really be nice to see some new faces and
to see what is going on with our lodge.
The New Year’s Eve dance tickets are selling very well.
Along with a nice dinner before the dance, we will also be
offering sandwiches and desserts throughout the evening for
those who may be hungry before or after the Happy New
Year. We will be handing out noise makers and hats for those
who would like them as well. To all that come to enjoy ringing
in New Year, the Stan Saylor Band will be providing music.
We have had two events recently, the Fair Board had
their Christmas party and Owosso Memorial also had their
Christmas party. Thank you for choosing us for your events,
we really do appreciate it.
The dumpling sale was very good. We had a lot of repeat
orders and hope to again have repeats at Easter time.
Our Christmas party is around the corner, and we hope
to see a lot of you there. Santa is coming and we are having
a potluck with the members making meatballs, scalloped
potatoes, and bringing a dish to pass. A gift bag will be given
to each child consisting of hand sanitizer, Kleenex, lip gloss,
candy, toys, and pencils. We hope to have enough scarves for
everyone. We also have fleece scarves for those who would
prefer them.
A thank-you note was received from the Salvation Army
for the food that was donated from our Halloween party.
We received notice that a member who has been with us
for 96 years is to receive an Honorary Member certificate as
soon as possible. Congratulations Blanche Barta.
We received a Christmas card from Jana and Libor. Let us
remember to listen to her program on WOAP on Saturday
mornings at 10 a.m. Tom Bradley also has a Polka program
on WOES. We should let them know that we are enjoying
what they do.
The election of offices was held and the results are as
follows: President Joe Sovis, Vice President David Hood,
Treasurer Jerry Francis, Secretary Sharon Bronson, and
Trustee Jo Scollon.
Our insurance agent, Jerry Krsik, came and gave out
calendars and note pads, and answered a few questions
concerning the lodge; thanks Jerry. Randy Thayer also
showed up to ask and answer questions as well; thanks Randy.
Thank you Vesela Kapela Band, for the wonderful evening
January 2013 21

FRATERNAL FOCUS
of a variety of music on a Sunday afternoon. It was very much
enjoyed by all who attended.
The meeting dates were agreed on at the November
meeting. The extra Polka dances have not been scheduled
at this time.
Minnesota
Hopkins No. 11, Hopkins, MN
Pamela Kotval, President
Hopkins members had a very merry family Christmas potluck
on December 2.
After dinner, we had a most jolly time playing bingo. We
had a wide variety of prizes that winners could choose from!
We also played a number of special games where the winners
received Target gift cards. Special thanks to Deb Brown
who organized the bingo game program, printed the cards,
and brought her dabbers for all to use. We definitely want
to do this again! Several members also brought and donated
unwrapped gifts for the ResourceWest Toy Chest toy drive.
We’re making plans to organize a “wfla Family Night” at a
St. Paul Saints game sometime in 2013. Doesn’t that sound
like fun?
Ken Shauer and Sandy
Fritzen volunteering at
ICLD.
Members Ken
Shauer and Sandy
Fritzen have been
volunteering at ICLD packing Christian materials that are
sent around the world.
If you want to be on an email reminder list for our 2013
meetings and activities, contact President Pamela Kotval at
pakotval@msn.com, or call 952-944-0745 to be put on a
phone reminder list.
We won’t meet again until 1:30 p.m. on February 10 at
ResourceWest. We wish everyone a very merry Christmas
and a healthy, happy New Year!
Lumir No. 34, Hutchinson, MN
Jolen Bentz, Correspondent
Thank you to the dedicated officers/members who
attended 2012 business meetings and planned activities for
the membership and community. Many volunteer hours were
spent on the “details” of events that were successfully carried
out on behalf of wfla. To you, who volunteered for projects
when called upon, we extend a special thank you and hope
that you will join us on future activities. While members
anticipate 2013 to be equally busy, the officers are asking
for your interest and participation in the fraternal system.
Goodie baskets were assembled and delivered to the
local newspapers in appreciation for their services. Meals
on Wheels recipients and drivers were remembered with
Christmas treats from Lumir members.
New Year’s Eve snack plates were made and delivered to
Lakeside Apartment seniors, who were surprised and very
appreciative!
Zare Svobody No. 38, Austin, MN
Ordella Rolfson, Correspondent
We met November 8 at the home of Secretary Louise
Weber. President Ordella Rolfson called the meeting to order.
Louise gave a report from the state meeting. She reported
that we had turned in 27 lbs of can tabs at the Convention.
She stated that next year’s Convention would be held in New
Prague.
Attendance prizes were awarded to Robert Baley Sr., Rose
Anderson, and Mildred Baley.
After the meeting we had lunch and played dirty bingo.
Zare Zapadu No. 44, Hayward, MN
Marie Krikava, Correspondent
We held our annual Appreciation dinner and Christmas
party on November 30 at our historic Brick Hall. We enjoyed
a delicious catered meal. Dale and Elaine Lukes entertained
us with their antique Viktrola music. We sang Happy Birthday
to Dale as it was his birthday.
President Jim Benesh presented Vicki
Walker with her 50-year pin at our
last meeting.
Following our dinner,
President Benesh opened our
meeting by congratulating
Vicki Walker and presenting
her with her 50-year pin and a
corsage. Our two 75-year pin
recipients, Doris Van House
and Robert Lukes were unable to attend.
Get-well cards were sent to several members who were sick.
Our new agent, Robert Karkoska Jr. introduced himself
and spoke to our group. We are happy to welcome two new
members he signed up: Bonita Belshan and Arlene Hajek.
We held the election of officers as follows: President Dan
Rayman, Vice President Dan Belshan, Secretary Marie
Krikava, Treasurers Marcella Nelson and Dennis Rayman,
Trustees Emil Prantner, Evelyn Svenson, and Dale Lukes.
We thank Jim Benesh and Jim Becker for their many years
of service as president and treasurer of our lodge.
Members brought many lbs of food for the Salvation Army
Food Shelf. Dennis and Gail Rayman delivered the food.
World War II veterans Milo Belshan, Emil Prantner, and
Ernie Benesh have begun a project to erect a memorial for all
veterans at the Bohemian National Cemetery. An account has
been opened at the Citizens State Bank of Glenville for donations.
A grant is being applied
for and several organizations
are joining hands with them to
help with matching funds. We
will also join with the groups
at their Pancake Breakfast and
bake sale to be held January 13
at the Glenville Legion with
proceeds going for the veteran’s
memorial.
Georgia Jech with donated can tabs
she saved with help from friends and
neighbors.
22 January 2013

Members assembled fruit and goodie plates and delivered
them to our shut-ins the week of December 10.
On November 9, member Georgia Jech donated a lot of
can tabs at our morning coffee. Georgia and friends from
Waterville Camping Park saved can tabs this last year for our
Ronald McDonald House project.
Owatonna No. 127, Owatonna, MN
Dan Stursa, President
Regional Thrift Store
Manager Sara Pirkl,
Case Manager Carla
Thull, accepting
a donation from
members Debbie
Burnham, Dan Stursa,
Julie Kriesel, and Kim
Stursa.
Dan Stursa presenting State Chairman
Mike Pierce a check for Pheasants for
Vets.
Zahrada Minnesoty No. 168, Mahnomen, MN
Pearl Uhlir, Correspondent
Members met on November 18 at the Red Apple Café in
Mahnomen. President Jim Krajsa called the meeting to order
at 5 p.m.
We have two new members.
Members have collected 36.5 lbs of can tabs so far.
A thank-you note was read from the Lakes Crisis and
Resource Center for items that had been donated.
We also made a donation to the Hospital Auxiliary.
Ledec No. 192, Alexandria, MN
Donald Trousil, Correspondent
Over 50 adults and children attended our Halloween party.
The night concluded with stew and caramel apples.
Youth at our Halloween
party.
The Thanksgiving
dinner and meeting
was held at the
hall on November
18. We maintained
all officers as in
the previous year.
Larry Kotval gave a report on the MN Scholarship Fund.
Due to a snowstorm, we only had 13 people at our
Christmas party. We were happy to see our Agent Ron Pachan
in attendance. Kevin Klimek won the crystal glasses and wine
from our fall scholarship raffle.
Bernice, Macy, and Sidney Trousil went shopping for our
Angel Tree recipient, a benefit for needy children. Our food
FRATERNAL FOCUS
shelf drive netted a large amount of groceries and money.
When Darren Radil received his American F.F.A. degree,
he joined his brothers Matthew, Dwight, and sister Melinda
in receiving this prestigious award.
Boleslav Jablonsky No. 219, Strathcona, MN
Marvel Pesek, Secretary
We held our annual appreciation meal and program on
November 18 at the Daug House Restaurant in Thief River
Falls at noon. After the meal was served and prizes were given
out, President Maxine Olson called the meeting to order.
An election of officers was the first thing on the agenda
and all officers will remain the same.
We have two members in nursing homes this year, so we
will give gifts to them for Christmas.
Donations were made to the Salvation Army and Border
State Bank for two giving tree gifts.
The State Meeting will be in Alexandria.
A donation was sent to a member who recently had surgery
for cancer.
Thank-you cards were read from three different nursing
homes by the youth members visited and donated candy to
for Halloween.
In the past couple months, members have donated their
time to help at the group home, and helped make food baskets
for shut-ins for Thanksgiving. Members also donated blood.
Willow River No. 346, Willow River, MN
Barbara Alm, Correspondent
The entertainment we sponsored for the residents at the
Moose Lake Augustana Care Center on October 6 featured
the accordion music of Florian Chmielewski. We enjoyed ice
cream sundaes, which were served by members Barb Larson,
Rose Mielke, Braxton Waldhalm, and Barb Alm. We also
provided entertainment by Jay Poslusny (guitar and fiddle) at
the Essentia Care Center in Sandstone, MN on November 9.
(l-r) Members Barb Alm,
Braxton Waldhalm, and
Rose Mielke presenting
lap robes.
Members and friends
who participated at
the Care Centers were
(l-r) Marilyn Kiehl,
Florian Chmielewski,
Rose Mielke, Braxton
Waldhalm, Mary
Wiggens, Barb Alm,
and Barb Larson.
After the festivities
in Moose Lake, we
presented residents with lap robes made by Rose Ann
Doboszenski.
For the annual Veterans Day dinner on November 5, our
juvenile members made patriotic thank-you badges for the
veterans attending, and also served as waitresses.
January 2013 23

FRATERNAL FOCUS
At our November meeting, we re-elected our current
officers to serve in 2013. We will still be meeting the second
Wednesday of the month at the Community Room in Wild
River Apartments in Sandstone, MN.
Our next meeting will be February 13.
Meadowlands Jr. No. 361, Meadowlands, MN
Pat Mathison, Correspondent
We held our last regular meeting of 2012 on December 9
at the Manor. Our condolences go out to the family of long
time member Reeda Valla. A memorial was sent.
We have a new juvenile member, Elias Letsos.
Carolers at our
December Meeting.
E a r l y i n
December, Helen
A br a m s on a nd
Judy Miller boxed
up several knitted
caps. Helen and
her husband David
delivered them to
the Seafarers Ministry in Duluth. These caps were among
many distributed to crew members aboard foreign ships
coming to port. We made a donation to purchase materials
for this project earlier this year.
Gene Anderson models
a knitted cap for Helen
and Judy.
Pat delivered
some much needed
items collected for
Range Regional
Animal Rescues in
Hibbing in time for
Christmas. Donations are always appreciated this time of
year.
The election of officers was as follows: President Margaret
Larsen, Secretary/Correspondent Pat Mathison, and
Treasurer Bonnie Van Duker serving another year. Jim
Simunovich is our new vice president.
Following the meeting, we were treated to holiday music
performed by the South Ridge Community Choir. We all
enjoyed refreshments after the program.
Nebraska
Nebraska No. 3, Crete, NE
Cheryl Retherford, Secretary Pro tem
Members met at 11:30 a.m. at the 9 th Street Grill for our
annual Christmas dinner on December 8. Following the
meal, the meeting was held at Centennial Terrace with Viola
Pracheil presiding.
A moment of silence was held for Alyce Kemper and
Lorraine Hrdlicka. A thank-you note was read from the Alyce
Kemper’s family for the memorial.
The members reviewed their 2013 Calendar of Events
schedule.
The birthday song was sung to Ed Patak celebrating on
December 13.
The Crete Manor volunteer bingo was scheduled for
December 31. Fruit baskets were delivered to shut-ins before
Christmas.
Plzen No. 9, Morse Bluff, NE
Elaine Vech, Correspondent
We held a bicycle giveaway at the Morse Bluff Fire
Departments Halloween Costume Contest. The winner was
Brecken Frana, 2-year old son of Kevin and Kiley Frana of
Malmo, NE.
Bike winner Brecken Frana.
Members met for our annual
Thanksgiving meeting
on November 15. The meeting
was held at Rawhide Restaurant
in North Bend. Agent Delmer
Wondercheck and wife, Cindy,
were guests.
The meeting was called to order by President Keith Racek.
The members collected and turned in 41 lbs of food items.
Members were reminded to bring hygiene products for Care
Corps, and pop tabs for Ronald McDonald House.
Agent Delmer Wondercheck was introduced along with his
wife, Cindy. He updated the members with wfla information
and current Life Insurance products, single premium life
insurance, and annuities, etc. Members were asked to visit
with him if they had any question about anything from wfla.
Members enjoyed visiting and reviewing this year’s events
and activities.
Dennice No. 14, Ord, NE
Diane Spilinek, Correspondent
Members met October 28 at the North Loup Cafe. The
volunteer hour’s sheet was passed around, and letters from
the Home Office were read. Our new members in attendance
were welcomed.
A moment of silence was observed in memory of our
departed member Hank Benda; a card and memorial was
sent to the family.
Birthday cards were signed for Paul Maly who celebrated
a September birthday and Minnie Maly who celebrated an
October birthday. Both are long time devoted wfla members.
Thank-you notes were read from Eldene Norseen for the
50-75 year party in which she was an honoree and Hank
Benda’s family for the memorial.
Two members attended the Slavin No. 112 50 and 75-year
member party that included two guest speakers from the
Czech Republic.
Several donations were made to Goodwill recently by
members.
Welcome letters have been mailed to the new members
from the September meeting. A preliminary awards form
was completed, and members discussed completed and other
possible activities.
We met November 11 at the North Loup Cafe. The
24 January 2013

volunteer hour sheet was passed around. Letters from the
Home Office were read.
A moment of silence was observed for Veteran’s Day to
show appreciation and honor our veterans past and present.
Members hosted a card party on November 17 at the Ord
Senior Center at 1 p.m. with 22 members and guests attending.
Members served a light lunch following an afternoon of
cards and socializing.
Donations were made to the Ord Fire Department, the
North Loup Fire Department, the Elba Fire Department,
and the Ord Food Pantry.
Diane Spilinek was presented a wfla Lodge Leader
Certificate at the conclusion of the meeting by fellow
members.
The next meeting will be February 10, 2013 at the North
Loup Café at 11 a.m., dinner and socializing immediately
following.
Zapadni Svornost No. 28, Clarkson, NE
Stanton Hrouda, Correspondent
Members met on December 2 at the Clarkson City Hall
for the annual Christmas meal and meeting. We provided
the meat, and members brought many delicious side items.
The meeting was opened by President Hrouda. The monthly
report from the Home Office and Newsletter were read.
A thank-you note was read from the Contact Center,
because we donated food and nonperishable items every
month. A personal thank you was given by our adopted
grandma for the get-well wishes and cards.
Jokes were read and enjoyed.
Members reported on recycling 645 lbs of newspaper and
cardboard.
We have set our meeting dates for 2013. Please see the
calendar section for the dates and details.
Thank you to everyone who brought can tabs throughout
the year. We collected just over 5 lbs of tabs. Members
Tammy and Brooke Fossum will deliver them to the Ronald
McDonald House in Sioux Falls. Members also brought
Campbell’s Soup Labels and Box Tops for Education.
Members agreed to make a monetary donation to Brookes
Buddies as they will take part in the Juvenile Diabetes
Research Walk. Members donated 73 lbs of canned food to
the Salvation Army Soup Kitchen.
Děkuji to all members who volunteered their time during
the last year to support events that have enriched the community
and lives of members and family. I would encourage
you as members to attend a lodge-sponsored event this year.
We are constantly looking for more active members to help
share the fraternal spirit with the community, and we will
welcome and support your ideas and participation.
The rest of the afternoon was spent playing bingo and
socializing.
Our next meeting will be February 3.
Vladislav I No. 29, Prague, NE
Ilene Divis, Correspondent
Members held the Christmas party on December 7 at
Abie Place in Abie NE. We held a short meeting prior to the
party and we all wore our wfla vests. We attracted a lot of
attention. Several people commented on the vests, and some
also inquired as to what wfla stood for. We gladly let them
know what wfla stands for.
FRATERNAL FOCUS
All enjoyed a fish meal and music by the Czech Friends
Band. We also enjoyed socializing.
Lipany No. 56, Lynch, NE
Marita Placek, Correspondent
On November 18, members served a noon Thanksgiving
dinner of ham and turkey with all the trimmings to residents
of the Ponca Valley Court.
Cecho-Moravan No. 68, Brainard, NE
Dorothy Schultz, Correspondent
Members and guests enjoyed a delicious Christmas meal on
December 9 at Sunshine Ct. We were happy to have Monica
Polivka join us and hope she will come again.
Darlene Rech, Jeffrey
Rech, and Shirley at
the State Meeting in
Du Bois.
We exchanged
gifts (Christmas
or n a m e nt s) t o
the reading of
Christmas with the
Wright Family.
Card bingo was
enjoyed by the group. Cheryl Kliment won the prize.
Happy birthday went to Doris Schultz who brought cake
and ice cream for her birthday.
Tabor No. 74, Dorchester, NE
Marilyn Clark, Correspondent
We held our Christmas supper on December 4, and had a
short meeting afterwards.
Marlene made the plates of goodies for our members in
nursing homes. They were delivered by Lila Pribyl, Jim and
Dona Heeren, and Wayne and Marilyn Clark.
We sent 29 cards to hospitalized members in 2012.
Donations from us were sent to the Dorchester Volunteer
Fire and Rescue Department, The Crete Volunteer Fire and
Rescue Department, and to Crete Cares.
Members went to the home of Josephine Slama on
November 16 to present her with a wfla Honorary
Membership certificate. Family members Gene Slama and
Richard and Dianne Slama were also present. Marlene
Stehlik, Olga Bruha, Corrine Tyser, and Wayne and Marilyn
Clark also attended. Marilyn brought cinnamon rolls and
the Slamas served coffee for all to enjoy. See photo on the
Spotlight page 15.
Thank-you letters were received from Josephine Slama
and Corrine Tyser. Also, two thank-you notes from the
Dorchester Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department were
received. We provided bottled water while fighting two fires
in our community, and for the cookies we baked for 9/11
Recognition Day.
Milligan No. 76, Milligan, NE
Scott Oliva, Correspondent
Arlene Kassik and Merle and Betty Buzek attended the
State Convention in Du Bois on Sept 22. They reported it
was a very nice rural setting and a great event.
We participated in the last cruise night of the year, which
January 2013 25

FRATERNAL FOCUS
included a bonfire with a wiener roast and a free outdoor
movie, The Great Race. This was presented by the Milligan
Community Club in Centennial Garden. We furnished hot
dogs, pop, and popcorn for this event on September 27.
On November 10, the annual Holiday Extravaganza Craft
Show was held at the Auditorium. The Auditorium main
floor and the south room were completely full of exhibits as
well as attendees, and the main street was filled with cars.
The very next day, the Auditorium was again furnished free
of charge to the American Legion Post for Veterans Day
Services.
On November 25 at noon, we had our Christmas party
at Evening with Friends Restaurant with almost 60 in attendance.
We used this event to honor our 50 and 75-year
honorees as follows: 75-year members were, Rose Marie
Hulse, Arnold Nadherny, Bernard Zeleny, Leo Soukup, and
Betty Brown. 50-year member was Tom Vossler.
Seated are the 75-year
members and one 50year
member standing.
This fall, John
Zelenka and Scott
Oliva have been
s p e nd i n g t i me
on maintenance
projects for the
Auditorium. They
spent one afternoon sealing cracks on the roof around gutter
drains and abutments. Also, two afternoons were spent
sealing the cracks between the sidewalk and the north side
of the building. They also put up the Christmas tree again
this year in the front north window. This adds quite a bit of
Christmas atmosphere to Main street.
The Chili contest will be held on January 27, 2013 at the
Underground. The NE Wine Festival will be held at the
Auditorium 2 p.m. on February 12.
Premysl Otakar II No. 84, Table Rock, NE
Dorothy Fritch, Secretary
Winners of the
bicycles we gave away
at the Table Rock
Community Christmas
on December 1 were
Deacon Bernadt and
Rebecca Watson.
Jan Kollar No. 101, Du Bois, NE
Mary Barker, Correspondent
Members met at the hall on November 5.
The Halloween Hayrack ride was honored to have over 300
attendees with eighteen members helping. The Halloween
dance was also well attended.
There was a Christmas party but no New Year’s dance
because of too many conflicts.
The December 3 meeting was held at the hall.
A Build-Your-Lodge soup luncheon will be held for the
community. We will have Christmas treats for the children.
John Brown brought tabs and pill bottles for collections
to be delivered in December.
More eyeglasses have been sent to the Lions Club in KS.
Slavin No. 112, Comstock, NE
Shirley Knapp, Secretary
Members met December 6 at the home of Shirley Knapp
for a soup supper, followed by the meeting and gift exchange.
Special guests were Delmer Wondercheck and his wife,
Cindy, and Myron Osentowski.
A thank-you card was received from Wayne Bilka, Jr. for
winning a bike at the Craft Fair in October.
Christmas and get-well cards were signed for members who
are ill, in nursing homes, or shut-ins. Christmas cards were
sent to the two foreign exchange students from the Czech
Republic who are attending school in Arcadia, NE.
We will host the District meeting on April 14, 2013.
Foreign exchange
students (l-r) Jakub
(Kuba) Albl and Matej
Sestak shared a power
point presentation of
their homeland, the
Czech Republic.
Happy bike winners
were Avalon Quick,
with Ina Novak, and
Wayne Bilka Jr. (r) at
the Craft fair.
Cech No. 152, Farwell, NE
Dorothy Bonczynski, Correspondent
The meeting was called to order by President Emil Kment.
After we enjoyed a very delicious Christmas dinner, a member
treated us to ice cream for his birthday. We sang Happy
Birthday to Milton Nesiba.
The meeting was very long, as we got everything finalized
for the upcoming year.
We held the election of officers and they are as follows:
President Emil Kment, Vice President Carol Jerabek,
Treasurer Evangeline Obermiller, Co-signer Marge, and
Secretary Dorothy Bonczynski.
A donation for Christmas treats was given to the com-
26 January 2013

munity. A special donation was given to the Food Pantry
and also to a family in need.
We are playing bingo at a rest home in St. Paul. Card fronts
were sent to Channing, TX to the sister’s home. Paper, plastic,
and can tabs were brought.
Five members gave to the bloodmobile and one member
donated food and worked at the mobile.
We sent out two get-well cards.
Zest No. 296, Omaha, NE
Ernost Wesolowski, Secretary
On November 20, members and guests met at Sokol
South Omaha Hall. Guests were Tom Taylor, Kim Lee,
and Agent Don Gillett. Don spoke on insurance products.
We all enjoyed a mini meatloaf and potato dish prepared by
Marilyn and John Slezak, plus potluck side dishes prepared
by members. Thanks to our kitchen helpers Marilyn and
John Slezak, Fran Riha, Joann Forman, and Elsie Snowdon.
Thanks also to Daniel Stout for serving beverages.
Marilyn Slezak installed the 2013 officers as follows:
President Lillian Komor, Vice President Alvin Divorky,
Secretary/Treasurer Ernost Wesolowski, Correspondent
Doris Ettlin, Scholarship Records Frances Riha, Guide
and Kitchen supplies Martha Talmon, Auditors Dorothy
Mengedoht, Elsie Snowdon, and Max Snowdon.
Officers: (l-r) Auditors
Max Snowdon and Elsie
Snowdon, President
Lillian Komor, Sec/
Treasurer Ernost
Wesolowski, Auditor
Dorothy Mengedoht,
Scholarship Records
Frances Riha, Vice
President Alvin Divoky,
and Correspondent
Doris Ettlin.
A moment of silence was observed for our deceased member
Helen Volenec. A sympathy card and scholarship memorial
was sent to the family. Our members extend their sympathy
to the family. Member Frank Kostka died September 27. He
was leader and accordion player for the Kostka Czech Polka
Band. He was joined by Red Raven Orchestra leader and
drummer Edward Svoboda. They both joined several Czech
polka bands from the South Omaha area.
Welcome to new member Natalia Carson-Moreno. She’s
already been attending meetings with her mother Jessy.
Thank-you notes were received from Frank Kostka’s family
and Bob Forman’s family for scholarship memorials, Amanda
Dwyer for scholarship, St. Bernadette Catholic School for
labels and box tops, Siena Francis House for donations,
Children’s Hospital for donation, and the National Czech
& Slovak Museum & Library in Cedar Rapids for the old
Lodge 72 banner.
Correspondence was received from family service and the
Salvation Army asking for donations.
Scholarship donations were given by Tom Lee, Jessy
Carson, and Lillian Komor.
Collections were US Marine Toys for Tots, food for Stephen
Center, can tabs for Ronald McDonald House, used stamps
for Boystown, labels and box tops. Seventy scarves were made
by Debra Dugan and Kim Lee for Stephen Center.
On November 21, Lillian Komor presented an Appreciation
Award to former member Rose Nemecek for her many years
FRATERNAL FOCUS
of devoted service to our lodge. We miss you Rose. Lillian
also delivered eyeglasses to the Lions Club.
We made a donation to the Omaha Quilt Guild.
Our next meeting will be February 19, weather permitting.
We invite No. 45 for cookies, desserts, and beverages at 6
p.m., and then the District 1 Meeting. Our membership
meeting will follow the District Meeting.
Karlin Junior No. 342, Spencer, NE
Darlene Cizek, Correspondent
Members and guests met at noon on December 2 for
their annual Christmas potluck. Mary Finnegan of the
Nebraska-Inn catered the prime rib and members furnished
side dishes and desserts.
Plates were filled for two of our members who are home
bound and delivered to their home. Christmas cards were
signed by all in attendance for two of our members who are
in a nursing home.
A short business meeting was held following the dinner. We
made a monetary donation to the Spencer Fire Department.
Darlene reported that a Thanksgiving card was sent to
Rosalie as well as get-well cards.
A thank-you note was received from Alexys Nicolaus. She
was one of the bike giveaway winners at Wild Turkey Days.
We took part in the 2012 Boyd County Toys for Tots.
Saline Center No. 389, Western, NE
Joan Kotas, Secretary
Our newest members, Mari-Ann Pesek, Roxanne Hayek,
Kim and Kaleb Kotas, Denise, Mike, and Coltin Rezabek
furnished cookies for the Red Cross Blood drive on November
27 in Wilber at Sokol Hall. The canteen was sponsored by
our members. Other workers were Lowell Kotas, Nancy Fritz,
Rita Patton, Bobbie Ripa, and Joan Kotas. Several members
also donated blood.
We honored our 50 and 75-year members, their families,
and the volunteer members and nonmembers on November
30 with a delicious meal catered by Lefty’s.
50 and 75-year
members who received
their pins.
President Kotas
presented 50-year
pins to Larry
Zumpfe and Darrel
Hayek, and 75year
pins to Leroy
Duchek and Lavern Hayek. Once again we had the privilege
to recognize another father/son team: Laverne and Darrel
Hayek.
Many juvenile members were also present. The children
enjoyed the colors, coloring books, and a guessing game. The
winner was Kelsey Zoubek.
Thanks to Denise Rezabek for her contribution of used
batteries.
The annual Christmas plates of treats were delivered by
Joan Kotas. We provided these to members 75 years and older
living within a 25 mile radius of the hall. This custom was
started many years ago and is still carried on today. The
January 2013 27

FRATERNAL FOCUS
monthly treats were delivered to our youth project, Caterpillar
Corner.
Youth who attended the
meeting.
We look forward
to the New Year
with new ideas,
new events, and
new and former
members attending
our monthly
meetings.
Lincoln No. 426, Lincoln, NE
Velma Kotas, Correspondent
Another year has passed and we wish all of you a wonderful
New Year, with many accomplishments and new friends in
2013.
We had a happy busy December. Denise Spale was the
chairperson of “Ringing Bells” for the Salvation Army. We
rang the bells at Russ’s Market in Lincoln on December 5.
It was really fun, and if you needed some help with the
Christmas spirit, it sure did help. Members that rang bells
reported how generous the public was with their donations,
thus helping our community. Please know we appreciate the
generosity from the shoppers and the beautiful and warm
smiles we received from the public.
Our visiting committee, which consists of Betty Soukup,
Donna Aschwege, and Erma Ruhl, reported visiting the
following members of our lodge: Anne Vosika, Erma Rohla,
Marvel Svoboda, and Helen Brchan.
We had the last activity/meeting of 2012 on December 16
as we celebrated Christmas. Fifty lodge members and guests
enjoyed a Christmas party at the Knolls restaurant. We
enjoyed a very lovely atmosphere in a private room with a
buffet.
A certificate was presented to Tyler Hosek, who was our
Youth Chairman, for doing two JOIN HANDS DAYS. Tyler
recruited youth to work with us and we enjoyed the scouts
that Tyler provided to get our work done.
A poinsettia plant and feather brush was presented to
Betty Soukup for the fine job she does as our kitchen chairman.
We do not always appreciate those who quietly work
for an organization, and never complain or remark about the
duties. This would describe Betty, as she has done this duty
for over 20 years.
A well earned certificate entitled You Make a Difference was
presented to Susan Casne. Susan has provided our youth
with activities at each and every meeting. This past year, we
have enjoyed our youth membership’s friends. Susan also
reported on the Fraternal Congress she attended. At this
Christmas party, Susan recognized our youth and had the
youth talk about themselves by stating what they were doing
and reporting about schools they attended and etc. Susan
reported on the scholarships that are available from the
Home Office. Our membership will continue to assist with
this project. In 2013, Susan will try to get a website for our
youth, as she learned about this at the Fraternal Congress.
For entertainment, we played some games. Prizes consisted
of home baked goodies. We ended our party with singing
Christmas carols, with Lori Vasa playing the accordion while
we sang. Our children gave their version of Rudolph the Red
Nose Reindeer, and rang bells as we sang Silver Bells.
Our members brought socks, gloves, mittens, sweaters,
bedding, caps, and etc for the City Mission; our basket
was overflowing. Also, food was brought in for the food
bank. Thank you members for being so very generous. May
God bless 2013 with happiness and love.
Loup Valley No. 437, Ord, NE
Sandy Psota, Correspondent
Members met at 1 p.m. on December 2 at the home of
Agnes Janda with special guests Agent Delmer Wondercheck
and his wife, Cindy.
We held the election of officers and they are as follows:
President Doris David, Vice President Agnes Janda, Secretary
Sandy Psota, Treasurer Linda Ptacnik, Trustee Don Psota
and Delores Skolil.
Our display table at the
Valley Fire Winterfest
Parade.
Youth enjoyed cookies,
hot chocolate, pencils,
and brochures.
The social hour
we hosted at Valley
Fire in Ord, during
and following the Winterfest, was a huge success. We plan
to host it again next year.
A long discussion was held on planning the calendar for
2013 with special projects planned for each month. The
main goals for 2013 will focus on community activities and
fraternal sponsored activities. An information letter and
calendar will be mailed to all inactive members.
We plan to donate items to our local food pantry at our
January meeting.
The meeting was adjourned and a delicious Christmas
lunch was enjoyed. We wish all our members a Merry
Christmas and Happy New year. We pray for rain to relieve
the drought the area is experiencing.
North Dakota
Kosobud No. 106, Lankin, ND
JoAnn Ryba, Correspondent
Members met on December 2 at the Lankin Senior Center.
A delicious potluck meal was enjoyed by all. A moment of
silence was held for deceased member Clarence Trenda.
We held an election of officers with all officers retaining
their positions as follows: President Daniel Kouba, Vice
President Mildred Machart, Treasurer Thom Shirek, and
Secretary/Correspondent JoAnn Ryba. Marlene Kovarik
28 January 2013

emains cemetery treasurer and John Shirek, Dennis Kovarik,
and Laddie Bata are on the cemetery board.
Donations were given to the Michigan Ambulance, Park
River Ambulance, Adams, Lankin, and Fordville First
Response Units, Park River Pregnancy Health Center, and
Park River Hospice Program.
Pam, Karen, and JoAnn served dinner on Thanksgiving
Day at the Grand Forks Northland Mission.
Flip tops were given to the Ronald McDonald House.
Hodonin No. 188, Minot, ND
Joan Smatt Peterson, Correspondent
Our Christmas party was held at the Senior Center
downtown. We missed two of our ailing members. Members
who could not attend will be visited and a poinsettia plant
presented. Gifts were exchanged all around and included the
Center’s two servers.
A thank-you note from Joan Peterson was read in
remembrance of her husband, Gordon.
The Salvation Army is requesting bell ringers in Minot,
but we will have to decline as our wrists are not as strong as
they used to be. Any other donations will be delayed until
January.
Agent O’Clair from Bismarck attended our meeting but
was unable to contact inactive members as anticipated. She
will attempt again for January.
Oklahoma
Jan Zizka No. 67, Yukon, OK
Elaine Benda, President
I am writing this just after getting home from our annual
Christmas party. As always, it was wonderful thanks to the
efforts of so many! We had a delicious potluck meal, with
the tasty pork provided by the lodge. We were privileged
to be able to watch a lovely Christmas program with talent
provided by our younger members. We are blessed by such
awesome talent! We enjoyed fun and fellowship, but we
missed those of you who could not be there. Our next article
will have more details and pictures of this enjoyable afternoon
and evening.
Members at the Christmas party.
Members enjoying food at the
Christmas party.
Make a New Year’s resolution
to come dance more at the Czech Hall and try to come
to one extra function in 2013.
We have two special dances in February, the annual
Valentine’s Dance and also our Masopust (Czech Mardi
Gras) Dance. Check our website at www.czechhall.com for
details on dates and times.
FRATERNAL FOCUS
Oregon
Krasna Budoucnost No. 222, Malin, OR
Karen Rasmussen, Correspondent
Members had their Annual Christmas dinner on December
9. Tables were adorned by Santa’s, Snowmen, and candy
canes. Forty members and guests attended, and enjoyed a
lovely table of desserts; all homemade. All had a wonderful
time. Goodie bags were given out to members and guest.
Children who attended the dinner.
Members at our
Christmas dinner.
We had a short meeting after
dinner. It is time to get ready
for our annual Jaternice Dinner.
Members talked about getting
five new serving tables that
are narrow, so the servers don’t
have to reach to give guests their food at the dinner. We also
discussed getting a bigger roaster to put the Jaternice in.
The election of officers was held with all officers retaining
their positions as follows: President David Victorine,
Vice President Jenny Miller, Secretary/Treasurer Karen
Rasmussen.
December birthdays were read.
We will be having our annual Jaternice Dinner on February
17, 2013. Preorders for Jaternice and strudel, will be allowed
as we had done for the last two years. All are welcome to order
for local pickup only. Preorder forms will be mailed out after
Christmas.
Hope all had a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
South Dakota
South Dakota wfla Scholarship Fund
The Scholarship Board wishes to remind eligible students of
the April 1 deadline to apply for the two SD wfla Scholarships
of $250. The application 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.
Star of South Dakota No. 71, Utica, SD
Shirley Woods, Correspondent
Members hosted a lunch for the 50 and 75-year members
on December 2, at JoDean’s Restaurant in Yankton, SD. We
had four 50-year members honored and six 75-year members.
Our members were thrilled to have five honorees and their
guest attend the meal, along with several other members.
January 2013 29

FRATERNAL FOCUS
Members enjoying
dinner at the 50 and
75-year celebration.
(l-r) Robert Pechous 50year,
Clifford Dvoracek
75-year, Victor Novak
75-year, Clarence
Sykora 75-year, and
Kenneth Vanecek,
50-year.
After the meal,
President Alois
Ruman and
Secretary Shirley
Woods presented
each honoree with
a certificate and a wfla pin. Honorees who were unable
to attend the meal will have their certificates and pins
mailed to their home. We all enjoyed the day honoring our
distinguished guests.
Texas
Dallas No. 401, Dallas, TX
Sarah Martin, Correspondent
Members had a wonderful Christmas party at the Catholic
Czech Club on December 2. Lunch was catered by Michna’s
BBQ, and music performed by the Czech Harvesters. Santa
came to see the children. We had a few raffles, and a silent
auction. We donated to a needy family to help them have a
better Christmas.
On December 9, a lot of our members attended the Czech
Club Christmas party. We enjoyed a good meal, and nice
prizes.
On December 10, we attended the Fraternal Council
meeting. There was good food, bingo, good prizes, and
another silent auction.
On December 13, Sarah Martin helped pack and deliver
over 400 bags to patients at VA Medical Center Dallas.
Sarah Martin (second
from left) with ROTC
Cadets and volunteers
from GE delivering
Christmas bags to
patients at VA Medical
Center.
Many of our members also attended a party for Laddie and
Helen Gajdica. It was a great time of fellowship with more
good food and music.
This has really been a busy time for all of us. Hopefully
everyone has a great and safe holidays.
Texasska Libuse No. 402, Ennis, TX
Katrina Evans, Correspondent
Our entry in the Parade
of Lights in downtown
Ennis on November 29.
Bike winners at our Christmas party
were Georgia Tabb and Sutton
Maddox, with President Stuart
Hamilton.
Washington
Seattle No. 181, Seattle, WA
Marjorie Bianco, Secretary
A special officer planning meeting was held on December
10 at the Cheesecake Factory Restaurant in Tukwila, WA.
Rosie Bodien, Paula Hughart, Patricia Klein, and Marjorie
Bianco gathered to help plan our 2013 calendar. New
meeting places, social activities, and potential community
service projects were discussed. We thank these members for
devoting extra time on lodge matters during the busy holiday
season.
Paula Hughart, Rosie
Bodien, Marjorie
Bianco, and Patricia
Klein gathered for a
business luncheon to
plan 2013 events.
Bob Vernon and
Marjorie Bianco
represented us
at the WA State
Fraternal Alliance (WSFA) meeting that was held in Everett,
WA on November 17. The next WSFA meeting will be held
in Ellensburg on February 16 and the annual Convention
will be held in Yakima on May 18 and 19. All members
are eligible and invited to participate. If interested, contact
Marjorie at 425-483-4296 or bobv.home@frontier.com.
Members and Czech
Slovak Interest Group
members smile after
feasting on Czech and
Slovak cuisine at the
November “Giving
Thanks” potluck.
Our members
provided greatly
needed volunteer
support to the
30 January 2013

Northshore Performing Arts Center during all four
performances of the Nutcracker Ballet. Our group ushered,
worked the concessions booth, and helped with fundraising.
Many thanks to Rosie and Dan Bodien, Patricia and Sarah
Klein, Brian Bianco, Bob Vernon, Pat Coram, and Marjorie
Bianco for their participation.
Another early Christmas project involved collecting
toiletries (shampoos, soaps, toothbrushes, and toothpaste),
both new and used warm clothing (sweaters, scarves, gloves,
and hats) for the Union Gospel Mission in Everett, WA.
Our first community project of 2013 is a food collection for
Kirkland’s Hopelink Food Bank.
Our deepest sympathy is extended to Herbert Hnilica,
whose wife Mary, passed away after many wonderful years
together.
We send our belated birthday wishes to Victor Bilek, who
recently celebrated his 94 th birthday. Victor currently resides
in Dayton, OH but was an active participant in both the
Tacoma and Aberdeen lodges before they merged with ours.
Rosie Bodien was congratulated for her article on Art
Crystalware, which was highlighted in the Czechoslovakian
Collectors Association Fall Newsletter publication. This
article included pictures of antique perfume bottles and
provided a historic overview of Josef Schmidt’s glass cutting
and glass production shops in Czechoslovakia during the mid
1800s to the mid 1900s. Kudos to Rosie for her continuous
research of our Czech and Slovak heritage!
Our next meetings are at Claim Jumper Restaurant in
Tukwila, WA on February 23. and at Budapest Bistro in
Lynnwood, WA on March 23.
Wisconsin
Zapadni Jednota No. 20, Whitelaw, WI
Joyce Cisler, Correspondent
(l-r) Joe Suchomel and
Steve Stransky cutting
and sorting greeting
card fronts.
Taking toys to All
Saints Parish in
Denmark for Toys for
Tots.
Milwaukee No. 48, Milwaukee, WI
Jarka Axtell, Secretary
The December 11 meeting was called to order at 1 p.m.
by President Fran Marlenga at Meyer’s Family Restaurant.
We welcomed guests Carla Zevnik Seufzer, husband Kevin,
and Candace Hewitt.
FRATERNAL FOCUS
Carla, from Global View Capital Advisors, invited
members to watch a webinar on the Fiscal Cliff.
Members collected canned goods for the needy. Our
Christmas party followed.
Ashland, No. 126, Ashland, WI
Fran Snippen, Correspondent
We were happy to welcome Director Brenda Osterman
to our November meeting. Lynn Grande brought several
prospective members. They came to help brainstorm ideas
on how to get the lodge more active, and explore ways to
improve the usage of the building. We would also like input
from members as to the best time to schedule our monthly
meetings to have the best attendance. We are tentatively
looking forward to having a St. Patrick’s fun day at the hall
in March.
Correspondent/
Secretary Fran Snippen
and President Clara
Sveda show the Level
II Award they received
last year.
We need to say
a special “Thank
you” to Zula Oujiri’s family for sharing the memorial donation
to the WI/Upper MI Scholarship fund. Fran Snippen
presented a check to the Scholarship committee at the State
Convention in Mishicot in October, and shared the story of
how this came to be.
At our December meeting, we reviewed the projects we
have completed and reviewed our contributions to other
charitable organizations. In addition to the donations we are
making to the Toys for Tots program and Celebrations Inc.,
we voted to donate money to Northland College to be used
where it is most needed.
Fran Snippen presents
Christa, New Day
Shelter staff member,
Boyds Bears for the
Adopt-a-Family
Operation Rudolph
program.
JoAnn Parks,
wfla WI/Upper-
MI state president, was able to give us a box of Boyd Bears
for us to use to enhance our charitable endeavors. As a
start, we donated a pillow of bears to the Ashland New Day
Shelter. Fran Snippen brought 35 Fire Safety color books and
wfla pencils to the kindergarten, first, and second graders
at the Our Lady of the Lake Catholic School, as well as a
number of Campbell’s soup labels, milk tops, and Box Tops
for Education, to assist them in getting needed supplies and
accessories for the classrooms. New greeting cards were given
to the residents at the Bay Towers Senior Citizen complex
for their use.
For now, our officers will stay the same with Lynn Grande
added as a new three year trustee.
January 2013 31

FRATERNAL FOCUS
Bratri Novych Hradu No. 141, Cadott, WI
Cade Sikora, Correspondent
Guest speakers at this month’s meeting were Randy
Derbick and Bud Felix. They introduced themselves and
spoke about wfla products. Also in attendance was Lada
Suskova, a former exchange student from Slovakia.
Several members and friends worked at the UWEC Folk
Fair in November to raise money for the scholarship.
Tyrel Sikora getting
ready to show people
where the Czech
Republic and Slovakia
are on the map.
Cade Sikora talking
about the BHAT events
at the WI Eau Claire
Folk Fair.
Check out our
website at www.
wiuplodges.com.
Also, online is the
Bohemian Hall
Amateur Theatre
(BHAT). You can find them by searching “The Bohemian
Hall Amateur Theatre” on Facebook. “Like” our page for
pictures, videos, and updates on the BHAT!
Our next meeting and Christmas party is at Alberta Mays
on January 17 at 6 p.m. with social hour starting at 5:30 p.m.
Be sure to check out the 2013 Calendar of Events and
meeting times and date.
Verni Bratri No. 142, Two Rivers, WI
Ruth Sleger, Correspondent
A potluck was held before the December 10 meeting.
Members brought mittens and hats, which were given to
three local schools and the Domestic Violence Center.
Lorraine Krizizke with baby hats given
to two hospitals.
A donation was given to a
needy family for Christmas
dinner.
Members donated money for
pencils and erasers for school.
Some of the mittens
given to schools.
We talked about having a picnic in July.
The same officers were elected for the next year as follows:
President Don Sleger, Vice President Lorraine Krizizke, and
Secretary/Treasurer/Correspondent Ruth Sleger.
Prizes are given at all meetings and bingo is played after
the meeting.
Our next meetings are at 1 p.m. on February 11 and March
11 at the Fire Station.
Adams No. 193, Adams, WI
Cleo Hendricksen, Correspondent
On December 2, we met at the Lake Aire Supper Club for
brunch to celebrate the holiday season with Agent LuAnn
attending.
A wonderful meal was enjoyed by all with lots of socializing
to start the joyous season.
Ratolest Wisconsin No. 196, Black River Falls, WI
Barb McNulty, Correspondent
My name is Barb McNulty, and I will be taking over the
correspondence for No. 196 for the upcoming year. If you
have upcoming events that you would like posted, please
contact me at barbmcnulty2012@yahoo.com.
Members Mary and
Mark Maurer with
Valerie and Jillian
Maurer at 2012 Project
Christmas Food night.
Member Lucas McNulty
with volunteer at 2012
Project Christmas gift
night.
Nadeje Slovanu No. 236, Phillips, WI
Therese Trojak, Correspondent
The December 2 meeting was held at the Trojak home
hosted by Therese and Maureen Trojak.
Thank-you notes were read from the Ronald McDonald
House in Marshfield, Mr. and Mrs. Jason Ewer, Mr. And
Mrs. Steve Zellinger, and Laddie Zellinger.
December donations will be made to the Salvation Army
and St. Vincent de Paul.
President Carole Zellinger presented a letter from the
Milwaukee Sokol/Sokolice regarding the 2013 American
Sokol Slet being held in Milwaukee.
Laddie Zellinger explained the Veterans Day displays he
and Carole set up at St. Therese of Lisieux Catholic Parish
in Phillips. They also set up a display for the Presbyterians as
well at St. John Lutheran Church for the annual American
Legion Post #122 banquet, and at the Phillips Middle School.
32 January 2013

We will be 100-years old in 2014, and a list of ideas and
suggestions were discussed for celebrating.
Members went over their yearly/monthly donation list with
a few changes.
Our bike giveaway will take place July 13, 2013 during
the Antique and Tractor Expo held at the Price County Fair
Grounds.
Election of officers for the ensuing year took place and
present officers will retain their positions.
Members set up their 2013 meeting schedule.
Kewaunee No. 365, Kewaunee, WI
Carolyn Kinstetter, Correspondent
Members met on December 11 at the Water Front for lunch
before our meeting.
Our Christmas party was December 8 at Moxies in Casco.
Gifts were exchanged and we all donated to the Kewaunee
Food Pantry. Six poinsettias were given as prizes. A brisk
game of bingo was also played.
Bike winner at the Halloween party
was Savannah Jandrin.
Aaron and Aiden
Schanilec sitting on
Santa’s lap.
Santa gave out bags to the
little ones. The three smallest
didn’t care for Dear Santa. We
had a good turnout.
A moment of silence for
75-year member, Ruth Schmitt, was held.
We received a thank-you note for the memorial from Ruth’s
family and from Lorraine Cotter for her 75-year pin.
David and Donna Opicka decorated a tree for Holy Trinity
School Walk of Lights. They also did gift wrapping at Bay
Park Square in Green Bay.
Halloween group from
No. 365 and 391.
FRATERNAL FOCUS
Our lodge had
pu rc h a sed t wo
first-aid kits for
St. Joseph Church,
and one for St.
Lawrence Church.
Our Secretary,
Peter Janowski,
brought one along
to show all members. A good time was had by all.
City Point No. 408, City Point, WI
Joan Rapp, Correspondent
We had 27 members and 18 guests attend our Christmas
gathering. There was a great selection of food, and everyone
enjoyed the food and dessert. We called the meeting to order
and talked about the events for the New Year.
After the meeting was closed, Santa came for the children
and brought all a goody bag. They really enjoyed Santa.
Winners of our prizes were Lorie and Jack.
Donations of food and cash went to the Neillsville’s food
pantry.
We played bingo to end the day.
In Memoriam
Correction from November Issue
Edward G. Kasl
Lodge No. 74, Dorchester, NE
Brother Edward Kasl was born October 20, 1919 near
Dorchester to George Sr. and Emma (Rezabek) Kasl and died
September 21, 2012. Funeral services were held September
25, with interment at Wilber Czech Cemetery.
Edward married Rosella May 22, 1946. He was a 50-year
member.
Survivors include son, Ed (Jody) Kasl of Omaha; daughter,
Linda (Hugh) Clark of Lincoln; sister, Gladys Burda of
Wilber; brothers, Bob (Marva) Kasl, George Jr. (Shirley) Kasl,
and Richard (Shirley) Kasl all of Dorchester; 3 grandchildren
and 6 great-grandchildren.
Marilyn Clark, Correspondent
Pilsen No. 391, Luxemburg, WI
Judith Kraynik, Correspondent
We had a good turnout at our Halloween party on October
27, which was held in conjunction with Kewaunee No. 365, at
the Montpelier Community Center. Two bicycles were given
away. Bingo was played, and snacks and candy were given
out at the end of the party.
Vlasta “Lassie” Miller
Lodge No. 71, Utica, SD
Sister Vlasta Miller was born April
27, 1923 in Tyndall, SD to Alois and
Alice (Hladky) Ruman Sr and died
December 8, 2012 in Tyndall. Funeral
services were held December 14, with
Bike winner from the Halloween party
was Mark Huber from Pilsen No. 391.
interment at the Czech National
Cemetery.
Vlasta married Orville Henderson
A donation was made to the
Ronald McDonald House.
Our Christmas banquet
was held on November 16 at
Beverly Gardens; followed by
a social.
December 1945 and later married Gerald “Jerry” Miller
in August 1960. She was a 50-year member. She served as
secretary for 39 years.
Survivors include husband, Jerry Miller; son, Roger (Marci)
Henderson of Bloomington, MN; brothers, Lumir (Marcy)
Ruman of Tyndall and Alois Ruman, Jr of Tabor; and 2
grandchildren and 1 great-grandson.
January 2013 33

IN MEMORIAM
Emily Dlabaj,
Lodge No. 401, Dallas, TX
Sister Emily Dlabaj was born June 16,
1911 in Ennis, TX to John and Francis
(Jakubik) Kovar and died November
12, 2012. Funeral services were held
November 15, with interment at St.
Joseph Cemetery.
Emily married John Dlabaj November
29, 1932. She was a 50-year member.
Survivors include daughters, Geraldine
(Bill) Adams of Ennis, Elsie (Louis)
Maliska of Ennis, and Betty Heine
of Irving; sisters, Mildred Trlica of
Alma and Mary Adams of North
Richard Hills; 11 grandchildren; 18
great-grandchildren, and 13 great greatgrandchildren.
Clarence Trenda
Lodge No. 106, Lankin, ND
Brother Clarence Trenda was born
May 22, 1926 in Latona Township of
Walsh County to Adolph and Rosalie
(Sticha) Trenda and died November 22,
2012 in Park River, ND. Funeral services
were held December 3, with interment
at Kosobud Cemetery.
Clarence married Viola Jallo June 6,
1947 in Fordville, ND. He was a 75-year
member.
Survivors include son, Greg (Gail)
Trenda of Adams; 2 grandchildren and
1 great-grandson.
JoAnn Ryba, Secretary
Frank Kostka
Lodge No. 296, Omaha, NE
Brother Frank Kostka was born
November 22, 1917 in Plattsmouth, NE
to Louis and Stephania Kostka and died
September 27, 2012 in Papillion, NE.
Funeral services were held October 1,
with interment at Hillcrest Cemetery.
Frank married Marie October 29, 1939
in Omaha. He served with the Army
in WWII from 1942-1945, and was a
50-year member.
Survivors include son, Frank J. Kosta
of Gretna; brother, James Kostka of
Omaha; sister, Betty Fulton of Omaha;
and 2 grandchildren. Doris Ettlin, Secretary
Robert “Bob” Foreman
Lodge No. 296, Omaha, NE
Brother Robert Foreman was born
October 3, 1927 in Omaha, NE to
Dominic and Frances (Cielohal)
Foreman and died October 7, 2012
in Omaha. Funeral services were held
October 11, with interment at St. Mary
Magdalene Cemetery.
Robert married Rose Sevek January
19, 1952 in Omaha. He served in the
NE National Guard, and was a 50-year
member.
Survivors include wife, Rose Foreman;
daughter, Mary Ann Bergman both of
Omaha; sons, Steve (Marian) Foreman
of Bellevue and Joseph (Mary) Foreman
of Glenwood, IA; 2 grandchildren and 2
great-grandchildren. Doris Ettlin, Secretary
Jason A. Placek
Lodge No. 74, Dorchester, NE
Brother Jason Placek was born January
15, 1972 in Crete, NE to Roland
and Linda (Krajnik) Placek and died
November 24, 2012. Funeral services
were held November 29, with interment
at Wilber Czech Cemetery.
Jason married Jessica March 4, 1994.
Survivors include wife, Jessica;
daughters, Brissa Placek-Montague of
Lincoln, Brittany Placek, Zoe Placek,
and Makayla Placek all of Wilber; father,
Roland (Jean) Placek of DeWitt; mother,
Linda (Tom) Kastanek of Wilber;
brothers, Ryan (Barb Mock) Placek of
Omaha, Russ (Mary) Placek of Wilber,
Jeremy (Jackie) Placek of DeWitt, and
Keith (Kristine) Placek of Eagle; step
sister, Suzie (Ron) Hinzman of DeWitt;
and 1 granddaughter.
Marilyn Clark, Secretary
John Anton Slouka
Lodge No. 237, Winner, SD
Brother John Slouka was born
November 8, 1925 in Winner, SD to
John and Francis (Trpisovsky) Slouka
and died November 24, 2012. Funeral
services were held December 1, with
interment at Winner Cemetery.
John married Jeanne Maier April 22,
1951 in Colome, SD and later married
Helen Hofeldt February 14, 1991. He
was a 50-year member.
Survivors include daughters, Renee
(Donovan) Wright and Sharon (Bob)
Petersen; son, Gene Slouka; step daughters,
Yvon (Wade) Burtz, Joan (Brian)
Burnham, and Ruth (Glenn) Novotny.
Eva Watzel, Secretary
Dale Gordon Ulch
Lodge No. 146, Irving, IA
Brother Dale Ulch was born September
7, 1924 in Elberon, IA to Fred and Tillie
(Vochaska) Ulch and died November 14,
2012 in Cedar Rapids. Funeral services
were held November 19, with interment
at National Cemetery in Vining, IA.
Dale married Ruth Ann November 29,
1947 in Cedar Rapids. He served on the
Iowa Class Battleship, U.S.S. Missouri
from 1944-1946 as a Seaman First Class,
he was a 50-year member, and served as
treasurer for many years.
Survivors include son, Robert
(Johnnette) Ulch of Belle Plaine;
daughters, Beverly (Robert) Benzel
of Commerce City, CO and Doris
(Roger) Ollinger of Cedar Rapids;
brothers, Harold (Joyce) Ulch of Cedar
Hills, MO and John (Alice) Beaver of
Crossing, NE; 4 grandchildren and 3
great-grandchildren.
Frank J. Chovance Jr.
Lodge No. 225, Bannister, MI
Brother Frank Chovance Jr. was born
April 8, 1953 in Owosso, MI to Frank
and Irene (Cerny) Chovance Sr. and died
November 21, 2012 in Bath, MI. Funeral
services were held November 26, with
interment at Riverside Cemetery.
Frank married Patty Bancroft April 3,
1982. He was a 50-year member.
Survivors include wife, Patty
Chovance; daughter, Mary Chovance
both of Bath; son, Richard Bancroft of
Vista, CA; mother, Irene Chovance of
Bannister, MI; sisters, Sharon Pavlik
of Dewitt, Patricia (Terry) Larner of
Fowlerville; and Jean Chovance of
DeWitt.
Tom Bradley, Secretary
Ruth M. Schmitt
Lodge No. 365, Kewaunee, WI
Sister Ruth Schmitt was born February
10, 1921 in Kewaunee County to Joseph
and Helen (Alt) Hostak and died
November 29, 2012 in Manitowoc.
Funeral services were held December 3,
with interment at Calvary Cemetery.
Ruth married Aloysius Schmitt
November 6, 1940 in Casco, WI. She
was a 75-year member.
Survivors include daughters, JoAnne
Savage of Manitowoc, Ellen (Larry) Jones
of Colorado Springs, CO, Kathy (Mark)
Christopher of Oakland, FL, and Laurie
(Bob) Schumacher of Murphy, TX;
brother, Donald Hostak of Kewaunee; 15
grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren,
and 4 great great-grandchildren.
Carolyn Kinstetter, Correspondent
34 January 2013

IN MEMORIAM
CLAIMS FOR NOVEMBER 2012 Contemplating Cash:
Lodge Became Date of
Name Place of Death No. Member Death
Anderson, Mary Lou ....... Cedar Rapids, IA 262 2007 08/18/12
Belsky, Madeline E .......... Ashland, WI 126 1971 09/05/12
Benda, Henry F .............. Lincoln, NE 14 1931 09/19/12
Bradley, Wanda J ............ Newkirk, OK 121 1947 04/09/12
Cook Jr, Donald M ........ Schuyler, NE 28 1992 09/18/12
Dedynski, Anna .............. Kiel, WI 48 1932 09/22/12
Derenne, Janet R ............. Two Rivers, WI 142 1969 09/26/12
Domansky, Jarmila ......... Sun City West, AZ 330 1933 04/22/12
Duda, Alice R ................. Belle Plaine, IA 146 1939 09/08/12
Earnest, Edith E .............. Beech Bottom, WV 144 1999 09/17/12
Emerick, Joann ............... Rockford, IL 330 2000 09/16/12
Fabus, Rose ..................... Owosso, MI 225 1939 10/09/12
Franc, Grace A ................ Medford, WI 144 1966 05/27/12
Gericke, Merle C ............. Hiawatha, IA 262 1992 09/16/12
Guzman, Juan M ............ Houston, TX 289 2005 08/24/12
Halligan, Otis R ............. Boise, ID 39 1940 09/23/12
Janicek, George M .......... Wills Point, TX 402 1949 08/22/12
Jezek, Fredrick C ............. Midwest City, OK 46 1938 08/31/12
Jondle, Bernard E ............ Ft Dodge, IA 39 1939 09/06/12
Jones, Bruce F ................. Iowa City, IA 262 2004 10/13/12
Karas, Cecilia C .............. North Branch, MN 346 1945 08/20/12
Kovac, Jean S .................. Choteau, MT 280 1955 04/08/12
Krubsack, Rosalie E ........ Sheboygan, WI 108 2003 09/06/12
Kulas, Dorothy Jane ........ Scottsbluff, NE 112 1934 08/11/12
Mcgrath, Viola E ............. Cedar Rapids, IA 423 1987 04/30/12
Meixner, Jerome W ......... Owatonna, MN 127 1938 09/16/12
Meyer, Mary J ................. Lincoln, NE 426 1972 03/18/11
Nemec, Zdenka .............. Berwyn, IL 330 1940 09/12/12
Novacek, Adolph J .......... Red Oak, IA 296 1934 04/07/12
Pabian, Phyllis M ............ Lincoln, NE 9 1957 09/04/12
Pohanka, Larry J ............. Park River, ND 106 1947 09/27/12
Pokorny, Roy L ............... Alma, WI 196 1938 09/17/12
Quarello, Helen M .......... Berwyn, IL 330 1935 08/17/12
Rose, Eleanor C .............. Marinette, WI 73 1978 10/05/12
Salzbrenner, Wilbur K ..... Hiawatha, IA 262 1999 10/04/12
Sedlacek, Elsie ................. Crete, NE 68 1938 08/24/12
Snodgrass Jr, Ralph R ...... Philippi, WV 160 1995 09/13/12
Totushek, Daniel L ......... Hutchinson, MN 34 1932 09/28/12
Tyser, Joseph ................... Wilber, NE 54 1939 09/25/12
Valenta, Helen M ............ Horseshoe Bend, AR 262 1938 08/26/12
Walla, Richard E ............. Lincoln, NE 9 1943 08/21/12
Whiting, Josephine ......... Lansing, MI 242 1931 08/07/12
Wiles, Geraldine ............. Wausau, WI 144 1930 10/15/12
Wurm, Frances G ............ Lincoln, NE 426 1990 10/02/12
Zalabsky, Sylvia A ........... Wisconsin Rapids, WI 144 1986 09/21/12
Zamrzla, La Verne T ....... Blaine, MN 196 1988 06/28/12
Little-known facts about
your money
Though most of us think about
money mostly when we don’t have
enough of it, its history and development
can be fascinating. Here’s a quick list of
some surprising facts about US cash.
• The Biggest Bill. The highest US
denomination was the $100,000 bill,
bearing the likeness of Woodrow
Wilson and issued in limited numers
in 1934 for Federal Reserve Bank
transactions. The largest bill in
public circulation was the $10,000
bill, bearing the face of Salmon P.
Chase.
• The Smallest Bill. Paper money was
first introduced in the US during
the Civil War to combat a shortage
of coins. Bills were printed and
distributed in denominations of 20
cents, 25 cents, and 5 cents.
• Groovy Coins. A dime has 118
grooves along its edge; a quarter has
119. Ridges original were added to
make counterfeiting difficult; today
they mainly serve the purpose of
helping people with impaired vision
to identify coins by touch.
• Change for a Dollar. There are said
to be 293 different combinations of
coins capable of making change for
one dollar.
• The Weight of Wealth. One million
dollars in one-dollar bills would
weigh about 2,040 pounds; in
100-dollar bills, that cool million
would weigh in at 20.4 pounds.
• Old vs. New Money. A dollar bill
typically lasts about 18 months in
circulation before being “retired.”
Five-dollar bills endured for about
two years. Fifty-and hundred-dollar
bills hang on for nine years.
January 2013 35

Financial Independence
at Retirement
How Many People Are Financially Independent During Retirement?
Most people want to be financially independent during their retirement years. Government
statistics, however, tell a different story.
VSA 2F1.03
ed. 09-12
Page 1 of 1
According to the Social Security Administration, of people age 65 and older:
40.3% have incomes
under $20,000
Only 13.1% have incomes in
excess of $75,000
Source: Social Security Administration, Office of Policy, Income of the Population 55 or older, 2008; released April 2010
Which group will you be in?
29.3% have incomes from
$20,000 to $40,000
17.3% have incomes from
$40,000 to $75,000
The secret to financial independence at retirement is to commit to a plan today,
while you're working and earning an income, a portion of which can be saved for your
future financial security!
VSA, LP The information, general principles and conclusions presented in this report are subject to local,
state and federal laws and regulations, court cases and any revisions of same. While every care has been
taken in the preparation of this report, neither VSA, L.P. nor The National Underwriter Company is engaged
in providing legal, accounting, financial or other professional services. This report should not be used as a
substitute for the professional advice of an attorney, accountant, or other qualified professional.